《That Day When I Got Married to My Boss at the Blind Date》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    Josie Warren¡¯s mother arranged a blind date for her in a high-ss tea house in Wavery. However,


    after waiting for half an hour, the other party had yet to show up. A sulky look shed through her


    delicate face.


    Around ten minutester, a man in a gray suit approached her slowly.


    ¡°Hi, is this Ms. Warren?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I am.¡± Josie gazed at the stout man in front of her and was disappointed. Is he the so-called


    ¡®handsome¡¯ man my mom described?


    ¡°I¡¯m Jack Lowry.¡± The man pulled the chair out and sat down across from her. After sizing Josie up, he


    put on a wide grin as he was satisfied with Josie.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard of your situation. I don¡¯t have high requirements for my wife. After we get married, you can


    focus on being a housewife. I¡¯ll be responsible for all living costs. I have two children. Please take good


    care of them. Besides, my parents¡­¡±


    ¡°Please stop for a second, Mr. Lowry.¡± Josie interrupted him and inhaled deeply. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t think


    we¡¯re suitable for each other.¡±


    Jack¡¯s expression changed at once when he heard that.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I¡¯m a business owner. You should be grateful to be able to marry me¡­¡± Jack babbled


    away.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Lowry. I¡¯ve made myself clear ¨C we¡¯re not suitable for each other.¡±


    Jack seemed to be as old as Josie¡¯s father!


    ¡°You¡¯ll regret this!¡± After saying that, Jack stopped bickering with Josie and walked away directly.


    Sitting on the chair, Josie rubbed her temple. I shouldn¡¯t have believed my mom.


    Since she had applied for a half-day leave, she didn¡¯t leave immediately. Instead, she stayed in her


    seat to¡­ watch a show.


    There was a blind date going on at the next table too.


    Unlike Jack, the man seated on the chair wore a ck suit. His handsome face was wless, and he


    emanated an elegant aura from the inside out.


    The woman sitting across from him stared at him in infatuation.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, let¡¯s hold our wedding ceremony in Irnd. What do you think? We can invite a lot of


    guests¡­¡±


    With his eyes downcast, the man blurted coldly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m not satisfied with you. You may leave


    now.¡±


    The woman¡¯s smile stiffened.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, this is our first encounter, so we don¡¯t have to rush into marriage. You can spend some


    time getting to know me. I¡¯m a very nice person¡­¡±


    Dexter Russell lifted his eyes and uttered insouciantly, ¡°I don¡¯t fancy a woman whose face is full of


    fillers.¡±


    Josie almost spat the tea out when she heard that. What a brilliant excuse!


    After the women stomped away in anger, Josie took up her handbag as the show was over. Just as she


    was about to sneak out of the teahouse, a maic voice came forth.


    ¡°Josie Warren.¡±


    With her body stiffened, Josie turned around and greeted the man with a professional smile.


    ¡°Hi, Mr. Warren.¡±


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    Dexter looked at her and asked, ¡°Are you happy with the show?¡±


    ¡°Not¡­¡± Realizing that she was giving herself away, Josie quickly changed her answer. ¡°I¡¯m not


    watching any show.¡±


    ¡°Sit down.¡± Dexter ordered.


    Josie had no choice but to sit down across from him reluctantly. She lifted her eyes and carefully


    nced at the man who had extraordinary elegance.


    Dexter was the president of Russell Group, the biggest conglomerate in Wavery. Despite being at the


    age of twenty-six, his worth had exceeded ten billion.


    On the other hand, Josie was an ordinary white-cor in Wavery. She worked as a designer at Russell


    Group.


    There were thousands of employees in Russell Group. Under a normal situation, Dexter would not


    have a chance to meet her.


    However, when Dexter visited the departments after he took over the corporation three years ago, he


    walked up to Josie among all the other designers and asked for her name.


    Josie answered in a stutter.


    Although Josie had an ordinary identity, her appearance was extraordinary and stood out among the


    other designers who hadmon looks. Even within the entire Russell Group, Josie¡¯s beauty was


    outstanding. At that time, many in the design department thought Dexter had a thing for her, but Josie


    thought it was impossible.


    True enough, in thest three years, despite being in the samepany, she had never crossed paths


    with the great president. In fact, she rarely saw him.


    Josie caught sight of Dexter out of the corner of her eyes, but she didn¡¯t dare to walk up to greet him.


    She thought Dexter had forgotten about her because she was an ordinary employee, so she sat at the


    side and watched the show light-heartedly, but little did she expect that¡­


    ¡°Mr. Russell, if there¡¯s nothing else¡­¡±


    Josie wanted to break the silence and leave, but as soon as she spoke up, Dexter stared at her with his


    deep-set eyes and asked, ¡°You¡¯re looking for a partner to get married with?¡±

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    Josie was dumbfounded. She wasn¡¯t the only one watching a show just now, but Dexter was watching


    hers too.


    After a while, she nodded stiffly and reflected upon herself for eavesdropping on her boss. Suddenly,


    Dexter¡¯s deep voice emerged. ¡°Josie, what about marrying me?¡±


    Josie was stunned the moment she heard that. She lifted her eyes and stared at the man in front of her


    in shock. ¡°Mr. Russell, w-what did you say?¡±


    Josie thought she was hearing things.


    ¡°I said, marry me.¡± Dexter repeated himself impatiently. His handsome face looked very serious, and he


    didn¡¯t seem to be joking.


    After a long time, Josie finally regained her senses.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, why me?¡±


    By right, even if he is not happy with the woman just now, he could have married many other better


    women given his identity. Could it be that he has been having a crush on me for a long time while this


    blind date is just a set-up to encounter me? Indeed, only a top-tier hunter will appear as prey.


    Obviously, Josie overestimated herself.


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    Dexter looked outside the window and exined to her coldly, ¡°My grandfather is very sick. The doctor


    said he¡¯s left with only half a year to live. His greatest wish now is to see me get married. I bluffed him


    and told him that I already have a girlfriend and that we¡¯re preparing to get married.¡±


    As Josie listened attentively to the exnation, the same doubt surfaced in her mind. Why did he


    choose me?


    Perceiving Josie¡¯s confusion, Dexter took up the teacup and took a sip. ¡°You¡¯re an employee in Russell


    Group, which will make it easier for him to buy into it.¡±


    Josie understood immediately.


    Dexter proposed a fake rtionship and a fake marriage to fulfill his grandfather¡¯s wish.


    Dexter was a perfect man, but Josie knew they were people from two parallel universes. Josie didn¡¯t


    want to be dragged into trouble, so she was racking her head to think of a way to turn the president


    down courteously without putting her job at stake.


    Dexter said, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of your father¡¯s medical fees if you marry me.¡±


    Josie clenched her fists. Three years ago, her father ran into a car ident and had been in a


    vegetative state ever since then. She had been living frugally these years in order to pay the medical


    bills.


    But how did Dexter know about this? Josie couldn¡¯t bother to mull over the question because the offer


    was highly tempting.


    ¡°I can hire the best medical team for your father.¡±


    Josie wavered. Her eyes glistened as she changed her mind. I just have to marry into a wealthy family.


    Nothing can go wrong.


    ¡°Deal, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Without wasting more time, Dexter took his coat and stood up.


    ¡°We¡¯re getting our marriage registered at the registry office now.¡±


    ¡°Now?¡± Josie was shocked, but when she met Dexter¡¯s frigid eyes, she nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Thereafter, Dexter sent Josie back to her ce which was situated in an old neighborhood on the


    outskirts of the city. There was no one in the house. Josie took her identity document and left swiftly.


    Everything happened in haste.


    After walking out of the Home Affairs Bureau, Josie felt it was a dream when she looked at the


    marriage certificate in her hand. Then, she gazed at the suit-d, tall man beside her.


    She was married to her boss!


    Josie stood there for a long time and wondered if she should ask for a token of appreciation from


    Dexter.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    Dexter had no intention of wasting more time with Josie. He stared at her nonchntly with his almond-


    shaped eyes and said, ¡°My vi is in Mason Garden. I¡¯ll send the address and password to youter.


    You may move in tonight.¡±


    ¡°¡­Okay.¡±


    They had to put up a good act. Besides, she had wanted to move out of her ce, so she didn¡¯t mind


    at all.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bring you to meet Grandpa tomorrow.¡± Even though he was unwilling to ept that his grandfather


    could only live for half a year more, he said, ¡°We¡¯ll divorce half a yearter. During this period, you just


    need to coax him and make him happy. Don¡¯t think about anything else.¡±


    Josie perceived the meaning of his cold words ¡ª she shouldn¡¯t hope to remain as ¡®Mrs. Russell¡¯ for


    long.


    ¡°I understand. About my father¡­¡±


    Dexter checked his watch and said, ¡°I¡¯ll send someone to make the necessary arrangements


    immediately.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Thank you, Mr. Russell.¡±


    With that, he got into the ck Rolls-Royce and left.


    I can¡¯t believe this guy just ditched me after registering our marriage. What a heartless capitalist.


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    Josie pouted. She had only two quarters left after paying the fees for marriage registration. So, she


    decided to take the public bus.


    Upon arriving home, Josie could hear Jenny Turner, her mother¡¯s voice, before entering the house


    because the soundproof system was terrible.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Justin. Mr. Lowry is pleased with your sister. No matter what, I¡¯ll think of a way to make


    your sister marry him. By that time, we¡¯ll have money to settle the betrothal gift for Nicole and your


    house after you get married.¡±


    How brilliant it is to sell the daughter so that the son can get married.


    When Josie entered the house, both Jenny and Justin looked at her.


    Jenny said, ¡°Jack is very happy with you. I know you¡¯re displeased with him, but he¡¯s a decent man.


    Despite being slightly advanced in age, he will treat you well. Moreover, you don¡¯t have to bear a child


    after marrying him. You¡­¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes speechlessly. What¡¯s so honorable about bing a stepmother?


    She interrupted Jenny and blurted, ¡°Say as you please, but I¡¯ll not marry him.¡±


    Jenny hit the table and scowled, ¡°Josie Warren, you have to marry him! I¡¯m your mother, so I have a


    say in your marriage!¡±


    Josie took out the marriage certificate from her handbag and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m already married.


    Bigamy is a crime.¡±


    Jenny dashed forward and gasped, ¡°You¡¯re already married?! To whom?¡±


    Before Jenny could snatch the marriage certificate, Josie kept it back into her bag and threw her


    identity document on the table.


    She naturally wouldn¡¯t tell Jenny that she was married to Russell Group¡¯s president, so she hummed


    insouciantly, ¡°He works as a waiter in a restaurant. Didn¡¯t you want me to get married as soon as


    possible and get out of this house? Your wish hase true.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ You¡­ Josie Warren, you¡¯re driving me crazy!¡± Jenny snarled while covering her chest with her


    hand.


    Josie ignored her and went to pack her stuff in her room.


    A few minutester, Jenny regained herposure and went to Josie¡¯s room.


    ¡°Josie, I don¡¯t care who you¡¯re married to. Justin and Nicole are getting married soon, so you have to


    contribute something as an elder sister!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have money.¡±


    Jenny grasped Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°Then divorce the man immediately and marry Jack! We raised you all


    these years. As a sister, you can¡¯t brush your brother aside!¡±


    Coldness shed through Josie¡¯s eyes as she shoved away Jenny¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Dad was the one raising me all these years. Ever since he ran into a car ident, I¡¯ve worked hard to


    earn my tuition fees at university. When did you contribute to raising me?¡±


    Josie red at Justin, who was leaning against the door, looking at them. ¡°Moreover, I¡¯m not your


    biological daughter. I have no obligation to help this younger brother who has no blood rtion with


    me!¡±


    At the age of twelve, Josie had a car ident and lost all her memories.


    Paul Warren, who was working in the hospital then, adopted her. Over the years, Josie had not


    developed a good rtionship with Jenny and Justin, unlike with Paul¡­

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    Josie did not have many belongings. After packing her stuff, she ignored Jenny¡¯s curses and left in a


    cab with her luggage.


    Around 7 p.m., she arrived at Mason Garden, but she was lost because Dexter did not send her the


    exact location and password as promised. Josie reckoned it slipped his mind.


    She didn¡¯t know Dexter¡¯s phone number, so she could only wait outside the neighborhood.


    It was an August evening¨C the weather was still hot even after nightfall. Frustrated, Josie had the urge


    to find Dexter in Russell Group. Nheless, she was well aware that she couldn¡¯t meet him casually.


    After waiting for an hour, a ck Rolls-Royce appeared at the neighborhood gate.


    Josie¡¯s legs turned numb after an hour of crouching, so she couldn¡¯t stand up and could only wave her


    hand and yell, ¡°Mr. Russell, Mr. Russell¡­¡±


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    Dexter stopped the car when he heard themotion.


    He was startled when he saw the woman crouching on the ground.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    Josie was hot under the cor, but she didn¡¯t dare to re up in front of Dexter. Wearing a hypocritical


    smile, she supported herself against the wall and stood up.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me the exact address and the password. Where else could I go?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was busy with a meeting this afternoon and forgot about it.¡± Dexter exined and asked


    her to get into the car.


    ¡°Are you ming me just now?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t dare toin about Dexter, so she could only keep her shirt on and got into the car with


    her luggage. Two minutester, the car stopped in front of a bungalow.


    She carried her luggage and followed Dexter into the vi. On the way in, thetter told her the


    password to the door.


    Upon entering the living room, Josie nced around the surroundings. The minimalistic interior


    featured cool colors, yet it portrayed a royal atmosphere.


    ¡°You¡¯ll stay in the room on the left on the second floor. On the right is my bedroom and study room.


    You¡¯re not allowed to enter my rooms without my permission. And don¡¯t touch the disys.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Josie nodded ¡®obediently¡¯.


    Although there were many rules to abide by here, she rather stayed with the troublesome Dexter than


    with Jenny and Justin.


    Now that she didn¡¯t have to worry about Paul¡¯s medical fees, she should be able to save enough


    money for the downpayment on a small apartment in Wavery.


    Thinking that she was one step closer to a bright future, Josie went upstairs gleefully with her luggage.


    Just as she finished unpacking her belongings, someone knocked on the door.


    Josie went to open the door to see Dexter had already changed into his home clothes. He looked at her


    indifferently and passed a document to her.


    ¡°These are my hobbies and preferences. Memorize them tonight. Don¡¯t give yourself away in front of


    grandpa tomorrow.¡±


    Josie nodded and took over the document whileining inwardly. It¡¯s not that easy, after all, to


    stay in a splendid bungalow.


    ¡°What about my preferences? Do I have to tell you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not necessary.¡± Dexter answered coldly and left.


    The truth was Dexter had already investigated everything about her.


    After closing the door, Josie browsed through the document that Dexter had prepared. Every detail was


    written in it, including the food that he liked and disliked.


    What? He even included the size of his underwear?


    After reading through the document, Josie went to take a shower. Before she went to bed, she sent a


    text message to her director to ask for a day off.


    She nned to visit her father tomorrow after meeting Dexter¡¯s grandfather in the morning. So, she


    applied for leave for the whole day. Just as she expected, the mean director blew up immediately.


    ¡®Ms. Warren, how dare you apply for leave again tomorrow after bunking off this afternoon? I¡¯ll not


    approve your leave application. If you don¡¯t show up tomorrow, you¡¯ll lose the full attendance bonus!¡¯


    Josie was distressed because, in Russell Group, the full attendance bonus was as high as one


    thousand.


    She was as tight as a drum, but she had to visit Dexter¡¯s grandfather tomorrow.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    The next day, Josie woke up early in the morning.


    She had only a few cheap clothes, which seemed radically out of ce in the huge, refined dressing


    room.


    Josie changed into a maxi dress she boughtst year and put on simple makeup.


    When she went downstairs, Dexter was already sitting on the couch waiting. Then, the two left the vi


    without any interaction.


    Josie stared at Dexter and mumbled carefully, ¡°I lost my full-attendance bonus because I took the day


    off to visit your grandfather.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a thousand.¡±


    To a businessman, one thousand was nothing, but to Josie, that was enough to cover her monthly


    living expenses. While Josie was sulking, Dexter¡¯s voice came forth.


    ¡°Make grandpa happy today, and I¡¯llpensate the bonus to you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up at once.


    Soon, the car stopped at a shopping mall, but not a hospital. Josie asked in confusion, ¡°Aren¡¯t we going


    to visit your grandfather?¡±


    Dexter cast a nce at her dress and made a harshment. ¡°If grandpa sees your outfit, he¡¯ll


    probably think that ourpany is going bankrupt soon. Otherwise, why would my wife¡¯s outfit be this


    old?¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless. Is this dress old? It¡¯s a counterfeit of a dress that was in vogue in the


    fashion week this year!


    Josie did not dare to refute him, so she followed Dexter to a high-end branded shop. Dexter walked


    around in the shop, casually picked a few dresses, and threw them to Josie.


    ¡°Try them on.¡±


    Josie took over the dresses like a robot and walked into the fitting room obediently.


    She looked at the price tag ¨C the cheapest one was more than ten thousand, equivalent to her monthly


    sry. It was her first time wearing such delicate dresses, so she was cautious.


    After trying most of the clothes, the ¡®boss¡¯ on the couch didn¡¯t seem satisfied.


    Exhausted, Josie could only ce her hope on thest maxi dress that was faint green in color.


    The staff in the shop praised with a smile, ¡°Miss, your boyfriend has good taste. You look graceful in


    this dress.¡±


    Dexter was sitting on the couch, scrolling through his phone. When he heard thement, he lifted his


    eyes to nce at Josie. She was looking at herself in the mirror. From where Dexter was sitting, he


    could see her slender waist.


    Josie turned around and squeezed a smile on her fair face. ¡°Is this okay?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Then, Dexter stood up and picked a few pairs of shoes for her. ¡°We¡¯ll take the dress that she¡¯s wearing


    and all that she tried just now.¡±


    Dumbfounded, the staff quickly replied, ¡°Sure, sure. Miss, your boyfriend is so sweet.¡±


    The usually thick-skinned Josie blushed and tugged at Dexter¡¯s sleeve shyly. ¡°We don¡¯t have to buy all


    of them. Just the one that I¡¯m wearing is enough.¡±


    Dexter frowned and cast a cold nce at her. ¡°Do you n to wear the same dress every time we visit


    grandpa?¡±


    Josie was tongue-tied.


    After paying the bill, Dexter brought Josie to a jewelry shop.


    Before Josie could realize his intention, Dexter chose a pair of couple rings and ced one in Josie¡¯s


    hand while putting the other on his finger.


    There was no interaction between the two throughout the whole process.


    While Dexter was paying, Josie waited at the entrance and could vaguely hear the staff discussing


    among themselves. ¡°Oh my gosh, they¡¯re such a perfect match!¡±


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    ¡°Yeah, but I bet her boyfriend doesn¡¯t love her. He chose the ring with minimal effort and didn¡¯t even


    bother to put it on for his girlfriend.¡±


    Josie smirked. Indeed, your guess is right.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    After leaving the mall, they went to the hospital.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, Dexter got out of the car and took out all kinds of supplements from the


    trunk.


    Looking at Josie, who was standing at the side with a nk look, he uttered impatiently, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Only then did Josie regain herposure and follow Dexter into the hospital.


    ¡°Are you nervous?¡± Dexter noticed Josie¡¯s expression was not as rxed as before, but Josie denied it


    stubbornly. ¡°Nonsense. Not at all.¡±


    Of course, Josie was lying to herself too.


    Although she had been in a rtionship before, she had not met the partner¡¯s family. Moreover, the


    person that she was going to meet was the prominent old Mr. Russell. It was her first time participating


    in such a big asion.


    While they were in the lift, Josie couldn¡¯t help asking, ¡°Mr. Russell, is your grandfather fierce?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Dexter hummed in response and added, ¡°Call me Dex.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I told my grandpa I¡¯ve been with my girlfriend for two years.¡±


    Josie understood his meaning. A couple who had been dating for two years couldn¡¯t possibly address


    each other by theirst name.


    ¡°Sure, Dex.¡± Josie called out the name naturally.


    Suddenly, she had a mischievous idea. ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re four years older than me. People say that


    an age gap of more than three years is considered wide. Since there is a wide age gap between us,


    what do you think if I call you a cuter nickname?¡±


    Josie could sense Dexter¡¯s eyes turn cold the moment she said that.


    ¡°Forget about it.¡± He uttered.


    With that, the lift arrived at their floor. Dexter strode out instantly, leaving Josie in a fluster. It¡¯s just a


    nickname. Why is he so angry? Ugh, it¡¯s indeed hard to stay close to a superior man. How


    troublesome!


    Upon arriving at the ward¡¯s door, Dexter stopped and waited for Josie to hold her hand naturally.


    Josie¡¯s body stiffened while Dexter pushed the door open and walked in.


    Henry Russell was ying chess with Franklin on the balcony. When Henry saw their arrival, he stood


    up at once.


    ¡°Hey, Dexter.¡±


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    Then, his gaze fell on Josie. The night before, Dexter told him they had registered their marriage.


    Henry said with a loving smile, ¡°You must be Jo.¡±


    ¡°Hi, Grandpa. Nice to meet you. I¡¯m Josie Warren.¡±


    ¡°Come and take a seat.¡± Henry held her hand and made her sit on the couch.


    Dexter ced the supplement on the table and said to Henry, ¡°Jo bought these for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Jo.¡± Henry looked delighted. ¡°I heard you and Dexter have been dating for two years. This


    fellow hid it and didn¡¯t bring you to meet me.¡±


    Before this, Dexter had taught Josie how to respond to Henry. She nced at the man beside him and


    answered with a smile, ¡°Grandpa, Dex wanted me to meet you for a long time, but I turned it down


    because, as you know, I¡¯m just an ordinary designer in Russell Group¡­¡±


    Henry held Josie¡¯s hand and uttered seriously, ¡°We don¡¯t care about one¡¯s family background, so don¡¯t


    feel pressured. As long as you guys love each other, we¡¯ll not oppose your rtionship.¡±


    Josie looked at Dexter, who was sitting next to her. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s what Dex told me too.¡±


    Dexter was startled for a moment when he saw Josie¡¯s sweet smile. He reached out his hand and


    caressed her hair affectionately.


    Henry¡¯s grin widened when he saw that.


    Indeed, Henry was an amiable person. Soon, Josie was not as nervous as before. After some small


    talk, she yed chess with Henry.


    Halfway through the game, Josie¡¯s phone rang.


    ¡°Please excuse me, Grandpa. I¡¯m going to answer a call first. Dex will stay here with you.¡±


    ¡°Sure, sure.¡±


    After Josie walked away, Dexter sat down while Henry gazed at him solemnly.


    ¡°Be honest with me, Dexter. Did you date Josie and marry her because of Lily?¡±


    The truth was Josie¡¯s appearance resembled Lily¡¯s.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    Dexter¡¯s hand, which was holding a chess piece, stopped midair for a second before he put it down


    and said, ¡°Yes, Grandpa. That was indeed the case in the beginning. But I genuinely love her as who


    she is now.¡±


    Henry smiled in satisfaction. ¡°I¡¯m d you guys are truly in love with each other. Now that I have seen


    you marry the woman you love, I have no regrets in this life. Waste no more time so that I can have a


    great-grandchild soon.¡±


    Henry was in his eighties, so the functions of his organs started deteriorating.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes fluttered as he hummed in response.


    The call that Josie received was from Jenny. The things she said were the same as yesterday. Josie


    brushed her off and went back to the ward.


    When it was lunchtime, Henry insisted on going for a walk, so he brought Dexter and Josie to a


    restaurant outside the hospital.


    After ordering a few of Henry¡¯s favorite dishes, Dexter passed the menu to Josie and said in his deep


    voice with a tinge of affection. ¡°Pick a few dishes that you want.¡±


    Josie took over the menu and pretended to order a few dishes casually.


    Soon, the dishes were served. Dexter put on a perfect act and helped Josie with the dishes from time


    to time.


    Josie ¡®returned the favor¡¯ by putting some fried eggnts she ordered into Dexter¡¯s te. ¡°Dex, try out


    your favorite dish.¡±


    Dexter stared at Josie with warning shing through his eyes.


    Henry, who was sitting across from them, was surprised. ¡°Huh? Dexter has hated eggnts since he


    was young.¡±


    Josie smiled, ¡°Grandpa, you might not know about it yet ¨C eggnts are my favorite vegetable, and


    Dex started liking it too after we got together.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Henry beamed from ear to ear. ¡°People say that couples will change their lifestyle after staying


    together for a long time. Back then, your grandmother and I were like this too. She loved desserts, and


    I didn¡¯t, but I gradually had a sweet tooth too after being together with her.¡±


    Dexter suppressed his anger and swallowed the eggnts on his te.


    Josie was guilty, but when she saw Dexter¡¯s aggrieved look, she gloated.


    After lunch, they left the restaurant and went back to the hospital. ¡°Alright, I know you guys are busy.


    Get going. Jo, doe and revisit me when you¡¯re free.¡± Henry uttered.


    Josie looked toward Dexter, who then said, ¡°Alright, Grandpa. We¡¯ll leave first, then. I¡¯ll bring Jo to


    revisit you next time.¡±


    Josie said goodbye to Henry with a smile. With that, Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and left side by side. In


    fact, he was grasping Josie¡¯s hand so tight that thetter was moaning inwardly.


    ¡°Ouch! Ouch! Mr. Russell, Grandpa is still watching us from behind!¡±


    ¡°Go ahead andin to him then.¡± Dexter blurted coldly.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Josie was rendered speechless. How would I dare to?


    Josie got into the passenger seat. Knowing that Henry was still watching them, Dexter helped Josie to


    fasten the seatbelt, but Josie was terrified by the gloomy aura he emanated.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell. I didn¡¯t mean it. I mixed up the food that you like and the ones that you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Did you really not do it on purpose?¡± Dexter stared at Josie.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Josie answered firmly.


    In fact, she did it on purpose because Dexter made her wait two hours yesterday.


    Dexter naturally knew her intention. When he started the car engine, he uttered sulkily, ¡°Do you know


    that your action would have caused Grandpa to suspect that we¡¯re in a sham marriage?¡±

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Josie pouted. ¡°But I managed to patch it up.¡±


    Perceiving Dexter¡¯s gloomy gaze, Josie quickly sat up straight and mumbled, ¡°I¡¯ll be more careful in the


    future.¡±


    Dexter warned coldly, ¡°You¡¯ll be finished if it happens again.¡±


    Josie nodded incessantly.


    ¡°Please drop me at the next junction. I¡¯ll go back to the hospital to visit my father.¡±


    Paul and Henry stayed in the same hospital.


    Dexter said nothing and pulled off the road. Before getting out of the car, Josie gazed at Dexter


    fervently. ¡°I did a good job, didn¡¯t I? Grandpa seemed to be happy. Mr. Russell, my full-attendance


    bonus¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to get it.¡±


    Josie freaked out. I was wrong. I shouldn¡¯t have provoked him. Oh well, then¡­ Josie crossed her arms


    and said fearlessly, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll meet Grandpa again when I¡¯m back in the hospitalter.¡±


    Just as Josie was about to unfasten the seat belt, Dexter gripped her wrist immediately. ¡°Are you


    threatening me?¡±


    Josie answered with a wide grin, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°Very well. Let¡¯s go back together to visit your father.¡±


    Josie was stunned. No way he wants to visit my father. Given his fierce look, he will most likely take off


    my father¡¯s oxygen mask!


    Josie wussed out and muttered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell. I¡¯ll not interrupt grandpa. I¡¯ll forgo the bonus.¡±


    Dexter snorted while Josie unfastened the seatbelt and got out of the car sullenly.


    ¡­


    Last night, Josie was informed that Dexter had asked his subordinate to transfer Paul into the VIP


    ward.


    Josie sat down in front of the bed and was sorrowful, looking at her father, who had been in aa for


    three years.


    ¡°Dad, quicklye around, would you? I miss you so much, and I miss talking to you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes turned red-rimmed.


    Truth be told, she couldn¡¯t remember if she was twelve when she met Paul.


    She was admitted to the same hospital. Her mind was nk when she regained consciousness, but the


    first person she met was Paul.


    Paul was a surgeon. He adopted Josie after she lost all her memories. He treated her and fed her


    medicine. When the police failed to find her family, he brought her home.


    Time flew ¡ªit had been more than ten years since then.


    ¡°Hey, Jo.¡±


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    The ward door opened. Matthew Sander, Paul¡¯s doctor-in-charge, walked in. With her back facing


    Matthew, Josie wiped away her tears before she stood up to greet him.


    ¡°Hey, Matt.¡±


    Josie and Matthew were close friends. In the past few years, Matthew had been helping her to pay the


    medical fees first when she was short of money.


    Dressed in a white coat, Matthew wore a smile on his handsome face and asked, ¡°Yesterday, I heard


    from the director that a first-rate medical team from overseas was sent to treat your father. Jo, how did


    you¡­¡±


    Josie knew what Matthew wanted to ask ¨C how she got the money.


    ¡°Matt, I¡¯m married.¡±


    Matthew was shocked. ¡°Married?¡±


    In thest three years, Matthew helped Josie generously, and Josie deemed him an elder brother. So,


    she hid nothing from him and told him about the sham marriage with Dexter.


    Matthew thought the incident was dramatic. ¡°B-But this is too sudden.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ve been wanting to get married for a long time so that I can move out of the house and stay


    away from my mom. Dexter can help my dad too, so it¡¯s not a bad deal.¡± Josie had reconciled with the


    fact.


    Staring at Josie¡¯s side profile, Matthew was dismayed by the sudden news.


    All the while, he thought Josie wouldn¡¯t consider getting married before Paul woke up. Little did he


    know that she had been wanting to get married.


    If so, he¡­

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    After talking with Matthew, Josie stayed in the hospital to apany her father until five in the evening.


    Then, she bought some groceries in the supermarket and went back to Mason Garden by public bus.


    Dexter was not home after Josie had dinner, so she washed up and went to bed.


    In the middle of the night, she woke up due to thirst. She went downstairs in a daze to drink a ss of


    water and returned to a room to continue sleeping.


    At 2 a.m., Dexter returned to the vi after his schedule ended. He went back to his bedroom and


    switched on the light. As he was about to walk to the bathroom, his steps halted. How on earth did this


    woman appear on my bed?


    Dressed in cotton sleepwear, Josie was sleeping in an unruly position with her fair, long legs exposed


    in the air.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened. He went up and grasped Josie¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Josie Warren!¡±


    ¡°Mm¡­ What are you doing?!¡± Josie rubbed her eyes and shoved Dexter¡¯s hand away. She red at


    him and mumbled, ¡°Why did youe to my room in the middle of the night?¡±


    Dexter refuted with a cold face, ¡°Look clearly ¨C whose room is this?¡±


    Only then did Josie bepletely awake.


    She nced around the room. It was Dexter¡¯s room ¨C she had walked into the wrong room!


    Upon realizing the fact, Josie¡¯s anger was dismissed at once. She got off the bed and apologized


    carefully, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I was too sleepy and identally walked into the wrong room.¡±


    ¡°identally walked into the wrong room?¡± Dexter examined her sharply. Obviously, he didn¡¯t buy her


    reason.


    ¡°Was it an ident, or do you have other intentions?¡±


    Josie exined earnestly, ¡°It was an ident! I¡­¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t bother hearing her exnation and interrupted her coldly. ¡°Get out!¡±


    Josie snorted and quickly slipped away.


    Dexter was frustrated to have a woman in his vi, yet he had no choice but to live with her given the


    current situation, because Henry might send someone to check in on them at any time.


    After taking a shower, Dextery on the bed. Josie¡¯s scent lingered on his pillow, which made him frown


    as he subconsciously recalled the scene when he spotted Josie just now.


    Exasperated, he got off the bed and changed the bedsheets. With that, he finally fell asleep.


    ¡­


    Unfortunately, Josie bumped into Dexter the following day when she was about to head out.


    The two left the vi together, but one got into his Rolls-Royce while the other walked half a mile to the


    bus station.


    Josie wasn¡¯t hoping that Dexter would give her a ride to Russell Group. After all, he had warned her not


    to reveal their marriage to anyone in thepany.


    Not long after Josie settled down in her seat in the office, her director summoned her to his office.


    Josie was an interior designer. The design department director was a man in his thirties named Patrick


    Davidson.


    He always picked on Josie because Josie rejected his pursuit when he first joined the department.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I can¡¯t believe you dared to bunk off work and apply for leave two days in a row. Do you


    think you¡¯re the boss now?! Have you finished the design for Hoi?¡±


    Hoi was a new real estate project developed by Russell Group. Every designer was required to


    submit a piece of work; the best would be chosen for the project¡¯s interior design.


    Josie was upied the past few days, so she didn¡¯t have time to work on the design.


    She pouted. ¡°Mr. Davidson, the task was only assigned two days ago. There¡¯s still one week until the


    deadline.¡±


    Moreover, Josie reckoned her design would not be chosen even if shepleted the task. Although


    she was talented, Patrick had been suppressing her for the past few years, so she had no chance to


    exhibit her talents.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°How dare you talk back?! Mind you, and if you continue your behavior, you¡¯ll be fired sooner orter!


    Now, go and print this document for me!¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes speechlessly. He¡¯s asking me to do odd jobs again! I¡¯m now the president¡¯s wife.


    Someday, I¡¯ll ask Mr. Russell to fire you!


    Nheless, Josie knew it was impossible. So, she could only follow Patrick¡¯s instructions and went to


    print the documents.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    After a busy morning, Josie stretched and looked at the time to realize it was time for lunch. Her


    colleagues had gone to the canteen.


    ¡°Josie, let¡¯s have lunch together.¡± Alice, Josie¡¯s colleague, called out to her.


    ¡°Coming.¡± Josie hummed in response and switched off herptop.


    Right when they turned a corner, an unexpected guest showed up, which caused the smile on Josie¡¯s


    face to disappear at once.


    ¡°Josie.¡±


    Jenny¡¯s voice was indifferent so that one couldn¡¯t tell her emotions, but Josie knew she must be up to


    no good toe and find her in the office at this hour.


    Josie asked Alice to go ahead first while she and Jenny went to the balcony.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Josie asked directly.


    Jenny blurted mercilessly, ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb, Josie. Regarding your brother¡¯s wedding I mentionedst


    time, you have to fork out the money as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you ¨C I have no money. There¡¯s nothing I can do to help.¡±


    ¡°Josie, don¡¯t force me to cross the line. If you wish to continue working here peacefully, you better give


    me the money. Otherwise, you shall bear the consequence.¡± Jenny threatened coldly.


    Josie clenched her fists as her face darkened. Jenny ignored her and continued, ¡°Since you¡¯ve gotten


    married, the inws should more or less give some betrothal gifts. I¡¯m not asking for much ¨C ten


    thousand. As long as you give it to me, I¡¯ll help you settle things with Jack. Otherwise, all I want is the


    money; I reckon Jack is more than willing to give that to me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Josie retorted. ¡°No matter what you do, my reply is the same ¨C I have no money.¡±


    With that, Josie turned and left, leaving Jenny, who stood stiffened at the spot. Her chest was heaving.


    She never thought that Josie would still turn her down after she went all out.


    Very well, Josie. Don¡¯t me me, then.


    ¡°You¡¯ll regret this, Josie.¡± Jenny scoffed with a sly look.


    Little did they know that a figure walked out slowly from the corner right after they left. The woman wore


    a smirk on her face that was filled with surprise.


    So, Josie is actually married.


    Josie lost her appetite after the episode with Jenny, so she had a quick lunch and went back to the


    office.


    However, when she entered the office, she noticed many were secretly gazing at her while discussing


    among themselves.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe she¡¯s someone like this.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s already married, so it must be true. This shows that she has been dating someone before this


    but has been pretending that she was single.¡±


    ¡°Oh gracious, no wonder people say you can¡¯t judge the book by its cover.¡±


    Josie was confused, but she didn¡¯t bother with it and sat down in her seat.


    ¡°Hey Josie, I heard you¡¯re married. Is that true?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart jolted when she heard a colleague¡¯s question, and she was exasperated remembering


    what Dexter told her in the morning.


    Just as she was about to deny it, she noticed some other colleagues were eavesdropping on their


    conversation from afar. These colleagues were all Josie¡¯s admirers who always fawned over her.


    As long as she did not reveal her husband was Dexter, Josie thought it was not a big deal to admit that


    she was married because it could fend off these unwanted pursuers.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s true.¡± The answer caused a sensation. The men, who were listening attentively, were


    disheartened immediately.


    ¡°Oh my goodness, Josie, when did that happen? Why didn¡¯t you mention it?¡± A few colleagues quickly


    surrounded her.


    ¡°Yeah man, how can you hide it from us for such a long time? You didn¡¯t invite us to the wedding


    ceremony either.¡±


    Josie was abashed. The truth was, even she had yet to recover her senses after the sh marriage.


    ¡°Uhmm¡­ It just slipped my mind.¡± Josie knew she would be in trouble if Dexter became aware of it.


    ¡°Tell us more about your husband. What is so special about him that a gorgeous woman like you is


    willing to forgo all other options for his sake?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You guys must have dated for some time already. We¡¯ve not even seen him once.¡±


    Resigned, Josie invented some excuses to fob her colleagues off.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    She heaved a sigh of relief when her colleagues went back to their seats.


    Soon after she started working on her tasks, her phone started vibrating non-stop as messages flooded


    in.


    She looked down at the screen ¨C the messages were from her pursuers, demanding her to return the


    gifts that they had given her.


    ¡°D*mn, these guys are so realistic!¡± Alice couldn¡¯t helpmenting.


    ¡°All of them werepeting to win your favor when they courted you back then. Who knew they would


    turn on a sixpence.¡±


    On the other hand, Josie was not unhappy with how things turned out.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not meant to receive those gifts in the first ce, so it¡¯s best to return them.¡±


    With that, she directly opened a chat group with those colleagues.


    ¡®I¡¯ll courier the stuff to your home address. Please pay the courier fee upon collection.¡¯


    No way I¡¯ll fork out my own money to pay the courier fee!

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    After the incident, Josie¡¯s poprity in the design department was no longer what it used to be. People


    would gossip whenever she was around. Those that were extreme would deliberately bump into her


    just to insult her.


    She put up with all of it.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± She wouldfort herself. It was nothingpared to her sry.


    ¡­


    At night, Dexter reached homete after attending an unnned meeting.


    He shrugged off his coat and changed into his indoor slippers. As he was about to head upstairs, he


    noticed a slim figure curled up on the sofa.


    The woman seemed to be restless. Her eyebrows were furrowed as she mumbled in her sleep.


    He went up to her and listened.


    ¡°Get out of my way, you bunch of stupid admirers¡­ Stay away¡­ Let me earn my money¡­¡±


    He furrowed his forehead speechlessly.


    How badly off is she that she¡¯s even dreaming about earning money?


    At that moment, theptop screen before Josie flickered. Dexter noticed an interior design n opened


    on the screen.


    Although it was just a rough draft, Josie¡¯s ideas and thoughts that went into the design were apparent.


    Every stroke of the drawing showed off her skill and talent in designing.


    A rare look of admiration shed across Dexter¡¯s face. But he was bewildered.


    Why was she under the radar for all these years if she had such talent?


    ¡°Nghh¡­¡±


    She turned over in her sleep. A teardrop fell from her eye and sunk into the sofa cover.


    He stood next to her and watched as she muttered again after some time.


    ¡°Dad¡­¡±


    His eyes flickered. The cold glint in his eyes turned into a scoff.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re back¡­¡± A maid¡¯s voice rang across the room. Dexter made a silent gesture, and


    the maid understood immediately.


    ¡°Bring her a nket.¡±


    He turned around and went up the stairs.


    The next day.


    Josie woke from her sleep. She was confused as the nket draped on her shoulders slipped off.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, are you awake?¡± The maid¡¯s voice rang in Josie¡¯s ears as she exercised her stiff


    shoulders and said, ¡°Thank you for the nket.¡±


    Before the maid could say another word, Josie hurried upstairs to freshen up. The maid could only


    swallow her words.


    Josie rushed to thepany and managed to clock in just in time.


    Relieved, she headed to the elevator for employees when a strong force knocked her from behind.


    She lost her bnce and staggered. She would have be thepany¡¯s joke if she didn¡¯t hold on


    to the nearest thing just in time.


    When she regained her footing, she looked up with a frown to see one of her past admirers.


    As the elevator door closed, the man¡¯s look of disdain was seared into her heart.


    She was speechless.


    It seems true that hares may pull dead lions by the beard.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Get in.¡±


    She paused at the cold, deep voice.


    She felt a sense of foreboding when she looked over to see a deep-set pair of cold eyes.


    ¡°Thanks for the offer, Mr. Russell. I¡¯ll just wait for the next elevator. After all¡­ Ah!¡±


    A hand grabbed her arm and pulled her into the elevator.


    Josie stumbled and was about to trip.


    She raised her arms instinctively to protect herself. The pain she was expecting didn¡¯t arrive as she fell


    into a firm embrace.


    She raised her head, and her breath caught in her throat as the man¡¯s attractive face was inches away


    from hers.


    Her hand was on his chest.


    Dexter furrowed his forehead.


    ¡°Move.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Yes, sir.¡±


    She removed her hand and quickly pressed her floor button as the elevator door closed. She shrunk


    into a corner, hoping they would soon reach her floor.


    It was awkward as they were the only people in the elevator.


    Josie took a deep breath and tried to minimize the sound of her breathing.


    She began thinking.


    What does one do if a couple in name only meets in the office? Especially when the husband is her


    boss?


    What else to do but ignore them? Treat them as air!


    The floor numbers on disy ticked up. Josie turned her head to the side to avoid his eyes. But she


    didn¡¯t realize that the elevator walls were reflective. He could see her expression even though she was


    standing behind him.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, focus on work when you¡¯re at thepany. Work hard, and your sry will be


    increased.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± She looked at him puzzled..


    ¡°It seems you¡¯re in need of money with the way you were dreaming about earning money.¡±


    Embarrassed, she opened her mouth to speak.


    ¡®Ding!¡¯


    As the elevator door opened, she noticed that she waste. She gave up on exining and quickly


    exited.


    He turned around and found no one behind him.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    Josie went to her department and found Patrick conducting a meeting, which was unprecedented. He


    yelled her name angrily as she wasn¡¯t there yet. She could hear him even though there were two walls


    between them.


    ¡°This department¡¯s staff is gettingzier, especially Josie. It¡¯s already time, but she¡¯s not here!¡±


    Josie shrugged and went to her desk. She waste anyway. If she joined the meeting now, Patrick


    would just chew her out in front of everyone. It would be an irredeemable situation.


    She sat at her table and switched on herputer, nning on continuing her unfinished interior


    design ns.


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯rete to today¡¯s meeting. You¡¯re doomed!¡±


    A colleague patted Josie¡¯s shoulder. She averted her eyes from theputer screen and only realized


    that the meeting had ended.


    She smiled and exined, ¡°I woke upte today. What was the agenda for today¡¯s meeting? It can¡¯t be


    about the packaging design again, right?¡±


    Three days ago, Patrick gave his subordinates the task of designing the packaging for a coborating


    foodpany. He had been on the case in meetings as there was no satisfactory design even until this


    day.


    ¡°You got it right. He gave a few of us a chewing out over the packaging. Of course, including you, who


    waste for the meeting. You better watch out.¡±


    The colleague gave Josie a look before returning to their work.


    Josie pressed her lips together.


    She gathered herpleted design ns and hurried to the manager¡¯s office.


    ¡®Knock knock!¡¯


    ¡°Come in!¡±


    She pushed the door open and handed the design papers to Patrick. ¡°Mr. Davidson, I¡¯vepleted the


    design. Please have a look.¡±


    He tossed the papers to a side without giving them a single nce. He swept his eyes over her


    presumptuously. Josie was surprised he wasn¡¯tshing out at her but was oddly calm.


    She gave it a thought and spoke up. ¡°Mr. Davidson, I overslept and didn¡¯t get to attend today¡¯s meeting.


    Please don¡¯t get angry.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    A person of character must know when to stand their ground and when to back down.


    She didn¡¯t care if she got in trouble with Patrick, but she couldn¡¯t have money troubles. Besides, she


    just did something bold.


    Patrick scoffed. ¡°Since you know you¡¯re wrong, go work on the packaging design for the food


    company.¡±


    Speechless, she knew that the matter wasn¡¯t resolved yet.


    She smiled reluctantly. ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, go ahead!¡±


    He answered inly, but Josie felt the pair of eyes stay on her until she stepped out of the office.


    She felt ufortable.


    It felt like he was about to swallow her alive.


    She turned her head back subconsciously and was relieved to see Patrick engrossed in his work.


    Perhaps she was overthinking.


    ¡­


    ¡°Tsk, some people are just so thick skin. She can still work here without concern even when she¡¯s


    called a two-faced witch everywhere she goes!¡±


    ¡°Why, first she got married, now she¡¯s seducing Mr. Russell. Does she really think she can do whatever


    she wants in thepany just because she has a pretty face?¡±


    On the way back to her desk, harshments reached Josie¡¯s ears. It was apparent that they meant


    to let her hear them.


    She gave those female colleagues a cold stare. Alice couldn¡¯t take it and spoke up for Josie. ¡°What?


    Are you all jealous? Try to make yourself prettier; otherwise, whatever you say is meaningless.¡±


    The woman scoffed. ¡°In the end, you just depend on that face of yours. Is that anything to be proud of?¡±


    Alice was about to retort back when Josie tugged her. ¡°Forget it, Alice. If a dog bites you, do you bite it


    back?¡±


    ¡°What did you say!¡± One of the female colleagues rushed up to Josie with a pointed finger. ¡°You seduce


    men everywhere you go but still act self-righteous. You¡¯re just a bi***!¡±


    ¡®p!¡¯


    The clear sound of a p rang in the room. Everyone¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    Unbelieving, the woman held her cheek and screeched, ¡°How dare you p me!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because you deserve it. Watch your mouth. It won¡¯t be just a p the next time,¡± Josie replied


    as she scanned the room.


    It was a warning for all who were wagging their tongues about her.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    Everyone was shocked to see that.


    It was rare to see Josie, usually soft-spoken, lose her temper.


    ¡°You¨C Josie, just you wait. I will make you pay.¡±


    With that, the female colleague left, and the crowd dispersed.


    Alice grabbed Josie¡¯s arms worriedly.


    ¡°Samantha Robson seems to have connections. Will we be in trouble?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t overthink it. She would usually steer clear of trouble unless it were necessary to intervene.


    This time around, Samantha had stepped over the line.


    ¡°It¡¯s she who offended us first. It¡¯s okay. Let¡¯s get back to work.¡±


    After calming Alice down, Josie went back to work. After that incident, everyone else stopped talking


    about Josie behind her back.


    Finally, Josie found peace of mind.


    When Josie finished her work, she stretched and looked at the time. It was almost time to get off work.


    ¡°I¡¯m going back now, Josie,¡± Alice said.


    Josie waved to Alice. ¡°See you tomorrow.¡±


    After Alice left, she shut down herptop and went to the ground floor. As soon as she exited the


    company building, she was surrounded by a group of men.


    The group leader was a tanned man with a scar on his face.


    ¡°Are you Josie Warren?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath to calm herself down.


    ¡°Who are you? What are you doing here?¡±


    He snorted. ¡°You bullied my girl, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    With that, he took a step forward. Josie¡¯s expression hardened, but there was no fear. ¡°Who¡¯s your


    girl?¡±


    ¡°Stop ying dumb with me. You know very well what you did. I¡¯m just here to give you a warning


    today. For your information, my fists aren¡¯t for nothing. If you dare to touch my girl again, that is.¡±


    With that, he clenched his fists and flexed his biceps.


    At the same time, Dexter came out of his office and overheard a conversation between a few


    colleagues. When he heard Josie¡¯s name, he paid attention to them.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe that b*tch dared to p me. Even my parents have never hit me. How dare she! I will


    make her pay.¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Sam. Didn¡¯t you ask your brother to block her?¡±


    ¡°Hmph! I told him not to go easy on her. He will teach her a lesson that she will never forget.¡± A ruthless


    look flitted across her eyes.


    The other female colleague jumped when she noticed Dexter.


    ¡°Hi, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter walked past them impassively. When he left, Samantha heaved a sigh.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t hear us, did he?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It doesn¡¯t matter, even if he did. Josie is a nobody. Do you think Mr. Russell would even


    notice her?¡±


    Samantha heaved a sigh of relief upon hearing that.


    However, Dexter frowned when he entered the elevator. As the number decreased, he felt uneasy.


    Where is this feelinging from? He thought, still frowning.


    Before he could figure it out, he had arrived at the ground floor. As soon as he walked out of the


    company building, he saw a few burly men blocking Josie.


    He immediately made a call as he walked toward them.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to teach you a good lesson,¡± the man with a scar on his face threatened.


    Just then, another voice rang behind him.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    ¡°Josie.¡±


    Josie was stunned to hear Dexter¡¯s voice. He walked to her and pulled her hand. ¡°It¡¯s already after


    working hours. Why haven¡¯t you gone home?¡±


    She wanted to escape his grip, but he increased his strength as he looked at the scarred-face man.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with you guys?¡±


    The man snorted coldly. Since Dexter was alone, he didn¡¯t treat him as a threat.


    ¡°What? Gonna be a hero? Let¡¯s see if you¡¯re up for it.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    With that, he attacked Dexter with a club.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. Just when the club was an inch away from his face, he grabbed it before


    throwing a punch at that man.


    The man grunted and groaned, clutching his cheeks.


    The rest of the group didn¡¯t catch what had just happened. They looked at the situation in stunned


    silence.


    The scarred-faced man pointed at Dexter. ¡°You yed dirty!¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Dexter crushed his hand. Everyone there could hear his bones crack.


    ¡°Now you know who you shouldn¡¯t cross.¡±


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    The man groaned in pain.


    ¡°Bro, I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll never do it again.¡±


    Dexter finally let go of him after hearing that.


    At that moment, a security guard from thepany rushed over.


    ¡°Call the police. Let them sit in jail for a few days.¡±


    ¡°No! Please let us go!¡±


    No matter what they said, Dexter¡¯s resolve remained the same. He looked at Josie and asked, ¡°Are you


    okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Then, she winked at him. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you could fight, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Afterplimenting him, she realized they were still holding hands and quickly let go.


    ¡°Thanks. Since it¡¯ste, I¡¯ll be heading home.¡± With that, she wanted to leave, but he grabbed her hand


    again.


    ¡°I think we are going in the same direction. I¡¯ll send you back.¡±


    Then, Josie was thrown into the car as though she were a pet. She wanted toin but quickly shut


    her mouth after seeing his expression.


    No one uttered another word on their way back until the car was parked in the garage.


    As Josie unbuckled her seatbelt, Dexter asked, ¡°What was that?¡±


    ¡°Hmph?¡±


    Then, she realized what he was referring to. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal.¡± She didn¡¯t want to borate on the


    rumors in thepany. ¡°Thanks for helping me out.¡±


    Dexter frowned. ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s nothing?¡±


    Josie quickly smiled. ¡°Yes. It¡¯s nothing at all.¡±


    ¡°Give me your phone.¡±


    Though confused, she handed her phone to him obediently.


    He punched in a series of numbers. Soon, his phone rang.


    ¡°This is my personal number. If you are in any trouble, you can call me directly.¡±


    Josie was stunned to see that. ¡°This¡­ isn¡¯t appropriate, is it?¡± she said softly.


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    She quickly took her phone back. ¡°Nothing. Thanks, Mr. Russell. Can I get out now?¡±


    After getting his approval, she quickly unbuckled her seatbelt and got out of the car. In no time, the


    sound of a car engine roared. Right after that, the car was gone from the garage.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    Just as Josie heaved a sigh of relief, she wondered, Where is he heading?


    Then, she quickly shook her head. It¡¯s none of my business. Legally, he¡¯s my husband, but that¡¯s just a


    title.


    ¡­


    Josie didn¡¯t want to bump into Dexter the following day since their working hours were the same.


    Hence, she woke up early and went to the office.


    However, she met Patrick Davidson, her manager.


    She smiled and greeted him. ¡°Good morning, Mr. Davidson.¡±


    He nodded and looked at her. ¡°I¡¯m having dinner with our business partners tonight. You¡¯re going to join


    us as well ¨C remember to dress up. We can¡¯t afford to let them down.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± she asked in surprise.


    ¡°Who else is here?¡± Patrick snapped impatiently. ¡°It¡¯s just a meal. You can submit your resignation letter


    right now if you don¡¯t want to go.¡±


    Josie hesitated. She didn¡¯t want to join such social events. But if I reject him¡­ She shot a look at


    Patrick.


    Forget it. It¡¯s just dinner.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll be there on time.¡±


    Patrick¡¯s stern expression eased. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll send the address to youter. Don¡¯t bete.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    With that, he went into his office.


    Josie sighed and turned on herptop. However, she saw a green screen ¨C a virus had attacked her


    laptop.


    She was on the verge of breaking down. My designs for the food packaging are in there! If the system


    is down, my designs are gone!


    ¡°How am I so unlucky? I didn¡¯t get to back up my files!¡± she muttered. Seeing it was unresponsive, she


    called the technical team to fix it.


    At that moment, Patrick¡¯s voice rang from his office.


    ¡°Josie, show me your designs now!¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡±


    Josie was flustered to hear that. It seems like God doesn¡¯t want me to have a good time.


    With an uneasy feeling in her stomach, she walked into the office.


    ¡°Mr. Davidson, myptop just broke down. The designs also¨C¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, a figure walked past her and ced some designs on the table.


    ¡°Mr. Davidson, these are my designs. I printed them out to show you. If you think it¡¯s eptable, you


    can use them.¡±


    It was Samantha.


    The designs she just handed in were precisely the same as Josie¡¯s.


    It was tant that she giarized them from Josie.


    Just as Josie wanted to speak up, Samantha turned and looked at her haughtily with her chin in the air.


    ¡°Josie, if you haven¡¯t finished your work, just tell us the truth. You don¡¯t have to fabricate such a lousy


    excuse. Aren¡¯t you just finding excuses for yourziness?¡±


    Josie clenched her fists tightly. ¡°I would like to ask ¨C why are your designs exactly the same as mine?¡±


    she demanded firmly.


    ¡°Exactly the same? Interesting. Are you using me of giarizing your work? Where¡¯s your proof?


    Without any evidence, you are ruining my reputation!¡±


    Anger rose within Josie, but she knew it was not the right time to unleash her fury.


    First of all, she had no evidence Samantha giarized her work. Apart from that, she lost all her


    designs. It was even harder to prove she was the original designer.


    This must be Samantha¡¯s doing. Back when I first joined, she kept giving me a hard time. But I didn¡¯t


    expect her to use such an hical tactic!


    Josie pursed her lips with determination zing in her eyes. ¡°You may be gloating now, but you will pay


    the price for your actions. I will definitely find evidence!¡±

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    ¡°Enough!¡± Patrick yelled at Josie. ¡°Just tell us if you haven¡¯t finished your work. There¡¯s no need to


    fabricate such excuses. Do you think you can do anything you want just because you have a little


    talent? The design department is already sick of your attitude ¨C do you know that? Write a ten-


    thousand-word report, or start cleaning the department as punishment!¡±


    Josie looked at him coldly. ¡°Mr. Davidson, those are my designs. I will prove it.¡±


    Patrick let out a cold snort and looked at the locked door.


    ¡°Prove it? So what if you prove that? If I say Samantha designed this, do you think the higher-ups


    would doubt it?¡±


    Josie clenched her fists tightly.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Mr. Davidson!¡±


    ¡°Josie, you have been here for a long time. Don¡¯t me me for being ruthless. It won¡¯t be good for


    everyone.¡±


    ¡°From your tone, you seem to know I¡¯m the original creator.¡±


    Patrick smiled. ¡°You saw for yourself; Samantha passed this to me. Why are you still here using


    her?¡±


    Samantha interjected, ¡°Josie, I understand you would like to be promoted, but you can¡¯t fake it. It¡¯s not


    a big deal that you ck off for a bit. Just take note of it next time.¡±


    Samantha and Patrick brushed Josie aside.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried this might reach Mr. Russell?¡±


    Samanthaughed.


    ¡°Josie, stop daydreaming. Why would Mr. Russell even agree to see you? Have a good look at yourself


    in the mirror, and stop ttering yourself. Also, don¡¯t ruin his reputation.¡± Her voice was thick with scorn.


    Josie snorted and left.


    Back in her seat, her chest heaved unevenly. At that moment, she wanted to barge into Dexter¡¯s office


    to tell him everything, but she was worried that he might not even care about such a small matter.


    On top of that, she didn¡¯t want to trouble him.


    Forget it. I¡¯ll solve my own problems. There¡¯s a minor defect in my designs. If Samantha uses it, there


    will be some problems.


    ¡­


    The technical team fixed herptop, but just as she expected, her designs were gone.


    She wasn¡¯t even annoyed by that. During the lunch break, she went to the surveince room.


    The room was located at the back of the first floor. As soon as she got out of the elevator, she met


    Dexter.


    How is it such a coincidence?


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Russell.¡± She nodded at him. His cold voice rang just when she walked past him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked after seeing the dejected look on her face.


    She forced a smile. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I lost something, so I¡¯m going to look at the surveince cameras.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t suspect anything. ¡°I see. What is it?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t want to tell him too many details. ¡°It¡¯s just an insignificant thing.¡±


    Would she go to such lengths to look for it if it¡¯s insignificant?


    ¡°Do you need my help?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Thanks.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s assistant was surprised to see their exchange.


    Since when did Mr. Russell care about others? She¡¯s just a designer here. This is a huge scoop!


    Nevertheless, he merely straightened his sses and pretended that he hadn¡¯t noticed anything.


    ¡°If you need my help, you are always weed to my office on the top floor,¡± Dexter offered.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    ¡°Thanks, but no thanks.¡±


    Seeing her adamant attitude, Dexter left with his assistant without any otherments.


    Josie sighed in relief and made her way to the surveince room.


    There, she found out that all the recordings from the morning had been deleted.


    I should have thought of that! she thought in despair. That¡¯s why Samantha and Mr. Davidson were so


    bold. Since they had already destroyed the evidence, they were confident I wouldn¡¯t find anything.


    ¡®Beep!¡¯


    Her phone rang. She checked her messages and saw that it was about the designs for the food


    packaging with Samantha¡¯s name on them.


    Josie tightened her fingers around her phone resentfully, but she could do nothing.


    ¡­


    After work, Josie received Patrick¡¯s timely message.


    Since she was going to the dinner, she hailed a cab to Victoria Restaurant in Wavery.


    ¡°Josie, why aren¡¯t you here yet?¡± Patrick asked sternly.


    Looking at the traffic outside, Josie quickly replied, ¡°I¡¯m almost there. The traffic is heavy.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You have fifteen more minutes. If you¡¯re not here by then, you have to bear the consequences.¡±


    With that, he hung up, leaving Josie thunderstruck.


    Since she was not that far from the restaurant, she opened the door and ran in its direction.


    Not long after that, she heard someone beeping the car horn behind her. A familiar Maybach stopped in


    front of her.


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡± she yelped in surprise. Why is he here?


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Her forehead was dripping with sweat. ¡°Where are you going? I can send you.¡±


    Josie wanted to reject him, but seeing she was runningte, she took his offer and got into his car.


    As soon as she told him the address, he started driving.


    When they arrived, Josie thanked him and ran into the restaurant. Dexter frowned at her and made a


    call.


    ¡°I¡¯m changing the venue. I¡¯ll send the address over shortly.¡±


    He hung up and found a parking spot. Then, he walked into the same restaurant.


    It was a western restaurant with a European renovation style. As the head chef was a famous chef


    from France, the restaurant garnered much interest among the upper ss.


    Patrick stopped her at the door of the private room.


    ¡°Why are you sote?¡±


    ¡°The traffic was terrible.¡±


    ¡°I have to make this clear to you, Josie ¨C this deal is crucial to us. It will benefit you if you can sign this


    deal.¡±


    Before Josie could digest his implied meaning, he shoved her into the room.


    ¡°Sorry for beingte.¡±


    Everyone in the room was Russell Group¡¯s business partner. They turned around and appraised her.


    ¡°You must be Josie. Mr. Davidson mentioned you just now,¡± Alec Windsfield said with a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Josie!¡± Oliver Hudson added.


    ¡°Patrick told us that you¡¯re a real beauty. Now that we¡¯ve met you, I must admit that he was not


    exaggerating.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you tter me too much, Mr. Hudson!¡±


    Josie was bright and elegant; one couldn¡¯t find any fault with her. However, Oliver handed her a ss


    of red wine.


    ¡°Since you¡¯rete, you have to start with drinking three sses of wine as punishment.¡±

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Josie didn¡¯t think they were waiting for her. However, her alcohol tolerance was very low. It would be


    troublesome if she got drunk.


    ¡°I¡¯m allergic to alcohol, so I can¡¯t drink. Why don¡¯t I rece it with tea?¡±


    As soon as she said that, the atmosphere changed immediately.


    ¡°Are you joking, Josie?¡±


    ¡°Why are you here if you can¡¯t drink? Are you just here to be a wet nket?¡±


    ¡°It seems you are not interested in working with us. You should tell us in advance! Why waste


    everyone¡¯s time?¡±


    Everyoneined, not allowing her to refuse them at all.


    Patrick¡¯s face darkened when he saw that.


    ¡°Josie, what are you doing here? It¡¯s an honor to drink with Mr. Windsfield and Mr. Hudson. Stop acting


    like a baby!¡±


    Everyone else in the room watched the drama unfolding in front of them.


    Josie hesitated before taking the wine ss. She gritted her teeth and gulped it down.


    ¡°Now we¡¯re talking! It seems like Josie knows her manners after all,¡± Oliver praised and poured another


    ss for her.


    However, Josie couldn¡¯t drink anymore.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Mr. Hudson, I really can¡¯t drink anymore. One ss is my limit.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! You¡¯re still so young! Since we are all here, we have to drink our hearts out.¡± Hepletely


    ignored her difort and poured her another ss.


    She felt nauseous, but no one noticed; they kept pouring wine into her ss.


    She had lost count of the number of sses of wine she drank. At that moment, she felt as though the


    entire world was spinning.


    Then, she burped and said, ¡°I can¡¯t drink anymore.¡±


    The few managers exchanged nces and smiled.


    ¡°Josie, since you have had too much to drink, we can book a room for you at the hotel upstairs.¡± With


    that, Patrick went to help her up.


    Josie quickly shoved him away. ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll call my husband to pick me up.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot that Josie is married,¡± Patrick sneered. ¡°It takes time for your husband to arrive. It¡¯s


    better if you rest upstairs first.¡±


    ¡°I-It¡¯s fine¡­¡± Josie mumbled as she looked for her phone. Patrick wanted to take it away from her, but


    she had already made a call.


    ¡°Give me your phone, Josie.¡±


    ¡°Hello?¡± A man¡¯s voice rang from the other end.


    Annoyed, Patrick quickly took it and hung up.


    Dexter frowned and called again.


    Josie¡¯s phone rang again. Patrick was quite annoyed with supporting her, but she took her phone again


    and picked it up.


    ¡°Hello, who¡¯s this?¡±


    Dexter looked at his screen and made sure that it was Josie. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m fine¡­ I just had too much to drink¡­¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, Patrick took her phone and hung up. This time around, he ced


    her phone in his pocket.


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯re drunk. There¡¯s no need to call anyone. Just head upstairs and have a good sleep.¡±


    This was not the first time Oliver and Alec had done this.


    ¡°Patrick, we will head upstairs first. Just¡­ send her to uster.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    When both of them left, Patrick lost all patience. He dragged Josie out of the room into the elevator.


    Josie felt dizzy. As soon as she walked out of the room, she felt nauseous.


    ¡°Ugh¡­¡± She threw up.


    Patrick frowned in disgust, but he continued dragging her into the elevator.


    The elevator doors reopened right after they shut, with Dexter standing in front of them.

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    ¡°M-M-Mr. Russell.¡±


    Patrick was dumbfounded at the sight of Dexter. He let go of Josie, making her fall to the ground.


    Dexter could guess what had gone on.


    ¡°Mr. Davidson, you¡¯re¨C¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s our colleague. She had too much to drink, so we nned to send her to a room upstairs to rest.¡±


    However, his exnation fell on deaf ears. Dexter ignored him and scooped Josie up, leaving Patrick


    stunned.


    ¡°Sir, you¡­¡±


    He was silenced by Dexter¡¯s cold stare. Then, he merely watched Dexter bring Josie away.


    Josie squirmed in Dexter¡¯s arms. ¡°Don¡¯t move,¡± he said with a frown.


    Sure enough, she became still.


    Amidst her grogginess, she tried to open her eyes but couldn¡¯t catch a good glimpse. Then, she slid


    into afortable position and fell asleep.


    Dexter ced her in his car. After seeing that she had fallen asleep, he locked the car before returning


    to Patrick, who was exining the situation to Oliver and Alec.


    He jolted when he saw Dexter approaching him sternly.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Mr. Davidson? Can¡¯t you handle such a simple matter? I think we will call off the deal.¡±


    ¡°N-No, it¡¯s not that¡­¡± Patrick stuttered.


    Dexter had reached him.


    As soon as Dexter stretched out his hand, Patrick gave his phone without resistance.


    Dexter had been in this industry for many years; he had seen many different tactics, and this one was


    not new to him.


    ¡°Have you been doing this to hit your sales target?¡±


    ¡°S-Sir, I-I¡­¡±


    A faint smile appeared on his cold face.


    ¡°I can exin¨C¡±


    ¡°Exin? Indeed, you should. If I take action, you won¡¯t be able to find another job in this city.¡±


    ¡°Please forgive me, Mr. Russell. It was Mr. Hudson¡¯s idea. He took a liking to Ms. Warren and asked


    me to set up this dinner. Apart from that, I didn¡¯t do anything, I swear¡­¡± Patrick¡¯s body started shaking


    out of fear.


    Dexter snorted coldly.


    ¡°Submit the resignation letter yourself. I don¡¯t want to see you at the office tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± Patrick wanted to borate, but Dexter cut him off.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone else to know about the incident today. If you dare to tell anyone¡­¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, Mr. Russell. I will never tell a soul about this. Please give me another chance.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    With that, Dexter ignored Patrick and walked away.


    Knowing there was nothing else he could do, Patrick sank to the ground in despair.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    When Dexter returned to his car, it reeked of alcohol as soon as he opened the door, making him frown


    involuntarily.


    ¡°I can¡¯t drink anymore¡­ No more¡­¡±


    Josie waved her hands in the air frantically.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t drink. Why make yourself suffer?¡± Dexter muttered.


    With that, he shoved her arms away and sat in the driver¡¯s seat.


    Throughout the entire journey, Josie didn¡¯t make things easy for him. She tossed and turned, groaning


    about going home.


    When they finally reached home, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    She¡¯s usually meek but so troublesome when drunk.


    After a moment of hesitation, he helped her out of the car. In the next second, she circled her arms


    around his neck, and her warm breathnded on his cheeks.


    ¡°Hottie, you look familiar.¡±


    With that, she giggled and buried her head in his chest. He wanted to push her away, but she clung to


    his clothes tightly.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me alone¡­¡±


    When Dexter heard that, he froze and felt sorry for her.


    He was not used to such feelings.


    ¡°Josie, if you are awake, get up and walk on your own. Stop hanging onto me.¡±


    However, she replied to him with heavy breathing.


    Having no other option, he held her in his arms and walked into the mansion.


    ¡°Wee back, Mr. Russell. What¡¯s wrong with Ms. Warren?¡± a maid asked concernedly.


    ¡°She had too much to drink. Don¡¯t worry about her.¡±


    With that, he brought her upstairs and threw her on the bed.


    Josie turned around, found afortable position on the pillow, and continued sleeping without caring


    how she looked.


    Dexter was stunned upon seeing that. Now that she was settled, he pulled a nket over her and left


    the room.


    In the middle of the night, Josie woke up because of thirst. She got up from bed slowly and went


    downstairs in the dark to pour herself a ss of water.


    When she returned, she went in the opposite direction and headed to the other bedroom.


    She opened the door and threw herself on the bed, waking Dexter up.


    He leaped up from the bed. When he saw who it was, he lost his temper.


    ¡°Josie, what are you doing?¡± he berated.


    Josie was shocked to hear his voice. She suddenly woke up from her sleep and screamed when she


    saw him.


    ¡°Aaah! Dexter, why are you in my room? Get out! Get out!¡±


    Dexter pulled a long face as he switched on the lights.


    ¡°Have a good look,¡± he said coldly.


    Josie looked around. Though she was sleepy, she knew she had gone to the wrong room.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I¡¯ll leave right now¡­¡± she said in embarrassment.


    She left the room as though she had lost the fight.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    Josie hadpletelye back to her senses when she returned to her room. Still, her head was


    throbbing painfully.


    She massaged her temples as she tried to recall what had happened. Mr. Davidson brought me to


    dinner, and I drank a lot.


    At that point, she forgot about her headache.


    Why am I here? How did Ie back?


    She lowered her head to look at her clothes. Thank God I¡¯m still wearing them. But how did Ie


    back here?


    She tried to remember, but nothing came to her. In the end, she gave up andy down in bed. Shortly


    after that, she fell asleep.


    The next day, someone knocked on her door.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I made something to help with hangovers. Here you go.¡±


    Josie waspletely sober. She quickly got up and opened the door.


    ¡°Good morning, Julie.¡±


    Julie smiled at her and passed a bowl of soup over. ¡°Here, eat it while it¡¯s warm.¡±


    A surge of warmth passed through her heart.


    ¡°Thanks a lot, Julie.¡±


    She took the bowl of soup and gulped it down. After finishing it, she asked, ¡°I can¡¯t remember much of


    last night¡¯s events because I was drunk. Do you know how I got back?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Julie smiled upon hearing that.


    ¡°Mr. Russell brought you back, of course.¡±


    Josie was stunned to hear that.


    ¡°What? He brought me back?¡±


    How is it possible? What is going on?


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I know I shouldn¡¯t be nosey, but alcohol is bad for our health. It¡¯s best if you control your


    drinking. Don¡¯t get drunk again.¡±


    Josie scratched her head and nodded.


    ¡°Thanks, Julie. I know.¡±


    Julie decided to be honest with Josie because she liked her a lot.


    After Julie left, Josie paced the room. She was curious aboutst night¡¯s events.


    Why did Dexter send me back? Did something happen?


    She still didn¡¯t have an answer when she arrived at the office.


    However, she noticed that the atmosphere was slightly off.


    ¡°Have you heard? Mr. Davidson resigned,¡± Alice whispered.


    Josie stopped her work and looked at her in confusion. ¡°What? He resigned?¡±


    Alice nodded.


    ¡°He came early this morning to submit his resignation. None of us know what has happened.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. Something is wrong.


    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s good that we can start over. I¡¯m sure our time here will be better now that he¡¯s gone,¡± Alice


    said hopefully.


    Josie sighed. ¡°Hopefully so.¡±


    As soon as she finished her sentence, she heard someone walking toward them in high heels.


    Then, Samantha showed up with a dark face. Something was off when she looked at Josie.


    Josie met her gaze boldly. In the past, Samantha would have already given her a hard time. However,


    she went straight to her table quietly this time.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Samantha? Why is Josie in the office today?¡± One of their colleagues asked in the


    pantry.


    Recalling her brother¡¯s words, Samantha frowned

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    ¡°Alright. Don¡¯t bring her up again.¡±


    The colleagues exchanged gazes and remained quiet. However, Samantha was even more sullen. She


    wanted her brother to take revenge for her, but he ignored her.


    Josie is such a thorn in the *ss. I¡¯m going to make her life so hard ¨C just she waits.


    Patrick¡¯s resignation changed the atmosphere of the design department; it wasn¡¯t as depressing as


    before.


    The manager from the human resources department walked over.


    ¡°Hi guys, I¡¯m here to announce a new manager.¡±


    Everyone looked at her.


    Samantha walked over with a smile.


    ¡°We have decided to make Samantha the interim manager toplete our current projects.¡±


    Samantha lifted her chin haughtily. ¡°Thanks for understanding, everyone. I will lead our department in a


    better direction.¡±


    Alice resented the new change.


    ¡°Why is she the new manager? She acts all high and mighty even after stealing Josie¡¯s designs. Isn¡¯t


    she worried about karma?¡±


    ¡°Alice, it doesn¡¯t do you any good to badmouth her. Be careful of crossing our new boss,¡± another


    colleague said.


    Alice lifted her head and looked at Josie, who was not far from her.


    Josie was looking at herptop solemnly.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Josie?¡±


    Ever since the virus attack, herptop had not been functioning well. It was a virus that couldn¡¯t be


    killed by a regr anti-virus program.


    ¡°Myptop is not working.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it fixed?¡±


    She shook her head. Obviously, the thief wouldn¡¯t want to leave her a workable option. Because of that,


    her job was affected.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. I will find someone to fix it after work. It should be fine.¡±


    With that, she shut it down. Suddenly, Samantha appeared and threw a bunch of documents on her


    desk.


    ¡°Josie, tidy these documents up today. I want them on my desk before the end of the day.¡±


    Samantha turned around and walked away without even giving her an opportunity to reply.


    Josie was speechless. Since Samantha was her boss, Josie had to take her orders.


    Samantha¡¯s sidekick was impressed to see that. ¡°Wow, Sam. You¡¯re the only one who can do that


    here.¡±


    Samantha beamed widely. ¡°Take note of how you address me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ms. Robson.¡±


    Samantha was ted. She still had no idea why she was promoted to manager; many other candidates


    were more qualified than her. She couldn¡¯t believe her luck.


    Nothing can stop me from being lucky now.


    ¡°Let¡¯s have dinner with the girls tonight.¡±


    ¡°Sure, Ms. Robson.¡±


    Josie dealt with the paperwork the entire morning. Finally, the height of the documents was decreased


    by a third. She stretched and looked at the time ¨C it was already lunch hour.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go for lunch, Alice.¡±


    Alice quickly shut down herptop and went to the office canteen with Josie.


    The atmosphere at the canteen was different from usual, but Josie was oblivious.


    After taking the food, she saw Dexter eating at a table just as she sat down.

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    Dexter was enjoying his lunch slowly, but he stood out among the crowd.


    ¡°Why is Mr. Russell here?¡± Alice asked, surprised.


    Josie pulled her arm. ¡°Let¡¯s sit there.¡±


    Not wanting to sit close to their boss, they went to another desk without hesitation.


    Josie wanted to disappear into thin air as soon as she recalled the events fromst night.


    Argh, forget it! She finished her meal as quickly as possible.


    Just as she put the dishes away, she met him.


    Speak of the devil.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Russell,¡± Josie and Alice said in unison.


    Dexter shot a nce at Josie and nodded.


    At that moment, the elevator arrived. Josie wanted to wait for the next one, but Alice pulled her in.


    As the three of them stood in the elevator, Josie felt oppressed.


    Please go faster, she prayed internally as the elevator ascended.


    Finally, when they reached their floor, Josie pulled Alice out almost immediately.


    Looking at her hasty figure, Dexter followed her.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Everyone in the design department was taken aback when they saw him.


    ¡°What brings you here, Mr. Russell?¡± Samantha quickly walked to him and asked amicably.


    He stopped walking and looked at her. When he saw her badge, he asked, ¡°Are you the new manager


    here?¡±


    It was out of Samantha¡¯s expectations that he knew her. Feeling important, she said, ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.


    I¡¯m Samantha Robson.¡±


    Dexter recognized her as the gossipy one the other day, not because she was the new manager.


    ¡°What a young manager. How impressive,¡± hemented sarcastically, but she thought he was


    praising her.


    ¡°It¡¯s my duty to contribute to thepany. I will do my best.¡±


    ¡°Hah,¡± Dexter snorted. ¡°Does that include backstabbing your colleague?¡±


    Samantha¡¯s expression changed immediately. She looked at Dexter in confusion.


    ¡°What do you mean, Mr. Russell? Have you heard some rumors? They must be far from the truth ¨C you


    mustn¡¯t believe them.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Don¡¯t worry about it, Ms. Robson. It¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    Samantha heaved a sigh of relief and realized her back was wet with sweat.


    ¡°I was startled by your ims, Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°I see. It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m just walking around. You can continue your work.¡±


    Samantha felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders and quickly retreated.


    When the other colleagues saw that she had been speaking to Dexter for quite some time, they


    assumed that her bing the manager was because of her connections with him.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Otherwise, how could she be promoted so quickly?


    Dexter walked around the department. Finally, he spotted Josie, who sat in a corner, buried in a pile of


    documents.


    She was so busy with her work that she didn¡¯t even notice him.


    He rubbed his nose. Since when have I be so inconsequential?


    He walked to her and knocked on her desk.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    She raised her head and gave a start.


    ¡°M-Mr. Russell.¡±


    He was baffled upon finding her working on some insignificant documents.


    Isn¡¯t she also a designer? I¡¯ve seen her work ¨C it¡¯s pretty good. Why is she doing admin work here?


    ¡°Show me thetest design for the food packaging project.¡±


    Josie froze for a moment before returning to her senses. ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll get it now.¡±


    With that, she recalled that Samantha had stolen her designs, and she hadn¡¯t cleared her name yet.


    Hence, she said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell. I¡¯m not in charge of that project. If you want to look at the


    designs, you¡¯ll have to ask Ms. Robson.¡±


    A flicker of doubt flitted across Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re not a part of it?¡±


    ¡°Nope,¡± she replied, sitting down. ¡°Ms. Robson is leading the project. It¡¯s best if you talk to her about it if


    there are any problems.¡±


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Knowing that Dexter wanted to check on the design department, Samantha went to him. ¡°Mr. Russell,


    the designs are in my office. You can take a look there.¡±


    Dexter initially intended to walk around after lunch to see what Josie was busy with. He asked that


    question because he previously saw her taking the project¡¯s lead.


    Since he brought the subject up, he couldn¡¯t abandon it halfway.


    When they arrived at Samantha¡¯s office, she showed him the designs immediately.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, this is the confirmed design. Our clients are happy with the results.¡±


    Initially, Dexter was not interested, but his gaze dimmed after seeing the screen¡¯s design.


    Only Samantha¡¯s name was shown in the bottom left corner.


    Recalling Josie¡¯s upset expression, he suddenly understood something.


    ¡°Did you design this?¡± he asked.


    Samantha replied with a straight face, ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    He smiled. ¡°borate more on your idea.¡±


    Samantha was momentarily stunned, but she quickly replied, ¡°My idea came from the project itself. I


    umted the upsides of the product and used bolder colors¡­¡±


    All the years she had dabbled in design were not wasted; at the very least, she still had some skills and


    techniques.


    After she finished exining, she looked at him earnestly.


    ¡°But these are just my two cents. Do let me know if you see any room for improvement.¡±


    He raised his head and looked at her.


    ¡°This idea is quite creative but doesn¡¯t have any substance; it¡¯s very surface level.¡±


    Samantha froze.


    ¡°Ms. Robson, are you sure you came up with this idea alone?¡±


    Samantha didn¡¯t understand his implied meaning. ¡°Yes. Mr. Russell. I did it myself.¡±


    Unexpectedly, he said, ¡°Is that so? It¡¯s a coincidence that I¡¯ve seen the same design from two different


    people.¡±


    Samantha was incredulous to hear that.


    She looked at him with her mouth agape, at a loss for words.


    ¡°Ms. Robson, would you like to exin what is happening?¡±


    ¡°M-Mr. Russell, t-this is my design,¡± she said, clenching her clothes tightly.


    I can¡¯t tell him the truth, or I¡¯ll be ruined.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure where you saw the other copy. If that¡¯s the case, someone must have stolen my work. I


    have the right to report giarism.¡±

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, I will fulfill your request.¡±


    With onest gaze at herptop screen, Dexter walked away disdainfully.


    Samantha shivered as she looked at his back. Anxiety rose within her as soon as she recalled his cold


    gaze.


    What does he mean? From his tone, he seems to know the truth. Could Josie have told him her side of


    the story? No, she wouldn¡¯t do that. Herptop is not working anymore, and there¡¯s no evidence to


    support her ims. Mr. Russell won¡¯t believe her.


    She paced around the room anxiously. Though she had a foolproof n, she still couldn¡¯t stop


    worrying.


    Meanwhile, Dexter walked to Josie, who was still busy with the documents.


    He frowned and knocked on her desk. ¡°Bring yourptop to my office.¡±


    She raised her head in a daze. Before she realized what was going on, he had already left.


    If I remember correctly, he looked grim when he left.


    ¡°Why did Mr. Russell call Josie into his office out of a sudden?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not in charge of any projectstely.¡±


    Alice also scooted over and asked softly, ¡°Could it be that Samanthained about you, and he¡¯s


    going to fire you?¡±


    ¡°Help,¡± she yelped, but she didn¡¯t think she would be fired. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    She grabbed herptop and caught up with Dexter, looking like she might die a heroic death.


    On the top floor of Russell Group, Josie¡¯sptop was ced on Dexter¡¯s desk.


    He switched it on and typed away even though the screen was blue with indecipherable code.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, myptop is infected with a virus. The technical team has tried fixing it a few times, but it¡¯s


    still not working,¡± she reported tentatively.


    Could it be that hisptop broke down, and he wants to use mine? No, that shouldn¡¯t be the case, she


    spected internally.


    It was within his expectations. He massaged his temples, recalling Samantha¡¯s indignance moments


    ago. Then, he looked at Josie, who took on everything alone.


    Suddenly, anger red within him.


    ¡°Are you a punching bag for others?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    He didn¡¯t reply to her. Instead, he took out his phone and made a call. The other person said


    something, and he replied, ¡°Be in my office in ten minutes.¡±


    Josie was baffled by his actions. ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±


    He ignored her.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    As soon as he looked at her, she forced a smile. ¡°Mr. Russell, I was just saying I¡¯ll leave your office now


    if there¡¯s nothing else to talk about. I have a lot of work to do.¡±


    ¡°Just wait here.¡±


    Josie could only want quietly.


    Ten minutester, a rather wild-looking man arrived. ¡°Dex, I never thought you would need me.¡±


    Dexter turned theptop to him. ¡°Can you fix this?¡±


    He crouched and examined theptop closely. ¡°Easy. Just give me half an hour.¡± He smiled widely.


    They¡¯re gonna fix myptop?


    Josie looked excited. ¡°The technical team said this is the most potent virus abroad. Not many can fix


    this.¡±


    That man snorted outughing and looked at Josie. ¡°Well, look closely then. Because I¡¯m one of those


    that can.¡±


    Woah¡­ Dexter¡¯s friend is really confident in himself.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Half an hourter, he finished typing, and theptop resumed its normal state. He passed it to Dexter.


    ¡°Check if anything¡¯s missing.¡±


    Before Dexter could react, Josie excitedly snatched theptop and located her designs. When she saw


    them, she almost cried tears of joy.


    ¡°This is great! I can finally prove that I didn¡¯t copy her work!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s friend was perplexed to see that. He looked at his best friend smiling at Josie, who was


    dancing around.


    This is a miracle.

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    Dexter felt his gaze and looked at him warningly.


    Josie was overjoyed, holding herptop in her hands. Now that it¡¯s fixed and I got back my original


    drafts let¡¯s see if Samantha still dares to ask me to provide evidence.


    She bowed deeply to Dexter. ¡°Thanks a lot, Mr. Russell!¡±


    ¡°Instead of thanking me, you should work smarter,¡± he ridiculed, but without contempt. Instead, there


    was a smile on his face.


    No wonder this idiot hasn¡¯t stood out after all these years. Others bully her.


    Josie was used to how he spoke; she knew very well that he had a good heart and cared about his


    employees.


    ¡°What are you guys doing, thanking each other? I¡¯m the one who fixed it. Me! Can you see me?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s friend waved at them incredulously.


    Josie returned to her senses and thanked him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Thanks a lot! You¡¯re amazing, and you saved


    my life.¡±


    The yful tone in her voice made him feel as though they were friends. An employee usually wouldn¡¯t


    be this casual in front of their CEO.


    The man arched his eyebrows and extended his hand. ¡°Hmph, now you know. I¡¯m Calvin Barrett, Dex¡¯s


    friend.¡±


    When he said Dexter¡¯s nickname, his gaze was focused on Dexter and Josie.


    ¡°M-Mr. Russell¡¯s friend? Nice to meet you. I¡¯m Josie from the design department.¡± An uneasy look


    appeared on her face.


    ¡°You work here?¡±


    Duh, of course. What else should I say? That I¡¯m technically his wife, and you should call me Mrs.


    Russell? That¡¯s too much.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Just thinking about it made her feel like she would die from embarrassment.


    ¡°Do you know that this is the first time Dexter asked me for help because of a woman? You are the first


    one,¡± Calvin said yfully.


    Sure enough, she froze. T-The first¡­


    Dexter pursed his lips. He could tell Josie felt awkward hearing that, so he saved her from the


    conversation. ¡°Aren¡¯t you busy?¡±


    Josie immediately returned to her senses. ¡°Oh, right. I¡¯ll get back to work now.¡±


    With that, she escaped from the room. There was a yful smile on Calvin¡¯s face. He sat in front of


    Dexter¡¯s desk. ¡°I don¡¯t know you care about your employees so much, Dex.¡±


    Dexter remained quiet in his chair. He was not nning to exin everything to Calvin. ¡°The files in her


    laptop are important; that¡¯s about it. You¡¯re not needed here anymore ¨C you can leave now.¡±


    ¡°She looks familiar, though. I felt like we¡¯ve met somewhere,¡± Calvin muttered, ignoring Dexter.


    ¡°Ivy, walk him out.¡±


    With that, a slenderdy with exquisite makeup in formal attire entered the room. ¡°Mr. Barrett, this way,


    please.¡±


    Calvin narrowed his eyes at Ivy Miller, Dexter¡¯s assistant. ¡°You¡¯re such a heartless person. We¡¯ve met


    many times, yet you still refuse to speak up for me.¡±


    There was a perfunctory smile on her face. ¡°I booked your favorite restaurant, Mr. Barrett, just in time


    for lunch.¡±


    Calvin smiled and waved at Dexter. ¡°Bye.¡±


    ¡°See you.¡±


    As soon as Calvin left, the smile on Ivy¡¯s face disappeared. I¡¯ve worked for Mr. Russell since


    graduation, and I¡¯ve never seen him help any employees. He even asked his friend to help her out.


    Could it be¡­?


    She shook her head. Impossible. That employee has no background. How could he take a liking to


    her? Perhaps the contents of theptop are critical to Russell Group.

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    When Josie returned to the design department, she looked crestfallen. Upon seeing that, Alice quickly


    asked, ¡°What happened? What did Mr. Russell do?¡±


    A figure appeared at the manager¡¯s office. Josie saw that and sighed tiredly. ¡°He wanted to see my


    designs, but myptop broke down, so he gave me a scolding.¡±


    Alice looked sorry for her. ¡°Sounds like hell. From your ount, I could visualize the situation. I¡¯m so


    sorry for you, Josie.¡±


    Everyone around them was paying attention to their conversation. After hearing Josie¡¯s exnation,


    they finally got confirmation that Dexter didn¡¯t have his eye on her. Instead, he probably didn¡¯t even like


    her.


    Josie sat down at her desk and sighed. ¡°I think it¡¯s better to get back to sorting these documents. I¡¯ll


    have enough to suffer if I don¡¯t finish this by tomorrow.¡±


    Samantha snorted outughing. Nothing went wrong, it seems. Perhaps Mr. Russell saw the original


    drafts somewhere, but I bet he didn¡¯t expect Josie¡¯sptop to break down. In that case, there¡¯s no


    evidence, even if he has suspicions about me.


    Samantha¡¯s mood took a better turn. When it was time to knock off, she gracefully walked out of her


    office.


    In the evening, the lights at Mason Garden were turned on.


    When Dexter returned from a business dinner, Josie was nowhere to be seen.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Josie?¡± he asked Julie, who helped him out of his coat.


    ¡°After dinner, she went to her room. She said she¡¯s cooking a mysterious n.¡±


    Dexter frowned upon hearing that. She must be preparing to take revenge.


    Her door was slightly ajar. When passing by her room, Dexter stopped and peered through.


    She typed away on herptop, giggling to herself. ¡°Hehehehe¡­¡±


    His frown deepened. I must be going bonkers to spend time watching this idiot entertain herself.


    The next day, Samantha needed to submit her designs to be examined. They would only sign the


    contract with the client after making sure there were no problems.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your energy? You guys are still so young; how could you be so tired? You¡¯re ruining our


    image!¡± She lectured everyone as soon as she walked into the meeting room.


    Alice rolled her eyes and whispered to Josie, ¡°Hmph. She doesn¡¯t have any true skills; she only knows


    how to act like a manager.¡±


    Josie spun the pen in her hands calmly.


    ¡°Since everyone is here, let¡¯s start the meeting, Ms. Robson.¡±


    Samantha red at her.


    The designs were shown on a PowerPoint, and Samantha repeated her source of inspiration to Dexter


    again.


    ¡°If there are no other opinions on this, we will sign the contract.¡±


    At that moment, Josie slowly raised her hand. ¡°I have something to add.¡±


    Samantha spoke through gritted teeth, ¡°Josie, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Why? Can¡¯t I say something?¡±


    Under everyone¡¯s stares, Samantha was unable to reject her.


    ¡°I think your idea is too shallow.¡± Josie stood up. ¡°This design has a deeperyer of meaning to it. Apart


    from bold colors, the lines are also specially designed. If you look closely at the logo in the middle, you


    will notice that the tenth anniversary of thepany is hidden there.¡±


    The people in the room hummed in surprise upon hearing that.

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    A chill crept down Samantha¡¯s spine. She took a deep breath and forced a smile. ¡°Oh, I forgot about


    that. You have an eye for details, indeed. Take a seat, Josie.¡±


    Josie remained immobile. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to hear how I knew about that?¡± Josie asked innocently.


    Fear slowly snaked around Samantha¡¯s heart. She seemed to be losing to Josie¡¯s calm and


    steadiness. The corners of her lips twitched, but she remembered that Josie had no evidence.


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m the designer.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. You can¡¯t just make a im like that without any eviden¨C¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, Josie turned herptop around, showing everyone the design.


    Instead, Samantha stopped short and started sweating.


    When did she fix herptop? That is impossible!


    There were audible gasps in the room.


    ¡°Let me have a look. Josie created this a week ago, and Ms. Robson¡¯s is¡­ obviouslyter than hers.¡±


    Samantha quickly retaliated, ¡°This proves nothing! I¡¯ve been editing the designs. When this was


    created is no evidence. Not only did she giarize my work, but she is also throwing unfounded


    usations on me!¡±


    Josie nodded and typed on her keyboard. ¡°It¡¯s true. The dates don¡¯t matter. But Ms. Robson, since you


    kept making changes to the design, didn¡¯t you notice anything peculiar?¡±


    Samantha turned to her design and looked through it quickly, not knowing what to reply.


    Alice also quickly appraised the design and muttered, ¡°I don¡¯t see anything either¡­¡±


    Josie crossed her hands in front of her chest and walked to Samantha. Then, she pointed at the top


    right corner.


    If one didn¡¯t look close enough, one wouldn¡¯t have noticed that ¨C there was a tiny watermark with the


    initials ¡®J.W.¡¯


    It was Josie¡¯s habit to leave a watermark on her work to avoid giarism.


    Everyone was stunned to see that. It was as clear as day who was the original creator.


    Samantha fell into her chair in despair, losing herposure.


    ¡°Before submitting my work, I would usually remove the watermark. This time around, you took my


    work before I could do that. I forgot about it until I got myptop fixed.¡±


    Josie was worried about her carelessness, but this time around, it helped her out.


    ¡°Tsk! I was just wondering how she could be a manager. What a loser.¡±


    The colleagues talked among themselves, shooting disdainful andmiserating looks at Samantha.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Josie emerged as the winner this time around.


    ¡°I told you I would find evidence.¡± Josie pursed her lips firmly. ¡°Do you remember what you told me? ¡®I


    understand you would like to be promoted, but you can¡¯t fake it¡¯ ¨C that¡¯s what you said, and I return the


    same sentiments to you now.¡±


    Samantha¡¯s face was as pale as a ghost. Even her lips were trembling. She wanted to clear the air but


    couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    The humiliation after being discovered had ruined her image.


    When everyone criticized her, a few security guards entered, followed by a formidable-looking man in a


    suit.


    ¡°This is Phil Yves, the human resources department manager.¡±


    ¡°Get her out. A dishonest person has no ce here,¡± he instructed.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    Samantha struggled against their grip maniacally. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving! I¡¯m the manager of the design


    department. Unless I hear it from Mr. Russell, no one can make me leave!¡±


    She had forgotten that she had once offended Dexter.


    ¡°How do you call yourself a designer when you copy other people¡¯s work? I can¡¯t believe you dare to


    stay here. We have the right to fire you immediately, you know!¡±


    With bloodshot eyes, Samantha ran to Josie. ¡°You¡¯re behind this! You set up a trap for me!¡±


    Josie took a step back and said calmly, ¡°Just leave as Mr. Davidson did.¡±


    ¡°Bring her away!¡± Philmanded.


    The security guards caught hold of Samantha and dragged her out of the building in an embarrassing


    manner.


    Alice couldn¡¯t stopughing. ¡°Everyone in the office now knows that she¡¯s fired. Jo, you finally got your


    revenge!¡±


    Josie heaved a sigh of relief and smiled. Indeed.


    After the episode, the rest of the colleagues left, specting about who the next manager would be as


    they walked away.


    ¡°You informed Mr. Yves beforehand, didn¡¯t you? You told him that there would be drama here.


    Impressive¡­¡± Alice was still thinking about what had just happened.


    Josie was deep in her thoughts. I didn¡¯t inform Mr. Yves, but¡­ I told Dexter about this.


    She woke up early in the morning and asked Julia to bring him a note: ¡®If you like drama,e to our


    departmentter.¡¯


    Dexter saw that, but he didn¡¯t show up. Instead, he told Phil, who had the authority and was more


    appropriate to handle the situation.


    Undeniably, it was the best arrangement.


    After that, everyone knew that Josie was not someone to cross with, and no one dared to bully her


    anymore.


    At the same time, sunlight poured through the French windows and shone on Dexter¡¯s face in a


    meeting room on the top floor, making his facial features even more attractive.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, your coffee is here.¡± Ivy put the coffee down. She nced at hisptop screen without


    meaning to and froze.


    ¡°Are you looking at the surveince cameras, Mr. Russell?¡±


    He closed the window without even looking at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m just checking some stuff.¡±


    Ivy dared not pursue the topic further and walked out in a daze. It seems to be¡­ the design


    department on level twenty-seven. What was Mr. Russell looking at?


    As her suspicions grew, she called a number. ¡°Hey Lucy, it¡¯s me. Did something happen at the design


    department today?¡±


    In the parking lot, Josie was talking to herself.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I sincerely thank you for everything you¡¯ve done for me. Do I have the honor of inviting


    you for dinner tonight? Wait ¨C how much will that cost? Let¡¯s change it¡­ Eh-hem! Mr. Russell, you are


    Russell Group¡¯s beacon of hope. I¡¯d like to make dinner for you to show my appreciation. How about


    that?¡± She smiled happily. ¡°Sounds good. The cost is low if I cook myself. I¡¯ll say that instead!¡±


    She constantly avoided other vehicles as she waited before a ck Porsche. However, Dexter was


    nowhere to be seen.


    After watching her for quite some time, Dexter walked out from the shadows. As his expensive leather


    shoes rang on the floor, he said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for that.¡±


    Josie froze. As he walked toward her, she thought, Even if a hole miraculously appeared in the ground


    right now, I wouldn¡¯t have the guts to jump in.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, when did you get here?¡±


    ¡°Since you started showing your admiration for me.¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    ¡°How could you listen in?¡± she said in annoyance with a blush on her face.


    How could he do that?


    ¡°If my memory serves me right, you are standing right in front of my car.¡± He enunciated every syble


    clearly, leaving her dumbfounded.


    Since she was at a loss for words, she pped her hand and showed the results of her practice


    moments ago. ¡°Since you heard everything, do I have the honor to cook for you?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    How ruthless.


    This time around, Josie honestly had no reply for him.


    Since she was young, her father taught her to always repay one¡¯s kindness.


    She remembered how Dexter had helped her all this while. If he didn¡¯t ask Calvin to fix herptop, she


    wouldn¡¯t have been able to take revenge on Samantha.


    However, after mustering her courage, he rejected her offer.


    Slightly crestfallen, she was about to nod and escape the awkward situation.


    Suddenly, he spoke. ¡°We¡¯re going to the hospital tonight.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Are we visiting your grandfather?¡±


    ¡°We are fetching him home today.¡±


    In the car, Josie finally knew that he had fully recovered and was whining about going home, but Dexter


    had been busy. He only had some free time to fetch Henry home in the evening.


    ¡°Are you the only grandson? Where are the¨C¡± she blurted out but managed to catch herself halfway.


    His eyes were shut. The neon lights from the surroundings outside reflected onto his exquisite face.


    ¡°My grandfather only has a son ¨C my father. He passed when I was little. Grandpa is the one who


    brought me up, so it must be me to take care of him. I feel uneasy if other rtives took over,¡± he


    exined coolly, as though it was unrted to him. However, the words ¡®it must be me¡¯ asserted his


    dominance.


    Josie nodded and didn¡¯t dare to ask about his mother.


    Since he¡¯s unwilling to talk about her, something terrible must have happened.


    Before entering the ward, he stopped her and gave her his hand. She was momentarily stunned before


    grabbing it.


    His cold hand sent a jolt through her, but he quickly held her hand tightly.


    ¡°Remember to call me Dex,¡± he reminded.


    Henry had been in the hospital for some time, so he couldn¡¯t wait to go home. He was overjoyed when


    he saw Josie.


    ¡°You¡¯re the best, Jo. At least you came here to pick me up, unlike someone else¡­¡±


    Dexter took the luggage prepared by the nurses.


    ¡°Grandpa, you¡¯re so biased. Am I invisible to you?¡±


    Josie smiled at him to cheer him up. ¡°Dex has been talking about picking you up for the entire day.


    Please forgive him, Grandpa.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do that for you,¡± he said willfully.


    Henry looked much better, and his voice was steady.


    Josie read through his report ¨C it was a disease that was very difficult to cure. It seemed he had gotten


    better simply because Dexter had found a wife.


    Russell Mansion ¨C the ancestral home of the Russells ¨C was near the mountains and ake. It was like


    a little kingdom in Wavery, where every inch ofnd cost a bomb.


    It was Josie¡¯s first visit; she tried to suppress her surprise when she saw the mansion. Rich people¡¯s


    lives are so different!


    However, the buildings looked familiar to her.


    ¡°Jo, if you like this ce, feel free toe over anytime with Dexter. Just treat it as your own home.


    You don¡¯t have to care about pleasantries here.¡± His warm voice soothed her fears.


    ¡°You¡¯re the humblest millionaire I¡¯ve ever met,¡± she said with a smile.


    Henryughed out loud, and even Dexter had a small smile.

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    The maids at Russell Mansion knew that Henry was going to be discharged, so they made a


    scrumptious dinner.


    This was Josie¡¯s second meal with Henry. She was not as nervous as before now that she knew Henry


    cared about her genuinely.


    After dinner, he called both of them to his study.


    He was a Buddhist, so he lit an incense that smelled nice.


    Josie was still looking around the familiar surroundings. I feel like I¡¯ve been here before.


    Dexter grabbed her hand. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°This ce looks familiar. Perhaps I¡¯ve seen simr designs in some books. Just ignored me,¡± she


    replied uncertainly.


    At that moment, Henry took out a vintage box and motioned for Josie to sit.


    ¡°Your grandma left this for you. Before she died, she was hoping to see Dexter get married.


    Unfortunately¡­¡±


    ¡°Grandpa¨C¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a jade bracelet in it. It has been passed down since your great-great-grandmother. It was with


    Dex¡¯s mother before this, but there were some idents¡­ Josie, it¡¯s time to pass it to you now.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    He opened the box, revealing a beautiful jade bangle that shone brightly. It was apparent that it cost a


    lot of money.


    It was out of Josie¡¯s expectations to receive such an invaluable gift. She quickly rejected him. ¡°No, no. I


    can¡¯t take such an important item. Grandpa, just keep it as it is.¡±


    Henry spoke seriously. ¡°Before my wife died, she made me promise to hand this over to Dexter¡¯s future


    wife. You¡¯re his wife now ¨C you¡¯re entirely entitled to this.¡±


    Yes, but I¡¯m not actually his wife! I can¡¯t take this!


    She shot a helpless nce at Dexter and pulled his sleeves. Say something!


    He felt that he had been smiling too muchtely. Josie¡¯s eyes were slightly red, looking like a timid


    rabbit.


    ¡°Just take it,¡± he replied.


    Do you know what you¡¯re talking about?


    Dexter held her wrist and put it on her. The jade had a great contrast against her fair hands.


    ¡°Is there anything my wife can¡¯t take? You¡¯re implying that you don¡¯t want to be my wife by rejecting


    this,¡± he said calmly, rendering Josie speechless.


    She couldn¡¯t refute him in front of Henry.


    What about our act? He¡¯s not following the script at all!


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Henry was over the moon upon seeing that. ¡°Even if my granddaughter-inw wants the


    moon, we will get it for her.¡±


    Josie was still struggling against Dexter. He shot him a nce. ¡°The jade will look prettier if you wear it


    often. Just keep it with you.¡±


    ¡°Alright, then.¡± I definitely can¡¯t take this. I have to return it to himter.


    Rain started pouring down outside.


    Josie ran to the balcony and saw the downpour apanied by some lightning.


    She looked at Dexter worriedly. ¡°It¡¯s raining.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. It looks like it¡¯s not going to stop anytime soon.¡± Henry waved. ¡°You guys don¡¯t have to hurry


    back. It¡¯s unsafe to drive in this weather anyway. Just stay the night.¡±


    Her fears hade true.


    Dexter didn¡¯t have any objections. ¡°Let¡¯s do that.¡±

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    After Josie greeted Henry, she chased after Dexter and grabbed his arm. She spoke in a low voice,


    ¡°Mr. Russell, why are we staying?¡±


    Dexter nced outside and replied, ¡°Do you want to be struck by lightning?¡±


    Josie was stumped before she said, ¡°But do you know what staying back means? I will be entering your


    territory. Don¡¯t you hate it when I enter your room?¡± The two cannot sleep in separate rooms under


    Henry¡¯s surveince.


    So this was what she was worried about.


    Dexter was amused when he saw her acting awkwardly. He deliberately teased her. ¡°It¡¯s alright. This


    isn¡¯t Mason Garden. I¡¯ll allow it.¡±


    Before Josie could refute it, a maid walked over towards them with a nket in her arms. She said


    gently, ¡°Please follow me.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡±


    She opened the door and exined with a smile, ¡°Although Dex seldom stays at home, we keep his


    room clean.¡±


    Josie braced herself and entered Dexter¡¯s bedroom. It had a Nordic-style design¡ªclean and simple. It


    was just what he liked. His huge bed lookedfortable.


    He seemed to get along with the people here very well since they called them ¡®Dex .¡¯He did not put on


    airs.


    This was Josie¡¯s first time entering her boss¡¯ private space. She felt a little afraid, yet bizarre at the


    same time.


    ¡°Thank you, Marilyn. I will do the rest.¡± Dexter spoke, saving Josie from the awkwardness.


    Marilyn nodded and nced at the two youngsters teasingly before she left.


    Josie felt the urge to hide.


    Dexter patted Josie¡¯s head, amused. He said, ¡°I¡¯ll shower first ¡±


    I¡¯ll shower first. It sounded like part of a conversation a new couple would have before experiencing


    their first intimacy!


    Josie blinked, ¡°What about me?¡±


    Dexter frowned.


    ¡°I mean, what about me after you¡¯ve showered? I didn¡¯t bring any clothes.¡± She needed a shower. It


    had been a long day.


    ¡°Good question.¡±


    An hourter, Josie opened the bathroom door quietly. ¡°Mr. Russell, can you switch off the lights?¡±


    The man was lying on the bed in his pajamas after a shower. He was reading the news. He raised his


    eyes and replied, ¡°No one would bother to look at you. Your figure is not that sexy anyway.¡±


    Josie could not help but lower her head and look at herself. She was wearing Dexter¡¯s shirt. But it was


    so short that it barely covered her legs. A slight movement would expose her underwear.


    ¡°¡­ Well¡­ My legs¡­¡­¡±


    Dexter faintly smiled as he raised his hands to switch off the lights. The room turned dark instantly.


    Josie took a deep breath before walking out of the bathroom. ¡°Mr. Russell, where should I sleep?¡±


    There was only one bed in the room.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind if you sleep on the floor.¡±


    Josie quickly climbed up the bed and hid under the nket. She curled herself up in one corner and


    said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell! We should each have half of the bed! Whoever passes the center is a


    twit!¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. He was used to being called ¡®Dex¡¯ all night. He suddenly felt uneasy when


    he heard her call him ¡®Mr. Russell¡¯.


    ¡°Go to sleep.¡± He paused a while before he continued, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not interested in you.¡±


    But Josie could not sleep.


    She had never slept with a man her whole life.


    Moreover, Dexter smelled nice. This is weird. We used the same shower cream. Why does his smell


    exceptionally pleasant? Josie gripped tightly onto the nket. She could hear her own heart pounding


    wildly.


    ¡°Mr., Mr. Russell¡­ Are you asleep?¡± She dared not move.


    ¡°Yes?¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    Dexter¡¯s voice was hoarse from, perhaps, sleepiness.


    Josie¡¯s ears were burning from embarrassment.


    ¡°I should return this bangle to you. It is too expensive. I worry I will spoil it.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa gave it to you. Do you want to make him sad?¡±


    Josie sighed. ¡°Then I shall return it to you when we get divorced.¡±


    Dexter paused. He suddenly felt annoyed even though the divorce was expected.


    ¡°This jade bangle is an antique from thest century. It is so pure that you will never find a third one in


    this country. You could buy an ind with it.¡±


    Josie almost fell out of bed when she heard Dexter¡¯s words.


    She would never be able to pay for it even if she sold herself.


    ¡°So you will have to take responsibility if you damage it.¡±


    He is a devil.


    Josie had felt a little touched initially. But now, she only felt like sleeping. ¡°Goodnight, Mr. Russell.¡±


    She was met with silence.


    The next morning.


    The first person Josie saw when she opened her eyes was Dexter. The man¡¯s face looked huge. She


    did not notice anything strange as she croaked, ¡°Good morning, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    Josie took a few seconds to realize that there was skin underneath her hand. She rubbed against it for


    a bit before a thought got through her head.


    She was hugging Dexter with a leg wrapped over his waist! She was treating him like a doll. The ¡®doll¡¯s¡¯


    face was dark. He was obviously unhappy about the treatment he was receiving.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Whoever passes the center is a twit? Josie, do you feelfortable lying on my body?¡± The man


    sounded annoyed.


    He had always hated intimacy with women.


    Josie quickly got away and apologized, ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry! I did not do that on purpose. I forgot to tell you


    that I move a lot when sleep¡­¡±


    Only then, Dexter sat up. Just as he was about tosh out, he identally saw her body through her


    shirt¡¯s rolled-up sleeves. He quickly looked away as he blushed hard.


    ¡°Pig.¡±


    Immediately after speaking, he locked himself in the bathroom and started freshening himself up. Josie


    did not see Dexter out of breath as he looked into the mirror at himself.


    This is impossible. Why would I be aroused by her¡­


    Josie, on the other hand, just realized what Dexter saw. She shrieked in utter embarrassment.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    The two of them did not talk to each other.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t the two of you talking?¡±


    Henry asked Dexter and Josie at the dining table. He could feel that something was going on between


    them.


    Josie buried her face in her bowl. She did not dare raise her head and look at Dexter. She replied dully,


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, Grandpa. I¡¯m just still sleepy.¡±


    God save me! I¡¯m still single, but Dexter has seen my naked body! Am I still pure?


    Josie simply ate a few mouthfuls, then excused herself after exchanging pleasantries. ¡°Grandpa, I must


    hurry to work, or I¡¯ll bete!¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    Dexter took his car keys and said, ¡°I¡¯m heading to work too.¡± The image of him chasing after Josie


    made him seem younger.


    Marilyn smiled as she watched Dexter leave. ¡°Dex has changed ever since he got together with Jo.¡±


    ¡°The kid needed apanion.¡±


    Josie got into Dexter¡¯s car.


    She curled herself up in a corner to distance herself from Dexter.


    ¡°Why are you acting shy? I¡¯m the one who was being taken advantage of, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Who, who¡¯s acting shy? Moreover, it¡¯s different for males and females. You only got hugged for a short


    moment, whereas I lost my purity!¡± Josie held her face in her hands as she cried distressfully.

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    Dexterughed, ¡°Josie, have you never?¡±


    Josie wished so hard that she didn¡¯t understand what Dexter was referring to¡­ But she could not


    pretend that she didn¡¯t understand. That would mean she had lost.


    ¡°Who told you that? Of course, I have!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile slowly faded away. His face darkened.


    He merely hummed in response a few momentster. Then, he started speeding so fast that the


    seatbelt tightened over Josie¡¯s body. It was painful, but Josie dared not voice out.


    This man¡¯s feelings were written all over his face and actions.


    On the twenty-seventh floor at Russell Group.


    Josie walked out of the elevator gloomily. She bumped into Alice by coincidence. Alice greeted her


    enthusiastically, ¡°Morning!¡±


    ¡°Morning¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter with you? Why do you look lifeless? You should have had a good night¡¯s sleep since


    Samantha left.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I was in the wolf¡¯s denst night.¡±


    Alice did not get Josie¡¯s meaning. However, the bangle on Josie¡¯s wrist caught her eye. She widened


    her eyes and eximed in disbelief. ¡°Josie!¡±


    Everyone around them was startled by Alice¡¯s cry. Josie almost jumped in fright, too, out of guilt,


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°What is on your wrist?¡±


    Everyone stared at Josie¡¯s wrist when they heard Alice¡¯s question. The expensive bangle was very


    eye-catching on Josie¡¯s fair wrist. As designers, everyone noticed the quality of the bangle at once.


    ¡°Wow, Josie!¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart started pounding wildly again. It seemed to be on a roller coaster ride today.


    She tried hard to maintain her calm as she said, ¡°Why are you all giving me that look? I wouldn¡¯t be


    able to afford such an expensive item. This is a fake! It looks real, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    It was pretty convincing indeed, as Josie had always been stingy.


    ¡°Well, its workmanship is quite good.¡±


    ¡°I knew it! It couldn¡¯t be real. Although you look good in it, you can still only wear a fake.¡± ire spoke.


    She was also from the design department.


    Since Samantha left, everyone was guessing if Josie or ire would be the next director. They were


    the top designers in the department.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ire was the leader of Group A. She had a higher chance of getting picked.


    But Josie¡¯s performance yesterday was outstanding. She stood a chance too.


    Alice wanted to speak up for Josie, but Josie stopped her. ¡°It¡¯s fine. There¡¯s no need to continue this


    conversation. Let¡¯s start work.¡±


    Alice sighed and looked at Josie¡¯s wrist again. But her look stopped at Josie¡¯s hand this time. ¡°Hey, why


    is there a ring on your finger? Is that real? It isn¡¯t fake, too, is it? Why have you been wearing jewelry


    recently¡­ Wait, isn¡¯t this your wedding ring?¡±


    Oh yeah.


    Dexter insisted that she wore her wedding ring yesterday when they met Henry. She had forgotten to


    take it off after.


    Josie nodded embarrassedly, ¡°Well, it¡¯s just some handicraft. I¡¯m wearing it for fun.¡±


    When everyone left, Josie took off the ring. She had a headache. The bangle was too eye-catching.


    She could not keep exining to everyone who asked. She had to find a ce to hide it.


    Ivy witnessed the whole scene at the design department this morning.


    She had felt uneasy when she heard from Lucy about what had happened yesterday. Ivy had a hunch


    that something was going on between Dexter and Josie. She did not expect to see this as soon as she


    arrived at the twenty-seventh floor this morning when she reached Russell Group.


    Jade bangle, ring¡­


    An employee who happened to pass by greeted her, ¡°Ms. Miller, what brings you to our floor? Did Mr.


    Russell send you here?¡±


    The whole of Russell Group knew how important Ivy was to Dexter. She had been working with Russell


    Group before it started expanding. She had a lot of authority in Russell Group, so everyone who met


    her was sure to be polite to her.


    Ivy regained her consciousness and replied, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m just looking around. I¡¯m going up first.¡±

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    Dexter arrived at his office early today, even before Ivy had prepared his breakfast.


    Ivy panicked for a moment. She hurriedly prepared some toast. This was what she made for Dexter


    daily. He was always too busy to take care of his meals.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯m sorry, I arrivedte today. This is your breakfast.¡± Ivy said carefully.


    Dexter was expressionless as he studied the financial reports for the first quarter of the year.


    ¡°I¡¯m early today. I¡¯ve eaten. You can have it.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Eaten? Ivy was a little surprised. ¡°¡­ Okay.¡±


    She picked up the te and peeked at Dexter. Just at that moment, she saw a ring on his finger!


    It was on his ring finger.


    Its meaning was clear.


    Ivy lost concentration for a moment. The te in her hand slipped and fell onto the ground. Hot coffee


    spilled all over her. ¡°Ah!¡±


    Only then did Dexter raise his eyes to look at Ivy. He frowned in dismay. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    She has always been steady and rarely made such elementary mistakes. What is wrong with her


    today?


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell. I did not sleep wellst night. I lost myself for a moment. I shall ask someone to


    get this cleaned immediately.¡±


    Dexter was a little annoyed. ¡°Go. You can ask for sick leave the next time you feel unwell.¡±


    He had always been like this; empathetic yet strict, kind yet cold. He was a professional at work.


    Ivy stood still. Her eyes reddened, and she started to tremble.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is there anything else?¡± Dexter frowned even harder.


    ¡°No, Mr. Russell. I¡¯m just a little surprised. This is my first time seeing you wear a ring¡­ Do you have


    any good news to share about your private life?¡±


    Ivy tried to hold herself back from crying. Although she knew Dexter hated others prying into his private


    life, she still asked wryly with a smile.


    It was the first time she felt her position threatened after so many years of being by his side.


    Only then did Dexter notice the ring on his finger. He was taken aback. He had forgotten to take it off.


    He had no ns to tell anyone about his marriage. But since someone he trusted found out, there was


    no point in hiding it anymore.


    ¡°Yes.¡± He admitted frankly. ¡°I¡¯m married. It¡¯s a secret marriage. No one knows about this. You are the


    first. I do not n to make it known to others. Do you understand?¡±


    The first¡­ Ivy could barely breathe. This hurt more than killing her. Why did he get married all of a


    sudden¡­


    ¡°I understand¡­ But I¡¯ve never seen you being close to any woman before. Why did you get married


    suddenly? I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    Ivy was so obsessed with Dexter that she crossed the line.


    Dexter crossed his arms in front of his body. His eyes were cold and full of dissatisfaction. ¡°Ivy, you are


    acting unprofessional today.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I will call someone toe clean the ce right away.¡± She walked out quickly and closed


    the door after her. Tears streamed down her face.


    She had been too professional all these years, so she had no opportunity to get close to him. She


    thought she understood him the most, yet she did not even know that he was married!


    Ivy closed her eyes in despair. At this moment, the image of his ring appeared in her mind. She opened


    her eyes suddenly. Wait!


    I have seen that ring before¡­


    Where did I see it?


    Ivy¡¯s chest heaved heavily as a figure appeared in her mind. It was someone she had met half an hour


    ago.


    She took a step back. She could not ept it. How could it be? How could it be?


    Josie?


    She had been in Russell Group for so many years. Yet she never had the chance to interact with


    Dexter. Even if she did, it was just during these past few days. How can it be her?

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    The project had to go on even though Samantha had left.


    Naturally, Josie took charge of the mess. But she changed the design because she didn¡¯t want her


    reputation to be tarnished.


    Sure enough, the design was approved, and payment was made swiftly by the satisfied client.


    The whole design department was discussing the vacant director¡¯s position. They wondered if Josie or


    ire would seed in the role since both were capable and had been with Russell Group for quite a


    long time.


    Josie did not seem interested when Alice got to the topic. She said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to be the director.


    Being the director is too hustling for me.¡±


    ¡°Why are you so unambitious? Aren¡¯t you trying to make money for your father¡¯s medical bills? You¡¯ll


    make much more money if you be the director.¡±


    Medical bills¡­ With Dexter looking out for Paul, he had the best medical team assigned to him. She did


    not have to worry about him anymore. But she suddenly thought of the possibility that Dexter might not


    need her one day and would divorce her.


    She would be left with nothing.


    ¡°Thank you for reminding me. I will try my best and show my worth!¡±


    At the pantry in the design department.


    Lucy handed a cup of coffee to Ivy. She nced in the direction Ivy was looking at. Josie was busy with


    work.


    ¡°Why are you so obsessed with Josietely, Ivy? She is just someone who giarizes. Do you feel


    threatened by her too?¡±


    Ivy¡¯s face darkened. This woman was quite good-looking, although not particrly beautiful. How was it


    possible for her to be married to Dexter? Sheforted herself. Perhaps their rings are just a


    coincidence.


    The ring on Josie¡¯s finger was gone. She had no chance to affirm her guess anymore.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mr. Russell wants me to keep an eye on her. She is capable and has a bright future ahead.¡± Ivy took a


    sip of coffee and lied calmly.


    ¡°Mr. Russell told you to do so? Ivy, are the rumors true? Is she hooking up with Mr. Russell?¡± Lucy was


    excited.


    Ivy froze.


    But Lucy quickly denied her negative thoughts. ¡°How could Mr. Russell possibly fall in love with her?


    She¡¯s a married woman. Who would want her?¡±


    This was new to Ivy. She quickly put down her coffee and asked, ¡°What did you say? She¡¯s married?¡±


    Lucy looked shocked as she exined, ¡°Yes, we found outst week. She hid it really well. She has


    been married for years, yet no one knew!¡±


    ¡°When did she get married? Who is her husband?¡±


    ¡°This¡­ She didn¡¯t tell us. We don¡¯t know either¡­¡±


    Ivy took a deep breath and went straight to the point. ¡°Did you say you found out she was marriedst


    week?¡±


    ¡°Yeap.¡±


    Dexter started having interactions with Josie recently too¡­ How could there be such coincidences in


    the world?


    Ivy felt more and more threatened. She was sure that Dexter¡¯s bride was Josie!


    It was almost time to finish work.


    Josie tidied her stuff and was ready to get off work on time. She never worked overtime.


    At that moment, Lucy passed by with some documents in her arms. She smiled, ¡°Josie, the design


    department is having a gathering dinner this weekend. Would you like to bring your husband along?


    We haven¡¯t met your husband, although you married long ago.¡±


    Was there a rule that one must bring their husband to meet their colleagues?


    Someone chirped in before Josie could reply. ¡°Yeah. He doesn¡¯te to pick you up after work too.


    He¡¯s so ungentlemanlike.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps she doesn¡¯t even have a husband?¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes. She wanted to tell them so badly that they had already seen him. They wouldn¡¯t


    even dare talk to him if he stood before them.


    She thought for a while, then chuckled, ¡°Well, my husband is quite sick. It is inconvenient for him to


    follow me out.¡±

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    ¡°Sick?¡± Her colleagues exchanged nces.


    Josie initially did not want to create untrue stories about Dexter. But when she thought about how he


    took advantage of her this morning, she wanted to get back at him!


    So she lied with a straight face. ¡°Yeah, my husband has been kind of crippled since he was young, so


    he doesn¡¯t like meeting people. Well, you know what men are like. They don¡¯t like to feel inferior.¡±


    As soon as Josie finished speaking, everyone was quiet. Their eyes were full of sympathy. ire


    sneered, ¡°You are such a saint for being willing to put the rest of your life in his hands.¡±


    ¡°Well, he loves me so much that he is willing to sacrifice his life for me. Love is wonderful. I only


    married him because we matched each other!¡±


    Josie cupped her face with both her hands. She trembled while trying to hold herself back from


    laughing as she imagined Dexter being crazy about her.


    ¡°Mr¡­. Mr. Russell¡­ Are you getting off work?¡± Alice¡¯s voice trembled as she looked behind Josie.


    Josie was still smiling as she responded. ¡°Mr. Russell? What about Mr. Russell?¡±


    However, as soon as she turned around, she saw Dexter in front of her.


    He looked gloomy, like usual.


    His hands were in the pockets of his tight ck trousers. Josie felt slightly pressured when he looked at


    her from a higher angle.


    Josie took a step back in surprise, but she identally tripped over the chair and fell awkwardly.


    A chorus ofughter suddenly burst out in the office.


    God save me! Why do weird things like this happen every day since I met Dexter?


    Dexter nced at the woman on the ground. A sparkle glinted in his eyes as he answered Alice, ¡°I just


    happened to pass by. You all can get off work.¡±


    He left as soon as he finished speaking. Ivy, who was behind him, hurried to catch up. After taking a


    few steps forward, he turned around. Josie had just gotten up and was rubbing her wrist.


    Ivy¡¯s eyes turned dim.


    Dexter had a business dinner tonight. He brought Phil along with him. Phil was one of the senior


    employees in Russell Group whom he trusted.


    When the meeting ended, Dexter asked, ¡°There¡¯s a vacancy in the design department. I don¡¯t think


    leaving it vacant for long is a good idea. Do you have any suggested candidate for it?¡±


    The question took Phil by surprise. He thought hard about it.


    Since the day Dexter asked him to give Josie a hand, he had guessed that something was going on


    between them.


    Dexter studied Phil¡¯s expression under the bright moonlight. ¡°Just tell me your thoughts. You don¡¯t have


    to have the same opinion as I do.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°¡­I think ire is quitepetent. Josie is brave and responsible. However, she only started to stand


    out recently. Compared to ire, she is less experienced and has poorer results. On the other hand,


    ire has secured many projects for Russell Group over these years and gotten a lot of awards. So I


    think ire is better than Josie.¡±


    Phil studied Dexter¡¯s face carefully as he spoke. He was afraid that his opinion would offend Dexter.


    Although Dexter was younger than Phil, he still made Phil feel oppressed.


    ¡°Then?¡±


    Phil did not understand. ¡°Then¡­ What?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s tone grew cold. ¡°You mentioned Josie¡¯s ws but didn¡¯t mention ire¡¯s.¡±


    Phil was stunned. Ivy, who had witnessed the whole thing all the while, spoke up for Phil, ¡°What Mr.


    Yves said is quite right. However, we cannot let an incident like Samantha¡¯s repeat. Moral values are


    important too.¡±


    Ivy nced at Dexter after she finished speaking. The man was staring far into the distance. He was


    still buried in his thoughts.


    Based on Ivy¡¯s understanding of Dexter, he kept a clear boundary between work and personal life.


    About thirty secondster, Dexter raised his head and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home. I¡¯ll think about it.¡±

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    Dexter¡¯s Porsche flew fast and smoothly.


    Phil¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat. ¡°Ms. Miller, did I say anything wrong just now?¡±


    Ivy crossed her arms in front of her. Her face was gloomy as she answered, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Just stick to


    your answer if Mr. Russell asks you the same question. He¡¯s always serious at work. He will not take it


    personally.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Phil still felt uneasy. ¡°But Josie and Mr. Russell, they seem¡­¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Ivy interrupted suddenly. ¡°Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t pick on people. He focuses on the matters itself.¡±


    She could pry into the truth and act as if nothing had happened. But it was different for others. She


    would not allow anyone else to know Jodie¡¯s rtionship with Dexter!


    ¡°Okay¡­¡±


    It was the weekend tomorrow. Jodie did not n to sleep early. She made supper with Julie to pass the


    time.


    Julie nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you are an expert in the kitchen. It looks delicious.¡±


    Josie nodded proudly, ¡°I grew up in a less fortunate family. I lived from hand to mouth, so I made my


    meals to save money. I learned how to cook in time.¡±


    Jenny never did any chores. Most of the time, it was Paul who cooked. But Josie did not want Paul to


    get too exhausted from both work and home, so she did most of the chores at home.


    Josie poured the drink she had made into a ss. She nced outside, but she did not see anyone.


    ¡°Julie, does Mr. Russell oftene back thiste?¡± She had never seen Dextere home early after


    staying at his ce for so long.


    ¡°Yeah. Mr. Russell is always busy with work. Sometimes, he only gets home in the early morning.


    Before you moved in, he would sleep in hotels whenever he got drunk outside.¡±


    This sounded weird to Josie, but she did not want to overthink it. She did not like to think after work.


    No wonder Dexter was so sessful. He worked very hard.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡± Julie nudged Josie and winked at her. ¡°You made so many delicious dishes tonight. You


    must have done all this for Mr. Russell, right?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ That¡¯s quite right¡­¡±


    Luckily it was Dexter, so she still had the chance to make it up and apologize to him. If it were any other


    men, they would have divorced her if they heard her say they were disabled!


    She recalled the look in Dexter¡¯s eyes back then¡­


    At this moment, Josie heard the car engine revving into the garden.


    Julie took the dessert and beverages and brought them out. ¡°Mr. Russell. You¡¯re back. Mrs. Russell


    made you these for supper.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s initially cold eyes sparkled with surprise. The dining table was full of exquisite food, and they


    smelled good.


    He raised his head and saw Josie running out of the kitchen while taking off her apron.


    ¡°You¡­ You¡¯re back.¡±


    Julie and the maids excused themselves, leaving Josie and Dexter alone.


    ¡°You made these?¡± Dexter was surprised.


    ¡°Yes, but Julie and the others gave me a hand. Would you like to try some? I made this strawberry


    cake, mango crepe, and chocte truffles. I promise they¡¯re better than the ones you buy outside!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t do desserts.¡±


    Josie was embarrassed.


    ¡°¡­ I didn¡¯t know. I wanted to show appreciation to you. That¡¯s why I made a table full of food for you.


    But you came homete, so I could only make you supper.¡± She lowered her head, wishing that there


    was a ce to hide.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Josie,¡± Dexter said in a low voice. He suddenly noticed how short she was. ¡°Are you trying to cheer me


    up?¡±


    Josie immediately raised her head and waved her hands vigorously. ¡°No, no. I¡¯m trying to make it up to


    you. I said some¡­ demeaning words about you just now. I hope you won¡¯t take it to heart. I will not do


    it again!¡±


    She did not look flirtatious at all. She just looked sincere in her apology!

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    She really cannot afford to lose her job!


    Dexter folded his arms in front of his chest. The look on his face was cold and aloof. ¡°I remember giving


    you information about myself when you moved in. It is stated that I don¡¯t take desserts. Don¡¯t you know


    how much trouble you¡¯d cause if this scene happened outside?¡±


    Josie lowered her head while she was being nagged. She had forgotten that only Henry knew that they


    were married.


    They seemed more like a superior and a subordinate now.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, the information¡­¡±


    ¡°You should spend more effort and time on your job.¡±


    Dexter interrupted her before she could finish. He walked past her and went upstairs. She could smell


    the stench of alcohol on him.


    Josie sat on the sofa, frustrated. She had lost her appetite.


    Was he implying that getting to know him was her job?


    Her efforts were taken for granted! Why would someone not love desserts? Life was already so


    stressful, and only sweets could make one feel better¡­


    ¡°Whatever. I¡¯ll eat it if you don¡¯t want to.¡± Josie murmured. She picked up the cake on the table and


    started digging into it. The sweetness of the cake dissolved in her mouth. However, she still felt


    irritated.


    Why did you have to be so mean? I was purely joking just now. Nobody knows you¡¯re my husband


    anyway!


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He wasn¡¯t like this at Russell Mansion yesterday.


    The tall man stood in the corridor on the second floor. He nced down and saw the little woman


    sitting on the sofa. Her cheeks moved as she ate.


    When she finally got tired from eating, she froze for a while. She seemed aggrieved and was trying to


    calm herself down.


    Dexter frowned hard. His heart sank.


    He did not intend to speak so harshly to her. But he had to. He wanted her to work harder so that she


    could be the director of the design department.


    Then he wouldn¡¯t need to worry about her that much.


    Josie seemed to feel his stare. She turned around and looked in Dexter¡¯s direction. There was still


    cream on the side of her mouth. Dexter took a step backward and hid in the dark.


    Josie did not see anyone. She thought she was mistaken, so she got up and cleared the table. She


    needed to refresh herself to feel better.


    The next day.


    It was the weekend, but Josie had gotten up early for a part-time job at the mall. She was working as


    an actor in an escape room. They paid her two hundred a day.


    She didn¡¯t go for her part-time jobst week because of Dexter. When she was finally done with her


    ghost makeup, her phone rang. It was a call from the hospital. It startled Josie, but she quickly


    answered it. ¡°Hello, Dr. Sander? Is everything well with my dad?¡±


    It was noisy at the other end of the phone. Matthew hesitated a while before answering Josie. ¡°Jo, you


    shoulde to the hospital.¡±


    Jenny was at the hospital.


    She could not reach Josie these few days. She had guessed that Josie woulde to visit Paul at the


    hospital on weekends, so she was waiting there. However, she was surprised that the hospital did not


    ask her for any payment when she arrived. In addition, Paul was transferred to the VIP suite!


    The nurse spoke gently, ¡°Your child paid two hundred thousand for the medical bills.¡±


    Jenny was infuriated immediately.


    It turned out that Josie had money. She just didn¡¯t want to give her any!


    Jenny quickly pestered the nurse to return the bnce of the medical bill. She told the nurse that there


    was an emergency at home and she needed the money.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t return me the bnce, I will sit here and wait! I will not leave!¡±


    The huge fuss she caused attracted many people. Matthew heard themotion from his room, so he


    walked out to see what was happening. It was then he saw Jenny on the floor, demanding money.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    Josie rushed to the hospital as fast as she could, attracting a lot of curious stares.


    ¡°Dr. Sander! She pushed through the crowd and grabbed Matthew¡¯s arm. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Matthews raised his eyebrows gently and traced his finger along her face. ¡°Your makeup¡­¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Josie looked embarrassed, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was in such a hurry that I didn¡¯t have time to remove it. Where


    is she?¡±


    ¡°The security just brought her away. Don¡¯t worry. I didn¡¯t return her the bnce.¡±


    Josie was relieved to hear that. She patted her chest. ¡°Great. Thank you so much.¡±


    ¡°My stepmother¡­ is a little blinded by money. I¡¯m really sorry for causing the hospital trouble. Sorry.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize for that. Although I¡¯m not your father¡¯s doctor now, I know you and your


    family well. You don¡¯t have to feel embarrassed in front of me.¡±


    Matthew patted her shoulder gently.


    At that moment, Josie sat on the chair along the corridor. She spoke to Matthew gratefully. ¡°Luckily, you


    were here today. No, luckily, you were here all these years. I love listening to you. You have always


    given me strength, unlike some other people¡­¡±


    Mathew smiled as he looked at Josie. She still looked cute to him, although she was wearing a ghost¡¯s


    makeup.


    ¡°Well, do you want to go see your stepmother?¡±


    Josie got up from her chair, exhausted. After taking a few steps, she realized that Matthew was


    following her.


    ¡°Dr. Sander, are you not at work?¡±


    ¡°I changed my slots with a colleague before you arrived. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Josie felt relieved to have a man apany her. She was grateful to Matthew.


    At this moment, Jenny was being scolded by security in the surveince room. ¡°Do you think that the


    hospital is your home? That you can do whatever you want here?¡±


    Jenny raised her head and saw two people walking into the room. She quickly shouted out loud,


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    ¡°Sir, this is my daughter. Please let me go!¡±


    The security turned around and saw a woman in weird makeup. ¡°Are you her daughter?¡±


    ¡°Stepdaughter.¡± Josie corrected him.


    ¡°Well, even if you were adopted, I took care of you all these years. You ungrateful wrench! How could


    you tell us you have no money for your brother¡¯s wedding when you can pay two hundred thousand for


    this dying man? If I knew you would be so ungrateful, I would have starved you to death back then!¡±


    Josie watched the woman go crazy.


    She remembered Paul telling her that it was an arranged marriage. But how could there be no feelings


    between them after having been married for so many years? Jenny even thought of giving up her


    husband¡¯s life so that her son could get married.


    Such cruelty.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Josie shouted. ¡°Let me tell you the truth. That two hundred thousand does not belong to me.


    I do not have any money. I only have my life if you want it.¡±


    Jenny suddenly became anxious. She quickly rushed up to Josie and scratched her face. ¡°Whose


    money is it if not yours? Oh, is it the doctor¡¯s? Did you marry him so he could support your father¡¯s


    medical bills? Did you sleep with him to save that dying man?¡±


    ¡®p!¡¯


    The p was so hard Jenny¡¯s face turned to one side. She held her cheek in her hand and gaped at


    the man in the white robe beside Josie with disbelief.


    Josie was shocked too. She had known Matthew to be the gentlest man on Earth. He had never hit


    anyone before.


    ¡°Dr. Sander¡­¡±


    ¡°How dare you hit me!¡±


    ¡°The p was for Josie. I did it since she did not dare to. You can call the police to report me. Let¡¯s see


    if the police will charge you for false usations!¡±


    Jenny widened her eyes. She was at a loss for words.


    Josie felt so much better. Her lips curled up into a smile as she added, ¡°Do you want to continue to stay


    here, or do you want to stay at the station? You choose.¡±

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    Jenny did not want to have any criminal records, so she left, sneering, ¡°Well, you wait!¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much for today, Dr. Sander. I wouldn¡¯t know what to do if it wasn¡¯t for you. I¡¯ve tried all


    the tricks I know to deal with her, but they were all ineffective. Turns out that hitting her works the best.¡±


    Josie thanked Matthew earnestly.


    Matthew smiled. ¡°Well, do you n to thank me just like that? Or will you show me how grateful you


    are?¡±


    Josie looked at the time. Her eyes sparkled as she said, ¡°Why not I treat you to lunch? You do not have


    a shift now anyway, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great. But your makeup¡­¡±


    Only then Josie remembered her ghost makeup. She cursed under her breath and rushed to the


    nearest restroom. ¡°Wait a moment, Dr. Sander!¡±


    Matthew¡¯s eyes twinkled as he smiled.


    Well, I will for however long she wants.


    In the Italian restaurant.


    The chili mussels were so spicy that Josie could not even close her mouth. She raised her ss and


    had a toast with Matthew.


    ¡°Do you know how good it felt when you hit her? I have wanted to p her over the past ten years, but I


    never dared to. You helped me achieve my dreams.¡±


    Matthew put his hands on the table and smiled, ¡°I cannot imagine you being in that hell for ten years.


    I¡¯m more than happy to help you achieve your dream.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sigh¡­ Finally, something good happened.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is everything alright?¡±


    Josie opened her mouth to speak, but no words could describe what she was going through. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s


    all just work.¡±


    Matthew caught a glimpse of her frustration. He pursed his lips. ¡°Is it rted to your father¡¯s two


    hundred thousand?¡±


    It was quite a general question. Josie answered naturally, ¡°Yeah. Money is difficult toe by.¡±


    When she saw Matthew staring at her earnestly, she could not hold it back anymore. ¡°Dr. Sander, can


    you lend me your ears for a while?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Okay then¡­ I shall tell you the truth. I got married because of the two hundred thousand and the


    medical team. Does this sound ridiculous? I sold myself for all that.¡± Josie smiled bitterly.


    Matthew was surprised. He frowned and shook his head. ¡°You got married for that?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I had no other choice. But don¡¯t worry; I¡¯m not selling my body. It¡¯s just legal documentation, and I


    only have to act as his wife!¡±


    Matthew¡¯s smile grew wider when he saw her exining nervously. He could finally feel some weight


    off his shoulders.


    ¡°I believe you.¡±


    ¡°Great! I finally have someone who understands me. But Dr. Sander, do you think that I am¡­ Cheap?¡±


    Josie always felt cheap when Dexter looked at her.


    ¡°Of course not, Jo. Everyone has their difficult times. It is okay to be like that temporarily. You just have


    to remember to get back to your feet as soon as possible because this marriage is not good.¡±


    Josie nodded frantically. ¡°I know. Well, I shall treat you to another meal when I get a divorce then!¡±


    ¡°I shall treat you to a meal when that timees.¡± Matthew poured her some wine as he looked at the


    girl¡¯s bright, cheerful eyes.


    ¡°Sure!¡±


    Josie did not know that Matthew wasn¡¯t finished with his sentence.


    I will confess my love to you then.


    ¡°What is the man you got married to like?¡±


    Josie replied almost immediately. ¡°Cold, ruthless, domineering, illogical, arrogant, and mean.¡± She


    would use all the negative adjectives she knew to describe Dexter if she could!

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42


    After their meal, Josie and Matthew walked out of the restaurant. They were in an affluent business


    district.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got to go back to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°What a shame. Does someone have to do double shifts this weekend?¡± Josie teased.


    Matthew pinched her nose in retaliation and said, ¡°Is someone nning to ditch their part-time job and


    find another one?¡±


    ¡°Dr. Sander, you hurt me.¡± Josie pouted.


    Dexter was walking out of a Japanese restaurant from the shopping mall across from the pair. He was


    greeted with such a scene when he raised his eyes.


    I can¡¯t believe Josie is flirting with some other guy in front of me!


    ¡°Mr. Russell, it was nice talking business with you. I will increase the work progress when I get back.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s business partner said while reaching his hand out for a shake.


    Dexter recollected himself and shook his hand briefly, ¡°I look forward to our partnership.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got another thing to get to. If everything is settled, I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    ¡°Please.¡±


    Dexter watched as the man left. When he turned back to the pair, the man was gone. Josie stood by


    herself. She seemed uneager to leave.


    After Matthew left, Josie was about to walk in the opposite direction but stopped. She thought she saw


    a familiar shadow just then. She cocked her head to the side curiously and saw Dexter standing in front


    of the Japanese restaurant opposite her. He stood tall and had a good figure. He wasn¡¯t wearing a suit


    today and had on a in white POLO shirt and ck cks. Although dressed casually, he gave off a


    luxurious air and attracted the attention of the people around him.


    Why is he here?!


    Before Josie could react, Dexter was already walking to her with his imposing aura.


    Josie forced a smile as she thought aboutst night¡¯s situation, ¡°Hi, Mr. Russell. What a coincidence! I


    didn¡¯t expect to see you here. Did you have a good lunch?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you impressive. I was wondering how you recovered so quick. Who knew it was because you


    had a date.¡±


    Josie did not understand what he meant by her recovering quickly.


    ¡°What date? Matthew is my friend! Does it matter to you if I have lunch with my friends? I don¡¯t think


    that¡¯s in the contract, Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Friend? I didn¡¯t realize you were so open that you¡¯d let a male friend pinch your nose.¡± Dexter raised


    his voice slightly.


    Josie understood what he meant by that. She scoffed and rebutted, ¡°In France, people greet with


    kisses to the cheek. We¡¯re living in the twenty-first century. I didn¡¯t know you were so conservative, Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    Josie¡¯s words made Dexter choke on his saliva. When he cleared his throat, Josie was already on the


    esctor going down. He hurried behind her.


    ¡°Josie, stay away from that guy.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie stuffed her fingers into her ears.


    Dexter pulled her hands away and said, ¡°Did you hear me?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± She asked with bright eyes.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t have good intentions.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°He just doesn¡¯t! Anyways, don¡¯t get close to other guys in public. You¡¯re only going to bring me more


    trouble!¡± Dexter said as he averted his eyes sheepishly.


    Josie did not want to listen to him. She was still mad about yesterday, ¡°I knew Matthew before I even


    met you. Mr. Russell, don¡¯t you think asking me not to meet my friend is too much?¡±


    ¡°Friend? Josie, you¡¯re being too na?ve.¡± Dexter tossed her hand away.


    Men know men the best. She¡¯s such an idiot not to be able to see the way Matthew Sander leers at her.


    ¡°You¡¯re so weird, Dexter Russell!¡± Josie burst out as she couldn¡¯t stand his attitude toward her.

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    Dexter shook himself out of his daze and grabbed Josie¡¯s hand before she could leave, ¡°Follow me.¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡±


    Dexter had long legs and walked fast. Josie could only quicken her steps into a light job as he pulled


    her along.


    ¡°Dexter! Dexter! Why do I have to follow you home? It¡¯s the weekend! I have things to do!¡± She shouted


    at him as she covered her face.


    Dexter¡¯s Porsche was parked in front of the shopping mall. He opened the door, tossed her in, then


    quickly got into the driver¡¯s seat and put his seatbelt on.


    ¡°Sit tight.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter navigated his way through traffic at high speed. Josie clutched her seatbelt tightly. She nced


    at the rearview mirror and saw the cars far behind them.


    It would cause them a lot topensate for damages to a Porsche 911.


    ¡°What did you have with that doctor?¡±


    Josie was stumped for a moment before replying, ¡°I¡­ Italian. Why?¡±


    Dexter clenched his teeth together but did not reply to her.


    ¡°What are you doing, Dexter? I agreed to work with you, but you didn¡¯t say I have to spend my


    weekends with you, too. You can¡¯t just create uses¡­¡±


    Josie was met with silence. She was going crazy with all the anxiety inside of her.


    When she thought about him reproaching her for having lunch with Matthew, she continued angrily,


    ¡°I¡¯ve been running errands the whole day. I haven¡¯t even found a new part-time job after running away


    from my previous one. I¡¯m wasting my precious time being here with you when I can be earning


    money!¡±


    ¡°What part-time job?¡± Dexter slightly released his foot off the elerator. He didn¡¯t think this woman


    would have a part-time job to attend to on the weekends.


    ¡°Do you not understand? It¡¯s as I said. A! Part! Time! Job!¡±


    Dexter turned the steering wheel and said, ¡°If I remember correctly, you have an ie of over ten


    thousand a month. Why do you need to work part-time if you¡¯ve already settled your parents¡¯ medical


    bills?¡±


    Josie red at him from the side of her eye and rebutted. ¡°You¡¯re wrong. Although I have some


    savings, one should always prepare for a rainy day. What if, one day, you leave me to fend for myself?


    Women have to be independent; we can¡¯t always rely on other people. Of course, I¡¯m relying on you


    now, but that¡¯s because I have no choice. Also, you don¡¯t know Mr. Russell, but intion is happening!


    The things you use at home are getting more and more expensive!¡±


    She spoke without taking any breaks, and her expression was self-righteous.


    Dexter did not say anything but suddenly stopped the car and caused Josie¡¯s shoulder to hurt from


    being pushed into the seatbelt. She looked around to see they had arrived at a luxurious market.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going home? What are we doing here?¡±


    Dexter unbuckled his seatbelt with a click.


    ¡°Today, I¡¯ll let you be in charge.¡±


    The target demographic of this supermarket was the rich. Even something simple would cause


    hundreds. Dexter was a member, and whenever they needed groceries, he would get Ivy to buy them.


    He had never been here, but Josie had. She knew the prices on the items here were not for the faint-


    hearted.


    She nced at the man pushing the cart and whispered, ¡°Oil and salt might have gone up in price, but


    the prices here are ridiculous! Let¡¯s go to a neighborhood supermarket if you want to y house. You


    can spend as much as you want there.¡±


    Dexter ced his hand on her head and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were going to cook for mest night?


    This is your chance to show me what you got.¡±

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    Cook for him? I can¡¯t believe he remembered.


    ¡°Wait a minute,¡± Josie rummaged in her bag before grabbing a piece of paper. She quickly scanned


    through it.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking at your dietary requirements; what you like and do not like to eat!¡± Dexter had given her


    that piece of paper, and she had carried it with her since being reprimanded yesterday.


    Dexter was stunned.


    Josie shook her head as she looked through the list.


    I can¡¯t believe this guy. He is so boring; he doesn¡¯t eat sweets, and there¡¯re so few things he likes to


    eat. It¡¯s like food is just a means of survival to him.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    ¡°I feel sorry for you.¡± She looked at him pitifully.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like Italian? Let¡¯s have this,¡± Dexter said coolly as he grabbed a jar of spicy arrabbiata sauce


    from the shelf.


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up, and she teased, ¡°So, you like spicy food? Why didn¡¯t you say? I¡¯m a pro at that.¡±


    Dexter had no time to retaliate as Josie sped off to grab some ingredients. She did not stop to choose


    her groceries. Soon, the cart was full of food.


    ¡°Julie will probably think we¡¯re feeding a zoo,¡± Dexter said with a raised eyebrow.


    Josie reached for an eggnt impulsively and said, ¡°If you say anything else, I¡¯m going to force you to


    eat ratatouille.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyebrows disappeared into his hairline as he avoided looking at the eggnt.


    Josie burst out inughter, ¡°Oh my gosh! I can¡¯t believe the mighty Mr. Russell is scared of an


    eggnt.¡±


    She wasughing so loudly that she garnered the attention of passersby.


    Dexter felt embarrassed standing next to her. He quickly sped his hand over her mouth and


    whispered into her ear, ¡°Stopughing!¡±


    Josie shuddered in his hold. She was distracted by the feel of his hand on her mouth. It was sensitive


    and hot.


    Dexter quickly released her when he felt her warm breaths on his palm. However, Josie seemed


    unbothered as she raced for the ice cream section.


    She loved desserts, but it was too expensive. After long contemtion, she decided not to get any.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go pay.¡± She forced a smile.


    Dexter had been watching her, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you getting any?¡±


    Josie sighed and said impatiently, ¡°It¡¯s too expensive. I¡¯ll get it when I strike the lottery!¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Josie had shopped here before. Back then, she was too stressed from work and wanted to get a tub of


    ice cream tofort herself, but it was too expensive, so she had never gotten it. She needed to look


    after herself and her father; she couldn¡¯t buy things impulsively.


    Dexter frowned and then opened the freezer door. He took out the tub of ice cream she had been


    looking at.


    It cost two hundred and eighty.


    He paused for a moment and then put five tubs into the cart.


    ¡°I¡¯m paying.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t reject.


    Josie jumped and tried to stop him, ¡°No, I can¡¯t. I know you feel sorry for me, but I don¡¯t need these. I


    want to buy it with my own money and not your pity money.¡±


    Dexter looked at the hand holding her wrist. Her hand was so small she couldn¡¯t even wrap around his


    wrist fully.


    He waited until she said her bit before replying, ¡°There are five vors here. I¡¯m going to put it in my


    freezer. I¡¯ll reward you with a tub whenever you do something that benefits Russell Group. That


    includes winning a designpetition award or getting a partnership agreement.¡±


    Josie looked at him questioningly. He¡¯s trying to control my work.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I have got to say, you know how to incentivize your employees.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t do this for everyone.¡±

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    It was evening when they walked out of the supermarket. The sunset cast a pink glow over the city,


    giving it a warm and inviting atmosphere.


    Josie had her back toward the light. She couldn¡¯t see Dexter¡¯s face clearly, but the sunset colored his


    hair golden. He was systematically putting the groceries they had bought into the trunk. Josie felt an


    indescribable feeling within her; her heart started to race. It was undeniable Dexter was a sensible and


    mature man. There weren¡¯t many men like him, even less those that stood at the top of the food chain.


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe she had bagged this man as her husband.


    Albeit¡­ only in name.


    ¡°Get in. What are you doing?¡± Dexter tapped the underside of her head.


    Josie wanted to ask him if he had ever dated before or if he had ever liked someone, but she stopped


    herself. Because she knew Dexter probably wouldn¡¯t answer, and even if he did, it probably would not


    satisfy her curiosity.


    When they returned to Mason Garden, Julie jumped when she saw how many groceries they had


    bought.


    Josie was quick on her feet. She started to busy herself the moment she entered the house while


    Dexter sent some emails from the couch in the living room. He would asionally nce toward the


    kitchen. It was his first time seeing a woman donning an apron and cooking for him.


    A delicious aroma wafted from the kitchen shortly after, and Josie came out with some dishes.


    ¡°Time to eat,¡± she called out.


    Thest time someone besides a servant had called him for a meal was fifteen years ago.


    Fifteen years have gone by in a blink¡­


    There were several Italian dishes on the table. When Julie saw the spicy arrabbiata pasta, she


    commented worriedly, ¡°Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t really eat food with strong vors. How about I make a


    couple of light dishes?¡±


    Josie took off her apron and stopped her, ¡°No, he requested this, and I spent so much time on it. You


    don¡¯t have to worry, Ms. Carroll.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I can eat it.¡± Dexter unbuttoned the cuffs on his sleeves and rolled them up.


    He could eat spicy food, but it had been a while.


    Josie wasn¡¯t as good at eating spicy as he was. Ten minutester, she was downing sses of milk,


    but besides a hint of red on Dexter¡¯s lips, he showed no reaction.


    ¡°It¡¯s not bad.¡±


    Josie was clenching her teeth from the spice.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, most people in Wavery can¡¯t stand spicy food. I didn¡¯t expect you to take it so well.¡±


    Dexter paused and said, ¡°I had a friend who liked to eat spicy food. But my friend wasn¡¯t good at eating


    it. We often went to eat together, so I got used to it.¡±


    ¡°Was your friend male or female?¡± Josie asked.


    ¡°Female,¡± Dexter replied hesitantly.


    Josie¡¯s hand loosened, and her face almost hit the table. She looked at Dexter warily.


    I didn¡¯t think he would have female friends.


    ¡°Where is she now?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s gone.¡± Dexter¡¯s image of his friend and Josie¡¯s face merged into one.


    The air grew thick, and Josie felt stupid for asking.


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    ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t know¡­¡±


    Dexter averted his gaze. His eyes were filled with sorrow.


    ¡°She¡¯s not dead. I just can¡¯t find her.¡±


    Can¡¯t find her¡­ Josie felt as though she had swallowed a rock. She didn¡¯t dare to ask anymore. She


    could tell from Dexter¡¯s tone that he did not want to talk about it.


    Dexter broke the silence by picking up his fork and asking, ¡°Why did you quit your job and have lunch


    with that doctor today?¡±

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Josie felt annoyed as soon as the topic was brought up.


    She held her face with both hands. He knew about her anyway. Perhaps she could just tell him about


    everything that happened today.


    Dexter raised his brows confidently, ¡°It seems rted to me.¡±


    ¡°Rted to you?¡± She barely mentioned him.


    ¡°The two hundred thousand.¡±


    Josie was speechless.


    Dexter dipped his finger in water and drew an arrow on the table when he saw her in confusion.


    ¡°Russell Group was supposed to work with Lagoon Capital to expand its business territoryst year.


    But the proposal got rejected as soon as it was sent out. It turned out that Lagoon Capital¡¯s project


    manager had nned to use this project to get a better job with a differentpany. I sent evidence of


    his romance scandals to his wife after discovering it. As expected, his wife created a stir at Lagoon


    Capital. It affected him terribly.¡±


    ¡°He was sacked from Lagoon Capital immediately, and a new project manager took over. From that day


    onwards, we sessfully coborated till today.¡±


    Dexter drew another line from the arrowhead again.


    ¡°Sum up this matter.¡±


    He crossed his arms in front of his chest. He looked incredibly like a leader quizzing his subordinate.


    Josie became nervous. ¡°The conclusion is¡­ The conclusion is if his wife hadn¡¯t made a ruckus, Russell


    Group would have never managed to coborate with Lagoon Capital.¡±


    ¡°Smart.¡± Dexter smiled. ¡°We must be flexible. If we cannot change someone, we can try tackling the


    people around him.¡±


    He got up and went upstairs as soon as he finished speaking. He left Josie sitting in her ce in a


    daze.


    Dexter was giving her a tip. But how was she going to tackle the people around Jenny? She had never


    liked Jenny, nor knew the people around her, except for Justin¡­ But he was exactly like his mother!


    The next day.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was at her workstation. While resting, she logged into her Twitter ount and found Justin¡¯s


    ount. She read every single post of his.


    Alice passed by her and peeked at Josie¡¯s phone. ¡°Who is that? Why are you stalking people?¡±


    ¡°My younger brother.¡±


    ¡°What? Are you stalking your younger brother? You are crazy, Josie. Why do you even need to check


    who liked his posts?¡± Alice was shocked.


    Josie waved her hand and continued to scroll through Justin¡¯s posts. ¡°Stop making a fuss. I¡¯m doing


    something important.¡±


    Soon, she clicked into an ount and eximed excitedly, ¡°I found it!¡±


    It was a woman¡¯s Twitter ount. She had a selfie attached to all her posts. Josie knew who it was¡ª


    her younger brother¡¯s girlfriend!


    ¡°Who is that?¡±


    ¡°My younger brother¡¯s girlfriend. I searched his friend list but couldn¡¯t find her. After checking the likes


    of all his posts, I finally found her in a post in April.¡± Josie exined proudly.


    ¡°Amazing work¡­ What a pity you aren¡¯t a reporter.¡± Alice did not understand why Josie needed to do


    so. She returned to her workstation.


    Josie started tapping on her keyboard. She sent a private message to that ount: ¡®Hello, I¡¯m Justin¡¯s


    sister. I need to talk to you. Can we meet?¡¯


    Her name was Nicole. She had been dating Justin for three years. As their rtionship was rtively


    stable, they nned to get married.


    Nicole updated her ount daily, so she was likely to see Josie¡¯s message soon.


    As expected, Nicole replied to Josie¡¯s message as soon as she finished work: ¡®Are you Josie? But I am


    doing overtime today. I¡¯ll visit you another day.¡¯


    ¡®I can go look for you at work today!¡¯ Josie quickly responded.


    She could not wait any longer.

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    The ce Nicole worked was quite far from Russell Group. After more than an hour on the bus, Josie


    finally arrived at her destination. It was already dark, and many people were already having their


    dinner.


    Nicole and Justin graduated from the same university. But because her results were not good enough,


    her job wasn¡¯t very favorable. She worked as a property agent at a property agency.


    Josie waited at the caf¨¦ below Nicole¡¯s workce for an hour. Her hot coffee hadpletely cooled


    down when she saw Nicoleing with her bag on her back.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry to keep you waiting. I should have gone to visit you instead, but I was too busy. I just


    came back from a house tour with a client¡­¡± Nicole said apologetically.


    She was quite pretty, but long hours of work had drowned her in fatigue. She was not in a fair condition.


    Josie gestured at her to take a seat. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I work overtime often too. I understand.¡±


    Nicole looked a little embarrassed as she continued, ¡°May I know¡­ What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Right. I heard that you are getting married to Justin soon.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ That¡¯s why I¡¯m working so hard,¡± Nicole replied shyly.


    Josie could tell that Nicole was a down-to-earth person. She was a good girl. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind me


    being straight with you because Justin and I are not biological siblings.¡±


    Nicole nodded quickly. ¡°I know. Justin told me.¡±


    ¡°Then I shall get straight to the point. His mother is going around collecting money for your marriage


    with Justin. She even wants to cut off his father¡¯s medical expenses for it. I wouldn¡¯t havee to you


    if things were not so serious.¡±


    ¡°Ever since our father fell sick, I have supported his medical expenses. Justin and his mother have


    never paid a single penny. That indicates that his mother has no money at all for your marriage. There


    are many ways one can have money if one is willing to work hard for it. Cutting off medical expenses is


    not a resort.¡±


    Josie had made it extremely clear to Nicole. She hoped that Nicole understood her meaning.


    The Warren family was burning hell. She shouldn¡¯t jump into it.


    Nicole pursed her lips. Her face darkened. ¡°Josie, I do know a little about this. But I can¡¯t do much


    because I¡¯m not in the position to do so¡­ However, I believe everything will be better if I work hard


    after we get married.¡±


    Josie understood now. Nicole loved Justin. Josie frowned and decided to reveal to Nicole how terrible


    the situation was. ¡°Ms. Hart, do you know that Justin is in debt?¡±


    Nicole was stunned. She obviously didn¡¯t know.


    ¡°He only told me that his family didn¡¯t have much money, and we had to start from scratch.¡±


    Josie snorted helplessly. She took a credit report from her bag and handed it to Nicole.


    ¡°This is Justin¡¯s current financial situation. He has been gambling for the past few years. He is jobless


    and is living on loans. He lost a lot and could not pay his debts. He is now a disreputable person. He


    can¡¯t take trains or nes. Do you know about this?¡±


    Josie used to wonder why Justin was keen on cutting off his father¡¯s medical expenses until she saw


    his phone and discovered that he owed a lot of money.


    Only a gambler would scorn family ties.


    Nicole¡¯s hand trembled as she held the report. She didn¡¯t know anything about this. It must have hit her


    hard.


    ¡°Justin owes approximately a few hundred thousand. If you marry him, Ms. Hart, with your monthly


    sry of ten thousand, how many years will it take for you to help him pay off his debts?¡±

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    Josie could not bear to break the girl¡¯s heart. But this rtionship was just an unrealistic rosy view.


    Josie must stop Jenny¡¯s greed and save this girl from jumping into these fires of hell.


    ¡°Justin has not stopped. He is still gambling. Deceitful people like him have no limits. It will ruin your


    whole life if you stay with him. I hope you will reconsider your decision carefully.¡±


    Nicole closed her eyes. Her shoulders shook as she started crying.


    It was worse than a nightmare.


    ¡°You are a good girl. You shouldn¡¯t be undermined by Justin. You can look for abetter man to love. As a


    woman, I¡¯d advise you to call off the engagement.¡±


    Josie patted Nicole¡¯s shoulder. Nicole could no longer hold herself back. She buried her head into


    Josie¡¯s arms and cried, ¡°I¡¯ve never thought he would be like that. I thought¡­ I thought¡­ He was


    sincere toward me!¡±


    ¡°He just wants to trick you into paying his debts with him and suffer!¡±


    Josie patted her head and said, ¡°Nowadays, any rtionship without financial support will fail easily.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Nicole said nothing and continued wailing.


    After about half an hour, Nicole finally calmed down. She promised Josie that she would reconsider her


    rtionship with Justin.


    When they exited the caf¨¦, it was already past ten. Josie did not have dinner, but she was no longer


    hungry.


    The buses had stopped, so Josie had no choice but to get a cab back to Mason Garden. She could not


    help but curse Justin under her breath. How are you going to repay me?


    It was a long journey. Just as Josie started feeling sleepy on the way, her phone started vibrating. Her


    phone showed: That man.


    ¡°Hello¡­¡± Her voice was still drowsy as she answered the phone.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± After a moment of silence, the man¡¯s voice was heard. He sounded a little angry.


    When Josie heard his voice, she immediately regained consciousness.


    ¡°Mr., Mr. Russell! I¡­ I¡¯m on the way back. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°What time is it now?¡±


    Josie nced at her phone and answered, ¡°¡­Ten fifty-eight.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t reach home within ten minutes, you don¡¯t have toe back anymore.¡±


    Dexter was furious. He sat on the sofa in Mason Garden with a dark face.


    He had finished work early today. He thought he would see that woman as soon as he reached home,


    but he didn¡¯t. ording to Julie, Josie had called and informed that she would be homete.


    It waste into midnight.


    Dexter did not know why he was still waiting. He had nned to go to rest already, but he could not fall


    asleep. He kept walking out of his room to check with the maids if Josie had returned.


    ¡°Not yet¡­ Mr. Russell.¡±


    The maid¡¯s fear grew every time he asked them about Josie.


    Dexter checked the duty roster for the design department that day. Josie did not have any


    appointments outside. Her colleagues said that she had left as soon as it was time.


    What was she doing alone outside sote? The thought of when Mr. Davidson made Josie drunk


    caused him to shudder.


    He was so anxious that he couldn¡¯t help calling Josie.


    Soon, the sound of footsteps was heard from outside. Josie opened the door and walked in. She saw


    Dexter waiting for her on the sofa as soon as she raised her eyes. He looked cold.


    When she saw him staring at her, she put on an innocent look and raised her phone. ¡°Mr. Russell, eight


    minutes. I¡¯m on time.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Where did you go?¡±


    ¡°I went to practice the skill you taught me.¡± Josie did not realize how serious this matter was to Dexter.


    She put down her bag happily and ran to him. She wanted to tell him about what had happened today.

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    However, just as she was about to approach Dexter, she stopped suddenly because the expression on


    the man¡¯s face had turned ugly.


    Josie finally realized that something was wrong. She turned around and beckoned at the maid behind


    her, asking silently: What¡¯s wrong with him? The maid shook her head. She looked afraid as if she was


    not allowed to answer that question.


    Josie had no choice but to muster her courage and step forward. She asked carefully, ¡°Mr. Russell, did


    I upset you again?¡±


    She suddenly felt as if she was trying to tame a tiger.


    Dexter was difficult to tame. The look on his face terrified people.


    ¡°Go on. Tell me. What were you doing outside sote? Did you go on a date with Dr. Sander again?¡±


    The sarcasm in his words and mockery in his eyes ruined Josie¡¯s good mood. She demanded angrily,


    ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯ve told you that Dr. Sander and I are only friends. You make it sound as if I have


    a scandal with him.¡±


    Dexter red at her. ¡°Am I wrong?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Rascal.¡± Josie could not help but curse under her breath.


    She had not had dinner yet, and it was a long journey home. Her mood was not good, and she was


    ridiculed as soon as she got home. She almost lost her temper. She stood there for a long time and


    dared not approach Dexter anymore.


    ¡°¡­ I thought you would understand, but it was just a fantasy of mine.¡±


    After that, Josie turned around to head upstairs.


    Dexter got up suddenly and grabbed her wrist. Anger was written on his face as he said, ¡°Ady should


    never return home sote no matter what happens! How dare you curse me, Josie! What made you so


    bold?¡±


    Josie pushed the man¡¯s hand away. The anger she had been suppressing all night surfaced.


    ¡°I forgot to tell you I¡¯m not a good girl. Even my parents do not care what time I get home. Who are you,


    Mr. Russell, to control me? Even if I work for you, I have the freedom to choose how I spend my time


    after work! You are inexplicable!¡±


    Josie was used to having freedom since she was young. No one in the Warren family cared about her.


    Her father used to care for her, but ever since he fell ill and stopped doing so, Dexter was the first


    person who tried to restrict her from returning homete.


    The woman¡¯s fierce look made her look like a little hedgehog.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    That sentence, ¡°Who are you to control me?¡± humored Dexter. ¡°Have you forgotten that you are still


    mine even after work? You are my wife. Who has the right to control you if not me?¡±


    This sentence sounded like ¡°You have no freedom¡± to Josie. It angered her more. ¡°Should I continue


    my act even when I¡¯m asleep? You are such a capitalist! You are practicing monopolistic ownership!¡±


    Dexter was at a loss for words. He raised a finger and pointed into the air. With a cold tone, he said,


    ¡°Don¡¯t take my kindness for granted. You are not as important as you think.¡±


    He stormed upstairs furiously after he finished speaking.


    Who should be the one losing their temper now? Josie pushed her hair to the back and told the maid,


    ¡°Hurry, pour me a ss of water. I can feel the fire in my head right now. It¡¯s burning me to death.¡±


    The maid quickly passed her a ss of water.


    ¡°Madam, I¡¯ve stayed here for a long time. You are the first person I met who dares to argue with Mr.


    Russell.¡± She gave Josie a thumbs-up as she looked at Josie in awe.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to argue with him. Didn¡¯t you hear what he said? He¡¯s too domineering! What a bad


    temper he has!¡±

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    The more Josie talked about it, the angrier she became. Even after gulping the ss of water down, it


    didn¡¯t appease her.


    When the maid heard that, she shook her head. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell cares about you immensely.


    Perhaps his choice of words wasn¡¯t appropriate, but¡­¡± She was unsure what words to use, so she cut


    to the chase. ¡°When he¡¯s not working, he always sleeps early. But tonight, he hasn¡¯t rested at all. He


    asked me a few times whether or not you were back. I can tell that he¡¯s worried about you.¡±


    Josie froze after hearing that. She recalled his solemn tone when he called her just now and how he


    reacted. Well, it¡¯s definitely weird.


    ¡°He¡­ waited for me the entire night?¡±


    The maid nodded. ¡°Yeah. Julia also saw that. Mr. Russell was worried about you, so¡­ what you said


    just now was quite harsh.¡±


    He¡¯s worried about me, but why?


    ¡°No matter what, he¡­ shouldn¡¯t have said that¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because he loves you too much.¡±


    Goosebumps immediately appeared on her arms after hearing that. That¡¯s not the case at all. How is it


    possible that he loves me?


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    She shook her head to clear her mind.


    ¡°Of course not. He¡¯s just worried that I might create trouble for him. I know he wants to maximize my


    value here.¡±


    With that, she felt much better. That¡¯s right. He¡¯s a capitalist. He loves me too much? Gah! That¡¯s


    wishful thinking!


    ¡°Mrs. Russell¨C¡±


    ¡°Alright, is there any food in the kitchen? I¡¯m starving.¡±


    The following day, Josie caught herself thinking about the maid¡¯s words the night before and wondered


    if she had overreacted.


    Because of that, she didn¡¯t sleep well; her entire body hurt when she woke up.


    She stopped when she passed by Dexter¡¯s room. Suddenly, the door opened, and he appeared in front


    of her with water droplets on his face ¨C he had just taken a shower.


    He was surprised to see her, but he soon pursed his lips. It was apparent that his anger hadn¡¯t abated.


    Startled by him, Josie fumbled awkwardly for half a minute before saying, ¡°Er¡­ I went to look for my


    brother¡¯s girlfriend. Her workce is quite far from here ¨C I paid two hundred to get there! That was


    why I came homete yesterday.¡±


    Initially, she didn¡¯t want to exin to him, but she started speaking without realizing it.


    Surprise flitted across Dexter¡¯s eyes. It was out of his expectations that she exined the situation to


    him. It¡¯s good that she doesn¡¯t hold grudges.


    He curled his lips and remarked sarcastically, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you could speak.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I got mad after hearing you use me of cheating with Matthew. You started it first.¡±


    She could smell his scent strongly after the shower, so she didn¡¯t dare to look at him.


    He was too good-looking that she was worried about blushing and embarrassing herself.


    At that point, Dexter¡¯s fury had ceased. ¡°No matter what happens, you have to be back by eleven from


    now on.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    She recalled the maid¡¯s words ¨C ¡®he cares about you.¡¯


    ¡°Because you live on my turf ¨C you have to listen to me.¡±


    She was speechless to hear that.


    He started making his way downstairs in a seemingly better mood.


    Josie twitched her lips and made a face behind his back. He¡¯s a capitalist, for sure!

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    Josie was relieved after speaking to Nicole. She believed that Nicole would make the right decision. As


    long as they called off the marriage, Jenny had no reason to ask for Paul¡¯s medical bills.


    However, Nicole hadn¡¯t replied to her for a few days. She was worried that Nicole might be persuaded


    by Justin because of love. She was also concerned that Justin might harm Nicole when he was pushed


    into a corner.


    She looked at their chat, hesitating if she should ask her.


    At that moment, there was amotion in the design department.


    Dexter¡¯s assistant, Ivy, appeared in sleek and beautiful formal attire.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mr. Russell has a new announcement.¡± She waved the file in her hands.


    Alice nudged Josie. ¡°I bet it¡¯s about the new manager. Could it be you?¡± Alice whispered.


    Josie was doubtful about that. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± I don¡¯t have enough experience.


    Under everyone¡¯s gazes, Ivy opened the folder and announced, ¡°The new manager for the design


    department is ir Wilcher.¡±


    Team A cheered for her.


    Alice looked disappointed. ¡°Hmph. You¡¯re better than her.¡±


    Nevertheless, the result was within Josie¡¯s expectations.


    She shook her head with a wry smile. ¡°Nonsense.¡±


    Ivy suddenly appraised her interestedly before quickly leaving.


    Looking at her figure, Josie said, ¡°Out of so many people, I envy her the most. At such a young age,


    she¡¯s capable enough to be Mr. Russell¡¯s personal assistant. Not only is her sry high, but she¡¯s also


    very confident. How nice.¡±


    Alice also followed her gaze. ¡°True¡­ She¡¯s more capable than anyone else. I heard that back when the


    CEO of Russell Group was undecided, she chose to stand up for Mr. Russell and went through many


    obstacles with him until today. Not everyone has her foresight and tenacity. I guess she¡¯s Mr. Russell¡¯s


    most trusted person in thispany.¡±


    Josie also heard some news about her. If I were Ivy, I¡¯d probably choose Dexter too. He is different


    from others, and he has good leadership. Well, there are no what-ifs. I couldn¡¯t possibly have met him


    so many years back.


    In the pantry, Phil was making a cup of coffee. When he saw Ivy looking out the window absent-


    mindedly, he walked over and smiled. ¡°Ms. Miller, I heard you announce thetest personnel change at


    the design department today.¡±


    She lifted her head and eyed him cautiously.


    ¡°It¡¯s approved by Mr. Russell. Why can¡¯t I announce it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not your job. You stepped over the boundaries of your job. Does he know?¡±


    ¡°Do you want him to know?¡±


    Phil was a sly, old fox in this industry. He took a sip of his coffee before replying, ¡°You¡¯re his favorite; I


    don¡¯t dare to tell on you. Apart from that, I¡¯m also delighted with the result. There¡¯s no need to make a


    mountain out of a molehill.¡±


    I suppose he doesn¡¯t dare to do so. Ivy continued gazing out of the window, ignoring him.


    After finishing his coffee, he whispered in her ears before leaving, ¡°All the best. Everyone is specting


    if you are going to be Mr. Russell¡¯s partner. If you¡¯re sessful, remember to invite me to the wedding.¡±


    She jerked her head up. Those words were just insults to her.


    ¡°Get lost.¡±

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    Though they had cleared the air up, they didn¡¯t have much interaction after that ¨C they were too busy


    with work.


    Josie was still working on the PowerPoint slides to present her proposal to the clients. After ir


    became the manager, her workload became heavier. She was not alone; Team B felt a significant


    increase in their workload.


    Fortunately, ir wasn¡¯t as trouble-seeking as Samantha ¨C at least, she had a great work ethic.


    Russell Group had a project with a famous beverage brand. The deal was done by the higher-ups, and


    ire hadn¡¯t decided on the person in charge. Josie wanted to give it a try.


    Dexter had been flying overseastely with Ivy and other C-level executives. He had been gone for a


    few days.


    A picture had been circting on thepany forum. Dexter was speaking in a meeting while Ivy


    stood beside him, looking verypatible.


    The atmosphere between them seemed rather flirtatious in the picture ¨C perhaps it was the angle.


    Hence, rumors about Dexter and Ivy started spreading in the entirepany that she was going to be


    his wife.


    All these years, Dexter hadn¡¯t had any rumors involving women ¨C Ivy was the only one.


    Josie snorted out inughter when she heard that in the pantry.


    ¡°A love story between the CEO and his assistant is quite desirable indeed. Unfortunately¡­¡±


    Alice asked, ¡°What?¡±


    Unfortunately, Dexter is already married. Technically speaking, I¡¯m his wife.


    Josie smiled at her teasingly. How improper of me to do that!


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


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    Ah, I can only imagine that. Who would need to work after marrying a man like him? I have such a


    miserable life.


    Since Dexter was not around, Josie visited her father at the hospital after work to talk to him. However,


    when it waste, she felt the need to go home. Dexter is simply too intimidating. Subconsciously, I


    follow all his orders. Is this my nature as his employee?


    On that day, she was walking back to Mason Garden on the street lined with oak trees and the scent of


    flowers. Suddenly, a fancy car drove past her. Before she could get a good look at it, Nicole called her.


    ¡°Josie, h-h-he hit me!¡± she whispered in a trembling voice.


    Josie immediately came to a stop. ¡°What? Who hit you? Calm down and tell me everything.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Justin. He kept trying to change my mind. I didn¡¯t want to oblige, so he grabbed my hair and hit my


    head against the wall. He had been hitting me for half an hour before he returned to his senses. It¡¯s


    terrifying! After that, he kneeled on the floor, asking for my forgiveness.¡±


    Josie could picture the situation vividly.


    ¡°What a fiend! How are you now? Did you escape?¡±


    ¡°He tried to lock me up, but I escaped when he went to drink some water. I¡¯m at my ce now, but I¡¯m


    worried he mighte here¡­¡± Nicole sobbed.


    Josie thought that Justin might not want to break up, but she didn¡¯t expect that he would hit Nicole.


    After all, they had been together for three years.


    He¡¯s a gambler who¡¯s at a dead end now. He would do anything.


    Josie wanted to continue speaking, but the fancy car stopped and shed its headlights at her.

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    ¡°Nicole, calm down. That ce is no longer safe. You should leave immediately for a hotel or your


    parents¡¯ house. I¡¯m going over now.¡±


    While speaking, she walked briskly to the car. The windows were rolled down, revealing Dexter¡¯s


    handsome but exhausted face. ¡°Who are you speaking to?¡± he asked, frowning.


    It¡¯s Dexter! He¡¯s back!


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie immediately lit up and got into the car.


    ¡°Dexter, can you send me to a ce?¡±


    Ten minutester, Dexter finally understood the situation. He pinched his forehead and said, ¡°ording


    to you, Justin is a gambler at wits¡¯ end. Now that his final hope was destroyed, he might go to extremes


    ¨C tonight is the perfect example. Even if you help her now, she will still be in danger. I think you should


    call the police.¡±


    Josie wasforting Nicole through text messages. ¡°You¡¯re so callous. I don¡¯t even know how serious


    her injuries are. Yet, you¡¯re asking me to tell her to find the police instead. That¡¯s so inhumane!¡± she


    protested without even lifting her head.


    She felt slightly guilty. If it weren¡¯t for her, Nicole wouldn¡¯t have been hit. Hence, she was determined to


    see Nicole.


    The street lights poured in through the windows on her face that were zing with determination. After


    seeing that, Dexter relented. ¡°Alright. Speed up,¡± he informed the driver.


    Nicole took Josie¡¯s advice and went to a hotel. When Josie arrived, it took a while before she dared to


    open the door. Through the slit, she saw a man next to Josie and immediately became vignt. ¡°This


    is¡­¡±


    Josie quickly exined, ¡°This is my friend. He¡¯s a good person ¨C you don¡¯t have to be afraid of him.¡±


    Finally, Nicole opened the door.


    The hotel wasn¡¯t a good-quality one. Dexter looked rather obtrusive, standing there in his designer¡¯s


    suit.


    Nicole was heavily injured, with bruises all over her body. There was an empty patch of hair on her


    head.


    Josie clenched her fists tightly. ¡°Just wait! I will definitely take revenge for you!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re pretty pumped up, aren¡¯t you? Do you think you can injure him with such a small body?¡± Dexter


    doused her mes coldly.


    Josie rolled her eyes at him. If you have nothing nice to say, you can just shut up!


    Disappointment filled Nicole¡¯s face. ¡°He¡¯s right. I don¡¯t want you to risk your life for me, Josie. I¡¯m utterly


    disappointed in him; it never urred to me that he would hit me. I just want to stay away from him, as


    far as possible, and have a clean break.¡±


    ¡°But what should we do? No one understands him better than you. It¡¯s just a matter of time before he


    finds you. He is determined to marry you to bear his debt.¡±


    ¡°I also don¡¯t know what to do. I¡¯ll lose my job if this goes on.¡±


    Josie paced around anxiously while Dexter crossed his arms in front of his chest as he leaned against


    the wardrobe. ¡°You¡¯re making me dizzy.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, help us out! Can you bear to see such an innocent woman injured by a jerk?¡± she said in


    annoyance.


    ¡°Just leave this city. Since your parents know what is going on, I¡¯m sure they won¡¯t me you,¡± he


    suggestedzily, looking at the sobbing Nicole. ¡°No matter how capable he is, he can¡¯t possibly fly to


    another city to look for you. On top of that, he¡¯s full of debt.¡±

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    ¡°That¡¯s a solution ¨C leaving Wavery.¡± Josie pped.


    Nicole hesitated. ¡°But¡­ my identity card is still with him. What will happen to my job and my parents if I


    leave? What if he finds my parents?¡±


    ¡°Which is more important, your life or your job?¡± Dexter asked impatiently. Indecisive women had


    always irritated him. ¡°Ignore your identity card ¨C just tell the police that you lost yours and make a new


    one. Don¡¯t worry about your parents. We are still here, and don¡¯t forget about the police. He can¡¯t do


    anything to them.¡±


    He had the natural air of a leader and was used to giving orders. Nicole nodded weakly, not daring to


    look at him. ¡°I¡¯ll leave tomorrow morning. But I haven¡¯t told my parents about this. I don¡¯t want them to


    worry about me.¡±


    Josie sighed andforted her. ¡°Think about that when you¡¯re safe. Don¡¯t let anyone know where you


    are going, okay?¡±


    Nicole finally calmed down and thanked them profusely.


    When they left the hotel, Dexter finally got some fresh air. Next to him, Josie sighed. ¡°Now I know how


    she stayed with him for three years.¡±


    Nicole was an indecisive woman, while Justin had been taking the lead in their rtionship. It¡¯s no


    wonder she¡¯s fooled by him.


    Dexter turned to her. ¡°Can you stop sighing? You¡¯ve been doing that the entire evening ¨C it¡¯s annoying.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Josie joked, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to know that we can get a new identity card that way. I thought you


    only take private jets when you travel.¡±


    ¡°Unlike you, I havemon sense. Even though I take private jets, I¡¯m still a human.¡±


    For the first time, Josie didn¡¯t argue with him. ¡°Okay, okay. Thanks a lot, Mr. Russell. I might have lost


    my cool if you weren¡¯t here tonight.¡±


    She didn¡¯t expect that he would help her out.


    He smiled and opened the door for her. ¡°Good to know that. Shall we go back now?¡±


    She smiled and replied tentatively, ¡°I¡¯m worried that Justin might find her here. I¡¯d like to stay with her


    tonight. I¡¯ll only be relieved once I see her leave.¡±


    There was an ominous silence.


    ¡°I can sleep with her in her hotel room. If you are tired, you can go back. I¡¯ll be fine!¡±


    Dexter looked like he was about to lose his temper.


    ¡°So, I should go back and wait for him to beat you guys up. Is that it?¡± He pursed his lips and frowned.


    ¡°Get in the car!¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t reject him. She got into the car, but he didn¡¯t ask the driver to start the engine. Instead,


    he closed his eyes and rested in the backseat.


    She was slightly fearful for a moment before realizing that he meant to stay in the car to monitor the


    situation outside since they could see the street clearly.


    As the light fell on his face, it entuated his exhaustion.


    He¡¯s probably been busy the entire day. Yet, before he could go home and rest, I involved him in this.


    Gratitude surged within her. Shey down and said tentatively, ¡°Dexter, thanks for everything today.¡±


    She no longer addressed him as ¡®Mr. Russell.¡¯


    It¡¯s my personal issue. He doesn¡¯t have an obligation to help me out.


    She thought he didn¡¯t hear her, but in the next second, he ced his hand on her eyes, which were


    moist with tears.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyshes fluttered before she shut her eyes.


    This was the second time they slept next to each other. Josie still felt uneasy because of the


    surroundings. Her heart couldn¡¯t stop thumping hard.


    She was even making sure that she wasn¡¯t breathing too loudly.


    ¡°Should I book a room for you to rest better?¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    Josie kept checking the situation outside and barely slept the whole night.


    Thankfully, Justin did not show up at all that night.


    At daylight, Nicole came out of the hotel carrying a bag and hailed a taxi to head to the transportation


    hub.


    Josie thought of waking Dexter up. But when she turned to him, she realized he had already opened


    his eyes and was looking at her.


    She felt goosebumps from his gaze. ¡°Erm¡­¡±


    Dexter pressed his brow and instructed the driver, ¡°Follow that car.¡±


    The early morning air in Wavery carried a hint of saltiness of the sea. Soon, there were more cars on


    the road and people moving about. Josie stretched her waist and felt aches all over her muscles and


    joints. Since her body ached, she could imagine it must be worse for Dexter, who was used to a life of


    comfort.


    The thought made her feel even more remorseful.


    After quietly escorting Nicole to the transportation hub, the driver turned to Dexter and asked, ¡°Mr.


    Russell, would you like to return to Mason Garden or thepany?¡±


    Dexter considered briefly and answered, ¡°Thepany.¡±


    Josie only dared to suggest softly, ¡°Perhaps you should go home and rest this morning.¡±


    She was all right because a social animal like her was used to staying upte. However, she was


    concerned that Dexter would get sick.


    Dexter snorted and responded sarcastically, ¡°Will you be helping me with my work?¡±


    Josie had nothing to say. She knew she could not handle his work.


    As the head of a publicly listedpany, every second of his working hour was valuable. After all,


    every department waited for his decision. Thus, Dexter had to go to work.


    He could not afford to rest.


    Josie asked the driver to stop as the car neared Russell Group. ¡°I¡¯ll get off here!¡±


    Dexter frowned slightly and guessed her intention. However, he could not resist messing with her. ¡°Do


    you find it embarrassing to be seen in the same car with me?¡±


    Josie looked at him incredulously. ¡°If I am seen getting out of the car with you, the tabloid will dig up


    everything about me, including my ancestors, and put them on the news tomorrow.¡± She sped her


    hands and pleaded, ¡°Mr. Russell, please have mercy on my ancestors and let them rest in peace!¡±


    After saying that, she rushed out of the car with her backpack as if trying to escape. Then, she ran


    toward thepany.


    ¡°Ungrateful brat.¡± Dexter raised his eyebrows, but his mouth curved up slightly.


    Josie ran for a while and saw Dexter¡¯s Porsche speed away. Then, she suddenly thought of something


    and entered a breakfast shop by the street.


    ¡°Miss, what would you like to have?¡±


    ¡°Erm¡­ Can I get the pancakes to have here? Also, I would like a hash brown, two bacon sandwiches,


    and atte for takeaway.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Food prices had risen rapidly. Ten years ago, a bacon sandwich would only cost a coin each. But now,


    she had to pay five coins for one. Thus, Josie usually wouldn¡¯t buy them for herself.


    However, these were for Dexter. Josie had no idea how she could thank him for what he didst night.


    Then, she remembered he had not had breakfast. Therefore, she rushed to send the food to him.


    Thus, Josie carried the breakfast and took the elevator from the underground car park. Since it was still


    early, she hardly met anyone on her way to his office.


    She would see someone asionally, but they were people she did not know from other departments.


    Dexter had a private break room in his office. He would stay there whenever work was hectic. It was


    complete with all kinds of amenities. Dexter was tired, so he decided to take a bath first.


    When Josie reached the top floor, no one was in the secretary¡¯s office. Thus, she quietly sneaked into


    Dexter¡¯s office and found it empty. Where¡¯s Dexter? Hasn¡¯t he arrived at thepany?


    She could not figure out where he was. Thus, she had no choice but to put the breakfast on his desk.


    She pulled out a sticky note from her bag and wrote a message for him. ¡®Thank you for your kind


    assistance, Mr. Russell. Please enjoy the breakfast.¡¯

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    As Josie was about to leave, the break room door suddenly opened.


    Dexter had just finished his bath. His hair was wet, and he wore a white shirt with two top buttons open,


    revealing his exquisite corbone.


    Water droplets flowed from his hair strands and down his neck. Josie widened her eyes and gulped.


    Dexter suddenly stopped toweling his hair and narrowed his eyes. ¡°Josie? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I came to deliver breakfast.¡±


    Suddenly, Josie found herself stuck in a quandary. It was too awkward to stay but too rude to leave.


    She clumsily pointed at the food on the table.


    Josie tried to figure out how she could exin that she did not mean to see him in this state. She did


    not know that he could bathe here.


    Dexter was suspicious of her and went to the desk to have a look. He seemed seductive as he bent


    over it.


    Then, he read the sticky note and smirked. ¡°At least you have some conscience.¡±


    But what are these oily things?


    Before Josie could exin, sounds of conversations came from outside. It seemed the staff at the


    secretary¡¯s office had arrived.


    Oh no, what will people think if they see me? Josie panicked and made frantic gestures to Dexter,


    pleading with him to help her.


    Dexter pursed his lips and took the breakfast on his desk. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Then, he closed the break room door and locked it.


    Soon, someone knocked on the door. It was Ivy. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you in there? I noticed water droplets


    on the floor.¡±


    Josie leaned against the door. Her heart was in her throat. She even forgot to breathe.


    Dexter sat on the couch and replied expressionlessly, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m going to rest for a while. Don¡¯t disturb


    me.¡±


    Ivy paused before continuing, ¡°Did you work overtime? Why didn¡¯t you ask for my help? I¡­¡±


    ¡°Please leave.¡±


    Ivy was stunned for a moment before replying in the affirmative and leaving the office.


    Josie slid from the door and sat before Dexter. Her expression was that of despair. ¡°What am I to do


    now? Your secretary hase to the office. How am I to leave?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s office is connected to the secretary¡¯s office. Anyone in the secretary¡¯s office can see someone


    leaving Dexter¡¯s office.


    If they see me leaving his break room¡­ My reputation will be ruined.


    Dexter pretended not to hear her and opened the oily lunch box. He brought out each food item and


    frowned with disdain. ¡°What are these?¡±


    ¡°They are delicious!¡± Josie became even more nervous. She picked up a stic fork. ¡°This is a hash


    brown. It¡¯s nice and crispy!¡±


    ¡°These are bacon sandwiches. They put in good smoked bacon and caramelized onions. They are


    delicious!¡±


    ¡°This is atte. They roasted the coffee beans the night before and made it fresh per order. They even


    use fresh full cream milk.¡±


    Josie introduced the food as if they were treasures.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. Josie was currently in the highest room in Wavery. There was endless traffic


    on the road below and numerous buildings behind her. Despite being in such a grand ce, she did not


    seem out of ce sitting here, introducing him to cheap breakfast.


    ¡°I only eat toast and drink Americano in the morning.¡±


    Those words immediately extinguished Josie¡¯s enthusiasm. Although she knew the breakfast she had


    bought meant nothing to him, somehow, she still wished for his approval.


    ¡°Sure¡­ This breakfast is considered grand for us ordinary office workers. I¡¯ll eat them. You better not


    regret itter!¡±


    Josie pretended not to care and reached for a bacon sandwich. However, Dexter suddenly snatched it


    from her. ¡°Who says I¡¯m not eating?¡±

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    Dexter ate elegantly. Even though he was only eating a sandwich, he made it a mesmerizing spectacle


    and did not seem cringy.


    Josie was stunned. Then, Dexter raised his eyebrows. ¡°The taste is nothing special. It¡¯s not as nice as


    the ones I¡¯ve had before.¡±


    His words surprised Josie even more. Does this mean Dexter lived like an ordinary person before this?


    Wasn¡¯t he brought up in luxuries?


    ¡°Is¡­ Is that so? Have you had it before?¡±


    ¡°When I was little,¡± Dexter replied. He remembered a distant memory but did not borate on it.


    Josie knew her ce and did not ask any more questions. She turned around and looked at the


    beautiful scenery below. It felt like she could see everything from here.


    ¡°The scenery is beautiful. It must be even more amazing at night.¡±


    Dexter took a sip of thette. It tasted as lovely as she described.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°I do, but I will feel lonely if I stay here for a long time.¡± Josie hugged her knees and sighed. ¡°After all,


    it¡¯s lonely at the top.¡±


    Hearing her, Dexter stopped eating and felt a throbbing sensation in his heart.


    She was the first woman to enter his private break room and was also the first to verbalize what he had


    hidden deep in his heart.


    However, Dexter felt a repulsion toward her and did not like that she understood him so well.


    ¡°What do you know about being lonely at the top? Have you figured out how to get out of here?¡±


    Josie pulled out of her thoughts and panicked. ¡°Oh no! It¡¯s almost office hours. ire will give me


    trouble if she realizes I haven¡¯t clocked in. Argh! My attendance for this month is ruined again!¡±


    Is there anything more frustrating than being in thepany but unable to clock in?


    ¡°Has ire assigned the order from the beveragepany to anyone?¡± Dexter suddenly recalled the


    matter.


    ¡°No, she probably wants to handle it herself.¡±


    Josie had tried topete for it but failed.


    Dexter leaned back on the couch. He left his shirt cor open wide, making him seem rxed. ¡°I heard


    negative things about your new manager. Why didn¡¯t youin to me?¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°I¡¯m not a kid. Moreover, would you believe me if I told you? If you had shown favoritism,


    you wouldn¡¯t have given her the manager position, right?¡±


    She answered him frankly.


    Then, Dexter stood up and grabbed a jacket from the cloakroom. ¡°Wait for me here. Don¡¯te out


    unless I tell you to.¡±


    Josie finally dared to check the ce after he left.


    It was spacious. The wholeyout should be at least one hundred and fifty square meters. It had a


    cloakroom, a minibar, a bathroom, and a bedroom. This ce had everything.


    It would not be an exaggeration to say that this was his second home.


    Her legs turned numb. She sat on the couch and waited for his order.


    Meanwhile, Dexter gave instructions in his office. ¡°Send this document to Lagoon Capital. They have to


    make some more amendments to the contract terms.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Ivy took the document. She could not resist stealing a nce at Dexter. He seemed to be his


    usual self.


    He rarely stays in the break room these days. Why did he stay therest night?


    ¡°Is there any problem?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ll head out now.¡±


    ¡°Call in the rest. I have instructions for them.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Other than Ivy, three more staff were in the secretary¡¯s office. They were all outstanding at coordinating


    matters in thepany.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    They walked into the office respectfully and faced the expressionless Dexter.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, did you ask to see us?¡±


    Dexter grunted and said, ¡°I need you to head to the marketing department and bring me the marketing


    n for the new project for my approval.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on in the finance department? Why haven¡¯t they submitted the report for the new


    quarter? I need you to head there and chase them for it. I want to see it today.¡±


    ¡°Also, about the venture capital, tell Alex he better finds a suitable investment. Otherwise, he and his


    team should leave.¡±

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    After a moment, the three of them looked at each other but quickly responded, ¡°We¡¯ll go right now.¡±


    They walked out side by side and exchanged their misgivings softly. ¡°This can be solved with a phone


    call. Why does Mr. Russell want us to go in person?¡±


    ¡°Forget it. Mr. Russell must have his reasons.¡±


    At that moment, Dexter¡¯s ¡®reason¡¯ was fast asleep on the couch.


    Dexter wanted tough, and he did. Heughed in rage.


    He was sending people away on her behalf, but she was sleeping peacefully here.


    After a sleepless night, Josie was exhausted. She fell asleep as soon as she was on the couch but


    couldn¡¯t sleep well. Her long ckshes trembled, and her tiny mouth was slightly pursed. She was


    no different from a child.


    She had no airs and graces when she slept, and the baby fat was apparent on her face. From this


    angle, she looked more like Lily from back then¡­ Dexter was engrossed as he watched her. He


    couldn¡¯t help but lean closer and reach out a finger to poke her face.


    It was very soft.


    He didn¡¯t notice the smile he had on his face.


    ¡°No! Don¡¯t hit me!¡± Josie suddenly cried out loud. She had awoken in fright, and her body shivered


    subconsciously. She bumped into the man before her, and her lips brushed across his face because of


    the proximity.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened, and she looked disbelievingly at the scene before her.


    The two of them were very close. They breathed lightly into each other¡¯s ears.


    Dexter¡¯s heart sank. The lips that had touched his were very soft. They were so supple that it made him


    want to go closer.


    Her breathing was rushed, and her warm breath sprayed into his ear.


    His brows wrinkled tightly.


    Josie jumped away quickly, covering her lips with her hands as she stuttered, ¡°I! You! I don¡¯t know! I fell


    asleep! I didn¡¯t know you were in front of me¡­ Wait, what were you doing?¡±


    Dexter stood up and touched his face with his fingers. ¡°¡­ I was going to wake you up.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Oh¡­¡± Josie didn¡¯t know what to say.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you leaving?¡±


    The door of the break room was open. It seemed like Dexter had things under control.


    Josie didn¡¯t wait another second. She immediately picked up her bag and ran out. The sound of her


    heartbeat almost drowned out everything else.


    Dexter¡¯s head was starting to hurt. He mmed the break room¡¯s door fiercely. How outrageous. His


    heart was racing furiously because of Josie.


    Josie took the elevator down to the twenty-seventh floor, and she felt her soul floating behind her. Did I


    just kiss Dexter?


    Is that considered a kiss? It shouldn¡¯t be¡­ We just touched lips for 0.00001 of a second.


    So why is the sensationsting so long? Why isn¡¯t it going away?


    ¡°Josie! Why did you just arrive? Do you know that you¡¯re an hourte? This can be considered absence


    without leave!¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ire berated her sternly as soon as she stepped into the design department.


    Josie¡¯s eyes had lost focus, and she didn¡¯t hear a thing. ¡°Huh? Oh.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Forget about your perfect attendance record this month!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ire and the rest of the design department were slightly surprised.


    Josie cared about her perfect attendance record so much. Was she okay with it?


    Upon seeing her act strangely, ire couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with her and turned to return to her


    office.


    Alice hit Josie¡¯s head with a file. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? You look like your spirit has left your body.


    Did you bump into a ghost?¡±


    Josie drank a big gulp of water and waved her hands. ¡°You might not believe it even if I told you. It¡¯s


    more absurd than bumping into a ghost.¡±


    Alice was dumbstruck.


    Josie was muddleheaded the entire morning because of this episode. When she ate lunch, she


    suddenly thought of something. Who is Dexter? He¡¯s met every type of woman and won¡¯t take this


    seriously. Since he won¡¯t take it seriously, why am I brooding over it?¡±


    As she thought about it, she became a lot more rxed!

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59


    ¡ª ¡®I¡¯m here, Josie. I¡¯m sorry for troubling you with my parents.¡¯


    After Josie left work, she received a text message from Nicole while waiting for the bus at the bus stop.


    Her suspended heart finally settled, and she looked down as she replied, ¡®It¡¯s fine as long as you¡¯re


    safe.¡¯


    She didn¡¯t know why but the bus today seemed slightlyte. She had been waiting for a long time, but it


    didn¡¯te. There was a heavyptop bag in her arms, and she felt like she would fall asleep if she


    shut her eyes.


    At this time, Josie woke up with a start after hearing the sound of a horn. She shivered and saw a


    Rolls-Royce stop in front of her. The driver rolled down the windows and smiled politely. ¡°We meet


    again, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart tightened. She immediately looked around to see if there were any Russell Group


    employees. At this time, the car door opened automatically. It was different from the subtle Porsche this


    morning. This car seemed very mboyant.


    She got into the car quickly and ensured no one saw her.


    In the spacious car seat, Dexter was working on hisptop. His expression was serious and impatient.


    ¡°It would be great if you could keep your guard up like this against strangers.¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded. She didn¡¯t know how to face Dexter but felt much more rxed after he called


    her out.


    After a while, Dexter closed hisptop. She plucked up her courage and asked, ¡°Are you done with


    work?¡±


    Dexter looked at her from the side.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just that Nicole sent me a text message saying that she¡¯s reached.¡± He was also a part


    of it. It was only natural to tell him about the progress.


    Dexter was confused. ¡°What does she have to do with me?¡±


    ¡°But you helped her.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because you were meddlesome.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯ll keep quiet then.¡±


    Perhaps the Rolls-Royce wasn¡¯t huge, or maybe the image from this morning was impossible to get rid


    of. Josie felt that the air was thin. Her face flushed uncontrobly, and she didn¡¯t dare to look Dexter in


    the eye.


    The man leaned back in the car seat and watched all her little habits. His lips curved unconsciously.


    At this time, Josie¡¯s cell phone rang. The caller ID showed that it was Justin. She was frightened and


    showed it to Dexter.


    ¡°Answer the call,¡± he said calmly.


    Josie cleared her throat and answered the call impatiently. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Nicole?¡± Justin¡¯s voice wasn¡¯t as sloppy as usual. There was a repressed and contained rage


    that came before he lost his temper.


    ¡°Nicole? You¡¯re asking me about your girlfriend? Are you ill, Justin?¡± Josie acted unconcerned and


    spoke in her usual manner. Her eyes met with Dexter¡¯s, and she was very nervous.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Logically speaking, Justin shouldn¡¯t know that she had contacted Nicole.


    But Justin¡¯s tone was very confident. ¡°Nicole has gone missing. I¡¯ve looked at all her social media, and


    guess what I found? I found your direct messages with her on Twitter! Good job. I never thought that


    you were the mastermind. Where¡¯s Nicole? Tell me! Where is she?¡±


    He was almost yelling at the other end. Josie was frightened, and her hand holding the cell phone


    trembled.


    Dexter turned on hisptop again and quickly typed something.


    Josie looked at the screen and repeated. ¡°I did look for Nicole because your mom wanted money, so


    she said she would think about it, but we didn¡¯t talk anymore after that. I don¡¯t know where she is!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lying! She only wanted to break up with me after you contacted her! Josie, you must have told


    her about my debts! You better tell me honestly where she is. Otherwise, I will kill you!¡±


    ¡°I said that I don¡¯t know! Kill me all you want!¡±


    ¡ª ¡®Hang up!¡¯


    Josie obeyed and hung up at once after speaking.

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60


    ¡° Chapter 60


    Josie was anxio 60us because she had been careless. The direct messages on Twitter were


    permanent. They could be seen even if the IP address was changed!


    Dexter closed hisptop and said coolly, ¡°Why are you worrying?¡±


    ¡°How can I not! He traced it back to me! He¡¯ll find Nicole sooner orter. Oh, that¡¯s right. Nicole¡¯s


    parents¡­ I haven¡¯t reported it to the police. I¡¯ll do it now!¡±


    Josie was too anxious. She wanted to report it to the police, but her cell phone fell on the ground.


    Dexter grabbed her trembling hands and slowly said, ¡°Calm down! I¡¯ve sent people to look after


    Nicole¡¯s parents. If Justin does anything, I will know at once. I¡¯ve also gotten people to pressure the


    casino. You don¡¯t have to report to the police for the time being.¡±


    Josie was startled. She never thought that he had made a move.


    ¡°What about me? If Justin can¡¯t find Nicole and keepsing to dead ends, he wille after me.¡±


    She valued her life, and there were too many things that she hadn¡¯t done. She couldn¡¯t die like that.


    Dexter frowned, displeased. ¡°What are you afraid of with me around?¡±


    With him holding her hand tightly, Josie lost her sanity. The words ¡®with me around¡¯ swirled around in


    her heart. She didn¡¯t know how to reply at that moment.


    Upon seeing that she had stopped trembling, Dexter let go. ¡°Mason Garden has strict security. Non-


    residents have no way of getting in, just like Russell Group. He can¡¯t do anything to you.¡±


    ¡°But what about when I go to work and leave work¡­ And when I visit my dad at the hospital. What


    should I do if he camps out at one spot?¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips tightly. ¡°From today onwards, we¡¯ll go to and leave work together. As for going to


    the hospital, if there¡¯s a sh in our schedules, I will get someone to go with you.¡±


    In other words, if there was no sh of schedules, he would go with her.


    Josie clenched her fists unconsciously. ¡°Actually¡­ you don¡¯t need to protect me like this.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°This is my duty.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t think that it was strange. ¡°Since you¡¯re married to me, I am responsible


    for your safety. But of course, that¡¯s only if you listen to me.¡±


    Josie ignored the paradox in what he said and nodded at once. ¡°I will! If you ask me to jump, I will ask


    how high!¡±


    Dexter gave her a strong sense of security. After all, as the business executor of Russell Group, he had


    a unique identity. Josie wouldn¡¯t die if she obeyed him.


    Dexter twisted his fingers gently and felt her warmth from just now.


    ¡°I have to remind you of something.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°You used Nicole terminating the engagement as an excuse to try and stop Justin and his mom from


    getting the sum of the medical expenses. But Justin is heavily in debt. He might be more extreme


    when he reaches the end of his rope. How will you stop him?¡±


    Dexter hit the nail and got to the bottom of things at once.


    Josie had a splitting headache, but she understood. ¡°I didn¡¯t overthink it at the time. I emphasized the


    wedding and forgot about this.¡±


    ¡°Then what do you think I should do? I believe they can¡¯t get the medical fees, but I¡¯m afraid they will


    lay a finger on my dad!¡±


    ¡°Wait and see what happens.¡±


    At night.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Josie woke up with fright. She had a dream where Justin held a knife against her neck as he asked


    about Nicole¡¯s whereabouts. She was so spooked that she cried out loud.


    There was still lingering fear in her heart when she woke up. She stood on the moonlight-filled balcony


    and was lost in thought. She kept thinking about one question ¡ª Why did I call out for Dexter in my


    nightmare?


    It seemed like he had been protecting her since they got married.


    Am I¡­ slowly starting to rely on him?

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61


    Chapter 61 The Project Was Given to Her


    Dexter kept his word. Every day after that, he started going to and leaving work together with Josie.


    Their time never matched up, Josie didn¡¯t want him to wait for her since she was troubling him.


    But she never knew that Dexter was an early bird. She had to wake up two hours earlier daily. He


    would work in the car while she dozed off at one side.


    Just like that, she was forced to be the earliest employce in the design department every day.


    ¡°Josic, has¡­ your dad¡¯s condition worsened?¡± Alice was torn for a long time and finally asked amid the


    anticipation of Team B colleagues.


    Josie was drowsy and wasn¡¯t feeling herself. She said, ¡°What are you saying? Of course not.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the earliest to arrive and thetest to leave daily. You¡¯re almost a model worker. Even if it is


    amazing, you can¡¯t do this¡­ Or are you trying to move ire with your sincerity so she can give you


    the beveragepany¡¯s project?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t just purely adore my job¡­¡± Josie almost couldn¡¯t keep her eyes open but was still stubborn.


    Alice was puzzled. ¡°No way. You¡¯re the most anti¨Ccapitalistic person in our department. When have you


    ever not left work on time? But recently, you¡¯ve worked at least two hours of overtime. Mr. Russell will


    give you an award when he sees you like that. What on earth is going on?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t even force a smile. She almost couldn¡¯t hold on anymore.


    She was working overtime for two hours because she was waiting for everyone in the office to leave


    before she went up to the top floor to look for Dexter. After all, he hadn¡¯t gotten off work. She would go


    to his break room to wait and sleep.


    He was swamped. He had conference calls and online meetings one after another. He also had to sign


    contracts, review project progress, check product details, and so on¡­ Most importantly, Dexter didn¡¯t


    seem to feel tired. When he finished his work, he could even knock on the break room door and taunt


    her. ¡°Are you sleepingfortably on my couch?¡±


    Josie would usually wake up from her dreams in surprise. ¡°Are¡­ are you off work?¡±


    Dexter would usually reveal a smug expression at this time. ¡°It looks like the five tubs of ice cream in


    my refrigerator will expire.¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded.


    When she thought about it, her lips couldn¡¯t help but curve. She answered Alice, ¡°I dare say that no one


    in thepany works overtime more than Mr. Russell.¡±


    Fortunately, working overtime every day for two hours wasn¡¯t wasted. Josie was making progress on


    one of the projects she had been working on. It was a hundred¨Cyear¨Cold wine factory that was


    outsourcing. After looking at her n, they were delighted and hoped she could participate in designing


    thebel.


    If this project went through, Josie wasn¡¯t thinking of a bonus. It was the five tubs of ice cream in Mason


    Garden¡¯s refrigerator! It was finally almost the day to eat them. Haha, I would never let them expire!


    ¡°What are you giggling about, Josie?¡± ire tapped Josie¡¯s desk impatiently with some documents.


    Josie came to her senses. She coughed lightly and tilted her head in confusion.


    ire threw the documents in her hands onto Josie¡¯s desk. After that, she leaned close to Josie¡¯s


    workstation. ¡°Didn¡¯t you want the beveragepany project? Here you go.¡±


    Josie raised her brows. ¡°Why? I¡¯ve asked you for this project a few times, but you refused to give it to


    me. Why are you giving it to me now?¡±


    The beveragepany had an incredible corporate vision. If the project seeded, ire could make


    a name in the advertisement design circle.


    Josie thought ire refused to give it to her because ire wanted the opportunity for herself. Josie


    had given up and was prepared to throw herself into the wine factory project, but ire suddenly did


    this. ¡¤


    There must be something fishy going on!


    ¡°You¡¯re amusing. You¡¯ve been asking for it every day, but you don¡¯t want it now that I¡¯m giving it to you.


    What on earth do you want, Josie Warren?¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62


    Chapter 62 Pretty Tricky


    Tsk.


    Josie raised her brows. ¡°I¡¯m not saying I don¡¯t want it. There has to be a reason, right?¡±


    ¡°The edits they want suit your style, so I¡¯m willing to give you this opportunity,¡± ire said arrogantly,


    seeming selfless and generous.


    Josie didn¡¯t believe her. Everyone in her department was sly. How could ire easily let go of


    something


    valuable?


    ¡°But I¡¯m already following up on a new project. I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t have time to take over.¡±


    ¡°You have no right to reject it. Our superiors have discussed this project, and I¡¯m your manager. You


    can leave if you don¡¯t ept the work I appoint you. The design department doesn¡¯t need you.¡±


    ire was telling her to take it or leave.


    Josie ran her tongue across her teeth and said craftily, ¡°I can take over, but say what you want to in


    front of me. Don¡¯te and manipte my design after I¡¯ve taken over.¡±


    ire sneered and walked back to her office without saying anything.


    After ire left, Josie flipped through the documents apprehensively as she thought about how to turn


    down the wine factory¡¯s project. She undoubtedly would not have enough energy if she epted it, so


    she had to give one up.


    A male colleague from Team A suddenly walked over and stopped at Josie¡¯s workstation. He looked


    like he had something to say.


    He had pursued Josie in the past and had always been weak and cowardly. He drifted apart from her


    after discovering she had gotten married. But now¡­


    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Josie asked impatiently, venting her rage on him.


    He nced at ire¡¯s office and quickly said, ¡°Thepany of this project doesn¡¯t have the IP


    copyright. It¡¯s with the boss¡® ex¨Cgirlfriend. ire has talked to her a few times but to no avail.¡±


    After that, he disappeared into the washroom.


    Josie suddenly understood. The cover design was involved with copyright problems. If the boss¡® ex-.


    girlfriend didn¡¯t yield, they were done for. It was pretty tricky. No wonder ire had given it to her.


    ¡°How cunning.¡± Josie took a sip of water irritably. She exined it to the wine factory¡¯s boss in a


    message and turned him down tactfully.


    The other party expressed regret but scarcely realized that it also pained her.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Alice rolled over on a chair, feeling aggrieved. ¡°I knew the wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing wouldn¡¯t have good


    intentions! How can the copyright be with the ex¨Cgirlfriend? What do you n to do?¡±


    Josie was also thinking about it. She guessed the couple had set up the beveragepany together


    early on, and the ex¨Cgirlfriend took the copyright with her when they broke up.


    Rtionship problems and business rivalries wereplicated.


    ¡°Never mind. I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    No matter what, Josie was interested in the project not only because it had good prospects but also


    wanted to prove that she could seed in a project that ire couldn¡¯t!


    At ten at night, Dexter opened the break room door and raised his brows unexpectedly. ¡°The sun is


    rising from the east.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t sleeping today. She was before herptop brainstorming. Her hair was in the way, so she


    pulled it into a ponytail, revealing her exquisite features.


    At this time, Dexter suddenly realized that she was quite pretty.


    He walked to her, and his expression suddenly turned nasty. ¡°You¡¯re on Twitter?¡±


    Josie raised her head. ¡°Correction. To use professional jargon, I¡¯m doing due diligence!¡±


    She dug out the beveragepany¡¯s boss¡® sock puppet Twitter ount. She discovered it was filled


    with his dating stories, but it wasst updated three years ago. That must have been when they broke


    up.


    ¡°Why are you looking at this?¡±


    ¡°To see if I can find the reason for their break up.¡±

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63


    Chapter 63 Justin Is Detained


    The couple used to be very sweet. Josie could tell they didn¡¯t have much money three years ago and


    used to live a difficult life.


    Dexter nced at it and saw that it was about sappy dating life. ¡°You can tell from this?¡±


    ¡°Of course. It may look sweet, but the man must have polished it up. You can tell if you look carefully,¡±


    Josie said adeptly as she scrolled down.


    ire wasn¡¯tpletely devoid of conscience. The ex¨Cgirlfriend¡¯s address was in the information she


    gave Josie. But without locating the pain point of the problem, Josie didn¡¯t dare to make a move.


    Dexter raised his wrist and nced at the time before patting her head. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Josie was distracted. ¡°Why are you so early today? Hey! Mr. Russell! Wait for me, Mr. Russell!¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know if Justin didn¡¯t appear because she went to work and left work together with Dexter.


    To avoid an incident, Josie had deliberately called Matthew. She had requested him to watch the


    hospital on her behalf. However, he didn¡¯t see Justin.


    In the car, Dexter received a call. ¡°Sir, the matters you instructed are settled. He owes the casino


    money, so it¡¯s a regr procedure for us to detain him. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡± Dexter looked at the woman who was still on Twitter. He paused. ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone know that


    he¡¯s in your hands.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie suddenly cried out after he ended the call, ¡°I¡¯ve got it!¡±


    Dexter put his phone down slowly. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Josie pointed at a tweet excitedly. ¡°This was the reason for their break up!¡±


    ¡®There was a dinner partyst night, and thepany invested two million in us. I was happy and


    drank too much, but I didn¡¯t know why a woman was next to me when I woke up the next day¡­ I¡¯ve


    hurt Shanny. It¡¯s only natural that she doesn¡¯t want to forgive me.¡®


    It was a big surprise. Josie clicked her tongue as she shook her head. ¡°He cheated on her physically.¡±


    ¡°So she won¡¯t give us the IP copyrights, will she?¡± Dexter tapped his fingers subconsciously.


    ¡°Not just that. If I were this woman, I would sell the copyrights at a high price so he can¡¯t get it back.


    Stupid man!¡± No wonder ire kept hitting a snag. It was only natural!


    ¡°So, what do you n to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡± Josie was momentarily silent before her gazended on Dexter. She had a crafty smile. I have to


    create empathy to get her trust¡­ Mr. Russell, can you help me with something?¡±


    The next day.


    Dexter had a business meeting at night. He said to Ivy, ¡°I¡¯m going out for a while. Make it an online


    meeting.¡±


    1/9


    Ivy packed everything hurriedly. ¡°Are you going out for work, Mr. Russell? The meeting can be


    postponed. I¡¯m willing toe with¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s personal. You don¡¯t have to postpone it. I can go alone.¡±


    Ivy was slightly startled. During this period, Dexter had done away with her reporting work processes


    every morning in the car and stopped bringing her along when he went out.


    There were rumors at the office that Dexter did it to avoid arousing suspicion and was pushing her


    away.


    It seemed like the two really had no rtionship!


    ¡°Will you be alone, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter typed on his phone with one hand. ¡®I¡¯m downstairs. After that, he answered without turning


    around. ¡°Mm. Coordinate the online meeting.¡±


    At a caf¨¦ by the beach.


    There were many offices nearby. Many white¨Ccor workers woulde here after work to have a cup


    of coffee and refresh themselves.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been with you for seven years, but you cheated on me!¡±

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64


    Chapter 64 Put on a Show with Her


    Dexter frowned slightly as he watched the woman before him suddenly get agitated.


    Josie felt the surrounding gazes and gave him a meaningful nce as she was being humiliated. React


    a little, man!


    ¡°I said I had too much to drink.¡± Dexter was slightly impatient and anxious as he defended himself.


    ¡°How could you sleep with her if you had too much to drink? I think you just wanted to have an affair.


    Even if I give up seven years of my life for a dog, the dog will guard my house. What about you? I


    stayed with you through tough times, and you¡¯re fooling around with other women now that you¡¯re


    better off! What do you treat me as?!¡±


    Josie spoke tearfully. She was in character and threw her cup on the floor. She watched the woman in


    a red dress at the bar out of the corner of her eye.


    The woman dropped what she was doing and looked over.


    ¡°It was an ident. I love you. You love me too, don¡¯t you? Why can¡¯t we put this behind us and start


    afresh?!¡±


    Pff


    Josie sighed in admiration when she heard it. He¡¯s a pretty talented actor.


    ¡°How can we start afresh? When I see you now, all I think about is you and that woman in bed. You


    disgust me. Go away. I want to break up with you. Get lost!¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    ¡°Beat it!¡±


    Josie privately signaled Dexter, and he returned to normal as he left.


    He sat in a car parked by the roadside and immediately took out hisptop. He cleared his throat. ¡°Let¡¯s


    start.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s hesitant voice rang. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you done with your matters?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Mm. I am.¡±


    At that moment, Josie was crying as she crouched on the ground. Soon, the woman in red walked over


    and put a coat around her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, girl. It¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    Josie looked up tearfully. ¡°Thank you¡­ Actually, I want to forgive him. These seven years are too


    important to me, but I really¡­ can¡¯t get over it¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ve forgotten my manners.¡±


    Josie yed the role of a woman who had been cheated on in great detail.


    The woman¡¯s lips curved, and she gave Josie a ss of wine. ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel sad or regret.


    Men are like this. They love you when they need you and treat you like a burden when they don¡¯t¡±


    ¡°Mm¡­ Oh, by the way. You are¡­..¡±


    ¡°I am the boss of this caf¨¦. You can call me Ms. Jones.¡± Ms. Jones had an elegant demeanor and was


    slightly unbridled. ¡°I thought you¡¯two were very well¨Cmatched when I saw you walking in, but I never


    thought such a thing had happened behind the scenes.¡±


    Josie forced a smile, but she silently felt apologetic to Dexter.


    And the man in question was in the car, listening to his employees¡® reports. Still, his gaze was fixed on


    the woman talking happily to Ms. Jones in the caf¨¦. Around ten minutester, she walked out in a daze


    and opened the car door before immediately turning lively.


    ¡°Haha, Mr. Russell. How is my acting? Aren¡¯t I very talented?¡±


    Dexter pressed a key and muted himself on the video call. He taunted her coldly, ¡°It¡¯s a shame you¡¯re


    not


    an actor.¡±


    He reacted quickly, but the people in the meeting had heard a fleeting woman¡¯s voice and seemed to


    beughing.


    Is he with a woman?


    Ivy, who was sitting in and taking meeting minutes, gripped her pen tightly. It was as though there was


    a venomous snake in her heart!


    ¡°I have to say that your acting needs more work. It was too stiff!¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve never cheated. How would I know how to y that role?¡±


    ¡°Have you never watched television dramas?¡±


    ¡°¡­No.¡±


    ¡°Your life is so boring!¡± It was unimaginable to Josie.


    Dexter was just about to answer when a voice came from hisptop. ¡°¡­ Mr. Russell, is anything wrong


    withThis content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    what I said?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened. Is he in a meeting?


    Sol¡­ 3

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65


    Chapter 65 You Didn''t Give Me a Chance to Speak


    Dexter unmuted himself. ¡°No. I want to talk about a few points.¡±


    As he spoke seriously, Josie covered her mouth throughout. She feared others would hear her. As the


    man said words she didn¡¯t understand, his mischievous gaze met hers.


    She suddenly felt like she had done something wrong, and it made her tremble.


    ¡°That¡¯s all for today.¡±


    When the meeting ended, Josie breathed a sigh of relief. She wailed in despair, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me


    beforehand that you were in a meeting? I¡­ You¡­ I¡­ They must have heard it all!¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t tell her the truth. ¡°You didn¡¯t give me a chance to speak.¡±


    ¡°What should we do?!¡±


    Dexter was disdainful yet assertive when he saw her being so anxious. ¡°So what if there¡¯s a woman


    next to me? They would only find it strange if I didn¡¯t have a woman with me.¡±


    ¡°No¡­The main point is that I¡­ Never mind, you won¡¯t understand it!¡± Josie had a dismayed


    expression.


    Dexter suddenlyughed. ¡°Tsk. I seemed to have forgotten to leave the call.¡±


    Josie was enraged at that moment, and she immediately looked over at hisptop. It was nk, and


    only the desktop was shown. He wasn¡¯t on a call anymore.


    She waved her hands in frustration. ¡°Dexter Russell! You¡¯re so childish!¡± He was bored enough to y


    a joke on her!


    Dexter put hisrge hand on her iling head. His voice was rxed. ¡°How was your talk with her?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell her my identity because I must progress slowly. I wille for the next few days.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯reing again?¡±


    Josie mistook his question for impatience, and she immediately said, ¡°I cane alone next time.¡±


    The sound of waves on the sand was pleasing to the ears. He asked, ¡°What about Justin?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ This is so far away from Russell Group. He shouldn¡¯t be able to find me. And he hasn¡¯t appeared


    for the past few days. Perhaps he said he would kill me to frighten me.¡±


    Josie analyzed clearly and logically. She was embarrassed for constantly troubling Dexter.


    ¡°It¡¯s because of your carelessness that bad luck never leaves you. If every bad person in the world was


    like you, no bad people would be left,¡± Dexter snorted coldly as he drove away quickly.


    Josie immediately put on her seatbelt. ¡°Then¡­ Then ask your driver toe with me. He¡¯s tall and


    strong. There won¡¯t be any problems if he¡¯s protecting me.¡±


    The irritation in Dexter¡¯s heart continued increasing. ¡°Whatever!¡±


    How strange. Dexter was fine just now. Why is he suddenly getting angry?


    Josie had promised Ms. Jones that she woulde daily to chat and relieve her depressed mood.


    Ms. Jones was a good person. She kept urging Josie not to do anything to hurt herself, no matter how


    sad she was.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel slightly guilty when she thought about it. Lying was terrible, after all.


    When Josie was prepared to head there again the next day, she saw a familiar figure in the car. Dexter


    was leaning in the backseat with his eyes closed. Surprised, she asked cautiously, ¡°I thought the driver


    was going to send me¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking. I just happened to get off work.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s so early. Don¡¯t you usually work until ten¡­¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You talk too much. Do you want to go?¡± Dexter opened his eyes and interrupted her questions.


    Josie immediately stopped. ¡°Yes!¡±


    Actually, she would feel more at ease if Dexter was with her. And for some reason, she felt better after


    he snapped at her.


    Can this be a sense of security? She looked down and broke intoughter.

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66


    Chapter 66 I Hope He''s Well


    Josie yed full well the role of a woman who had been cheated on. Ms. Jones would make her a drink


    every night. ¡°Go home and sleep well after you finish this drink.¡±


    Josiey on the bar and asked in disappointment, ¡°Have you been in love, Ms. Jones?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ??


    She saw Ms. Jones suddenlyugh. ¡°At my age, of course, I have.¡±


    ¡°Is there anyone you can¡¯t let go off? Someone you can¡¯t forget.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Yes.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it. You¡¯ve listened to me rant so much. It¡¯s time for you to tell your story,¡± Josie said


    gently.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost like your situation.¡± Ms. Jonesughed bitterly. ¡°I grew up with a man but was dumped.¡±


    Josie pretended to be speechless. ¡°No wonder you understand men so well. How long were you with


    him?¡±


    ¡°Eight years.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Do you still love him now?¡±


    Ms. Jones nced at Josie andughed in exasperation. ¡°You¡¯re really a young girl. It¡¯s been three


    years since we broke up. How can I still love him?¡±


    ¡°Not necessarily. Although some people might not love their exes anymore, their exes may have a


    special ce in their hearts. Is that true for you?¡±


    Ms. Jones hesitated slightly and nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    It was easier for Josie if Ms. Jones said yes. After all, Ms. Jones had feelings of her own.


    ¡°What kind of a man is he?¡±


    ¡°Actually, he¡¯s wless.¡± Ms. Jones was caught up in her memories. ¡°He treated me well. When we


    were broke, he would buy me a small cake even if he had to skip a meal. I had everything other women


    did. After he got rich, he was willing to spend on me. He bought me a car and a house and gave my


    family hundreds of thousands in cash. He was even willing to give me the original stocks in his


    company.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°But he still¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes. I was very hurt at that time. Who could I trust if someone who loved me so much could cheat on


    me? Back then, I felt what you¡¯re feeling now, so I understand your feelings. Even if you reconcile with


    him now, I would understand.¡±


    Josie was at a loss for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ms. Jones¡­¡±


    ¨C¡°It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s in the past.¡±


    ¡°Do you have any regrets about him?¡±


    Ms. Jones thought about it. ¡°I hope he¡¯s doing well.¡±


    After walking out of the caf¨¦, Josie felt slightly dazed. This time, she wasn¡¯t pretending.


    She walked for a while and realized Dexter was leaning against the car and looking at a girl fishing by


    the road. There was an imperceptible smile in the corners of his mouth.


    Josie walked over and sighed. ¡°Men are disgusting.¡±


    Dexter looked at her from the side and was displeased at her indiscriminate generalization. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Is every man like this? Even if they don¡¯t change, they can¡¯t restrain the desire in their hearts after they


    gain power! At the end of the day, they lose what¡¯s most precious to them!¡± Josie berated indignantly.


    ¡°Not me.¡±


    Josie was about to retort when she raised her head and saw his smooth lower jawline. She paused.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯ve always been powerful. How would you have any


    desires?¡±


    Dexter was speechless and pushed her head. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°No. I want to vent my anger!¡±


    After that, she walked to a barbeque stall at the side. ¡°I want this and this. This one, too. And this one


    as well!¡±


    When she turned and saw Dexter¡¯s confusion, she added, ¡°I want turnip too.¡±


    The fragrance spread far and wide, and her food was ready shortly. Josie pulled Dexter and sat at a


    table. ¡°Do you eat these?¡±


    The small table had no space for Dexter¡¯s long legs. He furrowed his brows. ¡°I don¡¯t eat everything.¡±

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67


    Chapter 67 She''s Married


    Josie didn¡¯t insist. The higher social sses had refined tastes. Dexter was willing to try street food for


    once, but not necessarily the second time.


    So, she enjoyed the barbecued squid happily herself. The squid was fresh and juicy. ¡°I regretted it, Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    ¡°Regret what?¡±


    ¡°Those memories have caused deep pain for Ms. Jones, yet I¡¯ve been trying to approach her and


    remind her of the past. This seems hical.¡± Josie felt pangs of remorse. In fact, she, seldom felt


    sorry for her clients over the years. She had no sympathy for them and only focused on the


    commission. Nothing mattered as long as she could close the deal.


    However, this time was different. Shannon spent eight years in the rtionship. Not only was she hurt


    deeply by the scumbag, but she also had to return his stuff to him, allowing him to garner the benefits.


    That was unfair!


    When the smell of seafood wafted into Dexter¡¯s nose, he subconsciously wanted to rub his temples but


    put his hand down after reaching it out halfway.


    ¡°Do you remember the full name of Ms. Jones?¡±


    Josie stopped chewing her food and answered, ¡°Shannon Jones.¡±


    Dexter picked up the wooden skewers Josie ced on the table and broke them casually. ¡°The owner


    of Kennon Corporation is Kenny Green. He¡¯s single.¡±


    Josie had heard of Kenny¡¯s name but never thought of the origin of thepany¡¯s name. ¡°D*mn! So


    thepany is named after both of them?¡±


    Seeing the barbecue sauce stain on Josie¡¯s mouth, Dexter wasn¡¯t disgusted but added indifferently,


    ¡°Shannon Jones is a married woman.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Josie was shocked to hear her assumption overturned. She grabbed Dexter¡¯s wrist and


    asked, ¡°Really? How did you know?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer but stared at her slender hand. Indeed, obtaining this information was a piece of


    cake for an influential man like him.


    ¡°So, Ms. Jones has let go of the past and has gotten married, but Kenny Green couldn¡¯t get over her,


    so he named thepany after them. He was the one who couldn¡¯t let it go. But since Ms. Jones has


    already moved on, why wouldn¡¯t she give the IP copyright to ire?¡±


    Dexter only received the rted information on his phone half an hour ago. Josie was surprised that he


    was aware of so many facts. ¡°Mr. Russell, why are you suddenly interested in a smallpany¡¯s


    affair?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dexter typed his reply on his phone with one hand. ¡°To help my employee achieve her sales.


    Josie was a quick¨Cwitted woman. She soon figured it out as she babbled on. ¡°¡­ which means I should


    target Mr. Green instead of Ms. Jones. I got it now!¡±


    her


    After wiping her hand with a napkin, Josie was about to leave, but she suddenly realized that would


    make appear ungrateful. So, she sat down again with a smile. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you sure you don¡¯t want


    to have some? The seafood here is fresh. Why don¡¯t you pick some items that you like? I¡¯ll buy the


    meal


    today.¡±


    It was rare for the stingy Josie to make an offer.


    However, Dexter replied aloofly, ¡°I¡¯m allergic to seafood.¡±


    Josie stood dumbfounded at the spot. Oh shucks! I forgot about that!


    Dexter stood up and threw the broken skewers into a rubbish bin. ¡°You¡¯re the most irresponsible


    employee I hired.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ forgot to bring the paper today.¡± Josie mumbled. Then, she took the box of turnips and caught up


    with Dexter. ¡°What about some turnips? Please try some, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter frowned when he was presented with the box of stir¨Cfried turnips. He had heard of this


    ingredient but never tried it due to its root¨Clike appearance.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68


    Chapter 68 Settled the Project


    Josie beamed from ear to ear under the street light. ¡°Try some?¡±


    Dexter was hesitant while Josie picked a piece of turnip with her hand and sent it to his mouth. The


    moment he chewed it, a weird taste filled his mouth. He coughed and instantly spat it on the beach.


    With that, the wave washed away the bean sprout.


    Josie burst intoughter. Previously, Dexter had teased her several times, and it was finally her turn


    today.


    Dexter wiped the corner of his lips with his finger and turned to see Josie¡¯s long hair blowing in the sea


    breeze. She covered her stomach as sheughed, emanating a lively, refreshing aura.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    If Leanne were still here, she would have grown into a woman like her.


    Josie¡¯s smile faded when she noticed Dexter staring at her intently. She apologized readily, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Dexter averted his gaze. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Josie was surprised that Dexter wasn¡¯t irritated.


    After going home, Josie immediately searched for information rted to Kenny and made an


    appointment with his assistant.


    Kennon Corporation was a rtively new, moderate¨Cscaledpany. Josie was thirsty, sitting in the


    meeting room.


    Kenny was a middle¨Caged man. He behaved in aposed manner and exuded the charm of a


    mature man. He said in a quandary, ¡°I understand your meaning, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie nodded. Her effort to exin the situation to him was not in vain.


    Kenny uttered bitterly, ¡°However, I¡¯ve not seen her for three years. She hates me, so I¡¯m sure she won¡¯t


    transfer the copyright to me. ording to your description, since you¡¯ve already obtained her trust, why


    don¡¯t you continue engaging her?¡±


    The sun was scorching hot in the afternoon. Josie could feel the heat from the sun that shone on her


    back through the window.


    ¡°Mr. Green, I asked Ms. Jones if she has any regrets toward you. Guess what she said?¡±


    Kenny sped his hands together anxiously. ¡°What did she say?¡±


    ¡°She hopes all is well with you.¡±


    Kenny was relieved and surprised.


    ¡°The designer from ourpany approached Ms. Jones but failed to persuade her. I reckon even if I


    ask her personally, I might not be able to get it. But things might be different if you ask her.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I¡­ Is the copyright that important to you? You can explore other avenues¡­¡±


    ¡°Kenny, what¡¯s your fear?¡± Josie interrupted Kenny and called him by his first name. Kenny was


    startled.


    ¡°You don¡¯t dare to meet her.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°You betrayed the woman who loved you the most but didn¡¯t dare to face her. Her eight years became


    a joke because of you, yet you avoided her. What a coward.¡±


    Kenny remained silent in acquiescence.


    ¡°She¡¯s married. You should meet her onest time, even if it¡¯s not for the copyright.¡± Josie yed her


    trump card. The man before her was surprised and showed a hint of loss as a sudden realization hit


    him.


    Back in Mason Garden, Josie received a call from Shannon after she came out from the bath.


    Shannon momentarily remained silent and mocked, ¡°It turns out you guys are business partners.¡±


    It seems like Kenny has gone to meet her.


    Josie was at a loss for words to defend herself. Every rtionship would be impure when it was


    associated with interest. True enough, her motive was impure.


    ¡°He cried in front of me today, saying he¡¯ll regret it for a lifetime. My hatred was suddenly gone when I


    saw him teared up. He can never forget me ¨C this is the cruelest punishment. So, I¡¯ve decided to let go


    of the copyright. My assistant will engage you tomorrow. Congrats, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Shannon¡¯s tone was tinged with sarcasm and dismay.

 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69


    Josie stiffened for some time before mumbling, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ms. Jones. I admit ¨C I backstabbed you out


    of my personal interest. Please ept my sincere apologies.¡±


    A softughter emerged on the other end, apanied by the sound of the sea breeze. ¡°I don¡¯t me


    you. He might nevere to meet me if it weren¡¯t for you. Now, I can finally move on. You¡¯re a kind


    girl. I believe you can design a cover that can touch people¡¯s hearts.¡±


    Josie was relieved to be acknowledged by Shannon. She could only keep thanking her.


    Suddenly, Shannon asked, ¡°The man with you that day isn¡¯t your boyfriend, am I right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ He¡¯s my boss.¡± Josie was embarrassed.


    Shannonughed. ¡°Your acting skill has room for improvement.¡±


    After hanging up the call, Josie remained in a daze for a moment before she squealed in excitement


    and trotted to Dexter¡¯s room. She knocked on his door, hoping to share her happiness with him.


    Dexter was about to go to bed. When he opened his door to see the woman whose face turned red


    from excitement, he was stunned. ¡°Don¡¯t say anything first.¡±


    Josie nodded.


    ¡°Did you obtain the copyright?¡± Dexter asked astutely.


    Josie jumped with exhration and couldn¡¯t hide her joy. ¡°I can finally start my design! I¡¯ve gotten the


    project!¡±


    Leaning against the door, Dexter wore a subtle smile. Josie embraced him excitedly and quickly let go


    of him.


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Russell. If it weren¡¯t for you, things wouldn¡¯t have gone so smoothly. Oh my gosh! I¡¯m


    so happy!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s body froze for a second as the warm sensation left him. He smiled and said, ¡°Congrats.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow¡¯s weekend. Grandpa asked us to go back for a meal.¡±


    Josie answered naturally, ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll get ready.¡±


    Just then, she sensed something strange. She lifted her face to meet Dexter¡¯s gaze, which was filled


    with gentleness and even adoration.


    It felt natural, as if they were husband and wife who had been married for years¡­


    Dexter, too, noticed the change in the atmosphere. He let out a cough and took a step back. ¡°Have a


    goodnight.¡±


    Josie stood numbly at the spot as her heart pounded heavily. She almost fell for his gentle gaze just


    now! Why did he show such emotions?


    That night, Josie had a dream ¨C Dexter and Josie were strolling by the beach, holding hands on an


    ordinary night. He told her they would be together forever.


    Josie couldn¡¯t see his face clearly in the dream but was certain that the man was Dexter, despite


    knowing he couldn¡¯t possibly be so gentle and patient with her.


    The dream felt surreal as if it happened in reality.


    The next day, the sun had risen when Josie woke up. Her cheeks blushed uncontrobly. What on


    earth are you thinking about, Josie? He¡¯s Dexter Russell! How can you have improper thoughts toward


    him?!


    Just then, Julie knocked on her door. ¡°Mrs. Russell, are you awake? It¡¯s time to go.¡±


    Josie quickly got out of bed to wash up and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Dexter?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell has been waiting for you for some time.¡±


    Only then did Josie realize she had overslept! After dressing up, she hurriedly put on the ring and


    bracelet. When she went downstairs, she saw Dexter, who wore a casual white blouse and a pair of


    ck pants, standing in front of the window, emanating a warm aura.


    She hurried downstairs and panted, ¡°Sorry. missed the rm.¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes; he rarely saw Josie in a flustered state. ¡°No worries. Let¡¯s go.¡±

 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70


    Josie felt uneasy throughout the journey due to the dream. Sitting beside Dexter, she didn¡¯t know


    where to ce her hand and was experiencing shortness of breath.


    After settling some tasks on his phone, Dexter looked at the bracelet on Josie¡¯s wrist. ¡°You¡¯re getting


    more


    used to it now.¡±


    Realizing what Dexter was talking about, Josie pointed at the ring on his ring finger. ¡°You too. Practice


    makes perfect.¡±


    Following that was a suffocating silence.


    As soon as they reached Russell Mansion, Josie immediately got out of the car because she couldn¡¯t


    stay beside Dexter anymore. However, she walked too fast and identally sprained her left ankle.


    She lost her bnce and nearly fell to the ground.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the hurry?¡± At that very second, Dexter supported her waist with his strong arm and pulled her


    into his


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    arms.


    Josie was stunned to see Dexter¡¯s worried look. She quickly pulled away from his arms and muttered,


    ¡°I¨CI¡¯m okay.¡±


    Suddenly, Henry¡¯s cheerful voice emerged from the entrance. ¡°What a sweet couple.¡±


    Josie waved her hands and wanted to exin, but Dexter pulled her back into his arms and said,


    ¡°Grandpa, Jo identally sprained her ankle. Do you have some ointment?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Quickly bring Jo in.¡± Henry stopped teasing them and ordered Marilyn to retrieve the


    ointment. Dexter carried Josie in his arms and strode into the house. Josie subconsciously encircled


    his neck with her arms and stared nkly at his jawline.


    ¡°Actually¡­ I can walk on my own.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead if you want to fall down.¡± Dexter frowned in anger.


    Josie didn¡¯t dare to say a word.


    After Dexter ced her on the couch, Marilyn brought the first¨Caid kit and passed the ointment to


    Dexter. ¡°Are you okay?¡± she asked.


    Henry was worried sick. ¡°Shall we send you to the hospital?¡±


    Josie was amused. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Grandpa. It¡¯s just a minor sprain. It won¡¯t take long to recover.¡±


    Dexter crouched at the side and spread the ointment on his hand before massaging Josie¡¯s ankle.


    Josie¡¯s ankle was so thin that he could easily encircle it with one hand. He paused his hand


    momentarily on Josie¡¯s ankle and massaged it professionally.


    Perhaps it was due to psychological effects; the pain dissipated as Josie felt the warm sensation in her


    ankle.


    Noticing Josie¡¯s gaze, Dexter lifted his eyes and reprimanded her, ¡°You should be more careful.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Josie felt like a child being reprimanded by her father aftermitting a mistake.


    Henry smiled mysteriously at the side andforted Josie. ¡°Don¡¯t take it to heart. Dex always speaks


    like this. He seems to be angry but is actually worried about you. He¡¯s angry because he cares.¡±


    Really? Josie cast an inquisitive gaze at Dexter, but thetter didn¡¯t look at her and went to wash his


    hands.


    Oh well, I guess so.


    Josie uttered with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa. I know Dex well.¡±


    Henry beamed from ear to ear.


    Josie hadn¡¯t seen Henry for half a month and was concerned about his health. She held his hands and


    exhorted him repeatedly to take his medication on time and get enough rest. She wasn¡¯t putting on an


    act. She liked the old man not only because he was kind and loving but because he also treated Josie


    genuinely. As such, Josie willingly cared for Henry, even if it wasn¡¯t for Dexter¡¯s sake.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a grandfather. I treat you like my own grandfather.¡±


    Dexter was returning after washing his hand when he heard her words, and he halted his step.


    ¡°Oh. Did your grandfather pass away when you were young?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t intend to exin her situation, so she nodded readily.


    ¡°I see. It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll be your grandfather from now on.¡± Henry already liked Josie, but his affection for her


    grew deeper upon hearing what she said.

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71


    Chapter 71 Call Him Dad


    Dexter waited for them to finish speaking before approaching Josie from behind. He helped her tidy her


    hair and said, ¡°Incredible. You snatched Grandpa from me with hardly any effort.¡±


    He spoke in a half¨Cjoking tone and moved closer to Josie¡¯s ear.


    Josie speedily analyzed his actions to determine whether he was acting or sincere. The result mattered


    to her, but unfortunately, she could not conclude.


    ¡°Nonsense, you and Josie are married and are a family. How can you still be arguing who owns what?¡±


    Henry raised his cane and scolded.


    Dexter raised his eyebrows and smiled as if to humor a child. ¡°Sure, we are family.¡±


    Josie could not help but smile. Their interactions made her feel like she was Dexter¡¯s wife.


    Dexter thought to carry her to the dining table since she sprained her ankle. However, Josie gently


    pressed his hand as he got up.


    ¡°I can walk on my own. You don¡¯t have to trouble yourself.¡± Moreover, that kind of close contact made


    her flustered.


    Dexter pressed his hand on the back of her head and whispered, ¡°Grandpa¡¯s watching.¡±


    Although they separated quickly after the conversation, Henry could only see they were very much in


    love. That calmed his worries.


    During dinner, Henry asked about Josie¡¯s family situation. ¡°Dex mentioned your father is still


    hospitalized. Is he better now?¡±


    ¡°No, the doctor said recovery will take time. It depends on God¡¯s will,¡± Josie replied frankly.


    ¡°I see¡­¡± Henry pondered briefly before continuing, ¡°You two have been married for some time but


    haven¡¯t had a wedding dinner. Moreover, I haven¡¯t met your parents. What about I arrange a time to


    visit your father? Even though he is unconscious, I believe he will be happy to hear you have married.¡±


    Josie jumped in shock. Her father would be furious if he had known that she got married without his


    permission.


    She nced at Dexter with panic in her eyes before waving her hand. ¡°No, you mustn¡¯t. You¡¯re not


    feeling well, so it¡¯s not wise to go out, especially to a hospital.¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m much better now. Don¡¯t worry. We mustn¡¯t skip on some basic social courtesies.¡±


    Dexter calmly ced a bowl of soup before Josie.


    ¡°The doctor said her father¡¯s condition improved considerably. I believe it is only a matter of time before


    he wakes up. Once he does, we can organize a meeting for everyone to meet properly. What do you


    think?¡± Dexter exined steadily.


    Henry considered and thought Dexter¡¯s words made sense. Still, he scolded, ¡°You little brat. What do


    you mean by her father? Didn¡¯t I say you and Josie are now a family? Her father is now your father.


    You should call him Dad!¡±


    Josie widened her eyes and was stunned by Henry¡¯s words.


    (


    How would I dare to make Dexter call my father Dad?


    ¡°Erm, Grandpa¡­¡±


    However, Dexter grabbed Josie¡¯s hand under the table and stopped her. ¡°I forgot. I¡¯ll do as you said.¡±


    His response made Henry even happier.


    Josie felt conflicted and turned to Dexter.


    After the meal, Josie and Dexter headed to the room on the second floor.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to take what Grandpa said to heart. There¡¯s no need for you to call my father Dad.¡±


    Josie sat on the soft bed and worried he would misunderstand.


    Dexter turned on hisptop and had to deal with sudden work matters. ¡°Grandpa is right. We are a


    family in a sense. It doesn¡¯t matter that I address your father as Dad.¡±


    Does it really not matter? Dexter was usually againstthis kind of thing.


    Josie sprawled on the bed. ¡°You have work?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I have to review an urgent project.¡±


    Josie stopped disturbing him. She wondered if it was because she had just eaten. Sprawling on the


    bed made her feel sleepy.


    Initially, she was able to resist. Sheter caved in and instantly fell asleep.


    Dexter wondered why she was so quiet and nced to the side. He found her hugging a pillow and


    sleeping soundly.


    She was only around a few dozen centimeters away from him.

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72


    Chapter 72 An Old Photo


    Dexter looked at her for a while and smiled. He did not mind seeing such a scene.


    Likely due to not having enough sleepst night, Josie slept soundly and woke up to find it was already


    three in the afternoon. She rubbed her bleary eyes and noticed Dexter was still seated in the same spot


    and busy with work.


    ¡°How long did I sleep?¡±


    Dexter raised his wrist to look at the watch. ¡°Three hours.¡±


    Josie scratched her head in embarrassment and thought she had slept too long. ¡°Are you done with


    work? When will we be leaving?¡±


    ¡°Soon.¡±


    Must he keep replying so curtly? How boring.


    Josie was bored as shey in bed. She briefly pondered Kennon Corporation¡¯s cover design on her


    phone. Then, seeing Dexter was still busy with work, she limped around the room to check it out.


    She was in a rushst time and did not have a chance to look at the room closely.


    After a while, Josie found a study next to the bedroom. It was connected directly to the room. There


    was a wall full of books. The shelves also contained a few interesting things.


    ¡°Dexter, can I go in for a look?¡± Josie leaned against the wall.


    Dexter did not seem to mind. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    He grew up in Russell Mansion and still kept many things there.


    Josie sat on the floor and saw arge box. She opened it and found that it contained toys from


    childhood.


    She picked up a slingshot and mumbled, ¡°He¡¯s no different from an ordinary kid when he was little.


    Why is he so different as an adult.¡±


    Then, she searched deeper into the box and found a colorful girl¡¯s hair tie. Sheughed at her find. It


    was hard to imagine Dexter ying with a girl as a kid.


    The box also contained a half¨Cused pencil, cards with good wishes, and¡­ a photo.


    The photo was stuck at the bottom of the box and gathered dust. Josie brushed off the dust and found


    Henry in the photo.


    Henry looked younger in it. Two children were standing beside him. The boy was good¨Clooking and


    smiling happily as he held the girl¡¯s hand.


    Josie frowned as she looked at it.


    Why does the girl look like me?


    I don¡¯t mean how I look now. She resembles me when I was a kid!


    The resemnce was so uncanny that Josie¡¯s hand trembled.


    12


    i


    However, she knew that girl could not have been her as she did not know Dexter as a kid and had


    never


    been here.


    Could there be such a coincidence?


    Before Josie could consider further, heavy footsteps sounded outside the study. ¡°I¡¯m done. What are


    you doing?¡±


    Dexter suddenly fell silent when he discovered Josie sitting on the floor with a photo in her hand.


    Suddenly, fury clouded his initially gentle gaze. He dashed forward, snatched the photo from Josie, and


    shouted, ¡°Who allowed you to touch it!¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Josie stood up immediately. The sudden movement left her ankle in pain. This time, Dexter did not


    reach out to support her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t know. I took it without thinking.¡±


    Dexter checked the photo and confirmed it was undamaged. Then, he put it back into the box and


    closed the lid before turning to Josie sternly. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t touch things that are not yours. Did your


    parents never teach you this?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. She had no chance to exin and could only apologize. ¡°I didn¡¯t n to¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough! Our rtionship is not so close that you can pry into my private affairs. Josie, don¡¯t forget that


    what we have is only a business deal. You should know your ce.¡±


    After saying that, Dexter hugged the box and left the study. It seemed that box was important to him.


    Perhaps even more precious than his life.


    Josie stood quietly for a while. Once she came to her senses, she touched her face and found it wet.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She had been crying. D

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    Chapter 73


    Chapter 73 A Substitute


    +15 Bonus


    Marilyn went upstairs to find her. As she didn¡¯t see Josie in the main bedroom, she went into the study


    to look for her. When she finally arrived, she was startled at the sight of Josie, whose features were all


    clouded into a shape of despair and disappointment.


    Marilyn was flustered to see her in that state. She slowly approached her and said, ¡°Josie, Dex has


    already left the house. I¡¯ll call a taxi to send you back home: Is that okay?¡±


    Josie closed her eyes. She had too much pride to drop her dignity.


    She believed he would let his guard down and show care and patience to her. She also thought that he


    would be the one to save her whenever she was in danger, proving that she was someone special to


    him.


    But she misunderstood him.


    Dexter was wise beyond his years, and nothing could bring him down as he faced his problems


    fearlessly. With his intellect, it would take a few lifetimes to be up to par with him. Josie assumed that


    he only helped her out of kindness.


    Everything seemed clear as day to Josie as she pondered over his actions.


    Dexter looked like apletely different person when he was fuming with anger. His calm and


    composed demeanor had disappeared, and his deep eyes narrowed into an icy cold re when he


    looked at her.


    As she continued to ruminate, realization dawned upon her. There was no meaning attached to his


    help. To him, she was only as significant as the grass by the street that would never amount to anything


    significant.


    ¡°Jo?¡± Marilyn called her worriedly.


    Josie pressed her lips into a tight¨Clipped smile and replied, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go downstairs after packing.¡±


    Before she left the Russell Mansion, Old Mr. Russell fidgeted as he mulled over his thoughts before


    finally speaking up, ¡°Kid, it must¡¯ve been hard for you, but it¡¯ll get better over time. Dex is still hurt from


    the past. Please understand him,¡± he rted as he patted Josie¡¯s hands.


    How could she have a future with Dexter? After epting the reality, Josie summoned up a smile,


    saying, ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m not having a hard time. I understand it¡¯s hard for him.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell let out a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Could I know what¡¯s the girl¡¯s name?¡±


    She went straight to the point, putting Old Mr. Russell on the spot. ¡°She¡¯s Leanne. She grew up with


    Dex and was kind and considerate like you.¡±


    Josie went silent. She must be a nice girl if she¡¯s receiving such high praise from Grandpa.


    In the car, Josie recalled the face of the girl in the photo. As she noticed how Old Mr. Russell avoided


    revealing too much about the girl, Josie concluded that Leanne was the girl who went missing. She was


    someone Dexter cared about a lot.


    They were childhood friends. But why did she end up disappearing? And why did she look identical to


    her?


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    It was raining heavily. The raindrops tapped on the windows, obscuring the views outside. The skies


    went dark as night approached, but the road was lit up with the glistening reflection of the raindrops


    under the headlights.


    Josie leaned her head on the window, feeling torn about everything that had happened. Did Dexter


    marry her because of her face? All his care and warmth towards her was misdirected, thanks to the girl


    who looked exactly like her.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie snorted at the thought. It must¡¯ve been the truth. Or else, how did she expect to gain his affection


    with her mediocre abilities and looks?


    His true colors were revealed when heshed out at her.


    She was only a substitute for Leanne.


    When she returned to Mason Garden, Julie helped remove her drenched coat. ¡°Why didn¡¯t Mr. Russell


    come home together?¡±


    Josie turned around and nced at the garage. His car wasn¡¯t there.


    ¡°He hasn¡¯te home?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    The rain was getting heavier outside.


    Inside Russell Group¡¯s resting area on the top floor, the curtains were shut, and the surroundings were


    pitch ck. The sound of the wind and thunder echoed in the room as Dexter sat still on the sofa. The


    edges of his face stiffened. The darkness of the room enveloped him.

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74


    Chapter 74 Dex


    She had disappeared for thirteen years.


    It happened during a rainy day like this, as if the deluge would engulf the world.


    +15 Bonus


    It was their first day of school for the new year. Old Mr. Russell had repeatedly advised them to focus


    on their studies. He even reminded Leanne to look out for Dex so he wouldn¡¯t get into trouble at school.


    At that time, Dex was in ninth grade. He patted the girl¡¯s head andined, ¡°I should be looking out


    for her so she wouldn¡¯t get herself in trouble!¡±


    Despite his scornful remark, his face was stered with a wide smile.


    The girl beside him was unhappy with his teasing and jumped up to gently knock his head. ¡°How many


    times have your parents been called to school because of the fights you got into the past three years?


    I¡¯ve never once got in a fight! Grandpa, I¡¯ll make sure to guard him properly at school.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell was humored by their light banter andughed cheerfully, ¡°Leanne is a good girl. Dex


    has been listening to you since you were both young.¡±


    The headlights beamed downstairs, signaling to the rest that her driver was there to pick her boundless


    fog surrounded the night scenery as there was a heavy downpour.


    1. up. A


    Dexter held her hands when they went downstairs. At that time, he was already a young man who


    excelled in multiple areas and carried an air of pride with everyone around him. But she was the only


    exception. In front of her, he was gentle and patient.


    ¡°Dex, I¡¯ll get going now then. See you tomorrow!¡±


    Dexter opened the car door for her and replied with the corner of his lips lifted meaningfully, ¡°Alright,


    let¡¯s have the cafeteria¡¯s beef burger for lunch together.¡±


    Her eyes were gleaming with excitement.


    The car disappeared into the foggy night in no time.


    It was thest time they saw each other.


    For thest thirteen years, he has been searching for her, but he has not been able to find any leads on


    where she might be. It was like she had disappeared into thin air. After this incident, his family also lost


    touch with her family.


    Dexter sat on the sofa for a long time, slowly drifting into a dream of a scene he had longed for.


    ¡°Mom! Mom! Please take me with you! I want to follow you!¡±


    The boy¡¯s voice traveled with the wind, leaving silence in its wake.


    The ck car was speeding along without realizing that a boy was running after it from behind. The boy


    lost sight of it after it made a turn.


    Dexter was only seven years old. He had tripped on the tarred road, and his hands were bleeding from


    his fall. His tears fell onto his wound, but the pain couldn¡¯t bepared to the excruciating weight on


    his chest.


    1/2


    Chapter 74 Dex


    His mother had abandoned him.


    +15 Bonus


    Dexter was a reserved and calm boy since young. He rarely cried, knowing he would be hated if he


    threw a fit. As he was reminded of that, he quickly wiped his tears and pleaded with blood smeared


    over his face, ¡°Mom, I won¡¯t cry. Would youe back if I stopped crying?¡±


    At that moment, a car was approaching from behind and stopped beside him. He lifted his head and


    called, ¡°Mom¡­¡±


    But he saw a little girl in a tiny ball gown holding onto a doll as she exited the car.


    ¡°What happened?¡± The little girl reached out her hand and spoke with a sweet and gentle voice, ¡°You¡¯re


    hurt. Let me help you up.¡±


    Seven¨Cyear¨Cold Dexter red at this girl he hadn¡¯t seen before without saying a single word until his


    grandfather¡¯s employee carried him away.


    Since then, he would always see her as she lived near him and went to the same school.


    ¡°Hello, you can call me Leanne. I just moved here, and I haven¡¯t found a new friend. I live close to you.


    Would you be my friend and y with me?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your name? I heard them call you Dex. Can I call you Dex too?¡±All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75


    Chapter 75 Old Wounds


    Dexter didn¡¯t like making new friends, but she wouldn¡¯t leave him alone.


    +15 Bonus


    Their families had a good rtionship with each other. Hence, he would see her almost every day. Old


    Mr, Russell adored her dearly and advised Dexter, ¡°Leanne¡¯s family is still new to the area. We have to


    help them out. She¡¯s younger than you, so be a nice older brother and take her outside to y, alright?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to y with her.¡±


    As soon as he said that, her sweet voice was heard from downstairs, ¡°Dex, it¡¯s time to go to school!¡±


    Dexter covered his ears and kept silent.


    Her family was busy and didn¡¯t have time to pick her up from school. They had to rely on the Russell


    Family to take her home after school.


    It was raining that day. Dexter ran back home by himself without waiting for her.


    There was no one at home. The sky had already turned dark by the time hepleted his homework.


    There was no noise downstairs, and the rain was still pouring heavily.


    He took a deep breath and ran out of his house with two umbres. Before long, he saw Leanne


    carrying her bag and walking under the rain. Her hair and clothes werepletely drenched. As she


    lifted her head, her eyes widened and sparkled with joy. When she realized Dexter wasn¡¯t angry with


    her, she delightedly ran over to him, calling, ¡°Dex!¡±


    Dexter passed her the umbre and muttered, ¡°Can¡¯t you wait for the rain to stop? You fool.¡±


    ¡°But no one else was in the school, so I had toe home alone. I thought something bad had


    happened to you. I got scared thinking about it. I¡¯m so happy you¡¯re okay, Dex.¡±


    Dexter felt his heart melt instantly from her sweet and pure intentions. He held her cold and wet hands


    and said gently, ¡°I¡¯ll take you home.¡±


    Their friendship bloomed on this rainy night.


    From the age of seven, until he turned fifteen, he watched himself and a little girl grow up together,


    witnessing her transformation into a lovely youngdy. He had thought that this wouldst forever. He


    wouldn¡¯t have minded if she was not epted into their preferred college, as he was willing to put up


    with a lesser¨Cknown school to be with her.


    But he couldn¡¯t have expected what would happen after. Over the course of one night, all of his hopes


    and dreams were shattered.


    After that rainy night, Dexter was traumatized, and his emotional wound wouldn¡¯t heal. No matter how


    many years had passed, the incident still lingered in his mind and continued to haunt him in his


    dreams.


    The rain stopped.


    Someone opened the door from the


    you¡­¡±


    tes and was startled to see him there. ¡°Mr. Russell? Why are


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    It was Ivy. She had never seen Dexter in such a pitiful and dreadful state. She couldn¡¯t believe her


    eyes.


    He wiped the tear at the of his eyes and growled, ¡°Leave.¡±


    corne


    O


    Outu


    Ivy stood glued to where she was. After a while, she walked towards him and asked worriedly, ¡°Mr.


    Russell, do you need my help? Let me know, and I¡¯ll try to figure out a way.¡± PUM


    Dexter snapped out of his grief and snorted at her without hesitation, ¡°You? You¡¯re not qualified.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart sank at his hurtful remark. In all the years she had worked with him, she had never been


    rejected in this outright manner.


    ¡°I understand I¡¯m not skilled and experienced enough to share your burden, but I¡¯m willing to do


    anything for you at yourmand.¡°.


    ¡°You¡¯re loyal, but it¡¯s useless.¡± Dexter stood up and noticed a hair tie on the floor.


    He paused for a moment. It wasn¡¯t Leanne¡¯s, so only one other person would leave it here.


    Ivy followed his gaze and noticed the hair tie from the corner of her eyes. A trail of envy and rage


    ¡®bloomed within her as she said, ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯ll get the ce cleaned up.¡±


    Dexter kept hisposure and went into the bathroom, saying, ¡°It has already been cleaned up.¡±


    The water was hitting the shower floor. Dexter¡¯s eyes immediately turned icy cold. He then squeezed


    tightly into the hair tie and threw it in the trash can.

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76


    Chapter 76 Completed Design


    Josie woke up early.


    +15 Bonus


    She was prepared and understood that Dexter wouldn¡¯t return. She could only head to Russell Group


    alone. Her thoughts were simple. If she woke up early enough, Justin couldn¡¯t catch her.


    She found it hard to believe he would stay up all night to wait for her.


    The bus station was empty early in the morning. Josie held her bag tightly and kept looking around,


    afraid that Justin would burst out from somewhere.


    At this time, she realized Dexter had recently given her a sense of security.


    Today, that feeling disappeared. Her worry increased instead.


    Josieughed at herself. Sure enough, she couldn¡¯t depend on men.


    Thankfully, Josie arrived at Russell Group safely. She put down her bag, and Alice came to her and


    asked affectionately, ¡°You don¡¯t look well. Did your husband do somethingst night¡­?¡±


    Josieughed lightly. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking.¡±


    ¡°Is it possible that your husband has an unmentionable illness? Jo, let me advise you. There are many


    men in this world. Don¡¯t get hung up on one. You¡¯re still young and pretty. You don¡¯t have to believe


    he¡¯s the only one for you.¡±


    This was useless advice early in the morning. Josie turned on herputer in exhaustion and started


    sketching. ¡°I understand the principles, but it¡¯s hard to apply them when I¡¯m going through it.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t afford to offend Dexter, at least for now.


    Alice wanted to continue chatting, but ire arrived at the office in a sheath dress with her bag, looking


    very feminine. When she passed by Josie¡¯s workstation, she stopped. ¡°Josie, did you get the


    copyrights?¡±


    She sounded disbelieving.


    Josie spread her hands and answered provokingly, ¡°Was it hard?¡±


    ire stared at Josie¡¯s halfpleted sketch and gritted her teeth. ire only nodded in the end.


    ¡°Good job.¡±


    ire mmed her office door viciously, and Alice almost fell to the floor fromughter. Josie was in a


    much better mood after that.


    There was a myth that those who were unlucky in love might have better luck in their careers.


    However, what she and Dexter had couldn¡¯t be considered love.


    Dexter hadn¡¯t returned to Mason Garden for days on end. Josie was clever, so she naturally didn¡¯t go to


    the top floor to ask him about it.


    She asionally saw him in his personal elevator when she used the public elevator. His long figure


    was thin and indifferent as usual. A group of people would be behind him while Ivy reported about work


    while holding documents. He would speak asionally and give his opinion.


    1/2


    Chapter 76 Completed Design


    He might be discussing partnerships worth hundreds of millions at any minute.


    Josie looked away and walked into the public elevator.


    No one was there when Dexter felt someone¡¯s gaze and turned around.


    +15 Bonus


    Josie invested all her time into her sketch. Kenny was very pleased with the final product. ¡°Ms. Warren,


    you¡¯re the right person for this job.¡±


    She integrated the IP and personal characteristics perfectly. It would be very appealing when it hit the


    market.


    ¡°Once the contract is approved, we will deposit the money immediately. By the way, Ms. Warren, can I


    buy you a meal as my way of saying thank you?¡±


    Josie smiled faintly on the phone. ¡°This is my job, and it¡¯s my duty. You don¡¯t have to thank me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not for work.¡±


    Josie paused. ¡°Alright. But you have to send me home after that.¡±


    Kenny agreed cheerfully.


    He chose a restaurant by the beach. The scenery was breathtaking in the evening.


    After ordering, Josie smiled. ¡°Elements of the sea were also included in the design suggestions from


    yourpany. You seem to have a special fondness for the sea, Mr. Green.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Kenny was a charming middle¨Caged man. He shook his head with a bitter smile. ¡°You should know that


    I¡¯m not fond of the sea. I¡¯m fond of her.¡±


    It seemed like he wasn¡¯t over the rtionship.

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77


    Chapter 77 Eavesdropping on a Secret


    The steak here was pretty good, and Josie ate to her heart¡¯s content She said. ¡°You have good


    qualifications, Mr. Green Why haven¡¯t you started looking for the next person¡® I mean someone you can


    marry


    Kenny leaned against the chair and looked into the distance. For someone my age, it¡¯s not important if I


    marry Many women would naturallye to me if I desired it, but I don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Have you ever had a fling all these years?¡±


    ¡°A fling? I have.¡± Kenny smiled, and he saw something interesting. ¡°Many people have had a fling in


    our industry. You can ask Mr. Russell if you have the chance.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. Why is Dexter suddenly mentioned?


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Kenny was observing a particr spot. ¡°Ms. Warren, to be honest, I admire you. You¡¯re courageous


    and bold. I hope we can continue working together for the long term. Please send my regards to Mr.


    Russell if


    you can.¡±


    Josie had been through so much in the workce after working for many years. She understood what


    he


    meant.


    Although he thanked her outwardly, he wanted to use her to get closer to Dexter. After all, Kennon was


    still a small corporation. Kennon would have boundless prospects if Dexter invested in them.


    Josie put down her cutlery and turned him down tactfully. ¡°Actually, I specialize in interior design. I was


    forced to take this case for certain reasons. Unless Kennon wants to expand into real estate, there


    won¡¯t be further opportunities to work together. I¡¯m very sorry.¡±


    Upon hearing it, Kenny nodded tactfully. ¡°I understand.¡±


    He didn¡¯t force it, so Josie sighed in relief. She made up an excuse to go to the washroom to avoid.


    awkwardness.


    She had only taken a few steps forward when she suddenly saw a familiar figure.


    As usual, he wore a white shirt, and his sleeves were folded to his elbow. His proportions were well-


    defined.


    Dexter was led into a private room by a waiter.


    Josie¡¯s heart thumped. She finally understood why Kenny suddenly brought Dexter up. Kenny must


    have seen him. Did Dexter see me?


    After the waiter left, Josie walked to the washroom. She passed by the quaint private room, and she


    stopped curiously.


    They were discussing business inside.


    ¡°Dexter, what do you think about Landon?¡± The man¡¯s voice was slightly hoarse, as if he had just


    smoked. He had a simr demeanor to Dexter.


    ¡°Martin Lane managed it badly. It¡¯s a valuable acquisition. I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the only one who wants it.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s indifferent voice was slightly shrewd.


    Menght as boven Ni


    The person har rallel Theater ke fou forg sama Ve Bell & Dare


    nor that close Then


    we too


    But was Landon going guid

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78


    Chapter 78 His Threat


    She had heard of the corporation, which was well¨Cknown in the industry. She didn¡¯t know what had


    happened that it had to be bought out, but it sounded like Russell Group would acquire it.


    This way, Russell Group would have a more extensive territory. Dexter was so capable.


    Josie washed her hands distractedly. When she was about to leave, the lights suddenly went off, and it


    was dark. She stood on the spot, dumbfounded. Did the electricity go off?


    She was just about to take her cell phone out of her bag to turn on the shlight when arge hand


    covered her mouth. It was powerful, and it dragged her to the corner forcefully.


    ¡°Mmph!¡± Josie struggled hard but to no avail.


    A tall man behind her restrained her tightly. He was strong, and his cold voice rang in her ears. ¡°How


    much did you hear?¡±


    It was Dexter¡¯s voice.


    Josie suddenly didn¡¯t know if she should worry or rx. She immediately opened her mouth and bit his


    hand. Dexter loosened his hand in pain, and she gasped. I wasn¡¯t listening on purpose. I didn¡¯t hear


    much. I just heard that you want to acquire Landon.¡±


    She had to immediately make things clear when faced with someone as stubborn as Dexter.


    Dexter forced her into a corner in the dark, and his breath was warm.


    ¡°You¡¯re smart. Don¡¯t cavesdrop unnecessarily. Don¡¯t me me for not warning you if you get into


    danger.¡°)


    He was evaluating the situation as he spected. He waspletely different from the indolent person


    a few days ago. He was so solemn that it was as though he was another person.


    Josie was smart and businesslike. ¡°Mr. Russell, I know what to do. I won¡¯t sound a word of this to


    anyone.¡±


    Neither of them said anything for a moment. The electricity hadn¡¯t been restored, and sounds of panic


    came from the outside. It gradually became louder.


    Josie was trembling slightly. She still didn¡¯t dare to say a word.


    Dexter wasn¡¯t in a rush. He even lit a cigarette in the dark. The glow of the fire reflected Josie¡¯s tearful


    eyes, and his actions froze slightly. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Josie was honest with him. ¡°Kennon¡¯s Mr. Green is buying a meal as thanks.


    ¡°He saw me.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡±


    Dexter puffed his cigarette, and she choked. At the next moment, he lifted her chin forcefully. ¡°Does he


    have feelings for you?¡±


    Josie was startled by the question because she didn¡¯t expect it. ¡°No. Mr. Green wanted me to send his


    regards to you.¡±


    Upon hearing it, Dexterughed and said, ¡°You belong to me. Pay attention to your words and actions.


    Other than work, cut down on unnecessary social interactions. Do


    you


    understand?¡±


    I belong to him? Josie felt like she had been bought out. Her lips twitched. ¡°Mr. Russell, I will only do


    the


    necessary.¡±


    The electricity was restored, and Dexter took a step back. Her face gradually came into focus, and it


    was extremely pale because she had been terribly frightened. He extinguished his cigarette and threw


    it away. ¡°Do you drink?¡±


    Josie was surprised.


    The private room was big, but only two people were in it. Other than food on the table, there was also a


    chess set. The chess pieces were arranged. It was a draw. Both sides had no moves left.


    A man sat in the seat of honor, looking to be around Dexter¡¯s age. With his face against the light, only


    his. nose could be seen clearly. He seemed unbelievably arrogant and more vicious than Dexter, but he


    wasn¡¯t ¡®as handsome as Dexter.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Nothing on him was branded. Everything was custom¨Cmade. He must be someone important.


    He saw Josie and suddenly smiled. ¡°Dexter, you found a woman while going to the washroom?¡±


    Dexter indicated to her to follow. He sat next to the man indifferently. ¡°She¡¯s from Russell Group and


    has to report something to me.¡±


    Josie hesitated for a moment but couldn¡¯t figure out his thoughts. She stood behind him.


    ¡°Have a seat, miss.¡± There was a smile on the man¡¯s face as he sized her up quietly.

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79


    Chapter 79 Arnold Carter of Carter Group


    Josie nced at the man¡¯s secretary, who was standing behind him. She didn¡¯t dare to sit without


    Dexter¡¯s approval.


    ¡°You¡¯re scaring her, Arnold: Dexter lifted his hands and pulled a chair beside him, seeming like a


    gentleman. ¡°Mr. Carter is being nice. Have a seat since he asked you to sit.¡±


    Josie was covered in a cold sweat again. She struggled for a moment but sat down. ¡°Thank you, Mr.


    Carter.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    This man was Arnold Carter, the oldest son of the Carter Group. The two families had always had a


    rivalry, but Josie never thought the two men were friends in private.


    ¡°Miss, you look quite familiar.¡± Arnold picked up a winess and swirled it meaningfully.


    Josie sat straight. ¡°Mr. Carter, my name is Josie Warren. You can address me as Josie or Ms. Warren.¡±


    She avoided what he said.


    Arnold didn¡¯t answer, and the meaningful look in his eyes intensified. He spoke to Dexter indifferently,


    ¡°What do you think, Dexter?¡±


    Next to him, Dexter tilted his head slightly, and his words were clearly tinged with spite. ¡°You¡¯re drunk,


    Arnold.¡±


    It was as though Arnold had heard something hrious. He covered his forehead andughed for a


    while. After that, he leaned back in his chair and asked Josie, [Do you know how to y chess, Ms.


    Warren?¡±


    While the two were talking, Josie had taken the opportunity to send Kenny a message so he could


    leave first.


    She never thought the topic of discussion would change again. She raised her head and looked into


    Dexter¡¯s eyes. ¡°A little.¡±


    ¡°Look at this match. Who do you think won?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°This match is a draw. There¡¯s no final winner.¡±


    ¡°Not necessarily. Mr. Russell¡¯s chess skills are on par with a national yer. He gave in to me.¡± Arnold


    walked around the table and put the winess in front of Josie.


    Josie couldn¡¯t ignore it since Arnold ced it in front of her. She picked it up and finished it in one gulp.


    She almost threw up, but she forced it down. ¡°How about this? I will be the loser of this match to keep


    you from arguing. What do you think?¡±


    Arnold contemted as he looked at Josie. Arnold lit a cigarette, and he held it between his fingers.


    ¡°Dexter, your employee is quite interesting. Which department is she from? Is she an assistant?¡±


    Dexter tapped his bony fingers on the table distractedly. It was as though he was satisfied with Josie¡¯s


    answer. ¡°The design department.¡±


    ¡°What a shame. Ms. Warren is smart and shrewd. I was just going to ask if you would give her up so


    she can be my assistant.¡±


    Give her up. Arnold¡¯s words were arrogant and provoking. Josie didn¡¯t dare to look at him, afraid that


    Dexter would give her up.


    ¡°Carter Group is full of talent. It¡¯s not easy for Russell Group to train someone capable. Don¡¯t put me in


    a difficult spot, Arnold. Dexter retorted with a smile. He didn¡¯t express his true feelings.


    It was clearly a rivalry between the two, but Josie felt a chill on her back. She was afraid of getting


    involved.


    At this time, someone knocked on the door of the private room. A waiter walked to Dexter and said.


    something to him. Dexter got up and said he had urgent matters to deal with before leaving the private


    room.


    Arnold extinguished the cigarette in his hands. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you before, Ms. Warren. Why do you


    have to report to Mr. Russell regarding affairs in the design department?¡±


    His intentions were unclear. Josie pondered as she answered. ¡°I¡¯ve been working in Russell Group for


    three years and am just an ordinary employee. It¡¯s only natural if you¡¯ve never seen me, Mr. Carter. I


    must report to Mr. Russell regarding a project today, which is why I had the pleasure of meeting you.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Arnold didn¡¯t know if he should believe her. ¡°Dexter likes women like you. You should take this


    opportunity.¡±


    Josie almost choked. How can he say everything thates to mind?

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80


    Chapter 80 You Better Do So if You Don''t Want to Die!


    ¡°Mr. Russell is my superior. I wouldn¡¯t dream of it.¡±


    Arnold poured another ss of wine and handed it to her. He pointed to the indistinct figure at the door.


    ¡°Some people dream of it for years, but to no avail. I have higher hopes for youpared to her


    A woman stood at the door and handed Dexter documents. He nced at it and quickly signed his


    name.


    That woman was Ivy.


    ¡°That¡¯s high praise, Mr. Carter.¡± Josie stared at the wine. She gritted her teeth and finished it. Red wine


    leaked from the corners of her mouth, and she looked sensual.


    She didn¡¯t have good alcohol tolerance. If she continued drinking like this, she couldn¡¯t hold on much


    longer.


    Dexter returned when Arnold poured the third ss of wine. As he walked over, he said casually. ¡°You


    have such a good perception of my employee, Arnold. After that, he looked at Josie. ¡°Mr. Carter is


    usually kind to women and doesn¡¯t normally pour wine for women. He¡¯s particrly excited today


    because he


    admires you.¡±


    Josie answered. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Carter.


    ¡°My assistant told me she saw you at the Southeast Reservoirst week. I never thought that your


    fishing skills had improved recently. Dexter took out a cigarette but wasn¡¯t rushing to light it.


    Arnold leaned back and was utterly confident. ¡°I must do what I can for this project.¡±


    ¡°Oh? I heard that Carter Group¡¯s current capital flow can¡¯t support an acquisition of Landon. You might


    not be able to win.¡±


    ¡°How can you decide when the jury is still out, Dexter? Landon has debts worth hundreds of millions at


    present. Can Russell Group bear it?¡±


    A lighter clicked and lit the end of Dexter¡¯s cigarette. He answered. ¡°We have more than enough.¡±


    Josie sat at the side and watched. She couldn¡¯t help but be filled with admiration when she heard it.


    She had to admit that the man¡¯s unintentional assertiveness was unrivaled. Even when Arnold showed


    off his abilities, he wasn¡¯t a match for Dexter.


    After a brief pause, Arnold picked up his coat and was about to leave. Before leaving, he asked, ¡°When


    are you nning on settling down, Dexter?¡±


    Dexter paused as he smoked. ¡°I need to have a girlfriend before I settle down. I¡¯m not as lucky as you,


    Arnold. You always have women around you.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Arnold nced at Josie and said meaningfully, ¡°I think she¡¯s pretty good.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    After that, he left the private room. It was as though a show hade to an end.


    Josie shut her eyes, and she almost copsed. She walked to close the door of the private room tightly.


    She said to the man who was smoking. ¡°He was threatening you into giving up Landon by mentioning


    settling down. Does he know about our marriage?¡±


    What Arnold implied was evident.


    Dexter raised his brows indifferently. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Josie¡¯s hands clenched tightly. She was still in a cold sweat. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t know that my presence


    would bring such an adverse effect. I never imagined Mr. Carter of Carter Group was in the private


    room.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t say anything after a long while, as if he was thinking of something.


    ¡°If I hadn¡¯t brought you in just now, Arnold¡¯s people would have taken you away tonight.¡± His voice was


    deep and intertwined with faint rage.


    Josie could imagine the consequences of eavesdropping on confidential business information. But she


    didn¡¯t want to listen to it in the first ce. She didn¡¯t know that the soundproofing here was so poor.


    But at such a stage, she could only yield. ¡°I won¡¯t be so curious next time.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no next time.¡± Dexter extinguished his cigarette and approached Josic. ¡°I exposed a secret of


    mine. to Arnold to save your life. How are you going to repay me?¡±


    Josie was startled and smiled bitterly. ¡°¡­ Why don¡¯t I talk to Mr. Carter and change his mind?¡±


    ¡°You better do so if you don¡¯t want to die!¡± He said in a low voice.

 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81


    Chapter 81 Losing Her Temper on Him.


    Josie spread her hands. ¡°After all, people who understand you will more or less figure out our


    rtionship when they see me. Mr. Russell, it seems like there¡¯s no use hiding.¡±


    Many things were clear after the truth was revealed. It was why Dexter¡¯s friend, Calvin, had pondered.


    when he saw her. Today, Arnold had cleverly guessed her identity. It was because she resembled


    Leanne.


    Dexter poked the inside of his cheek with the tip of his tongue. He was displeased with what she said.


    He sneered. ¡°Are you losing your temper at me, Josie?¡±


    Josie picked up her bag and was feeling slightly tipsy. ¡°I¡¯m not losing my temper. I¡¯m just saying it like it


    is.¡±


    She opened the private room door and realized Ivy was still standing there. Josie saw that Ivy¡¯s gaze


    wasn¡¯t very friendly.


    Josie didn¡¯t care. She walked out in her heels while tottering and swaying.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Warren has had too much to drink. It¡¯s dangerous for her to go home alone. Let me


    send her.¡± Ivy turned and peered at the man¡¯s flickering expressions.


    Dexter answered forcefully as if enraged. ¡°No need.¡±


    Ivy froze. She never thought he would turn her down. The atmosphere inside wasn¡¯t exactly friendly,


    but Dexter was still protecting that woman! She gritted her teeth but didn¡¯t dare to insist.


    Josie was feeling tipsy. She wobbled out of the restaurant while a group of men stared at her. She dry


    heaved under a tree at the side of the road.


    She felt humiliated. She had grown up in Wavery but didn¡¯t have a trusted friend. A friend that she


    could. call to pick her up while she was drunk. What a miserable situation she was in.


    A few men who wanted to flirt with her approached her, but Josie pushed them away with her bag. She


    many people were waiting. She was the ny¨Cninth


    took out her cell phone and wanted to hail a cab, buss


    in line.


    At this time, a Rolls¨CRoyce pulled up in front of Josie, and the door opened automatically. Dexter¡¯s side


    profile wasn¡¯t friendly. ¡°Get in.¡±


    Josie wanted to be stubborn, but her remaining sanity told her she might have to wait here until dawn if


    she didn¡¯t follow him.


    Once she got into the car, the driver was smart enough to raise the partition.


    Dexter was expressionless. He opened the fridge in the car and took out a water bottle. He opened it


    and put it to Josie¡¯s lips. His actions were instinctive.


    Josie stiffened. After a long time, she turned to the side. ¡°I¡¯m not thirsty.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s strong arm froze in mid¨Cair. The next moment, Dexter forcefully squeezed her cheeks and


    forced her to raise her head. ¡°Mmph¡­¡±


    Dexter had a dangerous expression in the dark. He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Haven¡¯t I been kind enough to


    you, Josie Warren?¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t used to his aggressiveness. She suppressed the fear in her heart and said nothing.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He exerted force and fed her water. Water sshed everywhere, and Josie started coughing violently.


    Her teeth felt frozen.


    She struggled with all her might and even swung her bag in Dexter¡¯s direction. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s bare arms were red from being hit with her bag, but he didn¡¯t loosen his grip on her. He put


    two fingers into her mouth and gagged her.


    ¡°You screwed things up for me tonight, and you still have the nerve to disobey me? I¡¯ve told you to


    know where you stand and your limits. Did it go in one car and out the other?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice deepened


    towards the end, and he wanted to destroy her in his rage.


    Josie wouldn¡¯t have done such an irrational act under normal circumstances. Still, perhaps it was the


    effects of the alcohol or the grievances she had been holding in for the past few days. She still said


    nothing and didn¡¯t give in.


    ¡®Josie felt light¨Cheaded, and her face flushed. She was about to pass out from being choked. After a


    long


    time, Dexter suddenly let go of her and took out a wet tissue to clean his fingers one at a time.


    ¡°If this happens again, I¡¯ll personally deliver you to Arnold.¡±

 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82


    Chapter 82 Participating in the Regr Meeting


    Josie covered her chest as she coughed violently. She shivered when she heard what Dexter said. She


    didn¡¯t know if she was frightened or cold.


    Dexter made a call. Investigate Arnold¡¯s capital flow and his recent banquet. I want a detailed list of


    attendees.¡±


    It seemed like he was determined to seed in acquiring Landon


    The Rolls¨CRoyce stopped at Mason Garden. Josie got out of the car with some difficulty. She had just


    taken Two steps when she heard the car leaving behind her. Dexter was leaving. He wouldn¡¯t be


    staying in Mason Garden tonight.


    When Mrs. Carroll heard the car, she immediately ran out. ¡°Oh my god, Mrs. Russell. Why did you so


    much?¡±


    Josie waved her hands andughed at herself. Two sses weren¡¯t enough to make amends.¡±


    drink


    Mrs. Carroll didn¡¯t know what had happened. She helped Josie into the vi and made her hangover


    tea.


    ¡°I made a mistake today, Mrs. Carroll.¡± Josiey on the sofa and realized her hair smelled like Dexter. It


    was the faint scent of tobo and detergent. ¡°He didn¡¯t give in to me. It was what I had expected, but..


    Josie couldn¡¯tplete her sentence.


    Mrs. Carrol brought out the tea and put it to Josie¡¯s lips. ¡°You and Mr. Russell are a couple. I¡¯m sure he


    doesn¡¯t really me you. Couples never stay mad at each other overnight.¡±


    ¡°A couple?¡± Josie sneered. ¡°Mrs. Carroll, you see us every day. You should know that we¡¯re not a real


    couple.¡±


    Mrs. Carrol sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t know much about the matters of rich families, but from what I can see, Mr.


    Russell has some feelings for you.¡±


    Really? It¡¯s a shame that those feelings aren¡¯t for me. They¡¯re for the girl who looks like me.


    Josie slept poorly that night.


    She woke up with a splitting headache the next day. Josie paused, and everything felt unreal to her.


    She shut her eyes, and yesterday¡¯s scenes yed in her mind. Josie immediately felt a chill. She had


    lost her temper at Dexter!


    Not only had she lost her temper, but she had also gone against his wishes.


    She was dumbfounded as she buried her face into the nket. She wanted to disappear, and she


    vowed never to drink again! It was too easy to lose hermon sense!


    At Russell Group.


    ¡°Why does your face look so swollen today?¡± Alice asked curiously when she saw Josie¡¯s dispirited


    face.


    Josie waved her hands. Shey on her workstation without moving. ¡°I drank too much yesterday, so I¡¯m


    nning on cking off today. Don¡¯t talk to me.¡±


    ¡°Kennon has transferred the money, and we¡¯ve just received it. Our superiors are delighted.¡±


    Josie sprang up, and her lips widened in surprise. Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. There¡¯s a regr meeting today. ire might even bring you along.¡± Alice told her softly. Alice


    was happy for Josic.


    ¡°If the higher level is happy, does that mean my bonus will double?¡±


    ¡°How money minded of you. However, it¡¯s possible.¡±


    Josie suddenly felt energetic. She sorted out the information from the past few days. Sure enough,


    ire left her office shortly with a dark expression. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    There was arge meeting room on the thirty¨Csecond floor of Russell Group. Every Wednesday, the


    head of each department would gather and summarize their work.


    Josie followed ire as she saw various elites file into the meeting room. She was slightly tongue¨Ctied.


    Th cream of the crop had gathered.


    ire nced at her. ¡°Pick your jaw up off the floor. Don¡¯t embarrass the design department.¡±


    Josie stuck out her tongue and made a face behind ire¡¯s back.


    After everyone sat down, an aloof figure walked into the meeting room one minute before the meeting


    started. The man wore a ck suit today and a white shirt inside as usual. His proportions were perfect


    Josie faintly heard soft gasps. Even ire blushed and hung her head.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83


    Chapter 83 Stolen Credit


    Josie looked down because she didn¡¯t know Dexter would attend the regr weekly meeting! Josie


    silently raised her file and tried to hide her face. She wouldn¡¯t havee if she had known! With how


    recklessly she actedst night, she thought Dexter wanted to murder her!


    Ivy put everything in order and said to the man in the seat of honor, ¡°Mr. Russell, everyone is here.¡±


    Dexter silently tapped the pen next to him slightly unrestrainedly. ¡°Let¡¯s start.¡±


    After that, each department reported methodically about their work for the week. They spoke sinctly


    and concisely and asionally introduced new outstanding department members. As Dexter listened,


    hemented and talked about uing ns sporadically. His voice was clear, and his every action


    made him seem mature.


    Fifteen minutes had passed when it was ire¡¯s turn. She seemed nervous in the enormous meeting


    room. Her fingers were on herptop, and she couldn¡¯t speak well. ¡°Mr. Russell, the design


    department¡¯s insults, um, I mean, results from this week are as such¡­¡±


    She stuttered, and the heads of other departments smiled. The manager of the HR department, Mr.


    Yves, teased her. ¡°Ms. Wilcher has just taken up this role and seems nervous. It¡¯s alright. Take it easy.


    Dexter yed with a pen with one hand. His indifferent gaze fell on the woman covering her face with a


    file.


    ire nodded in embarrassment. She was about to cry when faced with Dexter¡¯s analytical gaze. Josie


    had given up. With ire¡¯s presentation skills, Josie couldn¡¯t double her bonus.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    At this time, Alex, from the venture capital investment department, suddenly said. ¡°The design


    department is quite capable. I heard they recentlypleted a project with apany we¡¯ve been


    following up on and researching for a long time. Thepany has the potential to grow. If there¡¯s an


    opportunity to invest, it would be a dream coboration for bothpanies.¡±


    His honesty suddenly alleviated ire¡¯s awkwardness.


    She looked at him gratefully, ¡°Yes. I did the early research on Kennon. They do have the potential to


    grow.¡±


    Josie raised her head, perplexed, but she stayed silent.


    What else did ire do besides hitting a snag a few times and discovering that the IP copyrights were


    with


    Shannon?


    Alex was interested. ¡°Oh? You have pretty good insight, Ms. Wilcher. I heard that this was a difficult


    project. You¡¯re amazing forpleting it in such a short amount of time.¡±


    -ire¡¯s smile widened. ¡°It¡¯s my duty to work for thepany. I had to try, no matter how tough it was.


    Thankfully, it worked out. If the venture capital investment department needs any information at ater


    stage, we can help you out.¡±


    Alex nodded and led everyone in apuse.


    ire looked very proud. She looked confidently at the seat of honor and hoped for the man¡¯s


    approval. However, his face was expressionless. His eyes were deep as if hiding something.


    For some reason. she felt slightly fearful.


    Josie buried her head lower. The hope in her heart burned to ashes. What¡¯s done was done. She


    couldn¡¯te out and tell everyone she hadpleted the project.


    She felt angry, annoyed, and grieved that ire had taken credit and stolen the limelight, but she


    couldn¡¯t


    say a word.


    The voices grew further away. After a long time, the meeting finally ended.


    Everyone made their way out. Josie sat at her spot for a long time. ire wasn¡¯t in a rush to leave


    either. She said provokingly, ¡°Your contribution belongs to the design department. I was just telling


    everyone on your behalf. The bonus is still yours. You don¡¯t have to be upset.¡±


    After that, she quickly left with herptop.

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84


    Chapter 84 A Risky Acquisition


    At this time, Josie realized that what ire cared about wasn¡¯t the bonus. It was the sense of


    achievement from trying hard.


    Ivy¡¯s voice rang faintly. ¡°Mr. Russell, the board of directors is waiting for you.¡±


    Josie looked up and saw the man in the seat of honor. He buttoned up his coat, and his gaze met hers.


    He frowned subconsciously, and he felt slightly uneasy.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°What? ire really said that?¡± Alice cried out in surprise back at the design department. She didn¡¯t


    shy away from criticizing ire. ¡°Who does she think she is? How shameless of her to brazenly take


    credit!¡±


    Josie pulled Alice¡¯s arm. ¡°It¡¯s fine. What¡¯s done is done. It¡¯s enough that I can get


    the


    money.¡±


    ¡°How can it be fine? Your hard work has gone down the drain again. Don¡¯t tell me you want to spend


    the rest of your life as a subordinate in the design department? You clearly have a better future!¡± Alice


    said resentfully.


    ¡°What else can I do? Should I look for Mr. Russell and argue about it? He has to attend to numerous


    affairs every day. How would he have the time to deal with such a minor issue?¡± Josie said


    sarcastically. Shey on her desk and shut her eyes. I¡¯m going to take a nap. Let¡¯s not discuss it


    further.¡±All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Alice was dumbstruck.


    When Josie shut her eyes, she saw Dexter¡¯s emotionless face in her mind. He had been with her as


    shepleted the project, but he said nothing just now. He had silently acknowledged ire¡¯s actions.


    For a split second, she felt that she was so upset because of his attitude.


    ¡°It¡¯s too risky to acquire Landon. You will need half of Russell Group¡¯s capital flow. It¡¯s too risky, Dex.¡±


    The elderly man before Dexter kept trying to convince Dexter. The man smoked one cigarette after


    another and came to a conclusion.


    Dexter lifted his cup and tasted the tea. It was slightly bitter. He didn¡¯t like it.


    ¡°Granduncle, you¡¯re old. You should be enjoying retired life at home. Who asked you to convince me?


    Tell me. I¡¯ll deal with it.¡±


    The old man Dexter called ¡®Granduncle¡® tapped his walking stick forcefully. ¡°No one asked me to do


    anything. I¡¯m a part of the Russell family, so it¡¯s only natural for me to advise you. You¡¯re risking


    everyone¡¯s jobs!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Dexter put down his teacup, and it made a sound on the table. ¡°Without taking risks,


    Russell Group wouldn¡¯t have be what it is today!¡±


    The old man, who had been through countless hardships, was intimidated by Dexter¡¯s imposing


    manner. He was momentarily dumbstruck.


    ¡°Granduncle Wesley, you don¡¯t have to care about such things. If you¡¯re free, keep Grandpapany.


    He¡¯s ill and needs people to be with him. After that, Dexter stood up. ¡°Ivy, send him off!¡±


    ¡°Dex! Dexter Russell!¡± Wesley Russell raised his hands and stopped Ivy from approaching. Tm telling


    you


    that I firmly oppose your acquisition of Landon. Don¡¯t forget that I still own shares I can team up with


    the other shareholders and overthrow your decision. It¡¯s not necessarily out of the question!¡±


    Dexterughed when he heard it. There was a smirk in the corner of his lips. ¡°You can try


    The old man left in a rage. He didn¡¯t allow anyone to help him.


    Ivy returned, slightly worried. ¡°Mr. Russell, it is quite risky to acquire Landon. Besides Arnold eyeing it


    covetously, Landon¡¯s debts are also a big problem.¡±


    Dexter looked to the side and nced at her. ¡°You¡¯re bing more problematic recently. I don¡¯t like


    it.¡±


    Ivy immediately hung her head and kept quiet.


    Dexter picked up his coat that was hanging from a chair. He left his office and didn¡¯t allow anyone to


    follow him. His VIP elevator stopped at the twenty¨Cseventh floor. He walked closer and saw that the


    particr workstation was empty. He wrinkled his brows.


    An employee passed by and was frightened by the sight of him. ¡°Mr¡­ Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Josie?¡±


    The employee was Alice. She was flustered as she tried to cover up for Josie. ¡°Jo¡­ Josie received a


    call from the hospital. Something must have happened to her family, so she left work early.¡±


    In an instant, the man¡¯s gaze changed.

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85


    Chapter 85 Requested to Join the Medical Team


    ¡°I miss you, Dad.¡±


    Josie sat by the bed in the VIP hospital room. She used a wet towel to wipe the old man¡¯s arm Josie¡¯s


    dad had been lying in bed for too long, and his muscles degenerated. Even his skin was aging. He


    didn¡¯t look like he was in his forties. Instead, he looked like he was in his fifties or sixties.


    Josie was distressed when she looked at her dad. He had been healthy but had aged in the past three


    years.


    ¡°Dad, quickly wake up, alright? I¡¯ve been feeling very miserable at the office recently. Listen to me, then


    pat my head, alright?¡±


    ¡°Things aren¡¯t going too well at home either. Justin¡¯s madness knows no bounds. Wake up and deal


    with him. He fears you the most.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The wet towel was wrung dry repeatedly. Josie was exceptionally patient. She kept talking to herself


    while constantly paying attention to see if her dad was reacting.


    After wiping his entire body, Josie¡¯s dad still didn¡¯t react. Only the pulsating lines on the ECC proved


    that he was still alive.


    Josie felt weighed down. She sat at one side and was lost in thought.


    She hadn¡¯t actually received a call from the hospital today. She just felt depressed and wanted to see


    her


    dad.


    After the incident with Justin, it had been a long time since she hade to the hospital. She felt


    slightly guilty.


    She stared at her dad¡¯s aged face and thought to herself. If he wakes up, he must feel distressed about


    my sacrifices over the years. It¡¯s a shame he¡¯s asleep. No one else in this world will ask me if I¡¯m


    happy. No one.


    ¡°Jo?¡± The room of the hospital door suddenly opened. Matthew was in white, looking gentle and


    dignified. Josie immediately stood up. ¡°Dr. Sander.¡±


    Matthew indicated for her to sit. ¡°Why do you keep calling me that? You used to call me Matt in the


    past.¡± Josie didn¡¯t know why. It seemed like she kept a distance from other men after she married


    Dexter.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright that I came without warning today, right? Has there been any changes with my dad


    recently?¡±


    ¡°Of course. You¡¯re the patient¡¯s family. It¡¯s only natural for you to visit.¡± Matthew¡¯s hands were in his


    pocket. He was watching Josie from the start until the end. He wanted to say something but didn¡¯t. ¡°I¡¯m


    not your father¡¯s attending doctor, but I followed up with his medical team. ording to them, he¡¯s


    stable for now. Don¡¯t worry, Jo.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡­¡± Stable. It meant that there wasn¡¯t any improvement. Josie was slightly disappointed,


    but she


    didn¡¯t show it.


    ¡°I heard you were here, so I came to see you.¡± Matthew took out an orange from his pocket. ¡°The head


    nurse gave me this. I heard it¡¯s sweet. Do you want it?¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°The head nurse gave it to you. It¡¯s not nice for me to eat it.¡±


    Matthew also smiled. He took out a pocket knife to cut the orange, revealing its slightly orange flesh.


    He said. ¡°I recently requested to join your father¡¯s medical team. After all, I¡¯ve followed up with his


    medical condition for three years. I know his condition well.¡±


    Josie was slightly surprised, but she was also delighted. ¡°That¡¯s great. I will feel reassured if you¡¯re part


    of my father¡¯s treatment team.¡±


    She trusted him.


    ¡°Everything is still in the process. I don¡¯t know if the higher levels will approve, but I will try to fight for


    it.¡± Matthew cut the orange into slices and put one near Josie¡¯s lips. ¡°I don¡¯t have time to eat. Help me


    try it.¡±


    Josie froze. She was almost swept away by Matthew¡¯s gentle and affectionate gaze. She opened her


    mouth and bit into the fruit. ¡°Mm! It¡¯s sweet! Try it!¡±


    Upon seeing her eat it, Matthew put one slice into his mouth.


    ¡°You called me some time ago and asked me to look out for Justin. You didn¡¯te to the hospital after


    that. Why? Did something happen?¡±

 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86


    Chapter 86 You Still Have Me


    He was very perceptive. Josie put her hands on the table behind her, increasing their distance. She felt


    slightly uneasy.


    ¡°Something happened at home, but it¡¯s been solved. You know what it¡¯s like. It¡¯s the same old


    problems. She forced a smile and pretended everything was alright.


    But Matthew could see the exhaustion on her face. ¡°You¡¯ve been tired recently.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a question. It was a statement.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you a physician, Matt? Why do you sound like a psychologist? You¡¯re so insightful, Josie said


    half- jokingly. She didn¡¯t want the atmosphere to turn too solemn.


    Matthew threw the orange rind into the trash. ¡°Let me act as a psychologist and guess why you¡¯re tired.


    Is it because of life? Work? Or is it your sry?¡±


    ¡°Close enough. Josie smiled bitterly in exasperation. ¡°All of the above. I have nowhere to go. I¡¯m feeling


    slightly bothered.¡±


    ¡°Jo, why don¡¯t you cut yourself some ck if you¡¯re exhausted? You don¡¯t have to bear everything


    alone.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand what he meant as she listened to his advice. ¡°If I don¡¯t bear it, who would help


    me share this burden? As you know, I have no one on my side.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nonsense, Matthew blurted out quickly.


    Josie didn¡¯t understand.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying that you still have me by your side. I will help you take care of your father.¡± Matthew


    coughed. and spoke slowly. He was afraid of scaring the woman before him.


    Josie didn¡¯t fully understand. She was just about to answer when the head nurse opened the doors.


    She was slightly surprised when she saw them. ¡°You¡¯re here too, Dr. Sander.¡±


    Matthew stepped aside when he heard it.


    ¡°Jo,e and sign this. I haven¡¯t seen you in a few days.¡± She handed a form to Josie.


    It was about medication instructions. Josie had signed countless forms for the past three years. She


    was familiar with the head nurse before her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ve been slightly busy recently.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. Dr. Sander is here.¡± The head nurse had a yful expression as she teased the two.


    Josie didn¡¯t find it strange and answered, ¡°That¡¯s right. I don¡¯t know what I would do without Dr. Sander.


    Thankfully, he¡¯s here to help.¡±


    The head nurse wanted to say something, but she saw Matthew¡¯s expression and kept quiet.


    Josie chatted with the head nurse for a while more when her cell phone suddenly rang. She nced at


    it and shot the two apologetic gazes before she went out to answer the call. ¡°Hello.¡±


    In the hospital room, the head nurse patted Matthew¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You have a long way to go.¡±


    Matthew had a faint smile from the start until the end. He looked at Josie¡¯s figure outside the door.


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush. I can take my time.¡±


    It was an unknown number.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I¡¯m Nicole!¡± A woman¡¯s voice rang on the phone.


    ¡°I know. I saw the area code and guessed it was you.¡±


    Nicole hadn¡¯t contacted Josie in a long time. Nicole must have settled in another city since she took the


    initiative to call Josie.


    ¡°I told my parents I¡¯m on an extended business trip and will be away for some time. They didn¡¯t ask


    further, so they probably haven¡¯t been harassed by Justin. Ms. Warren, was it because¡­ you and Mr.


    Russe did something behind the scenes to help?¡±


    Josie paused. ¡°Mm¡­ It¡¯s Mr. Russell.¡± It had nothing to do with her.


    Nicole started thanking Josie and told Josie that she was doing well where she was. Justin hadn¡¯t


    found he ¡°I¡¯m just worried about Wavery, Justin hasn¡¯t been making trouble for you, has he?¡±


    He had not. It was thanks to Dexter.


    But she had been alone for the past few days and hadn¡¯t seen Justin. This was slightly strange. It was


    as though he had vanished into thin air in Wavery.


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Nicole talked to Josie for a while before ending the call.

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87


    Chapter 87 High Interest Loan


    Josie leaned against the wall and pondered. Shortly after, her cell phone rang again. It was an


    unknown number, but it had a Wavery area code. She furrowed her brows.


    ¡°Who is this?¡±


    A man¡¯s voice came from the other end. It sounded sinister. ¡°Ms. Warren, do you want your brother to


    live?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    It was a threat. Josie was startled, and her eyes immediately widened. Justin!


    She gripped the corner of her clothes tightly and tried calming herself down. ¡°Don¡¯t threaten me! If


    you¡¯ve done your research, you¡¯d know that I¡¯m not Justin¡¯s biological sister. I won¡¯t save him!¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Laughter came from the other side. There seemed to be many people there. ¡°Did you hear that?


    You¡¯re so useless that even your sister doesn¡¯t want to save you!¡±


    There was the sound of a knife slicing. Justin cried out miserably, ¡°Sis! Help me! Sis!¡±


    Josie froze on the spot. ¡°Who are you? Where are you from?¡±


    ¡°What do you think? Your brother owes us over half a million. I¡¯m giving you half an hour. Come to


    Heaven on Earth and help him pay it off. Otherwise, I¡¯m going to kill him!¡± It was Justin¡¯s debtor!


    Half a million¡­


    ¡°No way! I¡¯ve seen his credit report. It¡¯s only around two hundred thousand. Don¡¯t lie to me!¡±


    ¡°Haha, two hundred thousand!¡± The people on the other end roared inughter. It was as though they


    had heard a hrious joke. ¡°Do you know which loan your brother took up? It¡¯s a loan with very high


    interest! The interest goes up to a few thousand daily. His debt reached five hundred thousand a long


    freaking time. ago!TM


    High interest loan¡­ It was no joke. When members of organized crime were enraged, nothing could


    them!


    stop


    Josie¡¯s palms were sweating. ¡°I don¡¯t have money, and I can¡¯t save him. You¡¯re just in time. I was


    worried that I had no way to punish him. You can help me do it!¡±


    After that, she immediately hung up!


    At this time, the door of the hospital room opened. Matthew and the head nurse walked out together


    and saw Josie with a pale expression. She was in a cold sweat. ¡°What happened? Are you feeling


    unwell, Jo?¡±


    Matthew reached out to feel her temperature. He was worried.


    Josie stayed still and looked at her dad lying on the bed between their figures. His face looked like he


    had been through a lot.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing! Something urgent came up. I¡¯m leaving! Josie suddenly flung Matthew¡¯s hand away. Her


    footsteps were hurried, and she started running as she disappeared at the end of the corridor.


    As it turned out, Justin had been missing for such a long time because the mafia had captured him!


    The sky was getting darker outside. Josie hailed a cab to go to Mason Garden. The vehicle drove


    steadily,


    and she rested her head against the window. She tried to calm down. Justin had done many evil things,


    so he deserved to suffer and be treated violently.


    But her dad¡¯s face kept appearing in her mind. When she was young, her dad often advised her.


    Although


    don¡¯t have blood rtions, you¡¯re better than blood¨Crted siblings. Never let there be bad blood


    between you two.


    you


    Josie wanted to treat him as her brother at first. It was a shame that his mother went too far in bullying


    her. The two had basically been strangers for all these years.


    Justin¡¯s wails and Mr. Warren¡¯s advice kept reying in her mind. Josie shut her eyes forcefully and


    almost had a breakdown. ¡°Mister! I¡¯m changing my destination, I want to go to Heaven on Earth!¡±


    Heaven on Earth was in a reputable red¨Clight district in Wavery. She had heard rumors that the mafia


    was. the driving force behind it!


    Josie stood outside the beautiful and spectacr venue. She gritted her teeth and ultimately conceded.


    She had brought nothing with her. No matter what they did to her, she couldn¡¯te up with five


    hundred thousand.


    She called the number that had called her. They answered quickly. ¡°What¡¯s up? Have youe to your


    senses, Ms. Warren?¡±


    ¡°Which room?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you have. Room 307. Say Mr. Lane¡¯s name ande up at once!¡±

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88


    Chapter 88 Mr Lane


    Josie took a deep breath and walked through the doors apprehensively. The servers stopped her and


    sized her up. ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    ¦§


    Mr. Lane on the third floor.¡±


    The servers put their hands down and gave her a card. They had a vaguely contemptuous gaze. From


    the looks of it, they must have seen many women like her.


    Josie took the card but didn¡¯t go straight to the third floor. She looked for a washroom and took off her


    coat.


    She was wearing a long dress that cost around forty or fifty. It wasn¡¯t of excellent quality, and she could


    tear it easily. She tore off the lower half of her dress, revealing her fair and slim legs. She also pulled


    out the straps and stuffed it into her dress. Her long dress was immediately transformed into a racy,


    short dress.


    Josie fixed her hair and put on red lipstick. The woman in the mirror suddenly became extremely


    sensual and charming.


    Women walked in and out. They weren¡¯t surprised by Josie¡¯s actions. It was as though it was a


    contmon


    urrence.


    She had no other way. Other than money, the only other way to deal with men was by charming them.


    Servers carrying alcohol came and went in the corridor. Josie took a bottle of red wine and used her


    teeth. to open it. She took a big gulp and made her way to Room 307. She looked fearless.


    Josie clenched her fingers into a fist and knocked on the door. A bald man peeked out. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Josie had a charming smile. Her arm slithered around his neck like a snake. ¡°The manager told me to


    come here.¡±


    The bald man turned. ¡°Mr. Lane, the person Mr. Barrett told us about.¡±


    The private room was filled with colorful and blindingser lights. Inside, Mr. Lane only wore a


    sleeveless shirt while holding a bottle of wine in one hand. He looked rough and coarse. From the looks


    of it, he seemed like a difficult person who had been in the mafia for many years.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett? Who called for a girl?¡± Mr. Lane stood up and wanted to take a good look at Josie¡¯s


    appearance.


    Josie moved quickly and immediately slipped into the shadows. She fell into his arms and stuck to him.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett said that you¡¯re a regr, Mr. Lane. He sent me here today. You will be pleased with my


    service.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Her voice sounded flirty. The man felt her soft skin and didn¡¯t want to let go of her.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett is so smart. It¡¯s no wonder that Heaven on Earth has had such great business for so many


    years! Haha!¡±


    Mr. Lane turned and sat on the couch as he hugged Josie, pleased.


    Josie suppressed the nauseating urge to retch. At this time, she saw Justin tied up and kneeling on the


    floor. His hands were covered in blood, and he was unconscious.


    He was better left unconscious.


    ¡°No matter how great our business is, it¡¯s because of our clients. We have such sess thanks to you,


    Mr. Lane. Mr. Barrett especially urged me to make you drink more!¡±


    Josie put the drink in her hands to his lips. Mr. Lane reeked of alcohol but wasn¡¯t in a rush to drink it.


    He squeezed her chin and looked at her carefully. He asked vigntly, ¡°What¡¯s your nickname? I¡¯ve


    been here for so many years. Why have I never seen you?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart beat furiously. She didn¡¯t know about the nicknames here!


    ¡°¡­ My name is Jasmine. I¡¯m new. You¡¯re my first customer.¡±


    After briefly doubting her, Mr. Laneughed out loud and stroked her back. ¡°You¡¯re so smart even


    though you¡¯re new. Mr. Barrett is getting better! Since I¡¯m your first, are you still a maiden?¡±


    ¡®Josie almost punched his greasy face.


    ¡°Of course! You can do whatever you like tonight, Mr. Lane!¡±


    Upon seeing that he wasn¡¯t drinking, Josie put the drink down andy in his arms.

 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89


    Chapter 89 Got Him Out of Mandarin Oriental Hotel


    ¡°Did you hear that? Guys! This girl is such a flirt!¡± Mr. Laneughed as he pointed to his henchmen in


    the private room.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, sir. We never thought that such a great thing would happen today. While waiting for


    money. a woman even delivered herself to you!¡±


    Perhaps it was because of the loud noise, but Justin awoke, surprised. He opened his eyes in a daze


    and saw the woman in Mr. Lane¡¯s arms. Upon further inspection, he opened his mouth wide in


    disbelief.


    Thankfully, Josie had been paying attention to him. She immediately mouthed silently. Shut up if you


    want


    to live.


    Justin closed his mouth and looked at Josie with aplicated expression. He never thought that she


    would reallye to save him!


    ¡°Mr. Lane! This stupid fellow is awake!¡± It was the bald man. He was shrewd.


    Josie¡¯s back was stiff. Her hand holding the winess froze once more.


    Mr. Lane turned to the side and saw that Justin had really awoken. He immediately pushed Josie to the


    side and picked up a knife at the side that was covered in blood. He used it to lift Justin¡¯s chin. ¡°You¡¯re


    a tough nut to crack. You woke up so quickly. I wonder if you can hold on until your sisteres to


    rescue you!¡±


    Justin¡¯s eyes were bloodshot. He knelt on the floor and bowed to Mr. Lane. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Lane. Please


    give me two days. I will get the money!¡±


    ¡°Why must I extend the deadline for you? Just wait for your sister toe!¡±


    Justin looked at Josie from the corner of his eyes and trembled nervously. ¡°She¡­ She lied! She used


    all her money for my dad¡¯s medical fees. She doesn¡¯t have any money!¡±


    Mr. Lane lightly sliced the knife on Justin¡¯s neck. Blood flowed at once. ¡°It¡¯s not up to you to tell me if


    she has the money. Your sister has to tell me personally!¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Baldy! See where she is! Why isn¡¯t she here yet?!¡±


    Justin whimpered and sobbed as he hung his head dejectedly.


    Josie took a sip of water. As she adjusted the hem of her dress, she pretended to ask casually, ¡°Mr.


    Lane, what did this fellow do to owe you five hundred thousand?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in this business. Mr. Lane threw his knife to the side and made a gesture of counting money. This


    fellow borrowed more than one hundred thousand from me and said he would pay me back within one


    week. He dyed for one month and made me look for him! I found him in Mandarin Oriental Hotel with


    some difficulty and worked hard to get him out of there!¡±


    Mandarin Oriental Hotel was the biggest casino in Wavery. Mr. Lane was powerful enough to get him


    out


    of the casino!


    Josie was still racking her brains. At that moment, his subordinate asked, ¡°Mr. Lane. It¡¯s strange.


    Mandarin Oriental is huge. Why did they keep a small fry like him locked up? Why didn¡¯t they want to


    let him go? It took us so much effort.¡±


    ¡°I was just thinking about that. Who knows what disaster this fellow has caused?¡± Mr. Lane used his


    foot to lift Justin¡¯s chin. ¡°Did you hear that? You have to thank me for bringing you out. You would have


    died if you stayed there any longer!¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Lane! Thank you!¡±


    Josie could no longer watch. She picked up a winess and hugged Mr. Lane, indicating for him to sit.


    down. ¡°Why must you bother yourself with such a person? Sit down and have a drink with Jasmine.


    Wouldn¡¯t that be more enjoyable?¡±


    Mr. Lane¡¯s smile widened, and he kept touching her face. ¡°Pretty women are so good at serving


    customers. Give it to me.¡±


    Josie gave him the winess. This time, he had almost put it to his lips, but someone opened the door


    from the outside.


    ¡°Mr. Lane.¡± It was azy and unruly voice of a young man.


    The man was against the light, so he couldn¡¯t see inside the room, but everyone could see him. Josie¡¯s


    hand trembled while she held the winess. Calvin Barrett?!


    ¡°Hey, Mr. Barrett. Why are you here?¡±


    Mr. Lane immediately pushed Josie away and went up to Calvin.


    Calvin made his way closer as he endured the pungent smell. He smiled indifferently. ¡°I heard that


    you¡¯re having something special in Heaven on Earth today, so I came to look.¡±

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90


    Chapter 90 Calvin''s Territory


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. It¡¯s only the usual fare. My subordinates must have rmed you unnecessarily with


    their ignorance.


    Calvin remained calm as ever and swept a nce over the private lounge. He narrowed his eyes upon


    noticing a woman seated on the couch, concealing her face with her hands.


    ¡°I only wish to remind you that the authorities have kept a tight watch on us recently, so don¡¯t cause any


    trouble,¡± Calvin replied indifferently and asked the waiter behind him to bring in a dozen bottles of beer.


    ¡°Of course I won¡¯t, Mr. Barrett. You showed me such good hospitality and even sent a woman to me.


    Why would I want to cause you trouble?¡±


    The woman covered her face more securely. Seeing that, Calvin smirked and replied, ¡°I wish you an


    enjoyable time, Mr. Lane.¡±


    After Calvin left the room, Josie closed her eyes in despair. She never expected Calvin to own this


    ce.


    Josie could tell from how Calvin looked at her that he recognized her. Yet, he did not say anything. It


    meant he feared Mr. Lane and wanted nothing to do with her.


    Perhaps he would only consider helping her if she mentioned Dexter¡¯s name. However, Josie could not


    say anything at the time for some reason.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett, what¡¯s the matter?¡± the waiter could not help but ask when he noticed Calvin walking fast.


    ¡°Mr. Russell has a business gathering on the top floor, right?¡± Calvin sounded tense.


    Dexter had just arrived and met with a group of people who enjoyed this kind of ce. He had no


    choice. but to join them.


    Most of the people from Landon had arrived. Each senior director had a woman in their embrace. Only


    Dexter sat alone in his seat, fiddling with his cards.


    He pulled out a card and tossed it gently on the table. The police are keeping a close watch these


    days. I was quite surprised by the phone call.


    ¡°I bumped into Mr. Carter at Southeast Reservoirst week. He also said something simr.¡± A portly


    man also tossed a card onto the table. ¡°Seems like you and Mr. Carter have a tacit understanding.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. Arnold will be bored if I don¡¯tpete with him for what he wants.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter calmly indicated to the server to increase his bet


    ¡°Martin Lane has nearly done transferring his properties. Once that happens, he will be charged with


    embezzlement. I¡¯m afraid it means trouble to you and Arnold¡¯s n to purchase Landon.¡±


    -Dexter appeared unfazed. It seemed as if the matter was within his expectation. ¡°There is a solution to


    everything. Martin is dense. He¡¯s the reason for Landon¡¯s decline. It¡¯s easy to deal with foolish people,


    and there are plenty of ways to choose from. Still, thank you for reminding me, Mr. York.¡±


    ¡°Dexter. The man called Mr. York continued frankly, ¡°I¡¯ve always favored you over Arnold. If this matter


    seeds, we will be in the same boat. I want a portion of Landon¡¯s wealth.¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips and was about to speak. However, Calvin suddenly opened the private lounge


    door


    and rushed into the room. He apologized to the guests, I¡¯m sorry for the interruption.¡±


    Then, he leaned toward Dexter¡¯s ear and whispered, ¡°Something happened.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression changed. He knew something severe must have happened to make Dexter


    anxious.


    Thus, he revealed his cards and ced them on the table, saying, ¡°Gentlemen, I¡¯ve won.¡±


    Then, he got up and left the private lounge. The other guests whispered and discussed amongst


    themselves as he left. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Calvin observed Dexter¡¯s expression and said, ¡°Josie is on the third floor.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s usually indifferent expression had turned dangerously intimidating. He ignored Calvin¡¯s


    confusion and voice worriedly, ¡°What is she doing here?¡±

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91


    Chapter 91 Exposing Her Identity


    Josie was still shocked to discover that Calvin owned Heaven on Earth. As she was still thinking. Mr.


    Lane returned to his seat and wrapped an arm around her shoulder. ¡°Mr. Lane is quite impressive.¡±


    Josie lighted his cigarette with a lighter and willed her hands not to shake. ¡°Yes, we won¡¯t be here if not


    for him.¡±


    ¡°Miss, want toe home with me tonight?¡± Mr. Lane leaned close and was about to kiss Josie¡¯s


    check. He seemed pretty pleased with her.


    Josie skillfully avoided him and whispered, ¡°Of course, if you offer the right price.¡±


    Mr. Lane was happy with her response. Josie reached for a ss of beer. However, she identally


    leaned over too much, causing a card to slip out of her pocket and fall onto the carpet.


    ¡°What is that?¡±


    Josie was stunned and almost forgot to breathe when she saw Mr. Lane pick up that card. He ced it


    under the light to look at it more closely.


    Oh no! I forgot to remove it!


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Heaven on Earth guest card?¡± Mr. Lane raised his voice incredulously. Then, his face twisted with fury


    as he red at Josie, ¡°You¡¯re not Mr. Barrett¡¯s staff!¡±


    Josie¡¯s thought was a mess. She was too afraid to move. ¡°I¡­ I must have taken it by ident.¡±


    Mr. Lane grabbed a knife from the table and retreated a few steps. He seemed fully alert. ¡°You there!


    Call that girl now!¡±


    His subordinates rushed to find a phone and called Josie¡¯s number. Luckily, Josie had silenced her


    phone, so they could not catch her with a ringing phone. Still, Mr. Lane refused to give up and ordered,


    ¡°Search


    for her!¡±


    Everything was so sudden that Josie had no time to find an excuse to escape. A group of people


    rushed to her and searched all over the body. They found the phone in her pocket and unlocked the


    screen to find two missed calls.


    ¡°D*mn woman! How dare you trick me?¡± Mr. Lane yelled and threw her phone against the wall,


    shattering


    its screen.


    Josie nearly cked out from fear.


    ¡°Mr. Lane, I came here to negotiate with you. There¡¯s no need to go that far, right? Moreover, you only


    gave me a few hours. How am I to get five hundred thousand?¡±


    She had lost all her sense of yfulness from before and retreated as she spoke. It took all her will not


    to


    cry.


    The knife gleamed in Mr. Lane¡¯s hand. He spat and said, ¡°So you thought to seduce me to write off the


    debt? Look at yourself in the mirror. You think you¡¯re worth five hundred thousand?¡±


    He grabbed Josie¡¯s long hair and dragged her to Justin. ¡°How dare you two trick me?¡±


    The ruse had been exposed, so Justin knew things were hopeless for him. He cried so much that he


    almost


    fainted and could not speak.


    Mr. Lane forced Josie to kneel on the floor, hurting her knees. At the same time, he gripped her hair.


    tightly, forcing her to look up. Then, he ced his knife against her face. ¡°How dare you use a honey


    trap on me? You are the first person to attempt it. Should I press the knife harder? Can you imagine


    being disfigured?¡±


    Josie thought she would die. She shuddered fearfully and said, ¡°Please, let¡¯s talk about this, Mr. Lane. I


    was wrong. I¡¯m sorry for what I¡¯ve done.¡±


    However, Mr. Lane smiled manically. ¡°Are you scared now? I should try then.¡±


    With that, he pressed the sharp tip of the knife into the left side of her face, leaving a red line on her


    snow¨Cwhite skin. Soon, blood dripped from the wound. Josie panicked but did not dare to struggle.


    ¡°Kill me! You might as well kill me!¡±


    ¡°Kill you? You don¡¯t deserve it. It¡¯s too¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop right there!¡± A cold and intimidating male voice interrupted Mr. Lane before someone kicked dow!


    the door.

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92


    Chapter 92 Going Berserk Over Her


    Everyone in the private lounge shuddered fearfully at the noise.


    Mr. Lane turned around and saw a tall figure standing at the door. The man had an overwhelming and


    threatening aura, prompting Mr. Lane to frown and drop his knife in fear.


    Josie slowly nced toward the door. Blood continued to flow from her face. Her vision gradually


    cleared, allowing her to see the furious and intimidating Dexter.


    Dexter immediately found Josie and focused on her. He noticed the despair in her eyes as she kneeled


    on the floor. It seemed like she was trapped in the depths of hell. Seeing her like this sent stabs of pain


    into his heart. She looked even more despondent than when someone snatched her credit at work.


    ¡°Dexter Russell?¡± Mr. Lane called out in disbelief. He never expected to see Dexter here.


    On the other hand, Dexter stood at the door and red at Mr. Lane coldly. He did not bring anyone with


    him, which made him seem even more dangerously insane.


    Dexter pushed up his sleeves and strode forward. He did not give Mr. Lane any time to react. He


    pressed Mr. Lane to the floor and punched him hard, sending blood spluttering from his nose.


    Mr. Lane weighed at least two hundred pounds, but Dexter quickly overpowered him. The veins on -


    Dexter¡¯s neck throbbed. He looked so ferocious that it seemed he would kill Mr. Lane.


    Mr. Lane wailed desperately. His subordinates wanted to help him, but Dexter¡¯s threat stopped them in


    their tracks. ¡°Come at me if you dare!¡±


    Although Dexter was only a young man, everyone feared his threat.


    Mr. Lane covered his nose and eyes and screamed, ¡°Stop! Don¡¯te near!¡±


    After Dexter had enough of beating him, he picked up the knife from the floor and asked Josie, ¡°Which


    hand did he use to hurt you?¡±


    Although Josie was somewhat rational, she could not help but tremble severely as she looked at


    Dexter in this state. ¡°Right¡­ Right hand.¡±


    Dexter forcefully restrained Mr. Lane¡¯s right hand on the floor before bringing the knife down resolutely.


    ¡®Crack!¡® Warm blood sttered on Justin¡¯s face. He rolled his eyes and fainted on the spot.


    Mr. Lane¡¯s scream of pain could be heard throughout the building.


    Dexter not only attacked fast but was quick to clean up his tracks. He took some tissues to wipe his


    fingers clean. Then, he bent down to carry Josie, stepped over the unconscious Mr. Lane, and left the


    private lounge.


    Calvin had been listening outside for some time. He saw Dexter leaving the room andined


    anxiously, ¡°You have gotten too far. Have you any idea how much trouble you caused!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened threateningly. ¡°Step aside.¡±


    Calvin followed them and said, ¡°I¡¯ve dealt with this level and the underground car park. You can drive


    my carter, and this is the key. I will deal with the top floor.¡±


    After saying that, he caught a glimpse of Josie¡¯s face and was stunned. Wow, no wonder Dexter acted


    so


    recklessly.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Josie was in so much pain that her consciousness was blurring. Thest thing she remembered was


    grabbing Dexter¡¯s arm and saying, ¡°Jus¡­ Justin.¡±


    ¡°Calvin will deal with him,¡± Dexter replied coldly.


    Dexter moved fast and carried Josie to the car. He helped her put on the seatbelt and started the


    engine. Calvin knocked on the car window and asked, ¡°Do you want me to delete the surveince


    footage?¡±


    ¡°No, he won¡¯t dare to do anything.¡± Dexter was sure Mr. Lane would not dare to call the police.


    He brought Josie to a private hospital. The doctor was shocked to see them. ¡°This¡­ This¡­¡±


    Dexter responded in an even but firm tone that no one dared to disobey, ¡°I have only one requirement.


    Nothing can happen to her face!¡±


    Josiey in bed as the doctor pushed her toward the emergency room. She tried her best to open her


    eyes but the remaining tears made everything in her sight glimmer like crystals.


    She saw Dexter covered in blood and the cor of his shirt unbuttoned. He looked sexy even in such a


    disheveled state. He noticed her looking at him and met her gaze. His eyes shed with paranoia.


    The wound was shallow, so the doctor soon finished bandaging it. Then, he ensured she had no other


    injuries before pushing her out of the emergency room.

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93


    Chapter 93 Her Face is Valuable


    Dexter washed up and sat in a chair by the bed. He rested his elbows on his legs and hunched while


    thinking about something. At the same time, his face was shrouded with a shadow, making his


    expression


    unclear.


    Josie was still asleep from the effects of anesthesia. Her lips were pale, and her face covered with


    bandages. She looked defenseless.


    He looked at her for a long time until his phone rang in his pants pocket. He let it ring for some time


    before heading to the balcony to answer it


    Josie slept through the night. The effects of the anesthesia finally wore off the following day. She


    opened her eyes and found Julie looking at her worriedly.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re finally awake. I¡¯ve prepared some beetroot soup. It¡¯s good for recovering from


    blood loss. You should eat it while it is still warm¡± Julie was d Josie woke up and brought her a warm


    bowl of


    soup


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Wasn¡¯t I in the hospital?¡± Why am I in Mason Garden?


    ¡°Mr. Russell brought you home this morning.¡±


    Josie touched her face and felt the bandages. ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell is in the study with a guest.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind was still foggy. She got off the bed and looked at herself in the mirror. The bandages


    covered half of her face and looked ugly on her. She remembered Mr. Lane left a long wound on her


    face.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, don¡¯t worry. The doctor said your wound is not too deep and will heal soon. It won¡¯t leave


    a


    scar.¡±


    ¡°But my skin scars easily,¡± Josie said sadly. I bruise easily whenever I bump into anything. It would take


    nearly half a month to heal. This wound will take even longer.


    Moreover, no man will want me if my face is disfigured.


    Josie slumped to the floor in despair. It¡¯s all Justin¡¯s fault. I got myself disfigured to save his useless


    a*s! I wouldn¡¯t have helped him if I knew this would happen!


    Josie felt agitated as she thought about Justin. No, I must look for Dexter.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell!¡± Julie was shocked to see Josie runoff in bare feet.


    The study¡¯s door was not closed properly. Josie pressed herself against the wall and heard the voices.


    inside. She could listen to Calvin speaking.


    ¡°Martin Lane is furious to discover that you caused his younger brother¡¯s hand to be disabled. He said


    he would rather give Landon to Arnold than coborate with Russell Group. There are spirited


    discussions about this in the business circle,¡±


    Calvin sat on the couch and crossed his legs. He had an unbothered tone as if he was a mere


    spectator to the ruckus.


    ¡°Dex, you were too reckless. Alex Lane has been a money lender for many years and is backed by


    powerful


    people. How could you hurt him like that, especially during such a crucial point of the acquisition


    process? It¡¯s a heavy price to pay.¡±


    Dexter held his phone and scrolled the screen casually. He seemed calm and uninterested.


    ¡°If Martin is as powerful as he imed, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to beat up his useless brother so


    easily.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Calvin asked curiously, ¡°Why? Is Josie¡¯s face that valuable? Is it worth giving up Landon for?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s worthless. Moreover, Landon will eventually be mine. It¡¯s only a detour,¡± Dexter put and sounded


    confident. It seemed that what happenedst night did not affect him.


    Calvin snorted and asked, ¡°What should I do about Justin?¡±


    down his phone


    ¡°Let him stay at your ce and put him to work so that he can slowly pay off the debt. Inform Alex


    about this and say this is mypensation to him.¡± Dexter smirked sinisterly, sending chills down one¡¯s


    spine. ¡®Then, he continued, ¡°Tell him I¡¯m sorry for hitting him too hard.¡±


    His tone was devoid of any remorse. Instead, it sounded like he regretted not hitting Alex harder.


    Josie was too engrossed in eavesdropping to move away. Suddenly, Dexter nced at the door and


    asked ¡°Have you listened enough?¡±


    Josie shuddered. She gripped the doorknob and identally fell into the room.

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94


    Chapter 94 How Are My Acting Skills?


    ¡°Mrs. Carroll sent me to inform you guys the food is ready.¡± Josie mumbled sheepishly.


    She was obviously lying.


    Calvinughed in his usual, unruly manner. ¡°Ms. Warren¨C1 mean¨Cmy dear sister¨Cinw, were you


    cavesdropping?¡±


    Startled by his address, Josie instinctively looked at Dexter, who remained silent.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at him. Dex almost tore down my turf, for your sake. I would be a fool if I couldn¡¯t tell your


    rtionship.¡± Calvin exined. Then, he cupped her face. ¡°Besides you, I bet no one in Wavery dares


    to provoke Alex Lane. You¡¯re famous now!¡±


    Josie smiled ruefully, causing her wound to reopen. She grimaced in pain and said, ¡°Thanks to you


    leaving me in the lurch, I¡¯m disfigured now.¡±


    Calvinughed at her sarcastic remark. ¡°Please don¡¯t me me. I need to run my business. I¡¯m kind


    enough to get Dex there.¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes and paused briefly. ¡°I¡¯m entrusting my brother to you. We¡¯re even.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll discipline him properly and return an obedient brother to you in a few years.¡±


    Calvin patted Josie¡¯s shoulder and waved to Dexter. ¡°I¡¯m leaving first, then.¡± He closed the door


    thoughtfully when he left.


    Josie ovepped her toes subconsciously as nervousness crept in. ¡°Your friend is slick with words. It¡¯s


    better to cut ties with him sooner.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t move but stared at her. ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    Stunned, Josie shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m just worried that it¡¯ll leave a scar.¡±


    ¡°Yet, you had the guts to go to Heaven on Earth. Dextermented indifferently while taking out a


    cigarette.


    for


    Josie was fearful of Dexter. She mustered her courage and walked up to him. ¡°Mr. Hallway threatened


    me with Justin¡¯s life. I had no choice.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t light up the cigarette but fidgeted with it. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me?¡±


    ¡°How could I?¡± Josie blurted.


    Dexter shot a re at her, which caused her to flinch. She bit the bullet and exined, ¡°I mean¡­


    You¡¯re not. obligated to help me. I shouldn¡¯t trouble you all the time.¡±


    Dexter smirked as if he had heard a joke. ¡°You¡¯ve already troubled me quite a bit.¡±


    ¡°But I figured out that we¡¯re from different worlds. We should only take what we need from each other,


    but interactions more than that are inappropriate.¡± Josie straightforwardly conveyed her thoughts after


    pondering upon them for a few days.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze fell on her bruised knees. His craving for nicotine had passed, so he kept the cigarette


    back


    in the box.


    ¡°You¡¯re still angry about what happened in the meeting. Dexter made a statement.


    So, he knows. Josie remained silent briefly before mumbling. ¡°Not exactly


    ¡°What is it, then?¡± Dexter¡¯s tone was tinged with coaxing


    He gestured for Josie toe close. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t tell what was on Dexter¡¯s mind. She trotted slowly toward him. Suddenly, Dexter grasped


    her wrist and pulled her close. The faint smell of cigarettes wafted into Josie¡¯s nose.


    Dexter turned on hisptop. The footage of her and Alex in the private room was on the screen. Her


    voice emerged from theptop.


    ¡°Please let me serve you and make you happy tonight.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re my first guest tonight.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever you want tonight¡­¡±


    Josie wanted to flee when she heard the first sentence but to no avail because Dexter seized her.


    She slumped onto the ground in despair. ¡°I was driven to the corner and had no choice. How are my


    acting skills? Pretty good, right?¡±


    Dexter wore a half smile under the dim light. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you could be this flirty.¡±

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95


    Chapter 95 Determined


    Josie¡¯s face reddened in anger and embarrassment. T¡­ Of course, I can¡¯tpare to your extensive


    experiences!¡±


    ¡°Who told you I have extensive experience?¡±


    Josie was about to retort but was taken aback at the same time. It¡¯s hard to believe he¡¯s not a pleasure


    seeker. But to think of it, I¡¯ve worked in thepany for three years but have never heard of scandals


    about him and other women. At most, there were some baseless rumors about him and Ivy. Since we


    married, I¡¯ve not seen him be close with other women.


    While Josie was lost in her thoughts, Dexter looked down upon her from a close distance.


    She lifted her face and was caught off guard by the close proximity. Before she could say anything.


    Dexter stroked her face gently.


    ¡°How capable of you. You nearly caused me to lose a business opportunity.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Josie trembled as she couldn¡¯t stand the increasing temperature from their physical contact. ¡°I did


    know you were there too.¡±


    In fact, it wasn¡¯t his n to head to Heaven on Earth. Yesterday, he was about to leave his office when


    he received a call from Ivy informing him that the senior executives of Landon nned to meet up int


    Heaven on Earth. So, he changed his schedule, not expecting to bump into Josie.


    ¡°Do you know how you would end up if I wasn¡¯t there?¡±


    Josie shivered under Dexter¡¯s touch. ¡°Will I die?¡±


    ¡°On this earth, there are means far more brutal than making you die.¡± Dexter growled threateningly


    when Josie¡¯s bloody lookst night resurfaced in his mind.


    Only then did Jose realize how fortunate she was. She stood frozen momentarily, realizing how


    harrowingst night had been. It was her first time experiencing the closeness of death. At that


    moment, she understood that nothing was more important than her life.


    At that thought, she held Dexter¡¯s warm hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m legally your wife now. You¡¯ll protect me no matter what, won¡¯t you?¡± Josie mumbled with watery


    eyes. looking pitiful. She was a good actor and knew that the best way to control a man was to gain his


    sympathy.


    Dexter retracted his hand after staring briefly at Josie. ¡°You may be excused from work before your


    injuries recover.¡±


    Josie fluttered her eyshes and asked cheekily, ¡°Will you help me apply for leave?¡±


    ¡°Mm¨Chmm.¡±


    ¡°And under which identity?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Dexter didn¡¯t intend to bother with her, so he took his phone and walked out of the


    room.


    Josie slumped onto the ground as darkness crept in. Caressing the gauze on her face, she was


    determined.


    to cling to the powerful Dexter at all costs.


    Perhaps, Josie could no longer separate her life from his ever since they were married. His world was


    complicated ¨C getting rid of a notorious loan shark was a piece of cake for him. Josie would have died a


    terrible death if it weren¡¯t for him.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    When Dexter called Phil from the Human Resource Department to apply for leave on behalf of Josie,


    Phil was surprised. ¡°You¡¯re Ms. Warren¡¯s husband?¡±


    Dexter let out a cough and concealed his original voice. ¡°Yeah. She just had surgery.¡±


    ¡°What surgery is that?¡±


    ¡°An appendectomy.¡±


    Phil chuckled. ¡°I see. Alright.¡±


    Dexter wondered why Phil was amused by his answer.


    Just then. Josie carefully passed a bottle of water to Dexter from behind after opening the like to have


    some water?¡±


    He didn¡¯t receive the bottle but looked at her bare feet. ¡°Aren¡¯t there slippers at our home?¡±


    cap. ¡°Would


    Josie was used to walking barefoot at home. She had aplicated feeling when she heard Dexter


    mention ¡®their home, but she smiled frivolously and uttered. ¡°Why don¡¯t you carry me to get a pair of


    slippers?¡±


    ¡°You might be able to seduce Alex Lane with that look, but not me.¡±

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96


    Chapter 96 Is He Your Husband?


    Josie¡¯s intention was so obvious that Dexter saw through her easily and shot a contemptuous nce at


    her.


    Embarrassed, Josie hurriedly went to put on a pair of slippers and didn¡¯t notice Dexter¡¯s subtle,


    delightful expression.


    The next few days, Josie stayed at home to rest and recover. When she went for a check¨Cup in the


    hospital, the doctor said it was a superficial wound and would recoverpletely by applying ointment


    after the gauze was removed. As such, no scars would be left behind.


    Josie was d to hear that. While prescribing the medication, the doctor asked casually. ¡°Miss, is the


    man who sent you here that day your husband?¡±


    Josie was surprised. Dexter seldom made public appearances, so people outside the business circle.


    shouldn¡¯t be able to recognize him. ¡°Was it that obvious?¡± She asked tentatively.


    ¡°Of course! He was extremely frantic when he brought you in that day as if he wanted to get all the


    doctors in the hospital to treat you. I almost wanted to call the police when I saw your body covered


    with blood. It turned out you only suffered some superficial injuries.¡±


    The doctor¡¯s description sounded extravagant. Josie had never expected outsiders to have such an


    impression of Dexter.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for the trouble caused.¡± The truth was the blood was Alex¡¯s, not hers.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She had not seen Dexter for a few days. Thetter seemed to be busy and had beening homete


    at night. After parking his car in the courtyard, Dexter lifted his head to see Josie sitting on the


    bedroom¡¯s balcony.


    When he entered the house, Josie came downstairs in her slippers and helped Dexter to hang his coat.


    ¡°What would you like to have for dinner? I asked Mrs. Carroll to prepare several cuisines. There must


    be something to your preference.¡±


    Dexter arched an eyebrow doubtfully, does that have to do with you since the food is prepared by


    Mrs. Carroll?¡±


    ¡°I helped with seasoning!¡± Josie squealed.


    Dexter wore a suspicious expression while Josie pushed him to the dining room. ¡°I¡¯m a patient, so I


    can¡¯t cook yet. Please be more understanding. Try some, alright?¡±


    ¨C


    Dexter was forced to sit in the main seat. He wasn¡¯t particrly interested in the table full of delicious


    food because he had had dinner it was an appointment with Martin at Heaven on Earth, in the same


    private room.


    While they were ying cards, Martin uttered with a fake smile. ¡°Mr. Russell, it was ruthless of my


    brother to mess with your woman. I apologize on his behalf.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression remained indifferent. ¡°I was too impulsive. Nheless, I wouldn¡¯t have meddled


    with the matter if it wasn¡¯t Russell Group¡¯s employee.¡±


    Looking shrewd, Martin shrugged. ¡°I reckon she¡¯s not just an employee. Rumors have been running


    wildtely, saying you were all worked up for that woman because she might be your future wife.¡±


    Martin wasn¡¯t fabricating lies. Calvin was right ¨C Dexter¡¯s action had attracted others¡® attention.


    Recently,


    the circle had been buzzing with spections about who the woman was. However, they could only


    find out that she was an employee of Russell Group and nothing else.


    The fact that Dexter strictly suppressed the news was suspicious.


    ¡°Those are just rumors. I¡¯m far from Arnold, who is popr among women. You should know that, Mr.


    Lane. Dexter filled his ss. ¡°Please take this toast as an apology to your brother. Besides, I¡¯ll send


    one million cash to his vi.¡±


    With that, he chugged the wine.


    Martin narrowed his eyes and refused to buy into the superficial apology. In contrast, he perceived that


    Dexter was provoking him ¨C one million was a drop in the bucket for Dexter.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not beat around the bush. Mr. Russell, as a final settlement for the matter, I hope you can


    increase the acquisition price of Landon. It shouldn¡¯t be hard for you.¡± Martin lit up a cigarette and


    smoked it. ¡°As ¡®of now, your n has not been made known to Arnold. Otherwise, when he returns


    from his business trip. and discovers the matter, the acquisition of Landon might turn into a cut¨Cthroat


    competition. I¡¯m proposing this for your good.¡±

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97


    Chapter 97 Would You Divorce Me?


    ¡°Correct me if I¡¯m mistaken, Mr. Lane, but just a few days ago, you made it clear that you would rather


    hand over Landon to Arnold Cartier than give me a chance, Dexter chuckled softly, his face clouding


    over in the dim lighting.


    Martin swallowed, narrowing his eyes. ¡°Mr. Russell, let¡¯s be honest here. I could easily use Alex¡¯s injury


    assessment to take your employee to court. You won¡¯t even have the time to contend with me


    anymore.¡±


    Thinking of Josic, Dexter¡¯s usually expressionless face changed slightly. He set down his cup and


    asked. ¡°Mr. Lane, do you know where your brother took Justin Warren out from?¡±


    ¡°Who is Justin Warren?¡± Martin couldn¡¯t even follow where Dexter¡¯s question was leading him to.


    ¡°He is the person that started all these, Dexter reminded.


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°My hotel, Mandarin Oriental. Dexter, the man always under control, revealed a sinister smile. ¡°Your


    brother has been doing all the illegal deeds. He has blood stains all over his hands from all these


    years, not to mention usury. I could expose him with the proof of him engaging in violence and debt


    collection


    alone.¡±


    Martin hadn¡¯t been handling things personally for years, so it wasn¡¯t surprising that he was unaware of


    Dexter¡¯s capability. He snorted, ¡°Mr. Russell, don¡¯t forget. I have connections.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Lane, there¡¯s a reason why Mandarin Oriental has steadily stood its ce in Wavery for so many


    years, Dexter spoke faster, exuding apelling momentum that silenced people.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    That night was destined to end in discord, and the conversation ended with his facepletely


    darkened.


    ¡°Now I wonder if Mr. Lane¡¯s people can save you from the charge of embezzling public funds.¡±


    The waiter came in with tea, and Dexter stepped forward, walking past him and out of the private room.


    Ivy, who was waiting outside, immediately followed. ¡°Mr. Russell, isn¡¯t this too radical? We haven¡¯t


    secured Landon yet. What if they managed to save Martin?¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t happen,¡± Dexter replied decisively.


    Ivy was slightly stunned. She had followed this man for years and rarely saw him being irrational.


    However, she had already witnessed him losing control so many times in this project, and all of it was


    rted to that woman.


    ¡°Make sure to clean up the mess at Mandarin Oriental, and don¡¯t give anyone a handle,¡± Dexter


    reminded in a low voice.


    ¡°Got it. How about the situation with that employee? Should I go on behalf of thepany to offer


    condolences?¡±


    ¡°No need, Dexter said, tilting his head and ncing at her.


    Stunned, Ivy pursed her lips, a wave of jealousy thrummed through her.


    ¡°What has Arnold Carter been up to recently?¡±


    ¡°There was an incident in his project, and someone died. Public rtions hadn¡¯t been handled properly,


    so


    he went to deal with it. He¡¯s been stretched thin in Wavery recently.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Dexter snapped out of his recollection, and his gaze fell on Josie, who was half¨Cleaning on the table.


    She had poured a bowl of corn rib soup and brought it to him.


    ¡°It¡¯s sweet. Want to taste it?¡±


    She smiled sweetly, not caring whether he had eaten or not.


    Dexter took over the bowl. His eating manners were elegant, sipping it in tiny mouthfuls, and he quickly


    finished it. ¡°Did you remove the bandages at the hospital today?¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s still a scar, and it¡¯s really unsightly since it¡¯s not healed properly,¡± Josie said.


    ¡°The wound is not deep. It will be fine in a few days,¡± Dexter reassured her, gently pinching her chin as


    he examined her scar under the bright light.


    Josie felt ufortable with the physical contact; her body tensed, and her gaze fixed on him. ¡°Dexter,


    would you divorce me if the scar on my face wouldn¡¯t heal?¡±

 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98


    Chapter 98 Rewards And Compensation


    Josie was self¨Caware and knew he cared not because of who she was but who she resembled¨Cthe girl


    in the photograph.


    Dexter let go of her chin. ¡°I didn¡¯t marry you solely for your appearance.¡±


    His cryptic response had Josie chuckle as she mockingly acknowledged her audacity. She gestured


    towards the bowl. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to eat the meat?¡±


    ¡°Are you that eager for me to eat it? Did you poison it?¡± Dexter nonchntly unbuttoned his cuff.


    If I could, I would have done it long ago.¡±


    Dexter nced at her and casually remarked, ¡°You were quite daring at Heaven on Earth, pouring an


    entire pack of sleeping pills into the wine. That was a ruthless move.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips parted in silence surprise. ¡°How did you find out?¡± She had indeed drugged the wine, hence


    her eagerness to make Mr. Lane drink it, but she hadn¡¯t anticipated the interruptions.


    She was surprised that he had discovered her attempted scheme. It seemed that Calvin had more


    skills besides repairingputers.


    Dexter remained silent in response.


    ¡°I had no other choice. It was the only option I could think of,¡± Josie exined carefully, not wanting to


    upset Dexter.


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    ¡°It¡¯s not bad to be daring when you¡¯re my wife,¡± he suppressed his emotions and continued, just try not


    to attend such events in the future. You can¡¯t handle it.¡±


    Having only attended an extravagant event once in her twenty¨Cplus years of living, which nearly cost


    her her life, Josie dared not venture into such a situation again.


    Compared to the fury he had disyed that night, his emotions had dissipated. He appeared calmer


    than ever, but she missed his rage. Dexter seemed more human¨Clike when he expressed his feelings


    openly.


    ¡°My injuries have already healed; it¡¯s just the scar showing. Can¡¯t I return to work?¡± Josie understood


    well that missing a day of work meant earning one less penny.


    ¡°No, the scar would attract too much attention, and people would draw connections, Dexter exined.


    Unaware of Dexter¡¯s reputation in the industry. Josie felt discontented. ¡°Great. My credit was taken


    away, and my sry was cut in half. The bonus I received wouldn¡¯t even cover the loss here. I really


    shouldn¡¯t have run those errands for nothing¡±


    Dexter lowered his gaze. Observing her fiddling with the chopsticks on the table, he suddenly asked,


    ¡°Do you want some ice cream?¡±


    Josie was taken aback by the question. ¡°Huh?¡±


    Dexter instructed Mrs. Carroll to get two ice cream boxes from the fridge.


    Josie grew cautious, her eyebrows twitching as she inquired, ¡°What are you doing? You said those


    were for


    me.¡±


    The two boxes of ice cream were ced on the table, and Dexter smiled lightly, I¡¯m not taking them


    from you, it¡¯s for you to eat.¡±


    ¡°¡­Didn¡¯t you say it¡¯s a reward for work, and I could only eat it when I made progress? But I haven¡¯t


    made any progress.¡± Josie was confused.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a reward,¡± Dexter said as he opened the lid and scooped a bite. He brought the spoonful of


    ice cream to her lips. ¡°No matter what the others think, you were the one that secured the project with


    Kennon. The bonus is the biggest proof of your progress. So, how can you say you haven¡¯t made any


    progress?¡±


    Josie was surprised that he remembered those things. She took a bite of the ice cream hesitantly, the


    coldness of the ice cream aching her teeth. ¡°I thought you were on their side since you didn¡¯t say


    anything that day.¡±


    She had been dwelling on his attitude on this matter until then. It was as if she needed his


    acknowledgment to believe she had seeded.


    Seeing that she had a grip on the spoon. Dexter let go of it.


    ¡°And what¡¯s the reason for the other box of ice cream?¡± Josie licked the ice cream, moaning in


    satisfaction as she thought to herself that expensive food always tasted better.


    ¡°Compensation.¡± Dexter said indifferently, taking out a cigarette box. Pausing momentarily, he decided


    not to smoke and yed with it in his hand. ¡°Alex Lane is a well¨Cknown figure in Wavery. He can be


    intimidating for some, but you attended the event independently, showing bravery and strategy. It¡¯s just


    a pity that your face got scratched. So, it¡¯spensation.¡±

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99


    Chapter 99 Tying His Tie


    Josie bit her inner lip. For some reason, she detected a hint of sarcasm behind his words.


    ¡°Thank you so much. Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter went upstairs with the box of cigarettes in hand.


    As the man disappeared from view, Josie asked Julie to keep the second box of ice cream back in the


    freezer. She could not finish all of it immediately and nned to savor it the next time Dexter suffered


    losses.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    But the sweet taste made her forget all her displeasure. As expected, humans are not made to bear


    bitter things.


    Now that she did not need to work, Josie slept in every day. Because of her injury, the maids did not


    dare. to wake her up, even if she slept into the afternoon.


    She finished off too much ice cream and spent the entire night making trips to the toilet. Exhausted,


    she spent the rest of the day sleeping to make up for the loss of sleep. It was evening when she finally


    woke up. She stretched and headed downstairs to find Dexter on the sofa with ck¨Cframed sses


    as he worked on hisptop.


    She paused in the middle of her step and nced at the time. ¡°Is Mr. Russell back from work, or did he


    not go out today?¡± She whispered to a maid.


    He was usually not home at this hour.


    ¡°Mr. Russell stayed home today.¡±


    Thinking that she had depended on him, Josie felt guilty. She hesitated and decided to idle her room.


    Just as she turned around, the man called out. ¡°Josie.¡±


    She could not just leave and turned back sheepishly. ¡°What is it?¡±


    There was a frosty look on his face. ¡°Wash up. You¡¯re going out with me.¡±


    away back in


    She was unsure about it. ¡°The scar on my face hasn¡¯t healed yet. It will be embarrassing for you.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a problem.¡± He shut the lid of theptop and put it aside.


    ¡°Then, how should I dress?¡±


    ¡°As long as it is suitable for going out, that will do.¡±


    She understood that he had no expectations. It seemed that they were not going somewhere


    particrly important.


    She went upstairs and put on a in dress she usually wore for grocery shopping. Without realizing it,


    the clothes in the closet had begun to pile up, and the room was no longer foreign as she had stayed


    there for a rtively long time.


    Dexter had already changed into a suit when she stepped out. He picked out a tie, and the maid was


    about to tie it. Josie stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    He gave a look, as it was unexpected of her.


    She took the tie from the maid and tiptoed while circling it around his neck. She smiled. Is there


    anything wrong with a wife tying her husband¡¯s tie on him?¡±


    Het womanly scent wafted to him. He kept silent and let her do as she wanted.


    Her deft hands brushed against his Adam¡¯s apple, seemingly unintentionally. She watched as it moved


    up and back down. It was captivating. Thest trace of timidity disappeared, and a yearning for him


    took ce.


    ¡°Dexter, you¡¯re stunning.¡±


    He lowered his eyes and stared at the bowtie. ¡°Did you put on perfume?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s white tea. Does it smell nice?¡± Her greed took over.


    She gave him a coy smile. As the light shone at her at that particr angle, she looked nothing like


    Leanne.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice, but don¡¯t put any on next time.¡± He stepped back to create distance between them and


    headed to


    the door.


    She followed him, gasping for breath. ¡°I¡¯m not done with your tie yet. Wait!¡±


    She did not expect him to move aside swiftly and grasped her thin wrist. He stepped closer and stared


    at her from above. Their breaths intermingled.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    She was caught off guard by the sudden change in the air and forced a smile. ¡°I¡¯m testing if I can


    seduce you, Mr. Russell.¡±

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100


    Chapter 100 Bringing Her to the Casino


    When she saw Dexter¡¯s slim and unapproachable figure standing there earlier, she had a random urge


    to see other expressions on his face. Anger, insanity, and lust. Any other emotions would do.


    He quirked an eyebrow. ¡°I told you, it doesn¡¯t work on me.¡±


    As he finished his sentence, Josie leaned forward. Their lips would touch if one of them spoke. She


    leaned back the tiniest bit. ¡°What a shame.¡±


    His gaze darkened, and the air around them turned cold. He released his grip on her hand. ¡°You don¡¯t


    need to go anymore.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    I¡¯ve crossed the line. Josie immediately stopped. It had been too long since she went out. She could


    not let the opportunity go.


    ¡°I won¡¯t do anything else.¡±


    He kept silent and strode out. The driver, waiting next to the car, went to open the car door when they


    appeared. Josie followed behind Dexter hurriedly. After all, he did not insist on not letting her go.


    At half past seven, the Porsche stopped at the entrance of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Dexter threw a


    face mask at Josie. ¡°Put that on.¡±


    She was reluctant. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you just say so if you thought that I was hideous.¡±


    He did not exin himself and stepped out of the car.


    Dozens of luxury cars, evidently extravagant, were parked at the entrance. Guests were entering and


    exiting the ce. A woman waiting in the lobby immediately moved forward when her benefactor


    arrived and apanied him upstairs.


    A middle¨Caged man was among the people in the lobby. He quickly walked toward Dexter when he


    spotted them. His gaze flitted to the woman wearing a face mask behind Dexter. ¡°Mr. Russell, it has


    been ¨¤ while.¡±


    ¡°How has business been?¡±


    ¡°Same old. All thanks to you, our revenue has not declined at all.¡± The man took a ss from an


    attendant and passed it to Dexter. ¡°I assure you the mistake from the past few days won¡¯t happen


    again. Alex Lee is a sly fox. I didn¡¯t even realize that he had taken the person away.¡±


    Josie stood quietly in the elevator behind them and analyzed what she had heard.


    Alex mentioned Mandarin Oriental Hotel the other day. It turned out that it was Dexter¡¯s territory, and


    Justin was caught at this ce.


    ¡°Have you wrapped up all loose ends?¡± Dexter swirled the untouched ss of liquor.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve handled it. We caught a few moles and dealt with them.¡±


    ¡°Has Mr. Yves been here recently?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Yves is a regr. He camest week and held a small gathering.¡± The man said with high spirits.


    Dexter turned to Josie and gestured for her purse. He gave her a few things before they left.


    ¡°Were these people at Mr. Yves gathering? He pulled out a photograph of a group.


    The man studied the photograph and nodded. ¡°Yes. These people came for several of Mr. Yves


    gatherings Particrly, this one.¡± He pointed at a person.


    Dexter hummed in reply as he had a rough idea of the situation.


    Josie took back her purse, and the elevator stopped at a floor. The man said respectfully, ¡°Mr. Russell,


    what do you have in mind tonight? I¡¯ll ask the staff to prepare.¡±


    They were on the top floor, which was vibrant and buzzing. Men moved about with women in their


    arms. Attendants walked in and out of rooms with casino chips and briefcases.


    Mandarin Oriental Hotel housed thergest casino in the entire Wavery. It was built in a ring shape.


    There were sayings that one game night would cost at least ten million. Yet, it was nothing more than


    just another ce that deluded people into thinking they could strike gold.


    ¡°Do you want to y?¡± Dexter suddenly turned to a dazed Josie and asked in a teasing tone.


    ¡°Are you kidding me? Where am I supposed to get money from?¡±

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101


    Chapter 101 Small Talk


    She replied sarcastically. It was not a tone a subordinate would speak to an employer, prompting the


    person to look at Josie with astonishment.


    ¡°Get two boxes of tokens and send them overter, Dexter instructed the person before indicating to


    Josie to follow him.


    He walked fast. Josie tugged the hem of his shirt and asked worriedly. ¡°Are you going to y?¡±


    Dexter found her fearful expression funny and answered gently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s all right here.¡±


    A game had already begun in the private lounge when they arrived. A few people sat at a table with


    piles. of tokens before them, waiting for the dealer to give out cards. These people were either heirs of


    wealthy families or prominent people.


    One of them astutely recognized Dexter despite the darkness. He immediately stood up and greeted,


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I didn¡¯t expect to see you today.¡±


    Everyone turned to look at Dexter. Meanwhile, Dexter ced his hands behind him and smiled slightly.


    ¡°Does your father know how much you gamble in this ce?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I have missed your ce since I went overseas. What¡¯s wrong with ying a few rounds


    to Satisfy my craving?¡± The person looked young. Josie guessed he was an heir from a wealthy family


    and younger than Dexter.


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    Dexter patted the person¡¯s shoulder. ¡°You shoulde to my ce for horse riding one of these days.


    Let¡¯s see if you maintain your fitness level.


    The person agreed before turning to Josie and joked. ¡°Is she your new assistant? Why is she wearing a


    mask?¡±


    Dexter turned to Josie slightly to introduce them. ¡°He¡¯s Leo Ardon.¡±


    Josie replied, ¡°Nice to meet you, Mr. Ardon. I wear a mask due to my skin allergies. It¡¯s embarrassing to


    show my face.¡±


    was


    She was unsure whether Leo believed her excuse, but he did not seem to mind. ¡°Mr. Russell, do you


    want to join the game? You can have my seat.


    Once he said that, the others at the table urged Dexter to join them. They all looked young and knew


    how influential Dexter was. No one dared to show disrespect.


    Dexter epted the offer and took Leo¡¯s seat. ¡°I¡¯ll y a couple of rounds.¡±


    That¡¯s great!¡±


    ¡°Bring Mr. Russell a drink.


    Thankfully, Josie memorized Dexter¡¯s preferences after what had happened previously. She instructed


    the server, ¡°Mr. Russell would like Earl Grey tea. Make sure to filter the tea leaves twice before


    serving.¡±


    ¡°It must have been hard studying overseas all these years, Dexter said to Leo while casually cing a


    card. on the table.


    ¡°Yes. My father refuses to let me return home. He said I must settle down overseas. However, I


    disagree


    with him. I like Wavery much better.¡± Leoined in frustration as he looked at the cards


    ¡°Mr. Ardon wants the best for you The person opposite Dexter yed a King, so Dexter followed up


    with another card. He seems to be having health issues I didn¡¯t see him at this years reonomic forum¡±


    His health is okay, but he keeps saying he wants to retire. He must have been tired after leading the


    business for many years¡± Leo sounded proud of his father


    ¡°He should retire if he thinks it chest for him. Times are changing too fast. Moreover, your stepmother


    keeps getting into trouble


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Two days ago, my father was furious that she had sought out someone alone and pped


    her when she returned. It was so scary that I dared not make a sound¡± Leo seemed to trust Dester, or


    he thought telling Dexter this would not reveal much.


    The server brought tea Joste took the tea from him and ced it by Dexter¡¯s hand However, the room


    was too dark, so she identally bumped her hand against the cup and caused the hot tea to stter


    on the back of her hand. It soon turned red


    Dexter narrowed his eyes and said tly. ¡°Go deal with it.¡±


    Josie apologized and retreated from the room. She ran to the washroom and washed her hand under


    cold


    water


    Meanwhile. Dexter finished two rounds of games in the private lounge and won each time. Leo enjoyed


    watching Dexter y and urged him to y a few more rounds. However, Dexter decided to stop and


    called the server over. ¡°I will leave these two boxes of tokens for you to share. I hope you all have a


    good time tonight.¡±

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102


    Chapter 102 Ointment on Her Hands


    He did not ask them to pay. The private lounge was filled with cheers of joy.


    Dexter sipped his tea and turned to Leo. ¡°You should listen to your father. Settle abroad as soon as you


    can.¡±


    Leo¡¯s expression changed as he finally realized the meaning behind those words. He had questions to


    ask, but Dexter, who did not want to say much, had already left.


    Josie washed her hands, but they were still stinging. I always get hurt when I¡¯m with Dexter. What


    rotten luck!


    She left the washroom to find him in the corridor, leaning against the railing while making a call. ¡°It¡¯s


    confirmed. The one above Martin Lane is a person called Ardon.¡±


    He replied with a hum after a moment of pause, and his eyes fell on Josie. She hadplied all this


    time and kept the mask on. He waved to her.


    She went up to him and heard vaguely the voice on the other end of the call saying, ¡°You can look


    forward to the news,test by November.¡±


    ¡°October. I cannot wait.¡± He pinched her hand. The redness that would not leave bothered him.


    The person on the other end replied hesitantly, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    The call ended. Dexter kept his phone as an attendant went up to them. ¡°Here¡¯s the thing you


    requested, Mr. Russell.¡±


    It was a tube of ointment for burns. He took it and opened the cap. ¡°Does it hurt a lot?¡±


    Josie suddenly felt that her hand was unimportant. She asked curiously, ¡°Were you testing Mr. Ardon?


    And you got some useful information out of it.¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡±


    ¡°It seemed you were concerned for him, but you were just fishing for information. He¡¯s a fool for


    revealing everything. It looks like he thinks of you as his biological brother.¡± Her injury felt soothed as


    he spread the ointment over her hands. ¡°He never would have expected this brother¡® to hurt him.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow and gave her a look. ¡°You¡¯re painting me ck.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re not?¡± Josie gave him an incredulous look. She could notbel the cunning man as a


    reasonable person in any way.


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    Back then, she only knew him as the CEO of Russell Group. She did not know that he was a close


    friend of Heaven on Earth¡¯s head or that he was Mandarin Oriental Hotel¡¯s actual boss. It was child¡¯s


    y if he wanted to make a person disappear.


    Fear budded in her heart.


    The redness finally reduced as the ointment was spread evenly on her hands. He put the unfinished


    tube into her purse and headed to the elevator.


    ¡°The world is not as simple as you think. If I don¡¯t make a move, others will.¡±


    Josie widened her steps to follow him. She did not pursue the matter anymore. ¡°Is this ce simr to


    Mr.


    Barrett


    Theres a world of difference between the two His is underground while mine is legal¡±


    With current politics opening a legal castro in Wavery was not umpir. Dexter had not onis done it but


    also developed it into a tourist destination When travelers from other countries ame to Wavery they


    always stopped by the casino for a game or two


    ¨C


    But because it was a legal establishment, under¨Cthe¨Ccounter dealings were much easier


    Perhaps because Dexter was always by her side Joue did not feel afraid but instead found it fun. It was


    the opposite when she was in Heaven on Earth


    They stepped out of the hotel Josse pulled her mask down for some fresh air. But before she could


    speak. Dexter said in a low voice. Put it back on


    Baffled, she raised her head to see a ck Cayenne stopping before them as its window rolled down.

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103


    Chapter 103 She''s Gorgeous, but Are You?


    The streetlight shone into the car, illuminating the sinister look of the man ¨C it was Arnold.


    Propping his elbow on the car window, he examined the woman behind Dexter and teased, ¡°What a


    coincidence to meet you again, Miss.¡±


    Josie was caught off guard being recognized by Arnold and felt her scalp tingling as he stared at her.


    ¡°We meet again, Mr. Carter.¡±


    cing his hands at the back, Dexter looked down upon Arnold and uttered, ¡°I should be honored that


    you came to Mandarin Oriental the moment you returned to Wavery.¡±


    Arnold chuckled with a hint of anger. ¡°The news of you getting all worked up for a woman has spread in


    the circle. Of course, I have toe and support your business.


    Josie carefully observed the two men¡¯s expressions. She thought Dexter had handled the matter but


    didn¡¯t expect it to have spread. At the same time, she was worried about bing the target of public


    attention.


    Dexter¡¯s expression was indiscernible, but he seemed unaffected by Arnold¡¯s remark. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect


    you to believe the rumors.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t believe it, but seeing thisdy standing behind you just happened to catch my eye.¡± Arnold


    smiled and asked Josie, ¡°Are you here today to report to Dexter also?¡±


    Josie gazed at him. I¡¯m here with Mr. Russell to attend to some work matters.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Arnold appeared to be a yboy, seemingly unpretentious, but people like him were more dangerous


    because one couldn¡¯t tell their evil intentions.


    ¡°Miss Warren, have you read War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand why Arnold asked the sudden question. ¡°I¡¯ve not read it, but I have a rough idea


    of the plot.¡±


    ¡°But are you familiar with the romance between Prince Andrei and Natasha?¡±


    Josie stole a nce at Dexter¡¯s expression while contemting how to answer Arnold. ¡°Only the gist of


    it.


    ¡°Despite his father¡¯s objection and his poor health, Prince Andrei still proposed to Natasha, only to be


    betrayedter on. In my opinion, it shows how deeply in love he is. You¡¯re lucky to be Natasha, Miss


    Warren.¡± Arnoldmented with a mysterious smile.


    After saying that, Arnold leaned against his seat and raised his car window. Then, he sped away,


    leaving a wisp of smoke from the car exhaust.


    Josie asked Dexter anxiously, ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡±


    She could only see his jaws but couldn¡¯t see his expression clearly due to the backlight. Nheless,


    she perceived a tinge of contempt.


    ¡°Ignore him. He¡¯s been stress recently working on a project and came here to vent his anger.¡± Dexter


    walked toward the car park.


    Josie didn¡¯t understand Dexter. She felt something was off and quickly caught up with him. ¡°Do many


    know that it was you who saved me in Heaven on Earth?¡±

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104


    Chapter 104 Jenny Turner''s Outburst


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    The y of streetlights created captivating shadows and light, infusing the interior of the car with an


    enchanting atmosphere.


    Meanwhile, Josie leaned in to study the man resting with his eyes closed.


    Man, what a waste. With his striking looks, he would undoubtedly stand out amidst the sea of


    heartthrobs in showbiz!


    ¡°Speak up if you¡¯ve got any questions.¡± Dexter was fully aware of his surroundings despite eyes closed.


    Caught red¨Chanded, Josie blushed with embarrassment.


    After a brief pause, she cautiously inquired, ¡°So, I kind of overheard you talking to the staff today. You


    said Mr. Lane kidnapped Justin from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel that day. Hmm¡­ are you aware that


    he¡¯s been lurking in your turf all along¡­?¡±


    No wonder Justin hadn¡¯t shown up for the past few days. It turned out he had already been kidnapped


    by Mr. Lane. But Dexter hadn¡¯t mentioned a single word and continued to give her rides to work as


    usual. It was definitely odd.


    A trace of unease flickered across Dexter¡¯s face when Josie posed her blunt question. Still, with eyes


    closed, he said, ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±


    Josie nodded to herself but recalled his conversation with the staff. There was a contradiction in his


    words.


    Something about it didn¡¯t sit right with Josie.


    Josie¡¯s stealthily pondered on the causality. Upon ncing at Dexter once more, she noticed that his


    initially tense expression had transformed into a smile.


    Well, if he insisted he didn¡¯t know, she would take his word for it.


    The following day, Dexter left Mason Garden in the early hours. When Josie awoke and found him


    gone, she freshened up and set off to the beauty salon. Intending to return to work as quickly as


    possible. Josie spared no expense to ensure she was fully prepared.


    Inside the beauty salon, one of the staff approached Josic, inquiring if she had made an appointment.


    Josie promptly revealed the QR code on her phone, leading to an immediate smile and a warm


    reception.


    They walked through a corridor adorned with elegant aesthetics, passing a female cleaner who


    instinctively lifted her gaze to wee the approaching guest. Suddenly, the cleaner eximed,


    ¡°Josie?!¡±


    Startled, Josie stood frozen, locking eyes with the middle¨Caged woman before her.


    It was Jenny! Clutching a broom, she red fiercely at Josie as if she wanted to devour her alive.


    Acting instinctually, Josie stepped back, finding shelter behind the staff, and asked, ¡°What do you


    want?¡± ¡°You told me you were broke, but here you are, pampering yourself with luxury beauty


    treatments! You¡¯re a liar!¡± Jenny hurled the broom on the floor, rolled her sleeves, and crossed her


    arms as her anger erupted. The staff, puzzled by the situation, asked, ¡°Ms. Warren, do you happen to


    know our cleaningdy¡­?¡±


    Stunned, Josie vigorously shook her head and urged the staff to keep walking. ¡°No, no¡­ I don¡¯t know


    her. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare walk away!¡± Jenny rushed forward, gripping Josie¡¯s arm tightly, and scolded. ¡°You need


    to exin everything today! Did you have a hand in Justin going there? You¡¯re despicable! How could


    you send my son there and let him be kidnapped?! The Warrens are doomed!¡±


    Justin had confided in his mother about his n to work in Heaven on Earth to repay his debt. Jenny


    was shocked when Justin revealed that he would be bound there for five or even ten years to settle his


    debts.


    He had also told his mother that it was all Josie¡¯s doing, along with her wealthy husband, Dexter


    Russell. the CEO of the Russell Group.


    It turned out that Josie had money this whole time but didn¡¯t lift a finger to help her own family! She just


    sat back and watched the Warrens go through all the hardships of poverty without lending a helping


    hand!


    Josie¡¯s frustration boiled over as she eximed. ¡°Bullshit! Your son would¡¯ve been beaten to death if it


    weren¡¯t for me! Look at this! This scar! It¡¯s all thanks to your son!¡± She yanked down her mask,


    revealing a


    Jenny was taken aback, but she refused to release her grip on Josie and shouted at the top of her


    lungs. ¡°I don¡¯t care! Bring my son back, or I¡¯ll expose your rtionship with the Russell Group¡­


    Feeling flustered, Josie swiftly covered Jenny¡¯s mouth with her hand, clenching her teeth, and


    commanded in a hushed tone. ¡°Shut up!

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105


    Chapter 105 Do You Want Him Alive or Dead


    I can¡¯t believe even Jenny knows! Justin¡¯s going to end up in h*ll!


    Jenny wouldn¡¯t back out. She bit Josie¡¯s hand forcefully as she struggled on the floor.


    ¡°Someone help me! She is targeting the person who cared for her for over ten years. What an


    ungrateful brat! Hurry up and look at how she mistreats me!¡±


    Jenny intentionally fell to the ground and shouted at the top of her lungs.


    Josie felt her hair stand as the hypocritical act unfolded before her eyes. ¡°Get up right now! Aren¡¯t you


    embarrassed?¡±


    Jenny continued to cry her eyes out while hitting her thighs. She wasn¡¯t willing to move an inch from


    her .spot.


    People started toe out of their private rooms when they heard themotion. They were all


    upper- ss and wealthydies who were snickering at the scene. One of themined to the staff,


    ¡°What is happening? Why is it so noisy? Do you just let anyone in?¡±


    The staff was put in a difficult position and stuttered, ¡°Ms. Warren, this..


    Josie felt her face flush under the mask. She inhaled deeply, knelt before Jenny, and softly warned her.


    ¡°Do you want your son to live?¡±


    In a split second, Jenny paused in the middle of her tantrum. Her eyes widened as her hands reached


    out to grab Josie. ¡°What do you mean? What are you nning to do to my son?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you continue throwing a fit, and we¡¯ll see what happens?¡± Josie¡¯s voice was soft, but her


    tone was assertive and unwavering. Jenny¡¯s eyes trembled in fright, and she scrambled to her feet.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk elsewhere,¡± Josie ordered her.


    As they walked away, thedies in the beauty salon rolled their eyes in contempt amid receiving their


    facial treatment. ¡°What ack of ss.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Ardon, I vaguely heard them mentioning Russell Group. It¡¯s the corporation under the Russell


    Family


    Thedy, addressed as Mrs. Ardon, was calm andposed. She shrugged it off by saying, ¡°It doesn¡¯t


    matter. How would those two have anything against the Russell Group?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    At the same time, a confrontation ensued on the other end of the corner.


    ¡°I only have one thing to say. Get my son out of there. He has to get married!¡± Jenny¡¯s face turned red,


    and her veins were about to pop out of her neck.


    Josie smirked at her and scornfully replied, ¡°Who is he getting married to? Nicole Hart? She left


    Wavery so she wouldn¡¯t need to get married to your son!¡±


    Jenny seemed unaware of this fact. Her eyes were zing red as she yelled coldly. ¡°You¡¯re talking


    nonsense! She has no reason to leave! You must¡¯ve told Nicole about Justin!¡±


    Josie held onto her wrist. As she tightened her grip, Jenny winched in pain.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯m the one who told Nicole! Anyone in their right mind wouldn¡¯t want to marry Justin!


    Don¡¯t you think you should thank me instead? If it weren¡¯t for me, Justin wouldn¡¯t have the chance to


    repay his debts and would¡¯ve already been beaten to death.¡±


    ¡°You! You!¡± Her hands started to shiver as she pointed her finger at Josic. I¡¯ll find your wealthy husband


    and tell him about your shameless attitude! I¡¯ll make him get my son out of there!¡±


    Josie pushed her hands away and warned her, ¡°If you dare to go near him. I¡¯ll let your son rot there for


    life! Try me!¡±


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    Jenny was utterly defeated. Her eyes red at Josie with rage and hatred.


    ¡°Do you want your son alive or dead? It¡¯s up to you.


    ¡°If I were you, I wouldn¡¯t embarrass myself here by blurting out nonsense. Instead, I would treat my


    husband well and wait patiently at home for my son.¡±


    Josie left immediately and went to the staff to lead her back to the room.


    She was confident that Jenny didn¡¯t have the guts to find Dexter, nor would she ever have the chance


    to meet him face to face. However, today¡¯s incident at the beauty salon was risky, especially if


    someone with ill intentions heard their conversation.


    As she mulled over that thought, she took a deep breath and pulled up her mask.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106


    Chapter 106 Practice


    Inside the vast office, the sun shone brightly through therge windows, slightly heating up the floor.


    Ivy sat at the coffee table and poured a cup of tea. ¡°Mr. Russell, Landon isn¡¯t making any moves. I


    believe Martin Lane wouldn¡¯t act recklessly as he is afraid of


    you.¡±


    ¡°The situation is different now that Arnold Carter is back.¡±


    Dexter held a cigarette between his fingers. He slightly sniffed the cigarette and showed no hint of


    concern or fear.


    Ivy froze as she was pouring the tea. ¡°Arnold Carter came back yesterday. Have you seen him?¡±


    ¡°Yes, in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.¡±


    Ivy looked down and felt a surge of uneasiness creeping up her whole body. Dexter hasn¡¯t invited her


    to apany him to any events recently. Moreover, she had no idea that he had gone to the Mandarin


    Oriental Hotel yesterday or with whom he was spending his time.


    She poured a cup of Earl Grey tea and passed it to Dexter. His forehead creased upon tasting it. It


    wasn¡¯t as good as the one he hadst night.


    Ivy noticed his expression and immediately asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer her question. Instead, he put down the cup and interjected with his own question.


    ¡°How did Arnold settle the project in Rivodia?¡±


    ¡°He used cash to shut them up. Nothing can¡¯t be solved in this era with a load of money.¡±


    ¡°What about the public uproar?¡±


    ¡°He diverted their attention by revealing another buzz¨Cworthy news through the media.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s the progress of thend in Silmark?¡± He lit up the cigarette and took a puff


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s in order. It¡¯ll be in Russell Group¡¯s hands after the bidding process.¡±


    Ivy answered his questions diligently. Her gaze rested on the cup of tea he had only taken a sip of


    Dexter nodded and didn¡¯t ask any more questions.


    Ivy observed his expression before speaking again. ¡°Mr. Russell, the cost to acquire Silmark is quite


    high. If Landon participates in the bidding, Russell Group¡¯s capital will be strained.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll use it for practice.


    Ivy couldn¡¯t wrap her head around what he meant. Why would he take over Silmark for practice? It¡¯s a


    large property with schools surrounding it.


    Dexter had only finished half his cigarette before stubbing it in the ashtray. He got up and took his coat.


    ¡°Chris is on leave today. I¡¯ll need you to take me there.


    Ivy let go of all her suspicions and followed him delightfully.


    Dexter rarely drove on his own as he needed some quiet time to sort out his thoughts. An ident


    would


    be waiting for him, with his thoughts being constantly preupied. He only drove a few times, and it


    was all because of Josic,


    Dexter suited up and walked with long strides in the quiet parking lot. Ivy followed behind in high heels,


    almost scampering to keep up with his pace.


    She pressed the car key to unlock the car doors.


    Suddenly, arge shadow appeared behind their car, and they walked directly to Dexter. He furrowed


    his brows and stepped backward.


    It was a middle¨Caged woman with wrinkled skin. She put on a broad smile, fawning upon him, as she


    asked. ¡°Are you Mr. Russell?¡±


    Ivy stepped in front of Dexter and told her off, ¡°Who are you? How dare you act so rudely?¡±


    She wore cheap clothing and wasn¡¯t someone with ss or wealth.


    Jenny didn¡¯t spare a nce at Ivy as she stared at the fine man behind her. He had an extravagant


    presence with an outstanding physical appearance.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯m Josie¡¯s mother!¡±


    Dexter froze as his forehead scowled into a tight knot.


    His voice traveled from above Ivy¡¯s head. ¡°You should leave first.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, she¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you need me to repeat my words?¡± Dexter lowered his tone.


    Ivy had no choice but to back away and pass him the keys.


    Jenny felt assured that her n would work.

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107


    Chapter 107 Demand for a Gift


    Dexter rubbed his temple and asked, ¡°Why did youe to find me?¡±


    Jenny looked at him solicitously. ¡°I¡¯m aware that you got married to our Josie. Don¡¯t worry; I won¡¯t let


    anyone else know about it.¡±


    He raised his eyebrows and stared at her without saying a word.


    He had an overbearing charisma that made Jenny feel small and jittery. She carefully continued, ¡°Well,


    I deserve a gift aspensation for my daughter¡¯s hand in marriage. I understand Mr. Russell is of a


    different ss and background, but it¡¯smon courtesy to treat your elderly with respect.¡±


    Seeing how he stayed silent, Jenny grew bolder with her demands. ¡°Now that your wife¡¯s parents are


    aware, it¡¯s not toote to offer your respects. What do you think, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter looked down as he slowly figured out what was happening. I am aware that the man in the


    hospital is considered Josie¡¯s father, but I have no idea who you are,¡± he answered indifferently.


    Jenny choked up before she ranted, ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable! I¡¯ve also raised Josie for over ten years.


    How can you act so arrogant toward me? She must¡¯ve criticized me behind my back, as she¡¯s always


    beert ungrateful!¡±


    Is that true?¡± Dexter interjected her. ¡°If you¡¯re Josie¡¯s mother, you would¡¯ve known that I¡¯ve not only


    given her thirty thousand for her father¡¯s medical fees but have also gathered the top medical


    professionals to cure her father.¡±


    There was no hint of emotions on his face, but his words weighed her down and left her momentarily


    speechless.


    Of course, I¡¯m aware, but it¡¯s a different matter. As the CEO of Russell Group, do you think you can


    take away my daughter with merely thirty thousand?¡±


    ¡°If you knew, you should be grateful for the thirty thousand that saved your husband. But, instead,


    you¡¯re here making a scene to get more money from me.¡±


    Dexter stroked the car keys and refuted her unreasonable ims in aposed voice.


    Jenny couldn¡¯t say anything. She took a deep breath and offered him an ultimatum. ¡°What about this?


    Give me another seventy thousand, and you can have Josie. If you¡¯re not willing to ept this offer. I¡¯ll


    inform the media about your marriage!¡±


    Despite her hasty character, she was quick¨Cwitted. She knew there must be a reason this marriage


    couldn¡¯t be announced to the public.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes and stared at her with contempt. Finally, he bit his lips and scoffed, ¡°You sure


    have a strong appetite for money. Do you think your daughter is worth seventy thousand?¡±


    Jenny widened her eyes. She was stunned to find out that her daughter was not as appealing to the


    man as she had thought.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you try and see the oue of your actions? Here, I¡¯ll paint a picture for you. Your son is


    being held forcefully in Winmont with an unreasonable boss who would take his life at any moment.


    What do you think? Do you want to try and see how it feels?¡±


    Dexter casually opened his car door, leaned his hands on the roof, and sneered at her. ¡°At your age. I


    believe you won¡¯tst long there.¡±


    Jenny¡¯s eyes were red red. ¡°¡­ Josie said the same thing today. It turns out that both of you are the


    culprits!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not a coincidence. I¡¯m the person behind it,¡± he confidently admitted. Then, all of a sudden, his face


    stiffened, and he turned over to re at her just as he was about to leave. ¡°You met Josie?¡±


    Jenny¡¯s feet faltered, and she took a step back without answering.


    ¡°Where did you meet her?¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In the beauty salon. It looked like she went for a facial treatment.¡± Jenny felt anxious and caressed the


    hem of her shirt as she answered.


    When her response was met with silence, she quickly exined further.

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108


    Chapter 108 Her Past


    ¡°You can¡¯t me me for doing this. My husband is lying on the hospital bed, and my son¡­ my son is


    being tormented in the ce you sent him to. I have no choice but to rely on Joste.¡±


    She tried to gain his pity.


    you


    Dexter threw his keys into the car and didn¡¯t seem to be in a rush anymore. ¡°You mentioned raised


    Josie for more than ten years. Why don¡¯t you share how you raised her during those years?¡±


    Jenny was startled and struggled to utter a single word,


    ¡°When she was in high school, she insisted on going to the summer camp, so my husband had to work


    extra hours in odd jobs to cover the cost of her camp. Later, my husband used all his ten¨Cyear savings


    to send her to university. If it wasn¡¯t for him, how would she be the person she is today!¡± Her eyes


    wandered in fear before she continued, ¡°What¡¯s the point of spending so much on her education when


    she ended up getting married without repaying her parents.¡±


    Upon hearing what she said, the tiniest hint of emotion on his face had disappeared.


    ¡°What about after she went to university?¡±


    Jenny wasn¡¯t confident enough to persuade him anymore. Her voice became softer as she continued.


    ¡°She worked part¨Ctime and didn¡¯te home often. When she did return home, her father would give


    her two to three hundred. He was secretive and wouldn¡¯t provide anything for me and my son.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t difficult to work during college as there was ample time between sses. However, she would


    struggle to save money, as she had to keep up her grades while covering all her daily expenses.


    She was forced to reduce her spending on food and clothing, which was why she became very frugal.


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter regained his senses and nced at the woman in front of him. ¡°You have a good daughter, but


    unfortunately, she never had a good mother, he remarked with an icy tone, sending a chill down her


    spine.


    Jenny continued to pester him, holding his car door open and refusing to let him go. ¡°You see.¡±


    ¡°Fifteen thousand will be transferred to your bank tonight. If I see you appear in front of Josie again,


    you¡¯ll face the consequences. I suggest you stay away from any trouble, even if it¡¯s to keep your son


    alive. I¡¯ve never given a second chance to anyone.¡±


    Dexter closed the door forcefully as soon as he warned her. Jenny fell to the ground at the sudden pull.


    She wasn¡¯t satisfied but didn¡¯t dare to speak up again.


    He wasn¡¯t someone easy to deal with. His eyes were like cold, hard steel which glinted with a


    dangerous light.


    When the door to the elevator opened in the car park, the people exiting were shocked at the sight of


    Ivy. ¡°Ms. Miller, why are you here?¡±


    Ivy emerged from the corner, her face a mask of dread. ¡°It¡¯s nothing¡±


    She went into her car and leaned on the steering wheel. She felt her head was about to burst when she


    heard Dexter admit he was married to Josie. Her pulse throbbed through her veins as she recalled his


    words.


    How could this happen? He was clearly worried about that girl!


    Ivy always thought that the people she was fighting with to win Dexter¡¯s heart were the affluent upper-


    ssdies, gorgeous top celebrities, or intelligent and sessful women in theirpany. But he


    married Josie, who was in, ordinary, and had nothing to offer him!


    She had seen Josie¡¯s file. Josie was an unremarkable employee with average looks. Her family


    background was poor, and her mother and brother had unsavory characters. Dexter was entirely out of


    her league. Why did he marry her?


    Ivy gripped tightly onto her steering wheel, and her eyes were red¨Crimmed. A bitter sense of pain coiled


    around her heart as she felt defeated by an ordinary girl.


    As she walked away, the middle¨Caged woman¡¯s silhouette grew smaller in the rearview mirror.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Jenny¡¯s words spurred a whirlwind in his mind. He hit the gas as his mind started racing,


    Dexter and Josie arrived at Mason Garden around the same time.


    Her face felt smoother after her facial treatment. When she saw Dexter¡¯s Porsche, she immediately


    walked over and knocked on the window. ¡°Why did youe home so early?¡±

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109


    Chapter 109 Gifted a Golden Card


    1


    Josie took off her mask. Whenever she looked at someone, her eyes would light up with genuine


    interest He almost fell into her deep, fathomless eyes. He wasn¡¯t hurrying to get down the car, so he


    winded down the windows. ¡°Where did you go?¡±


    Josie noticed he wasn¡¯t in a good mood, so she answered thoughtfully, ¡°I went out for a while. Why?¡±


    ¡°I asked where did you go. Dexter didn¡¯t budge and kept his gaze fixed in her direction.


    ¡°I went to the beauty salon.


    Josie finally answered Dexter honestly, but her fingers were pressed tightly into her palm, leaving


    marks. She didn¡¯t dare reveal the truth at first as it didn¡¯t suit the image she had in front of Dexter.


    But since he persisted, he must have been aware of it already.


    Dexter finally left the car and went into the vi. She followed closely behind.


    ¡°Dexter?¡±


    How did he know?


    The maid helped him to remove his coat. With a graceful lift of his head, he revealed his strong, elegant


    neck. ¡°You went for a facial treatment?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I wanted to remove the scar and return to work as soon as possible,¡± Josie answered frantically.


    She was afraid he would misunderstand her.


    Dexter stood by her side as he lifted her chin. The delicate peach fuzz was visible on her pale skin,


    making her youthful appearance stand out even more. She didn¡¯t have lipstick on, but her lips were


    rosy. He narrowed his eyes and replied, ¡°It does look better. Have you signed up for their


    membership?¡±


    Josie was astounded by his response. She shook her head and answered, ¡°No, it¡¯s too expensive. I¡¯m


    nning to go either once or twice only.¡±


    ¡°Which beauty salon did you go to? I¡¯ll ask someone to help you get it done.¡±


    Dexter released her chin gently, his fingers lingering for a moment before letting gopletely.


    Josie felt concerned as it would be too risky for him to do this openly. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea.


    He didn¡¯t reply and had an inscrutable expression on his face. However, it seemed easier to converse


    with him today.


    Josie confidently reached out to grab onto the hand that touched her face. She felt a sudden shiver in


    her spine from touching his cold hands. ¡°Dexter, what if someone finds out you got the membership for


    me?¡±


    His gaze rested on her hands. ¡°It¡¯s not a problem. We¡¯ll have it under the staff¡¯s name.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curved into a wide, genuine smile.


    ¡°I always have to rely on your staff. I guess I can¡¯t me Mr. Carter for calling me Natasha from War


    and Peace. Dexter, what if I truly act like a Natasha?¡± She batted her eyelids coyly, her eyes sparkling


    with a pure and alluring gaze.


    Although he had been smoking, there wasn¡¯t a hint of a scent on his body. She was curious to see what


    was beneath his perfect exterior.


    Dexter peeled her fingers away as he uttered, ¡°There won¡¯t be such a day.¡±


    Josie raised her hands above her head as if she was surrendering. ¡°Really? If it was the old you, you


    would have immediately pushed my hands away and would have scolded me for being delusional. But


    you hesitated just now.¡±


    The warmth of her hands still lingered.


    Dexter took out a wet tissue and wiped his hands. ¡°What about now?¡±


    Josie¡¯s body froze in ce. She quickly averted her gaze, mortified by her foolish actions.


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    ¡°Sorry, I won¡¯t tease you anymore.¡±


    Dexter went upstairs without saying anything to her..


    Josie leaned against the door frame, her lips curving into a mischievous smile.


    Would that day really not arrive? Although it looked like nothing had changed, based on her instincts,


    she knew that there was something different about him.


    Dexter had one positive trait. He would never make empty promises.


    The next day, when Josie woke up, she saw a membership card for the beauty salon beside her bed.


    Their maid informed her that she could enjoy free premium facial treatments for the next ten years.

 Chapter 110

    Chapter 110


    Chapter 110 Coincidentally Saw Mrs Ardon


    Josie picked up the gold¨Ccolored membership card and stared at it under the sunlight. It looked like


    real gold to her.


    ¡°Mr. Russell is surely avish spender.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he treats Mrs. Russell the best.


    Josie smiled light¨Cheartedly but didn¡¯t take her words to heart. She ced the card down and patted


    her face. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I can enjoy such luxury in this life,¡±


    The maid was taken aback by her behavior.


    After she received the card, Josie visited the beauty salon a few more times. The staff treated her


    better when they saw the golden card. She even got a private room for her facial treatment and was


    served fruits and drinks.


    Josie felt out of ce in the exclusive salon, surrounded by more beautiful and elegant women. She felt


    like a small sparrow among phoenixes.


    ¡°Can I ask you something? Are the people in the VIP rooms all from a conglomerate background?


    Josie asked the esthetician softly. Since Dexter spent a significant amount of money for her to get


    treatment here, all the women here must¡¯vee from affluent backgrounds.


    The esthetician patiently answered, ¡°Yes, they are from affluent families. Most of them are married into


    a conglomerate family as well.¡±


    When her assumptions were proven correct, Josie nodded. ¡°Are they really fierce?¡±


    The esthetician¡¯s lips curved into a warm smile at her remark. ¡°Most of them. do act politely.¡±


    After her facial treatment, she went into the washroom before leaving.


    Outside the washroom stall stood a few women dressed extravagantly. Their face clearly went under


    the knife before, as it was exceptionally refined and delicate.


    ¡°Mrs. Ardon, I heard Leo lost a few rounds at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Did he get scolded?¡± One of


    the women asked.


    ¡°Hmph, that gambler! It would be hard for him to seed in the future,¡± Thedy addressed as Mrs.


    Ardon looked upset and wiped her face with a towel.


    There¡¯s still hope. After all, he¡¯s the only son in the Ardon Family. He¡¯ll eventually mature and take over


    thepany.¡±


    Josie overheard their conversation in the stall. The story sounded familiar.


    The Ardon family? Leo Ardon? Isn¡¯t he the young boy Dexter met at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel?


    So the person outside was Mrs. Ardon? His stepmother?


    ¡°It would be faster for me to give birth to another before he finally matures, but my husband couldn¡¯t


    take it anymore.¡±


    The two women startedughing. Their giggles made Josie¡¯s cheeks flush with redness.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°How do you feel? I¡¯ll be direct. You¡¯re his second wife. After he¡¯s kicked the bucket, how much would


    he leave for you? Have you thought of a n for yourself?¡±


    Mrs. Ardon took a deep breath and replied, ¡°Of course, I have a n. I can¡¯t only depend on the Ardon


    Family. If I can¡¯t have anything, neither should they.¡±


    She continued slyly, ¡°I went to Landon a few days ago to meet with their executives and obtained some


    evidence.


    ¡°Bang¡±


    Josie¡¯s handphone fell on the ground, and their conversation stopped abruptly. She closed her eyes,


    feeling like a fool. She wished the ground would open up and swallow her..


    After a short moment. Josie slowly opened the door of the stall and walked out calmly to wash her


    hands,


    When she was about to leave the washroom, Mrs. Ardon called after her, ¡°Stand there!¡°.


    Josie halted her steps nervously. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Turn around.¡±


    Her face turned ashen pale, and a wave of anxiety washed over her. Before long, she summoned up a


    forceful smile and turned around. ¡°Hello.¡±


    Mrs. Ardon was young. She must¡¯ve only been a few years older than Leo Ardon, but she was his


    stepmother.


    Mrs. Ardon crossed her hands in front of her chest and sized her up. ¡°Why do you look so familiar?¡±


    Thedy behind her looked at her from head to toe before she gasped in shock, ¡°Isn¡¯t this the girl who


    made a scene here a few days ago?¡±


    How did she recognize her? Josie felt the edges of her face tense up. ¡°You have a good memory. It¡¯s


    me.¡±

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111


    Chapter 111 Finding Dexter


    ¡°Why are you here? This washroom is only open to VIPs,¡± Mrs. Ardon asked in a condescending tone.


    She had a haughty demeanor, but her eyes were sharp and watchful.


    ¡°¡­It¡¯s because I¡¯m also a VIP member here,¡± Josie cleared her throat and answered without showing a


    hint


    of weakness.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You too?¡± Their faces twisted in disgust as they looked at each other in disbelief. ¡°Show me your


    card.¡±.


    Their gazes were pressuring and unyielding. Josie knew she was outnumbered, so she had no choice


    but to take the card out of her bag.


    Mrs. Ardon snatched the card away from her hands andpared it to the one she had before she


    concluded. ¡°It¡¯s not fake.¡±


    ¡°Did you get it yourself?¡±


    This question triggered a woman¡¯s dignity, so Josie answered with conviction, ¡°Of course not. It¡¯s my


    husband who got it for me.¡±


    Don¡¯t tell me she¡¯s going to ask who¡¯s the husband?


    ¡°Who¡¯s your husband?¡±


    Josie was racking her head to figure out how to answer this question without raising suspicions. After a


    short silence, she said, ¡°I¡¯m sure you know we can¡¯t carelessly reveal our spouse¡¯s identity in this


    industry. I hope you understand I can¡¯t answer your question.¡±


    They were wary of her but epted her exnation as that was true.


    ¡°Mrs. Ardon, she must be a mistress of a top executive,¡±


    Mrs. Ardon tidied her hair and found no reason to be suspicious of her anymore. ¡°I understand. You


    can


    leave now.¡±


    Josie left in haste without looking back. She was afraid of being pried on any further.


    They must¡¯ve been mistresses, seeing as they epted such a vague exnation.


    On her way back to Mason Garden, Mrs. Ardon¡¯s words lingered in her mind.


    Landon was thepany Dexter nned to acquire. Was the evidence she mentioned rted to this?


    The sun was down. Josie quickly walked into Mason Garden and didn¡¯t notice any cars parked inside.


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t Mr. Russell returned home?¡±


    The maid noticed she was feeling anxious and immediately exined, ¡°Mr. Russell called. He said he


    had a meeting tonight and wouldn¡¯te home.¡±


    ¡°Did he say where the meeting was held?¡±


    ¡°No, he didn¡¯t.¡±


    Josie inhaled deeply and anxiously circled the house. She hesitated for a while before making a call,


    but no one answered. She tried dialing the number again, but the phone immediately went to voicemail.


    Is he busy now? Josie felt something wasn¡¯t right and left the house with her handbag


    ¡°Sir, please take me to Heaven on Earth.¡±


    Based on his past record, he would never conduct urgent business meetings in his personal space.


    Hence, there was only one other ce Heaven on Earth.


    ¨C


    The sky was painted with an orange hue as the sun disappeared below the horizon. The nightclub was


    buzzing as people streamed in.


    Josie was stopped at the door again. They asked her who she was looking for.


    Josie stood frozen at the doorway. She couldn¡¯t say she was there to find Mr. Lane anymore. Tim here


    for Mr. Barrett! The manager here. She was quick on her feet, and she answered confidently.


    The attendant maintained professionalism by asking for more details. ¡°Do you have a reservation?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s urgent. You¡¯ll be ountable for the consequences if you don¡¯t let me in immediately.¡± Josie


    mustered up her courage and demanded with a firm voice.


    The attendant was feeling hesitant, and exchanged nces with his colleague.


    Soon after, one of the attendants walked into the nightclub and whispered to someone within the


    crowd.


    Sheter saw Calvin¡¯s eyes scanning the entrance. She waved her hands at him enthusiastically. It¡¯s


    me!


    His lips curled into a wide smile when he saw her. He quickly apologized to the executive he was


    talking to and strode out to the entrance. ¡°Ms. Warren, why are you here?¡±


    Josie looked behind him and asked, ¡°Is Dexter here?¡±


    Calvin hinted at her to join him inside. As the music and chatter in the nightclub were deafening, they


    found a quiet corner to continue their conversation.


    ¡°Why do you want to find Dex?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°You haven¡¯t answered me.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s smile grew deeper as he observed her suspiciously. ¡°Even if he¡¯s here, I can¡¯t let you enter as


    you wish.¡±

 Chapter 112

    Chapter 112


    Chapter 112 Aren''t You Married to Him?


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. She knew that Dexter wasn¡¯t there.


    She sighed and announced, ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    Calvin pulled her back by her back cor, asking, ¡°Ms. Warren, don¡¯t you know Dex¡¯s schedule?¡±


    ¡°How would I know?¡± Josic answered. She was already feeling frustrated she couldn¡¯t find Dexter, but


    he had to question her about it.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you married to him?¡± Calvin asked indifferently.


    Josie looked unbothered by his question. But all of a sudden, her eyes widened in shock, ¡°Dexter told


    you?¡±


    ¡°No, but your reaction tells me it¡¯s true.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s lips curled into a mysterious smile, secretly content with his discovery.


    Josie took a deep breath and lightly punched his chest in frustration. ¡°You tricked me!¡±


    How could he act like this? Not only is he unserious all the time, but he¡¯s also even got such petty tricks


    up his sleeves.


    He grinned at her reaction and moved his hands behind him. ¡°I know everything that happens in


    Wavery. The woman who could make Dex lose his cool and risk his partnership must be someone very


    special to him. How can I not be attentive to my friend¡¯s rtionship?¡±


    Josie felt like a helpless fish at the mercy of the man slicing and dicing her life.


    ¡°What rtionship is there¡­¡± She spoke under her breath, still feeling exasperated by Calvin¡¯s


    approach. ¡°Is that not true?¡± Calvin moved closer. ¡°So, why are you so concerned about Dex¡¯s safety?¡±


    Josie froze at the spot. She wanted to refute it, but the only words that left her mouth were, ¡°That¡¯s not


    the truth! I have no time to cater to your nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Follow me,¡± Calvin turned around.


    They went into a private elevator and stopped on the third floor. Calvin brought her into a quiet private


    room.


    When he saw her distressed state, Calvin gently reassured her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The same thing wouldn¡¯t


    happen twice, Stay here quietly and wait for someone to fetch you home.¡±


    Without waiting for an answer, he closed the door and left.


    She wanted to leave, but the memory of the cruel incident here rooted her to the spot. She shook the


    thought away and decided to stay, knowing it would be easy to get into an ident in this dangerous


    ce.


    Josie sat on the sofa, pondering her unpredictable actions. She was determined to enter this ce, but


    now she wasn¡¯t sure why.


    Dexter¡¯s meeting wasn¡¯t held in Heaven on Earth but in the vi of one of Landon¡¯s executives, Mr.


    York.


    Ivy held onto his coat as she circled around the living room. Dexter had been inside for two hours.


    Mrs. York poured a cup of tea for her. ¡°Ms. Miller, don¡¯t worry. It can take a long time when they are


    discussing aplicated matter.¡±


    Ivy looked down; her gaze rested on Mrs. York¡¯s wrist. She wore Cartier¡¯s new bangle, which sparkled


    and gleamed in the light.


    ¡°Mr. York treats you really well¡±


    Mrs. York raised her eyebrows and put on a warm smile. Is that so? Is it really obvious?¡±


    Ivy chuckled softly and replied, ¡°Most men leave their wives once they¡¯re at the peak of their sess.


    But Mr. York is still loyal. You must be someone he adores very much.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Miller must be joking. He only did something any man should do. There¡¯s no need to praise him


    for such trivial matters. Mrs. York spoke in a calm andposed voice, her words a testament to her


    elegance. She looked at the study¡¯s door and said. ¡°Mr. Russell is also a good man. Does he have a


    ¡®girlfriend?¡±


    Ivy¡¯s eyes jurned gloomy. ¡°That is Mr. Russell¡¯s personal matter. I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    Mr. York was sharp and went straight to the point. ¡°You seem like a kind and gentle woman that any


    man would adore. Also, I can see the love and respect in your eyes when you look at him.¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But Derter couldn¡¯t notice it.

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113


    Chapter 113 Get Down the Car


    Ivy didn¡¯t refute her observations. Instead, she forcefullyughed and said, ¡°It all depends on Mr.


    Russell


    Mrs. York wanted to continue speaking to her, but the study¡¯s door opened, and Dexter walked out in a


    confident gait. He looked alluring as his shirt was slightly unbuttoned.


    Ivy immediately stood up and passed him his coat. ¡°Mr. Russell.


    Dexter put on his coat and told Mrs. York, ¡°Mr. York¡¯s tea is cooled down. Please make him a fresh cup.


    I¡¯lle another day.¡±


    Mrs. York smiled politely as she saw her guests off. Once they were gone, her smile faded, and her


    face took on a look of determination as she hurried into the study. ¡°Harvey!¡±


    It was getting colder as the night fell. The cold wind stung their faces as they walked outside.


    Ivy followed Dexter into the car. ¡°Mr. Russell, did Harvey agree?¡±


    ¡°He has to agree even if he doesn¡¯t want to.¡± Dexter tapped his fingers on the handle. ¡°Ten years ago,


    he trampled on the lives of many to get where he is today. Now, he has his eyes on Russell Group¡¯s


    profit. He¡¯s not qualified to go against me.¡±


    Harvey was exhausted after the discussion. He looked at Dexter as if looking into the devil¡¯s eyes,


    fearful of what he might do,


    ¡°That¡¯s great! As long as Harvey York sells us his shares, we¡¯ll have a greater chance of defeating


    Martin Lane and Arnold Carter.¡±


    ¡°Arnold wouldn¡¯t just sit around and wait. He must be convincing the other shareholders.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw Calvin¡¯s name disyed on the screen.


    There were already a few missed calls from Calvin.


    He looked towards Ivy, who had her head down. She felt apologetic as she exined, ¡°It¡¯s your


    personal call; I did not dare to pick it up.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Dexter held his phone by his car.


    He spoke into the phone for half a minute, his face growing grimmer with each passing second. ¡°Stop


    the


    car!¡±


    The driver immediately stopped the car, and Ivy¡¯s body leaned forward and knocked her head on the


    back


    of the seat.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    ¡°Get down the car, Dexter stated calmly as he kept his phone.


    Ivy was taken aback by his reaction. Her words were on the tip of her tongue, but she hesitated. Soon


    after, she opened the car door and went out.


    The car drove away, leaving Ivy alone in the dark. Her lone solitary figure walked miserably along the


    road; her tears welled up in her eyes as she struggled to keep them in.


    His Porsche car drove through the darkness like a knife.


    Calvin was waiting at the entrance when he saw Dexter leave the car, his face twisted with anger. He


    looked at his watch and said, ¡°You only took ten minutes to get here. Is that necessary? She wouldn¡¯t


    lose a finger while she¡¯s here.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes shed with fury as he red at Calvin. ¡°Can¡¯t you send her home?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°How would I know where she stays?¡± Despite knowing the truth, Calvin jokingly asked, ¡°Should I send


    her back to Mason Garden then?¡±


    ¡°Nonsense.¡± Dexter wasn¡¯t in the mood to argue with him. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°Third floor.¡±


    Josie was bored, so she yed a few rounds of her mobile game before her phone died. She theny


    on the sofa to sleep.


    ¡®Dexter opened the private room and saw the scene unfold before his eyes.


    Her sleeping posture was prim and proper. She even covered her legs with a coat. Only half of her face


    was showing, and her eyelids were trembling.


    His anger melted away at the sight of her delicate features.


    Josie was woken up by the heat as her surroundings became warmer. She slowly opened her eyes and


    saw


    a man sitting down beside her legs.


    Dexter was smoking. He took a puff of his cigarette, and the smoke obscured his face. His expression


    was unreadable, and he didn¡¯t say a word.


    Josie rubbed her eyes, her mind still in a daze. Then, her eyes widened in surprise as she recognized


    the man before her.


    ¡°Dexter, you¡¯re here?¡± she sat up quickly, wincing as she felt the pain in her neck.

 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114


    Chapter 114 I Was Afraid You Would Be in Danger


    He turned his head to look at her. The ember of the cigarette glowed softly, flickering in the dark room.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t you wait at home for me toe back?¡± He expressed his frustrations through his tone of


    voice.


    Josie pondered her response, knowing he likely already knew most of what had happened earlier. She


    kept her head down and replied. ¡°I know you¡¯ve been stressedtely about acquiring Landon, so I


    came out in a hurry to tell you something important about the project.¡±


    Josie suspected her idental eavesdropping from earlier must be rted to this project, so she tried


    her best to get to him as soon as possible.


    Dexter snuffed his cigarette in the ashtray and blew the final puff of smoke in her face. She felt


    suffocated by the smoke and wanted to move away, but he held onto her neck and said under his


    breath, ¡°What do you know?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face turned red. He held her so close that she could see the small mole he bore under his eyes.


    She held onto her breath, exined everything she knew, and said timidly. ¡°Did I cause more trouble


    for you?¡±


    That was not true. She¡¯s been here all night without doing anything.


    Dexter tightened his grip, and his eyes were awash with conflicting emotions. ¡°You must think you¡¯re


    very clever.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know he was already aware of Mrs. Ardon¡¯s ns and the trouble she would face if her


    identity were revealed. But worst of all, she didn¡¯t realize how dangerous it would be for her if she got


    caught by the Ardon Family.


    Dexter was worried about the former, butparatively, he was more concerned about how her


    negligence would affect thetter¡¯s oue.


    His heart was pounding at the thought of something terrible happening to Josie.


    Josie didn¡¯t try to escape from his grasp. Instead, she apologized. Im sorry; I¡¯ll be more careful next


    time.¡±


    Her tender gaze and actions were all locked into Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    He looked down and asked, ¡°Why did youe to find ine even though it¡¯s so risky?¡±


    Josie was at a loss for words. Her eyes were dull, and her shoulders slumped. ¡°I was afraid you would


    be in danger. Her voice was trembling.


    Dexter felt his heart skip a beat but tried to conceal his expression. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call me?¡±


    Josie felt dumbfounded when he made thisment. She even thought of taking out his phone from


    his pocket.


    ¡°I called you three times. You didn¡¯t answer and even ended the call immediately


    Her eyes watered, and her heart pounded as she exined.


    Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed as he didn¡¯t notice any missed calls from her when he checked his phone.


    He grabbed her hands, which were trembling. Then, holding her hands, he suddenly asked, ¡°Josic, are


    you flirting with me right now?¡±


    Josie was stunned. She pursed her lips and swore, ¡°No, not this time.¡±


    She sure is honest.


    Dexter grinned at her reaction and raised his eyebrows. He finally released his grip from her neck and


    cradled her head in his hands.


    The smell of the smoke was thick but wasn¡¯t unpleasant, Josie was so close to him that she could feel


    his breath on her skin and her heart pounding in her chest.


    It¡¯s too close. They were too close.


    *Dexter.


    ¡°Actually, you seeded in winning my heart. Twice. Dexter caressed her lips with hisrge hands. His


    voice was a raspy whisper, making her knees feel weak.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t move an inch as she probed, ¡°When?¡± ¨C


    ¡°First time was when you knelt beside Mr. Lane and looked at me with your pitiful eyes.¡±


    Dexter felt like he was losing his mind then. His rage boiled over as he red at the filthy man. He


    wanted to tear him limb from limb, to make him suffer for what he had done.


    Josie was startled at his confession. She had no intention of winning his heart, but he fell for her at her


    most devastating moment.


    ¡°What about the second time,¡± she asked carefully.


    ¡°Now.¡±

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115


    Chapter 116 You''re Over the Top


    Dexter didn¡¯t look away.


    Josie leaned in closer, and her breath was touching his bare skin. ¡°At least a little?¡±


    She tried to conceal her true feelings as hard as she could. Despite her heart beating out of her chest,


    she purposely acted as if she hadn¡¯t fallen for him.


    Dexter didn¡¯t move. Suddenly, the door opened. ¡°Dex¡±


    Calvin¡¯s words slowly faded when his eyes caught onto their physical state. Later, the sounds of his


    hasty footsteps traveled from the hallway. ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything


    Josie forced herself to keep herposure as she looked into Dexter¡¯s icy cold stare. She felt a shiver


    run down her spine and slowly pulled away from him to wear her shoes.


    Dexter walked out of the door. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Calvin¡¯s face was filled with a mischievous grin. ¡°I won¡¯t bother the both of you while you¡¯re having a


    good time. I¡¯ll get the problem solved by myself.¡±


    ¡°Tell me.¡± Dexter was unbothered by his teasing. He took a cigarette from the box and ced it


    between his lips.


    ¡°An executive associated with the Ardon Family is here tonight. He brought a mistress and two other


    ladies


    with him.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°Threedies. He must be in good shape.¡±


    Calvin had a wide grin stered on his face as he held onto the handrail. He saw Josie standing


    behind him with her arms crossed.


    The Ardon Family won¡¯t be able to escape the me this time. I sent the evidence to you. It¡¯ll be


    helpful.¡±


    Dexter took a puff of his cigarette. His mind was finally clear andposed. Thanks, I¡¯ll treat you to


    dinner next time.


    ¡°Sure. Are you bringing your wife?¡±


    Josie noticed Calvin staring at her. She politely smiled back at him and waved.


    Dexter turned his head around and nced at her. His words lingered at the tip of his tongue, but he


    swallowed back his words and warned Calvin. ¡°If you know, then keep it to yourself. I¡¯m only doing this


    for my grandpa.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re over the top if it¡¯s only for your grandpa. Calvin quickly changed the topic when his face turned


    dark. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My lips are sealed.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t say a word before snubbing the cigarette he had been smoking. He walked to Josie.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Josie immediately followed behind him.


    They didn¡¯t exchange a single word throughout their journey back to Mason Garden


    When they arrived, Josie deleted the voice recording of Mrs. Ardon. She was too hasty with her


    actions. Dexter knew the Ardon family like the back of his hand, It was true that she went overboard


    today and risked his ns.


    After two days, Josie¡¯s face was much better, and she returned to work at Russell Group.


    Once she entered the design department, she was met with the gazes of the people inside, making her


    hair stand in surprise. She asked Alice, ¡°Why is everyone acting this way?¡±


    Alice sized her up and joked, ¡°Ms. Warren, you took so many days off. Nobody from this department¡­


    no, actually, nobody from this whole office has ever taken such a long break. How did you do it?¡±


    Josie felt guilty. She rubbed her nose and said, ¡°It¡¯s a medical leave. Thepany isn¡¯t that strict.¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Did you have to take half a month off to operate on your appendicitis?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know once you try it out.¡± Josie quickly changed the topic. ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why everyone is


    staring at me this way.¡±


    Alice hugged the file and asked softly. ¡°Do you know about Sylmark?


    Josie contemted briefly before answering. ¡°Yes, the one in the south of the city, near the school


    district.¡±


    ¡°Russell Group acquired it. Alice was feeling thrilled,


    Josie was surprised at the revtion. ¡°I heard there were manypanies after Sylmark, but Russell


    Group won the bidding?¡±


    ¡°Yes. They don¡¯t have the resources we do. With our financial backing, acquiring thatnd will be a


    breeze.¡±

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116


    Chapter 116 You''re Over the Top


    Dexter didn¡¯t look away.


    Josie leaned in closer, and her breath was touching his bare skin. ¡°At least a little?¡±


    She tried to conceal her true feelings as hard as she could. Despite her heart beating out of her chest,


    she purposely acted as if she hadn¡¯t fallen for him.


    Dexter didn¡¯t move. Suddenly, the door opened. ¡°Dex¡±


    Calvin¡¯s words slowly faded when his eyes caught onto their physical state. Later, the sounds of his


    hasty footsteps traveled from the hallway. ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything


    Josie forced herself to keep herposure as she looked into Dexter¡¯s icy cold stare. She felt a shiver


    run down her spine and slowly pulled away from him to wear her shoes.


    Dexter walked out of the door. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Calvin¡¯s face was filled with a mischievous grin. ¡°I won¡¯t bother the both of you while you¡¯re having a


    good time. I¡¯ll get the problem solved by myself.¡±


    ¡°Tell me.¡± Dexter was unbothered by his teasing. He took a cigarette from the box and ced it


    between his lips.


    ¡°An executive associated with the Ardon Family is here tonight. He brought a mistress and two other


    ladies


    with him.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°Threedies. He must be in good shape.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Calvin had a wide grin stered on his face as he held onto the handrail. He saw Josie standing


    behind him with her arms crossed.


    The Ardon Family won¡¯t be able to escape the me this time. I sent the evidence to you. It¡¯ll be


    helpful.¡±


    Dexter took a puff of his cigarette. His mind was finally clear andposed. Thanks, I¡¯ll treat you to


    dinner next time.


    ¡°Sure. Are you bringing your wife?¡±


    Josie noticed Calvin staring at her. She politely smiled back at him and waved.


    Dexter turned his head around and nced at her. His words lingered at the tip of his tongue, but he


    swallowed back his words and warned Calvin. ¡°If you know, then keep it to yourself. I¡¯m only doing this


    for my grandpa.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re over the top if it¡¯s only for your grandpa. Calvin quickly changed the topic when his face turned


    dark. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My lips are sealed.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t say a word before snubbing the cigarette he had been smoking. He walked to Josie.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Josie immediately followed behind him.


    They didn¡¯t exchange a single word throughout their journey back to Mason Garden


    When they arrived, Josie deleted the voice recording of Mrs. Ardon. She was too hasty with her


    actions. Dexter knew the Ardon family like the back of his hand, It was true that she went overboard


    today and risked his ns.


    After two days, Josie¡¯s face was much better, and she returned to work at Russell Group.


    Once she entered the design department, she was met with the gazes of the people inside, making her


    hair stand in surprise. She asked Alice, ¡°Why is everyone acting this way?¡±


    Alice sized her up and joked, ¡°Ms. Warren, you took so many days off. Nobody from this department¡­


    no, actually, nobody from this whole office has ever taken such a long break. How did you do it?¡±


    Josie felt guilty. She rubbed her nose and said, ¡°It¡¯s a medical leave. Thepany isn¡¯t that strict.¡±


    ¡°Did you have to take half a month off to operate on your appendicitis?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know once you try it out.¡± Josie quickly changed the topic. ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why everyone is


    staring at me this way.¡±


    Alice hugged the file and asked softly. ¡°Do you know about Sylmark?


    Josie contemted briefly before answering. ¡°Yes, the one in the south of the city, near the school


    district.¡±


    ¡°Russell Group acquired it. Alice was feeling thrilled,


    Josie was surprised at the revtion. ¡°I heard there were manypanies after Sylmark, but Russell


    Group won the bidding?¡±


    ¡°Yes. They don¡¯t have the resources we do. With our financial backing, acquiring thatnd will be a


    breeze.¡±

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117


    Chapter 117 She''s the Main Designer


    Everything can be solved with enough money. Josie chuckled at that thought.


    ¡°But you haven¡¯t told me what this has to do with me?¡±


    ¡°With Sylmark in our hands, our design department will run the project now. Everyone is wondering


    whether the project will be passed to you or ire.¡± Alice assumed, ¡°You came back at such a critical


    time, so they must think you¡¯re trying to fight against ire,¡±


    After all, if she wasn¡¯t back, it would naturally be assigned to ire.


    But Josie wasn¡¯t feeling optimistic about receiving the project. ¡°ire has participated in many big¨C


    scale projects and is much more experienced. With the number of awards she won, I believe the


    executives would be inclined to have her in charge. There¡¯s no need to give me any false hope.


    ¡°Why do you say such a thing? You have never gotten any awards because you¡¯ve never joined any


    competition. If you went, ire wouldn¡¯t be acting so arrogant. Also, you don¡¯t have enough experience


    because Mr. Davidson and Samantha purposely passed the projects to other people. Based on your


    skills, 1 believe everyone in the office envies you.¡± Alice¡¯s words tumbled out in a single breath, her


    voice rising in pitch as she felt the rage building in her chest.


    Josie held onto her chin as she listened to herpliments. Her lips slowly curled up. She was telling


    the


    Truth.


    ¡°You know me well, but my manager doesn¡¯t.¡±


    Alice pondered a while and said, ¡°That¡¯s not totally true. Doesn¡¯t Mr. Russell pay a lot of attention to


    you? He has a good eye for talent. I believe he wouldn¡¯t choose recklessly.¡±


    Josie felt her hands trembling. How did Alice know?


    ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Maybe you caught his attention due to the incident rting to Samantha. He asked me about


    your whereabouts when he passed by thest time.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t aware of this. ¡°When did that happen?¡±


    Alice tried to recall ¡°Half a month ago? It was the day before you took your leave.¡±


    Based on the timeline, it was the day ire took credit for her work, and she left Russell Group feeling


    angered. It was also the day she went to find Justin.


    Josie fell silent. She suddenly thought of the kiss they had sharedst night, and her heart started


    racing.


    ire entered the office, her eyes narrowing as she caught sight of Josie.


    Josie met her surly re with a cool stare of her own.


    ¡°The designer for the Sylmark project has been decided,¡± ire announced calmly.


    Everyone¡¯s chatter started to fill the room. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Wilcher, who did they decide on?¡±


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    The room was silent for a moment.


    ¡°The executives have asked Josie and me to form a team for the project,¡± ire clenched her teeth


    and forced the words out. Josie will be the main designer: I¡¯ll assist.¡±


    Once she announced the result, everyone gasped in shock and looked at Josie in disbelief.


    Josie¡¯s forehead wrinkled in surprise, thinking she had misheard her.


    ire marched over to her and tossed the file on her desk. ¡°Read through everything in a day. I don¡¯t


    have


    time to waste.


    Her discontent and rage were like a raging river, threatening to sweep away anyone who That was the


    moment when Josie realized it was real.


    got in her way.


    She scanned the document quickly, her eyes darting across the page. It was thick and had all the


    ¡®information rted to Sylmark. She knew reading it all would take her a while.


    ¡°Which executive made this decision?¡±


    ireughed derisively. ¡°You could go find out for yourself. I¡¯m sure you got this project through shady


    dealings. You can go to Sylmark on your own in the afternoon for the site research.¡±


    She stormed out of the office and mmed the door shut behind her.


    Josie didn¡¯t bother to argue with her. Instead, she focused on the documents in front of her. After a


    while. she took out her phone and started to type a message to Dexter.


    She had typed out a few words but deleted them and started again.


    After typing another sentence, she deleted them again.


    She had been wanting to text him all morning, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to do it.

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118


    Chapter 118 On¨CSite Survey


    ire wasn¡¯t lying when she said she wouldn¡¯t participate in the on¨Csite survey.


    Josie knocked on her office twice but didn¡¯t get any response.


    ¡°Sylmark is quite far away from here. Why don¡¯t I tag along?¡± Alice whispered.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You have work to do. I¡¯ll handle it on my own.¡±


    Josie put the files and a sketchbook in her bag and left Russell Group¡¯s office immediately.


    North of Wavery was where the capitalists and wealthy families resided, while the south was home to


    ordinary residents. It had a lively atmosphere, with goods sold at reasonable prices.


    The Warren Family also lived here. Josie had spent thirteen years in this part of the city.


    She took a deep breath of the air in the familiar city. Suddenly, she recalled that Jenny hadn¡¯t bothered


    hertely, even after she boldly announced that she would find Dexter alone. Did she actually feel


    threatened. by her words?


    many people lived here, there were houses everywhere. Sylmark was a thrivingmunity with a


    strategic location. The town was home to several elementary, middle, and high schools. Once Russell.


    Group¡¯s housing estate was up for sale, it would surely be sold out quickly.


    The amount of money Dexter used to bid for this property was worth every penny.


    The sun beat down on the workers working on the demolished building. Josie walked around the


    building. scanning its overall structure. She held a sketchbook to sketch the design of the building.


    Sheter rested under arge tree, and the warm glow of the afternoon¡¯s sun shone on her face. There


    was a grandmother and her granddaughter at a yground nearby. The little girl suddenly pointed


    toward her and repeated, ¡°She¡¯s drawing!¡±


    Josie felt her heart melt at the little girl¡¯s actions. She pulled a wrapped candy from her bag and offered


    it to the little girl with a warm smile. ¡°I have a sweet for you.¡±


    The grandmother encouraged her to receive the candy from Josie. ¡°Remember to thank the kinddy.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Her voice was tender and adorable, filling Josie¡¯s heart with warmth.


    ¡°Miss, what are you drawing? Why are there so many lines?¡±


    Im drawing for fun. Just practicing.¡± Josie replied.


    The grandmother looked quite confused. ¡°My eldest granddaughter also learns drawing. She¡¯s very


    talented.


    ¡°Is she in university now?¡±


    ¡°She just got into university this year after she moved from the rural area to the city. Her parents


    contemted for a long time whether to buy a ce for her to stay in the school district. After struggling


    to cover the cost, it turned out that they had paid for an unfinished apartment. She had lived there for


    three years despite the undesirable condition.¡±


    The grandmother sighed before continuing. ¡°Now, even this unfinished building is getting demolished.¡±


    Josie looked around her and saw many unfinished buildings. Every one of them reflected the struggles


    of the households.


    It should be a joyful experience for a child to live in the school district as there are excellent schools, a


    safe environment, and plenty of extracurricr activities, but¡­


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what would happen to this building, but I hope history won¡¯t repeat itself.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes were awash with conflicting emotions. ¡°It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Suddenly, she noticed the little girl walking towards the road. ¡°Madam! The little girl!¡±


    The grandmother quickly turned around and shouted, ¡°Oh no! Darling!¡±


    But the little girl had already stepped onto the road. She was in a blind spot, and a car was


    approaching her at a high speed.


    Josie dropped her sketchbook and ran toward the girl. She scooped her up and hugged her tightly,


    relief flooding through her.


    The car behind her screeched to a halt. The driver was sweating profusely as he yelled at them. ¡°Why


    did you let her run away by herself? How irresponsible!¡±


    The little girl was crying in her arms. Josie couldn¡¯t care less about the scratch in her arms as she


    hugged the little girl tightly andforted her. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m here now,¡±


    She turned to the driver and apologized. Later, Josie carried the little girl to the sidewalk to let the car


    pass.


    The car started to move slowly, Just as it was about to pass by her, the car came to a stop.


    The windows of the back seat rolled down.

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119


    Chapter 119 An Encounter With Arnold Carter


    The man seemed to have just been woken up from his sleep. His shirt was slightly unbuttoned, and he


    had azy, rebellious look as if he didn¡¯t care about anything.


    He slowly opened his eyes and greeted her, ¡°Ms. Warren, I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here.¡±


    The driver¡¯s nerves were on edge. It was an unlucky day for him. He had almost gotten into an


    ident, and to make matters worse, the person he almost hit was someone his boss knew.


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe her eyes when she saw the figure sitting in the backseat. It was Arnold Carter.


    The grandmother rushed to her and thanked her for saving her grandchild. She kindly advised the


    grandmother to watch the little girl closely before she stepped closer to the car.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, why are you here?¡±


    Arnold opened the door and suggested, ¡°Should we have a talk?¡±


    The corners of her face drew into a tight pinch as Josie quickly muttered that she had other


    appointments.


    Her heart hammered in her chest, and she had a strong urge to run away. She wasn¡¯t sure why, but


    she had always felt that Arnold had a dangerous air about him.


    Moreover, he¡¯s Dexter¡¯s opponent!


    After she quickly mulled over her thoughts, she decided toply with his request.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, do you have a meeting here?¡± Josie started to question him as soon as she got in his car.


    Arnold winded up the windows. His hands were holding a cup filled with wine. ¡°It¡¯s a personal matter. I


    came here to meet someone I knew.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t pry on the subject.


    He left the cup in front of Josie, ¡°I remember you¡¯re good at drinking.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t move an inch. ¡°Mr. Carter, it¡¯s still daytime, and I¡¯m only here with you by coincidence. Can


    I reject this offer?¡±


    Arnold smiled at her. ¡°You could¡¯ve reject the two sses of alcohol thest time, but you still drank it.¡±


    ¡°That was because it was rted to my work. This has nothing to do with work.¡±


    ¡°You sure know how to separate work and personal matters.¡± Arnold didn¡¯t force her to drink. Instead,


    he raised a suspicion calmly. ¡°But both work and personal matters are for Dexter, right?¡±


    Since he mentioned Dexter, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to answer him. Her sketchbook was sticking out


    of her bag and was noticed by Arnold. He pulled it out and started to flip through the pages.


    She wanted to stop him but to no avail.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnoldmented as he flipped through the pages, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen any woman beside him


    throughout these years. You¡¯re the first one.¡±


    Josie acted as if she didn¡¯t understand his remark. ¡°Isn¡¯t Ms. Miller always beside him?¡±


    ¡°She has never made Dexter risk a partnership for her, Arnold paused and looked at her. ¡°But you


    have¡±


    Josie stiffened in position, and her toes curled in her shoe. ¡°Dexter cares for his employees.¡±


    Arnold sneered at herment. He lifted her sketchbook and said, ¡°Did you know that Russell Group


    was never this eager to acquire thend in Sylmark? It¡¯s more likely for the Carter Group and other


    corporations to participate in this project, as it would help them to boost their poprity. However, the


    Russell Group would not benefit as much from this project, as they are already well¨Cknown to the


    public.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t understand what he was trying to convey. All she knew was that Russell had won


    another project Arnold had wanted. ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t understand why Dexter would join the bidding before. But after seeing you here, I finally


    understand everything.¡±


    Arnold tilted his head backward and looked her up and down, making her feel scared.


    Josie straightened her back. She was intelligent, so she caught on immediately. After pausing for a


    moment, she started to chuckle. ¡°Mr. Carter, I never knew I was so important. Dexter is nice, but he


    wouldn¡¯t change thepany¡¯s operations for a mere employee.¡±


    ¡°A mere employee?¡±


    Josie was startled by his sudden remark and felt uneasy with his prying stare.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120


    Chapter 120 Fifty Percent of Love


    The car speeded along the highway, and they were back in the northern part of the city.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, do you remember how I referred to you as Natasha from War and Peace?¡± Arnold didn¡¯t


    hold back this time. ¡°Would you like to help me with something? I¡¯ll be willing to pay you more than


    Dexter.¡±


    Josie continued to chuckle. ¡°Mr. Carter, unfortunately, I don¡¯t have the ability and strength to keep up


    two sries.¡±


    If she betrayed Dexter, he would not let her live.


    with


    ¡°Don¡¯t be in a rush to reject my offer. You might think he¡¯s charming now, but you would soon notice


    that he¡¯s a cold¨Cblooded and arrogant person who wouldn¡¯t let anyone into his heart.¡±


    Arnold spoke rapidly, but his actions were gentle as he slowly ced the sketchbook inside her bag.


    ¡°It seems like Mr. Carter understands Mr. Russell quite well?¡±


    ¡°After years ofpeting with each other, that¡¯s a must.¡±


    ¡°If I¡¯m really important to Mr. Russell, as you mention, then why would he be attracted to someone like


    me? I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve investigated my background. I came from a normal family background with an


    average¨Clooking face. Not to mention I have nothing to offer. So what qualifies me to be cared for by


    someone like Mr. Russell?¡± Josie only spoke the truth.


    ¡°It¡¯s unnecessary for you to have all the perfect conditions to win a man¡¯s heart, especially Dexter¡¯s¡±


    Arnold leaned nearer to Josie flirtatiously. ¡°Ms. Warren, you don¡¯t have to put yourself down.¡±


    Josie felt her whole body tense up, but she kept herposure and asked, ¡°If you know him this well.


    could you tell me if he had any other women before?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he did,¡± Arnold swiftly replied.


    Josie raised her eyebrows. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean a chaperone.¡±


    He repeated his answer, this time with a resolute voice, ¡°Yes, he did.


    Dexter had a partner before. After all, he¡¯s such a sessful man. There¡¯s no reason for him to stay


    single all these


    years.


    Josie¡¯s smile faded all of a sudden. ¡°If he had someone before, then I wouldn¡¯t be able to seed. A


    cold- blooded man wouldn¡¯t value romantic rtionships.¡±


    ¡°My requirements are low.¡± Arnold leaned into her ears and said, ¡°All I need is fifty percent. My n will


    seed if Dexter is at least fifty percent into you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s breath caught in her throat, and she froze.


    The car finally came to a stop.


    Arnold helped her open her door and smiled alluringly. ¡°I¡¯m not sure where you stay, so I can only drop


    you off at Russell Group.¡±


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    Josie packed her stuff. Thank you for your concern.¡±


    ¡°Tll wait for your response to drinks someday.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s final remark sent a shiver down her spine.


    The sun was already down, and most employees had already left. When the security guard saw Josie,


    he asked enthusiastically, ¡°It¡¯ste now. You still have work to do?¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips pressed into a tight¨Clipped smile, and she replied, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s hard to make a living.¡±


    She stood in the elevator for a long time. Her finger hovered along the button to the highest floor as she


    hesitated.


    Arnold¡¯s words still lingered in her mind and made her feel anxious, so she decided to take the risk.


    Luckily, there wasn¡¯t anyone there. Only the lights in Dexter¡¯s office were on.


    She went inside the office. Themp on the wall cast a warm and soft glow within his office. Dexter


    stood confidently in front of the windows. He had a lighted cigarette between his fingers, lost in his


    thoughts at the darkening scenery.


    Dexter was a confident and courageous man, but he was only perceived as mysterious and wild to the


    outside world, like a strong force to be reckoned with whenever he set his eyes on his goals.


    However, his overbearing aura was gone as she gazed upon his lone figure. It was as if he had only


    allowed himself to feel lonely when no one was around.


    Josie¡¯s heart felt like it was being squeezed.

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121


    Chapter 121 A Trap


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Dexter asked in his deep and gravelly voice.


    Josie appeared from the dark and slowly walked into his office¡¯s soft glow of light. ¡°Are you always this


    alert, Mr. Russell¡±


    Her canvas bag was slung over her shoulders, and her work outfit was simple. Nheless, the office


    wasrge and luxurious, with a high ceiling and an open view of the city. Josie felt like a small fish in a


    big pond.


    Once he saw her, the scowl on his face faded. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you return to Mason Garden?*


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Josie put her bag down and went closer to him. Her finger rested on his furrowed brows as she said, ¡°I


    was on my way back, but I decided to wait for Mr. Russell as I saw the lights at the top floor were still


    on.¡±


    Dexter grabbed onto her hands without losing the frown on his face. ¡°I see you¡¯re no longer afraid of


    getting caught.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Isn¡¯t it thrilling to have an office romance?¡±


    She leaned in closer to him, leaving almost no gap between them. Dexter narrowed his eyes when he


    sensed a familiar smell from her body..


    ¡°You¡¯re still a little blunt. You love to call me Mr. Russell whenever you seduce me.¡± Dexter pushed her


    away softly with a look of disdain masking his face. ¡°A man¡¯s desire cannot be easily awakened with


    stiff flirtation.¡±


    Josie had no intention of seducing him. Instead, she tilted her head slightly and asked, ¡°I feel this is


    right up Mr. Russell¡¯s alley. Or else, why would you let me handle the Sylmark project?¡±


    She had her cards out on the table, but Dexter seemed uninterested. He stared at the antique clock in


    his ¡± office. It was five¨Chundred¨Cyear¨Cold antique worth hundreds of thousands. Its design was


    marvelous.


    ¡°There¡¯s no one better fit for this position than you. You shouldn¡¯t act naive when you¡¯ve got what you


    wanted easily.¡±


    Josie fell silent. This must be why he doesn¡¯t have any friends. Who would want to be close to him


    when he has such a wicked mouth?


    ¡°Is it truly because I¡¯m the best fit?¡± Josie stood behind him and looked at him in confusion. ¡°It¡¯s


    reasonable for me to save Justin. No one would doubt my intentions. But Mr. Russell, you must¡¯ve set


    up a chess game and made us your pawns you could control anytime. Am I right?¡±


    Dexter finally turned around and calmly stared at her. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    Josie smirked at his feigned indifference. ¡°It¡¯s rare Mr. Russell can¡¯t understand such simple words.¡±


    She was fully alert, like a porcupine ready to defend herself.


    ¡°The Carter Group and the Russell Group have been enemies for a long time, and you¡¯re clearly not on


    good terms with Arnold Carter. He racked his brain to find your weakness, so he set up a trap for you in


    Wavery, even though he was in Rivodia. He used me to test you, and you fell into his trap. My face was


    thus ruined by his scheme.¡±


    Josie continued in aposed manner. ¡°So you assigned me the Sylmark project as a way to


    compensate me. I can¡¯t deny that Mr. Russell still has some humanity.¡±


    Dexter finally understood what she meant. He finished his cigarette and threw it into the bin.


    ¡°A businessman wouldn¡¯t make decisions that do not profit them. So what did I gain from this?¡±


    ¡°You took advantage of the opportunity to get closer to Martin Lane and gain more insight about


    Landon. This would make it easier for you to defeat Arnold Carter.¡±


    Dexter lowered his head and grinned. ¡°You met Arnold Carter.¡±


    He made a statement without needing an answer from her.


    Josie felt a surge of anxiety creeping within. This has been happening for a long time. I guessed it


    myself.¡±


    ¡®Dexter immediately exposed her lie. ¡°I could smell La Romance Conti from your body. Only Arnold


    Carter owns this wine within Wavery.¡±


    Josie never would¡¯ve imagined she would be exposed by the red wine she didn¡¯t even drink. How is he


    so

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122


    Chapter 122 The Excitement in the Elevator


    Dexter slowly walked to her and grabbed her face in his hands. ¡°Let me guess. It wasn¡¯t a brief


    encounter. I suppose!¡±


    Josie could no longer deceive him as he had her in his grasp. ¡°I saw him in Sylmark while I was


    surveying the grounds on¨Csite. It was a coincidence. I had no choice¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were as sharp as an eagle. Nothing could go unnoticed under his watch.


    ¡°Sylmark.¡± Dexter clenched his jaws as he repeated. Suddenly, he connected the dots. ¡°The south of


    the city. It must be today.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face was flushed. His eyes sparkled, and he didn¡¯t look furious. Dexter released his hands and


    said, ¡°If you know this is a trap, then do you know what Arnold gains from this?¡±


    After he released her, she gasped for air and tried to speak. ¡°Him? I don¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°After Arnold exposed my weakness and Alex Lee was injured, every executive in Landon looked at us


    with suspicion and distrust. The ones who were initially on our side also ended up supporting the Carter


    Group. 1 put in a lot of effort to win the favor of two of the executives. Josie, how would you pay me


    back for this?


    Josie carefully mulled over his exnation. If he was telling the truth, it would be a significant loss for


    him. ¡°I know you¡¯ve found the key person needed to take over Landon. If he¡¯s defeated, the other


    executives would have no say over the acquisition.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy to defeat him. Besides, I never had to go through such a difficult pathway initially


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were serious and unwavering. The redness in her face has slowly faded away.


    Josie furrowed her brows without saying anything. After a moment, she looked up at him with a wide


    grin. ¡°Mr. Russell, you mentioned that Arnold had found your weakness. Does that mean your


    weakness is me?¡±


    Dexter shifted his gaze, baffled by herment. He quickly took his coat from his seat and left his


    office. Josie quickly took her bag and followed behind. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you answering me? Am I your


    weakness?¡± Dexter wouldn¡¯t turn around to look at her. ¡°It¡¯s the identity of my wife. Not you.¡±


    ¡°Am I not your wife?¡±


    Josie suddenly wrapped her hands around his arms. He stayed still and didn¡¯t push her away as he


    pressed the button for the lift.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you embarrassed?¡±


    Josie¡¯s mischievous smile was spread across her face. ¡°Did you assign me the Sylmark project


    because you


    like me?*


    Dexter walked into the elevator without answering her.


    Once the doors closed, she leaned closer to him. ¡°Are you ignoring me?¡±


    The elevator wasrge and mirrored, reflecting their every move Josie¡¯s arms wrapped around his


    waist, slowly trailing her fingers along his abs. ¡°Dexter, this is your personal elevator. Would anyone


    monitor us


    from the CCTV? If we did something here, no one would notice, right?¡±


    He has abs even with the heavy workload? He must be really disciplined.


    Dexter tilted his head, and their faces were almost touching. At the slightest movement, their lips would


    touch.


    His eyes were cold and distant. He grunted coldly, thinking of what happened thest time, ¡°Don¡¯t move


    so close to me.¡±¡°¡±


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    ¡°Don¡¯t you like the thrill?¡± Josie¡¯s hands continued trailing along his abs. He felt a shiver down his spine


    when she reached his lower abdomen and grabbed her hands. ¡°Stop moving


    Josie was lost in her thoughts, excited to mess around with Dexter.


    Their clothes were messy, and their reflections in the mirrored walls were anything but innocent. Dexter


    ¡®didn¡¯t respond to her tease, but his eyes looked captivating to her.

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123


    Chapter 123 Exceed Fifty Percent


    Josie was charmed by Dexter¡¯s dark, intense gaze. ¡°Dexter, she whispered.


    She felt herself drawn to him like a moth to a me.


    At this moment, the elevator door opened, and they reached the parking lot.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Dexter immediately kept hisposure and pulled away from her. ¡°That¡¯s enough¡±


    Josie lost her bnce and almost fell on the floor. She turned and looked at Dexter¡¯s back, his


    shoulders stiff and unyielding. She stomped her foot in anger, feeling betrayed and hurt.


    As a driver took them home, she didn¡¯t dare to act recklessly. Eventually, she fell asleep in the car.


    Josie slept soundly as the driver pulled up to Mason Garden. Dexter hesitated momentarily before


    sitting down again and whispering, ¡°Josie, we¡¯re here.¡±


    Josie slept soundly, her face peaceful and rxed. A single strand of hair had fallen across her check,


    and she didn¡¯t stir as it tickled her skin.


    Dexter felt frustrated but ended up carrying her out of the car.


    The maid opened the door. When she saw her in his arms, she lowered her voice and asked, ¡°Is Mrs.


    Russell asleep?¡±


    Dexter nodded slightly. Heter pushed the bedroom door open with his feet andid her on the bed.


    Dexter looked around the bedroom and saw that it was filled with all her belongings.


    He paused when he found a stack of sketchbooks on the bed frame. The first sketch he saw was a


    caricature of him with the words: The Devil.


    Dexter sneered softly as he rested his gaze on the woman on the bed.


    She was good at drawing but wasn¡¯t a professional.


    He continued to flip through the sketches. They were no longer caricatures. Instead, they were weird


    sketches of money, ice cream, an injured face, and a hand covered with blood.


    There was also a sketch of the picture of him with Leanne.


    It was a picture from the Russell Mansion.


    Dexter¡¯s fingers gripped tighter onto the piece of paper. He felt his mind racing as he looked at the


    person sleeping on the bed.


    After the door closed, Josie opened her eyes amidst the silence that filled the room.


    Josie inhaled the cool, musky scent of Dexter that still lingered in the room. She turned to look at her


    sketches, which were neatly stacked on the bed frame.


    She thought it was impossible when Arnold asked her to get fifty percent of Dexter¡¯s interest. But right


    now, she felt as if she could exceed fifty percent.


    Even though ire was supposed to be her assistant for Sylmark¡¯s project, she kept her hands off the


    project entirely, leaving Josie to rush over the designs by workingte into the night.


    ¡°Ms. Miller?¡± ire noticed Ivy waiting for the elevator when she was about to leave work.


    Ivy nodded at her. ¡°You¡¯re leaving now. Ms. Wilcher?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ivy was Dexter¡¯s assistant, so she didn¡¯t dare to act rudely.


    ¡°The Sylmark project is a project important to our corporation. Ms. Wilcher must be really busy these


    days, Ivy asked with a polite smile.


    ire felt her rage boiling. I¡¯m merely an assistant. The workload is alright, she sneered.


    Ivy slowly shifted her gaze to the back and noticed Josie typing hastily on her keyboard. ¡°I¡¯m not sure


    how the executives decided on it. Everyone is aware of Ms. Wilcher¡¯s outstanding ability. How did you


    end up ¡°as the assistant?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Miller, you have a good eye for talent. Someone must¡¯ve used petty and filthy tricks to be in


    charge of a project they¡¯re not qualified for. What bad luck!¡±


    They took the elevator to the ground floor together. Ivy bought two cups of Americano and gave one of


    them to ire. ¡°If she¡¯s not qualified, we shall make her resign.¡±

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124


    Chapter 124 You Can&apost Let Her Win


    ire felt stifled. I. I know what to do.


    Ivy was pleased. She was even more satisfied when she saw ire walk away weakly.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She took a sip of coffee. The bitter taste dispersed in her mouth, and she furrowed her brows. Many


    years had passed, but she still couldn¡¯t drink Americano as Dexter did.


    Ivy had forgotten a document in the office and had hurriedly returned to take it yesterday. night. That


    was when she saw the wench, Josie, hanging around Dexter. Although thetter looked impatient, he


    still patiently told her about Landon and Arnold.


    Ivy had never been treated like that!


    And their actions were intimate¡­.


    Although Josie made the first move. Russell didn¡¯t push her away.


    The hatred in Josie¡¯s heart increased when she thought of that scene. She wanted to destroy Josie


    viciously!


    After one week.


    Josie worked at the office until dawn daily for the Sylmark project. She kept discarding designs and


    starting from scratch because she was unsatisfied. It wasn¡¯t easy for her toe with a proposal she


    was satisfied with, but it was almost the day of the meeting when she


    up


    did.


    ire put one hand on Josie¡¯s workstation. ¡°Take the me and resign if you can¡¯te up with


    anything. Don¡¯t be too hard on yourself.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hands left the keyboard. She leaned back to confront Ivy. ¡°If I remember correctly, the two of us


    are a team. Will you also take the me and resign like me if I can¡¯te up with. anything, Ms.


    Wilcher?¡±


    ire red at Josie. ¡°I won¡¯t be in such a state if I were the main designer in the first ce.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame you


    ¡°You!¡±


    aren¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°May I offer a bit of advice, Ms. Miller? Instead of criticizing me, think of ways to help me in the


    meeting. It¡¯s such an important project. Many significant leaders will be there.¡±

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125


    Chapter 125 His Heart Is Failing


    Josie calmed down when she saw ire¡¯s face red from anger.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care! You¡¯re the main designer, so you¡¯re responsible. It has nothing to do with me.¡± ire


    seemed defeated. She rushed back to her office angrily in her heels.


    Josie sneered after ire left.


    But Josie was running out of time. She had to work overtime to finish the design, and it wasn¡¯t easy to


    draw on the bus. Josie had tried it a few times, but it was inefficient. And for some reason, she felt


    someone following her, but she wouldn¡¯t see anyone or anything when.


    she turned.


    Is it Justin? But he¡¯s now with Calvin.


    Josie felt that she was going mad from working overtime, so she decided to hitch a ride with Dexter for


    the remaining days.


    It just so happened that he only left workte at night. No one would bump into them in the office.


    In the car, Josie smiled while holding onto herptop. She chatted happily with the driver. ¡°Thank you,


    Mr. Sorby.


    The driver, Chris Sorby, nced at the man¡¯s dark expression in the rearview mirror and didn¡¯t dare say


    anything. ¡°You¡¯re too polite, Mrs. Russell¡­ You can call me Chris.¡±


    Josie ignored him. She turned on herptop, and the modeling page popped up.


    Dexter massaged his temples. He disapproved of her actions. ¡°What kind of a design can youe up


    with by working at thest minute?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t even raise her head. ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s best for you not toment since this isn¡¯t your


    field.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. He couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with her further.


    The Porsche drove quickly at night and raced past the city¡¯s neon lights. The car was silent. Dexter was


    replying to emails. There was a rapport between the two as they tapped on their keyboards.


    At this time, the piercing sound of a phone ringing broke their rhythm.


    Josie took out her cell phone. When she saw that it was a call from Matthew, she immediately


    answered in fright. ¡°Matt?¡±


    Dexter stopped typing.


    Matthew¡¯s voice was loud and panicked. ¡°Jo! Quicklye to the hospital. Your dad¡¯s heart is failing,


    and he suddenly stopped breathing. We¡¯re trying to save him now!¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand started to tremble, and her throat tightened. ¡°I¡¯lle now!¡±


    She ended the call, shut herptop abruptly, and looked at Dexter, who was beside her. He said


    decisively, ¡°To the hospital!¡±


    Josie clenched her hands tightly and took a sip of water. She looked entirely lost.


    ¡°My dad has never been in such a situation all these years that he¡¯s been sick. Is he¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s calm voice suppressed her anxiety. ¡°No. It¡¯s normal for patients in a vegetative state to


    experience heart failure. It¡¯s alright if the doctors can save him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes met his. ¡°What if¡­ they can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Josie, Dexter stopped, and his voice softened, ¡°that won¡¯t happen.¡±


    The car stopped at the hospital entrance, and Josie immediately exited the car before running in.


    Dexter mmed the car door, and he followed her quickly and urgently.


    It was like a hundred-meter dash for Josie because she was so nervous. She bumped into countless


    people on the way and apologized to them numbly until she reached the


    theatre.


    operating


    The outside of the operating theatre was empty. A nurse rushed back and forth with medical


    equipment, and Josie suddenly grabbed her. ¡°Miss, how is my dad?¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°We¡¯re still trying to save him now.¡±


    Dexter had arrived. He put his arm around her waist and pulled her to him. He said to the nurse, I¡¯m


    sorry. You can go ahead.¡±


    Josie had lost all sense of propriety, and she fell into his arms weakly. She heard his voice from above.


    ¡°Calm down. Everything will be fine.¡±


    The words ¡®In Surgery¡¯ were brightly lit outside the operating theatre. It made Josie tremble.

 Chapter 126

    Chapter 126


    Chapter 126 Dexter''s Encouragement


    Josie sat on a bench in the corridor and hugged her knees. She felt very insecure.


    ¡°Do you smell that, Dexter? It¡¯s the smell of disinfectant. I hate this smell. It¡¯s so suffocating.¡± she said


    softly.


    Dexter¡¯s throat rumbled. He had neverforted such a vulnerable woman, so he didn¡¯t know what to


    say.


    Josie was still speaking. It seemed like she could only soothe the panic in her heart by talking.


    ¡°How did you feel when your grandfather was sick? Were you upset?¡±


    Dexter sat beside her and spoke softly. I was nervous, just like you. Although I didn¡¯t need money, I


    understood clearly at that moment that we can¡¯t defeat illnesses¡±


    Josie shut her eyes. She felt the same today. ¡°Everyone advised me to give up treatment for my dad


    three years ago. They said he would be as good as dead if he continued living. Not only would I run out


    of money, but he would also be a burden. More importantly, he would be in a lot of pain.¡±


    ¡°But I wanted him to stay alive, and I didn¡¯t care. He had to survive. He¡¯s my father. He raised me for


    many years, and I haven¡¯t repaid him. She took a deep breath, and her tears fell.


    Dexter put his arm around her shoulders and pulled her into his arms. His chin rested on top of her


    head. ¡°Your dad persevered so many years because of you. He will understand.¡±


    Josie looked up with tear-filled eyes, searching for approval. ¡°Really? Will he really not me me?


    Then why did such a thing happen today? Is he in pain? Does he want to leave?¡±


    Dexter raised his hands and wiped away the tears on her face. He must be angry because you haven¡¯t


    visited him in a long time.¡±


    Josie paused and quickly nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. That must be the case. I haven¡¯t spoken to him in a


    long time, so he¡¯s angry and mes me.¡±


    When Dexter saw her repeat it to herself continuously, his heart ached for her. All their so- called


    boundaries disappeared without a trace. At that moment, he just wanted her tears to stop.


    But at that moment, the doors of the operating theatre opened. Matthew was at the front, and a few


    doctors in white gowns were behind him.


    ¡°Matt! How¡¯s my dad?¡± Josie tottered forward.


    Matthew looked away from the man behind her. His brows wrinkled slightly, and his voice


    was gentle. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We saved him. He¡¯s out of danger.¡±


    Josie felt weak, and she patted her chest. ¡°That¡¯s good. Why did such a thing happen today?¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Matthew took off his gloves and exined patiently, ¡°Mr. Warren has been lying on the hospital bed for


    three years. With the medicine he¡¯s given, it¡¯s normal for his heart to fail. Although we saved him, he


    will be in bad shape in the future if he doesn¡¯t wake up.¡±


    Josie listened solemnly. ¡°Alright¡­¡±


    ¡°Your family has to work hard in this aspect and try your best to wake him up.¡± Matthew looked at her


    from the start until the end. ¡°Jo, there isn¡¯t much time left.¡±


    Josie understood, and she nodded furiously. ¡°Alright. It¡¯s good that he survived. I will try harder after


    this.¡±


    After they finished talking, the doctors behind Matthew stepped forward and greeted Dexter


    respectfully. ¡°Hello, Mr. Russell.¡±


    They were the medical team that Dexter had arranged.


    Dexter looked up. His voice was indifferent yet restrained. ¡°Spare no effort for the following


    treatment.¡±


    Matthew pursed his lips and looked at the dignified man. ¡°Jo, this is?¡±


    Josie came to her senses. For a moment, she didn¡¯t know how to introduce Dexter.


    ¡°He¡­¡±

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127


    Chapter 127 Marking His Territory


    Arge hand fell on her shoulder as soon as she spoke, and Dexter¡¯s voice was heard. ¡°I am Jo¡¯s


    husband, Dexter Russell.¡±


    It was a bolt from the blue.


    Matthew¡¯s scrutinizing gaze turned vignt. There was also very subtle malice.


    Josie raised her head, baffled. Tears were still in the corners of her eyes. She never thought Dexter


    would admit it in front of the medical team and Matthew, an outsider.


    ¡°It¡¯s you.¡± After a long time, Matthewughed lightly. He reached out to shake Dexter¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯ve


    heard Jo mention it.¡±


    In other words. Matthew was implying that he and Josie were good friends who knew everything about


    each other. Or perhaps they were more than friends.


    Upon hearing it. Dexter looked down. ¡°Oh? I didn¡¯t know that Mrs. Russell had such a good rtionship


    with Dr. Sander.¡±


    The grip on Josie¡¯s shoulder tightened, and her blood froze. However, this wasn¡¯t the ce to exin.


    Thankfully, nurses pushed Josie¡¯s dad out of the operating theatre at this time. Josie found an excuse


    to leave. ¡°Dad is out. I¡¯m going to see him.¡± Since Dexter had started this mess, he could deal with it


    himself.


    Dexter was six feet tall and towered over Matthew slightly when they stood opposite each other. Dexter


    spoke in a deep voice. ¡°Dr. Sander, I heard that you requested to join Paul¡¯s medical team. You used to


    be his attending physician, so I approved of it. Thank you for your hard work.¡±


    Matthew looked to the side and saw Josie looking closely at her dad. ¡°It¡¯s my duty as a doctor. You¡¯re


    very


    devoted too, Mr. Russell. The medical team is excellent. But it¡¯s my first time. seeing you in three


    years.¡±


    A smile appeared on Dexter¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯ve never met me, Dr. Sander, but I¡¯ve seen you. previously.¡±


    Matthew frowned. He didn¡¯t remember. ¡°Where have you seen me, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°At the business district near the hospital. You were eating with my wife at the time. What was it?¡±


    Dexter thought about it earnestly. ¡°I think it was Italian food.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s expression changed. He never imagined Dexter had seen him eating with Josie


    alone.


    ¡°What tone are you using with me, Mr. Russell? I¡¯ve known Jo for three years. Is there anything wrong


    with us having a meal together?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved. ¡°Of course not. I hope you can have a meal with both of us next time. It¡¯ll be on


    me.¡±


    Matthew held his tongue and didn¡¯t answer. He stared in Josie¡¯s direction, looking captivated by her.


    Dexter silently blocked Matthew¡¯s line of sight by stepping to the side. ¡°Jo and I got married in a rush. I


    haven¡¯t had time toe with her to the hospital, but I wille frequently after this. Dr. Sander, you


    can also talk to me if you need to speak with Jo.¡±


    It was a marriage agreement, but Dexter used his identity as Josie¡¯s husband to mark his territory.


    Matthew was slightly perplexed.


    Josie¡¯s dad was pushed into the hospital room, and Josie followed up with the nurse. Matthew


    suddenly appeared behind her, examining Paul¡¯s physical signs skillfully. He said casually, ¡°Is he


    worried that I will publicly reveal his identity? Is that why he¡¯s acting as a good husband before me?¡±


    Josie was confused. She stood up and saw Dexter¡¯s figure at the hospital room door, talking to


    someone on the phone as though dealing with work.


    ¡°What did he say to you?¡±


    Matthew sounded slightly angry. ¡°He said I can also speak to him if I need to speak with you.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie also felt that what Dexter said had overstepped a boundary. Dexter shouldn¡¯t have been so open


    about his identity, but her mind was a mess at this time. She didn¡¯t notice anything strange, so she


    said, ¡°Yes. He¡¯s afraid you will make it public.¡±

 Chapter 128

    Chapter 128


    Chapter 128 Because He Likes You


    Matthew kept his equipment and said solemnly, ¡°You know I won¡¯t do anything to harm you.¡±


    Josie was touched, and she nodded frantically. ¡°I do. Matt, I¡¯m very thankful for you, as always.


    Sometimes, I feel like you¡¯re a brother to me.¡±


    Matthew wasn¡¯t happy when he heard it. His lips twitched. ¡°Nice try. Stop trying to take advantage of


    me. I don¡¯t want to be your brother.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t think much of it. She felt slightly embarrassed.


    Josie only sat down when the medical staff left. She held her dad¡¯s bony hand and couldn¡¯t say


    anything for a long while. ¡°¡­ What do I have to do to wake you up?¡±


    She stayed in ce of the care worker that night. Dexter had walked over after he ended his call, and


    he didn¡¯t react when she told him. ¡°I¡¯ll stay with you.¡±


    Josie was surprised. Although the VIP hospital room was nice, it wasn¡¯t a ce for someone of


    Dexter¡¯s stature to stay.


    Upon seeing her open her mouth in surprise, Dexter patted her head. ¡°What¡¯s up with your expression?


    Getting old, sick, and dying is only natural. It happens to everyone, and it isn¡¯t a unique experience.¡±


    Josie wasforted by what he said. She asked, ¡°Did you say that to Dr. Sander just now because


    you¡¯re worried he will expose us? Don¡¯t worry. He won¡¯t. He¡¯s not that kind of person.¡±


    Dexter leaned against the window and took out a pack of cigarettes. He unwrapped it. ¡°Do you know


    him well?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s basically my father¡¯s savior.¡±


    ¡°I have this floor covered. Nothing will be leaked. As for Dr. Sander, I also trust that he won¡¯t say


    anything.¡± Dexter lit the cigarette between his lips and said casually, ¡°Because he likes you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened when she heard it. ¡°You¡¯re mad. Matt is like a brother to me. How can that be?¡±


    He opened the window to let the smoke out. ¡°How do you think he thinks of you?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way. If he likes me, why didn¡¯t he tell me¡­¡± Josie couldn¡¯t ept it.


    Unlock seeded


    argue with her.


    This was the first time Josie had heard of such a possibility, and she thought it was absurd. But her


    thoughts wavered when she recalled the moments she interacted with Matthew. Josie never had the


    time nor dared to have such thoughts. Now that she thought about it, it seemed likely.


    ¡°I¡¯m ordinary, and I have nothing. I only have a sick father. Why would he like me?¡±


    When Dexter heard her muttering, he ridiculed her. ¡°Yes. I never thought I would marry someone like


    you, either.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t seem to hear him. She stared at the man on the hospital bed and was lost in thought.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Dr. Sander doesn¡¯t like me. He treats me like a friend. Don¡¯t tease me. I¡¯m thinking of how to make my


    dad wake up.¡±


    Josie had tried everything when her dad had first gone into aa. She had tried staying overnight


    with Justin, and she tried talking a lot to her dad. One year passed, and her dad didn¡¯t move at all.


    Gradually, she could only get her life in order first and work hard to afford his medical bills.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes closed slightly, and he extinguished his cigarette. ¡°Let nature take its course. You can¡¯t


    force life or death.¡±


    Josie¡¯s figure stiffened. She didn¡¯t turn around. ¡°You¡¯re ruthless.¡±


    His actions paused. Josie suddenly asked, ¡°Dexter, have you ever been unwilling to let go of anyone?


    Other than your grandfather.¡±


    Dexter sat near the light, and his face was half lit. After a moment, he answered indifferently, ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129


    Chapter 129 Different Types of Affection


    ¡°Were you sad at the time? You must have been upset, right? Perhaps the person treated you well.


    How would you allow them to leave your life suddenly?¡± Josie wasn¡¯t implying anything. She was


    immersed in her sadness.


    ¡°Sad?¡± Dexter said slowly. He thought of the endless rainy season back then.


    The woman, who had always been intelligent and graceful, had hit him frantically that day. She pped


    him mercilessly. ¡°If I could, I wish that I never met you. Do you know you¡¯re a vile spawn that ruined my


    life?!¡±


    Servants rushed forward and pulled her away, shouting for Dexter to leave quickly.


    Dexter, who was seven years old at the time, stood frozen on the spot. His mouth was filled. with blood,


    and he had looked at her numbly. ¡°¡­ But Mommy, I love you very much.¡±


    He was still young, and he hadn¡¯t known how to express his feelings at the time. He only knew how to


    say ¡®I love you.¡¯


    The woman turned manic. She felt agitated by what he said. She viciously picked up a cup on the table


    and threw it at his face. ¡°I don¡¯t need you to love me! Why don¡¯t you


    die?!¡±


    For a moment, blood flowed profusely. The boy had stood on the spot and didn¡¯t say a word. while the


    entire vi went into turmoil.


    Dexterposed himself and took a deep breath. ¡°I was too young. I can¡¯t remember well.¡±


    He only remembered that he never expressed his feelings after that incident.


    Josie didn¡¯t know what he was thinking about. It was an ambiguous answer.


    She seemed to be talking to herself. ¡°My father means a lot to me. He would never desert me even if


    the world had abandoned me. Back then, we were poor, and he had frostbite on hist hands. He was


    unwilling to buy a pair of gloves for himself, but he was willing to buy me ice cream after school every


    day. He didn¡¯t even buy ice cream for Justin.¡±


    ¡°After I grew up, I had everything other girls did. He was young but worked two jobs because of me and


    ended up sick.¡±


    Dexter said nothing as he listened to her. He seemed to have thought of something.


    Her voice choked up, and she said, ¡°I¡¯m going to take myptop from the car.¡±


    After she left, the hospital room felt cold and quiet. Only dust floated in the air, making Paul¡¯s face


    seem unrealistic. Dexter slowly sighed.


    He sat closer to Paul, and after a long time, he said, ¡°Hello. I¡¯m Josie¡¯s husband.¡±


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It felt strange, so he added, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s only temporary.¡±


    There was no response.


    Josie¡¯s dady on the hospital bed without moving. Only the dripping of Paul¡¯s IV reminded Dexter that


    Paul was still alive.


    Dexter rarely said anything emotional because he didn¡¯t like to. Although he was still aloof at that


    moment, his voice softened. ¡°It hasn¡¯t been easy for her for the past few years. Don¡¯t worry. From now


    on, I will do everything I can to protect her. But you are her only wish. If you don¡¯t want to burden her,


    please quickly wake up.¡±


    After that, Paul still didn¡¯t move. Dexter didn¡¯t expect him to, either. Josie hadn¡¯t been able to wake him


    for the past three years. How could he wake Paul after talking to Paul for the first time?


    When Josie went downstairs to take herptop, she realized a few more bodyguards were on duty.


    There were also bodyguards by Dexter¡¯s car. She furrowed her brows. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Chris quickly said, ¡°Mr. Russell arranged for them.¡±


    It made sense. With his stature, sensational articles would be released if reporters saw him in the


    hospital.


    Josie returned to the hospital room with herptop and found Dexter sitting at his spot. He looked up at


    an elm tree outside the window. Dexter had a strange expression that was hard. to figure out. Josie


    didn¡¯t know what he was thinking of.


    Someone like him shouldn¡¯t have been here, but he chose to stay. It was hard to argue with


    him.


    Josieposed herself. She turned on herptop and put it on a table before the couch.


    When Dexter heard the noise, he asked her, ¡°Are you working?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t raise her head. She was focused on amending her design. ¡°The meeting is approaching. If


    I can¡¯t submit a design, I will voluntarily take the me and resign without ire forcing me.¡±

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130


    Chapter 130 He Will Let the Cat Out of the Bag


    Dexter said nothing. He suddenly realized that she was doing her utmost to keep her job. She was


    persevering.


    After a long time, Dexter sat beside her on the couch and examined her design. ¡°How much do you


    have left?¡±


    Josie was exhausted. ¡°I¡¯m almost done.¡±


    Dexter said nothing. He leaned back on the couch. When he saw it clearly, he asked, ¡°School district


    housing?¡±


    Josie burst outughing in disbelief. ¡°You spent so much money on this project. Don¡¯t you know what


    it¡¯s about?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t know. His initial goal for the project was for her to practice her skills.


    But she didn¡¯t seem too happy.


    ¡°Take your time. If you can¡¯t make it, I will find a way to postpone it,¡± Dexter said in a low voice. He


    picked up his pack of cigarettes and seemed slightly distracted.


    Josie paused. She turned and looked into his cloudy eyes. ¡°Are you trying to let the cat out of the bag?¡±


    ¡°So what if I am?¡±


    He answered honestly and innocently. Josie was dumbstruck.


    After a moment¡¯s silence, a smile quietly appeared in the corners of Josie¡¯s mouth. She used to think


    Dexter didn¡¯t have many feelings because he was cold and indifferent. But in reality, he downyed his


    kindness to others. He was silentlypassionate to others without them realizing it.


    Once Josie noticed it, the feelings in her heart flourished.


    Josie didn¡¯t push herself. When she was almost done, shey at the side and slept. She only woke the


    next day when Matthew came to do his rounds in the morning.


    up


    No one was beside her. Dexter had left.


    For some reason, there was a coat draped on her. It was from Dexter¡¯s suit.


    Matthew examined Paul with the nurses, and a care worker entered the room. Josie packed up and


    was about to go to work.


    He Will Let the Cat Out of the Bag


    ¡°Jo,¡± Matthew called her.


    Josie turned. She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt strangely toward him since Dexter said Matthew liked


    her.


    ¡°Matt.¡±


    Matthew pursed his lips tightly. Rays from the rising sunnded on him, making him seem warm and


    gentle.


    ¡°I thought about it the whole night. Every move your husband makes isn¡¯t ordinary. He has eyes and


    ears on the whole floor and smart tricks up his sleeve. Keep yourself safe. You can call me if you¡¯re in


    danger.¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was startled, but it made sense when she thought about it. Dexter didn¡¯t appear in public often. It


    was only natural for Matthew to feel wary about him. But¡­ she wasn¡¯t in danger.


    She forced a smile. ¡°Matt, I know you care for me, but he won¡¯t harm me. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Matthew wrinkled his brows. He looked like he wanted to say something but stopped. ¡°It seems like you


    know him well?¡±


    ¡°Not really. Just think about it this way. It¡¯s a mutually beneficial rtionship. He won¡¯t harm.


    me.¡±


    Matthew was still apprehensive. ¡°Jo, are you going to get a divorce when your father wakes up?¡±


    Josie thought about what Dexter had said when she saw Matthew like that.


    Does Matt really like me?


    ¡°Matt, I¡¯m going to bete. I¡¯ll be leaving. I¡¯lle at night.¡± She pointed at her watch. nervously before


    running out to the corridor.


    Matthew was lost in thought as he watched her stumbling figure.


    Josie ran downstairs and suddenly discovered that Dexter¡¯s car was still around, and so was Chris. He


    said to her respectfully, ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell instructed me to send you to the


    office.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°What about him?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell left in another car. He intentionally ordered me to stay back.¡±

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131


    Chapter 131 Chicken Soup


    Josie was about to bete, so she didn¡¯t turn Chris down. She got into the car.


    On the way to the office, she thought about Matthew¡¯s words. Will I get a divorce if Dad wakes up?


    In the beginning, Josie would have gotten a divorce without hesitation and escaped Dexter. But now,


    the two were entangled. It seemed like they would still be intertwined after a divorce.


    The meeting was tomorrow. Josie sorted out her designs earnestly the whole day, and she immediately


    packed up when it was time to leave work, preparing to go to the hospital.


    Alice called after her. ¡°Why are you in a rush? What are you doing? Are you done with the project?¡±


    Josie stuffed herptop into her bag, and she looked tired. ¡°Almost. The doctors operated on my dad


    yesterday and said I must think of a way to wake him up. That¡¯s why I must go to th hospital today.¡±


    The entire design department knew Josie¡¯s father was in a vegetative state. Other people sighed when


    they heard it, and someone interrupted, ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask your husband to take care of him? You¡¯re


    also working overtime. How can you bear all these on your own?¡±


    When Josie heard it, she trembled in fright. She didn¡¯t have the nerve to ask Dexter to care for her dad.


    Alice added, ¡°That¡¯s right. The meeting is tomorrow. You should be cautious. It¡¯s alright to ask your


    husband to take your ce for a day.¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded. ¡°He¡­ he¡­¡±


    Alice lowered her voice and said, ¡°Why? Is it inconvenient?¡±


    It¡¯s very inconvenient! Josie¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°He¡­ Didn¡¯t I tell you? He¡¯s not feeling well too. It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s


    just a little more tiring for me.¡±


    After that, she walked to the elevator guiltily.


    People started discussing behind her back. ¡°Pffi, what a shame. Josie is quite pretty, but she married


    such a man. It will get tougher for her in the future.¡±


    At this time, ire returned and bumped into Josie. She sized Josie up strangely. ¡°Are you done?¡±


    Josie had a headache and sounded tired. ¡°Yes, thanks to you, Ms. Wilcher.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ire sneered and raised her brows. ¡°You better make sure there are no mistakes. Not only will


    important leaders be there for tomorrow¡¯s meeting, but government officials will be there to monitor too.


    Don¡¯t embarrass the design department.¡±


    Josie looked away. She couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with ire. She walked past ire and


    left.


    ire gritted her teeth as she watched Josie¡¯s figure. She felt slightly nervous. She wouldn¡¯t let Josie


    get promoted!


    Dexter didn¡¯t go to the hospital with Josie today. He left Chris for her so she coulde and go as she


    pleased.


    Although he didn¡¯t say anything, she felt his effort.


    He was cautious. Chris deliberately parked away from Russell Group, and Josie walked to him without


    attracting attention.


    ¡°Is Mr. Russell very busy today, Mr. Sorby?¡±


    Chris raised his head. ¡°It seems like it. He has a dinner party today, so he should be quite busy. Don¡¯t


    me him, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Calling me Mrs. Russell is like second nature to you.¡±


    If people kept calling her ¡®Mrs. Russell, she would think that she was indeed Mrs. Russell.


    It was better to not think of anything rather than have such delusions.


    Josie stayed in the hospital room and took care of Paul. Mrs. Carroll sent over food and clothes from


    Mason Garden.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, here¡¯s some chicken soup. I added vegetables that I got from the farmers¡¯ market. Drink


    it while it¡¯s hot so you can regain some strength.¡±


    Josie took the bowl and drank a mouthful. Sure enough, it was fragrant and delicious. ¡°You have great


    skills.¡±


    Mrs. Carroll smiled kindly. ¡°Mr. Russell specially instructed me to deliver it on time so you won¡¯t get


    hungry.¡±


    Upon hearing it, Josie burned her tongue on the soup. ¡°He instructed you?¡±

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132


    Chapter 132 Birthday Present


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Mrs. Carroll didn¡¯t feel anything strange.


    Josie was slightly lost in thought. How is he so attentive?


    Mrs. Carroll leftte at night. Josiey on the couch. She tossed and turned but couldn¡¯t fall asleep.


    Josie took out her cell phone and wanted to y games but wasn¡¯t feeling it. In the end, she opened


    her chat with Dexter. What is he doing now? Is he still at the dinner party?


    He should be drinking, right? Did he drink too much? No, he¡¯s always had his limits. No one can force


    him to drink if he doesn¡¯t want to.


    Josie was actually quite nervous when faced with the meeting tomorrow. This was her first time in


    charge of such a big project. She could make a name for herself, and many important figures would be


    present¡­


    Josie suddenly thought to herself. Would Dexter be nervous if he were in my shoes? I don¡¯t think so.


    He¡¯s experienced a lot.


    Today, Dexter was at Leo¡¯s birthday party. Leo had invited many friends, and everyone was having fun.


    It was lively. Leo, who was from a wealthy family, liked famous figures and Inte celebrities, so a few


    were invited.


    Dexter didn¡¯t quite like such asions. Leo almost jumped with joy when he saw Dexter. ¡°I thought you


    wouldn¡¯te. Mr. Russell!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your first birthday after returning to the country. How could I not show up?¡± Dexter leaned to the


    side and gave a box amid the noise. ¡°It¡¯s a present for you.¡±


    Leo


    Leo¡¯s eyes lit up, and he opened the present at once. A pair of car keys were inside.


    ¡°You kept asking me to remodel the car before you left the country. I held back because you were still


    underage back then. I can give it to you now.¡±


    Dexter had been wild when he was young. He was well-versed with race cars and tattoos, and Leo had


    always worshipped him. Leo even dreamt of owning a Mercedes AMG G 63 that Dexter had personally


    modified.


    Leo was so excited that he was close to tears. ¡°You treat me so well, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter smiled faintly.


    After that, he sat in the corner and lit a cigarette. He looked at the lively younger people with


    the dim lighting and didn¡¯t seem to want to participate.


    A few Inte celebrities wanted to approach him and offer him a drink. The man had such a different


    demeanor. He was unrestrained yet dignified. Those Inte celebrities had met many wealthy people,


    but not someone who was both rich and charming.


    But Leo stopped them and warned them. ¡°Don¡¯t try to flirt with Mr. Russell. He won¡¯t be interested.¡±


    They could only give up and peek at Dexter reluctantly.


    He sat in the corner for a long time. He didn¡¯t smoke or y with his phone. He spaced out, lost in


    thought and slightly distracted.


    At this time, his cell phone on the table rang. He saw something and answered the call quickly but


    didn¡¯t move.


    Josie heard the noise in the phone, and she wrinkled her brows. ¡°Are you at a nightclub?¡±


    Dexter never thought she would take the initiative to call, so he subconsciously asked, ¡°Did something


    happen at the hospital?¡±


    Josie was silent and answered after a moment. ¡°¡­ No.¡±


    Both of them were silent. Josie heard the noise on his end and felt awkward. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s nothing


    much. I¡¯m just bored by myself. Are you free?¡±


    Dexter raised his brows. ¡°I can¡¯te to the hospital if you want me to.¡±


    Josieughed when she heard it. She wondered if she could ask for such a thing. ¡°It¡¯s not that. Can you


    talk to me for a while? I¡¯m slightly nervous.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt more nervous after she summoned the courage to make this call. She


    felt anxious when talking to Dexter.


    At this time, Ivy came in. She hesitated when she saw that he was on the phone.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Dexter indicated for her to speak.


    Ivy leaned close and spoke sofily in his ears. ¡°There is an investigation team at the scene in in


    clothes. They¡¯re on the left. I just received the information.¡±

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133


    Chapter 133 Tracking the Culprit


    Dexter nodded, and he held his cell phone in his other hand. ¡°You can start sending out the


    information.¡±


    Ivy nodded, expressing that she understood. She quickly left the private room.


    Josie faintly heard some noise on the other end, but it wasn¡¯t clear. ¡°Is that Ms. Miller?¡±


    Dexter got up and walked out of the noisy space. He found a hidden spot where no one would notice


    him. ¡°Yes. Today is Leo¡¯s birthday, so I came to give him a present.¡±


    Josie acknowledged it, although she didn¡¯t fully understand what Dexter was doing. But after thest


    time, she vaguely felt he wasn¡¯t sincere toward Mr. Ardon.


    ¡°Did Ms. Miller apany you?¡± Jose asked affectionately after she thought about it for a while.


    ¡°Why? Are you jealous?¡± Dexter leaned his elbow against the railing. As he looked down, he saw a


    group of uniformed police officers enter.


    ¡°Yes. There are rumors in the office that Ms. Miller is the only woman by your side, and she will be the


    future Mrs. Russell.¡± Josiey on the couch and deliberately acted coy.


    ¡°What do you think, Mrs. Russell?¡± Dexter put his hand on his forehead casually as he saw the group of


    people enter the elevator.


    Josie smiled. ¡°They said that Russell Group wasn¡¯t at its current scale in the early days. It was Ivy who


    helped you build it up. Is it true?¡±


    ¡°Ivy is loyal, dependable, and skillful. It¡¯s only natural for me to trust her.¡±


    Nearby, the elevator rose as it went up.


    Josie didn¡¯t quite understand. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯m curious why Ms. Miller didn¡¯t catch your heart.


    She¡¯s pretty. You could have asked her to marry you.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s been with me for too long. Grandpa wouldn¡¯t have believed it.¡± Dexter wasn¡¯t very interested.


    ¡°Did you call me at this time to criticize me, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Josie was startled by his mild teasing, so she exined dully, ¡°I¡¯m slightly nervous about the meeting


    tomorrow.¡±


    The elevator doors opened, and the uniformed officers walked out. The servers retreated when they


    saw the police officers.


    Dexter smiled. ¡°You had quite a vicious demeanor when you exposed Samantha¡¯s giarism. I thought


    you were brave.¡±


    ¡°How is that the same¡­ Wait, were you there at the time? How do you know?¡± Josie mumbled.


    I heard about it.¡±


    At this time, she heard shrieks and various frightened screams from his end.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    The person in the lead took out a document. ¡°Police inspection. Please cooperate.¡±


    After that, a group of people poured into the private room. Everyone in the room panicked. but none


    were allowed to leave.


    Dexter turned, and he stopped thinking about it. He loosened his tie with one hand and said to Josie, ¡°I


    will be at the meeting tomorrow.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows and was silent for a moment.


    ¡°Did something¡­ happen to Leo?¡±


    The elevator was going down, and Dexter didn¡¯t have good reception, but Josie could still hear the


    noise clearly. Dexter raised his brows. She¡¯s pretty sharp.


    ¡°How did you guess?¡±


    Josie never thought that it was really the case. Her throat closed up in a panic. ¡°¡­ I heard police


    officers there. From what I understand, Leo is younger than you. If you attended his party personally, it


    must not have been to merely give him a gift.¡±


    It was to¡­ make a move¡­


    Dexter said coldly, ¡°His father is very influential in Wavery and conspires with many officials. It¡¯s not that


    I wanted to make a move. He gave me the opportunity to do so.¡±


    Josie knew Dexter wanted to mess with the Ardon family, but she never thought he would move so


    quickly.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Is something wrong with Leo?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but not much. Everything depended on Leo.¡±


    Ivy stood waiting at the entrance. The night was cold, and her legs were bare. She was tottering slightly


    and looked weak.


    She thought it was strange and furrowed her brows when she saw Dexter still on the phone

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134


    Chapter 134 The Person He Groomed


    Josie was terrified. She thought that the city officials were untouchable. Still, she never imagined that


    Dexter could make a move against someone so influential.


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t actually go to give him a present, but to¡­¡± Make things difficult for Leo. ¡°Leo likes you.


    He would hate you if he found out.¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Dexter got into the car, and Ivy followed. He looked down and casually picked up a coat ced at the


    side. He threw it on her legs. Ivy was pleasantly surprised.


    ¡°I can only guarantee that if something happens, he won¡¯t have a hard time in the future.¡± Dexter held


    his cell phone in his other hand. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you sleeping?¡±


    After talking to him, Josie suddenly felt that what was happening tomorrow wasn¡¯t a big deal, and she


    naturally felt less nervous. ¡°I¡¯m going to sleep now. Um, Dexter¡­¡±


    The man waited, and he heard her say, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    After that, she hung up at once. Dexter heard the dial tone in the phone, and a subtle smile appeared in


    the corners of his mouth.


    Ivy noticed his smile and unconsciously guessed who was on the other end. Was it Josie?


    ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Ardon has been waiting for a long time,¡± Ivy answered quickly.


    ¡°Tell her toe in.¡±


    The car door opened, and a woman with exquisite makeup entered. When she saw the coat covering


    Ivy¡¯s legs, she smiled at the man with his eyes shut. ¡°You treat your assistant well, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Ivy gripped the coat tightly and said coldly, ¡°Get on with it.¡±


    The woman spoke wearily. It was a bit of an upational hazard. ¡°With the current situation, I¡¯m


    unsure if I can keep it to myself. If you can protect me, Mr. Russell, I will serve you. faithfully.¡±


    Dexter had yet to open his eyes. He smelled the scent of perfume on her and furrowed his brows


    slightly.


    Ivy spoke nastily. ¡°We¡¯ve groomed you for so long. Are you trying to take us for granted?¡±


    ¡°Watch your words, Ms. Miller.¡±


    The Person He Groomed


    Ivy was dumbfounded.


    ¡°Why should I protect you?¡±


    The man¡¯s voice was icy. It was as bone-chilling as snow in winter.


    Mrs. Ardon stared at his ethereal face, and her hand slithered up his leg. ¡°Westin Ardon abused his


    public position to attain personal gain. I have a list of people who conspired with him, including Martin. I


    don¡¯t know if this stepping stone will move you, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Ivy red at Mrs. Ardon¡¯s hand.


    Dexter still hadn¡¯t opened his eyes. His leg twitched, and he shook her hand off. ¡°Where¡¯s the


    name list?¡±


    Mrs. Ardon¡¯s hand shivered. She had experienced a lot, but she couldn¡¯t conquer this man. ¡°How can I


    simply bring such a thing with me? This is part of a video. Would you like to take a look. Mr. Russell?¡±


    He still didn¡¯t move. Ivy intuitively took it and nced at it. She said, ¡°It¡¯s real, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter slowly opened his eyes and finally looked at Mrs. Ardon. She had deliberately dressed up today


    and was in a tight dress that exposed her bosom. He nced at her and looked.


    away.


    ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Twenty million. And my freedom.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you an additional ten million. Report it under your name. After that, I will guarantee your


    safety,¡± Dexter said indifferently yet solemnly.


    Mrs. Ardon was moved by the figure. ¡°How will I know if you will really protect me?¡±


    Ivy said, ¡°Think about it. If we don¡¯t protect you, what if you turn on Russell Group?¡±


    Mrs. Ardon came to her senses when she heard it. ¡°But¡­ Westin is already on alert recently. He


    doesn¡¯t even let me enter his study room.¡±

 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135


    Chapter 135 On the Way to Russell Group


    When if he notices for fon millones foot te than controls up like dieren stof Teak her oner before If he


    thinks of billing me That


    dont pled


    Werin had always


    wanted to be and in the wave Therefore, dur wasn¡¯t as for her to home extra


    get the differed slir for many years


    eve


    to


    It was almostte autom. The wind blow out


    post deoring Dester mend his forehead with hand mot upped his other hand differently Someone


    none and


    back will take over pe ce in the new diss You can take this opportunity and har dosen


    Mr Ardon was delighted when the beard in Really?¡±


    Dexter finally looked her in the and cons Don¡¯t do something you


    one won will in Rivodia Carefully consider the pros chemist


    Mr Ardon¡¯s smile sudderds frog Hee Sege soward the man increased


    ¡°Back then I knelt before you to pod for a way out. Mr. Russell understand this principle 18


    1 was hard to avoid walking to trap art up by people with petty nick within her clustry She had gotten


    pregnant and dew why the father was the couldn¡¯t even work, and she had no way out


    Dexter had given het a job and saved are shall. Therefore he felt reasured when he used fier


    her seal lu her as a potential pawn and ced a womene miluential it ensured the woulds 1 betray hum


    Mrs Ardon exited the cat and the driver wasted the engine Dester it 4 cigarette and want to Ivy beside


    fum ¡°You dont have to dress up so much is my stant. Dont wear such clothes ic work from today


    onwards


    Ivy opened her mouth awkwardly. He hardest gen has the coast because he empathized with


    o brocause the didat


    Tunderstand Mr Russell Ste feil endurrassed and grewN¨ª.


    The following morning jook we owly the


    saged her dad, muttering. Dat. I have a crucial morning today. Etape vierything will go well. You must


    protest me lle and visi you after 1 cada


    Matthew was making has sounds of ume It¡¯s still early Why are you a rud


    festes packing


    king up hurriedly. He looked as the


    ¡°I have a meeting today, Matt. I have to head there earlier just in case. After that, she rushed


    off.


    Chris was already waiting downstairs. Josie entered the car and said, ¡°Mr. Sorby, drive steadily. I want


    to put on makeup.¡±


    Chris was surprised. ¡°Can you put on makeup in the car?¡±


    ¡°You must not know about it. This is an essential skill for every working woman.¡±


    Josie spoke daintily, then put on her makeup. She looked refined and respectable, appropriate for the


    meeting.


    However, Chris didn¡¯t need to deliberately drive carefully. The vehicle was steady because there was a


    traffic jam.


    Josie felt anxious. ¡°How can there be a traffic jam? This road doesn¡¯t usually have traffic.¡±


    Chris went forward to find out what was going on and returned. ¡°Mrs. Russell, there has been a car


    ident. The traffic police are dealing with it.¡±.


    ¡°Is it severe?¡± Josie felt vaguely uneasy. They were still quite far from Russell Group.


    ¡°I saw blood on the floor.¡±


    Traffic idents involving blood wouldn¡¯t usually be settled quickly. Josie looked at the time anxiously


    as she sat waiting in the car.


    It was almost time. Josie would be doomed if she was unprepared and arrivedter than everyone else.


    Josie pondered, then picked up her bag. ¡°Here¡¯s what I¡¯m going to do. I¡¯m going to use one of the bike-


    sharing bicycles. You don¡¯t have to drive me to the office, Mr. Sorby.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Chris wanted to chase after her, but he couldn¡¯t leave the car on the road. ¡°Mrs. Russell, how will I


    exin this to Mr. Russell?! Be careful!¡±

 Chapter 136

    Chapter 136


    Chapter 136 ident


    Josie ran to a bike-sharing station nearby and got on a bicycle. It was faster than staying in


    the cat.


    It took twenty minutes to get to Russell Group. Since she had a bag with her and had to go through


    traffic lights, she would still be dyed, but the meeting would start one hour after she had to clock in.


    The worst-case scenario was that she would bete to clock in. It wasn¡¯t too bad.


    Josie paid attention to the traffic. It was terrible during peak hours. Everyone was in a rush, and it was


    slightly dangerous to cycle among cars.


    After she started cycling, she suddenly realized that there seemed to be a car following her


    It was a ck Mercedes Benz.


    She wasn¡¯t sure, so she took two consecutive turns, and the car followed her. It would have been fine if


    they were both heading to Russell Group to work, but the other party¡¯s motive was clear. It followed


    behind her from the start until the end. It sped up and slowed down when she did.


    Josie furrowed her brows tightly. She couldn¡¯t think of who would want to target her.


    She didn¡¯t know what the other party wanted. She cycled with one hand and took out her cell phone


    with some difficulty to call Alice. When the call went through, Alice started shouting. ¡°Oh, my god. Do


    you know that it¡¯s one minute to clock into work? You better be downstairs Josie¡¯s head hurt. ¡°I can¡¯t


    make it. I¡¯m still on the way. How¡¯s the situation at the office?¡±


    ¡°The meeting room is ready, and many leaders will arrive soon. Should I help you stall?


    ¡°Yes, please. I¡¯m in a fix. I¡¯ll try to get there as fast as I can.¡± After that, Josie stared at the turning


    before her. It was an alley, and a car couldn¡¯t fit.


    She gritted her teeth and swerved to the side, leaving her initial path. She entered the alley and


    stopped. She stood with one leg and turned to see the Mercedes Benz suddenly stop at the alleyway. It


    had nowhere to go.


    Josie smiled. ¡°Trying to mess with me? Dream on.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know who the other party was, and they seemed to give up and leave. She continued cycling


    as she made her way through the alley. She would arrive at Russell Group after turning a corner.


    On the way, Josie was distracted as she thought about who was in the car. They couldn¡¯t have


    been sent by Dexter. Chris was still stuck in traffic.


    But she had no enemies. Can it possibly be Arnold?


    After she left the alley, she could see the logo of the Russell Group building when she raised her head.


    She smiled. Hopey ahead.


    As she crossed a boulevard and cycled to the road, the Mercedes Benz suddenly appeared from her


    left like a predator waiting for its prey. It focused on its target and drove straight at Josie.


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Her pupils widened. The Mercedes Benz had a clear target and was fast. Josie had no way of avoiding


    it. She couldn¡¯t avoid it even if she braked. At the next moment, there was a massive crash. She was


    hit and fell to the ground, and her body distorted. She was in pain.


    Josie fell to the ground, and herptop fell to the side. After that, she saw fresh blood and people


    gathering around her.


    Her hopepletely vanished. She wanted to move but didn¡¯t have the energy to do so.


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    At Russell Group.


    ire was pacing outside the meeting room and stared straight at the elevator. Her palms were


    sweaty. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why hasn¡¯t she arrived yet? The meeting is about to start.¡±


    ire spoke softly and even felt slightly weak.


    Many leaders had arrived and gathered in the meeting room. Alice gritted her teeth as she brought


    coffee in. ¡°I¡¯m going to entertain the leaders. Please hold on, Ms. Wilcher. Josie will make it. She¡¯s on


    the way!¡±


    Alice ran into the meeting room as she served everyone drinks. She exined that traffic was terrible


    and Josie was still on the road, so she hoped everyone would wait.


    At ten o¡¯clock, Dexter came down from the top floor. Ivy followed him. ¡°Mr. Russell, you don¡¯t have to


    attend the design department¡¯s minor meeting, do you?¡±

 Chapter 137

    Chapter 137


    Chapter 137 Solved It for Her


    He put both hands into his pocket. ¡°There¡¯s no harm. I¡¯m going to take a look.¡±


    It was a minor meeting, but the woman had been a nervous wreck yesterday. Dexter couldn¡¯t help but


    smile when he thought of Josie¡¯s tone.


    On the twenty-seventh floor, a group of people were gathered at the entrance of the meeting. room. He


    stopped. ¡°Has the meeting started?¡±


    ire looked at Ivy, who was behind Dexter. ire was sweating profusely. ¡°Mr. Russell? Why are you


    here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m asking you a question.¡±


    No one thought Dexter would attend the meeting, so they left one by one.


    Jo¡­ Josie isn¡¯t here yet.¡± ire didn¡¯t dare to raise her head.


    Ivy stood upright and asked in surprise. ¡°What did you say? It¡¯s ten o¡¯clock. Where is she?¡±


    At this time, Alice came out of the meeting room. Her legs immediately felt weak when she saw Dexter.


    Oh no. Josie is done for this time.


    ire immediately pulled her. ¡°Since you¡¯re the closest to Josie, tell us. Where is she?¡±


    Alice had no way out. ¡°She¡­ Twenty minutes ago, she told me she was on the way and asked me to


    stall.¡±


    ¡°What nonsense! Is she ying around with such an important meeting?¡± Ivy rebuked furiously.


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened, and he told Alice, ¡°Call her.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I tried¡­ She¡¯s not picking up.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Dexter¡¯s expression changedpletely, and his mystifying eyes became dark and fierce. He walked


    out and used his personal cell phone to make a call.


    ¡°Where is she?¡±


    The other party was surprised. ¡°What? Hasn¡¯t Mrs. Russell arrived at the office?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice slowly deepened.


    He hung up shortly, and there was a coldness around him. He walked past everyone and


    opened the meeting room¡¯s doors. His awful expression instantly became serene.


    ¡°We meet again, Riley.¡± Dexter extended his hand.


    ¡°Why are you here, Mr. Russell?¡± Riley Spence, who was in charge of the Sylmark project, stood up,


    surprised upon seeing Dexter.


    Other leaders around Riley also stood up. Most of them felt impatient from waiting but never expected


    Dexter to appear.


    ¡°How is our coffee? We¡¯re sorry for making you wait.¡±


    Riley shook Dexter¡¯s hand and sighed with augh. ¡°Your employee must be important since we must


    wait for her, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter admitted it with a faint smile. ¡°The employee suddenly met with a mishap, so she can¡¯t attend


    today¡¯s meeting. I apologize on her behalf. I will buy everyone a meal next time to make amends. I


    hope you can understand.¡±


    Everyone cried out in surprise. ¡°A mishap? What¡­¡±


    Regardless if the reason was valid, Dexter had personally appeared to solve the matter. They had no


    reason to get angry, for Dexter¡¯s sake.


    ¡°I will send someone to deliver the design tomorrow. We will make it an online meeting.¡± Dexter said


    politely. He continued patiently, ¡°I hope that this episode today won¡¯t affect our partnership in the


    future.¡±


    No one dared to say a word after what Dexter said. It was advantageous for them to owe Dexter a


    favor.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. Our healthes first. I hope that your employee can get well soon, Mr. Russell.¡±


    After leaving the twenty-seventh floor, Dexter rushed to the parking lot while Ivy ran to catch up with


    him.


    His cell phone rang. ¡°Mr. Russell, we found Mrs. Russell. She was involved in an ident on the road


    in front of Russell Group. Her injuries aren¡¯t fatal, and she¡¯s currently being treated at City Hospital. It


    was a Mercedes Benz who ran into her. The identity of the car owner is currently being investigated.¡±


    ¡°Continue investigating and detain that person!¡± Dexter¡¯s voice echoed in the parking lot, sounding


    intense and murderous.


    Ivy couldn¡¯t help but cower. She didn¡¯t dare to say anything the whole way.


    Dexter didn¡¯t intend to hide Josie¡¯s identity in front of her any longer.

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138


    Chapter 138 An Eye for an Eye


    Outside the operating theater, a light was lit up above him. This was his third time standing


    here.


    The first time was for Grandpa, the second was for Paul, and the third was for Josie.


    Dexter took out a pack of cigarettes and wanted to light a cigarette. His hand trembled slightly, and he


    struggled momentarily before lighting his cigarette.


    Ivy stood behind him and wanted to say something but stopped. She never thought that Dexter was


    already treating Josie like this.


    He was actually frightened¡­ Ivy had been with him for many years, and they had experienced various


    troubles, but this was her first time seeing him with such emotions¡­.


    After an hour and a half, Dexter had puffed cigarette after cigarette. He was shrouded in a smokey fog


    and had a nasty expression.


    At longst, the doctor exited the operating theater while wheeling Josie out. ¡°Who is her family?¡±


    Dexter got up and said, ¡°I¡¯m her husband.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart sank.


    ¡°I will inform you of her condition. Your wife has fractured her arm, so we put a splint on it. She has to


    rest for a while. Other than that, she wasn¡¯t hurt badly. She just has some minor injuries.¡±


    Dexter looked over. Josie was lying unconscious on the hospital bed, and her left forearm was in a


    cast. There were also bruises on her face. She didn¡¯t look angry. Instead, she looked like she was on


    the brink of death.


    His heart tightened.


    ¡°You have to deal with her admission procedures after this. She has to stay for observation for a few


    days.¡±


    Ivy gripped her constantly vibrating cell phone tightly. She said with difficulty, ¡°Let me go, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter was in disbelief. His cigarette continued burning, and it burnt him. He came to his senses. ¡°She


    was in an ident. Have you done a full body check-up? Is there anything wrong internally?¡±


    The doctor gave him a form to sign. ¡°We have. There are no other problems, but she¡¯s in a poor mental


    state. She woke up a few times during the surgery, mumbling that she needed to go to the office. Your


    wife is really a workaholic.¡±


    Dexter froze as he held the pen. His heart tightened.


    Ivy arranged for a VIP hospital room. Dexter sat by Josie¡¯s bed in the room and watched her as he was


    lost in thought.


    Someone came to the door shortly with a file. ¡°Mr. Russell, here¡¯s some information.¡±


    Dexter took it and quickly opened it. A stack of photos spilled out. There were a few pictures of Josie


    lying on the road as she was under the bicycle. Her bloody state was unpleasant, like a broken


    porcin doll.


    ¡°There was an ident from the hospital to Russell Group, which caused a huge traffic jam. Mrs.


    Russell exited the car and rode a bike-sharing bicycle while someone followed her. The driver was a


    hoodlum released from prison a few days ago. ording to him, he just wanted to take revenge on


    society. We¡¯ve reviewed the surveince cameras and found that he has followed Mrs. Russell for the


    past few days. He did it deliberately. Someone must be inciting him behind the scenes.¡±


    realized someone was following her. Hence, she


    In some of the surveince footage.ill hit.


    deliberately went into an alley but was still hit.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter sneered as he flipped through the person¡¯s information. ¡°Does the hoodlum drive at Mercedes


    Benz?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s subordinate was startled. ¡°Did Carter Group¡­ Should I investigate Arnold?¡±


    Dexter had a fierce and vicious side profile. He concluded, ¡°It isn¡¯t him. He wouldn¡¯t use such simple


    and vulgar ways.¡±


    ¡°It was today out of all days¡­¡± He hit his knee with the file absentmindedly. ¡°What were their motives?


    Did they not want Josie to attend the meeting?¡±


    He looked at Ivy, who was at the side. He had alreadye up with a preliminary conclusion.


    ¡°Investigate within Russell Group.¡±


    She pursed her lips. ¡°¡­ Alright.¡±


    As Dexter spoke to his other subordinate, his voice was fierce. ¡°Keep watch over the driver. Once the


    investigation ends, I want to make him pay. An eye for an eye.¡±

 Chapter 139

    Chapter 139


    Chapter 139 Distance Between Life and Death


    Josie had a dream. She dreamt that she had arrived at Russell Group safely, and Alice pulled her as


    they ran forward. Alice was grumbling that Josie was too slow. Then, Josie pushed the meeting room


    doors open as she apologized to the leaders. Josie hurriedly turned on herptop, exined her


    reasoning behind the design, and analyzed everything thoroughly. Everything went smoothly as she


    had imagined.


    Ultimately, her design was sessfully approved, and everyone pped for her. She smiled as she


    looked around when she suddenly saw Dexter standing at the entrance and smirking at her.


    She quickly awoke from her dream and suddenly opened her eyes. She saw a white ceiling and a


    nurse standing beside her bed, adjusting her IV.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake? I¡¯ll call the doctor.¡±


    Josie was startled as she sized up the things in the hospital room. She saw a coat on a chair. It


    belonged to Dexter.


    She cried out to the nurse, ¡°Miss, what happened to me?¡±


    ¡°You were in an ident. Don¡¯t move. Get up only after the effects of the anesthetic have. worn off. I¡¯m


    going to call the doctor.¡±


    Soon, the nurse returned with the doctor, who examined her. The doctor had a grave expression.


    ¡°Other than your fracture, you weren¡¯t injured badly. Rest well for a few days, and don¡¯t move about.¡±


    Josie only saw that her arm was in a cast at this time, and she instantly recalled that she had been hit


    by a car. Her elbow was the first to break her fall when she fell to the ground. It was no wonder that she


    suffered a fracture.


    That¡¯s right. I fell at the entrance of Russell Group, and I missed the meeting¡­


    Josie grabbed the corner of the nurse¡¯s outfit. ¡°Miss, who sent me to the hospital? Where is the owner


    of this coat?¡±


    When Josie said it, the nurse¡¯s smile deepened, and she was slightly shy. ¡°The police sent you in, and


    your husband was dealing with your procedures. He was just here. Take a look.¡± The nurse took out a


    mirror and put it in front of Josie. ¡°He personally cleaned the bruises on


    face. He said you¡¯re vain and would panic if your face had a scar.¡±


    your


    Other than the slightly red bruises on her face, her face was free from sand or dust.


    Josie couldn¡¯t exin her feelings. It was hard to imagine someone like Dexter patiently


    Distance Between Life and Death


    cleaning her face. It seemed like he also cared for her face.


    ¡°Are you unhappy?¡± The nurse realized she had said too much. The hospital director had instructed


    that the patient in the hospital room was different, and the nurse had to take good care of the patient.


    Don¡¯t tell me their marriage isn¡¯t as beautiful as it seems.


    Josie was feeling downcast. ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°I think he went to take a call.¡±


    The nurse only packed the equipment and left after Josie¡¯s IV waspleted. Josie was momentarily


    lost in thought as shey on the hospital bed alone with a dull and lifeless expression.


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡± Two bodyguards stood at the door.


    Josie was startled. She looked to the side and suddenly saw Dexter walking in casually with his cell


    phone in his hands. He said, ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know why, but she started shivering when she saw him. Her eyes reddened, and she


    slowly vented her suppressed feelings. ¡°Dexter, I thought I was going to die. I really thought I would die


    when the car hit me.¡±


    Her trembling voice made Dexter quickly walk to her side. ¡°You¡¯re alright now.¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    The lingering fear came in waves. Josie looked up at him tearfully. ¡°I don¡¯t have Who wants to kill me?¡±


    any enemies.


    He pursed his lips, and his voice was deep. ¡°We¡¯re still investigating. The driver is a hoodlum. and has


    been detained. Someone must be inciting him behind the scenes.¡±


    Someone inciting him¡­ It must be premeditated. Josie didn¡¯t dare to think about how long someone


    had been watching her. She grabbed a corner of Dexter¡¯s shirt. ¡°I felt that someone had been following


    me for the past few days. Is it the same person? Can you ask people to check the surveince


    footage?¡±

 Chapter 140

    Chapter 140


    Chapter 140 The Ardon Family''s Rage


    She was in agony.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Dexter pulled her into his arms as she shivered. His hand stroked her hair gently. ¡°I¡¯ve


    been investigating, and we will have results in a few days. Just rest well, okay?¡±


    Josie buried her head in the man¡¯s warm embrace and smelled the clean aroma of detergent. on him.


    She slowly calmed down. ¡°I always thought that I wasn¡¯t afraid to die until the moment when I was hit. I


    finally felt the gap between life and death. Dexter, I don¡¯t want to die¡­¡±


    Her tears soaked his shirt, and it made Dexter freeze. The bitterness in him grew, and his expression


    was nasty.


    ¡°You won¡¯t die with me around.¡±


    After a moment, she said, ¡°¡­ What happened to the meeting? Did I mess it up?¡±


    with


    Dexter didn¡¯t let go. ¡°I said you won¡¯t mess it up. my support.¡±


    Warmth flooded into Josie¡¯s fearful heart. ¡°Does everyone have a bad impression of me?¡±


    ¡°If you want to make up for it, quickly gather your energy. There will be an online meeting


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    tomorrow.¡±


    When Josie heard she could make up for it, she finally stopped crying and pulled away from him.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Her face was still soaked with tears. Dexter took out a napkin and wiped her tears dry. ¡°Yes.¡± Josie was


    just about to say something happily when she suddenly noticed a figure standing at the door through


    the corner of her eye. Josie suddenly froze. ¡°Ms. Miller?¡±


    Ivy had documents in her hands. They didn¡¯t know how long she had been standing there. She had a


    dark and vague expression.


    Josie realized something was wrong and quickly pulled away from Dexter. His hands froze mid-air, and


    he lowered his gaze as he sat down. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Ivy nodded and walked in. She wanted to say something when she saw Josie on the bed but stopped.


    Dexter knew what lvy was thinking about. ¡°She¡¯s one of us. You can speak inly.¡±


    Ivy gritted her teeth. ¡°Leo¡¯s trouble has spread to Westin.¡±


    Dexter opened the files and nced at them. He was well aware of the situation. ¡°Where is


    he?¡±


    ¡°He was captured on the way to the airport, and he¡¯s been sent to trial. He doesn¡¯t know much. He


    signed the divorce papersst night.¡±


    ¡°What about Mrs. Ardon?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s also at the police station.¡±


    ¡°Ensure she¡¯s safe before this ends.¡±


    Josie leaned against her pillow and carefully sized up Ivy¡¯s expression as she discussed work matters.


    Ivy was surprised when she heard it. ¡°You¡¯re really ensuring her safety? Mr. Russell, think of the


    butterfly effect. What if she does something to harm us¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand a mother¡¯s heart. She won¡¯t.¡± Dexter put the documents back together


    grasp. as he glossed over them. It was as though victory was within his


    Ivy left, and the door shut. The hospital room was silent once again.


    Josieposed herself, feeling more rational, but her voice was still hoarse. ¡°You discussed


    something so important in front of me, Mr. Russell. Aren¡¯t you afraid that I will expose you?¡±


    He was slightly against the light, but his side profile seemed extremely gentle now. He smiled. ¡°Even if I


    allowed you to reveal it, would you dare to?¡±


    Josie was at a loss for words, and she seemed rather distressed. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that something will


    happen after Ms. Miller discovers my identity?¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t say anything else. The next day, Ivy brought Josie aptop so Josie could attend. the


    online meeting.


    When Dexter left with everyone else, he saw Josie exhale nervously out of the corner of his


    eye.


    ¡°How are the investigations going?¡± He held a cigarette in his mouth and wanted to light it, but he didn¡¯t


    bring a lighter. Ivy took one out of her bag and lit it for him.


    ¡°The Mercedes Benz was rented at a car rental shop. I¡¯ve investigated the culprit¡¯s identity, and he¡¯s not


    connected to anyone in Russell Group. I don¡¯t think someone in thepany did it.¡±

 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141


    Chapter 141 Grandpa Knows


    Dexter puffed on his cigarette and looked at the woman inside the room through the smoke.


    She seemed very nervous even though the meeting was online. As she spoke, she revealed an


    appropriate smile and apologized before she started her presentation.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t dug deep enough. Ask around and investigate if anyone has a grudge against Josie in the


    design department.¡± He looked to the side. ¡°I remember the new head doesn¡¯t. seem to like her much.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart sank. ¡°She¡­ is the head, after all. I don¡¯t think she needs to do such a thing.¡±


    ¡°People are greedy. Perhaps she felt dissatisfied that I made Josie the project¡¯s main designer.¡±


    ¡°Let me investigate her recent calls.¡± Ivy understood that there had to be a conclusion from the


    investigation.


    Dexter answered her indifferently without looking away from Josie. Ivy looked over and couldn¡¯t help


    herself. ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ If I may say something.¡±


    He answered, ¡°Mm.¡±


    ¡°Why did you choose Josie?¡± Ivy gritted her teeth and asked the question that had been on her mind for


    many days. She didn¡¯t feel like Dexter would really fall in love with Josie.


    Ash from Dexter¡¯s cigarette fell on the floor. It was as though the question came as no surprise to


    Dexter. He merely said, ¡°She¡¯s suitable.¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Ivy didn¡¯t ask what about Josie was suitable. It was already inappropriate for a personal assistant like


    her to ask about her boss¡¯ private affairs. His answer made her rx slightly. Thankfully, Dexter just


    thought that Josie was suitable. He wasn¡¯t in love with her.


    Ivy didn¡¯t say anything for a long time. Dexter put out his cigarette. ¡°Is there anything else?¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯ll be leaving, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie¡¯s design was sessfully approved in the meeting. She closed theptop happily and saw him


    enter the room. She smiled and asked him, ¡°You didn¡¯t secretly manipte this, did you?¡±


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t


    you


    confident in your work?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. Do you know what one of the leadersplimented me?¡± Josie wanted tough,


    but it tugged on one of the bruises on her face. She grimaI


    She looked like a child seeking praise after acing a test.


    Dexterughed lightly. ¡°Do you want to rest in the hospital or go home?¡±


    Josie thought about it earnestly. ¡°Do people at thepany know I was in an ident?¡±


    ¡°Not only do they know, but they also know that I stepped in to settle the matter. You¡¯re remarkable, Ms.


    Warren.¡±


    She could already imagine the rumors that were going around. ¡°Oh no. They¡¯re not spreading rumors


    about us, are they?¡± More importantly, the rumor was true. She didn¡¯t want to face it. ¡°I think I want to


    go home. It¡¯s boring to stay in the hospital.¡±


    At this time, she suddenly came to her senses. ¡°But what about arm, no one will massage him.¡±


    my


    dad? With my fractured


    ¡°There¡¯s the care worker,¡± Dexter said. ¡°I also told Calvin to let Justin out for these few days so he can


    take care of your dad.


    That¡¯s right, there¡¯s Justin. Josie rxed. Perhaps it will be more effective when Justin personally


    repents at Dad¡¯s bed.


    ¡°By the way.¡± Josie suddenly thought of something. ¡°Dexter, has my mom¡­ looked for you?¡±


    Her mom had threatened to look for Dexter back at the beauty salon. There had been no news in the


    past few days. Was Mom just being arrogant?


    Dexter looked away and answered indifferently, ¡°No.¡±


    That¡¯s good.


    Josie was discharged the next day and returned to Mason Garden. On the way back, Dexter suddenly


    received a call. ¡°Dex, what happened? Was Jo in an ident?¡±


    Henry¡¯s voice was loud. Dexter put his cell phone further away and furrowed his brows. ¡°How did you


    know, Grandpa?¡±


    Josie raised her head, perplexed.


    ¡°The Late Wavery News reported on it. They said that an ident happened at Russell Group¡¯s


    entrance and even included photos!¡±

 Chapter 142

    Chapter 142


    Chapter 142 Marilyn Visiting


    ¡°When I saw the photos, I thought, isn¡¯t this Jo? It gave me a fright. Why didn¡¯t you tell me?!¡±


    Old Mr. Russell chided Dexter angrily. He was about to go mad.


    Dexter¡¯s head hurt. He never expected this to go on the news. He exined patiently, ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s not


    a big deal. Jo¡¯s arm fractured, and she¡¯s been discharged. Don¡¯t worry. Take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s absolutely disgraceful! She¡¯s your wife. You¡¯re glossing over it even after she got into something


    as serious as an ident. Is a fracture no big deal? You can find out after I break your legs!¡± Old Mr.


    Russell grew furious, and he almost lost his breath. ¡°Give the phone to Jo. I want to talk to her!¡±


    Dexter signaled the woman beside him with a nce. She couldn¡¯t hold the cell phone, so he put it next


    to her without moving.


    ¡°Are you alright, Jo? You can be honest with me.¡± Old Mr. Russell¡¯s voicepletely changed. It was


    very gentle.


    Josie bit the bullet and answered, ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s no big deal. The newspapers are spouting nonsense.


    Don¡¯t believe them.¡±


    ¡°You only suffered a fracture?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯ve been discharged, and I¡¯m now going home to recuperate.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Old Mr. Russell¡¯s voice suddenly increased in volume. ¡°Dexter Russell.¡±


    Dexter answered nonchntly, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°A fracture isn¡¯t just a small matter. I¡¯ve instructed Marilyn to go to Mason Garden to care for Jo. She


    should be there now. Watch out.¡±


    When Josie heard it, she choked on her water and tried her best to keep from coughing.


    Dexter wrinkled his brows. ¡°Why did you go through great pains to ask Marilyn toe? It¡¯s not like


    there aren¡¯t servants in Mason Garden.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell sneered. ¡°So what? Marilyn has taken care of me for years and is very attentive. I will


    only be reassured if she takes care of Jo.¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡±


    Unlock seeded


    are many servants in Russell Mansion. I can cope. Jo¡¯s health is crucial now. She¡¯s the


    most important,¡± Old Mr. Russell said erratically before immediately ending the call.


    Dexter massaged his temples. He sneered. ¡°Grandpa treats you so well.¡±


    Josie was overwhelmed and frantic. ¡°What should we do? If Marilyn stays in Mason Garden, we can¡¯t


    hide it.¡±


    Marilyn was different from the servants in Mason Garden. She thought that the two had a genuine


    rtionship and marriage.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Dexter was calm when faced with her panic. ¡°We can only act as a true couple.¡±


    ¡°Act? How are we going to act?¡± Josie was annoyed yet amused. The car stopped at the entrance of


    Mason Garden, and a row of servants stood outside, with Marilyn in the lead. She smiled at them.


    ¡°Go down and stall. I will instruct the servants to move your belongings into the master bedroom.¡±


    ¡°Master¡­ bedroom?¡± He forced Josie out of the car. Before she could ask further, she was in front of


    Marilyn.


    ¡°You¡¯re here, Marilyn.¡± Dexter was respectful to her.


    Marilyn only cared about Josie. She was taken aback when she saw Josie. ¡°Oh my god, it¡¯s so serious.


    Come in, quick, Jo. Have a seat.¡±


    Josie gulped and forced out a smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for troubling you, Marilyn. Um¡­ These are the


    instructions from the doctor. Please take a look at them.¡±


    The two entered the vi, and Dexter instructed the remaining servants calmly. ¡°Move Mrs. Russell¡¯s


    belongings into my room. Do it quickly.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    On the other end, Josie led Marilyn into the kitchen. When Josie saw the servants bustling upstairs,


    she said, ¡°Marilyn, I like taking herbal tonics. Can you please make me some?¡±


    ¡°I need good herbs to make herbal tonics. I have to go and buy them. Wait for me, Jo.¡± After that,


    Marilyn wanted to leave.

 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143


    Chapter 143 My Condolences


    Josie stopped Marilyn. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m not in a rush. I want to have some warm water. Could you heat up some


    water for me?¡±


    Marilyn didn¡¯t quite understand. ¡°Alright. Please wait a moment.¡±


    While waiting for the water to be warmed, the two looked at each other in the kitchen. Marilyn saw that


    Josie was sweating, so Marilyn immediately said, ¡°The kitchen is hot. Wait


    outside.¡±


    ¡­ It¡¯s alright. It doesn¡¯t matter. I haven¡¯t seen you in a long time, so I want to talk to you.¡± Josie


    immediately waved her hands. ¡°How is Grandpa recently?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s doing well. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡­ That¡¯s good¡­¡±


    Once the water was warmed, Marilyn swiftly poured it into a ss for Josie. ¡°Take your time. I have to


    go out and buy ingredients. Wait for me. I¡¯ll make sure you eat well tonight.¡±


    Josie was at her wit¡¯s end. While Marilyn was undoing her apron, Josie waved frantically at Dexter, who


    was in the living room, gesturing for his help.


    Thetter walked over casually and stood at the entrance of the kitchen. ¡°It¡¯s still hot. There¡¯s time to go


    tomorrow. Don¡¯t y favorites. I haven¡¯t eaten your pudding in a while. Can I eat it today?¡±


    Marilyn was startled when she heard it. She carefully sized up Dexter¡¯s expression and stuttered


    slightly. ¡°Yes¡­ Yes. I¡¯ll make it now.¡±


    Josie realized they were safe and immediately said, ¡°I¡¯ll have to learn from you.¡±


    While Marilyn was busy in the kitchen, the servants were almost done moving upstairs. Josie no longer


    panicked and secretly slipped out to sit beside Dexter. She asked quietly, ¡°Why was Marilyn so agitated


    when you said you wanted to eat pudding?¡±


    Dexter was replying to emails on hisptop and didn¡¯t look up. ¡°I haven¡¯t eaten it for many years.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°Why?¡± She asked subconsciously.


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer her. Josie realized there must have been some kind of story, so she kept quiet,


    embarrassed. When she thought he wouldn¡¯t say anything, she heard his voice. ¡°I haven¡¯t eaten it


    since my mother left.¡±


    previously guessed that Dexter¡¯s mother was no longer around. She never thought that it was really the


    case.


    She carefully sized up his tense side profile and apologized. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ My condolences.¡±


    Dexter paused as he was typing. His lips curled into a sneer. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    After that, Marilyn oversaw everything in Mason Garden, especially when Josie had to take her


    medicine. Marilyn was sent by Old Mr. Russell, so no one dared to stop her.


    In the master bedroom, the servants had packed everything neatly. It really seemed like the two were


    living together.


    Marilyn drew a bath in the bathroom. ¡°Go in, Jo.¡±


    Josie nodded, and Mrs. Carroll followed her into the bathroom, but Marilyn stopped thetter. ¡°Why are


    you going in, Julie?¡±


    ¡°To help me take a bath.¡±


    ¡°To help Mrs. Russell take a bath.¡±


    Josie and Mrs. Carroll answered in unison.


    ¡°Why are you helping her with her bath?¡± Marilyn had a disdainful expression. ¡°Dex can help


    with such an intimate act.¡±


    At the side, Dexter raised his brows while Josie was bbergasted. ¡°I¡­ I¡­ don¡¯t think it¡¯s very


    convenient.¡±


    Marilyn teased her, ¡°You two are husband and wife. Don¡¯t be shy. It¡¯s normal.¡±


    She waved everyone out as she spoke. ¡°Everyone else can leave. Which husband wouldn¡¯t help their


    injured wife take a shower?¡±


    ¡°Ah! Mrs. Carroll! Don¡¯t leave!¡± Josie cried out in despair.


    Mrs. Carroll shut the door out of consideration.


    Half of Josie¡¯s face was flushed. She didn¡¯t want to care about anything else as she sat down. ¡°I¡¯m not


    going to take a shower.¡±


    She loathed the culprit at that moment. If he hadn¡¯t hit her, she wouldn¡¯t be at a stage where Dexter


    had to help her take a bath. She could have retained her innocence!


    Dexter crossed his arms and sized up the shy person before him. ¡°Why are you nervous?¡±

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144


    Chapter 144 Help Her Take a Bath


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious? You¡¯re a man, and you¡¯ll take advantage of me. How can I not be nervous?¡± Josie¡¯s


    neck was flushed as she raised her head and cried out.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t seen your body.¡± Dexterughed lightly. ¡°It¡¯s so-so.¡±


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    ¡°You!¡± Josie pointed at him but couldn¡¯t say anything for a long while. After that, she looked down at her


    chest. ¡°I¡­ I have a good figure. Don¡¯t underestimate me.¡±


    Dexter said nothing. He turned and went into his wardrobe.


    Josie panicked. She hugged herself and cried out, ¡°I won¡¯t yield. Don¡¯t think of making me


    compromise.¡±


    Dexter came out with a ck tie shortly and walked to her. ¡°I¡¯ll give you two choices. I¡¯ll cover my eyes,


    or you don¡¯t have to bathe.¡±


    Josie was surprised. She could ept it if he covered his eyes. ¡°But¡­ But you might touch¡±


    somewhere sensitive.¡±


    Dexter sneered. ¡°It¡¯s up to you if you want to bathe.¡±


    ¡°No¡­.¡± Josie felt awkward. She hadn¡¯t taken a bath for the whole day, and she felt ufortable. ¡°I¡¯ll


    take a bath.¡±


    She tried covering her eyes with the tie to test its thickness. When she confirmed that she couldn¡¯t see


    anything with the ck tie around her eyes, she was reassured and allowed. Dexter to walk into the


    bathroom.


    She took off her clothes. Under the light, it was as though the woman¡¯s fair skin was glowing. She had


    a tall and full figure.


    She carefully sized Dexter up. He didn¡¯t have any expression. He seemed more solemn with the tie


    around his eyes.


    ¡°When is Marilyn leaving¡­¡± Josie stepped into the bathtub. She couldn¡¯t help but sigh when she came


    into contact with the warm water.


    Dexter raised his hands to support her. ¡°It should be after your arm heals.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean you¡¯ll have to help me shower daily?¡± Josie cried out in surprise.


    ¡°Do you think I like doing this?¡± Dexter said, annoyed, as he helped to wet her hair and rub


    Although they lived together, they used different brands of shampoos. Josie liked the fragrance of his


    shampoo. She shut her eyes and enjoyed herself as he massaged shampoo. into her hair. ¡°Mr. Russell,


    if you don¡¯t want to operate your business anymore in the future, you can change careers and go into


    the hairstyling industry.¡±


    Dexterughed in his rage. This woman always makes such remarks after taking advantage of me.


    ¡°Make anotherment, and I¡¯ll break your other arm. Good thingse in pairs, after all.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t afraid. Sheughed as she said, ¡°You would have to help me shower for much longer.


    You¡¯ll be getting the short end of the stick.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re pretty good at finding the silver lining.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was slow. ¡°If I remove the tie now, you¡¯ll


    get the short end of the stick.¡±


    For a moment, the bathroom was silent. Josie immediately stopped talking and didn¡¯t dare to say


    anything else.


    After washing her hair, she cleaned wherever she could by herself and only asked Dexter for help with


    areas she couldn¡¯t manage. He would only move in the direction she asked and didn¡¯t try anything


    funny. However, the strange noises from the bath gel on her skin made. her flush.


    When she looked at Dexter, who was cleaning her ankles, he was still expressionless.


    Josie suddenly thought of something, and her other leg reached out of the bathtub and sshed him


    with water. ¡°Mr. Russell, I heard rich people have unique desires when doing. the deed. Do you?¡±


    Dexter was soaked by her leg moving around. He grabbed her leg.


    ¡°What deed?¡±


    Josie felt embarrassed, ¡°Like¡­ those on the bed.¡±


    ¡°What kind of unique desires?¡±


    Josie wanted to pull her leg back but to no avail. She couldn¡¯t move it. He¡¯s feigning ignorance.


    ¡°Like¡­ Men in high positions like to be involved in bondage y, like, S, um, M¡­¡± She sized up


    Dexter¡¯s expression as she said it and emphasized the two letters.


    Dexter let go of her leg, and he was sshed with more water. ¡°I don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°How self-restrained¡­,¡± she mumbled, ¡°but you don¡¯t seem like those people.¡±

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145


    Chapter 145 Letting the Cat Out of the Bag


    Dexter took out a towel to wipe his hands. ¡°If you continue talking nonsense, you can wear your clothes


    yourself.¡±


    At that moment, he was against the light and seemed to glow. On top of being soaked, the ck tie


    covering his eyes made him appear restrained and uncontroble.


    Josiey in the bathtub and sized him up freely while he hadn¡¯t removed the tie around his


    eyes.


    How will it feel to make someone so self-disciplined misbehave? Her pulse quickened just by thinking


    about it.


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    ¡°Josie?¡± He furrowed his brows when he heard no response.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. Josie stepped out of the bathtub, and the water in it rippled. She wiped herself dry. with a


    towel before sitting on one side and putting on her pajamas with difficulty. It took some effort for her to


    put on her clothes. She couldn¡¯t fasten the buttons on her back with one hand.


    She looked up, aggrieved. Her voice was deliberately alluring. ¡°Dexter, I can¡¯t fasten it.¡±


    He blurted out, ¡°What¡­¡±


    At the next moment, Josie walked to him. She held hisrge, veiny hand and put it on her fair and


    smooth shoulder before slowly sliding it down. ¡°My pajamas. What did you think?¡±


    Behind her, the man¡¯s breath instantly quickened, and his hands grew cold. He paused. ¡°How am I


    going to button it with my eyes close? I¡¯ll get Marilyn.¡±


    Josie suddenly held his hands tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t. You¡¯ve already helped me with my ask for help to fasten


    my buttons, won¡¯t you be letting the cat out of the bag?¡±


    Dexter said nothing. He could smell Josie¡¯s fragrance.


    bath. If you


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a rush. Take your time.¡± Josie¡¯s back was facing him, and her silhouette moved before him.


    She had a mischievous smile. Can someone so self-restrained misbehave? She wanted to see Dexter


    like that.


    He had never put on clothes for a woman before, and he didn¡¯t know how the buttons on her back were


    designed. He could only try his best. He asionally touched her soft back, and Josie cried out


    seductively. ¡°To the left. No, the right. To the right. Dexter, why aren¡¯t you doing it properly?¡±


    Unlock seeded


    ¡°Know your limits, Josie Warren. His voice was hoarse. He was deliberately restraining himself.


    The woman had the nerve to continue. She turned and bravely provoked him. ¡°Why can¡¯t you button


    them? Why don¡¯t you take off the tie?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s forehead suddenly twitched. He pursed his thin lips tightly and lifted his hands to remove the


    tie. He didn¡¯t have an innocent expression on his face.


    Josie was like a deer trapped in headlights. She covered herself and jumped aside. ¡°Oh my god! Why


    did you really do it?¡± She never thought Dexter would really dare to do it!


    Dexter¡¯s initial anger dissipated when he saw her like that. He walked forward while holding his tic.


    What are you going to do? I¡¯m going to scream!¡±


    He walked behind her and buttoned her pajamas. He wasn¡¯t in a rush to leave. He slowly leaned close


    to her ears and said softly, ¡°You really have the nerve to try and seduce me. Why don¡¯t you go to


    Heaven on Earth and ask Calvin for some tips? He can teach you a thing or


    two.¡±


    She felt the man¡¯s breath in her ears, and Josie felt confused. Her face flushed. ¡°I was kidding¡­¡±


    At that moment, she only wore her thin pajamas. Her neck was exposed, and her long wet. hair draped


    over her shoulders. Water from her hair dripped onto the floor. She was indescribably alluring and


    enticing.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes reddened slightly. He reached out and put his hands around her lower abdomen before


    he pulled her into his arms. Their new desire escted rapidly at that


    moment.


    She was trembling, and Dexterughed silently. He looked down slightly and saw her bosom. pressed


    against him. ¡°Are you afraid?¡±


    The man had an overpowering demeanor, and Josie realized she couldn¡¯t resist him. She wanted to


    say she wasn¡¯t afraid but couldn¡¯t speak.

 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146


    Chapter 146 Blow Drying Hair


    Both their hips were tightly pressed against each other. Dexter held Josie¡¯s face, and she was forced to


    look up.


    She shut her eyes tightly and heard him say, ¡°Have you done it before?¡±


    She didn¡¯t say anything as she shook her head. After that, he sneered.


    Josie turned around and faced him after being taunted. She used one hand to lift his well- defined face


    and said alluringly, ¡°You¡¯re so handsome. I¡¯ll have a good time.¡±


    The desire in Dexter¡¯s eyes increased, and the smile on the corners of his lips vanished.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her smile deepened. ¡°Do you want to kiss me?¡± Her soft fingers fell on his thin lips, and she caressed


    them. ¡°I want to kiss you.¡±


    His grip around her waist tightened, but his face subconsciously avoided her touch.


    Josie touched his face again. She stood on tiptoe and said in his ear, ¡°Just likest time.¡±


    She could clearly see Dexter¡¯s gaze deepening. His desire was burning within him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think anyone will disturb us this time.¡±


    His breathing slowed down. ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t dare to do it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart was beating furiously. She was afraid. Dexter could do anything, but if she stopped now, it


    wouldn¡¯t be easy to seduce Dexter the next time.


    She couldn¡¯t give up now.


    She leaned close to his lips and said softly, ¡°You have great kissing skills, Mr. Russell. My legs went


    weak from our kissst time.¡±


    Dexter smelled the woman¡¯s sweet scent. He let her kiss him while the veins on his hand protruded.


    This continued momentarily until she suddenly stuck out her tongue and licked. his lips. The force


    around her waist increased in a split second while she backed away. He bent down, and his lips parted


    as he kissed her back.


    It was as though Josie had been electrocuted. She subconsciously pushed him. away forcefully, and


    her breathing was rough. She put one finger up and put it against his lips. ¡°My hair isn¡¯t dry yet. If it


    drapes around me, I¡¯ll catch a cold. Help me dry my hair, okay?¡± After that, she took out a hairdryer and


    handed it to him.


    Unlock seeded


    slightly. Actually, she wasn¡¯t sure if De


    understood him. He wouldn¡¯t stop if he didn¡¯t get his way.


    Dexter looked up at her, and the lust dissipated slightly after a long time. He was irritated, but he


    ultimately took the hairdryer from her.


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief. Her arms were covered in cold sweat.


    Dexter was very gentle when he blow-dried her hair. He intentionally adjusted it to warm air. She had


    thick hair, and he took some time to blow dry her hair. Her ck hair drifted, and her fair back was


    faintly noticeable.


    Josie shut her eyes. She waspletely rxed and enjoyed herself. She was content that the head


    of Russell Group had helped her bathe and blow dry her hair. Furthermore, he had pretty good skills.


    ¡°Dexter, have you ever helped other women blow dry their hair?¡±


    His voice wasn¡¯t loud amid the noise of the hairdryer. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Josie chuckled. He must still be annoyed by my reaction just now.


    Soon, her hair was dry. Dexter put a bathrobe around her and wrapped her in it tightly. He let go of her


    and said, ¡°Leave.¡±


    It was as though Josie had been set free, but she subconsciously asked, ¡°Why?¡±


    Dexterughed in a rage. ¡°It¡¯s my turn to shower. Or do you want to take a bath wi again?¡±


    Upon hearing it, Josie quickly ran out but shut the door out of consideration.


    He stood on the spot and closed his eyes. His temples were twitching. She¡¯s such a minx. She likes to


    seduce me but doesn¡¯t like to take responsibility.


    Josiey on the bed and smelled Dexter¡¯s scent.


    It was hard for her to resist the thrill just now. For a moment, she thought it was really going to happen.


    The two had been very close, and she could clearly feel the change in Dexter¡¯s body. She couldn¡¯t


    ignore it. The warmth had made her shudder uncontrobly.

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147


    Chapter 147 The True Culprit Emerges.


    When the bathroom door opened again, Josie had fallen asleep.


    She slept in the corner of the bed, and one of her hands held tightly to the corner of the covers. She


    looked worried.


    Dexter sighed in exasperation. He subconsciously pushed her to the middle of the bed before tucking


    her in.


    She slept well that night.


    Josie hadn¡¯t known how to deal with sleeping in the same bed as Dexter again, but she fell asleep


    unknowingly. She woke up and realized that the bed was empty. Only the indentations on the bed and


    the residual warmth indicated to her that he had slept there.


    When she looked at the time, it was ten o¡¯clock.


    After Josie washed up, she went downstairs. Marilyn was bustling in the kitchen. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Marilyn. I


    overslept.¡±


    Marilyn smiled. ¡°You¡¯re injured. It¡¯s only natural for you to sleep in.¡±


    The herbal tonic Marilyn brewed today included wolfsbane and dandelion, but it wasn¡¯t bitter. Marilyn


    had excellent skills, and Josie drank it happily. ¡°Please make more for me next time. I want to take


    some to the hospital for my dad.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Can your father drink it?¡±


    ¡°I can fill a syringe with the herbal tonic, then feed it to him through his gastric tube.¡±


    ¡°¡­ It must be tough.¡± Marilyn looked at Josie, distressed. Marilyn sighed. ¡°It¡¯s alright. With Dex around,


    everything will be alright in the future. Is heing back for dinner?¡±


    Josie choked on the herbal tonic. ¡°He¡­¡± Is heing back? ¡°He should be.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Marilyn was displeased. ¡°Doesn¡¯t he usually tell you if he¡¯sing back?¡±


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean that. Sometimes Dexter is busy, and there are unexpected situations. I can¡¯t say


    precisely.¡±


    Marilyn nodded, confused. ¡°Dex has no other way. Don¡¯t me him.¡±


    o me him?


    Dexter seemed busy for the next few days. He left the house early and returnedte at night.


    Sometimes, he would just stay at the office.


    Josie was home alone. Other than chatting with Mrs. Carroll and Marilyn, she would y games with


    one hand. She was bored out of her mind.


    She had nothing to do, so she opened her chat with Dexter. She typed one letter at a time. What are


    you doing, Mr. Russell?¡¯


    After she sent the message, she received no reply for a long time. She only saw Dexter¡¯s text in the


    evening after her afternoon nap. I just finished a meeting. Why?¡±


    Josie rubbed her eyes and replied. I¡¯m bored. I¡¯m so bored. Is there information about what happened


    to me?¡¯


    This time, Dexter replied quickly. ¡®Almost. The person didn¡¯t really want to kill you. wanted you to miss


    the meeting. Think about it. Who doesn¡¯t want your design to be approved in the design department?¡¯This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    He just


    His message was enlightening. Josie furrowed her brows tightly and quickly came up with an answer.


    ¡®ire.¡¯


    Dexter replied. ¡®I¡¯lle and pick you up at night.¡±


    But Josie didn¡¯t understand. ire was already the head of the design department. Why would she do


    such a thing? If anything had gone wrong, ire would have been responsible!


    She waited anxiously until the sky turned dark. Dexter¡¯s car stopped at the entrance of Mason Garden,


    and she quickly entered the car, saying, ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    Her hurried words stopped abruptly because she suddenly realized another person was in the big car.


    Ivy sat at the side with a stiff expression. ¡°Ms. Warren.¡±


    Dexter indicated calmly for Josie to sit down.


    Ivy immediately passed Josie some information. When Dexter signaled Ivy, she started exining. ¡°We


    discovered that ire called someone outstation in her recent call log. The telephone card was


    discarded, but we traced it to the hoodlum when we followed the IP address. This shouldn¡¯t be a


    coincidence.¡±


    Josie flipped through the printed call log.


    Ivy added, ¡°We can¡¯tpletely confirm it¡¯s her. Perhaps it¡¯s just a coincidence.¡±

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148


    Chapter 148 Don''t me This on Me


    Such a thing couldn¡¯t be a coincidence. Josie was sure of it.


    The scenery outside the window kept changing. ¡°Where are we going now?¡±


    ¡°ire has a social gathering at Heaven on Earth today. We¡¯re going there now.¡± Ivy sized up Dexter¡¯s


    expression and realized his gaze fell on Josie from the start until the end. ¡°Mr. Russell, I have other


    things to do. See if¡­¡±


    Dexter instructed the driver to stop, and Ivy exited the vehicle. She walked across the road to hail a


    cab. It seemed like Ivy was heading in the opposite direction.


    When Ivy left, Josie breathed a sigh of relief. A thoughtful smile was disyed at the corners of her


    mouth. ¡°Ms. Miller is really like you. I¡¯m slightly intimidated by her.¡±


    Dexter caught a strand of her hair and yed with it. ¡°Punishment or revenge. You decide.¡±


    He was referring to ire. Josie leaned back in her seat and pondered for a moment. ¡°Will you fire


    her?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°Then, I choose revenge. She revealed a spiteful smile. ¡°After all, I didn¡¯t die. After being fired from


    Russell Group, she won¡¯t have a foothold in the industry. This would be more painful than a


    punishment.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was fixed on her. ¡°Messing around with her. You¡¯re pretty good.¡±


    When they arrived at Heaven on Earth. Dexter¡¯s bodyguards were already keeping watch there. They


    seem to have been arranged beforehand. Two bodyguards went with him while he instructed the rest to


    follow Josie.


    He led her to a booth, and they sat there awhile. He leaned close to her and asked, ¡°Will you be okay


    alone?¡±


    Josieughed lightly. ¡°Why? Do you want to watch two women fighting?¡±


    Dexter wasn¡¯t interested and seemed to have other things to do. He rose and left, going to a private


    room upstairs.


    Josie waited on the spot for a while before she saw ireing in with a bag, dressed scantily. She


    ran straight to Josie. ¡°Mr. Barrett, I¡¯mte¡­¡±


    Unlock seeded


    and backed away in fright when she saw Jose You Josie


    Josie waved her uninjured hand and chuckled. ¡°You seem very disappointed to see me, Ms. Wilcher.


    Did you think that I was dead?¡±


    ire¡¯s face paled. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t?¡± Josie raised a winess and slowly walked to ire. ¡°Then why are you afraid to see


    me?¡±


    ire already had a guilty conscience and retreated when faced with Josie¡¯s demeanor. ¡°I was just


    surprised. Don¡¯t you have a fracture? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I do. My arm is fractured.¡± She waved her hand in the cast and abruptly spoke louder. ¡°Do you know


    that I suffered a fracture? I almost died. ire Wilcher! Do you think my life is a game?!¡±


    The music was louder than Josie¡¯s voice, but ire understood Josie. Her back was against the wall,


    and she was terrified. She couldn¡¯t stand upright because her legs were going weak. ¡°¡­ What! What


    does it have to do with me?! Don¡¯t me this on me!¡±


    Josie took out a stack of paper from her bag. It was ire¡¯s call log. ¡°Do you see this?¡±


    ire already had a guilty conscience and turned incoherent when she saw it. ¡°This isn¡¯t mine. I¡¯ve


    never made this call!¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°I never said which call. Why are you defending yourself?¡±


    ¡°None of these calls are mine. Don¡¯t nder me!¡± ire was anxious after being tricked.


    ¡°Oh. Why don¡¯t you show me your cell phone? Do you dare to do so?¡±


    ire was wary and didn¡¯t dare to look Josie in the eye. ¡°Why should I let you look at my phone? Stop


    making assumptions, Josie Warren. You were just unlucky. Don¡¯t make such nderous remarks!¡±

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149


    Chapter 149 Taking Revenge


    ¡°Whatever,¡± Josie said coldly as she stood steadily. She couldn¡¯t be bothered to talk to ire further.


    Josie poured her wine on ire, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t think you can step all over me. You broke my arm, so I


    will make you pay twofold.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± ire shrieked loudly and red at Josie. ¡°You have the nerve to pour wine on me, Josie


    Warren!¡±


    As ire spoke, she rolled up her sleeves and wanted to shove Josie and hit her. Before ire could


    touch Josie, a few bodyguards rushed to stop ire. They pinned her to the floor. ¡°You


    can try!¡±


    ire cried out in pain after being kicked. ¡°You came prepared, you despicable wench!¡±


    These burly bodyguards were ruthless. Josie watched from the back and said slowly, ¡°I initially thought


    that you would be satisfied after bing the head of the design. department. I never imagined that


    you were still dissatisfied. Are you jealous that I¡¯m more capable than you? You¡¯re in huge trouble now.


    Don¡¯t think you can keep your job.¡±


    irey on the floor, paralyzed. Her face turned scarlet, and she covered her stomach in pain. Her


    tears were flowing.


    ¡°Enjoy my gift.¡± Josie smiled. Before she left, she said, ¡°I don¡¯t ask for much. Just break both.


    her arms.¡±


    Josie had always had a bad temper since she was young. She wouldn¡¯t make trouble, but she would


    repay it twofold if someone offended her. She had done so since she was young, so she was rarely


    bullied.


    Josie calmed down after getting her revenge. She was in a better mood than she had been for the past


    few days. Just as she was headed to the washroom, she bumped into a familiar face while turning a


    corner.


    The man wore a cashmere vest and a leather belt. He was tall, neat, and had a flirty expression as he


    stared at her.


    She was taken aback. ¡°¡­ Mr. Carter?¡±


    D*mn it, why is Arnold here?


    Josie didn¡¯t know how much he had witnessed. He nodded at her andughed lightly. ¡°What are you


    afraid of, Ms. Warren? Where was the courage you showed just now?¡±


    owling in griet. should have killed you!


    Unlock seeded


    Josie forced herself to stand upright. ¡°She harassed me first. Is there anything wrong with me repaying


    the favor?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°Then why are you teasing me, Mr. Carter?¡±


    He had a striking appearance. It was clear that he was an experienced regr. The beautiful girls who


    walked by peeked at him one after another.


    ¡°I was justplimenting how capable you are, Ms. Warren. It seems like most of Dexter¡¯s feelings for


    you are well-deserved.¡± Arnold was confident.


    Josie forced herself to calm down and answered, ¡°It¡¯s not. I don¡¯t know how you came up with


    that, Mr. Carter.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen those bodyguards. They look familiar.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze darkened. She never thought something like this would ur.


    ¡°Mr. Russell is kind, so he lent them to me.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t believe her. ¡°Have a cup of tea with me, Ms. Warren?¡±


    She had no choice at this point.


    Josie felt that Arnold was very sly. He seemed to be making small talk with her, but he also implied


    other things simultaneously. His emotions changed freely, unlike Dexter, who was cold and indifferent


    from the start until the end.


    In arge private room upstairs, Arnold took out a tea set and skillfully brewed a pot of tea. He asked


    casually, ¡°Do you drink Earl Grey tea?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t quite like drinking tea. I can¡¯t fall asleep at night.¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    He heard it but ignored her. He was focused on pouring the tea.


    ¡°I saw the photos in The Late Wavery News. I pitied you when I saw pictures of you lying in a pool of


    blood. If I were Dexter, I would also make the other party pay.¡±


    Josie was suspicious. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Arnold suddenly understood something. ¡°Don¡¯t you know yet? Dexter broke the legs of the driver who


    hit you. The man can never drive again.¡±

 Chapter 150

    Chapter 150


    Chapter 150 Cold-Blooded and Ruthless


    Josie didn¡¯t know. She thought that getting her revenge on ire was enough.


    She pretended to stay calm. ¡°It¡¯s only natural. I would do the same if I were in Dexter¡¯s shoes.¡±


    Arnold revealed an admiring smile. ¡°I told you how men can fall prey to beautiful women. previously.


    This time, I¡¯m going to tell you how.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re devious, Mr. Carter.¡± Josie sighed and waved her injured arm. ¡°It¡¯s a shame I¡¯m not the main


    female character in your stories. I¡¯m expendable, at best.¡±


    ¡°Have


    you heard of people carrying out their schemes behind a fa?ade?¡±


    Josie kept quiet.


    ¡°It¡¯s what you two are doing.¡± Arnold poured her a cup of tea.


    She stared at the ripples on the tea¡¯s surface. ¡°Mr. Carter, I¡¯m really not who you¡¯re looking for. I was


    stirred by what you saidst time, and I tried it, but Mr. Russell was aloof. He won¡¯t be moved by me.


    Why don¡¯t we just give up?¡±


    It was as though Arnold didn¡¯t hear what she said. ¡°You say I¡¯m devious, but I¡¯m not as meticulous as


    Mr. Russell. He pulled the rug from under the Ardon family, throwing the Carter Group into chaos. He¡¯s


    so capable.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Josie understood. The Ardon family protected Landon and Martin, which meant they also


    shielded Arnold, but Dexter was merciless. It could be said he had hit two birds with one


    stone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. It¡¯s just thew of the jungle in the world, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Just like the woman who was beaten up? The only reason she¡¯s weak and you¡¯re strong is because


    you have someone supporting you behind the scenes while she doesn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°She schemed against me first!¡± Josie blurted out.


    Arnold looked at her silently. ¡°Are you admitting it?¡±


    She finally understood what he meant, and she gulped. ¡°No matter what, I¡¯ve worked in Russell Group


    for three years. I can¡¯t betray my boss. Mr. Carter, I can¡¯t ept two sries.¡±


    ¡°What if I tell you Dexter is cold-blooded, ruthless, and selfish?¡± Arnold sputtered, and the smile in the


    corner of his mouth had vanished entirely.


    Unlock seeded


    opene


    ned her mouth when he raised his han


    door. The noise outside was suddenly heard, including voices from the room next door.


    There were faint voices. ¡°Mr. Russell! L-treat you as my brother, but you ruined my family! Why did you


    do that?!¡±


    The man¡¯s voice was mournful and pained. The despair in his voice was piercing. Josie¡¯s heart sank.


    It¡¯s Leo.


    It turned out that Dexter was in the private room next door.


    His voice wasn¡¯t loud, but Josie could hear him say, ¡°Get out.¡± There was none of the so-called


    brotherly affection.


    Leo didn¡¯t leave. He cried out despairingly. ¡°I thought you hade to wish me on my birthday. You


    even gave me a car, and I was thrilled. I didn¡¯t think you had anything to do with it when the police took


    me away. But I never thought you were using me to destroy my father! Mr. Russell! Do you know how


    much I have worshipped you since I was young? You were my role model!¡±


    The private room was quiet. Dexter said nothing, and no one else dared to say anything.


    ¡°You¡¯re so capable that you sent the Ardon family to prison. No¡­ It was me. I harmed my dad and the


    Ardon family¡­ What do you want me to do? I¡¯ve failed everyone. I don¡¯t have any other family on this


    earth!¡± Leo was crying and wailing. ¡°Dexter Russell! You¡¯re the devil!¡±


    After that, he seemed to pick up something and suddenly threw it. There was a crash.


    Flustered voices were heard after that. ¡°Mr. Russell! Are you alright?¡±


    Josie felt rmed and subconsciously wanted to stand up.


    Arnold nced at her, and she could only sit down.

 Chapter 151

    Chapter 151


    Chapter 151 Suffering in Silence


    Arnold asked her, ¡°Why? Do you want to take a look?¡±


    Josie opened her mouth. Actually, she wasn¡¯t sure if she could bear to witness such a scene.


    Furthermore, she couldn¡¯t show that she cared too much about Dexter, so she shook her head.


    The room next door was still noisy. It seemed like someone wanted to take Leo away, but he was


    struggling loudly. Suddenly, there was a thump. It was the sound of someone kneeling on the floor.


    Leo was crying. ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ This is myst time begging. Please save my dad and the Ardon family.¡±


    Josie shut her eyes. She understood Leo¡¯s feelings. He had his elders to protect him and lived an easy,


    luxurious, and extravagant life since he was young. He naturally felt that he was excellent. It must have


    been a big blow to his pride now that his life had fallen apart, and he was kneeling to beg Dexter.


    Arnold held the teacup in his hands and smiled thoughtfully.


    ¡°Do you know that the Ardon and Russell families had vis close to each other in the past? Among all


    the children, Dexter liked Leo the most. Dexter always came first when studying or ying. Leo is the


    son of a rich man, and he never obeyed his dad. He only listened to Dexter.¡±


    Arnold spoke eloquently. Josie could imagine it in her head. Back at Mandarin Oriental, Leo had


    admired Dexter a lot.


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame that Leo is na?ve and didn¡¯t know that his gift was marked with a price from the start.¡±


    Arnold poured another cup of tea for himself. ¡°Dexter will never treat someone nicely for no reason.


    Everything he did was a foreshadow. It can be said that it was for today.¡±


    The Ardon family was influential in Wavery, and there weren¡¯t many opportunities to attack them. Leo


    could be considered the only loophole. Dexter had seen this opportunity many years ago and took Leo


    under his wing. Dexter discarded his pawn decisively when it was the right time.


    Every step Dexter took had been prepared long ago.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Josie felt a chill. In any case, not many people were capable of such thinking and scheming.


    A voice finally came from the room next door. Dexter said indifferently, ¡°I can¡¯t interfere in judicial


    procedures. Go home.¡±


    Leo fell down, paralyzed. His eyes were filled with despair.


    At this time, Arnold rose and folded his arms before walking out slowly.


    ¡°I was wondering why it was so noisy. As it turns out, you¡¯re here, Dexter.¡±


    Dexter raised his eyes. ¡°Arnold?¡±


    Arnold leaned against the door nonchntly. ¡°Am I not weed?¡±


    +15 Bonus


    Arnold looked around. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t this Leo? Why are you sitting on the floor? Stand up.¡±


    Leo was numb. He couldn¡¯t move at all.


    Arnold crouched down conveniently and patted Leo¡¯s shoulder. Arnold straightened Leo¡¯s clothes and


    said casually, ¡°What are you doing now? You¡¯re a man who can¡¯t control yourself when facing


    difficulties. You should learn from Mr. Russell. Back then, the Russell family was also in ruin, just like


    your family now. Look at how he pretended to be obedient and suffered in silence until today.¡±


    The air was tense in the private room. Someone beside Dexter wanted to say something, but he raised


    his hand to stop them.


    Arnold continued. ¡°But of course, I¡¯m not saying you¡¯re like that. Dexter kept everyone in the dark while


    umting wealth and seizing power one step at a time. He sucked his victims dry and treated


    everyone as pawns. He waspletely unscrupulous to take down everyone he hates.¡±


    ¡°Am I right, Dexter?¡±


    Two sharp gazes met each other, each with their own motives.

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152


    Chapter 152 Calling Him Cruel


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer.


    Leo sat on the floor and lost all his energy. No one knew how much he had heard.


    Arnold stood up and signaled for people to take him away before saying, ¡°Dexter¡¯s forehead is


    bleeding. Why are you still staring nkly?¡±


    After that, the staff in the private room came to their senses and started to bustle about and deal with it


    hurriedly.


    Dexter raised his hand to stop them. He took out a paper towel and wiped his forehead. ¡°It¡¯s a minor


    injury. It¡¯s not a big deal. Why are you here today?¡±


    Arnold pulled a chair and sat down. He said honestly, ¡°Martin is being investigated, so Landon is in


    unrest, and they can¡¯t ess their funds. I came to dig for information. Do you still insist on taking over


    this dump, Dexter?¡±


    Dexter crumpled his blood-stained paper towel into a ball and threw it into the trash. He said half-


    jokingly, ¡°Since you know that it¡¯s a dump, you don¡¯t want it either, right, Arnold?¡±


    Arnold said, ¡°The subsidiaries under Carter Group have gone through a second round of financing. We


    have more than one billion. We¡¯re not inferior to Russell Group.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Dexter took a napkin to wipe his hand. ¡°It¡¯s good news to Carter Group, who has been through


    serious damages. One good move makes all the difference. Good job.¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Arnold said, ¡°Dexter, Landon isn¡¯t my only goal.¡±


    Dexterughed indifferently when he heard it. ¡°I heard that you love the girls that Calvin has. here. Did


    youe here for them today?¡±


    ¡°As you know, I love good food and beautiful women.¡±


    It was coldte at night, but the women at the bar¡¯s entrance didn¡¯t seem cold. Their skirts. and dresses


    were so short and only reached their thighs.


    Josie stood at the door for a long time and shivered in the cold. Her heart also felt chilly.


    Dexter came out with Calvin. Thetterughed and said, ¡°I see you were wounded in action, Mrs.


    Russell. ire was carried out, so I thought you had aplete victory.¡±


    Josie froze, and she looked around subconsciously. ¡°Don¡¯t announce it out loud. I¡¯m not


    sponsibility if others hear it


    Her outfit was thin, and she was standing at the air vents. Dexter wrinkled his brows. ¡°Why


    you wait in the car?¡±


    didn¡¯t


    She didn¡¯t know what to say. ¡°¡­ I just came out.¡±


    Calvin went forward to size up her expression, and he quickly understood. ¡°Dex was just held up at his


    social gathering. Are you upset?¡±


    His tone sounded like he was coaxing a child. Josie was exasperated. ¡°No.¡±


    After leaving Heaven on Earth, the car had a tense atmosphere. Dexter replied to an email on his cell


    phone and asked, ¡°How much did you hear?¡±


    Josie was startled and looked up unconsciously to see his quiet expression. He knows about it? ¡°Not


    much¡­ I wanted to look for you and happened to hear it.¡±


    ¡°Where were you?¡±


    ¡°In the private room next door.¡±


    Dexter typed quickly with his hands and silently acknowledged her.


    Josie could no longer hold back. ¡°Why? There are many ways to bring down the Ardon. family. Why did


    you have to use Leo? Wasn¡¯t that too cruel?¡±


    When Dexter heard the word ¡®cruel,¡¯ he stopped typing and lifted his head. He had an attractive lower


    jawline. ¡°You think I¡¯m cruel?¡±


    -L


    Josie didn¡¯t dare to look him in the eye, but the feeling of injustice bubbled in her heart. ¡°Aren¡¯t you?


    Although he¡¯s a cocky son from a wealthy family, you were like a brother to him. You were his role


    model. Anyone else could have made a move against them, and it wouldn¡¯t have hurt as much as it did


    when it came from you. You personally sent him to his demise.¡±


    ¡°Do you have any emotions, Dexter? Or are you just pretending?¡±


    Dexter turned off his cell phone and sneered. ¡°You¡¯re the first person to talk to me about feelings.¡±


    Josie gulped. She was actually very nervous. ¡°I¡¯m not the first. Leo did it, too.¡±

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153


    Chapter 153 A-Port at Night


    Intermilk


    was thinking.


    iswas y de to


    decided to mate Lesson pown from the first reseta Bir Ses pon lopty ne


    Joor used tier ips Borry, I sidst have metide¡±


    Seddenly, a giant hand reached out and pinched her face. He looked in her eyes. His expression was


    hard to read, bon his gaze was sharp Who did you meet today?¡±


    Josie telt pain because he touched her wound. She gasped but made no noise gritting her teeth to bear


    the pain. For some reason, she was unwilling to tell him the truth. ¡°No one.¡±


    The answer prompted Dexter tough and press her wound harder, causing it to bleed and stain his


    fingertips. Was it Arnold?¡±


    Josie pursed her lips and refused to respond. She was angry with him.


    What did you say?¡± He still refused to release his hand that was on her wound.


    She remained silent even as the pain on her face intensified.


    ¡°I suspect he¡¯s the one who put that thought in you, Dexter concluded. ¡°You believed him because


    that¡¯s what you think. You think I¡¯m cold-blooded, heartless, and have no qualms using the people


    around me. Is that right?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face flushed from the pain. She almost could not breathe. However, she still refused to speak.


    After a while, Dexter finally showed mercy and let her go. She immediately covered her mouth and


    coughed loudly.


    ¡°Chris, send us to the port.


    The car turned and set off to another location.


    Josie copsed in a corner and touched her face. It was cool.


    Wavery was located by the sea and had a few ports for transporting cargo. This was a significant


    contributor to the city¡¯s economic growth.


    Dexter¡¯s Porsche traveled into the port area. The ce was surrounded byrge containers, giving it


    an oppressive atmosphere. Moreover, the car looked out of ce, shining its bright light on the ground.


    Dexter was the first to exit the car. Josie could not figure out why he brought her here. She


    followed him and felt the sea wind blowing at her coat. It was so cold that she was shivering.


    Dexter put his hands in his pocket and stood in the wind, looking at the scene ahead.


    Many workers were busy with a fewrge boats docked on the coast. Their backs were hunched over


    the weight of the goods, working hard for their livelihood.


    Soon, a hunch-backed man got off one of the boats. His teeth were stained yellow from years. of


    smoking. He rushed over to Dexter and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, what brings you here?¡±


    ¡°I was nearby, so I thought I shoulde here to look around. When will you finish unloading and


    loading the cargo?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. There won¡¯t be any dy. My men are working overtime to meet your requirement.¡± The


    man smiled before looking at Josie curiously.


    Chris offered the man a cigarette. ¡°Doug, Mr. Russell is not urging you to hurry. He knows your task is


    not easy.¡±


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°I understand, but if Russell Group hadn¡¯t taken over this crumbling ce, we would have lost our


    source of ie. Everyone is thankful to you, Mr. Russell.¡± Doug answered gratefully.


    They chatted briefly before Dexter dismissed him and let him return to work.


    Suddenly, a worker identally lost his bnce and bumped into Dexter while carrying goods.


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡± Chris rushed forward.


    Josie opened her mouth in shock and instinctively took several steps forward.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean it¡­¡± The worker gathered the goods and apologized. He looked


    terrified.


    Dexter brushed the dust off his clothes and did not seem angry. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Don¡¯t mind


    me.¡±


    The worker thanked him profusely before continuing to move the goods.

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154


    Chapter 154 He Was Disappointed


    As the man walked away, Josie noticed something wrong with his legs. He was limping.


    Dexter leaned slightly to her and exined, ¡°Around fifty thousand people are working in a few ports in


    Wavery. These people are neither young nor old and have no qualifications. They had no choice but to


    work in such a dangerous job of transporting cargo to provide for their families. If they were even a little


    careless, it would lead to injuries.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s difficult, right?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brow. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What to do then? Should we get rid of them?¡± Dexter casually pulled out a cigarette case and ced a


    cigarette between his lips. ¡°If fifty thousand people lose their jobs, it will affect fifty thousand families.


    How can anyone bear to do this?¡±


    Dexter lit a cigarette as Jean listened to his words, puffing away at the cigarette.


    ¡°Yet, Westin Ardon has no qualms doing that. Wavery¡¯s economy showed no growth but declined in the


    ten years he was in charge. He also meddled with the workings of a few corporations, including


    Landon. Moreover, he automated the cargo transportation work in ports to secure a profit for himself.


    However, the technology of these machines is still underdeveloped. These machines not only took


    away many people¡¯s jobs but were unreliable. However, the minor dy in cargo transportation doesn¡¯t


    cause significant bacsh or criticism against him. Instead, the workers were the only ones who


    suffered.¡±


    Josie gasped upon hearing Dexter. She frowned as she looked at the middle-aged men working hard at


    the port and felt sad for them.


    She never knew there was such controversy.


    Dexter tapped the ashes off his cigarette and turned around to face her.


    ¡°These ports would eventually go obsolete if Russell Group hadn¡¯t gotten involved and helped them.


    There are many other matters. Do you want to hear them?¡± He looked into her. eyes and continued,


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think Westin deserves to die?¡±


    Josie was too intimidated by his gaze to speak.


    ¡°You said there are many ways to bring down the Ardon family, but you have no idea how extensive his


    influence is. Any misstep will lead to my downfall. There¡¯s very little leeway.¡±


    Dexter came up behind her and hugged her, continuing softly, ¡°All the money Leo uses was


    his her


    pity him? Unlock seededer from corruption. With this in mind, do you still


    Josie looked down. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m very disappointed in you. I know you have a kind heart, but I didn¡¯t expect you to empathize with


    the Ardon family.¡±


    Dexter let go


    of her and took a final drag of the cigarette. He tossed it on the floor, stamped it out, and left.


    After he left, Josie slowly squatted on the floor and covered her face in regret. I was wrong¡­


    The cold wind blew from the sea, and the chill worsened the pain in her heart.


    She pulled out a name card from her coat pocket. There were a series of letters embossed in gold.


    ¡®Arnold Carter.


    She recalled what happened in Heaven on Earth. Arnold was about to leave the room when he


    suddenly turned around and came to her side. He looked at her cryptically and touched the scar on her


    cheek with his fingertips. ¡°You are beautiful even with a wound on your face.¡±


    Josie could not help but tremble.


    ¡°Are you a local?¡±


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Erm¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a delicious local specialty. I¡¯ll bring you to have it if there¡¯s a chance.¡±


    Arnold chuckled and pushed a name card to her. ¡°Dexter doesn¡¯t have much interest in women, so


    naturally, he doesn¡¯t know how to cherish ady. However, I treasure the woman I love. I like you very


    much, Ms. Warren. Even if we can¡¯t be business partners, we can consider dating.¡±


    He whispered those words into her ears, making her ufortable. She hated herself for falling for his


    words so easily and empathized with a malicious man.


    She tore that name card into shreds and let the wind blow them.


    away.


    Russell Group and Carter Group had countless conflicts. Josie would never believe Arnold. from now


    on, but she also could not trust Dexter fully. Therefore, she decided not to get involved anymore. Their


    feud was risky.


    A slight misstep could lead to one¡¯s downfall.

 Chapter 155

    Chapter 155


    Chapter 155 I Have nned in Advance


    Dexter never showed up the following week. He never returned to Mason Garden and seemed busy


    with the matters involving Westin.


    Marilyn was indignant on Josie¡¯s behalf. ¡°Even if he¡¯s busy, he should try toe home to sleep. He


    has gone overboard. I must talk to his grandfather.¡±


    Josie knew she had angered Dexter and stopped Marilyn. ¡°Dex is busy. There was a time when he


    didn¡¯te home for a month due to work. Don¡¯t worry, Marilyn.¡±


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t have mattered usually, but you are injured. As your husband, he should at least.e


    home to see you.¡± Marilyn was confused by Dexter¡¯s behavior.


    Josie resistedughing. Why doesit feel like I¡¯m the daughter of the family and Dexter, the son-in-w?


    ¡°I¡¯m almost recovered and will be able to get out of this cast after a week.¡± It was ufortable not


    being able to move freely. She could not wait for her injury to be healed.


    ¡°Josie, you don¡¯t have to hide it from me. Is Dexter seeing another woman?¡± Marilyn asked softly. She


    looked worried.


    Josie knew nothing about this. She stammered, ¡°I don¡¯t think so¡­¡± Dexter seemed busy every day and


    had no trace of other women on him.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Dex has always been devoted. You don¡¯t have to worry about this.¡±


    Josie considered. Even if Dexter has another woman, I can¡¯t do anything about it anyway.


    Suddenly, she received a message from Alice. ¡®Do you know about this? An order came from above


    stating that ire was dismissed from her position. Guess what the reason is. It¡¯s because she


    committed a crime!¡¯


    Josie did not expect the matter to be dealt with so quickly that an order came from the higher-ups in


    less than a week.


    ¡®Now, everyone is guessing whether you will take over her position. After all, you recently secured a


    major project and are the most viable candidate. But I think this position is jinxed. It¡¯s all right even if


    you don¡¯t get it.¡±


    Josie finished reading the message and hesitated briefly before opening her messages with Dexter.


    Their conversation was still stuck on the previous topic. She typed a couple of words. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Unlock seeded


    wever the


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    e deleted it immediately before typing again.


    She felt a splitting headache and had no idea how to express her remorse. After pondering for a long


    time, she tossed her phone aside, not wanting to think or deal with it for now.


    Meanwhile, Ivy brought a stack of documents and ced them on Dexter¡¯s desk in his office on the top


    floor of Russell Group.


    ¡°Mrs. Ardon sessfully retreated and is now in Rivodia. Should I let her see her son?¡±


    Dexter signed a document and did not look at her. ¡°Let her see him once a week until hees of


    age.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Ivy continued, ¡°Leo hasn¡¯t given up and sought out many old acquaintances. He even


    contacted Arnold. However, no one is willing to help him.¡±


    Dexter sneered, ¡°No one wants to be involved with a sinking ship. He is still young.¡±


    ¡°Westin¡¯s resignation will be on tonight¡¯s news. I believe Arnold will retaliate. What should we do?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see.¡± Dexter put down the pen. ¡°I need you to meet with Leo again and tell him to drive


    the car I gave him to Rivodia. The people there will receive him when they see the car.¡±


    Ivy opened her mouth in protest. ¡°Mr. Russell, you nned to help him all along¡­ Aren¡¯t you worried


    he wille back to bite you?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s like a younger brother I¡¯ve watched growing up¡­¡± He smiled slightly and recalled a certain sharp-


    tongued woman scolding him for being heartless a few days ago. ¡°He¡¯s the only Ardon I will help. Get it


    done immediately.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Ivy did not leave immediately but asked tentatively, ¡°Will you also stay in thepany tonight?¡±


    He has been staying in thepany this week. That¡¯s strange. Did he and Josie fight?


    ¡°Have


    you


    released the news about ire?¡± Dexter asked instead of answering her question.


    ¡°Yes, I have. I did not expect her to be so daring to have such murderous intent.¡±


    ¡®nk: Dexter gently tossed the pen on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m going home tonight.¡±

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156 Control Yourself


    When Dexter did note home, the servant helped Josie with her bath. It felt much less awkward than before. Apart from the asional guilt, she wasfortable living in Mason Garden without Dexter.


    At night, shey on the couch and kept typing and deleting her message for Dexter. In the end, she didn¡¯t send anything.


    Suddenly, Dexter opened the door and saw her lying on the couch with her legs exposed. They were so smooth that they seemed to glow under the light.


    ¡°Mr. Russell? You¡¯re back.¡± The maid¡¯s voice alerted Josie. She nearly jumped from the couch and adjusted her clothes before sitting there awkwardly.


    Dexter looked away and let the maid help him take off his coat.


    Marilyn heard noises and dashed out of the kitchen. ¡°Dex, you finally remembered toe home!¡±


    Dexter rubbed his temple and replied, ¡°I¡¯ve been busy withpany matters.¡±


    Marilyn cleared her throat and pulled him aside before whispering, ¡°That¡¯s only an excuse. You didn¡¯t even call for days. Did you two get into a fight?¡±


    Dexter nced sideways and saw Josie peeking at him fearfully. She immediately turned away when she realized he had noticed.


    ¡°Did she tell you?¡±


    ¡°I guessed. Josie didn¡¯t say anything bad about you.¡±


    ¡°I guess so¡­¡±


    Marilyn frowned. ¡°Is it over something major?¡±


    She reprimanded me because of another man. Is that considered a significant matter?


    ¡°No,¡± Dexter replied tly, ¡°it¡¯s her fault.¡±


    Marilyn wanted to defend Josie but was stumped briefly. ¡°Since it¡¯s not something major, why didn¡¯t youe home for days? Why were you throwing a tantrum?¡±


    Dexter arched his eyebrows in disbelief. ¡°Did she tell you I was throwing a tantrum?¡±


    Unlock seeded


    myself. Why do you keep using Josie?¡±


    Dexterughed angrily. ¡°Marilyn, are you and Grandpa under her spell? Who are you siding with?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Marilyn red at him. ¡°Your grandfather and I stand on the side of justice. You have handled the matter poorly. Even if you and Josie quarreled, it was wrong for you to abandon your wife for so many days. You hurt her feelings.¡±


    Hurt her feelings? I don¡¯t think so. She was happily ying with her phone when I came in just now.


    Marilyn pushed him toward Josie. ¡°Go and apologize to her. A married couple can never get angry with each other for too long. All you need to do is coax her a little, and she will be all right again.¡±


    She suddenly thought of something and added, ¡°Josie is still recovering from her injuries. You should control yourself and refrain from being intimate with her. Don¡¯t make things. difficult for her!¡±


    Those words sent a sudden sh through Dexter¡¯s calm gaze. He frowned and protested, ¡°Marilyn!¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, I will keep quiet.¡±


    Josie saw Dextering her way. Her heartbeat quickened. She gripped the hem of her shirt nervously.


    She wanted to say something but was not sure what she should say.


    Dexter sat beside her and peeled an orange to keep his hand busy. He said in a neutral tone, ¡°How¡¯s the wound on your face?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all right.¡± Josie snatched the orange from him. ¡°Let me do it.¡±


    His hand suddenly became empty, prompting him to smirk. Josie quickly peeled the orange, but doing it with one hand was difficult. She identally dropped the orange, rendering their situation awkward.


    Josie blushed embarrassedly and bent over quickly to pick it up. However, the orange was now dirty and had to be thrown away.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only an orange.¡± Dexter picked up another orange and yed with it in his hands.


    Josie felt even more nervous. She sat straight and said, ¡°I¡¯m not talking about the orange.¡±


    ¡°What then?¡± Dexter asked leisurely, prompting her to continue.


    Josie hesitated for some time before clenching her teeth. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have listened to others and reprimanded you. I¡¯m


    I¡¯m sorry,


    Dexter.¡±


    Dexter suddenly smiled and looked at her calmly. ¡°Turns out you have a conscience.¡±


    Someone

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157 He Loved Someone


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief when she realized it was easier to talk to Dexter than she expected.


    She watched him ce another slice of orange in his mouth and asked, ¡°Is it sweet?¡±


    Juice burst from the orange slice as he chewed, but it was not as sweet as the smile before him. He nodded slightly and answered, ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Josie sensed he had moved closer and rushed to maintain distance between them. ¡°Let me peel another one for you.¡±


    Dexter reached out and grabbed her wrist, stopping her. ¡°I have enough.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Josie froze immediately and looked at his hand on hers. She quickly pulled her hand away and considered briefly before saying, ¡°Dexter, I didn¡¯t arrange to meet with Arnold that day. He cornered me. I will try my best to avoid him from now on.¡±


    She had pondered about the matter and thought she needed to exin it.


    Dexter ced thest slice of orange in his mouth and asked, ¡°Do you like him?¡±


    While he sounded casual, Josie was shocked by his question. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    Usually, servants were busy with household chores downstairs, but they had all disappeared. Josie and Dexter were the only ones in the room. Their voices sounded hollow in the vast


    space.


    ¡°Arnold is known throughout Wavery as a womanizer. He seems respectable, well-mannered, and capable, so he has no problem getting any woman he wants. Furthermore, any woman. he interacted with couldn¡¯t help falling for him,¡± Dexter exined casually. ¡°You met him alone a few times. Are you sure you never felt anything for him?¡±


    Josieughed and unfurled her hands, revealing the intricate lines on her palms. ¡°Sounds like I should fall in love with him?¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    ¡°No, not even once,¡± Josie answered firmly. ¡°Although Arnold seems admirable, I keep feeling that his gentleness is only a mask he shows the world. In actuality, he is hiding his greed beneath that mask. Moreover, he approached me intending to exploit me. I¡¯m afraid of him and can never love him.¡±


    Josie stiffened again. She was asleep when they shared the bed previously. However, she was currently fully awake.


    ¡°Erm, Dexter.¡± Josie caught up with him and shouted, ¡°Have you known Arnold for a long time? Can you tell me about him?¡±


    Dexter paused immediately and red at her warningly. Josie faltered and nced elsewhere before saying. ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    He furrowed his brow and ced a hand on her shoulder, holding her slightly, ¡°Let¡¯s get upstairs first.¡±


    Josie entered the master bedroom and breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean it.¡±


    Dexter took off his jacket and entered the bathroom straight away. Soon, sounds of running water came from the bathroom. Josie had no choice but to pace the room in embarrassment.


    It took her a long time to calm down. Later, Dexter came out of the bathroom in a bathrobe. His chest was slightly exposed, revealing his well-formed corbone and firm muscles. Water droplets rolled down his skin. It was a mesmerizing sight.


    Meanwhile, Josie sat on the edge of the bed and had trouble drawing on herptop with one hand.


    Dexter nced at her and asked, ¡°Do you want to hear about Arnold?¡±


    Josie immediately put down herptop and sat straight, nodding eagerly. It was impossible not to be curious about someone like Arnold. Moreover, she wanted to know why Dexter would not go against him directly.


    ¡°He loved someone before.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes brightened. Who would have known there was a love story behind the business rivalry?


    ¡°Arnold and thatdy were childhood friends from equally prominent families. Everyone in Wavery thought they would get married.¡± Dexter sat on the other side of the bed. Josie could see the side of his face clearly under the bedroom light.


    ¡°What happened then? No way! Did thatdy fall in love with you?¡± Josie guessed.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158 She Loved Dexter


    Dexter replied with a hint of sarcasm, ¡°Something like that.¡±


    Josie was stunned into silence.


    Arnold loved Summer Olsen, and the whole world knew about it. Summer was the second daughter of the Olsen family. She had a prestigious background, was beautiful, and was friendly. She was highly respected in upper-ss social circles.


    The Carter and Olsen families lived near each other. Since Arnold was a teenager, he openly expressed his feelings for Summer. However, Summer pretended not to notice and remained only as his friend.


    Dexter was not much older than them. Thus, he could sense something. For example, Summer applied to study at the university he graduated from. She also devised ways to enter Russell Group for an internship and work as his assistant. Moreover, he noticed the overflowing admiration in her eyes.


    However, he could only feign ignorance.


    To achieve her goal, Summer even tricked Dexter and locked them in a hotel room before. spending the whole night expressing her love for him. She was devious and threatened. Dexter. ¡°Dex, marrying me is the best solution. I have the looks, capability, and prominent family background, making me the most suitable woman for you. Moreover, you won¡¯t be able to find a woman who loves you as much as I do. If you refuse me, reporters will gather outside this door when it opens tomorrow morning.¡±


    Dexter sat on the couch all night and looked at the sky through the window. ¡°Is it worth. throwing away your reputation like this?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Tears flowed from her beautiful eyes. ¡°All these years, I rejected countless men who pursued me, including Arnold, for your sake. Others might not understand why, but you do, right? Did you not notice anything?¡±


    Dexter raised his eyebrows and felt frustrated. ¡°You have the right to express your feelings, but I have the right to reject you. I see you as my younger sister and nothing more. You can ask me for anything except romantic love.¡±


    Summer seemed on the verge of copse and screamed hysterically, ¡°Dex! But I love you. I loved you for so many years!¡±


    Dexter stopped responding.


    However, Russell Group bought and destroyed every one of those photos. Shortly after Dexter freed himself of Summer, his assistant received another piece of news.


    Summer attempted suicide.


    Ivy received the news while Dexter was taking a nap in the backseat. Dexter had worked through the night to deal with work matters for days. He was exhausted.


    Ivy hesitated briefly before stuttering out the news.


    Dexter remained silent for a long time. Ivy peeked at him through the rearview mirror and saw him suddenly opening his eyes like a ferocious beast woken from its slumber.


    He rubbed his temple and said, ¡°I¡¯ll pay her a visit.¡±


    Summer slit her wrist, leading to severe blood loss that left her life hanging on a thread. She did this all to catch another glimpse of the man without regard for her.


    Still, her gamble worked. Dexter came to see her.


    He nced at her bandaged wrist and tapped it lightly before looking into her eyes. ¡°The worst thing a woman can do is to degrade herself.¡±


    Summer always made sure to dress up beautifully to see him. However, her lips were deathly pale this time, and she looked on the verge of dying. Yet, this look prompted Dexter to spare her a few more nces.


    She wanted tough. ¡°Dex, I cannot see you unless I degrade myself.¡±


    Her eyes were red and swollen. It seemed she had cried recently. ¡°Dex, do you really not want me?¡±


    Her voice sounded charming even in her despair. Even Ivy could not help but pity her.


    Meanwhile, Dexter sat in a chair and crossed his legs, looking at her kindly.


    ¡°Sum, you can name your condition. I won¡¯t refuse.¡±


    Naturally, he meant material things. Summer¡¯s tears fell onto her pillow. She knew how generous Dexter was with such things. Thest girl who pestered him asked for a limitless ck credit card, which he gave her without batting an eyelid. All he cared about was that she stayed away from him.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159 He Never Felt Anything


    However, Summer did not want any material things. Instead, she wanted to have Dexter for the rest of her life.


    That was impossible.


    Dexter would never allow her to make such a request.


    Therefore, she did not tell him what she desired the most. Instead, she looked at him dejectedly and said, ¡°Dex, will you let me see you asionally if I keep to the promise?¡±


    The most she could wish for at this point was to see him asionally.


    Dexter looked into her eyes. ¡°Sum, be reasonable.¡±


    His response shattered her hope. She could not hold back her sadness and burst into tears.


    ¡°Later, she went overseas and never returned, even today,¡± Dexter said tly and yed with the rosary beads on the bedside table. It sounded like he was talking about something that happened to someone else and not him.


    Josie was intrigued by the background story. ¡°So that¡¯s what happened. Arnold hates you. because of Summer.¡±


    ¡°I heard he went overseas a few times but could never find her.¡± Dexter smiled wryly. ¡°The suggestive photos at the hotel, her suicide attempt, and her sudden move overseas. Arnold. thought everything was my fault. How could he not hate me?¡±


    Josie thought it was unfair. ¡°But you didn¡¯t start it.¡±


    Dexter nced at the time and saw that it waste. ¡°Would it make


    any


    difference?¡±


    Josie was stumped. I think it makessome difference. It affects the oue somehow.


    Arnold had told her that Dexter had another woman before her. It seemed that woman was


    Summer.


    Josie was still puzzled about something, but Dexter put away the rosary beads and said, ¡°It¡¯s time to sleep.¡±


    Later, Josie gripped the nket in the dark, keenly aware of the masculine presence behind her. It made her a little nervous, but she still asked, ¡°Dexter, Summer pursued you persistently for a long time. Have you ever fallen for her?¡±


    Tsk, what a direct answer.


    Yet, his answer seemed to calm her concern somehow, and she soon fell asleep.


    However, she was not used to having someone beside her in bed. She kept moving toward the center of the bed in her sleep until she bumped into a warm, masculine body. It startled her and woke her up instantly.


    Dexter was a light sleeper and was also awakened by her movement. He asked hoarsely, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie did not dare to move or indicate that she was awake. She stayed still and pretended to be asleep.


    Hearing no response, Dexter gently and carefully pulled a nket over her body and returned to sleep.


    Josie listened to her violent heartbeat in the darkness. She could not help but be flustered by his gesture.


    The following afternoon, Josie nned to visit her father in the hospital. However, Marilyn was worried about her going out alone and insisted on apanying her.


    Calvin arranged everything well and took Justin to the hospital daily to care for his father. It seemed Justin had changed and was remorseful after what had happened previously. He became diligent and dedicated to caring for his father.


    Josie informed Calvin that she would be visiting her father. Thus, Calvin did not bring Justin to the hospital.


    Josie talked to her father, Paul, in the ward for some time. Suddenly, Matthew came in. ¡°Jo.¡±


    She stood up. ¡°Hi, Matt. I¡¯m here to see Dad.¡±


    Matthew looked at her arm and narrowed his eyes. ¡°I heard recently that you were admitted into our hospital for an arm fracture. However, you were already discharged when I went toThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    How¡¯syour arm?¡±


    find you.


    ¡°It¡¯s a lot better, Matt, so don¡¯t worry. I will be able to get the cast removed soon,¡± Josie answered nervously, knowing Marilyn was watching.


    However, Matthew did not care that Marilyn was there. ¡°How did you get into a car ident?¡±


    ¡°I guess I was unlucky¡­¡±


    Matthew furrowed his brow and asked, ¡°Did he have something to do with it?¡±

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160 ire Visited the Gynecology Department


    Josie felt ufortable when he was overly concerned about her. ¡°Not really¡­ It was my fault. I have a few vicious rivals at work.¡±


    Matthew did not believe her and seemed worried about her. ¡°Jo, I¡¯ve told you that you don¡¯t have to pretend to be strong before me. You can rely on me.¡±


    His words had gone overboard. Josie nced at Marilyn¡¯s suspicious expression and said quickly, ¡°Matt, I know you see me as your younger sister, but I¡¯m doing well, so please don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Matthew understood her hint and adjusted his attitude. He shook his head helplessly and replied, ¡°Please don¡¯t get into something like that again and make me worry, okay?¡±


    ¡°Sure, of course.¡± Josie smiled.


    Later, Josie and Marilyn left the ward and got into an elevator. Marilyn held Josie¡¯s arm to support her and asked tentatively, ¡°Jo, was that doctor your rtive?¡±


    Josie knew Marilyn would ask about Matthew and had prepared an answer. ¡°No, Marilyn. He¡¯s my father¡¯s lead doctor and is a kind man. He knew I was facing difficulties and was concerned about me. My father could have died long ago if not for his care.¡±


    Marilyn was not wholly convinced. ¡°He treats you as his sister?¡±


    ¡°Yes, how else can he treat me?¡± Josie could not help but feel guilty after saying that.


    ¡°All right, then. Jo, you now have Dex, who will handle everything for you. No matter the situation, Old Mr. Russell will always be on your side. As for Dex, being in the position that he is, he will never allow his wife to get into trouble,¡± Marilyn did not ask any more questions. but exined cryptically. ¡°The two most important members of the Russell family like you very much.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips and nodded. She did not dare to reveal that she and Dexter were only husband and wife on contract. She knew he did not like her much.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    When the elevator reached the ground floor lobby, Marilyn pped her thigh and eximed, ¡°Oh no! I left the thermos in the ward. I need to go upstairs to get it.¡±


    Therefore, Josie went to a chair in the lobby and sat down.


    The hospital was one of the few ces in the world that nevercked customers. It was always crowded with patients no matter the hour Eyewone bad wowied looks on their


    Josie found herself looking at the gynecology department before her. There was a long line along the corridor. She noticed a few young women crying and heavily pregnant women smiling contentedly.


    Josie focused on the people lining up and suddenly noticed a familiar figure. The woman held a paper and limped out of the department.


    That¡¯s ire!


    Josie was shocked. She narrowed her eyes and confirmed the woman was ire.


    Why is ire here? She is still injured. Shouldn¡¯t she be in the general ward? Could she be pregnant?


    Josie sensed something was wrong the more she thought about it. She slipped among the crowd and followed ire. Meanwhile, ire did not realize she was being followed and headed to the underground car park. She walked slowly due to her injuries.


    The bodyguards had beaten ire enough to keep her bedridden for half a month. Yet, she was out of bed and went for a checkup at the gynecologist department.


    Josie believed ire did not drive to the hospital by herself. Instead, someone was waiting to pick her up at the car park. However, she never heard that ire had a boyfriend.


    Josie sent Marilyn a message as she trailed ire, saying that she would leave ahead to go to Russell Group to see Dexter.


    Marilyn soon messaged back. ¡®Please be careful.¡¯


    Josie focused ahead and saw ire take many turns before walking toward a Mercedes Benz. A man exited the car and opened the door before helping her in.


    The car park was too dark for Josie to see that man¡¯s face. However, his body shape seemed familiar. Josie could not recall where she had seen him. Unfortunately, before she could. observe more closely, the man suddenly nced in her direction. She immediately turned away to herself and felt her heart thumping nervously.


    She saw his face in that split second.

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161 Helping Out


    The man seemed to notice Josie as she turned away. He pushed ire into the car and walked toward where Josie was hiding. The sound of his footsteps gradually came near.


    Josie closed her eyes and thought she would cause amotion and run if he came too close. However, as the man was about to reach her hiding ce, a big hand covered her mouth, causing her to widen her eyes in shock. Then, she saw a figure appearing from her side.


    The person¡¯s face gradually came into view. It was Arnold.


    He wore a suit and a pair of leather shoes, making it seem like he was here for business matters. His face seemed intimidatingly cold when he was not smiling. He nced at her and pulled her behind him.


    Then, he walked out of the hiding spot toward the man, behaving like he was only passing by.


    ¡°Mr. Yves?¡±


    The middle-aged man, who was called Phil Yves, instantly rxed his expression. He was confused briefly before recognizing Arnold. ¡°Is that you, Mr. Carter? What brings you here?¡± Phil immediately extended his hand for a handshake.


    Arnold yed with car keys in his hands before shaking Phil¡¯s hand. ¡°I came to the hospital for a checkup. I thought you seemed familiar but couldn¡¯t recall who you were. Then, I realized it¡¯s you, Mr. Yves.¡±.


    Phil smiled even wider than before. He let down his guard and said, ¡°It¡¯s me who should have recognized you sooner. I didn¡¯t expect to see you here, Mr. Carter. We have only met briefly. before this. I¡¯m honored that you remember me.¡±


    Arnold walked past him and looked at the Mercedes Benz. ¡°You¡¯re doing pretty well.¡±


    He smirked and continued, ¡°Russell Group must have paid you handsomely.¡±


    Phil suddenly appeared awkward. ¡°It¡¯s still okay.¡±


    ¡°What brings you to the hospital, Mr. Yves.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ I came here with a rtive. It¡¯s also for a health checkup.¡±


    Arnold nodded politely and seemed no longer interested in the conversation. He retreated


    and said Anyway I¡¯ll take my leave first.


    Phil nodded, eager to be on Arnold¡¯s good side. He watched Arnold leave. Then, he stood on his toes to look more closely, ensuring he did not miss anything.


    I don¡¯t think Mr. Carter is the kind of person who would hide someone like her. I must have been


    mistaken.


    Soon, Phil entered his Mercedes Benz and left the car park. Josie finally breathed a sigh of relief. She did not expect Arnold to show up suddenly or that he would help her. She said worriedly, ¡°That¡­ That man is the manager of Russell Group¡¯s human resource department!¡±


    Arnold stood rxed against the car door. ¡°I know.¡±


    Josie was suddenly stumped. There was something even more unbelievable that she could. not discuss with him, such as why Phil and ire were together. Are Mr. Yves and ire a couple? But Russell Group prohibits office romance. Furthermore, iremitted many crimes. Since they are a couple, could Mr. Yves be involved in my car ident?


    I need to find out about this.


    Josie desperately wished that Dexter was with her and not Arnold.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, even though we didn¡¯t team up, I still helped you. Aren¡¯t you going to thank me?¡± Arnold yfully tapped on his car.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Josie woke up from her thoughts. ¡°Unfortunately, I have to deal with urgent. matters, Mr. Carter. Let¡¯s chat another time.¡±


    She immediately tried to run to chase after the car, but an arm blocked her way. ¡°Get in my


    car.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips.


    Arnold liked to show off and loved driving sports cars. His blue Maserati attracted much. attention as it cruised on the road. Josie sat stiffly in the front passenger seat. She recalled. that Dexter preferred to keep a low profile and drove a Porsche for work matters. He would only drive a sports car in his personal time.


    Arnold sped up and soon caught up with Phil¡¯s Mercedes Benz. Josie was surprised. ¡°Mr. Carter, how do you know they are on this road?¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Arnold turned the steering wheel and did not answer her question. ¡°Can you call me Arnold?¡±

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162 Call Him Arnold


    Josie gulped and replied, ¡°That¡¯s¡­ inappropriate.¡±


    The Mercedes Benz stopped at the traffic light ahead. Josie was anxious, but Arnold appeared. rxed. ¡°Mr. Russell also calls me Arnold. So how is that inappropriate?¡±


    Josieughed and replied, ¡°Mr. Carter, stop joking with me. I¡¯m not in the same league as Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t pursue the car unless you call my name.¡± The light turned green. Arnold touched the steering wheel and whistled a tune, refusing to drive.


    Josie panicked when she saw the Mercedes Benz traveling out of sight. She had no choice but to submit to his request. ¡°Arnold! Arnold! Chase that car!¡±


    Arnold smiled gleefully and stepped on the elerator. He asked, ¡°Why did you go to the hospital alone? Aren¡¯t you worried something could happen to you?¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Josie thought his question was strange, but she was too focused on the car ahead to think about it. ¡°Didn¡¯t you also go to the hospital alone?¡±


    She suddenly sensed something was wrong and turned to him curiously. ¡°Is something wrong with your health?¡±


    ¡°You seem to wish something is wrong with me.¡± Arnold leaned into his seat.


    Josie was surprised by his reply and immediately denied it. She grew more curious as she observed him more. He not only had wealth and prestige but was exceptionally handsome and had impable good taste. It was hard to imagine him being so in love and devoted to a


    Woman.


    Summer must be beautiful.


    For some reason, Phil did not find it strange that Arnold¡¯s car followed him or attempted to shake off Arnold¡¯s car. Instead, he drove onto a main road, where Josie noticed more luxury cars. It felt like they had entered a different world.


    Josie was curious. ¡°What is this ce?¡±


    Arnold did not answer her but sped up. ¡°Do you want me to go alongside the car?¡±


    He seemed to understand what Josie was thinking. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Unlock seeded


    seededared


    peared Phil¡¯s, Josie hid below the car window and raised camera lens at the Mercedes Benz¡¯s front seats and manned


    Then, she erged the photo on her phone and found ire in it. ¡°It¡¯s really her¡­¡±


    Phil¡¯s Mercedes Benz entered a racecourse¡¯s parking lot. Phil then exited the car with a stack. of documents, while ire remained in the car alone.


    Josie got up from hiding with some difficulty and looked outside. She discovered that all the luxury cars she saw on the road were now parked there. Thus, she guessed this was a grand racecourse exclusive for wealthy men.


    She considered briefly before opening her chat with Dexter to send him the photo she had. taken. Suddenly, a voice sounded beside her. ¡°Why does an ordinary employee have Dexter¡¯s personal number? How strange.¡±


    Arnold spoke tly. It sounded like he knew the answer but still brought up the question to see her response.


    Josie replied awkwardly, ¡°It¡¯s¡­ for work. It¡¯s easier tomunicate with Mr. Russell this way.¡±


    Arnold grunted as if he understood her. ¡°But why not report to Ms. Miller? What kind of work requires you to report to him directly?¡±


    Then, he paused briefly before continuing, ¡°Could your task be acting as his wife?¡±


    ¡®Thud. The phone slipped from Josie¡¯s hand and fell on her foot. It was so painful that she could hardly breathe.


    Arnold had a domineering presence. It was impossible to hide from him. Moreover, he seemed to know everything, so she could not feign ignorance or refuse to answer.


    It seemed she would be in trouble no matter what she did.


    After a moment, Arnold bent over and helped her pick up the phone. He waved it at her and chuckled. ¡°You dropped your phone. Shouldn¡¯t you pick it up?¡±


    Josie gulped and took the phone immediately. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    He gripped the phone securely and did not let her take it. ¡°Do you want to confront that woman?¡±

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163 Her Turn to Help


    Josie was stunned. Does he want to see me fight with ire?


    ¡°Erm, I don¡¯t have my bodyguard today. I¡¯m too weak to fight her.¡±


    Arnold nced at her phone and realized it was an old model that came out many years ago. There were a few cracks on the screen. It seemed Josie was a frugal person. ¡°Why are you scared? Aren¡¯t I here? It will be two against one. We can easily win.¡±


    Josie did not dare to cause trouble, especially when Dexter was not around. Moreover, she was with Arnold, a man of dubious intentions. ¡°Forget it. It¡¯s thepany¡¯s internal matter. I better investigate it further.¡±


    She forcefully snatched her phone back and discovered there was no reception. It meant her photo was not sent out. She had no choice but to request Arnold to turn on his mobile hotspot. It was embarrassing.


    Then, she pursed her lips and considered before saying, ¡°Mr. Carter, you¡¯re overthinking. I only desire to do my best for Russell Group and have zero interest in being Mr. Russell¡¯s wife. Please don¡¯t get me into trouble with Mr. Russell. I don¡¯t want to lose my job.¡±


    She spoke sincerely. Her words sounded like something any employee would say.


    Arnold smiled slightly upon hearing her and became interested in her expression.


    ¡°Mr. Carter?¡± She could not figure out the meaning behind his smile.


    ¡°Arnold,¡± Arnold corrected.


    Josie was rendered speechless. Suddenly, Phil came out of the racecourse and no longer the documents. He quickly entered his car and sped away, leaving the ce with ire.


    Josie saw Arnold sitting still and asked tentatively, ¡°Should we leave? You can drop me by the road, and I¡¯ll get a taxi to send me home.¡± What bad luck. Why do I always get into some unexpected situation whenever I bump into him?


    However, Arnold unlocked the doors and exited the car. ¡°I helped you. It¡¯s now your turn to help me.¡±


    Josie soon found herself being led ahead by his arm around her shoulder. She sensed she would be dragged into some conspiracy. ¡°I can¡¯t ride a horse.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll teach you.¡±


    he ratecourse was around the size of two ser fields. Usually, o


    get in, but a uniformed staff rushed over upon seeing Arnold. He opened the door and greeted respectfully, ¡°Good to see you, Mr. Carter Junior.¡±


    Josie could not resist her curiosity and whispered, ¡°Why did they call you Mr. Carter Junior?¡±


    ¡°Have you considered that maybe I have a father?¡±


    Oh, so that¡¯s why.


    They entered a car arranged for them and sped toward their location. The driver said, ¡°Mr. Carter, Mr. Russell has been waiting for some time.¡±Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Mr. Russell? Did he mean Dexter Russell? He¡¯s here?


    Josie panicked when she pieced together that they would be meeting Dexter. She gripped Arnold¡¯s wrist. ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this?¡±


    No wonder he knew where Mr. Yves would be going. He is supposed to meet Dexter here.


    Arnold was slightly astonished by her reaction but soon became curious. ¡°Why are you so afraid of him? It¡¯s not like he can do anything to you.¡±


    That¡¯s not the issue. The problem is what he will think when seeing me show up with another man. It will be hard to exin.


    ¡°I¡¯m Russell Group¡¯s employee. It will be unseemly if I keep being seen hanging out with the head of Carter Group. Mr. Carter, please understand my situation and let me out of the car,¡± Josie forced herself to exin despite being on the verge of tears.


    ¡°Hanging out. I like this word.¡± Arnold grabbed her hand and said, ¡°You showed different. sides of yourself to Dexter. Sometimes you behaved submissively and acted cute to coax him. Other times, you seemed rational and serious. Yet, you always behaved professionally with me.¡±


    ¡°However, your progress is too slow. I can help you to speed up your growth when required. Do you wish to try?¡±


    Josie could not understand what he was talking about and was not interested. She desperately wanted to jump out of the car.

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164 Won Her Heart


    Arnold refused to let her go. He held her hand as he walked toward the center of theracecourse.The racecourse kept many pure breed horses. Josie nced at the horses¡¯ lustrous coats and knew they were easily worthed at least ten times more than her.


    Dexter rode a pure-breed Ferghana horse and galloped in the middle of the racecourse. He wore a denim jacket and tucked the hem of his pants into his leather riding boots. His slim figure and fitting clothes made him appear even taller than usual. His horse galloped fast and moved like a wind across the grassy ground.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Dexter suddenly pulled the rein as he sensed people approaching him. The horse obeyed him immediately and stopped. He looked heroic sitting atop the horse.


    Josie desperately wished the ground would swallow her when he looked down in her direction.


    She tried to pull her hand away, but Arnold stubbornly refused to let go. He raised his chin andmented, ¡°Dexter, your horse-riding skills improved again.¡±


    Dexter did not get off the horse but looked at Josie, standing beside Arnold. ¡°Arnold, I see you brought my employee. Where did you find her?¡±


    Josie heard his sarcastic tone and rushed to exin, ¡°I met Mr. Carter at the hospital. It was a coincidence.¡±


    Arnold held her hand tightly. ¡°You forgot again. Didn¡¯t I say to call me Arnold?¡±


    Josie cautiously observed Dexter¡¯s expression. His gaze darkened like a stormy sky before. calming down. Then, he got off the horse and smiled cryptically while removing his gloves. ¡°Arnold, I had no idea you managed to woo my employee in mere few days.¡±


    Josie was unable to say anything.


    A racecourse staff led a horse to Arnold. Arnold patted the horse¡¯s mane and said, ¡°That¡¯s not true. I¡¯ve always been sincere with my feelings toward women, but I¡¯m always the one to get dumped. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t still be single now.¡±


    He nced at Josie suggestively after saying that.


    Josie could not bring herself tough. She sensed Arnold was hinting about Summer.


    Thats their problem. However, knowing you, no one can force you to do


    int tout believe I understood you pretty well Dexter epted aw


    the staff and drank a few mouthfuls. His Adam¡¯s apple trembled alluringly as he swallowed.


    Arnold climbed onto his horse and extended his hand toward Josie. ¡°In that case, you seem. to have forgotten something. Those who understand my character do not end well.¡±


    Josie did not ept his hand and shook her head. ¡°My arm is still injured. I can¡¯t ride.¡±


    ¡°Arnold is a good rider. He is especially good at subduing a rogue horse. You should experience it.¡± Dexter sounded in a good mood.


    She stared at him with shock and fear. She had never ridden a horse, especially a rogue one.


    Arnold smirked and said, ¡°Come up here. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let you get hurt.¡±


    The staff helped her put on wrist and knee guards. Thus, Josie had no choice but to get on the horse. Arnold secured her in his embrace and hugged her gently, resting his chin on her shoulders. Then, he taught her basic riding techniques and spoke to her affectionately.


    Josie did not dare to look at Dexter¡¯s expression. She felt a chill down her spine.


    Meanwhile, Dexter was feeding his horse. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him for some time. His appetite has grown a lot. It seems no amount of food could satisfy him.¡±


    Arnold replied, ¡°A rogue horse can never be fully tamed. Its appetite will be more voracious as it grows. You should be prepared.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m afraid he will be blinded by his appetite and greed, biting off more than he can chew.¡±


    ¡°When there¡¯s a will, there¡¯s a way.¡± Arnold gripped the rein tightly, prompting the horse to neigh. Josie was frightened by the noise and felt her heart in her throat. Then, Arnold asked, ¡°Dexter, we haven¡¯tpeted for a long time. What about racing one round?¡±

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165 Horse Racing


    Dexter¡¯s expression was ambiguous. Suddenly, he smirked and said, ¡°Sure, let¡¯s see if your have cked off on your skills.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    Josie¡¯s back broke out in cold sweat. Dexter owned this racecourse. He would have no problem riding well. However, Josie had never been on a horse before this. She feared what would happen to her if Arnold insisted onpeting with Dexter.


    Thankfully, Arnold had mercy and did not begin the race immediately. He embraced her securely and guided the horse to walk a few rounds so that she could get used to the movements. At the same time, he said to Dexter, ¡°I heard Leo went to Rivodia. Initially, I thought he would stand firm on his principle. Who knew he would give in eventually?¡±


    Dexter sat straight on the back of his horse. ¡°If he still hasn¡¯t learned toy low and bid his time, he should stop telling people that he regarded me as his older brother for years.¡±


    Arnold smiled. ¡°Lay low and bid his time? Aren¡¯t you worried he could turn into a wolf and attack you one day?¡±


    ¡°Arnold, a weak puppy can never turn into a wolf. Don¡¯t you agree?¡± Dexter¡¯s gaze seemed to hint at something. He nced at Josie and smiled slightly.


    Meanwhile, Josie was on high alert and focused on staying on the horse. She hated the feeling of being dangled in the air.


    Arnold noticed her nervousness and taught her to adjust her posture when pulling They seemed intimate as their hands touched. ¡°I had a meeting with Carter Group¡¯s management yesterday. Everyone tried to convince me to give up on purchasing Lan They seemed to think Russell Group is guaranteed to win.¡±


    ¡°I have no power to instruct them to do that. You misunderstood.¡±


    Seeing Josie was less nervous, Arnold looked at Dexter and replied, ¡°Of course, I trust the people on my side. However, I wonder if you can trust anyone in Russell Group.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile gradually faded. At the same time, Arnold hugged Josie tightly and pulled the rein. ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡±


    Two horses stood before the starting line. The horse trainer stood at the side and counted. from three to one. The two horses shot forward like arrows, leaving clouds of dust in the air and loud noises of hooves on the ground.


    Josie closed her eyes and felt the strong wind on her face. She could only hold the rein with.


    andrar no sense of security. The horse moved so fast that be remote in tear it felt like she would get thrown off at any secr


    ¡°Josie, control your breathing and open your eyes.¡± Arnold¡¯s calm voice sounded by her ear.


    They were so close that Josie could smell his special perfume. The fragrance was a mix of lilies and roses blended with the unique scent of his masculine pheromone. He secured her tightly in his embrace so that she would not move.


    Josie worked hard to calm down and opened her eyes to see Dexter riding ahead. His form was mesmerizing and powerful. Dust filled the air as he rode past. He reminded her of amander returning from a victorious battle.


    His horse galloped fast and soon left them behind. Dexter even had time to nce behind. him and met Josie¡¯s gaze, oppressing her with his domineering presence.


    ¡°Don¡¯t space out during such a crucial moment?¡± Arnold¡¯s voice woke Josie from her daze. He sneered and continued, ¡°Seems like you¡¯re no longer afraid.¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Josie could barely say one word before Arnold suddenly sped up. He caught up with Dexter and turned to him, shouting, ¡°Dexter, I¡¯m going to overtake you!¡±


    Dexter smirked and hit his horse with a riding whip. His horse neighed loudly and charged madly ahead, putting a considerable distance between them.


    Josie was stunned. Dexter¡¯s horse was startled and galloped wildly on the racecourse. Yet, he could control it.

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166 I Like Your Beauty Spot


    The horse trainer shouted urgently. ¡°Mr. Russell! Stop!¡±


    Josie opened her mouth in shock and looked at Dexter. His horse had galloped off the


    course.


    Arnold slowed down and asked casually, ¡°Are you worried?¡±


    Josie sat stiffly. ¡°No¡­.¡±


    Then, Arnold held her hands tightly and chuckled. ¡°Are you aware that your bodynguage doesn¡¯t lie? Moreover, we are sitting so close that I can know your thoughts.¡±


    His words annoyed Josie, prompting her to retort, ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯m nervous.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s stop here.¡± Arnold did not care who won the race and let his horse slow down. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Dexter has years of experience in taming horses. He will be fine.¡±


    idents can always happen. Josie gulped worriedly and recalled the news she had seen. I read that people became disabled after falling off a horse. I can¡¯t find Dexter anywhere. What should I do?


    ¡°Arnold, why did you do that for?¡± Josie did not hide her annoyance and scolded, ¡°You knew you could never win with me on the horse. Why did you insist on a race with him? You even goaded him. Look at what you¡¯ve done! What if something happened to him?¡±


    Arnoldughed upon hearing her. ¡°What are you saying? Do you think it was deliberate? I have no reason to do that.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    It¡¯s because of Summer! Josie clenched her teeth furiously but could not say anything.


    ¡°Let me down!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Arnold leaned to the side and looked at her face before rubbing his fingertips against her skin. ¡°There¡¯s dust.¡±


    Josie forgot to breathe as he leaned close. He looked at her charmingly and said, ¡°I like the beauty spot under your eye. It¡¯s pretty.¡±


    Josie came to her senses and hit him with her arm. ¡°I want to get down from the horse!¡±


    Arnold did not stop her this time. The horse trainer stepped forward to unfasten the straps holding her to the saddle and helped her off the horse.


    hearte finally calm down once her feet touched the ground. Unlock seeded


    roumans and asked. ¡°Where¡¯s Mr. Russell? Is he not back yet? Have you


    A neigh sounded right after her questions. She looked as far as she could and found Dexter returning on his horse. His horse galloped fast, but he did not seem nervous and let it gallop toward Josie.


    He¡¯s all right! That¡¯s wonderful!


    Josie smiled, but the joy in her eyes gradually disappeared as she realized the horse was charging in her direction. Dexter¡¯s expression was cold and emotionless. He also made no move to steer the horse away. It seemed he was targeting her.


    Josie stepped back but did not have time to react otherwise. Her pupils widened with shock.


    As the horse was about to reach Josie, Arnold jumped off his horse and dashed to her. He grabbed her waist and rolled them out of the way. Josie cried out in pain.


    Meanwhile, Dexter suddenly pulled the rein and steered the horse in another direction, narrowly avoiding where Josie stood. He noticed the two people in a tight embrace on the ground.


    Arnold let Josie fall on him and used his body to cushion her fall.


    Josie coughed and was still flustered from what had happened. On the other hand, Arnold tucked stray strands of Josie¡¯s hair behind her ears and asked, ¡°Are you hurt?¡±


    Josie shook her head and stood up immediately. ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    Arnold propped his head on his arm and sneered, ¡°Dexter, you haven¡¯t changed. You¡¯re still harsh to thedies.¡±


    Dexter got off the horse and handed the rein to the horse trainer. ¡°Bring it to the vet. It injured its legs.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Seeing that Dexter did not respond, Arnold turned to Josie and said, ¡°Look at him. You can¡¯t rely on Mr. Russell. If you want someone you can lean on and protect, I suggest you choose


    me.¡±

 Chapter 167

    Chapter 167 Let Her Be Your Assistant


    Josie was also confused by Dexter¡¯s action. She could not understand why he did it. If Arnold did not save her, that horse would have collided with her and killed her.


    Dexter remained cold and indifferent as he brushed the dust off his clothes. Then, he smiled vaguely, ¡°Did you hear that? Arnold treats women like queens. It¡¯s not bad for you to follow him. Once, he held an engagement ceremony in Carter Group to court a woman. It was an enviable sight.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression changed visibly as Dexter spoke. His smile was not as easygoing ast before. ¡°Dexter is jealous of me. I¡¯ve dated many women, but he¡¯s alone all these years. I wonder who will get married first.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She sensed there was a deeper meaning to his words.


    Meanwhile, Dexter removed his riding clothes and put on his coat, ignoring Arnold.


    However, Arnold refused to give up. ¡°Dexter, I like this employee of yours. Can I have her as my assistant? I had many assistants before, but they are not as innocent and soothing as this lovelydy.¡±


    ¡°Since you already have Ivy as your assistant, I guess it won¡¯t affect you much if you lose such a junior employee.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no problem at all.¡± Dexter turned to the side and looked at Josie as he walked past Arnold. ¡°You should ask her yourself if you truly want her.¡±


    Josie felt threatened by his intimidating gaze and said, ¡°I¡¯m honored to have a chance to work


    for Mr. Carter.¡±


    Dexter smirked and touched the roof of his mouth with the tip of his tongue. He did not reveal his thoughts about her response. Instead, he said, ¡°In that case, you should follow Mr. Carter home.¡±


    He strode toward the exit after saying that. Josie¡¯s heart clenched as she watched him leave.


    Suddenly, Arnold stepped in front of her and blocked her sight of Dexter. He smiled and said, ¡°Seems like you have toe home with me today.¡±


    Josie returned to the Maserati and sat in the front passenger seat in a daze. She rubbed her fingers on her phone and pondered over the matter. That¡¯s just great. Not only did I forget to tell him about ire and Phil. I even got myself into more trouble.


    you Thinking? It was now evening. The light from the set Unlock seeded At with colorful hues. His side profile reminded Josie of a fund


    You¡¯re wondering why Dexter tried to crash his horse into you.¡±


    Arnold correctly guessed what Josie was thinking, but she refused to admit it. ¡°I was wondering whether you will send me home.¡±


    Arnold was surprised by her response. ¡°Don¡¯t you know women all over Wavery desire to share my bed?¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Josie took a deep breath before continuing. ¡°But I think you¡¯re a righteous. gentleman. You won¡¯t behave inappropriately with someone like me.¡±


    ¡°A righteous gentleman? Who told. you this?¡±


    ¡°Rumors say you pulled all stops to pursue a woman in the past. I feel I can trust such a dedicated man,¡± Josie replied, choosing her words carefully.


    Arnold sneered and drove the car to the ground floor of Carter Group building. ¡°Did Dexter tell you this?¡±


    Josie shook her head slowly.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to hide. After all, I have never hidden anything from you.¡± Arnold exited the car and opened the door for Josie. ¡°Furthermore, you¡¯ve guessed incorrectly. I¡¯m not a righteous gentleman.¡±


    Josie looked at Carter Group¡¯s sign and asked, ¡°Where are you bringing me?¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    It seemed every president had a lounge in their office. However, Arnold¡¯s lounge was in apletely different style from Dexter¡¯s. Moreover, there were all kinds of alcoholic drinks. in the room. It was a dazzling sight.


    Arnold poured a ss of red wine and swirled it. ¡°I¡¯m serious about what I offered, Josie. Do you want to join Carter Group? You don¡¯t have to work as an undercover.¡±

 Chapter 168

    Chapter 168 Jealousy


    The frustration in Josie¡¯s heart grew the longer she remained in this ce. She ced a hand. on the bar table and fluttered hershes. ¡°Mr. Carter, do you think I¡¯m beautiful?¡±


    Arnoldughed and answered, ¡°Honestly, you¡¯re still quite some way from being considered beautiful.¡±


    Josie dropped all her charming act and appeared annoyed. ¡°Why do you want me then? I¡¯m only an unassumingmoner. I have nothing of value, not even beauty. All I have is my life.¡±


    Arnold smiled cryptically and drank a mouthful of wine. Then, he stood behind her and slowly fed her the rest of the wine in the ss. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m not interested in you, but Dexter cares about you, and that piques my interest.¡±


    He is a freak. Josie choked on the wine and coughed, pressing her hand to her chest. Her mouth was filled with the taste of alcohol.


    ¡°Why do you want to snatch something belonging to him? Is it because the woman you loved fell in love with him?¡± She blurted without thinking.


    Arnold raised his eyebrows and smiled. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to know about this.¡±


    Josie coughed and considered how she could exin when Arnold¡¯s phone rang. He did not want to answer the call but saw the attached message and knew he had no choice but to


    answer it.


    Arnold frowned and walked out of the lounge to take the call.


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief and was temporarily freed from his oppressive aura. She dropped herself on the couch and looked at the view outside the floor-to-ceiling window, At this moment, she realized that Carter Group was exactly opposite Russell Group.


    What should I do now? Do I really have to spend the night here?


    But how am I to face Dexter if I return to Mason Garden? Her mind reyed scenes of him charging at her on his horse.


    Josie could never forget his gaze. It was cold and emotionless. That was enough reason for her to believe he wanted to kill her.


    She felt sad as she thought about this.


    and took red


    time to answer the call. He left for so long Sugdenly she heard someone knocking on the door. She


    ran to get the door. ¡°It¡¯s your lounge. Why are you knocking¡­..¡±


    Josie abruptly fell silent when she saw the man standing before her.


    ¡°Dexter?¡±


    Her tone was filled with surprise.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Dexter held a cigarette between his fingers and stared at the red stain on the corner of her mouth. He did not utter a word to her.


    Josie could not stand the prolonged silence and gave in. She felt oddly guilty as she asked, ¡°How do you know I¡¯m here?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze instantly darkened. He stepped into the lounge, stared at the empty wine ss, and snorted. ¡°I have to apud your resourcefulness. You always know to find yourself a protector. Not many women are as lucky as you.¡±


    His sarcastic words dispelled any sense of guilt Josie had. She raised her chin and refused to back down. ¡°You¡¯re right. Since you abandoned me, I had no choice but to find another man.¡±


    Dexter immediately gripped her chin and leaned close to her face. ¡°Why did you make it sound like I¡¯m mistreating you? Josie, haven¡¯t I warned you to know your ce? Don¡¯t you dare dream otherwise!¡±


    Josie refused to give in. Her eyes glimmered with determination as she retorted, ¡°Really? And let myself die trampled by your horse?¡±


    Josie felt like she had released a burden after finally voicing her grievance. She awaited. Dexter¡¯s response with anticipation.


    Dexter did not let the matter go and answered confidently, ¡°Even if Arnold didn¡¯t help you, I would never let the horse collide with you.¡±


    Tears fell from the corner of her eyes. ¡°Would you? That horse had gone mad. You probably wouldn¡¯t be able to control it.¡±

 Chapter 169

    Chapter 169 Betrayal


    ¡°I would have controlled the horse!¡±


    Josie¡¯s tears fell onto the back of Dexter¡¯s hand. It felt hot on his skin and thawed his heart.


    Dexter furrowed his brow and seemed angry.


    Josie was unsure what he was annoyed about, but she guessed it wasn¡¯t only about what happened on the racecourse. Furthermore, he behaved indifferently to her the whole day. disheartening her.


    She turned away and said, ¡°You¡¯re right. I should know my ce. I¡¯ve already received your favor, so I shouldn¡¯t expect more. Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t join Arnold¡¯s side.¡±


    Dexter made her face him, demanding, ¡°You were drinking with him. Did you share the same ss?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Josie could not resist goading Dexter. Her heart was filled with grievances against him.


    Dexter sneered indifferently and ced the cigarette between his lips. The glowing cigarette lent a threatening gleam to his gaze, intimidating Josie. He blew puffs of smoke to her face, obscuring her vision. Suddenly, he let her go and tossed the cigarette in the trash can before going to the bar counter. Then, he reached under it and pulled out something before doing the same to the edge of the couch and the bathroom door.


    Josie was confused and watched him throw the things he pulled out onto the floor and crush them under his feet. He locked the lounge door after that.


    Josie could not help but be afraid of Dexter at this moment. She retreated from him. ¡°What are you doing? This is Arnold¡¯s ce.¡±


    ¡°So?¡± He unfastened his tie. ¡°Arnold had no qualms installing listening devices in his lounge. No one understands his distrustfulness as much as I do. I can¡¯t let him listen to what I will do


    next.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and touched the table to support herself. Night breeze rippled the air and fluttered her skirt, revealing her smooth and fair legs.


    Dexter¡¯s breath grew heavier. He sneered, ¡°You showed up at the racecourse and ruined my n.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I saw ire at the hospital. She was there with Mr. Yves, the human


    resource department manager. Moreover, she is pregnant. I wo


    wouldn¡¯: hay holic: If Article had not appeared then.¡±


    If she had known what Phil would do afterward, she would have risked everything and fought him.


    Dexter furrowed his brow. He had no idea about the things Josie said. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you inform me earlier?¡±


    ¡°How could I tell you? Arnold was beside me, and my phone signal was cut due to outstanding fees. I couldn¡¯t message you,¡± Josie felt anxious and exined hurriedly.


    Dexter sat down and lit another cigarette. He smoked to calm his fury.


    Josie noticed his fierce expression and pursed her lips. ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    ¡°He went against me.¡±


    It took her a while to understand what he meant. ¡°Isn¡¯t he¡­ the manager of the human. resource department?¡±


    ¡°Two of the elite talents he poached were involved in this acquisition project. They ran off with important documents this afternoon.¡±


    Dexter was a charismatic man. Even as he sat there quietly with an expression of fury and gloom, one could not help but be attracted to him.


    Since he knew about these, it meant everything had been exposed. Josie suddenly recalled. what Arnold had said about helping him and finally understood what he meant.


    Moreover, he hinted at the racecourse that Dexter should not trust the people in Russell Group.


    It turned out Arnold was using Josie to buy time.


    Josie was suddenly ridden with guilt. Landon acquisition project was important to Dexter. They thought their sess was guaranteed after the fall of the Ardon family. No one expected the enemies to cause more trouble.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie went to the couch and sat down. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t know about all this. All I knew was that Mr. Yves and ire worked together and acted against me. I didn¡¯t expect there to be more than that.¡±

 Chapter 170

    Chapter 170 Their Second KissThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Dexter looked at her through the clouds of smoke. ¡°He sent me documents this morning but altered the information in it. Do you know about this?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I saw him bringing documents to the racecourse, but I didn¡¯t know. what they were or that he went to see you.¡±


    Dexter nodded upon hearing her and smirked. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Arnold to resort to such a trick.¡±


    Josie was stunned. Arnold always appeared yful and unserious. Who would have known he was such a devious and scheming person?


    ¡°Where is he? Aren¡¯t you worried he wille in?¡± They were now in Arnold¡¯s lounge, yet Dexter behaved like he was home.


    ¡°He¡¯s going overseas. He should be on the way to the airport.¡±


    Josie was amazed at how nonchnt Dexter sounded. She suspected he would never let someone trick him without paying back in kind.


    Dexter snuffed the cigarette. ¡°You no longer have a protector now that he¡¯s gone. Are you disappointed?¡±


    Josie clenched her hands. ¡°I never wanted him to be my protector.¡±


    Dexter regarded her indifferently before suddenly holding her wrist and embracing her. ¡°You lied so much. When were you ever truthful?¡±


    Josie could not move. Her long hair pooled messily on his arm. The warm and soft strands. awakened something in his heart.


    ¡°Everything I¡¯ve told you is the truth.¡±


    He tightened his grip on her waist and turned her over, trapping her in the corner of the couch. Their hips touched.


    Josie was overwhelmed by his presence. When she finally found her bearing, he pressed her down again and rested his chin on her shoulder, breathing against her ear.


    ¡°You seemed so innocent and docile before Arnold this morning.¡±


    Josie struggled to retort to his mockery. ¡°Mr. Russell, your acting skill is quite exceptional


    Strice you agreed to give me to Arnold, why did you chase me to eaner


    She wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against Arnold if I didn¡¯t show up.


    Dexter pressed his cold lips on her soft cheek. He gradually moved his lips downward as he spoke. ¡°You dare to say this to me after making me abandon my principle. You should take back your words.¡±


    Josie felt ufortably warm all over her body. She looked up at Dexter and smelled his clean scent. ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    His hands caressed upwards from her waist, causing her mind to go nk briefly. She heard Dexter¡¯s voice. ¡°You¡¯re more charming in this state.¡±


    He enveloped her in his embrace. She only needed to turn her head slightly to kiss his lips.


    Dexter seemed to have suppressed his desire for a long time. He trembled as passion burned like a raging me within him.


    ¡°I was thinking. I wonder if I have what it takes to entice you.¡± Josie suddenly became brave and sat astride on hisp. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned down to kiss


    him.


    Dexter¡¯s body immediately stiffened even more.


    ¡°Seems like I do.¡± Josie bit his lips gently before kissing him again. She coaxed him to part his lips and slipped her tongue in, gradually heightening their kisses. ¡°Dexter, your lips are soft. No matter how harsh your words are, your lips remain soft. I¡¯ve tested it just now.¡±


    The veins on Dexter¡¯s forehead throbbed violently. He could not look away from her alluring form, taking in her every expression.


    Suddenly, he hugged her waist and returned her kisses. He kissed her harder, deeper, and more aggressively than she did.


    ¡°How dare you.¡± Dexter tasted the red wine in her mouth and kissed her intensely. He soon wiped out all traces of red wine and filled her mouth with his tobo smell. There was only his mark left on her body.


    After kissing for three minutes, their breaths grew heavy, and they seemed on the cusp of advancing to the next stage. Josie sensed that Dexter was losing control of his desire. She held his hands to stop him from unbuttoning her shirt. ¡°We can¡¯t do it here.¡±

 Chapter 171

    Chapter 171 Inevitable MattersExclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Dexter paused and lifted his gaze from her embrace, his eyes filled with desire.


    Josie¡¯s cheeks bloomed red, her voice trembling. ¡°Not here. We are at Arnold Carter¡¯s ce.¡±


    It was audacious of him to act so freely in the enemy¡¯s domain,pletely disregarding the influence of the Carter Group.


    Dexter withdrew his hand, their foreheads touching. He spoke huskily, ¡°Are you afraid of him seeing us?¡±


    Josie struggled to grasp the meaning behind his words, unsure if he cared more about her fear of someone catching them or Arnold, in particr, seeing them. She pondered her response carefully, ¡°Yes¡­ I¡¯m afraid of someone seeing us.¡±


    Hearing her answer, he grew cautious and tightened his hold on her waist. ¡°Let¡¯s go home


    first.¡±


    While their actions in Heaven on Earth might¡¯ve passed off as ambiguous, their actions this time would be too difficult to conceal. It was hard to hide the chemistry between them.


    Josie wasn¡¯t naive. She knew the reason why Dexter had turned up at Carter Group.


    Carter¡¯s elevator overlooked the breathtaking scenery of Wavery. Josie instinctively grasped. onto his clothes in the empty elevator as she looked through the transparent ss. Dexter tightened his embrace in return.


    ¡°Did Arnold Carter bring you up here the same way?¡±


    Regaining herposure, Josie could finally think clearer. She looked up and smiled. cheekily, ¡°Mr. Russell, could I interpret what you said as you being jealous, if I may be so blunt?¡±


    With marks still visible on her neck, her smiling face resembled a blossoming flower bud. Dexter averted his gaze, feeling restless. ¡°Who said I¡¯m jealous?¡±


    ¡°Is that so? It seems that I¡¯m the only one that¡¯s jealous every day,¡± Josie quickly replied, yfully teasing.


    ¡°Whom are you jealous of?¡±


    She actually pondered for a moment. Dexter had never behaved inappropriately to anyone. else, so there was no target for her to me on. ¡°Perhaps Ms. Miller. You two are always


    parable Who knows if you two are into office y, just like Mr. Yves


    Unlock seeded


    s in secret that nobody knows of¡±


    As Josie verbalized her thoughts, her fantasies grew wilder.


    Dexter sneered, ¡°You know quite a lot. You¡¯ve entertained these thoughts often during work, huh?¡±


    She pouted, ¡°What. I¡¯m not even allowed to ck for a bit now?¡±


    Dexter remained silent, yet his grip on her waist tightened.


    Undeterred, Josie persisted with her questions as they headed back to Mason Garden. ¡°Please do enlighten me, Mr. Russell. Why did youe here by yourself? Were you looking for me just now?¡±


    Dexter stared at the traffic ahead, a hint of awkwardness appearing on his usually calm face. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking.¡±


    Josie deliberately rubbed against him, her persistence growing. ¡°At the racecourse, when you saw me with Arnold Carter, were you surprised?¡±


    He nced at her sideways, his voice turning cold, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you two were there in the first ce; it was a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°Then, when you rode your horse and bumped into me, were you angry with me?¡±


    Josie¡¯s courage inexplicably grew for some reason.


    Dexter cast a sidelong nce at her, his voice and expression distant. ¡°You are one of the Russells and mywful wife. I don¡¯t like others tainting what is mine, so how is it wrong to be angry?¡±


    His possessiveness sent shivers down Josie¡¯s spine; hence, she restrained herself, ¡°But¡­ I somehow feel like Arnold Carter already knows about our marriage.¡±


    Dexter wasn¡¯t surprised; he was always prepared for everything. ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time. before he finds out.¡±


    Josie paused momentarily, realizing that henceforth, she was no longer just Josie-she would. also be known as Dexter¡¯s wife. She couldn¡¯t just behave however she wanted anymore.


    When they returned to Mason Garden, the lights were still on, and Marilyn was dozing off in the living room.

 Chapter 172

    Chapter 172 A Night Spent Together


    Startled by the noise, she quickly approached them. ¡°What time is it? It¡¯s already three in the morning. Where did you two go?¡±


    Caught off guard, Josie exchanged a nce with Dexter. ¡°I¡­ I was apanying Dex for


    some matters.¡±


    Marilyn grew suspicious. ¡°You got me worried. I thought something had happened.¡±


    ¡°Marilyn, you don¡¯t have to wait for us; your body needs rest. Go to bed early, alright,¡± Dexter calmly stated, unbothered to exin further.


    Seeing them, Marilyn felt reassured. However, as they headed upstairs, she grabbed Josie¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°Did you two have a fight?¡±


    Stunned by her abrupt question, Josie fiddled with her fingers awkwardly and stammered, ¡°¡­No, we didn¡¯t.¡±


    but you


    didn¡¯t show up. you, ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me. Dex came back in the evening and waited for Then he went out driving again. Tell me the truth, did the two of you have a fight?¡± Marilyn insisted.


    Josie was surprised. She hadn¡¯t expected that Dexter would make an effort to find her. ¡°Um¡­ I guess so.¡±


    Marilyn smiled, her attention fixated on the red mark on Josie¡¯s neck. ¡°A little quarrel can spice things up. It shows that Dex likes you. Now go to sleep.¡±


    Josie blushed. She had never even considered that Dexter would have an interest in her. Marilyn was bold to think that way.


    Josie became somewhat self-conscious when sharing the same room again. But unlike the sizzling air from before in Carter¡¯s resting lounge, the space in between them appeared more tranquil since Dexter didn¡¯t seem to have any intentions to pursue further. Hey beside her and said, ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but think that if they had continued earlier, she might have been willing to oblige. After all these years, she wasn¡¯t ignorant about matters between a man and a woman. Besides, Dexter had good looks and an incredible physique. She wouldn¡¯t have been at a loss either way.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Josie responded, listening to the gentle breaths from the man beside her.


    In the darkness, after a while, the man¡¯srge hand reached for her neck, drawing closer with a gentle touch. ¡°Sleep.¡±


    Josie silently chuckled. Dexter¡¯s arm was incredibly soft, morefortable than a pillow. She turned to her side and said, ¡°Goodnight, Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight.¡±


    The following day, Josie believed that Dexter had already left. Still, to her surprise, she found his sleeping face beside her when she opened her eyes. Sensing her movement, he slowly lifted his eyelids, his voice husky from waking up. ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    They were still in the same position as the previous night. Josie boldly touched his furrowed brows. ¡°Is your hand sore?¡±


    Dexter seemed to have just remembered his hand and attempted to move it, furrowing his brows with a slight smile. ¡°It¡¯s numb.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help butugh, quickly sitting up. ¡°It¡¯s still early. Are you having breakfast at home today?¡±


    Dexter nodded while stretching his arms, thinking about the day¡¯s schedules.


    ¡°What do you want to eat? I¡¯ll ask Marilyn to prepare it.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you want. I¡¯ll have the same as you,¡± Dexter got up and headed to the bathroom to freshen up. Josie happily descended the stairs, her smile never fading.


    His way of being affectionate was peculiar, but she understood that it was his own way of expressing care for her.


    After breakfast, Dexter put on his coat, heading to Russell Group. Josie stood on tiptoes and helped him tie his tie, asking in a mellifluous voice, ¡°Can I go with you? I find the house too boring.¡±


    Dexter squinted and nced at her arm. ¡°When can you have the cast removed?¡±


    She thought for a moment. ¡°Another week.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll apany you then and take the opportunity to visit your father,¡± Dexter replied.


    Josie jumped with joy, her mind racing. ¡°You didn¡¯t refuse me!¡±


    Dexter made a soft grunt and walked straight toward the outside of the vi. Autumn had arrived, with the leaves of the phoenix trees turning yellow and forming a beautiful, connectedndscape. The panoramic scene before them was breathtaking, and the air felt refreshing.

 Chapter 173

    Chapter 173 Getting Bribed


    Josie trailed behind him, brimming with joy and energy.


    While Dexter attended to business matters in the car the was bored and took selfies with her phone identally, he ended up in the frame, and the unexpected harmony of the picture surprised her. She saved it and set it to private viewing only.


    Entering the office with Dexter, the secretaries found her presence peculiar She quickly exined. ¡°Oh, hi! I¡¯m here for work.¡±


    That exnation seemed reasonable, and no one dwelled on it further except for Ivy Miller. She was well aware of the rtionship between the two and couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of sadness.


    Did he really have to bring her along everywhere, even for work?


    Taking a deep breath, she nced at the woman seated in the reception area, engrossed in her phone, before approaching Dexter. ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Speak, Dexter responded.


    Ivy hesitated, her words caught in her throat.


    Dexter quickly grasped what she meant, casting a gentle gaze at Josie. ¡°She can know whatever you¡¯re about to tell me.¡±


    ¡°But, Mr. Russell¡­ it¡¯s really not appropriate, Ivy voiced her concerns.


    Previously, Ivy believed that she and Dexter were the only ones who sharedmon topics within the Russell Group. Though their discussions revolved around work, they were primarilymercial secrets. It was like sharing something intimate with Dexter. However, now there was someone else who took that privilege from her.


    Sensing the tense atmosphere, Josie snapped back to reality. ¡°Should I step outside?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned grim, prompting Ivy to restrain herself. She took a deep breath and spoke solemnly, ¡°There¡¯s no need.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we have discovered that Mr. Yves has been epting bribes. He had been livingvishly, going on luxury trips, but he shouldn¡¯t be able to afford them with such a modest sry.¡±


    ¡°How much money was he bribed with?¡± Dexter pressed his temple


    He sneered, ¡°Thirty million. Arnold Carter sure is generous when ites to such matters.¡±


    At this point, Josie interjected, her keen perception catching onto the shift in the atmosphere. ¡°Arnold probably wasn¡¯t directly involved. That day at the hospital, Mr. Yves mentioned that they had only met once.¡± It was likely that Arnold had ordered one of his subordinates to carry out the act.


    Upon hearing this, Dexter and Ivy turned their gaze toward her simultaneously.


    Raising an eyebrow, Dexter asked, ¡°You remember it so clearly. Are you trying to defend him?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? I¡¯m just stating the facts, not trying to mislead you,¡± Josie replied fearlessly, unafraid of the consequences.


    Ivy hadn¡¯t expected that Josie would have a connection to Arnold Carter.


    Dexter retracted his gaze. He asked, ¡°Has he got anything to do with the car ident?¡±


    Ivy froze, gritting her teeth. ¡°Yes, we discovered he had a romantic rtionship with ire Wilcher, and she¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Gather the evidence,¡± Dexter¡¯s expression turned cold. pile it and send it to his wife.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Ivy paused momentarily before continuing, ¡°We are already preparing to acquire Landon. Should we reassess the background of all personnel involved?¡±


    ¡°No need. That is Arnold Carter¡¯sst resort; he has no hidden moves left.¡±


    ¡°Why do you think so?¡±


    ¡°At this very moment, he¡¯s in London, feeling the heat of the situation,¡± Dexter spoke calmly, a glint of malice crossing his eyes. ¡°Assassins prefer to strike in autumn because the wind is strong, and blood dries quickly.¡±


    After concluding the work report, Ivy passed by Josie, taking a deep breath. Two of her best cards were wasted because of Josie. She couldn¡¯t help but feel a great sense of resentment towards her.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, what would you like to drink?¡±


    Josie sensed a hint of stubbornness from her stern expression, understanding its meaning as women naturally do. She responded with a hint of yfulness, ¡°Thank you, Ms. Miller. Just water will do.¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Ivy didn¡¯t reply and turned away, leaving the room.


    Josie tapped her leg with her fingers, reflecting on the few encounters with Ivy. It seemned that Ivy did not like her.

 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174 Dexter Might Not Like Me


    She turned her gaze, propping herself against the couch to observe Dexter. The morning light streamed through the tall windows, casting a golden glow upon his brow. Josie finally understood why people said that men dedicated to their work were the most attractive.


    She pondered for a moment but refrained from voicing her thoughts.


    Ivy returned to the secretary¡¯s office, and several people noticed her troubled expression. They couldn¡¯t help asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did Mr. Russell lose his temper?¡±


    ¡°I would rather he lose his temper, honestly,¡± Ivy forced a smile. ¡°it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    She was walking towards the pantry to pour water when her phone rang. ncing at the caller ID, she immediately answered, lowering her voice to reprimand, ¡°What do think you¡¯re doing?¡±


    you


    The person on the other end said something, further infuriating Ivy. ¡°I simply asked you toThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    stop


    her from attending that meeting. And you hired someone to crash into her with a damn car? Things wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this if you weren¡¯t so stupid!¡±


    ¡°You dare me me now? me yourself for giving me a handle. I wouldn¡¯t have had a chance to threaten you if you hadn¡¯t gotten yourself all over that man.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do this anymore. Mr. Russell¡¯s given strict orders. Both of you are finished,¡± Ivy sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t you ever call me again.¡±


    The person on the other end became hysterical, continuing to argue. Ivy¡¯s anger rose, her chest heaving. ¡°ire Wilcher! Stop making a scene, would you? Go ahead, report me. Let¡¯s see if Mr. Russell believes you or believes in me.¡±


    With that, she abruptly ended the call, only to notice water overflowing onto the floor. Snapping back to reality, she picked up the cup and turned around, but at that moment, she saw a figure standing at the doorway, causing her to take a step back in fright.


    Leaning against the door, Josie shrugged innocently. ¡°Oh, Ms. Miller, you were taking too long grabbing that ss of water. I thought I could save you the trouble ande over myself. Hope you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heartbeat hammered repeatedly, and she quivered, ¡°¡­You heard.¡±


    Her voice tightened, and Josieughed, her body trembling with mocked amusement. However, a seething rage was consuming her inside. ¡°I never expected that you were the one that was behind all these, Ms. Miller. You disguised it so well, without a single w.¡±


    Unlock seeded


    bed the water cup, her face turn


    Wilcher out of it. I had no part in what happened.¡±


    ¡°I believe you,¡± Josie responded quickly.


    ¡°You¡­ you believe me?¡± Ivy¡¯s voice cracked, unable to believe her words.


    ¡°Not only do I believe you, but I believe Dexter will also believe you. After all,


    you truly didn¡¯t do anything.¡± Josie took slow steps forward, evading Ivy¡¯s personal space with each step. ¡°And aside from that, you have helped me when things happened. Even though I¡¯m now aware you were the one that started all these, neither he nor I have any reason to me you.¡±


    Her cid understanding made Ivy even more anxious, her breathing quickening. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want anything,¡± Josie paced around her slowly. ¡°I won¡¯t dwell on this matter or tell Dexter. But I want you to know¡ª¡±


    ¡°Now that I¡¯m already married to him, and it¡¯s a done deal, you should stop your pointless struggle. I value my life and don¡¯t want to lose my life for some foolish reasons,¡± she raised her voice, her tone heavy. ¡°Dexter doesn¡¯t like you and might not like me either. But until everything is over, please refrain from plotting against me, alright? Let¡¯s just do our jobs as well as we should. What do you think?¡±


    Ivy stared intently at her cunning face, gritting her teeth. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it. There¡¯s no way you haven¡¯t developed feelings for him. He¡¯s such a perfect man.¡±


    Josie paused, then smiled as if that were indeed the case.

 Chapter 175

    Chapter 175 A Light Kiss


    ¡°So what? Look at yourself. You love and care for him so much, but what do you have to show for it? Has he ever reciprocated or shown the same feelings for you?¡±


    Ivy¡¯s heart sank as Josie¡¯s words hit her like a dagger.


    Still grappling with the hurt, Ivy pressed on, needing confirmation, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not catching feelings for him?¡±


    Frustrated with Ivy¡¯s ongoing doubts and insecurity, Josie impulsively snatched the ss of water from her hand and walked off without a word.


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    Ivy suddenly called out, her voice trailing behind, ¡°And what about him? Does he have any feelings for you?¡±


    Ivy couldn¡¯t ignore the red gs raised by Dexter¡¯s recent behavior.


    Josie pursed her lips and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t quite sure how to maneuver this delicate love triangle, assuming that giving Ivy a forewarning as such would be enough. Despite Ivy¡¯s strong affection for Dexter and her desire to remain close to him, somehow, Josie knew that Ivy wouldn¡¯t act impulsively and target her.


    At this point, Josie was certain that Ivy wouldn¡¯t pose any threat to her safety.


    Dexter had a meeting in the afternoon. When he returned, he couldn¡¯t find Josie in his office. He furrowed his brow and walked into the lounge, where he discovered her sleeping on the couch.


    This girl must have been tired from staying uptest night.


    A twinge of sympathy tugged at him. Dexter grabbed a thin nket and gently draped it over her, only to find that his well-intentioned action roused the light sleeper.


    Feeling parched, Josie yawned and mumbled, ¡°Ah, you¡¯re back¡­¡±


    Dexter lowered his gaze, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you sleep in the room?¡±


    Josie was abashed, ¡°I said I¡¯d keep youpany while you work. Look at me¡­ ended dozing off. Oops.¡±


    Unlock seeded


    ad that you knew


    He


    d


    up


    and handed it to her.


    Josie took it, surprised. ¡°How did you know I was thirsty?¡±


    ¡°Your lips are dry.¡± He shrugged casually, nced at her quickly, and moistened his lips. In an instant, a wave of restlessness washed over him. He furrowed and averted his gaze.


    Josie quenched her thirst and smiled as she asked, ¡°Are you done? Can we go home already?¡±


    Dexter chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re like a little kid counting the minutes until ss is over.¡±


    Sheughed, ¡°That¡¯s exactly how I was back in school. When the bell rang, I would race out of the ssroom!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile gradually faded. He couldn¡¯t help but think of Leanne. When Leanne was still around, she was just like Josie. She wasn¡¯t keen on academics and always needed a push to focus on her studies. To Leanne, nothing was more important than having fun.


    He instinctively asked, ¡°How were your grades back then?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Dol even need to say? I always ranked first in my ss, alright!¡± Josie raised her thumb, beaming with pride.


    Dexter tugged at his lips, masking a hint of agony in his heart. He stood up, saying, ¡°I need another two hours, and then we can wrap up the work and go home.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Before Dexter could walk away, Josie suddenly called out to him. He turned around and saw. her leaping over. The next second, he felt a peck on his lips, with her delicate hands cupped on his cheeks, ¡°I¡¯ll be right here waiting for you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s heart raced. Although it was just a superficial peck on the lips, it sent butterflies fluttering inside him.


    He ran his fingers across his lips, a surprised smile forming, ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve.¡±


    The culprit beamed a mischievous grin at him, delighted with the sess of her yful act.


    In the following days, Josie stopped apanying Dexter at the Russell Group. It was too ostentatious and boring, not nearly as exciting as her modeling gigs.


    But no matter how busy Dexter was, he always came home in the evening and slept beside her. His arm would be her designated pillow cushioned under her head, providing a sense of security. Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel distressed at the thought that his tenderness might fade one day, leaving her deeply saddened.


    The mere thought of that day approaching caused her present sense of happiness to fade suddenly, reced by a hollow emptiness.


    Only then did she grasp the meaning of ¡®extreme joy often leads to profound pain.

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176 He Rushed Back


    In the blink of an eye, a week had gone by. It was time for Josie to have her ster cast removed. In the early morning. Marilyn had been busy preparing the necessity and


    apanying Josie to the hospital. Meanwhile, Josie sat at the dining table, absentmindedly picking at her breakfast.


    Last night, Dexter messaged her, telling her not to wait as he would pull an all-nighter at an important business function. But now it was morning, and he still hadn¡¯t returned.


    Didn¡¯t they agree that he would go with her to the hospital?


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Jo? You look so down. Is something bothering you?¡± Marilyn noticed Josie¡¯s expression. She was concerned and quickly sat beside her.


    Josie mustered a smile, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. You¡¯ve been taking care of me all this time. Once I fully recover, you¡¯ll have to return to Russell Mansion. I just feel a bit sad about you leaving


    so soon.¡±


    Josie¡¯s words brought a smile to Marilyn¡¯s face.


    She let out a doting sigh and gently sped Josie¡¯s hand, saying, ¡°I like you a lot too. But Old Mr. Russell needs someone to look after him back home. I must return to him after leaving him alone for so long.¡±


    Josie nodded, understanding the responsibility.


    ¡°In these past few days. I¡¯ve seen how your rtionship with Dex has evolved. He¡¯s not someone who artictes or easily acknowledges his feelings. To be frank, his aloof and distant nature makes it even harder for him to fall in love.¡± Marilyn said earnestly. Josie muttered in her heart, ¡®But he has someone special in his heart, someone he cares deeply about.¡±


    he¡¯ll ¡°But Dex likes you, and that¡¯s the most important thing. Don¡¯t worry, when he likes you, go above and beyond to please you. Even if it means reaching for the impossible. Just trust him, Jo. Although it might be challenging at times, just know that everything will work out. If possible, please bear with his asional bouts of anger.¡±


    Marilyn¡¯s well-meaning advice stirred a bittersweet feeling in Josie¡¯s heart. She nodded gratefully and said, ¡°Thanks, Marilyn, I will remember that.¡±


    However, a nagging worry lingered in Josie¡¯s mind that she might disappoint Marilyn¡¯s expectations and trust.


    Aware that she was running behind schedule for her hospital appointment, Josie grew


    ed and decided not to wait any longer Unlock seeded


    Just as they were about to leave the premises, they spotted Dexter¡¯s Porsche approaching from a distance. Marilyn eximed, ¡°There! Dex is back!¡±


    Surprised, a flicker of joy illuminated Josie¡¯s eyes as she rushed towards the car and grabbed the door handle. ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Despite the fatigue evident in his furrowed brows, as if he hadn¡¯t slept all night, Dexter¡¯s weariness dissipated when he saw Josie. He beamed and said, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be running with your injury.¡±


    ¡°Why did youe back sote?¡± Josie ignored his scrutiny and quizzed him.


    ¡°The business negotiation went on throughout the night,¡±


    Josie sniffed, ¡°And you¡¯ve been drinking.¡±


    ¡°Mm. Just a bit.¡±


    She believed him because, given his status, not many people dared to pressure him into drinking. On the contrary, these people should count their blessings that he didn¡¯t chug booze down on them and make them go on a wild bender.


    Dexter pushed open the car door and motioned for her to get in, ¡°Come on in. We should head to the hospital now.¡±


    Josie nodded eagerly. After waiting all morning, she was overjoyed as her anticipation was finally fulfilled!


    Upon arriving at the hospital, they found a considerable crowd and had to wait in line. Josie held onto Dexter¡¯s hand as they sat in the corridor.


    Holding Josie¡¯s appointment card, Dexter had attracted envious nces directed at Josie with his striking good looks.


    ¡°Was it the Landon case that kept you in an all-night discussion?¡± She pried.


    With evident fatigue in his eyes that softened his typically imposing demeanor, ¡°You could say that. It¡¯s got something to do with the Ardon family.¡±


    No wonder the discussionsted all night; it must be rted to the political sphere.


    Josie felt a tinge of concern.


    ¡°Will you be implicated and investigated by the police? These cases aren¡¯t trivial. I¡¯ve heard simr cases where the police would dig through several generations of the family.¡±


    Dexter chuckled at her innocent remark. He reclined, finally able to unwind after a night of


    work. ¡°Not at all. They won¡¯t find anything on me. But Arnold will be in deep sh*t for what he¡¯s done.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    To put it bluntly. Josie knew that Dexter wouldn¡¯t let Arnold off the hook for his actions. He would ensure that Arnold faced the consequences of his crimes without suffering any losses to himself.

 Chapter 177

    Chapter 177 Promotion to Director


    As they waited, Josie leaned closer and quizzed, ¡°What¡¯s the deal with the Ardon farmily?¡±


    The queue was crawling along, and soon, a nurse approached them. She politely said, ¡°Mr. Russell, the hospital director mentioned that you could bypass the protocol. Please let me know if you need immediate attention, and F¡¯ll make the necessary arrangements.¡±


    Her words were veiled, but Dexter and Josie understood.


    Dexter nced at the crowd and declined with a wave of his hand, ¡°No need for that. We¡¯ll wait like everyone else.¡±


    The nurse nodded and moved on.


    Josie always thought he would take advantage of his status and seek special treatment, but today, his humility surprised her. Sitting beside him, she couldn¡¯t help but admire Dexter¡¯s down-to-earth attitude.


    She gave him a thumbs-up, to which he simply beamed and didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Then, in a hushed voice, Dexter shifted back to their previous conversation, ¡°The higher authorities have their sights set on them. The Ardon family is definitely going to face severe consequences this time.¡±


    No wonder Arnold would also be in trouble. These intricate andplex webs of interests were bound to have far-reaching repercussions.


    Dexter¡¯s weary face carried a sense of ease, signaling that he was content. It seemed like victory was well within his reach.


    Atst, it was Josie¡¯s turn. The doctor nced at her X-ray and prepared to remove the cast. The process didn¡¯t take long; throughout it, Dexter stood faithfully by her side, his gaze patient and unwavering.


    Afterwards, Josie flexed her limbs as the cast came off, feeling significantly at ease andfortable.


    Her heart skipped a beat when they locked eyes.


    For years, she had grown ustomed to being independent, going to school alone, eating out by herself, and even visiting doctors unapanied. She had managed so much on her own. But now, with him beside her, she felt an overwhelming sense of security.


    The doctor briefed her on post-care instructions. On the side, Dexter stealthilymitted the doctor¡¯s reminders to memory. Then, they left the hospital together.


    ¡°Who would have expected the busy and esteemed Mr. Russell would personally apany me for a follow-up check at the hospital, Josie quipped, yfully trailing behind him. Now that the cast was removed, she could move more freely.


    Dexter joined the banter with a smirk, ¡°Who knew the esteemed Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t need someone to feed him but can eat on his own.¡±


    His impromptu cheesyeback made her burst intoughter.


    Once they got in the car, Dexter casually handed her a document.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Josie opened it and realized it was a contract-an appointment letter for her as the new director of the design department.


    ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    The man rubbed his temple and uttered, ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s for you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ But why promote me now? You realize it¡¯s going to stir up gossip and spection about our rtionship, right?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve helped thepany secure the Sylmark project. It¡¯s a major win! Plus, no one in the department is more qualified for this position than you.¡±


    Dexter looked into her eyes and said, ¡°Josie, I believe in you.¡±


    No extravagant expressions were needed, just a sincere and straightforward deration of trust. Yet, it lifted Josie¡¯s spirits to cloud nine.


    Dexter¡¯s opinion had a significant effect on her sense of self-worth and overall happiness.


    ¡°Your trust means a lot to me.¡±


    He raised an eyebrow and shed a radiant smile. Seeing Josie¡¯s smile and happiness made him happy too.


    After the cast was removed, Josie headed to the Russell Group to report for her new role the next day.


    At the office, Alice was the first to congratte Josie on her promotion. She gave Josie a bear hug as she eximed, ¡°Congrattions, Jo! I¡¯m so happy for you!¡±


    Almost out of breath, Josie interrupted Alice from her over-expression. ¡°Okay, okay. This is getting embarrassing. People are staring at us.¡±


    Alice released her and nced back at the curious onlookers in the department


    ¡°Let them! You¡¯re the department director now. There¡¯s no doubt that you are well qualifed for this role! And who dares to say otherwise?¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    A woman walked by and jeered. Tsk. Who knows how long you¡¯llst


    It was one of ire¡¯s teammates.


    Alice wanted to fire back, but Josie held her back. She shook her head at Alice and replied the woman. ¡°Only time will tell

 Chapter 178

    Chapter 178 Outwitted by Jesse


    Since taking on her new role, Josie had been swamped with work every single day. Dexter was equally busy, and they hadn¡¯t seen each other in a few days.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Alice, being the person in charge of a brand coboration and the progress of an advertisement, had been pestering Josie, ¡°Why don¡¯t youe with me? Jesse Abbott, the famous celebrity, will be participating in the ad shoot.¡±


    The name rang a bell in Josie, ¡°Oh? Is Jesse Abbott a guy or a woman?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a woman,¡± Alice whispered, ¡°and there were rumors that she was dating Mr. Russell after they walked the red carpet together at an awards ceremony. The media exploded the next day, dubbing her his alleged girlfriend.¡±


    Josie cringed at the idea of Dexter having a rumored girlfriend, ¡°For real?¡±


    ¡°Who knows? But I bet she¡¯d be dying to im Mr. Russell hers since she¡¯s been crushing on him.¡±


    Unable to resist Alice¡¯s persuasion, Josie then reluctantly agreed to visit her at the filming site once her work ended.


    The shooting location was in amercial district, so she brought a cup of hot cocoa on the


    way.


    When Josie saw Jesse, she finally remembered that she used to take on Jesse¡¯s project to design an apartment when she was still a junior designer.


    At that time, Josie busied herself with sketching for a solid two weeks, but in the end, Jesse abruptly terminated the project.


    Consequently, Jesse¡¯s action infuriated Josie. Filled with anger, she took to the Inte to expose Jesse¡¯s exploitation of her professional work. The onlinemunity rallied behind Josie, leading to a significant bacsh against Jesse.


    Josie never expected to reencounter Jesse, let alone see her rise to fame as a well-known celebrity.


    Upon hearing the story, Alice felt sympathy and resentment for Josie. She couldn¡¯t help and shot a disdainful nce at Jesse, who was busy posing for the camera. With a resentful tone, Alice remarked, ¡°Yeah, she may have good looks, but her vanity and thirst for attention make me gag.¡±


    was the only one bold enough to express her disdain.


    Sensing the piercing gaze of Jesse¡¯s manager from afar, Josie immediately signaled for Alice to tone it down and maintain a low-key demeanor to avoid any potential offense.


    Alice, known for her quick wit, devised a mischievous n. She nonchntly settled at the director¡¯sputer, offeringments that appeared objective and casually constructive. Little did they know, she was up to no good, covertly attempting to sabotage Jesse. Much to everyone¡¯s surprise, the director adopted Alice¡¯s suggestions and had Jesse redo several takes.


    As a result, Jesse¡¯s cheeks were sore from the prolonged filming, and her annoyance became evident as she lost herposure.


    ¡°Hey, are you friends with the director?¡± Jesse approached and scrutinized Alice.


    Alice grinned and said slyly, ¡°Oh, not at all. But it seems like the director found my suggestions useful. You probably thought so, too, right?¡±


    Josie almost burst outughing at Alice¡¯s wittyeback.


    Finally given a twenty-minute break, Jesse skipped resting and went straight to Alice without bothering to take even a sip of water, ¡°Do I know you?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Uh¡­ Nope,¡± Alice was taken aback by Jesse¡¯s sudden question. She blinked her eyes, pretending innocence with acting skills that surpassed those of movie stars.


    ¡°Are you one of my haters, then?¡± Jesse probed with suspicion.


    Her crude questioning left everyone cringing, including Alice and the crew members w earshot.


    Jesse took a deep breath, attempting topose herself. She nced around and caught sight of Josie, who had remained silent throughout.


    Narrowing her eyes, Jesse felt a surge of unpleasant memories rushing back.


    I remember this woman! She was the reason I got bacsh from theizen and used me of being cheap for canceling the project! Jesse thought to herself bitterly.


    Josie locked eyes with Jesse and calmly responded, ¡°What a coincidence. Never thought we¡¯d cross paths again, Ms. Abbott.¡±


    Jesse¡¯s gaze shifted between Alice and Josie; her hands balled into fists.


    Having experienced the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, she contained the shame and fury. She remarked, ¡°Well, if that¡¯s what you say, then I can only thank you for the coffee treat you¡¯re offering everyone here. Let¡¯s see¡­ there are about twenty of us here.


    Alice was caught off guard by Jesse¡¯s unexpected response. Unaware of the underlying tension, the surrounding crew cheered, buying into Jesse¡¯s im that Josie would treat them to coffee.


    ¡°You¡­!¡± Alice eximed, annoyance and embarrassment coursing through her. On the other hand, Jesse couldn¡¯t help but sh a triumphant smirk at her defeated foes.


    To Josie and Alice¡¯s dismay, they were put in a checkmate and outwitted by Jesse.

 Chapter 179

    Chapter 179 Scalded


    Josie quickly grabbed Alice¡¯s arm, intervening and agreeing resignedly, ¡°It¡¯s alright, the treat is on me. No big deal.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to make a fuss about it since it would reflect poorly on Alice and her if they insisted on refusing.


    Alice understood Josie¡¯s concern and refrained from arguing. She cheekily whispered a snarkyment about Jesse in Josie¡¯s car. Alice had prompted a chuckle from Josie, apparently amused by Alice¡¯s remark.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I can handle it.¡±


    Themercial area had plenty of coffee shops. Josie bundled up inyers of coats, shielding herself from the severe chilly wind gusts.


    At the coffee shop, she ordered an array of coffee vors.


    Cup after cup of beverages was handed to Josie by the barista, who was surprised when Josie singled out a specific cup, marked it differently from the others and left it with the lid open to cool.


    Before returning to the filming site, she was given arge foam box to ease the inconvenient transporting task by herself.


    But even with arge foam box at her disposal, it was still quite a challenge to handle over twenty cups by herself¡­.


    Being petite and slender, the sight of her hugging a huge box filled with cups of beverages wasical. She resembled a silly baby penguin as she waddled through the gusts of wind.


    With her injury only partially healed, the task became even more difficult. As a result, she caught the attention of many onlookers passing by.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Upon reaching the filming site, Josie took a pit stop to catch her breath. Feeling embarrassed, she rubbed her nose, thinking she must have looked quite foolish in that situation.


    Meanwhile, not far off, a Lincoln Limousine could be seen parked by the roadside. Arnold, d in a casual outfit, stepped out of the car. However, he was startled as he spotted Josie in the distance. Following his gaze, Ivy was surprised and turned to Dexter in the back seat, saying, ¡°Mr. Russell, isn¡¯t that¡­?¡±


    Back on set the mid-back director permitted Jesse and


    A few crew members were chatting about heading out for a barbecue after filming


    In the dressing room. Jesse was removing her makeup.


    ¡±


    With her work badge hanging around her neck. Alice was casually killing time on her phone and intermittently ncing at the clock, wondering why Josie was taking so long.


    Jesse sat quietly as the makeup artist applied makeup to her, stealing nces at Alice through


    the mirror.


    Suddenly, Jesse¡¯s manager, Ms. Hattie, barged into the room. Slyly ncing at the woman ying on her phone, she patted Jesse¡¯s shoulder and whispered in her ear,


    Jesse appeared stunned at Ms. Hattie¡¯s information, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Ms. Hattie bobbed her head affirmatively.


    A covert glint flickered in Jesse¡¯s eyes as she shoved the makeup artist aside. Then, she grabbed her lipstick and eyebrow pencil and swiftly touched up her makeup.


    Amidst the chaotic scene, she asked Ms. Hattie, ¡°How do I look?¡±


    Ms. Hattie wiped off her smudged eyeliner with her finger, ¡°You look great. Just rx and be confident.¡±


    With that assurance, Jesse straightened up, lifted her skirt, and rushed out in a hurry.


    She even forgot to grab her coat.


    Amid themotion, Ms. Hattie caught wind of Dexter¡¯s arrival at the filming site and hurriedly ryed the news to Jesse.


    Startled by the gust of wind created by Jesse¡¯s hurried dash, Alice paused her phone activity, astonished to see Jesse sprint off impulsively. She swiftly stashed her phone away and trailed after Jesse.


    Jesse was in a state of frenzy, her heart thumping with impatience. She couldn¡¯t wait to see Dexter. The crimson hue on her face revealed her deep infatuation for the man who had captured her heart.


    Caught up in her romantic fantasies and infatuation, Jesse was oblivious to her surroundings. Turning a corner, she unintentionally crashed into someone, resulting in a stumble. It was only then that she realized she was drenched in hot liquid!


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    A shocked scream escaped her in sheer disbelief!


    Themotion caught everyone¡¯s attention.


    The tantalizing scent of coffee filled the air, and as they turned to see what was happening, they were stunned at Jesse¡¯s sorry state.


    Her clothes were soaked in brown liquid, and her delicate skin had turned a fiery red from the scalding.


    Tears streamed down Jesse¡¯s face without a sign of stopping, a testament to the intense pain she was experiencing.

 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180 He Didn''t Help Her


    A crowd rushed forward. Meanwhile, Josie frantically cleaned up the spill with a pack of tissues, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t notice¡­


    Just then, Ivy eximed from the corner, ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡±


    Dexter and Arnold, who had been following Ivy, went pale at the sight. Dexter quickly withdrew his hand from his pocket and came forward.


    Clueless about the preceding events, Dexter was shocked to see Jesse shoving Josie away tearfully. ¡°What is wrong with you? I was just joking with you. Do you have to spill hot coffee all over me? You¡¯re so mean!¡±


    With a believable despair demeanor, Jesse presented herself as a victim, effectively winning over everyone¡¯s trust and support.


    Alice elbowed her way through the crowd and grabbed Josie¡¯s arm, her voice filled with disbelief. ¡°Jo, did you really¡­?¡±


    Josie¡¯s anger boiled up, and she forcefully shrugged off Alice¡¯s grip, ¡°No, I didn¡¯t. She ran into


    me!¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ms. Hattie, with a keen eye, noticed Dexter and seized the chance to point fingers at Josie, ¡°Seriously? How could someone be so despicable as you? Jesse didn¡¯t wrong you; you¡¯re despicable for trying to ruin her!¡±


    Josie stood bewildered, ¡°Instead of ming me, shouldn¡¯t you hurry up and send her to the hospital?¡±


    Ms. Hattie¡¯s eyes burned with fury as she raised her hand at Josie, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare tell me what to do or try to reason with me!¡±


    Just then, someone intervened, stopping her hand in mid-air. A deep voicemanded, ¡°Leave her alone.¡±


    The crowd fell silent. Alice shielded Josie, her voice trembling, ¡°Mr. Carter¡­?¡±


    But Josie noticed another man standing nearby¡­


    But that tall and handsome man didn¡¯t even spare her a nce. He walked up to Jesse, removed his coat, and draped it over her, ¡°Let¡¯s get you to the hospital first.¡±


    Jesse was taken aback, clearly surprised to see him. She instantly adopted an inferior demeanor as if she had been bullied. Mr. Russell? Why are you¡­


    The surroundings erupted in chaos.


    Regardless of the reason for Dexter¡¯s presence at the filming site, his actions seemed to validate the circting rumors about him dating Jesse.


    Dexter said calmly, ¡°I¡¯ve asked Ivy to take care of the rest. Let¡¯s head to the hospital now,¡±


    He nced at Josie before addressing Ms. Hattie, ¡°You¡¯reing with us.¡±


    Withstanding the pain, Jesse shot a devious nce at Josie and hastily clung to the man¡¯s arm, ¡°Mr. Russell, I need you. Please keep mepany at the hospital.¡±


    There was a brief pause before Dexter retracted her arm and patted her shoulder, ¡°Sure.¡±


    Another wave ofmotion ensued.


    Everyone exchanged incredulous nces.


    Josie finally averted her gaze, along with a flicker of hope vanished from her eyes¡­ as if she had lost hope in Dexter.


    Could the rumors be true? Is Dexter really dating Jesse?


    Josie couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that Dexter and Jesse were the perfect fairytale couple destined for each other. At the same time, she was left ying the viinous character who interfered in their love story, despised by all.


    Jesse was the subject of admiration, yet she was stranded with malicious usations.


    Dexter and Jesse had left.


    ¡°Anyone who dares to spread gossip about what happened today will have to deal with me!¡± Arnold¡¯s sharp gaze swept across the crowd, eventually settling on Alice. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Arnold projected an air of dominance and authority. Even someone as bold and courageous as Alice felt a tremor in his presence. She squeezed Josie¡¯s hand reassuringly and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    Then, she set off with Arnold.


    As they tidied up the set, some nosy crew members couldn¡¯t resist gossiping about the incident.


    Josie stood there, feeling isted and disheartened.


    With a detached demeanor, she picked up some tools to clean up the mess.


    Her long hair cascaded down, partially obscuring her ashen face.

 Chapter 181

    Chapter 181 And Back Again


    Someone chimed in. ¡°What were you thinking? Don¡¯t you know Jesse is a famous celebrity and Dexter¡¯s girlfriend? How did you dare to offend her?¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    The question was apanied by a facade of concern, as if the person genuinely cared about Josie¡¯s uncertain future However, it was a veiled mockery, pretending to extend sympathy while secretly reveling in the spectacle.


    Before Josie could react, the person had disappeared into the crowd.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but sh a bitter smile in a secluded corner. She even felt a subtle sense of relief. Thank God nobody knew she was Mrs. Russell. Otherwise, the mocking onlookers would have caused an uproar.


    Upon reaching the parking lot, Dexter immediately distanced himself from Jesse with a stoic face, ¡°Go on your own. There will be someone there to take care of your hospitalization.¡±


    Casting an indifferent nce at her scalded injury, he remarked disdainfully. ¡°Doesn¡¯t seem very badly scalded anyway.¡±


    Considering the coffee had endured wind gusts and caused only a minor spill, how hot could it have been?


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡±


    Jesse was taken aback by his sudden cold and distant demeanor. Weren¡¯t they just sharing a


    tender moment?


    Dexter felt disgusted to even talk to her, let alone hold her now, ¡°Mind your words. You should know when to create a buzz for publicity and when to keep quiet!¡±


    With that, he left without sparing her a nce.


    Hastily, he retraced their path as if in a hurry.


    Meanwhile, Ivy gave Jesse a meaningful nce and said, ¡°We should go now, Ms. Abbott. Don¡¯t dy your treatment.¡±


    A mix of emotions swirled within her. Jesse felt beyond furious.


    The working crew had dispersed at the filming site, yet Alice had not returned.


    Josie had finished cleaning up the mess. As she stood up, she felt a twinge of pain in her waist


    To her surprise, someone swiftly took the box from her as she turned around.


    When Josie looked


    <ol>


    <li>she saw a familiar man with the usual coldness on his face.</li>


    </ol>


    She faked a smile and sneered, ¡°Wow, impressive. I see you already whisking your girlfriend away to the hospital, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond, casually cing the cardboard box in the corridor¡¯s corner. With indifference, he remarked, ¡°Someone will clean it up.¡±


    Noticing Josie¡¯s hesitance, he turned back and found her staring at him, ¡°I don¡¯t get it.¡±


    Dexter stood before the backlight, and his expression masked.


    Josie maintained a defensive stance, still holding a grudge against his previous actions.


    While Dexter was approaching Josie, a sneer formed on her lips. ¡°I spilled and scalded her with hot coffee. Why are you not at the hospital caring for her but here bothering me?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t reserve her sharp retort and sarcasm.


    With Dexter standing so close, his masculine aura surrounded Josie, prompting tension in her spine. Her instinct was to step back, but Dexter had firmly gripped her wrist.


    He remarked, ¡°Do you know you sounded like a jealous wife?¡±


    His revtion dawned on Josie.


    Angry and wanting to conceal her feelings, she quickly rolled her eyes and said dismissively, ¡°How presumptuous of you.¡±


    Dexter held her hand tightly and led her along, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go


    home.¡±


    Without further discussion, he led her away. No room for objections.


    ¡°You should go to the hospital now.¡±


    The man remained silent.


    ¡°What are you doing, Dexter? Let go of me!¡±


    Silence, once again.


    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting for my friend toe back!¡±


    No response.


    Giving up on her struggle, Josie choked when he mentioned Henry. ¡®Did Grandpa call you? He¡¯s at Mason Garden now.¡±


    The news caught her off guard.


    It wasn¡¯t until they reached the ground floor that Josie realized she was looking disheveled, trying to match his long strides, ¡°What does it have to do with me? I¡¯m not going


    back!¡±


    Dexter abruptly stopped, his gaze darkening. ¡°I dare you to say again!¡±

 Chapter 182

    Chapter 182 Stirring up Publicity


    Dexter pushed her into the car and swiftly settled into the driver¡¯s seat, locking all the doors. to prevent any escape attempts from Josie.


    Josie seethed with anger and gave him the cold shoulder, refusing to acknowledge hispresence.Temporarily, Dexter didn¡¯t rush to start the car. He rummaged through the glove


    Josie hesitated momentarily, observing his flustered demeanor, and reluctantly extended her hand. His anger escted as he shouted, ¡°The other hand!¡±


    It seemed he had noticed all along¡­


    Josie also suffered a scalding from the coffee spill, with a significant red mark on her hand. Yet, everyone seemed solely focused on Jesse¡¯s well-being, neglecting her pain.


    It was hard for Josie toprehend that Dexter had been aware of her scalding.


    Witnessing Josie¡¯s surrender, the man appeared to soften as he gently took hold of her other hand, carefully applying the cooling ointment to her burn. Emotions stirred within him, leaving him at a loss for words.


    Navigating cautiously through the challenging weather, the man drove at a slow pace, ensuring their safety on the road.


    Stuck in her seat with no escape, Josie leaned back, her mind wandering to memories of her younger days. She reminisced about a time when her father had dabbled in the world of non-religious spirituality, taking her to see a tarot card reader during her high school years.


    During the reading, the tarot card reader confidently dered, ¡°The cards reveal that you¡¯lle across a benefactor who will bring abundance and smoothness to your life,¡± the tarot card reader confidently announced, leaving Josie¡¯s father delighted by the positive revtion and generous tip as a token of gratitude for the optimistic prediction.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel ted by the positive outlook. However, in light of recent events, her heart sank.


    Unable to hold back any longer, Josie mustered the courage to confront Dexter, her voice tinged with disappointment, ¡°Why did you help Jesse back there? Don¡¯t you realize everyone thinks something is going on between you both?¡±


    Unlock seeded


    zed, not even


    connection with my family. Stirring up a scandal can boost publicity.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief at Dexter¡¯s exnation. She never anticipated such a response. ¡°Dexter, were all those tender moments between us just illusions?¡±


    +15 Bonus


    Had their intimate moments been nothing but a facade? How could he be so indifferent to her emotions?This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Dexter pursed his lips, unsure of her meaning. ¡°I¡¯m simply stating the truth,¡± he retorted.


    Josie¡¯s anger boiled over, and she couldn¡¯t help but burst into bitterughter, tears streaming down her face, ¡°Of course! So, Arnold was right about your so-called ¡®truths. You¡¯re nothing more than heartless, unscrupulous, and pompous¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face flushed with fury as he abruptly mmed on the brakes upon hearing her mention the name, ¡°Say that again!¡±


    Josie locked eyes with him, her determination clear.


    ¡°Since you trust Arnold so much, why don¡¯t you return to him now? There¡¯s still time to change your mind!¡±


    Without hesitation, Josie unbuckled her seatbelt. ¡°Let me out of the car.¡±


    Her stubbornness was unwavering, and after a brief standoff, Dexter couldn¡¯t help but crack a smile.


    He started the engine again without saying a word. As they approached Mason Garden, Josie clenched the seatbelt tightly, attempting to keep herposure as she spoke calmly to the man beside her, ¡°I can y along with this charade, but remember, there are boundaries.¡±


    don¡¯t Just as she finished speaking, the car jerked forward. Dexter instinctively hit the brakes and then released them. He turned to her, his voice calm and indifferent, ¡°Make sure you mess up!¡±


    Back at Mason Garden, a car echoed through the courtyard. Marilyn and the staff were busy assemblingsagnas.


    Meanwhile, Henry sat on the sofa, chuckling. ¡°Well, well, well¡­ Dex, Jo, you guys are early!¡±


    Josie smiled forcedly and smoothly fabricated, ¡°Hey, Grandpa. We hurried back here just to see you.¡±


    While speaking, she rolled up her sleeves to wash her hands. Marilyn nced at her and quickly advised, ¡°Mix some hot water. It¡¯s too cold.¡±


    She turned on the hot water tap for Josie.


    As the warm water streamed over her fingers, an unexpected sense of warmth washed over her heart.


    Thanking Marilyn, Josie skillfully proceeded to assemble the fillings. Her movements were graceful and practiced, disying a familiarity with kitchen work. As she wielded the cooking utensils, a sweet and tender aura surrounded her.

 Chapter 183

    Chapter 183 MediationExclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Sitting side by side, Dexter and Henry were captivated and impressed by the woman before them. The family background had never been a concern for Henry when consulering a potential inw for his grandson. Josie¡¯s education, poise, and sensibility made her a truly noble woman, and he was delighted to have her join the big family


    Josie spoke out of the blue. Grandpa. I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯te to see you earlier. I had an injury to attend to. I hope you don¡¯t mind that I didn¡¯t see you sooner


    Dexter furrowed his brow, finding her exnation unnecessary.


    Henry immediately smiled and responded, ¡°No worries at all. I really appreciated the gift


    you sent.¡±


    Unnoticed by Marilyn, Josie¡¯s hand convulsed as she assembled thesagna, causing a small amount of ground beef filling to spill onto the table.


    Josie frowned. A gift?


    She wasn¡¯t naive. With a bit of deduction, she could surmise that it was likely Dexter¡¯s doing A ttering gesture aimed at winning Henry¡¯s heart and favor.


    Although everything was just a charade, Henry had always treated her well.


    Dexter sent the gift in her name, ensuring her reputation was wless. He was always meticulous and tactful when it came to maintaining rtionships.


    But it was all just a facade¡­


    Josie continued her mechanical motions, but her thoughts were in disarray. Remembering how Dexter had left with Jesse and returned to the filming site earlier if this had happened in the past, she would have been deeply moved.


    Noticing her silence, Henry let out a sigh and spoke, ¡°On the day you got injured, you have no idea how worried I was about you. I wanted to visit you at the hospital, but Dex stopped


    me¡­¡±


    Josie was taken aback and looked at the man on the sofa, who shifted his gaze away.


    ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m fine now¡­¡±


    ¡°Thank God you¡¯re alright.¡± Henry nced at Dexter and sensed something off in his expression. He then scolded him in a low voice, ¡°Why the long face?¡±


    Henry knew him well enough to understand that beneath his gentle demeanor, he could be possessive regarding things he valued. Not only that, but Dexter also had the impulsive,pulsive tendency to safeguard those close and who mattered to him.


    Dexter had always been authoritative and had his quirks, but his devotion was unwavering. Henry knew there was more to his grandson than meets the eye, and he believed Josie must have witnessed this side of Dexter.


    ¡°Did you two just have a fight?¡± Henry broke the silence, sensing the tension between Josie and Dexter. He approached Josie and said, ¡°What did Dex do to upset you? Tell Grandpa, and I¡¯ll set things right.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Grandpa. It¡¯s just a minor disagreement,¡± Josie replied, casting her gaze downward.


    Henry turned his gaze towards Dexter, his eyes filled with determination. ¡°Tell me! What did


    do to upset her? Apologize to Jo right now!¡±


    you


    ¡°Grandpa¡­¡±


    ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s actually my fault.¡± Josie interjected with a forced smile, maintaining her silence for a while.


    Tension enveloped Dexter, rendering him speechless.


    Henry refrained from saying anything for the time being while Marilyn reached out and held Josie¡¯s hand.


    Noticing a red mark on the back of Josie¡¯s left hand, Marilyn was taken aback, ¡°What happened to your hand?¡±


    Josie snapped out of her thoughts and replied, ¡°¡­Oh, it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve already put some ointment on it.¡±


    Marilyn couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for her and murmured anxiously, ¡°You¡¯re always so clumsy and careless. How am I going to exin to your parents that you keep getting injured like this?¡±


    Marilyn¡¯s words left Josie with a lump in her throat.


    Thesagna was now ready, and darkness had settled outside.


    The lights in Mason Garden illuminated the surroundings.


    Josie and Marilyn disyed their culinary expertise as they sat around the dining table, relishing the rare sense of togetherness.


    Dexter ocasionally served food to Josie, his actions speaking louder than words Meanwhile, Josse feignedpliance, but the had no appetite for the exquisite dishes. The wound on the back of her hand tingled, and with the imposing presence of the man bende her, the refrained from touching it


    Noticing their interaction. Henry exchanged a significant nce with Dexter


    Dexter understood the unspoken message and ceased his hand from reaching for more food. setting down his chopsticks ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡±

 Chapter 184

    Chapter 184 She Was Not at Fault


    Josie nced at him and shrugged, saying casually. ¡°Nah, just not feeling very hungry.¡±


    To Henry¡¯s surprise, Dexter remained unfazed, making no further attempts to coax her. However, Henry discreetly kicked Dexter beneath the table to nudge him into action.


    In response, Dexter stood up, his expression a mix of helplessness and impatience. He reached down and grabbed Josie¡¯s drooping hand, pulling her up. ¡°If you¡¯re not in the mood to eat, don¡¯t force yourself.¡±


    Dexter firmly grasped her arm and led her away.


    Feeling a chill in her hand, Josie turned back to look at Henry, ¡°But Grandpa¡­¡±


    Henry responded with an affectionate smile, giving his permission, ¡°It¡¯s alright. Just go with Dex.¡±


    Julie stood nearby, witnessing the scene with conflicting emotions. She interjected, ¡°But it¡¯s a rare.opportunity for you to be here¡­¡±


    ¡°Julie,¡± Henry interrupted, gesturing for her to join them. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t just stand there. Sit down and eat with us.¡±Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Julie was pleasantly surprised by the gesture and quickly shook her head, ¡°No, it wouldn¡¯t be appropriate.¡±


    Henry didn¡¯t press the matter further but instead grinned and looked at her, ¡°I¡¯m d you know what¡¯s appropriate and what¡¯s not.¡±


    Julie wasn¡¯t oblivious and immediately grasped the implication, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Please forgive me for overstepping my boundaries.¡±


    It was a warning from Henry.


    As a servant, she should stay within her role, do her duties, and not interfere where she has no right to.


    In the master bedroom of Mason Garden, the housekeeper quickly brought two tubes of burn ointment. ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    As a servant, Marilyn understood the boundaries of her role and shouldn¡¯t be nosy when it wasn¡¯t her ce to do so. Standing outside the master bedroom at Mason Garden, the housekeeper held two tubes of burn ointment and knocked on the door, ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    stood on


    condition. Josie overheard snippets of the conversation, hinting at an update on Jesse.


    Just before he ended the call, he purposely closed the door behind him as he walked away. leaving her isted.


    Shaking off her thoughts, Josie focused on the task at hand, applying the ointment to her scalded wound.


    Upon returning from the call, Dexter saw Josie nonchntly closing the ointment tube and cing it on the table. Taking the initiative, he inquired, ¡°How¡¯s Jesse?¡±


    Leaning against the door frame, he tilted his head to study her. His tone was gentler, ¡°Oh, done with your little tantrum, huh? You refused to apologize for your mistake, and now you dare to ask.¡±


    Fearlessly meeting his gaze, Josie asserted, ¡°It wasn¡¯t my


    fault.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow at her but ultimately said nothing.


    Josie had the urge to rify that it was Jesse who collided with her and that there might be surveince footage in themercial district to prove it. However, the words halted at the tip of her tongue. She didn¡¯t want to give the impression of what he used her of-being jealous and disguising her intentions with a loud voice.


    Josie didn¡¯t want things to escte in that manner.


    She stood up, intending to leave, ¡°Tonight, I¡¯ll go back to my original room to sleep.¡±


    But midway through her sentence, she paused and added, ¡°You can ask Jess with me visiting her at the hospital. I don¡¯t mind going to see her. After all responsibility for her injury too.¡±


    As she spoke with an air of arrogance, turning a simple request into an act of ch clear that when her pride ignited, no one could rein her in.


    he¡¯s okay


    Dexter didn¡¯t try to stop her or say anything. He simply turned and entered the bathroo


    While Josie waited, she sat in the living room with herptop, attempting to work on her drawings. However, she couldn¡¯t focus and stared at the screen for an extended period. A sour and bitter sensation crept up her nose, and she wept uncontrobly.


    When bedtime arrived, Josie struggled to rise to her feet, using the wall to support to alleviate her legs¡¯ numbness. She made her way toward her original room but unexpectedly came across Henry on her way out. ¡°Are you okay, Jo?¡±


    To hide her emotions, Josie quickly averted her gaze. She said, ¡°I-I just needed to get something in the room.¡±


    With his astutenen, Henry saw through her immediately. He encouraged her to return to Dester, ¡°Tell me what you need, and I¡¯ll get it for you. You should go back and take a theme lex gettingte.¡±


    ¡°But Dex is currently using the shower¡±


    Hasn¡¯t he finished ande out already?¡±


    Henry nced past Josie, who turned around in astonishment and noticed Dexter standing nearby, dressed in silk pajamas, seemingly retrieving something from the room

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185 Public Appearance Together


    Feeling ovee by resentment, Josie felt as though her soul had left her body upon seeing the sight of him.Why does he appear at this time?


    Hence, she was forced to go back to the master bedroom.She scratched her head, suddenly understanding why Henry decided to stay the night at Mason Garden.


    I can¡¯t escape anymore.


    ¡°I¡¯ll sleep on the couch.¡± With that, she took a nket from the wardrobe. This should be enough for the night. It¡¯s quite warm here.


    Unexpectedly, she was pulled backward. The world spun around her before she crashed into the wall.


    Her arms were tightly locked together, making her unable to move.


    ¡°What the hell are you doing?¡±


    As their breaths entangled, he looked her straight in the eye and demanded, ¡°Why did you cry just now?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Different emotions meshed together in her eyes.


    How did he see that? she wondered, confused.


    It was at that moment Dexter realized how quickly she could switch expressions.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    She suddenly snorted outughing and winked at him flirtatiously. ¡°Dexter, you aren¡¯t assuming I¡¯m jealous, are you?¡±


    He merely gazed back at her deeply without giving any inclination to reply.


    Bored by his reaction, she dropped the act and added indifferently, ¡°You misread the situation. I wasn¡¯t crying.¡±


    He gazed at her intently to catch any hint of abnormality but discovered nothing.


    Is that so? Perhaps I¡¯ve been overthinking. Yeah, she is such a stubborn person. How could she ever


    Unlock seeded


    1/3


    Chapter 185 Public Appearance Together


    Dexter suddenly recalled something and loosened her arms. He opened the wardrobe and looked at the huge womenswear collection all hand-picked and sent by the brands¡¯ ambassadors.


    ¨C


    ¡°Choose one that¡¯s appropriate for the dinner.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind went nk upon hearing that.


    ¨C


    ¡°We are going to celebrate the sess of acquiring Landon. Come with me you can see how Arnold reacts in the meantime.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s sharp gaze was on her the entire time he talked, trying to detect a hint of disappointment or anxiety. However, all he saw was shock, followed by a look of cool understanding.


    Indeed, she doesn¡¯t know about the acquisition of Landon.


    Ever since Arnold went abroad, they had no contact whatsoever. Why would Dexter think we are hooking up with each other?


    Josie was lost in her thoughts, which was not a good sign in front of Dexter.


    Without any notice, he held her up easily. Her nk eyes suddenly came back in focus as she instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck to regain her bnce.


    When she came to her senses, she instantly let him go.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    He smiled at her frigidly and let his breath out near her ears. ¡°Arnold was so sweet to you. How does it feel to watch him fail?¡±


    She red at him furiously with an urge to bite him. Nevertheless, she dared not resist his forceful embrace as Henry was still there.


    Knowing that Dexter had misunderstood the situation, she yed along nheless.


    ¡°It¡¯s excruciating!¡±


    Dexter stopped walking when he reached the edge of the bed and suddenly dropped her onto the soft bed.


    He lowered his gaze to see her. From his view, she looked alluring and innocent.


    ¡°Have you gone mad?¡± she questioned with wide eyes.


    He closed in upon her like a predator and pinched her chin ferociously.


    In a menacing tone, he said, ¡°Well, that can¡¯t be helped. Please be present for that event, Mrs. Russell, and I hope your acting will be as good as today.¡±

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186 Fell Asleep


    What does he mean? Not only is he attending, but he is also bringing me along as well? Is he announcing our rtionship?


    Incredulity colored her eyes. She got away from his grip and announced, ¡°I won¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Try it.¡±


    With that, he left the room resolutely and mmed the door lightly.


    The lighter he closed the door, the more furious he actually was.


    Left alone in the room, Josie couldn¡¯t fall asleep. It was only around dawn that she finally slept, but countless worries still lingered in her mind.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The next day, she was woken up quitete in the morning.


    She felt embarrassed about it, especially because of Henry¡¯s presence.


    He didn¡¯t me her at all. Looking at the dark circles under her eyes, he said, ¡°Looks like you didn¡¯t sleep wellst night.¡±


    It was impossible for her to leave the house alone with him there, so she got into Dexter¡¯s car and left with him to Russell Group.


    She shut her eyes to rest; partly due to herck of sleep, and the other to avoid speaking with him.


    Unexpectedly, she dozed off in the warm and cozy car.


    She had no clue how she was able to sleep for so long without any dreams. But when she woke up, it was dark around her, and the seat was lowered downpletely. She noticed a nket on her body which kept her warm.


    She rubbed her eyes as she slowly sat up. After looking around her surroundings, she noticed she was still in Dexter¡¯s car, but he was nowhere to be seen. The car key was still in the ignition, perhaps left there on purpose to allow her to leave easily.


    She patted her forehead, annoyed and relieved that he didn¡¯t lock her in the car.


    When she looked at the time, she was surprised that it was already in the afternoon.


    Josie took the keys and locked the car while thinking resentfully, Why didn¡¯t hewake me up?


    future development was held.


    Dexter was sitting at his desk with a row of experienced managers in front of him. While they were discussing the subject, their drinks were being refilled by the secretaries. constantly.


    However, Dexter seemed distracted by another screen showing the footage of his car. Josie was still sleeping soundly in the car, asionally turning around.


    I increased the temperature in the car before leaving and left the window slightly open. There wouldn¡¯t be any problems, would it? He then looked at the time. It¡¯s almost lunch hour soon. How is she still asleep?


    The managers noticed that he was growing visibly more irate. Interrupting his thoughts, they said, ¡°Mr. Russell, are you still with us?¡±


    Dexter cleared his throat and repeated what they had just reported despite being distracted momentarily.


    Noticing they had justmitted a faux pas, the managers stopped questioning him. Fortunately for them, Dexter was in a good mood that day.


    ¡°Let¡¯s call it a day,¡± he concluded.


    As the managers filed out of the room, Ivy stopped taking the meeting minutes and asked, ¡°Is it time for lunch, Mr. Dexter?¡±


    He closed the cap of his golden-ted fountain pen and ced it on the table. Just when he was about to get up, he saw Josie being stirred awake from the screen.


    She seemed confused and dazed upon awakening but soon folded the nket and ced it neatly aside. Then, she took his keys and got out of the car like a confused squirrel.


    Ivy saw a small smile creeping up on his face, one he probably didn¡¯t even notice himself. The genuine smile broke through the indifferent mask he usually put on.


    After two seconds of pause, the mask resumed as he announced, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Josie also went to thepany cafeteria directly. As soon as Alice saw her, she waved.


    ¡°Ms. Warren!¡±

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187 Go Home Alone


    Josie stumbled. ¡°Please don¡¯t call me that! It¡¯s embarrassing!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Warren,¡± Alice teased. ¡°Aren¡¯t you taking today off?¡±


    Josie sat down with a frown. ¡°A-Am I?¡±


    Alice choked on her drink. ¡°Are you experiencing memory loss because of all those all- nighters? You posted the message in the


    group chat.¡±


    Josie took her phone to verify the information. She read the message that was sent under her


    name.


    I¡¯m taking the day off. Put the rest of the documents on hold.


    There was a torrent of replies after that message.


    ¡®What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡®Did something happen?¡¯


    ¡®Is everything ok?¡¯


    Josie sighed as she knew who actually sent the message. Who else has ess to my phone? And themanding tone¡­


    Josie dug into the meal as she silently cursed herself for falling asleep.


    Why did he take the day off for me? Does he really think I can sleep for the entire day?


    On the other hand, Jesse was on the trending page again, using her injury to gain poprity. However, surprisingly, she didn¡¯t mention Dexter anymore.


    She mentioned it was just an ident in her post, but she couldn¡¯t deter theizens from being Sherlock Holmes.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡®It¡¯s clearly done by someone else on purpose!¡¯


    ¡®I feel so sorry for her. Who¡¯s that sick perpetrator?¡¯


    Alice red up when she read the post. ¡®What a b*tch!¡±


    Soon, #JesseWasScalded was trending.


    Upon seeing that, Josie decided not to pay Jesse a visit. We are even now.


    ¡°What did Arnold want from you yesterday?¡±


    Alice looked slightly shy. ¡°He asked about the entire story. It looks like he is quite concerned about you.


    Do you think he likes you?¡±


    Josie choked on the soup she had been drinking. ¡°Stop your wild fantasies.¡±


    When it was time to get off work, Ivy suddenly appeared at Josie¡¯s office. In an unfriendly tone, she said, ¡°Mr. Russell has another dinner tonight. The driver will be with him, and he asked me to pass this key to you, along with the message ¨C ¡°Take care when you drive home.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care about the message at all. To her, Dexter was merely doing that to avoid getting a lecture from Henry. She nodded and shed a fake smile at Ivy. ¡°You¡¯re not nning to kill me, are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not that stupid,¡± Ivy replied through gritted teeth.


    Josie drove slowly in the rain, but her mind was cluttered with different thoughts.


    It never rains but it pours. Against her wishes, she got into an ident.


    Thud!


    She mmed the brakes immediately as her dazed eyes shifted into focus. Then, she got out of the car in a fluster.


    To her dismay, she identally bumped into the car in front of her.


    The other driver was a young man. In fact, he was only a teenager, to be more urate.


    He crossed his arms as he looked at the huge scratch on his car.


    ¡°Are


    you blind? How did you get your driver¡¯s license? Are you blind?¡± he bellowed.


    Josie was stunned after being yelled at. When he stopped, she replied apologetically. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. This ispletely my fault. Have you called the police? I¡¯ll pay for all the damages.¡±


    She was lost in her thoughts just now.


    ¡°Of course I did.¡± He looked at her car disdainfully and rolled his eyes. ¡°Do you know how much my car cost? This is thetest model from BMW ¨C a gift from my grandfather! Do you have the money to pay me back?¡±


    His rude demeanor made it difficult to have a level-headed discussion with him.

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188 Minor Car ident


    Josie rubbed her temples. It had been a while since she interacted with someone as uncivilized as him. She was never one who would pick fights, so she merely let out a sarcastic snort as they stood in the rain. ¡°How amusing. I already told you I will pay you back. Don¡¯t you want that? If not, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Infuriated by her remarks, that man pulled her hair ungraciously. As she felt pain tear through her head, he cussed, ¡°You knocked into me first. How are you still so indignant?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t get rid of him, and the pain made tears well in her eyes. When she finally broke through, he had bits of her hair in his hands.


    The stress throughout the entire day had taken its toll on her. Tears were mixed with the rain on her cheeks.


    Feeling that she couldn¡¯t take it anymore, she escaped into her car and locked it while he was distracted.


    Then, she quickly called a number while he kicked the car repeatedly.


    ¡°What the f*ck? Get out of the car, b*tch!¡±


    She wiped her face as she waited for her call to get through. The moment felt like forever.


    ¡°Hello?¡± A cool voice rang in her ears, so melodious that her heart skipped a beat.


    Josie was suddenly at a loss for words. All Dexter could hear was her breathing.


    It was quite noisy on his end, but the sound of the rude man kicking her door was loud enough to pierce through the noise.


    Soon, Dexter realized that something was wrong and raised his voice. ¡°Say something!¡±


    His nonchnce slowly turned into annoyance.


    She asked reluctantly in a small voice full of grievances, ¡°Can youe over? I bumped into someone else in your car.¡±


    The soundproof windows could not block the string of curses from the man.


    The swear words made their way into Josie¡¯s ears as well as Dexter¡¯s on the other end of the car, who was in a business meeting. The line of his mouth tightened a fraction more, and his eyes narrowed into slits.


    wrong.


    After a long silence, they asked hesitantly, ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie also heard that and quickly exined, ¡°I already called the police, but I don¡¯t have my driver¡¯s license with me so the situation is a bit tricky. If you are busy, just ask someone else


    toe over¡­¡±


    She gasped between sobs, trying to fit words in when she could. She seemedpletely different from her stubborn insistence the day before.


    ¡°What is going on now? Stay in the car,¡± Dextermanded coolly. Josie was unable to detect the emotions in his voice.


    Soon, the man stopped kicking the car and switched to knocking on her window. Each thud sent fear down her spine.


    Her temper started rising upon seeing how unreasonable the man was. She ignored Dexter and rolled down the window slightly. ¡°You switchednes unexpectedly and were going over the speed limit just now. If you didn¡¯t do that to begin with, how would I bump into you? And we have already called the police. What else do you want? I can¡¯t possibly disappear in front of you!¡±


    The man red at her, but Dexter raised his voice again before he could yell back. ¡°Josie!¡±


    ¡°Wow, I can¡¯t believe how you are so righteous after bumping into my car. Do you know who my dad and grandpa are? If you don¡¯t resolve this to my liking. your life will be ruined!¡±


    Josie adjusted the car window again, trapping his hand that was trying to reach into the car.


    ¡°Hah! Try it! I¡¯m curious who they are you guys are a bunch of scum! Ten BMWs won¡¯t be a problem, let alone one!¡±

 Chapter 189

    Chapter 189 1''ll Be Right There


    Themotion attracted the attention of various passersby. With his hand stuck in the window, the man groaned piteously. ¡°Look at this b*tch! After crashing into my car, she trapped my fingers here!¡±


    Josie took a deep breath. This was the first time she was insulted by a stranger. She wanted to retaliate, but Dextermanded in her ears, ¡°Let him go now, Josie! And don¡¯t you talk back to him! Do you hear me?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s usualposure waspletely lost as he lost check of himself. Everyone around him heard his raised voice and exchanged awkward stares with each other.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Worried about his abrupt behavior, Ivy asked him, ¡°Mr. Russell, is something wrong?¡±


    Dexter replied tartly to Josie, ¡°Send me your location. I will be right there.¡±


    Josie reluctantly rolled down the window to let go of the man. She remained silent while the drama continued outside the car.


    Dexter seemed to have gotten into his car. He softened his tone exasperatedly, ¡°Don¡¯t hang up until I¡¯m there.¡±


    Josie lowered her head, revealing her beautifully smooth neck. She grabbed her seat and replied meekly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Silence then ensued. Only their breathing and some background noises were heard.


    Suddenly, he asked, ¡°Are you wet from the rain?¡±


    She replied after a pause. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°The car has a drying function, and there¡¯s a towel in the backseat. You can dry yourself.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Alright.¡±


    Josie carried out his orders stiffly as though she was a puppet being pulled by his strings. The final strand of logical thinking told her this was unusual behavior from him as she busied


    herself.


    She ced the phone aside before drying her damp hair.


    The tension between them over the past two days was resolved with this incident. Though they still acted indifferently toward each other, their voices wereyered with warmth.


    Unbeknownst to them, this warmth seemed to have sprouted a seedling between the


    After a while, Josie plucked up her courage. ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t have toe. Just ask Ivy-¡±


    ¡°Josie,¡± he interrupted warningly.


    She stopped speaking and pouted. Suddenly, she said, ¡°Be careful while driving.¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help teasing. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not as stupid as you.¡±


    The traffic police arrived before Dexter could make it.


    He evacuated the crowd and pulled the man aside before knocking on Josie¡¯s window. ¡°Miss?¡±


    ¡°The policeman is here,¡± she reported to Dexter.


    ¡°With the police around, I suppose that guy can¡¯t do anything to you. Talk to the police first; I¡¯ll be arriving shortly.¡±


    Josie sniffed and unlocked the car, holding the phone as she got out.


    While the policeman assessed the situation, Dexter¡¯s voice came on the other end, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    A ray of light seemed to have announced his arrival. Sure enough, another car was parked behind her when she turned around to look. He opened the door and walked out with an umbre and a ck coat. Then, with an imposing aura, he steadily and firmly made his way to them amidst the rain.


    Seeing his tall figure cutting through the crowd, a sense of ease settled on Josie¡¯s heart. She felt safe, as though an armor had been wrapped around her.


    A journalist once wrote about Dexter: ¡®He is so reliable that you would want to dive into his arms as soon as you see him, and he will definitely take good care of you.


    Their eyes finally met one another, and their gazes lingered on each other. It seemed as though they weremunicating through their eyes that the rest of their lives would be intertwined with each other.


    Dexter was briefly distracted by her before he ced his palm behind her head to calm her down.

 Chapter 190

    Chapter 190 Revenge


    Josie no longer felt the rain, for it was blocked by the umbre.


    Meanwhile, Dexter shook hands with the policeman impassively. ¡°Talk to me about the situation.¡±


    Josie froze and looked at him.


    On the other hand, the policeman had a sharp eye from his years of experience on the road. At a nce, he could tell that Josie and Dexter¡¯s cars were much more invaluable than at BMW.


    Apart from that, he could also tell that Dexter was no ordinary man from how thetter. carried himself.


    The policeman felt sorry for the other driver.


    He took some notes in his notebook and issued a fine for both of them.


    ¡°You went over the speed limit just now,¡± he told the BMW driver.


    Then, he turned to Josie, ¡°You¡¯re fined for not having a driving license with you. Should you


    discuss the cost of the ident between yourselves, or do you need me to mediate?¡±


    guys


    The BMW driver flew into a fit after hearing that. ¡°How could you do that? Look at her! Does she look like she can pay? And look at my hand ¨C look at my condition now!¡±


    Frustration and rage coiled in her heart, leaving her speechless to argue back.


    Dexter gently patted the back of her head with his hand.


    The policeman retorted, ¡°Both of you are responsible. You also made dents in her car by kicking it just now.¡±


    Seeing that the situation was unfavorable to him and that Josie had another. person to back


    the BMW driver panicked and stomped his foot.


    her up,


    ¡°Do you know who my dad is? If I tell him about this, all of you are doomed!¡±


    The phone in Dexter¡¯s hand lit up. It was a call from Ivy.


    He nced at the impetuous man as he picked it up and turned on the speakers.


    creating trouble all day, but the news has been suppressed. I supposed he¡¯s right in front of


    you now.¡±


    The man widened his eyes incredulously. Even the policeman nced around in shock.


    He¡¯s the son of the deputy director? And this other guy found out about that in such a short time. Man, this case is not as insignificant as I thought,


    The BMW driver¡¯s arrogance immediately dissipated without even a word from Dexter. I¡¯m probably in trouble, he thought in remorse.


    ¡°You¡­.¡±


    Ivy added, ¡°It seems like Mr. Mullins is aiming for a promotion this year.¡±


    Mr. Mullins¡¯ son looked thunderstruck.


    Dexter smiled coldly. ¡°As a high-rank officer, it¡¯s his failure to have such a son.¡±


    The word ¡®failure¡¯ weighed heavily.


    ¡°Since he can¡¯t even teach his children good manners, it doesn¡¯t seem fitting for him to fill that position.¡±


    Ivy understood his intentions. ¡°I understand. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    A pregnant silence filled the air.


    Josie was trembling due to the cold.


    Dexter hugged her closer unknowingly and handed the umbre to her. He set her aside, put away his phone, and leaned forward to the BMW driver.


    ¡°You were saying that she can¡¯t pay you back?¡± he asked calmly, but the other person not reply.


    dared


    ¡°Wait!¡± Josie walked to him, but he entered her car and shut the door loudly before she could stop him.


    Then, he started the engine and mmed on the elerator, mming into the car.


    ¡®Boom!¡±


    The other driver was dumbfounded. Smoke came out of the back of his car. The car turned into a pathetic state, no matter how you looked at it.


    Dexter got out of the car safely with a cruel glint in his eyes. He took the bill from the


    policeman and pulled Josie back to his car.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home. Someone else will handle thister.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 191

    Chapter 191 Relearning to Drive


    The traffic police stood transfixed at the cold yet regal silhouette. A surge of familiarity shed through. They were determined to piece up the fragments, only to be met with another futile attempt.


    What a dazzling surprise.


    It was a pleasure meeting Dexter Russell, the president of Russell Group.


    The person¡¯s legs trembled, yearning to sink into the depths of the muddy ground. Their face nched with panic as their once arrogant facade crumbled gradually.


    He had just received a phone call from his father¡¯s assistant, delivering nothing but bad news. The assistant eximed furiously, ¡°You rascal! Your grandpa is sick, and the whole house is in shambles because of you!¡±


    The Inte did not show any mercy too.


    The dashcam footage leaked by an unknown source caused a digital uproar. Even with Josie and Dexter¡¯s conversation edited, it was akin to the infamous ¡®I¡¯m Mr. Lane¡¯s Dad¡¯ incident, thus fuelling widespread outrage.


    Is this what it¡¯s like to be rich and powerful?


    Do fathers and sons often share simr personalities?


    Would they look into this and find out what happened?


    It had caused such a hugemotion, and if they didn¡¯t take it seriously, it only made


    matters worse.


    When they thought things couldn¡¯t get any worse, another scandal broke out. It was as if destiny had conspired to expose the dark secrets of the Davidson family, leaving them teetering on the edge of their undoing.


    The relentless onught of condemnation had cast an overcast in a harrowing nightmare.


    As a businessman, Dexter Russell was strongly advised to steer clear of politics, though. bringing down a corrupt official was simple with such incriminating evidence.


    Josie was unaware that the entire family was overwhelmed by despair and destion.


    In the warmth of the car.


    Unlock seeded


    at h


    with your hair?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter¡¯s fingers traced through the split strands of her soft and silky hair.


    Frustration rose as he eximed, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say anything just now!¡±


    The crash was not as severe as expected.


    Josie lightly brushed her cheek, blinked, and deflected, ¡°Who could have possibly thought


    about that at that time?¡±


    He scoffed, frustrations lingering as he stood by her side, and Josie¡¯s patience wore thin with the two of them alone.


    ¡°You could¡¯ve told me earlier that you didn¡¯t bring your driver¡¯s license, you know?¡±


    He wouldn¡¯t have let her drive alone if he knew she didn¡¯t have a license.


    Josie¡¯s irritation heightened as she nced down at her hair. ¡°Why should I have bothered telling you?¡± she retorted.


    As she replied, he struggled to contain his anger and frustration.


    In the aftermath of their argument the previous night, silence prevailed.


    Dexter drove to Southbridge silently, staying focused on the road despite the ensuing


    tension.


    As he pulled the handbrake and prepared to exit the car, Dexter broke the silence and asserted, ¡°We¡¯ll have to reschedule the driving lessons for another day.¡±


    Her driving skills weremendable.


    However, driving was off-limits until she reacquired the necessary skills.


    Josie shot him fiercely.


    ¡°ring at me won¡¯t change anything, I¡¯m afraid.¡±


    Grandpa was startled when he saw Josie returning in a disheveled state. ¡°What happened to you?¡± he eximed as he hurried towards her.


    She never failed to make a fool of herself in front of the elderly.


    ¡°No big deal, and I¡¯m perfectly fine,¡± she meekly insisted as she nced cautiously at Grandpa.


    Grandpa did not press on further and tenderly offered a cup of warm water instead. ¡°Here,


    The hot bath¡¯s ready for you to shower.¡±


    drink

 Chapter 192

    Chapter 192 Two Lives, Different Destinies


    Josie gently brushed her hair.Dexter swiftly glided in front of her, leaning in with a faint smile and teased, ¡°Now, you realize how embarrassing this is.¡±


    Silence.Grandpa struck Dexter and red at him menacingly. ¡°Get out now!¡± Grandpa growled.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but burst into a sudden fit ofughter but quickly turned to a grimace as she took a sip of her scalding hot drink. She immediately felt the burning sensation spread throughout her mouth and promptly covered her lips with her hand, hoping to alleviate the pain.


    Dexter shot her another intense re.


    As she soaked in the warm bath, she felt peaceful and calm. All the outside world¡¯s noise faded away, and she became aware of Dexter¡¯s presence. The warmth of his palm, the tenderness of his voice, and thepassion in his eyes made her feel at ease.


    Engulfed by the misty warmth, she shut her tired eyes.


    She found sce in the soothing steam.


    Josie was surprised to see Dexter standing outside with a worried look on his face while she was still in her towel. He gestured towards her with a pair of scissors, saying, ¡°Let me help fix this for you.¡±


    Dexter became slightly annoyed when Josie hesitated, but she eventually declined his offer to help.


    He had genuinely intended to cut her hair.


    Josie found herself at a loss for words, feeling confined by the frigid and stagnant atmosphere.


    He cupped her ears and said hoarsely, ¡°Stay still!¡±


    She froze, only to find her voice after what seemed like an eternity. ¡°Thank you for today. I¡¯ll make it up for the losses,¡± she muttered.


    ¡°How on earth do you n to do that?¡± he scoffed.


    Unlock seeded


    ind out from Ivy tomorrow how much those two damaged car


    Silence ensued.


    ¡°I understand that your financial situation may be constrained, so I guess this little setback won¡¯t make much of a difference to you.¡±


    Josie was speechless.


    Exasperated with his constant belittling, she raised her head high and spoke with unwavering conviction, ¡°Allow me to make myself abundantly clear. I am me, and you are you. We are not the same.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face stiffened, and he continued to mock her. ¡°And what can you do, Josie? Can you honestly say you can bear the losses? The car idents were my fault, after all. Where¡¯s your beloved husband? Did he leave you here to deal with the damages? Is this a joke?¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded.


    Wait, did he say husband?


    Josie remained unfazed by his relentless criticism. Suddenly, she felt a gentle hug from behind, and her back tingled with warmth.


    As night crept in, the room was shrouded in darkness.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Josie¡¯s voice croaked as her eyes looked away, ¡°Hey, we¡¯re still in the middle of a fight.¡±


    ¡°Why did youe to me when things went wrong today?¡±


    Josie arched her back, but she struggled to find words. Her eyes wandered, and she couldn¡¯t help but wonder why she had reached out to him.


    Was it because it was his car?


    No wait.


    He pulled her in closer.


    Seeing Josie standing alone out there made him feel a deep desire to protect her from the world¡¯s harshness.


    As he reflected on his recent behavior towards her, he began to feel a sense of remorse.


    ¡°Because you were the only person I could think of.¡±


    Dexter scoffed, ¡°What about Arnold?¡±


    Josie was slightly exasperated and replied firmly, ¡°I¡¯ve already told you nothing is going


    between me and Arnold. I don¡¯t even like him. Wait ¨C did he tell you that he likes me?¡±


    Dexter said calmly, ¡°He has made it known on multiple asions that he wishes you to be his assistant.¡±


    Josie chuckled, ¡°Why do you think he would like me then?¡±

 Chapter 193

    Chapter 193 Into the Public Eye


    Dexter¡¯s desire to have her all to himself grew stronger as he fixated on her serene eyes and delicate features.


    Suppressing his possessive desires, he nced at his buzzing phone that shed an


    important message. Without looking up, he said, ¡°Prepare yourself for the banquet in three days.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s insistence on going public took Josie aback, and she questioned, ¡°Are you seriously doing this?¡±Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Dexter tucked his phone away, reassuring her, ¡°All the attendees are insiders. They know how to keep secrets.¡±


    She mischievously squinted and teased, ¡°Well, that¡¯s not part of our contract. So,ing to the banquetes with an extra fee.¡±


    Dexter raised his eyes and replied tersely, ¡°Do you always have to objectify yourself?¡±


    Objectify?


    Josie was infuriated. ¡°What about the rumors concerning your alleged girlfriend being used for publicity? That appears to be a clear case of objectification.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face hardened, raising the question, ¡°Do you still think I¡¯m wrong?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you?¡± She challenged, and her eyes locked with his. Isn¡¯t it a mistak while getting stirred up with someone else?


    im to lead me on


    Dexter¡¯s gaze lingered on her for a moment. However, as his phone buzzed ¡®Ivy¡¯ shing on the screen, he averted his eyes and took the call, excusing hi


    out.


    Soon after, the rumble of a car engine filled the air, and he was gone.


    The balcony breeze swept in, and a cold shiver ran down her.


    Josie read Dexter¡¯s message before it was deleted when he suddenly left for Rivodia.


    What does it have to do with her anyways?


    Suddenly, Josie was shocked to read a news article about Mr. Davidson¡¯s downfall.


    She knew this would be Dexter.


    As evening fell, news about the Russell Group¡¯s triumphant acquisition of Landon was announced.


    Indeed, tomorrow¡¯s banquet was all set precisely as nned.


    +25 Bonus


    They embarked on a nine thousand miles journey, boarding a private ne from Rivodia to Wavery.


    During a meeting with the executives, the ne hit turbulence which caused a sudden jolt that sent water from their cups spilling onto the floor.


    Fortunately, it was temporary turbulence, and everything quickly settled down.


    The meeting ended. Unfortunately, the project team had to work tirelessly for two nights. due to Landon¡¯s mistake.


    Upon receiving the phone call, Dexter quickly flew to Rivodia and worked tirelessly for two consecutive nights.


    Ivy noticed his paleplexion and offered another cup of warm water. ¡°Mr. Russell, you should take a break.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face softened as he cleared his throat and asked, ¡°How¡¯s Josie doing?¡±


    ¡°All good,¡± Ivy replied, her lips pursed.


    He heaved a sigh of relief.


    As Josie was discharged from the hospital, her phone buzzed, with a familiar number disyed on her screen.


    As the day progressed, the gray veil of the afternoon sky lifted and revealed a luminous sight. The sun emerged triumphantly and illuminated the world with its brilliant rays.


    She basked in a golden realm; the world was aglow with radiance. Her call was finally connected after a few seconds.


    The voice on the phone sounded tired but tender. ¡°Where are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m still working.¡±


    Dexter chuckled softly as he replied exasperated, ¡°It¡¯s Saturday. Everyone enjoys their weekends off.¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    xter continued. ¡°I just touched duvhtown. Where are you? I¡¯lle pick you up.

 Chapter 194

    Chapter 194 Revealing His Weakness


    His initial call was meant for Mason, only to find out she wasn¡¯t avable.


    As rays


    of light traversed in a gentle glow, Josie remained indifferent as she said coolly, ¡°Mr. Russell, one cannot always win over the hearts of others.¡±


    ¡°I was angry. I didn¡¯t mean what I said earlier.¡±


    ¡°What did you mean, then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when I see you. Please, tell me where you are now?¡±


    She sighed, ¡°I¡¯m at the¡­ hospital.¡±


    Dexter swiftly settled into his Rolls-Royce, exuding an air of unabashed extravagance.


    Dexter stepped out of the car, merely donning beige shirt and ck trousers. He walked towards his wife, who stood in a bowed head like a penguin. He felt a pang of guilt and reached out, pulling her close. ¡°Shall we go home?¡± he softly asked.


    He looked exhausted.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you cold?¡± Josie asked tactfully.


    His jacket had been left behind on the passenger seat. ¡°Wavery isn¡¯t as cold as Rivodia,¡± he remarked, his eyes fixed on the road as he braved the chilly weather.


    ¡°What will it take for you toe back?¡± He quickly added.


    She stayed silent briefly in his arms, her eyes still as she softly murmured, ¡°I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    A sharp breeze cut through the air as she inched away, reminding them of the biting cold. Dexter sped her hand firmly, his voice filled with warmth as he asked, ¡°So, what¡¯s the n?¡±


    She pulled her hand back, eyes locked with his. ¡°Unless you apologize to me,¡± she said sternly.


    Silence ensued.


    As the eldest and heir to the Russell family group, he had never apologized before. Even if he was at fault, no one could force him unless he chose to.


    frightened as she anticipated his response. You should go back. I¡¯ll take a tast


    She firmly refused to go back with him, no matter what.


    Dexter got into his car and trailed behind Josie.


    The Rolls-Royce emanated an undeniable air of opulence and grandeur.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Josie boarded the bus, hoping to shake him off. To her dismay, Dexter was persistent and even sent her a text asking why didn¡¯t she take the cab as she had said.


    Josie ignored the text.


    The bus was just a few stops away from Mason Garden when Josie snapped and stormed back to Dexter. ¡°Hey, this is getting absolutely outrageous!¡±


    A brisk autumn wind swept in, yfully ruffled Josie¡¯s braid, and a few strands gently clung to her face.


    Their eyes locked, and their world fell silent, frozen in time.


    Josie¡¯s cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the public¡¯s prying eyes peered on her. A sudden coolness brushed against the nape of her neck, and in an instant, she found herself pulled in his arms. She looked up and was met with a gentle yet tender kiss.


    Coldness pierced through, leaving an icy trail in its wake.


    They kissed deeply, seekingfort in each other¡¯s warmth.


    The wind gushed, but Josie caught a muffled reply, ¡°I¡¯m not what you think ¨C the Russell Group has terminated the contract with Jesse Abbott.¡±


    Josie was surprised.


    At the bustling intersection, the jingling sound of a cyclist¡¯s bell abruptly ceased, leaving behind a momentary silence amidst the mor of traffic.

 Chapter 195

    Chapter 195 Advised to Have a Baby


    It¡¯s canceled?


    Dexter would do anything to maximize his profit; he wouldn¡¯t let such trivial matters get in the way of his work.


    Josie¡¯s body tensed up in his arms, but Dexter tightened his grip on her. ¡°Let¡¯s return home. Grandpa is leaving today.¡±


    Josie was feeling conflicted as she followed his lead to the car. She carefully lifted her gaze to look at him. His back was broad and firm. His charismatic stance is second to none. Why would a businessman like him cancel the partnership with a celebrity for her?


    She felt downhearted the past few days, but now that the problem was solved, she was in disbelief at his behavior.


    As she mulled over her thoughts, she felt a faint feeling of anxiety seeping within her.


    All of a sudden, they passed by a massive mirror in Mason Garden. Her reflection in the mirror took her by surprise when she nced at herself. She noticed her face was flushed with redness, her eyes filled with lust, and part of her lipstick was gone. Anyone would catch on to what had happened.


    It was all because of Dexter! How can he act this way?


    Marilyn had packed his luggage and prepared a car. When Grandpa saw them entering hand in hand, his face lit up as a smile spread across his face. He felt relieved when he eximed loudly, ¡°That¡¯s right!¡±


    Josie returned a smile and said, ¡°Grandpa, why are you in a rush? Stay longer so it¡¯s more convenient for us to care for you.¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Dexter added, ¡°What treasure do you have in the Russell Mansion that would require your immediate attention?¡±


    Grandpa¡¯s smile slowly faded away upon hearing his words. ¡°You little brat! You only know how to anger me! Please learn how to speak properly from Jo.¡± He turned to Josie and continued, ¡°I¡¯m old now and need to rely on my bed at home to have a good night¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Josie nodded at his reply and walked towards Marilyn to thank her for her help throughout the past few days.


    ¡°I¡¯ll


    get


    Chris to send you home,¡± Dexter informed Grandpa.


    ed and whispered. ¡°Try hard and have a baby with


    long.¡±


    Dexter was upset by his words. He furrowed his brows and replied, ¡°You¡¯re still in good health. Don¡¯t say such things.¡±


    Grandpa beamed and, with a more somber tone, said resolutely. ¡°I¡¯m the person that¡¯s the most aware of my physical state. Also, you must get rid of your hot temper. Jo is someone you¡¯re going to spend a lifetime with. You have to learn topromise with one another. Don¡¯t end up like your father.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s jaw clenched in response as he looked at Josie¡¯s delicate physique. A lifetime? It¡¯s hard to imagine.


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Also, I¡¯m not done yet.¡± Grandpa noticed his eyes flickered with annoyance and continued, ¡°Have your wedding nned as soon as possible. Don¡¯t make her wait any longer.¡±


    Once Josie heard Grandpa¡¯s advice, she turned to look at Dexter, but his head was looking away with an inscrutable expression. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Grandpa and Marilyn had both left. The Mason Garden felt empty all of a sudden. Josie sat on the balcony, looking at the sycamore tree by the streets. Its leaves were painted yellow, adding to the sense of nostalgia and mncholy that permeated the autumn day.


    Her calm andposed demeanor masked her thoughts that had wandered off, ruminating on Grandpa¡¯s conversation with Dexter. She didn¡¯t even realize he was walking in her direction until he was right next to her.


    He stood behind her and naturally rested his hands on her shoulders. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Josie sat facing the vast and boundless sea. She tilted her head andid her cheeks on his cold hands. ¡°Dexter, did I cause more trouble for you?¡±


    Her emotionless remark wasyered with the weight she had carried in her heart.


    ¡°No.¡± His gazeid on the hair she had cut off. ¡°Why are you feeling unhappy?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath but couldn¡¯t unravel her most genuine thoughts. She summoned up a smile and averted from spilling her thoughts, ¡°I¡¯m missing Grandpa. He¡¯s an adorable family member. Dexter, you¡¯re fortunate to have him as your grandpa.¡±

 Chapter 196

    Chapter 196 Attending the Celebration Party


    Dexter creased his forehead. ¡°My grandpa is also now your grandpa.¡±


    Josie let out a sign without taking his words to heart. ¡°I have no idea how to help my father. Matt¡¯s words worry me.¡±


    Dexter walked away for a short while and brought back with him a box of ice cream. Then, he ced the box in front of her foot and said, ¡°Since we¡¯ve alreadye to this point, have something sweet to lighten up.¡±


    Josie was appalled by his behavior. ¡°This¡­¡±


    ¡°You earned the project and got promoted to the director position. You¡¯ve made significant. progress.¡±


    The ice cream melted as soon as it entered her mouth, and she felt a burst of sweetness that immediately changed her mood for the better. ¡°Since Grandpa has returned home, I¡¯ll return to my original room.¡±


    A cloud passed across Dexter¡¯s gaze. He took the ice cream away from her, leaving her dumbfounded by his actions. ¡°Then stop eating. I¡¯m getting my revenge.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hands were frozen on the spot. ¡°What do you mean?¡± After mulling over what had happened, she finally chuckled and teased him, ¡°Dexter Russell, are you sad that I¡¯m leaving your side?¡±


    He grunted coldly without looking at her.


    They had been sleeping in the same room for a long time. It would be impossible not to feel a sense of emptiness. Josie couldn¡¯t deny howfortable she felt using his arms as her pillow.


    ¡°I¡¯m just joking. Please return the ice cream to me.¡± Josie went closer to him. ¡°Dexter?¡±


    Despite feeling annoyed, he regained hisposure and passed her the ice cream. ¡°Grandpa has gone home, but are you sure he didn¡¯t order the maids in Mason Garden to keep their eyes on us?¡±


    Josie nodded incessantly. ¡°That¡¯s true. I guess I have no choice but to stay in your room.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile slowly spread across his face, creasing the ends of his eyes. Under the light, his warm gaze grew with affection.


    lock seedarty was held at the Bulgari Hotel¡¯s top floor


    Attending the Celebration Party


    Once the sun was up, Josie was sent to the beauty parlor for a facial treatment before changing into a customized evening gown made by the stylist hired by Dexter. He was amazed by her beauty. ¡°How could you be so gorgeous with such minimal efforts?¡±


    Josie was humored by hispliment, ¡°I¡¯m just a regr person.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t say this anymore. You were a regr person, but now you¡¯re not.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips as she looked at herself in the mirror. She wore a light green mermaid. dress entuating her curves, while her hair was tied into a slick bun without any essories. Despite the simplicity of her style, her timeless beauty and elegance were still captivating.


    The stylist admired how good she looked. ¡°You¡¯re leaving me speechless. You look amazing! This is the epitome of natural beauty.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t conceal her delight at thepliments she received.


    In the evening, Dexter picked her up in a new car. The Mercedes AMG G 63 had been remodeled, resulting in a bold and impressive new look.


    Josie stood frozen in amazement. He wore a in white shirt, but his charming appearanceplemented his vehicle wlessly. She couldn¡¯t believe her eyes as she assumed he preferred simplicity.


    She didn¡¯t imagine him to be this wild.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Dexter walked in front of her and reached out his hands. ¡°This dress fits you perfectly.¡±


    Josie rested her hands on his hands. ¡°I¡¯m nervous.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    She felt reassured by his words.


    There were plenty of branded cars parked on the ground floor of Bulgari Hotel. All the individuals who entered and exited the hotel were wealthy.


    Josie followed Dexter as they walked into the elevator. The doors opened to the top floor of the Bulgari Hotel.


    Ten tables were ced extravagantly in the ballroom, and all the guests were prominent figures in the industry.


    Josie carefully walked through the ballroom with her hands wrapped around his arms. Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Dexter and slowly shifted to the women beside him. They were surprised because he had never brought a woman to any previous events he had attended.

 Chapter 197

    Chapter 197 Dexter''s Admirer


    ¡°Mr. Russell, congrattions!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, congrattions for your sess!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, the acquisition of Landon by Russell Group is considered their greatest blessing.¡±


    They stood before Dexter and raised a toast in his honor. Dexter received a ss and passed it to Josie before receiving another.


    ¡°Thank you. But I¡¯m afraid that Arnold will not be pleased by yourment.¡±


    The people who were present observed how he was taking care of Josie, even a man in a blue suit. The man walked over and contributed to their conversation, ¡°It seems that Dexter may be overly concerned. Landon isn¡¯t something I must hold on to. I¡¯ll dly pass it to you.¡±


    His eyes immediately rested on Josie. ¡°Take it as a present to your¡­¡± He left hisst word lingering for a few moments before continuing, ¡°New girlfriend.¡±


    Dexter smirked and scornfully replied, ¡°It seems like Arnold isn¡¯t very observant. She isn¡¯t my girlfriend.¡±


    Josie felt her heart sink while everyone stared at her intently, growing more curious about her identity.


    ¡°She¡¯s my wife.¡±


    Everyone, including Josie, was startled by his revtion. Even Arnold raised his eyebrows in disbelief. He was impressed that Josie managed to get Dexter to publicly rify the nature of the rtionship.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell? When did Mr. Russell get married? I never heard any news about it.¡±


    The elderly CEOs at the party were unhappy to learn that a highly aplished young man in Wavery was married.


    ¡°Which lucky girl managed to achieve such honor?¡±


    Dexter and Josie locked their eyes at each other as Dexter held her closer by her waist. ¡°We¡¯ve officially registered our marriage but haven¡¯t organized a wedding ceremony. I hope everyone here can help us keep a secret.¡±


    ing how he was reluctant to share more detaile they


    Sing


    on him. It seemed like she wasn¡¯t from an affluent


    had never seen her before.


    They made a toast to her and called her Mrs. Russell. While their friendliness took her aback. shemented wittily. ¡°How is it my honor to marry him? He¡¯s the one lucky to have me as his wife.¡±


    Everyone chuckled as they didn¡¯t expect to hear such a quip from her. Dexter followed her lead and jokingly replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m the lucky guy.¡±


    Arnold smirked. ¡°They look good together.¡±


    Dexter held her hands and introduced her to the executives of Russell Group. She was addressed as Mrs. Russell in a respectful and affable tone by everyone. Suddenly, someonemented, ¡°Why does she seem familiar?¡±


    Josie immediately replied, ¡°I get that a lot.¡±


    After an hour, Josie felt her feet were starting to sore from continuously walking around without rest. Dexter guided her to afortable sofa and advised her to take a rest.


    Josie was enjoying herself immensely. All the attendees were dressed in fancy attire and had aid-back demeanor. It seems like they are leading a life without stress. As she pondered the contrasting lifestyles of the rich and the poor, she let out a deep sigh.


    Suddenly, she caught sight of a woman entering the ballroom hastily. She was dressed entirely in branded clothing and essories from head to toe. She quickly exchanged a few words with a middle-aged man before dashing in her direction.


    Josie was momentarily stunned. She nced toward Dexter and noticed he was conversing with someone else nearby.


    ¡°Yes¡­ I guess?¡±


    Thedy sneered at her. ¡°You don¡¯t even dare to admit you¡¯re his wife. W


    Dexter make such a shabby woman like


    you,


    his wife?¡±


    This person surely has an ill-intention. Maybe she¡¯s an admirer of Dexter?


    Just as she was about to defend herself, she heard a voiceing from behind. ¡°Laur being rude.¡±


    It was Arnold. He stood beside Josie and said matter of factly.


    ¡°Arnold! Why are you taking her side? You know she¡­¡± She was bing visibly frustrated as her face started to turn red.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 198

    Chapter 198 Ssh of Wine


    ¡°What do I know? Dexter brought his wife to a party for the first time, and you¡¯re here creating trouble for him. We¡¯ll wait and see how he punishes youter.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave that up to him!¡± She replied without a hint of nervousness. ¡°Arnold, didn¡¯t you go to London a few days ago? Is Summer recovering well? If she knew what happened here, you¡¯d need to return to London again!¡±


    Arnold fidgeted a little but smiled as he continued, ¡°Laura, if Summer ever finds out about this, I won¡¯t let you off easily.¡±


    ¡°Arnold Carter! Why are you taking this b*tch¡¯s side?¡±


    ¡°Who are you referring to as a b*tch?¡± Josie was upset at her rude remarks. ¡°I don¡¯t even know you, but it doesn¡¯t mean you can call me names!¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I? You are a b*tch! You seduced Dex when Summer wasn¡¯t around. I can¡¯t believe you even married him secretly!¡± She was the only one in the room who wasn¡¯t wearing a mask ofposure. She must¡¯ve just found out about their marriage.


    ¡°If she¡¯s as outstanding as you describe, why did she leave the country and give me this. chance? Please watch your filthy mouth! I have never seduced Dexter. Not even once.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but refute her outrageous ims.


    ¡°You!¡± Laura¡¯s anger boiled over. The next moment, she snatched up a wine ss, intending to ssh it on Josie¡¯s face, but Arnold stepped before her. The wine sshed all over his suit, and Josie gasped in shock, bewildered that he would protect her dignity.


    Arnold¡¯s eyes narrowed into icy slits. ¡°Are you satisfied now?¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Leave!¡±


    Laura red at Josie before stomping away in anger.


    Josie rushed to take the tissues and wiped his suit. ¡°This¡­ I¡­ you¡­ that¡­ thank you,¡± she stuttered nervously.


    Arnold grabbed her wrist and dragged her to the washroom. ¡°It¡¯s not convenient here. Let¡¯s go somewhere else.¡±


    Unlock seeded


    him unwillingly. She turned around and and hadn¡¯t seen what had happened.


    Arnold removed his coat in the washroom and went straight to the point. ¡°You¡¯re good.¡±


    Josie pretended she didn¡¯t understand. ¡°What do you mean, Mr. Carter?¡±


    ¡°It turned out you¡¯d already been married to Dexter when I first met you. How did it happen?¡± Arnold had his hands in his pocket as he leaned on the sink and lit a cigarette.


    Josie awkwardly smiled at him. ¡°I guess I¡¯m really charming.¡±


    Arnold sneered at her reply and rested his eyes on her chest. ¡°I¡¯m not sure about your charms, but you have an attractive body.¡±


    Josie immediately covered her chest with her hands. ¡°Why are you acting like this?¡±


    ¡°Have you two done the deed?¡±


    +25 BonusThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t understand why he made such a brusque inquiry. However, since Dexter had already admitted their rtionship, she naturally replied, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Arnold nodded and exhaled a puff of smoke. ¡°I¡¯ve seen the CCTV in the resting area.¡±


    Josie remembered that Dexter had already removed the listening device. ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡±


    ¡°He removed the listening device but not the CCTV. He wanted me to witness it, so I did my part and enjoyed it.¡± Arnold was having fun teasing her. ¡°I got a call from Summer that day. She was involved in an ident, so I had no choice but to fly to London, but it turned out that Dexter had acquired Landon while I wasn¡¯t around.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes


    widened as she realized the truth. They were all part of Dexter¡¯s deliberate n.


    ¡°Mr. Carter had wanted me to charm Dexter, but it turns out that a simr spell has been cast on you.¡±

 Chapter 199

    Chapter 199 Don¡¯t Get Ahead of Yourself


    Arnold showed no response to her tease. ¡°I had been pondering whether Dexter made me leave the city because of the project or if it was for you, and now I finally got my answer.


    Josie fidgeted with her hands as she spoke with a hint of a smile. ¡°So, what¡¯s the answer?¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you know by now?¡±


    Arnold stubbed out his cigarette and held his elegant, thin fingers under the automatic faucet.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting more interesting. Why don¡¯t youe to my side? You won¡¯t be able to handle this marriage.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re getting ahead of yourself,¡± she answered calmly.


    Arnold wrapped his arms around her waist and leaned closer to her. ¡°Don¡¯t be deceived by his nice facade. I heard he canceled the partnership with Jesse Abbott for you?¡±


    ¡°Is that not allowed?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s allowed, but do you truly understand his intentions? Did he do it for you or for his own benefit? Don¡¯t fall too deep into his trap,¡± Arnold patiently warned Josie.


    Josie was feeling conflicted. A minor celebrity wouldn¡¯t be very beneficial to him. ¡°Do you I¡¯m less important to him than Jesse Abbott?¡±


    think


    He didn¡¯t answer her directly. ¡°Then why did he help her that day instead of you?¡±


    Josie felt a knot of sadness tighten in her chest. ¡°That¡¯s not the same!¡±


    ¡°How is it different?¡±


    She despised how assured he seemed in his judgment. She wanted to escape his grasp, but he held on to her tighter and whispered in her ear, ¡°What do you think the people outside would say if I did something to you here?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in fear. ¡°Arnold Carter! You scumbag!¡±


    ¡°I like it when you scold me like this.¡± He released her with his lips curled into a smile. He took two steps back, then turned and walked away. ¡°You still owe me a suit.¡±


    Why do I always encounter such bad luck?


    ein understand why he wanted her on


    she noticed Dexter was still busy. Her frustration was building up like a pressure cooker, so she texted him to say she needed to clear her head outside.


    Before she left, she took two oranges from the fruit basket with her.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Josie bounced out of the hotel, her steps light and carefree. She tossed an orange into the air and caught it with a delightful smile, shing her beautiful teeth. She was like a student on a


    summer vacation.


    After a short while, she noticed Dexter¡¯s car stopped in front of her. The driver honked and exited the vehicle. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell had asked you to wait in the car.¡±


    Josie had nowhere else to escape.


    Before long, Dexter strode out of the hotel. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you stay any longer?¡±


    Josie clutched her oranges to her chest, feeling wronged and frustrated. ¡°It¡¯s too boring.¡± After a short pause, she asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you need to attend to more people?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m almost done.¡± Dexter dragged her into the car. ¡°I¡¯m more afraid that away. Where were you nning to go just now?¡±


    you


    would run


    Josie kept silent and wouldn¡¯t reveal the truth. She felt ufortable by how close they were, so she tried to push him away, but he wouldn¡¯t let go.


    Their eyes met, but she quickly broke it off, flustered by his gaze.


    She finally stayed still and answered, ¡°Home¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go home.¡± Dexter signaled the driver to take them home.


    Josie didn¡¯t say a word as she peeled the oranges. The driver could almost taste the sweetness and sourness of the oranges as the smell wafted through the car, and his mouth began to


    water.


    She carefully peeled the white pith from the oranges and ced it in her mouth. Her cheeks started puffing out as she chewed.


    She finished an orange without acknowledging his presence. Dexter¡¯s hand closed over hers as she reached for the next orange. ¡°That¡¯s enough. Stop eating. It¡¯s not good for your stomach.¡±

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200 The Orange is Sweet


    Josie felt upset with him. These were her oranges. Why did she have to gain his permission before having it?


    ¡°You can have it,¡± he cunningly let go of her hands and grabbed her cheeks, ¡°But you¡¯ll have to let me try it first.¡±


    He kissed her lips.


    Her lips tasted of citrus; it was intoxicating.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in rm. A bubbling sense of exasperation grew within her. Why does he always treat me like a ragdoll?


    Her frustrations evaporated with his kiss. It arrived like a wave, crashing over her and taking her breath away.


    She had been up since early that morning, getting styled for the party. And after all that happened throughout the night, she was finally starting to feel the effects of exhaustion.


    Dexter hugged her warmly and signaled the driver to drive slower.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He patted her shoulders and softly kissed her forehead. ¡°Have a rest here.¡±


    Josie leaned against his shoulders and felt safe in his arms. Her eyes were closed, and her hands were gripping his shirt. Dexter gently pried her fingers loose and ced her hand on


    his chest.


    She let the drowsiness wash over her as she slowly fell asleep.


    Josie turned a one-hour trip back home into two hours.


    The sun sets earlier in the winter, making the days shorter and the nights longer.


    As they waited for the light to change, Dexter looked up at the high-rise buildings surrounding the city square.


    It was six in the evening, and a variety show was being shown on the screen.


    To prevent waking Josie up, the driver softly spoke to Dexter, ¡°There¡¯s a small fluctuation in the Russell Group¡¯s share price today due to the announcement of your marriage. However, I believe the stock price will return to normal soon, and your marriage will ultimately benefit thepany.


    When a handsome and sessful man like Dexter announces his marriage, it could be difficult to avoid the media attention and scrutiny thates with being in the public eye.


    Dexter¡¯s smile faltered as he said, ¡°I¡¯d announce it to the public, but I don¡¯t want her pictures getting taken.¡±


    Josie was unaware of the potential consequences. He only announced their marriage to people in the industry, but she would not be happy if reporters caught wind of it and tried to take her pictures.


    In reality, Dexter didn¡¯t mind the public getting wind of their rtionship.


    At the celebration party, there were elderly CEOs who congratted him and asked, ¡°When is Mr. and Mrs. Russell¡¯s wedding ceremony?¡±


    If Dexter had a wedding ceremony, it would be a grand one.


    ¡°I¡¯ll follow my wife¡¯s wishes,¡± he answered.


    He felt a wave of happiness wash over him when he uttered the words, ¡°My wife.¡±


    Many were taken aback by how much he cared for and adored his wife.


    When they arrived at Mason Garden, Josie finally shook off her drowsiness after having dinner.


    She opened her mouth to ask Dexter about Laura and Arnold, but he covered it before she could say a word. ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired? Go take a bath first.¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not¡­¡±


    But he wouldn¡¯t back down. ¡°Listen to me. Go.¡±


    The living room was stifling, so he rolled up his sleeves and squatted down to repair the slightly damaged table.


    He went about fixing the table with the confidence of a man who had done it a thousand times before.


    She couldn¡¯t understand why he didn¡¯t ask the maid for help. She squatted down next to him and asked, ¡°Do you need a hand?¡±


    He raised his head and arched his eyebrows in frustration. ¡°I told you to go now.¡±


    Josie was surprised and recoiled, nearly losing her bnce.


    Dexter quickly caught Josie by the shoulders and steadied her before gently cing his


    hands on her back. ¡°Are you alright?¡± he asked, concern etched on his face.


    Josie was truly taken aback and didn¡¯t want to stay any longer. Why is he acting this way? Her tears welled up as she red at him. Soon after, she stood up and stormed towards the bathroom.


    She thought he would go after her, but she could hear nothing but the sound of her own heartbeat as she approached the door.


    How can he be like this? He¡¯s so kind and caring whenforting me, but he turns into apletely different person once I¡¯m home.

 Chapter 201

    Chapter 201 Recruiting Employees


    At night, Josie couldn¡¯t sleep well. Shey on Dexter¡¯s arm as shey awake in the dark.¡°Dexter, why did you take me to the celebration dinner today?¡±


    After a momentary silence, the man turned to the side and hugged her tighter. ¡°You don¡¯t like suchasions.


    The role of Mrs. Russell is too demanding. I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t bear it. You didn¡¯t tell me I must carry out such duties when we signed the marriage certificate.¡±


    Dexterughed lightly when he heard her taunting him. ¡°Didn¡¯t you argue with me about Jesse because ofthis?¡±


    This hit Josie¡¯s sore spot, and she was slightly startled in the dark. She wanted to say, do you think it¡¯s because of this? Instead, her lips twitched, and she said, ¡°You gave in to me so easily. How considerate.¡±


    ¡°If I canpromise, you should too.Josie didn¡¯t say anything else. She felt slightly cold for the whole night.After being promoted to design department head, Josie was busier than usual. She was still a so-called corporate ve when she returned to work, not Mrs. Russell.


    The design department alwayscked manpower. They needed neers who were talented and ingenious. Josie had interviewed a few people for the past few days.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, this is a postgraduate student that graduated from Wavery¡¯s famous design institute.¡± A staff member handed her two sheets of paper. ¡°On the other hand, this person doesn¡¯t have a great educational background and went to a vocational school, but he seems very creative.¡±


    ¡°Both have great qualities. See who does better during the interview.¡±


    Josie nced at the papers. The first had a great r¨¦sum¨¦, but the second had an attractive design style. She took note of the person¡¯s name. He was a twenty-three-year-old man named Kevan Quiring.


    ¡°Have they passed the second round of interviews?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡±


    What remained was the third interview with her.


    Their task during the interview was to design on a whiteboard. Josie gave them their challenge before the two interviewees started their design on the whiteboard, She would evaluate their design reasoning ording to their performance.


    Kevan looked honest, amiable, andposed.


    Two hourster, Josie discussed with other colleagues and chose Kevan. He wasn¡¯t surprised. It was as though victory had always been within his reach. The other interviewee was upset. As Josie was leaving, he rushed to her. ¡°Why was he chosen? He graduated from a vocational school!¡±


    Jovie smiled indifferently and exined. ¡°Academic qualifications don¡¯t matter in design,¡±


    After that, she felt a zing gaze from Kevan. He admired her but also felt curious about her.


    At this time, a figure suddenly entered from the outside. ¡°What about me?¡±


    Everyone looked over in astonishment to see a tall woman in a green haute couture outfit with a Chanel bag. She walked in casually, looking very arrogant.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    The woman from yesterday¡­ Laura Brandel¡­


    Josie suddenly felt annoyed. She stood upright. ¡°Did youe for an interview? You¡¯re not on the list.¡±


    ¡°Interview? If I were to work here, I¡¯d be the boss.¡± Laura walked to Josie. ¡°You¡¯re not good enough for me.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand what Laura wanted, and Josie raised her brows in frustration. ¡°Ms. Brandel, I suggest that you look for Mr. Russell if you want to make trouble. It¡¯s unfavorable for either side if anything happens. What do you think?¡±


    Laura didn¡¯t answer Josie at once. Laura walked to Kevan¡¯s design on the whiteboard and picked up a marker pen. She drew on Kevan¡¯s design. ¡°In my opinion, this is the optimal solution for the design.¡±


    Everyone looked over. No one imagined that Kevan¡¯s design would look better after she drew on it. She was proficient in this field.

 Chapter 202

    Chapter 202 Being Challenged


    ¡°Ms Warren, the talent you recruited is average, just like you¡±


    Josie stood on the spot. It seemed like Laura was so confident because she had investigated everything about Josic


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s a shame that I¡¯m the head of Russell Group¡¯s design department. No one can change this fact.¡±


    Laura raised her brows and said haughtily. ¡°Let¡¯s see who calls the shots.¡±


    After that, she walked to the elevator before everyone and pressed the button to the highest floor.


    Some people were discussing Laura. Where did this womane from? ¡°Ms. Warren, do you know her?¡±


    Josie smiled bitterly. ¡°I just met her yesterday.¡±


    She paused and walked to Kevan, who had an embarrassed expression. ¡°Don¡¯t be discouraged. You¡¯re new, so you can¡¯tpare yourself to her. She has a good grasp on the basics.¡±


    Kevan felt warm toward this gentle woman. He looked down. I¡¯ve been arrogant, but I feel like I¡¯m only mediocre.¡±


    ¡°How can that be? Are you questioning my foresight?¡± Josie said half-jokingly.


    ¡°No. Ms. Warren, as far as I know, Russell Group¡¯s design department is dominated by people with good educational backgrounds. Why did you choose me?¡±


    ¡°I said that academic qualifications aren¡¯t important in design. Don¡¯t undervalue yourself. Come in for onboarding on Monday. You will learn a lot here and outdo that woman just now.¡± Josie took a deep breath as she smiled and consoled Kevan.


    Kevan felt a lot better, and his gaze was warm.


    ing a busy morning, Josie was about to go for lunch when she suddenly received Dexter¡¯s c. ¡®Come up!


    She held her cell phone tightly and felt slightly heavy-hearted. In the end, she walked to the elevator. She wanted to know what had happened.


    Dexter had recorded her thumbprint in his personal elevator. She coulde and go as she pleased. No one other than the staff on the highest floor knew about it.


    Not many people were around during noon.


    When she went up, Dexter was unexpectedly still meeting with executives of externalpanies that Russell Group was working with. It was an important meeting.


    When Dexter heard the noise, he looked out and waved Ivy over to speak to her. Not long after, Ivy, who had been taking meeting minutes, walked out. ¡°Ms. Warren, Mr. Russell is still in a meeting. Please wait for


    a moment.¡±


    Ivy was polite enough, and Josie didn¡¯t answer. Josie didn¡¯t care that Ivy had called her ¡®Ms. Warren! Ivy seemed to be deliberately avoiding something. However, it wasn¡¯t important.


    Ivy led her to the greenhouse. Many fresh flowers and nts were freely growing in the upscale office.


    After the food was sent over, Ivy was about to serve it when Josie stopped her. ¡°I¡¯ll wait.¡±


    I¡¯ll wait for him.


    Josie casually grabbed a book on a small bookshelf and looked down while flipping through it earnestly. Her thoughts flickered quickly. Didn¡¯t Laurae up just now?


    ¡°Josie.¡± Ivy didn¡¯t leave. She stared at Josie.


    Josie looked up from the book and said with a forced smile, ¡°Is something wrong, Ms. Miller?¡±Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°As Mr. Russell¡¯s wife, you shouldn¡¯t interfere in his work.¡±


    Ivy was solemn, but Josie was nonchnt. Josie sat on the swing in the greenhouse and swayed absentmindedly. ¡°Are you referring to Jesse? I didn¡¯t ask him to terminate the partnership.¡±


    ¡°Do you dare im that you¡¯ve said nothing? Mr. Russell isn¡¯t an emotional person when ites to making decisions. The project with Jesse was already starting, but Russell Group had to pay a penalty of millions because of you.¡±


    ¡°Millions. My humiliation wasn¡¯t in vain.¡± Josie waved her fingers as she counted.


    Ivyughed in her rage. She quickly taunted Josie. ¡°Don¡¯t be too pleased with yourself. Mr. Russell won¡¯t change his mind because of you unless something is wrong with the person. Do you know that Jesse is being investigated for illegal conduct? Wavery News will release this in a few days.¡±

 Chapter 203

    Chapter 203 Confidently Introducing Her


    Josie didn¡¯t expect it. She was caught off guard and thought about what Arnold had said. I advise you to differentiate whether he¡¯s doing it for you or for profit. Don¡¯t get trapped


    As it turned out, he was referring to this.


    Ivy was satisfied when she saw Josie¡¯s awful expression. Ivy turned to leave the greenhouse


    On the other end, Dexter wasn¡¯t very focused in the meeting. The other executives had a glimpse of the graceful figure just now, and they caught each other¡¯s eye with a smile. That must be Mr. Russell


    They heard Dexter had publicly announced his marriage at yesterday night¡¯s celebration dinner. This made them more curious about what his wife was like.


    From a quick nce, she seemed great.


    When the meeting ended. Dexter got up to send everyone off. He passed the greenhouse and saw Josie sitting on the swing through the transparent ss. She looked down to read, but her gaze wasn¡¯t on the book. She was holding up her head with one hand as she stared nkly. The warm,te autumn sunlight fell on her, reflecting her gentleness and beauty.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    He didn¡¯t know what she was thinking about.


    The corners of the man¡¯s mouth curved unconsciously. Josie felt his gaze, and she looked up. She saw them looking at her from the outside.


    Dexter waved at her and gestured for her toe out.


    Josie was slightly unsure, so she moved slowly. He didn¡¯t signal for her to stop, so she put on a bold face and walked out.


    He held her hand appropriately, and his gaze was warm. He smiled. ¡°Let me introduce my wife to everyone. This is Josie Warren.¡±


    He suddenly felt like he would never tire of saying the words ¡®my wife.


    All the executives were astonished by the temperament of the girl before them. She was calm, collected, and well-matched with Dexter when they stood together. None of the pretty vixens outside couldpare with her.


    No one expected the person in charge of Russell Group to be so infatuated with his wife.


    They greeted Josie. ¡°Hello, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie never thought Dexter would present her to people in the business world. What does this mean?


    But since he had introduced her to outsiders, she had to live up to her role.


    Josie politely shook each of their hands under Dexter¡¯s guidance. She greeted them warmly and smiled appropriately.


    Shortly after, someone praised Josie as they were leaving. ¡°I¡¯m sure you must be a good match for Mr.


    Russell if you married him. I never thought that I would have the chance to meet you. I think you¡¯re amazing and elegant.¡±


    Josie thought that theirpliments were insincere. She had a fake smile. ¡°Thank you¡±


    After sending them off, Dexter signaled her to enter his office with him. He asked, ¡°I just heard that Laura was making trouble for you at the dinner yesterday.¡±


    It¡¯s no wonder she was upset yesterday.


    Josie followed him. ¡°Your sources are quite slow, Mr. Russell.¡±


    When the sensor doors opened, they saw Laura sitting in the visitor¡¯s lounge. She immediately rose when she saw someone entering. ¡°Mr. Russell!¡± She stopped abruptly and gritted her teeth when she saw Josie.


    Josie waved at Ivy provokingly. ¡°We meet again, Ms. Brandel.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°Laura!¡± Dexter shouted. ¡°Apologize.¡±


    Laura¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Why must I apologize to her?¡±


    you forgotten what you did yesterday?¡± Dexter put both his hands into his pockets. Everyone was and no one dared to say a word.


    She infuriated me first.¡±


    ¡°What did she do to infuriate you?¡±


    Laura was dumbstruck and couldn¡¯t answer. After that, she took a breath and walked to Dexter with tears in her eyes. ¡°But, Mr. Russell, how could you do this? You got married quietly. We weren¡¯t prepared at all.¡±

 Chapter 204

    Chapter 204 The Man Saving the Damsel in Distress


    Laura was good at acting, and Josie was amused Josie was tired from standing in her heels, so she leaned against the wall.


    ¡°Getting married is my personal matter. Don¡¯t you know now?¡± Russell didn¡¯t seem to understand. He took a napkin and wiped Laura¡¯s tears,


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of finding out now? Laura pointed at Josie. ¡°It¡¯s her. She doesn¡¯t have any status or good looks. How can she marry you? Are you roleying as Prince Charming from Cindere, Mr. Russell!


    Since Laura was pointing at Josie, Josie didn¡¯t care. She stuck out her tongue at Laura and answered in low voice. ¡°Because I¡¯m shameless,¡±


    ¡°What the heck!¡± Laura heard it. She wanted to scratch Josie¡¯s face with her freshly manicured nails.


    Dexter held Laura back, and his expression was no longer rxed. ¡°Where are your manners?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡±


    That¡¯s enough. Do you not have anything to do? Just take care of yourself. Leave.¡±


    Laura saw Dexter defending Josie, so she stamped her feet in a fury. She said, ¡°I¡¯ve told Summer about this.¡±


    Josie tried to recall how often she had heard Summer¡¯s name.


    Dexter casually took out a pack of cigarettes while asking. ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ I just think you shouldn¡¯t be with this woman.¡±


    ¡°Even if it isn¡¯t Josie, it won¡¯t be Summer.¡± After that, he shouted, ¡°Ivy, send her off.¡±


    Ivy opened the door and entered shortly. ¡°Ms. Brandel.¡±


    Laura took a deep breath. She was almost out of breath from her rage but didn¡¯t dare to say anything. She walked to Josie and gritted her teeth. ¡°Watch out!¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care.


    She didn¡¯t expect Laura to raise her voice suddenly. ¡°Even if I were to apologize, I would apologize to Mr. Carter. The alcohol was spilled on his suit. It was nice for the man to save the damsel in distress. Mr. Russell, your pampered wife is quite capable,¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart immediately thumped. She subconsciously looked at Dexter¡¯s tall and straight figure.


    After Laura left, Dexter turned. The cigarette was between his lips, and he signaled for her to take a lighter.


    Josie slowly came to her senses. She picked up a lighter from the table before lighting his cigarette. She


    felt nervous.


    When she was about to pull back, he caught her hand. ¡°Rescuing the damsel in distress.¡±


    The Man Saving the Damsel in Distress


    Josie shivered slightly. ¡°It was a coincidence. Arnold happened to see me.¡±


    Dexter examined her, and his gaze was unclear. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me yesterday?¡±


    ¡°It seemed like you knew her well, so I didn¡¯t dare to say anything. I didn¡¯t want to make more trouble.¡± Josic stood upright forcefully so she would still look poised.


    ¡°Arnold treats you quite well.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t say anything else. Josie didn¡¯t know how he felt.


    Josie didn¡¯t dare to ignore him. She went closer. ¡°Are you jealous?¡±


    Dexter puffed on the cigarette harder than usual and only exined after a moment, ¡°Laura is the daughter of a long-time family friend. She¡¯s connected to me in a few ways and like a younger sister.¡±


    She never imagined he would exin on his own ord and was slightly surprised. ¡°I¡¯m guessing that she must be close to Summer. Mr. Russell, do you think that the woman will destroy me?¡±


    This amused Dexter. He held the cigarette in his mouth between his fingers and raised her chin. ¡°If something like this happens to you again,e to me.¡±


    Josie nodded at once.


    ¡°Have you eaten?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Dexter held her hand and led her to the break room.


    He saw the woman behind him ambling, seeming very unwilling. She wasn¡¯t like the calm and collected. Mrs. Russell just now. She seemed more like a child.


    Dexter could only console her good-naturedly. ¡°Those people you met just now are in high positions. They won¡¯t spread rumors.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 205

    Chapter 205 On the Verge


    At the height of how things were developing, only a few people had met Mrs. Russell up until now. Josie feared that not only would they spread rumors, but they would also exaggerate and praise her to the high heavens. But because of Dexter¡¯s position, no one would dare to gossip and meddle for the sake of their future and prospects.


    An office housekeeper from the secretarial office came to serve them and was slightly surprised when she saw Josie. The office housekeeper looked calm because she was professional, but in reality, she was overwhelmed.


    Isn¡¯t this Ms. Warren from the design department? She¡¯s pretty incredible. She got into an ident because of a project. and news about it spread in thepany for a few days.


    The assistant was different from the executives just now. She was astonished when she found out that Josie was Mrs. Russell. She also thought to herself. Oh. It¡¯s no wonder Josie constantly appears. It¡¯s because of this.


    Lunch was sumptuous, but Josie was preupied. She looked at the time out of habit, and the man saw it. His annoyance surfaced. ¡°It¡¯s still a long time until work ends.¡±


    Dexter saw through Josie, so she looked away resentfully, wanting to finish her lunch quickly.


    She feared more people would be on that floor and in the elevator. It would be difficult to exin if others saw her.


    When she saw the man in front of her slowly getting angry because of her impatience, she tried to appease him. ¡°What do you want to eat tonight?¡±


    Dexter nced at her. ¡°Are you going to cook?¡±


    ¡°If I¡­¡±


    ¡°Barbequed ribs, sweet tea ribs, chili-zed ribs, grilled ribs.¡± Before Josie could finish, the man brazenly listed out a few dishes.


    Josie was startled. Since when does he love ribs so much?


    In the end, Dexter was the first to crack. He looked at Josie¡¯s slightly dull expression and broke intoughter.


    He stroked her head and heard her ask, ¡°Since when do you love eating ribs?¡±


    The man¡¯s smile finally rxed. He signaled for her to eat. ¡°I was kidding.¡±


    Despicable!Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Josie ignored him and looked down as she dug into her food.


    She wanted to leave after lunch, but the man held her hand and led her to sit in hisp. As she faced him in his arms, his voice was hoarse. ¡°There¡¯s no rush. Why don¡¯t you take a nap with me?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that Josie had impure thoughts. It wouldn¡¯t end well if he kept clinging to her.


    Dexter ignored her. He buried his head in her corbone, and his short hair pricked her soft skin. It was slightly painful and itchy.


    As Josie held his head, sheughed aloud as he nuzzled against her. ¡°Hey! The door isn¡¯t shut.¡±


    Dexter raised his head, and it seemed like an entire gxy was in his smiling eyes. ¡°They won¡¯t dare to


    In their current position, Josie towered over him slightly. Josie was slightly above him, and the man raised his head to seek her kisses. She lowered her head lightly. Her lips brushed his soft and thin lips.


    Once they touched, a fire was ignited.


    Every time they kissed deeply, their lips and tongues intertwined. It was hard for them to break apart. Josie found it hard to breathe shortly after, but he still didn¡¯t want to let her go. He sustained her with his breath.


    His hands were sneaky as he caressed her all over. He wasn¡¯t a solemn business executor at that moment.


    When she felt the warmth of his hands, a video that Josie had previously watched appeared in her mind at the wrong time.


    Someone had asked, ¡°Why do men like to touch women¡¯s bosoms when they kiss?¡±


    The answer was, ¡°Because they have nothing to do with their hands. They have to hold on to something.¡±


    What a lewd trick.


    Josie almost couldn¡¯t take it. His hands were skilled, and his lust was hard to extinguish. She escaped from his arms with some difficulty. She gasped. ¡°There isn¡¯t much time¡­.¡±

 Chapter 206

    Chapter 206 An ident at the Construction Site


    Therefore, Dexter didn¡¯t push it.


    After a while, the Landon case was settled, and Landon merged with Russell Group.


    It was the first snow of Wavery. The ground was covered in white, and the calm sea was far away.


    Small clouds of fog appeared when people breathed.


    During her lunch break, Josie left the greenhouse after she finished her book. She looked out of the French windows and saw the scenery from over seventy floors up. The snow kept falling, and everything before her was a dazzling white. Snowkes fell on everyone unrelentingly.


    She stepped out of the greenhouse and took the initiative to walk to Dexter¡¯s office. It was empty. She guessed that he was probably at a meeting.


    She waited for a while, but he didn¡¯t appear.


    Therefore, she looked around his office from top to bottom for the first time.


    Documents were stacked neatly on his desk, and a thermos cup sat beside his notebook. It was the typical desk of a CEO.


    The essential information should have been on hisputer, but he had many. Josie didn¡¯t know the passwords to them.


    A dazzling lineup of books was on a bookshelf behind his desk. If this were anyone else, Josie would have thought they were pretentious. Still, she understood the man whom the office belonged to. He must have read all the books. She took one book at random and saw notes in his own handwriting.


    A few cactus pots were on his desk, along with some nts she didn¡¯t know. There were no flowers.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie put her hands behind her back and pondered momentarily. She turned and walked to the greenhouse, taking two pots of jasmine flowers with her. She reced some cactus pots on his table with flowers. The jasmines were fragrant. If he were tired from working and looked up, he would rx slightly after seeing the beautiful flowers.


    Dexter still hadn¡¯t returned..


    She decided to leave.


    She went down as usual. Unfortunately, she bumped into Kevan today.


    She didn¡¯t know where he hade from. He tapped her shoulder and asked, ¡°Where did you go, Ms. Warren?¡±


    Josie was caught off guard. She was momentarily astonished before answering, ¡°The rooftop¡­..¡±


    Kevan was surprised. ¡°Rooftop? Then I must have been mistaken. I thought you came out of Mr. Russell¡¯s personal elevator. I was taken aback.¡±


    Josie said nothing. She started perspiring in the heated room, feeling slightly fearful.


    Kevan was quick-witted. ¡°But why were you on the rooftop?¡±


    Josie walked to her office and waved her cell phone. Her expression didn¡¯t change as she lied. ¡°To take photos of the snow.¡±


    Kevan suddenly became interested. ¡°I took many photos today too!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s snowing at home too, but the office looks better. Do you want to see my pictures?¡±


    He¡¯s pretty talkative, Josie didn¡¯t reply, and Kevan quickly changed the topic. ¡°Since it¡¯s snowing. I will buy everyone a meal at the pasta restaurant. Do you want toe, Ms. Warren?¡±


    He asked tentatively.


    ¡°You started working not long ago, Kev. Do you have the money?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Since I¡¯m new, it¡¯s a good chance to meet with everyone.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to see.¡±


    When it was time to get off work, a group of people energetically followed Kevan to the elevators. Josie deliberately slowed down and only walked out once they left.


    She had beening and going with Dexter for the past few days. She had to inform him.


    She was surprised to find Dexter¡¯s car gone in the parking lot. She walked around but couldn¡¯t find it.


    At this time, she received a call from Dexter. The man¡¯s voice was deep, as usual. ¡°Have youe down?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get Mason Garden¡¯s driver to pick you up. He¡¯s on the way. Can you wait for a moment?¡±


    Josie noticed something and was astonished. ¡°Where are you?¡±


    ¡°Something happened at the Sylmark construction site. I¡¯m going to the hospital now.¡± His tone didn¡¯t change.

 Chapter 207

    Chapter 207 A Chance Encounter


    Work at the Sylmark construction site had started not long ago and was supervised strictly. How can something happen out of a sudden?


    Josie immediately furrowed her brows. ¡°Is it critical?¡±


    ¡°The hospital is trying to save the victim. I don¡¯t know the severity yet. I have to go to the hospital to check.¡± On the other end, Dexter seemed to have lowered his car window. The sound of wind blowing into the car was slightly loud. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. You just have to return to Mason Garden safely


    He was worried about her because the roads were slippery since it was snowing.


    Josie could only answer, ¡°Alright.¡±


    The driver arrived quickly. After she got into the car, he asked, ¡°Are we returning to Mason Garden, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    She was looking at her cell phone, and Kevan had sent the location of their restaurant. She thought of his warm invitation from just now and wanted to go for his sake. She pondered and said, ¡°Not yet.¡±


    Since it was snowing, it was nice to eat warm pasta. The team sat around the table with wine and hot tes of pasta.


    ¡°Congrattions on passing probation, Kevan. Continue working hard,¡± Josie said with a smile as she raised a ss to him.


    Kevan clinked his ss against hers and thanked her gratefully.


    After three rounds of wine, everyone rxed gradually and started gossiping about other departments.


    ¡°I believe the year¡¯s biggest news belongs to none other than ire. Russell Group forbids office romance. How did she dare to date Mr. Yves? How reckless of her.¡±


    As the person said it, they nudged Josie with their elbow. ¡°As a matter of fact, you¡¯re pretty lucky, Ms. Warren. You wouldn¡¯t be the head if ire didn¡¯t go on the wrong path.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, right. Two department heads left consecutively. It seems like this position was destined for Ms. Warren.


    This sounded malicious, and it was clearly taunting Josie. Alice couldn¡¯t take it and wanted to answer, but Josie held her back. ¡°I¡¯m lucky, but you need to learn to grab opportunities thate. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    They looked at each other and said nothing more. However, they resented each other.


    Josie understood that people would be dissatisfied with her since she was in a high position. She wasn¡¯t interested in proving either of them right or wrong. Colleagues were just colleagues at the end of the day. They wouldn¡¯t be friends who understood each other.


    Kevan saw the tense atmosphere and said, ¡°So Russell Group forbids office romance¡­¡­.


    Someone couldn¡¯t help butugh, and the attention was on Kevan. They started talking about it.


    Josie was distracted. She looked down at her cell phone and wanted to text Dexter asking him how things were. But she thought he might not be in the mood to reply, so she didn¡¯t message him.


    Alice saw it. ¡°What¡¯s up with you today? Is something wrong?¡±Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I don¡¯t quite like gathering like this.¡± Josie looked for an excuse. At this time, the waiter served them tiramisu.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb you. Since this is the first snow day in Wavery, here¡¯s aplimentary slice of tiramisu for everyone. We hope that it will bring you luck.¡±


    Wavery was in the south, and eating tiramisu on special asions was customary. Everyone liked its significance, so they quickly scarfed down the cake.


    Josie looked out the window. It was snowing. An apartment was opposite the restaurant, and few people left their homes at such a time. But at this time, someone opened the doors. A woman dressed thinly walked out, and an unusual man followed her. He looked familiar.


    Arnold Carter?!


    Why is he here?


    Josie was lost in thought. She stared at them attentively. Perhaps it was because of how entranced Josie was looking at them. Arnold happened to look up, and his gaze met hers.


    ¡°What are you looking at with such focus?¡± Alice also looked over, baffled.


    Josie snapped out of it. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. I saw someone familiar.¡±

 Chapter 208

    Chapter 208 A Special Assistant


    When she subconsciously raised her head again, she was astonished that Arnold hadn¡¯t left. He stood under the streetlight, leaning against it as he lit a cigarette. He looked lonely and miserable as he stood inthe snow.


    Her blood froze, and she said to Alice softly, ¡°I¡¯m going out for a while. I need to do something.¡±


    She opened the doors of the pasta restaurant, and the coldness overwhelmed her. She made her way to Arnold and only realized that the woman hadn¡¯t left when she approached. She stood nearby, looking weary as she looked at them with a frown.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was in disbelief. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Arnold smiled with a cigarette between his lips. ¡°I see that you knew I was waiting for you. You came out so quickly.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t take it. She stepped to the side and blocked half his view. ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. What are you doing here?¡±


    She wasn¡¯t so self-obsessed to think that Arnold had followed her here, so her gaze fell on that woman.


    Arnold introduced her calmly. ¡°This is my assistant, Lillian Haupert.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t quite understand. ¡°Your assistant is quite special, Mr. Carter.¡±


    He didn¡¯t get angry. He looked highly rxed, and the corners of his mouth curved. ¡°Not everyone is as indifferent as Dexter. The office is boring enough. Why would I hire someone equally boring?¡±


    Josie folded her arms. She was slightly cold. ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else you want to say, I¡¯m leaving. I¡¯m having apany gathering.¡±


    ¡°Josic,¡± Arnold called after her, ¡°let¡¯s walk together.¡±


    shrewd. Josie was surprised. But when she looked at the pasta restaurant, she wasn¡¯t interested in returning. As for the woman who was standing at one side, she had left. The woman was pretty


    ¡°¡­ We¡¯ve been walking for twenty minutes.¡±


    It was slippery and hard to walk. The initially short journey took a long time.


    Arnold seemed a little tipsy. He started telling Josie about how he had met Lillian.


    The first time he had met Lillian was at a bar. The girl had heavy but beautiful makeup and yed craps in a booth. If she won, all her expenses would be free. Her voice was as delicate as a nightingale. From the looks of it, she looked like a college student who had yet to graduate. After she won, she shrieked and finished her strong drink quickly without flinching.


    Arnold had been at the bar for work that day. He was intrigued by Lillian.


    He had many women around him and various tricks up his sleeve. She was like a wild card and seemed to enjoy her youth.


    The pretty girl looked up and saw that Arnold was staring at her, so she smiled widely at him. She raised her ss and nodded at him.


    The following morning.


    Arnold woke up in Lillian¡¯s rented room. The two were fully clothed. He was drunk the previous night, so he stayed in her room for the night. Nothing had happened.


    Lillian had almost rolled off the bed while wrapped in her covers. She woke up with no makeup, and she stretched. Her lips were pale, and a freckle was on the tip of her nose. When she saw that the man beside her had yet toe to his senses, she jumped up while grabbing her hair and rushed into the washroom. ¡°Hold on. I¡¯ll take you out to eat once I wash my hair.¡±


    She spoke freely without knowing his identity. It made Arnold feel at ease.


    ¡°You stay here?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Look out the window. I go to the college across the road.¡±


    ¡°Oh, a vocational school?¡±


    ¡°Are you looking down on vocational schools?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Ultimately, Lillian led him down the stairs in sandals with soaking wet hair. She had a coffee in one hand and a bagel in the other. Under themppost, she turned around, looking indifferent yet energetic.

 Chapter 209

    Chapter 209 An Expert on Romance


    But of course, when Arnold¡¯s assistant came to fetch him to his office shortly after, the girl immediately went from energetic to reserved. Are you a big shot?¡±


    Arnold was fascinated by her astonishment. He finished the bagel in his hands and gave her a name card. ¡°You can apply for a job at mypany if you¡¯re interested.¡±


    He thought a girl like her was rare toe by after meeting many hypocrites.


    After that, Lillian came to apply for a job, and he hired her. He ced her by his side.


    Josie was slightly surprised when she heard it. She teased him. ¡°You really are fond of women. Mr. Carter. It¡¯s no wonder Mr. Russell says you¡¯re an expert on romance.¡±


    ¡°Compared to these people, I like your tenacity more, Arnold said flirtatiously.


    Josie couldn¡¯t take it and dared not look at his bright eyes. ¡°You think too highly of me. Mr. Carter. I¡¯m just an ordinary woman. Don¡¯t put me up on a pedestal.¡±


    Arnold looked at her closely. ¡°You¡¯re ordinary indeed.¡±


    It was pretty rude. Josie almost choked.


    ¡°But I like it. Josie, I wasn¡¯t just testing Dexter when I asked him for you the past few times.¡±


    This made Josie vignt. Before she could say anything, a loud honking noise suddenly rang behind them. Arnold reacted quickly and shouted, ¡°Be careful!¡± He pulled her to the side.


    The roads were slippery since it was snowing. The two fell to the ground and were covered in snow. A car lost control and drove into the railing. It was trapped, and there was smoke.


    Josie was trembling in fear, and she couldn¡¯te to her senses for a long time.


    Arnold breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that she was okay. Hey back in the snow, relieved. ¡°Thankfully, I have quick reflexes. Dexter would kill me if you died when you were with me.¡±


    Smoke was billowing in front of them, and Josie shut her eyes at once. Thank you. I will remember that you saved me.¡±


    Arnold smiled. He looked up. ¡°Will you agree to everything I ask you to do?¡±


    This person is fearless. Josie poked his chest viciously. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything that goes against my principles!¡±


    Arnold winced. ¡°You owe me a favor. I will redeem it from you when I need it.¡±


    Josie regretted it. She had just wanted to go for a walk but now unexpectedly owed Arnold a favor.


    The fire and police departments arrived quickly, and Arnold immediately led her away. ¡°It¡¯s very troublesome to be interrogated. I don¡¯t want to waste time.¡±


    It was windy at night, and few people were on the road. He held Josie¡¯s hand and ran wildly to the end of the road. His heart beat furiously.


    Josie was forced to follow him. She could only see his figure from behind as she gasped. She suddenly felt that she was back in her teens.


    After a long time, Arnold stopped running. He let go of her hand. ¡°How are you going home?¡±


    ¡°The driver is waiting for me.¡± Josie looked down and quickly walked to the car. She turned back halfway. ¡°Arnold.¡±


    He listened calmly.


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to sensationalize what happened today. You can¡¯t take advantage of me.¡± She was worried that she would trouble Dexter.


    Arnold¡¯s smile dimmed. He said in a low voice, ¡°Are you so worried about Dexter? Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not him. I¡¯m not so despicable.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the vile one,¡± Josie retorted softly. After that, she quickly ran to the driver waiting for her. The driver asked, ¡°Did your gathering go on for so long, Mrs. Russell? Mr. Russell has called and asked if you¡¯ve returned home.¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°Just like you instructed, I said you¡¯re home.¡±

 Chapter 210

    Chapter 210 Hemorrhage


    She breathed a sigh of relief.


    Back at Mason Garden, she took a hot bath first. Her mind was filled with scenes of Arnold¡¯s carefree boyishness. She couldn¡¯t help but think of someone. She shook her head. Certain people kept appearing. in her mind. She was really in a muddle.


    It was still carly, and it wasn¡¯t twelve yet. Josie didn¡¯t have good vision at night. She casually grabbed a pair of Dexter¡¯s daily use sses from the bedroom before secretly slipping into the kitchen to make something.


    Dexter had just messaged her to say he was about to reach home.


    When Josie was in the process of making it, the noise of a car was heard outside. She rushed out of the kitchen, and the fatigued man was just entering the house. He was in a ck trench coat and looked


    exhausted.


    The man looked up and saw Josie wearing his sses. The corners of his mouth curved, and a smile appeared on his indifferent face. He walked to her and took it off her face. ¡°Why are you wearing my sses?¡±


    ¡°I took it since they were there.¡± Josie rubbed her eyes and asked, ¡°How is the employee?¡±


    ¡°A rock fell on him while he was supervising, and he had a hemorrhage. He¡¯s out of danger now.¡±


    ¡°A hemorrhage?¡± Josie was startled. How could he be okay if he had a hemorrhage?


    ¡°The blood didn¡¯t gush out, did it?¡± Public opinion would be tough on such an ident on the construction site.


    Dexter subconsciously patted her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll deal with it.¡±


    After that, he saw coffee powder on her hands. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m making tiramisu. It¡¯s nice to have tiramisu on a day like this.¡± She looked up and smiled sweetly at


    him.


    Dexter seemed to understand. He pulled her hand and walked to the kitchen. His smile deepened when he saw her progress. ¡°Let¡¯s do it together?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Josie was delighted.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He washed his hands and folded his sleeves to his elbow. He started dipping thedyfingers into the coffee. Josie wanted to help, but he stopped her. ¡°Just watch me.


    Josie wanted to say she knew how to make tiramisu too.


    But it was evident that Dexter was skillful. After spreading the mascarpone cream on thedyfingers, he touched Josie¡¯s face with his coffee-soaked fingers. ¡°There¡¯s a coin in my pocket. Help me take it out.¡±


    Josie wiped the cream off his face and stared at him. She knew what he wanted to do. ¡°You¡¯re superstitious?¡±


    ¡°asionally¡±


    It was lucky to find a penny in the tiramisu.


    Josie did this annually with the Warren family. Josie¡¯s mom usually only hid one coin in the tiramisu and made it obvious. When cutting the cake, her mom put it on Justin¡¯s te. Therefore, Justin always found the lucky penny every year.


    Over time, Josie stopped looking forward to getting the coin.


    They put it into the fridge and let it chill for a while.


    However, Dexter didn¡¯t make it obvious. In the end, he found the penny while eating. At that moment. Dexter was both amused and annoyed. He didn¡¯t understand how he was so lucky.


    Josie suppressed herughter. To be honest, Dexter¡¯s tiramisu wasn¡¯t as fancy as the pasta restaurant¡¯s, but she had a big appetite and ate two servings.


    After eating so much, she was distressed. ¡°I want to go on a walk to aid my digestion.¡±


    Dexter was putting the tes on the kitchen counter. He turned her down without looking up. cold. No way.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too


    Josie did not utter a word.


    Dexter raised his head when he felt her emotions. His wet hands touched her face again, and he suddenly approached her. ¡°It¡¯s not that you can¡¯t do anything to aid your digestion. Let¡¯s do something else?¡±


    Josie understood what he meant in a split second. Before she could run, the man forcefully trapped her in his arms and kissed her.


    She was forced to ept it.


    The two were intertwined as they gasped ruggedly.

 Chapter 211

    Chapter 211 The Reality of Being a Married Couple


    Dexter held her waist and heard her rapid breathing. He let out a shortugh.His voice was raspy. ¡°I saw the jasmine flowers.¡±


    Before Josie could answer, he kissed her again. This time, more fervently. When he reached down and carried her, his eyes were clearly lustful. She intuitively felt what was going to happen tonight.


    When they touched each other, it was as if they were electrocuted.


    The man said to her hoarsely in the dim light. ¡°We have time tonight. No one will disturb us.¡±


    Josie felt shy yet impatient. Her face was burning. ¡°Don¡¯t say anything!¡±


    Therefore, Dexter worked his lips differently. He removed her clothes and picked her up around the waist before rushing up the stairs.


    He locked the door of the master bedroom. Josie knew she couldn¡¯t avoid it tonight.


    Dexter was a strong man in every way. His body was scorching, and he turned Josie around to face him.


    ¡°Are you afraid?¡±


    Josie gritted her teeth. ¡°No.¡±


    She could feel that Dexter was strained, but he did everything slowly out of consideration for her. He was extremely gentle. It was initially hard for her to adapt, and she even resisted slightly, but she quickly started to enjoy herself.


    Ultimately, she ascended while pulling herself up on his arm. When she calmed down, there were tears in her eyes. The man was taken aback. ¡°Does it hurt?


    Josie was silent. She didn¡¯t say anything for a long time, and Dexter panicked. He wanted to check on her when she said indistinctly, ¡°We¡¯ve overstepped boundaries, Dexter.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t see Dexter¡¯s face clearly in the dark. His eyelids drooped, and his clothes were half undone. It revealed his sensuous corbone and Adam¡¯s apple. He looked extremely enticing.


    ¡°Do you regret it?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t answer. He didn¡¯t know what she was thinking about.


    After some time, Dexter finally moved. He wanted to turn and leave the bed, but she grabbed his wrist. He looked over, Josie¡¯s firm gaze was at the end of her delicate and fair wrists.


    He was perplexed.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie felt like she was a particle of dust floating in the light. She was slowly sinking into his dark gaze.


    She took the initiative to wrap herself around his neck, and her lips approached his. She could see every fine hair on his face. She was always so flustered every time they touched. How is this man so handsome?


    The Reality of Being a Married Couple


    Dexter suddenly turned from passive to aggressive when Josie¡¯s lips touched his. He held her tightly, almost devouring her with his lips. His savage demeanor was faintly revealed.


    This was the authentic Dexter.


    After a night of pleasure, they hugged each other when they awoke the next day.


    Josie woke up early and looked up at him. She used her fingers to caress his chiseled face. She was satisfied and ted.


    At this time, Dexter¡¯s personal cell phone, which was by the bed, rang. Josie shivered from fright. He turned around casually as he woke up but didn¡¯t answer the call. He let it ring.


    Josie pushed him. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to pick up?¡±


    He caught her fingers but didn¡¯t open his eyes. ¡°Answer it for me.¡±


    The phone rang unrelentingly. Josie gritted her teeth and picked up the cell phone. She saw that it was noted as a long-distance call. ¡°It seems like it¡¯s a call from London. Should I answer it?¡±


    Dexter had opened his eyes and was sizing her up. ¡°I bet you don¡¯t dare to.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡± Josie was provoked. She answered the call and put it on speakerphone.


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡± It was a bleak voice that sounded slightly broken.


    No one answered.


    The other party could only continue. Their voice trembled slightly. ¡°I heard from Laura that you¡¯re married. Is that true?¡±


    Dexter still didn¡¯t say anything. After a long time, Josie took a deep breath and said, ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 212

    Chapter 212 As if They Are Madly in Love


    When the other party heard a woman¡¯s voice, they immediately fell silent. There was hurried breathing before they hung up.


    Josie smiled and looked at the man on the bed. ¡°Doesn¡¯t your heart hurt?¡±


    She was now half-clothed. As Dexter looked at her, the desire in his eyes grew. He pulled her to him again. and kissed her carefully. ¡°My heart yearns for you instead.¡±


    ¡°Dexter! Be gentle¡­ Don¡¯t leave a mark!¡± Josie couldn¡¯t struggle, so she could only cry out loud.


    As the year drew to a close, each department in Russell Group was wrapping things up. Everything seemed peaceful.


    Dexter started to be particrly busy since it was the end of the year. Not seeing him for a few days was expected since he often left the country.


    He left for a week this time. His flight back was dyed, and he returned three hourster than expected. Josie had been waiting for him since she finished dinner. She couldn¡¯t wait for him, so she fell asleep.


    Dexter returned, exhausted. He saw Josie sleeping soundly as shey on the couch, looking very serene.


    Theptop before her showed that she had been working.


    Dexter felt slightly distressed. He removed his coat and put it aside before carrying her to the bed. He took off her covering and tucked her in.


    Josie was half awake when she heard the noise. Her voice was gentle yet hoarse. She murmured, ¡°Was your flight dyed?¡±


    Dexter answered softly as he touched her soft face.


    The man¡¯s scent overwhelmed her. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you sleeping on the bed?¡±


    ¡°I was waiting for you.¡± She couldn¡¯t see well. She tried to rub her eyes, but he stopped her. His voice was even gentler. ¡°What did you do for the past few days when I wasn¡¯t around?¡±


    ¡°Helping you ensure nothing is wrong with the design department¡¯s year-end closing.¡±


    Dexter heard her dissatisfaction and smiled. ¡°Thank you for your hard work, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart raced. It was as though she were really Mrs. Russell.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    She held his hand. ¡°It¡¯s time for you to sleep, right?¡±


    Dexter leaned close to her and kissed her neck softly. ¡°I¡¯ll pour you a ss of water before I sleep.¡±


    Josie must have been exhausted. She didn¡¯t even have the energy to answer. She turned her head to the side and mumbled, ¡°No need.¡±


    But Dexter still got up, poured her a ss of water, and put it on the bedside table where she could grab it casily.


    As if They Are Madly in Love


    It was past two in the morning when Dexter slept after his bath.


    Josie awoke earlier than him the next day. As usual, she wasposing herself as she sat on the bed when. someone held her hand lightly. She didn¡¯t know when the man had awoken. He opened his eyes slightly. and her beautiful face was breathtakingly beautiful under the morning sunlight.


    He reached out and pulled her forcefully. Josie was caught off guard and fell on him.


    She was startled. ¡°You¡¯re awake. It¡¯s so early.¡±


    More importantly, he was in such a position so carly in the morning¡­


    Dexter forcefully pulled her into his arms and touched her face. His voice was slightly raspy. ¡°Why do I feel like you¡¯ve lost weight after not seeing you for a few days?¡±


    Josie disagreed and didn¡¯t know what to say, so she kept quiet.


    Dexter was dissatisfied with her attitude, and his smile dimmed. At the next moment, he started French kissing her.


    He was aggressive in bed. Josie always felt afraid when she saw his burning gaze between their intimate actions. It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want it. It was just that she was exhausted when doing the deed with him. He was unrelenting when excited, and she suspected he would devour her whole.


    Dexter poked Josie where she was ticklish, and she instinctively startedughing. She struggled, and the sensual air instantly dissipated.


    Dexter was clearly startled. He sat up and raised his hand to massage the bridge of his nose. Dexter couldn¡¯t do anything about it. He stroked her hair, ¡°Please bring me my clothes¡­¡±

 Chapter 213

    Chapter 213 Wavery News


    It was as though Josie had been set free.Ivy handled Russell Group¡¯s annual meeting as usual. She worked neatly and tidily, making the proper arrangements. No one else had a say


    It was too cold. Josie carried a stack of documents and walked into the department from the outside. Her hands were slightly red. Kevan, who was having a drink at the side, went up to her at once. ¡°Let me help you, Ms. Jo.¡±


    After working together for some time, he stopped calling her ¡®Ms. Warren¡¯ and called her ¡®Ms. Jo¡¯ instead. Josie didn¡¯t turn him down. She smiled and let him help her.


    Alice went to her and pointed at Kevan¡¯s figure. She said meaningfully, ¡°This fellow has potential and is willing to work. He¡¯s a good kid.¡±


    Josie pretended not to understand Alice¡¯s implied meaning. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m nning to take him along for the next project. He¡¯s a good neer.¡±


    Alice clicked her tongue and sighed. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t understand what I meant. It¡¯s trendy for older women and younger men to date these days. I think he has feelings for you.¡±


    Josie felt exasperated, annoyed, and amused. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t joke around. I¡¯m married. Why would I date a younger man?¡±


    ¡°Save it. You keep saying you¡¯re married, but why haven¡¯t I seen your husband? He has never picked you up from work. I¡¯m even suspecting that you¡¯re lying to me. Is he disabled, or does he not exist?¡±


    Alice felt aggrieved as she spoke. She could tell that Josie felt guilty. I¡¯m not lying¡­ I¡¯m really married. As for him being disabled¡­¡±


    If she had known earlier, she wouldn¡¯t have fabricated a disabled persona for her husband.


    ¡°Actually, you¡¯ve met him.¡± Josie smiled craftily.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. When have I seen him? Why don¡¯t I remember?¡±


    ¡°In any case, you have.¡± Josie smiled and walked into her office. She didn¡¯t say anything else, leaving Alice baffled.


    The weather was cold, but the office was warm. Josie quickly warmed up as she sat in her seat and cked off. Suddenly, a notification popped up on her cell phone. It was news reporting that Jesse Abbott hadmitted tax evasion.


    Josie was startled. She opened Twitter and was shocked to see the Wavery News ount tweet reporting that she hadmitted tax evasion.


    Jesse was first on the trending topics. Everyone was surprised as they discussed it online.


    ¡®Oh, my god. If I remember correctly, she just started to get famous.


    ¡°Tsk. Did she think she could keep it under wraps? She has pretty good resources on hand.¡¯¡±


    ¡®Russell Group was willing to pay a penalty to terminate her contract. It¡¯s because of this


    Jesse was immediately considered unscrupulous. Thews regarding celebrities have grown more constrained in recent years. They would be shut out of the industry if they did something hical. Jesse would be utterly cklisted now that it was reported in the news.


    Josie held her cell phone and sighed. Ivy had previously told her that Dexter terminated Jesse¡¯s contract because he had discovered Jesse¡¯s illegal behavior. It was true, after all. It also meant that he wasn¡¯t punishing Jesse for her sake.


    She took a deep breath and was thankful she hadn¡¯t made assumptions.


    Someone said that Jesse had long been doing such things. Herpany had tried to keep it under wraps but to no avail. It leaked out in the end.


    So that¡¯s the reason.


    Josie leaned against the chair and looked at the snow outside the window. For some reason, she thought of Arnold. His smile was dazzling that snowy night..


    He was also the one who kept warning her not to trust Dexter too much.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Everything was proving to be true, but what could she do? She had a fuzzy feeling in her heart when she thought of Dexter.


    It was as if she had a sense of belonging.


    Jesse didn¡¯t have anything nned today, and she wouldn¡¯t have any work schedule in the future.


    Jesse was still asleep at noon. After calling multiple times without anyone answering, her manager went directly to her house. Before she broke Jesse¡¯s door down. Jesse finally answered the phone. Her voice was weary. ¡°Why are you here? I¡¯ve already been shut out.¡±

 Chapter 214

    Chapter 214 Doomed from the StartBelonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°Open the door!¡±


    Jesse went to open the door with messy hair and bloodshot eyes. Her manager caught a whiff of her and knew that she had gotten drunk the night before.


    She poured a ss of water for her manager. ¡°Do you want some alcohol?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± The veins on her manager¡¯s forehead protruded, and her manager threw her cell phone at Jesse. Things are crazy outside, but you¡¯re in the mood to drink?!¡±


    Jesse was startled. She opened Twitter but didn¡¯t have to search. Her name in the real-time trending topics struck her, and her fingers suddenly trembled. She nervously clicked on the topics one by one.


    Jesse Abbott¡¯s tax evasion.¡±


    ¡®Russell Group denounced Jesse Abbott for fabricating rumors.¡±


    Jesse Abbott¡¯s schemes.


    The trends were too numerous to list.


    ¡°Wow, I remember back when there were rumors about Jesse and Dexter, Russell Group issued a statement. Does anyone remember? Jesse¡¯spany actually wanted to imply that they were a couple. Isn¡¯t it humiliating?¡±


    ¡®She really sensationalized it, after all. I¡¯m not going to be her fan any longer. I¡¯m sad.


    ¡®How embarrassing. Don¡¯t you think that Jesse was very devious at the start? Don¡¯t forget the dirt on her.


    Jesse suddenly threw her cell phone violently on the floor. It fell with a piercing noise. She covered her mouth and shrieked. ¡°Where is the public rtions team? Do we still have money? Quickly pay to take these down!¡±


    Her manager shouted, ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know about public rtions? The entirepany is under pressure now. Would I be standing here if they could be taken down?¡±


    Jesse was dumbstruck.


    She cried bitterly. She was a greedy woman who had just wanted to grease her palms. She never her career would be ruined instead.


    Her manager leaned closer, and her voice was terrifying. ¡°Tell me honestly. Is there something you¡¯re hiding from me? We didn¡¯t threaten Dexter or sensationalize anything after speaking to Dexter in the parking lot that day. Why did he suddenly do such a thing?!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s maneuver was utterly merciless and highly sinister. After today, Jesse¡¯spany would be ridiculed by the business world, and Jesse wouldpletely disappear from the entertainment industry.


    It wasmon to sensationalize rumors in the entertainment circle but umon for Dexter to personally expose Jesse.


    It would have been better if it was someone ordinary, but he was Dexter! What could they do? They could only watch the situation develop.


    They had tried their best not to let the news leak for the past few months but couldn¡¯t keep it under wraps.


    At that moment, Jesse wanted to pay to remove trending topics rted to her. However, she was informed that someone was paying more to keep her trending topics as they were.


    Who else can it be¡­


    One could quickly be famous or fall from grace in the circle.


    Jesse sat paralyzed on the floor against the wall. Her gaze dimmed slowly. ¡°We were doomed from the


    start.¡±


    Perhaps they shouldn¡¯t have used the man from the start.


    She shouldn¡¯t have taken advantage of Dexter¡¯s poprity on the red carpet.


    Nor should she have tried to cause a sensation by restraining him.


    Or hired paid Inte posters to fabricate an ambiguous rtionship between them.


    All the times she had taken advantage of his poprity back then were backfiring on her now.


    When did it start to change?


    Jesse thought about it earnestly, and someone appeared in her mind¡­


    Josie?


    It seemed like Dexter had changed his mind about them sensationalizing the rumors. He didn¡¯t want to silently acknowledge it any longer and started requesting them to stop.


    But they didn¡¯t. Instead, they continued doing it.


    Is it because of that woman? Jesse covered her face with her hands and had a moment of enlightenment in hindsight.


    Her manager walked to her and pulled her hands away. ¡°Why are you crying? We¡¯ve been through so much in these years. Get up!¡±


    ¡°There are many reporters downstairs. We can¡¯t just sit around and ept our fate. You have many scandals now, but you can¡¯t exin everything immediately. It¡¯s not fair to only hear one side of the story!¡±

 Chapter 215

    Chapter 215 Get a Divorce, Jo


    ¡°It¡¯s useless¡­ Jesse mumbled. ¡°Dexter wants to ruin me.¡±


    She even thought he had feelings for her after she was scalded.


    The light had dawned. He had always treated her like a pawn, after all. He had used her to agitate other people and curry favor with that woman.


    She had carried out her illegal behavior secretly. She wouldn¡¯t be investigated if she didn¡¯t leave tracks, but everything had happened so suddenly. There was no prior indication at all. Someone must have added fuel to the fire behind the scenes.


    Not many men in Wavery had such authority as Dexter did. And the person she had offended was none other than Dexter.


    Women always had urate intuitions. It was painful for her toe to a conclusion.


    Josie meant something to him.


    It was almost the end of the year. Josie had settled virtually everything on her hands and wasn¡¯t as busy anymore, so she started going to the hospital more frequently.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Her dad still hadn¡¯t moved.


    Josie sat in front of his hospital bed, and Matthew looked concerned.


    ¡°Jo, don¡¯t worry so much. At least Mr. Warren¡¯s vital signs are still stable.


    ¡°How can I not worry?¡± Josie felt defeated. ¡°Once the new year starts, it¡¯ll be his fourth year like this. What should I do if he doesn¡¯t wake up?¡±


    Matthew stood behind her and unconsciously reached his hand out. He wanted to pat her head and console her, but he didn¡¯t dare do it in the end.


    ¡°Matt.¡± Josie suddenly thought of something. She turned to look at him. ¡°Can I take my dad home for a while during New Year¡¯s?¡±


    Matthew was surprised. ¡°Home? You can if you ensure that his medical equipment is sorted out, but as far as I know, your house¡­¡±


    He wanted to say something but stopped. Ordinary families couldn¡¯t afford the expensive hospitalization. fees, so most would look after the patient at home. Josie¡¯s family couldn¡¯t do so, so she had kept her dad at the hospital for the past few years.


    ¡°I can. I can make arrangements.¡± Josie decided. ¡°Is that alright, Matt?¡±


    Matthew sized up her expression and guessed something. His lips curved disappointedly. ¡°If you can do it, the hospital will naturally approve.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great. I want to spend New Year¡¯s with Dad this year.¡± Josie sounded sad. She was already prepared.


    If her dad didn¡¯t have much time left, spending New Year¡¯s together could make up for her regrets.


    It was silent for a moment. Josie took her cell phone from her bag and slowly typed but deleted everything. She was at a loss.


    Matthew saw it, and his gaze was cold. He asked softly, ¡°Do you need to ask for his permission?¡±


    Josie was startled. She smiled bitterly. ¡°That¡¯s how things are when I depend on him.¡±


    Matthew was pained. ¡°Get a divorce, Jo. I¡¯m a doctor. I can help you fulfill any of your requests.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. She didn¡¯t know what to say momentarily when faced with his burning gaze. She said. ¡°Matt, I can¡¯t get a divorce for now.¡±


    She had been more energetic when she came to the hospital these days, and Matthew had noticed something. He questioned her, ¡°Do you not want to divorce him, or does he not want it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s blood froze, and she didn¡¯t know how to exin it. ¡°It¡¯s tooplicated between us. I can¡¯t get divorced for now.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s expression froze. After a moment, heughed bitterly. ¡°¡­ It may not be entirely bad. You can do anything you want as long as you can protect yourself. Anything you want.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know if he was consoling himself or Josie.

 Chapter 216

    Chapter 216 Save Him


    After that, it was as though he couldn¡¯t stay any longer. He was about to leave the hospital room. Doctors always looked very dignified, and Matthew was no exception Josie suddenly called out to him. ¡°Matt¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± He turned.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost New Year¡¯s. Do you have a girlfriend yet? Your mom must be pushing you to get one.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s gaze dimmed¡­. She is.


    ¡°You should start dating soon. With good genes like yours, it¡¯s a shame not to have children. You should marry a beautiful woman who¡¯s as outstanding as you are.¡±


    Josie advised him sincerely. She really hoped that Matthew could live a good life.


    ¡°I understand.¡± This time, Matthew didn¡¯t stay. He left the hospital room, and Josie couldn¡¯t hear the emotion in his voice.


    The hospital room was quiet. Josie sighed and sat beside her dad as she massaged him. She talked to herself. ¡°Dad, you hope for Matt¡¯s happiness, too, right? He¡¯s a good man. He¡¯s our benefactor.¡±


    Paul didn¡¯t react. Only the sounds of the ECG reminded her that he was still alive.


    The end of the year was the busiest time for Dexter. He had many social gatherings.


    Josie usually waited for him until the wee hours of the night, but sometimes she couldn¡¯t stay up. tonight. She had called Dexter¡¯s secretary. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell is still upied. The other executives aren¡¯t letting him go. I think they¡¯re going to go for another round.¡±


    Like


    It was no surprise to Josie. She didn¡¯t demand anything. ¡°I understand. Take good care of him. I¡¯m going to sleep.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± The secretary blurted out subconsciously. She never thought Josie would be


    untroubled.


    ¡°Is there something wrong?¡± Josie was feeling sleepy.


    It was troublesome when other people found out she was Mrs. Russell. She couldn¡¯t be herself and do as she pleased.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, tonight¡¯s social engagement is at Heaven on Earth. The other executives asked for mu models who were first-rate beauties. Aren¡¯t you worried?¡± The secretary sputtered. It was unimagin her. Every woman would want to grab on tightly to a man like Dexter.


    But Josie seemed indifferent.


    Josie paused. ¡°Is Ms. Miller there tonight?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not worried if Ms. Miller is around,¡± Josie answered quickly. Ivy likes Dexter so much.


    She won¡¯t let any woman approach him. I don¡¯t have to be there.


    +5 Bonus


    The secretary was surprised by Josie¡¯s reasoning. ¡°But¡­ everyone knows that Ms. Miller¡­¡± The secretary gritted her teeth. She faced the man¡¯s gaze and said, ¡°Mrs. Russell, why don¡¯t youe here? Save Mr. Russell from this.¡±


    After that, the secretary hung up.


    Josie was taken aback. This was the disadvantage of being a wife. No matter the time, she still had to care for her husband.


    She took a deep breath and opened her wardrobe. She wore a long dress, a coat, and a pair of Valentinos. She was well-dressed.


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to care about Dexter. She feared she would overstep boundaries and want more from him if she cared too much. Not only would she want him to fulfill her physical needs, but also her emotional needs¡­


    Then. Josie would be worried about losing him. She didn¡¯t like that feeling.


    Heaven on Earth was as bustling as usual. This time, no server stopped her. Calvin had specially informed the staff that she could walk in freely.


    Dexter was on the highest floor, and his secretary came to her. ¡°Mrs. Russell, those women are beautiful. Even Ms. Miller can¡¯t deal with them.¡±


    Josie took off her coat and passed it to the secretary, revealing her full bosom and long legs. Although her appearance wasn¡¯t stunning, she had a pretty good figure. Otherwise, Dexter wouldn¡¯t torment her so much in bed.

 Chapter 218

    Chapter 218 You Don¡¯t Have to Ask Me


    Josie¡¯s fingers turned white, and she pointed at the ungrateful man. ¡°Would I be like a peacock if not for you?¡±


    He smiled indifferently and signaled for Ivy and his secretary to leave. The former was unwilling, but she yielded in the end. She left darkly with the secretary.


    After leaving the private room, Ivy had an awful expression. ¡°Did you call Josie?¡±


    ¡°She called¡­¡± The secretary didn¡¯t dare to look at Ivy. ¡°But Mr. Russell prompted me to ask her toe here.¡±


    After that, Ivy¡¯s expression turned nastier. She took a deep breath and quickly walked to the elevator.


    In the private room, Dexter reached out and gestured for Josie toe to him. She looked slightly reserved now that she wasn¡¯t putting on an act. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Dexter embraced her and touched her ice-cold fingers. ¡°Was it cold on the way here?¡±


    ¡°It was worth it, no matter how cold it was. At least you¡¯ll have a peaceful year-end.¡± Josie smiled. ¡°How are you going to repay me?¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter said absentmindedly, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡±


    Josie was slightly nervous and hesitant. ¡°I have a slightly unreasonable request. It¡¯s absurd. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll get angry.¡±


    It was rare for her to say such things. Dexter was grim. ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°Will you do it for me if I ask?¡±


    In the silent private room, his pitch-dark eyes were fascinating. He didn¡¯t answer Josie and only held her hand tightly. She understood and cleared her throat. She spoke slowly. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­ I¡¯m considering. bringing my dad back to Mason Garden for the New Year¡¯s.¡±


    When she said it, she stared at Dexter¡¯s expression and wanted to catch his response, but he didn¡¯t react from the start until the end.


    The corners of his lips were curving downward, and she immediately exined upon seeing him silent. I¡¯m afraid my dad won¡¯t wake up, so I want to spend New Year¡¯s with him. You know what state the Warren family is in, and it¡¯s unsuitable for a patient¡­ so Mason Garden¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Dexter suddenly interrupted her in a low voice. ¡°Josie.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Mm.¡±


    ¡°Did


    you have to hesitate for so long to tell me this?¡± He was in a bad mood, and his voice was deep.


    She didn¡¯t understand, so she did not utter a word.


    Dexter was slightly disappointed and exasperated at her. ¡°You¡¯re now Mrs. Russell. You can make any decision you want. Moreover, he¡¯s your family. Do you think I would disagree?¡±


    Josie only understood what he meant after a while. Sheughed in exasperation. Josie extended her arms and put them around his neck. She leaned close to him. ¡°Thank you. Dexter.¡±


    The man¡¯srge hand held her head as he stroked it gently. ¡°Bring him back. Perhaps he will react to the outside world.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa has wanted to meet your family. I¡¯ll also bring Grandpa back, and then we can spend New Year¡¯s together.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to describe her feelings at that moment. She was on cloud nine and in high spirits. The feelings she had for him gradually grew to great heights.


    After today, Dexter saw that Josie didn¡¯t have much to do, so he told her to participate in the annual meeting¡¯s design aspect. Ivy and Josie had to work together professionally.


    Josie realized the importance of the annual meeting and didn¡¯t dare to do it. ¡°I need much more experience for the annual meeting¡¯s design aspect. I¡¯ve never done it before. Ms. Miller can deal with it alone. Why¡­¡±


    Dexter said indifferently, ¡°She can deal with it, but you must participate.¡±


    Ivy stood at one side and felt grieved but kept quiet. She had worked with Dexter for years and understood he wasying the groundwork for Josie.


    Mm¡­ It¡¯s only natural toy the groundwork for Mrs. Russell¡­

 Chapter 219

    Chapter 219 Groping


    After leaving Dexter¡¯s office, Josie stood still and said to Ivy, ¡°Ms. Miller, I apologize in advance for anymistakes.¡±


    Ivy stood upright and smiled insincerely. ¡°It¡¯s just an annual meeting. It¡¯s nice to have another pair of hands to help. I have many things to do anyway. Thank you for sharing the burden with me.¡±


    Since she had said that, Josie¡¯s smile widened.Josie didn¡¯t understand Dexter¡¯s thoughts, but he must have had his intentions for doing such a thing. Moreover, it was good to train herself.


    Josie needed help, so she chose two trustworthy employees in the design department, Alice and Kevan. She considered thetter and felt she should give the young person a chance.


    ¡°Ms. Jo. you¡¯re already the head of the department at twenty-two years old. It¡¯s a big deal,¡± Kevan said with a smile while working.


    ¡°Twenty-two years old isn¡¯t young for a woman. More female college graduates are emerging, and I will be reced sooner orter, Josie replied with a bitter smile while working.


    ¡°How can that be? The experience thates with age is iparable.¡± Kevan was unconcerned. ¡°I like older women.¡±Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Are you going back for the holidays, Kevan?¡± Josie thought of his r¨¦sum¨¦ and the background investigation done on him. He wasn¡¯t local and didn¡¯t have a great family background. He hade from a rural area.


    Kevan was startled and quickly answered, ¡°Do I need to work overtime? I don¡¯t have to go home.¡±


    Alice snorted inughter. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Although working in Russell Group is stressful, thepany treats us well. We don¡¯t have to work during the holidays. Ms. Jo is just concerned about you.¡±


    Kevan scratched his head and nced at Josie shyly. She was moving swiftly and packing up. A gentle smile was in the corner of her mouth.


    ¡°I should be going home. My parents miss me.¡± He asked, ¡°Are you going home, Ms. Jo?¡±


    ¡°Of course. My family is here.


    He wanted to say something but stopped. After that, they left the office together. ¡°I heard that your father is in poor health, Ms. Jo. You can call me at any time if you need help.¡±


    Josie patted his head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Dexter saw this scene when they walked to the entrance of the office. The man beside Josie looked honest. She patted his head like she would a puppy.


    The signal lights of his car shed, and Alice immediately noticed it. ¡°Jo, isn¡¯t that Mr. Russell¡¯s car?¡±


    Josie looked over and immediately denied it. ¡°How would I know? I don¡¯t know. Who cares¡­¡±


    They parted at the intersection, and Josie walked to the bus stop. She only sneaked back secretly after. Alice and Kevan had left. She got into the car while no one was looking and looked like a thief.


    ¡°Why did you stop your car at the office entrance?¡± She patted her chest. Her heart was beating furiously.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes and saw how helpless she looked. ¡°Who was that man just now?¡±


    Josie was taken aback before she understood who he was referring to. She said, ¡°It¡¯s Kevan Quiring. He¡¯s newly employed and has just passed probation.¡±


    ¡°Do you grope new hires?¡± His voice was cold, and it terrified Josie.


    She took a sip of water and looked down. ¡°It was subconscious. I won¡¯t do it again.¡±


    The car drove, and Dexter answered emails on hisptop. He didn¡¯t say anything, and he still had a dark expression. He ignored her.


    Josie carefully went closer to him. He shut hisptop and met her gaze. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°Where are we going, Mr. Russell?¡± she asked boldly.

 Chapter 220

    Chapter 220 I Don¡¯t Like LiesExclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Guess.¡±


    Josie immediately looked at the road outside. It wasn¡¯t the way back to Mason Garden. She shut her eyes and guessed blindly. ¡°Heaven on Earth? You promised me not to go there anymore. Don¡¯t tell me you miss the big bosomed girls there? Are you breaking your promise? How can you be like this, Dexter? I really misjudged you¡­¡±


    ¡°Keep quiet. Dexter couldn¡¯t take it, and he interrupted her babbling.


    Josie choked. ¡°Then it must be Mandarin Oriental. Do you have a social engagement again? I won¡¯t save you this time unless you pay me double my sry. It¡¯s tiring to work.¡±


    She was talkative when she wanted to speak. Dexter smiled as he listened to her. He suddenly asked, ¡°Where were you a few nights ago?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart clenched. She had a bad premonition and feigned ignorance. ¡°I¡¯m with you every night.¡±


    ¡°The day of the ident on the construction site. When I went to the hospital.¡±


    Josie almost immediately felt suffocated in the stifling air. She never thought that Dexter had found out. How did he find out?


    ¡°I came home after meeting the design department. You know about it.¡±


    Josie already knew she was done for when she said it, but she couldn¡¯t think of a better way to hide it.


    Dexter liked to smoke when he was feeling jittery. He casually took out a pack of cigarettes and tore the stic on it. Dexter took out a cigarette and wasn¡¯t rushing to light it. He kept sniffing it and stared at her meaningfully.


    He didn¡¯t say anything, and Josie couldn¡¯t help but probe. ¡°Do you have a lighter? I brought one.¡±


    After that, she dug out a lighter from her bag. It had be a habit for her after lighting his cigarette a


    Xter turned his face to the side and avoided her. She few times. She lit the fire and approached him, but couldn¡¯t light his cigarette.


    The fire flickered before the man¡¯s face and reflected the ridge of his brow, making him seem determined and gant.


    Josie feared yet revered him.


    ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    He put his cigarette away and didn¡¯t light it. ¡°I don¡¯t like lies. Don¡¯t do this again.¡±


    He didn¡¯t say it explicitly, but he saw through what was on her mind. Her heart felt empty. She clear didn¡¯t do anything wrong, but it seemed like she was in the wrong. She felt grieved.


    She didn¡¯t say anything because she didn¡¯t know what to say. With how Dexter was acting, he must not have wanted to hear any exnations.


    Their destination was Mandarin Oriental.


    Dexter had a social engagement. This time, there were no big bosomed models. Only a few middle-aged men sat in seats of honor around the table. Food was served before them, one dish after another.


    One of them was Mr. Langman, the head of the Sylmark project. ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Dexter. I¡¯ve been waiting for a long time.¡±


    Dexter took off his coat and passed it to Josie. He said with a forced smile, ¡°Traffic was bad.¡±


    There were two tables in the private room, one with men and the other with women. It seemed like the women were the men¡¯s partners. They looked magnificent and extremely wealthy.


    Josie guessed that the social engagement wouldn¡¯t be too solemn.


    ¡°Go and greet the wives,¡± Dexter said to her in a low voice. The smile in the corners of his mouth was insincere.


    Josie hesitated momentarily and could only put on a bold face as she walked over. One of the women with a full figure quickly stood up and weed her. ¡°A few days ago, I heard that Dexter got married. I never thought it was true. You¡¯re beautiful, Mrs. Russell. I¡¯ve finally met you.¡±


    The women were ying with cards and had casino tokens by their side. They were sizing Josie up at that moment.


    ¡°Hello. Nice to meet you.¡± She forced a smile and seemed slightly out of ce.


    One of the women looked haughty. ¡°You can call me Mrs. Langman. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve seen you, Mrs. Russell. Are you an outsider?¡±


    Outsider¡­ Josie pondered the word in her heart. ¡°I guess. You can call me Josie.¡±

 Chapter 221

    Chapter 221


    Chapter 221 The Other Woman


    A womanughed, and her gaze was filled with contempt. She didn¡¯tment.


    Dexter talked to the men and mentioned the construction site. They should have been dealing with the


    aftermath of the Sylmark projects. After three rounds of drinks, a few men were slightly tipsy.


    Josie yed cards with the wives. She didn¡¯t know how to y and kept making mistakes. The women


    sneered at her when they saw her flustered. Josic took a deep breath and restrained her emotions.


    ¡°Alright, Mrs. Russell is a nice woman. Do you think she sits around and has nothing to do all day, just


    like you? Let¡¯s stop ying¡± Mrs. Langman smiled and came to Josie¡¯s rescue. She looked at Josie.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell us how you got together with Mr. Russell? We want to hear about it.¡±


    Josie opened her mouth and nced at Russell. He didn¡¯t intend toe to her rescue. He held a


    cigarette in his hands.


    At this time, someone interrupted softly. ¡°Isn¡¯t Mrs. Russell the other woman who was promoted? While


    the daughter of the Olsen family wasn¡¯t in the country, she shamelessly got married.¡±


    The air turned tense. Josie¡¯s face paled before her cheeks flushed. One of the men at the main table


    quickly smoothed things over. ¡°What do women know? Don¡¯t talk nonsense about things you know


    nothing about. Don¡¯t take it to heart, Mr. Russell.¡±


    When Josie looked at Dexter, he was puffing on his cigarette. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Only Josie was humiliated. She teared up and put down the cards she had held tightly to. ¡°I¡¯m not the


    other woman.¡±


    No one said anything momentarily after Josie was so direct. After a moment, another woman said, ¡°As


    long as your conscience is clear.¡±


    When Josie¡¯s tears fell, the private room door was opened, and a voice rang. ¡°Mrs. Camber, I heard


    your voice from far away. I¡¯ll get upset if you say such things.¡±


    It was Arnold. He was in a bright suit today and was still carefree as usual with a bright smile.


    ¡°Mr. Carter¡­¡±


    Josie was surprised. When she looked at Dexter again, he wasn¡¯t looking up. He was trying food on his


    te. It seemed nasty because he spat it out.


    ¡°Everyone in Wavery knows that I like Sum. If you say that Summer was with Dexter, I¡¯ll get upset,¡±


    Arnold. said openly as he sat down. He leaned one hand against the table and chair, and his gaze was


    directed only at Josie.


    Mrs. Camber thought of it and nodded at once. ¡°I apologize for my rudeness.¡±


    But Josie knew that while Arnold confessed his feelings for Summer, he silently proved that Josie


    wasn¡¯t the other woman.


    He was so thoughtful, but Josie didn¡¯t feel thankful. She felt more panicked.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter poured a ss of wine. ¡°You¡¯rete, Arnold. You must be punished.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m single, unlike everyone here. Let me go this time.¡± Arnold smiled nonchntly as he quietly turned


    it down.


    ¡°You must be kidding. You¡¯re so aplished, Mr. Carter. It would be easy for you to get married. If


    you can¡¯t find anyone, my wife likes to y matchmaker. She can introduce someone to you.¡±


    Someone interrupted with a smile.


    ¡°Any type of woman?¡±


    Yes.¡±


    ¡°Is there someone like Mrs. Russell?¡±


    The entire private room fell silent. Josie took a deep breath and wanted to murder the man.


    Dexter finally turned and nced at her. ¡°You seem to be particrly fond of my wife, Arnold. Summer


    might be sad if she learned you fell out of love with her.¡±


    ¡°I must put myself first.¡± Arnold smiled and raised his head to drink the wine. ¡°Dexter, would you give


    her up if I wanted her?¡±


    The room was quiet for a long time. Dexter kept quiet from the start until the end. No one understood


    what he was thinking about.


    Josie could no longer sit still. She found an excuse to go to the washroom. She turned on the sshed


    water on her face.


    This was the first time she was truly humiliated.

 Chapter 222

    Chapter 222


    Chapter 222 Humiliation


    Dexter treated her like the apple of his eye when he wanted to. When he didn¡¯t want to, he treated her


    like nothing and humiliated her repeatedly.


    His kindness toward her could quickly disappear in the blink of an eye.


    A figure appeared behind her. She saw a bright suit out of the corner of her eye. Josie held on to the


    sink and almost couldn¡¯t catch her breath. ¡°You¡¯re right. Dexter has no affection.¡±


    They could get along as if they had no boundaries, but he punished her like this today. Josie felt like


    her heart was being crumpled repeatedly. Resentment and disappointment festered within her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not Arnold.¡± It was an icy voice. She shuddered when she heard it. Her legs went weak, and she


    didn¡¯t dare to turn around.


    How can it be Dexter?


    Her coat hung from his hand, and his eyes were frosty. They were ice-cold. He put her coat on her


    gently as if nothing had happened.


    But Josie trembled uncontrobly,


    ¡°You get along well, don¡¯t you? He knows you so well that you can bare your feelings to him like this.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s icy lips were by her ears. He felt her uncontroble trembling.


    ¡°Dexter¡­¡± Josie was on the brink of a breakdown. Her voice shivered as well.


    ¡°Do you want to be with him?¡± He continued asking, but she didn¡¯t answer. He grabbed her face and


    forced her to look into the mirror.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were wet, and she was terrified. As the man grabbed her from behind, the veins on his


    hand protruded.


    ¡°Do you want to?!¡± He exerted more force..


    Josie¡¯s tears fell, and she shook her head furiously. ¡°No¡­ I don¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Know your ce, Josie Warren.¡± He made her look in the mirror. ¡°I gave you everything you have now,


    not Arnold. You belong to me. You must know your ce.¡±


    His voice was soft yet harsh. There was none of his sweet tenderness. It was as though he were a


    different. person. Josie felt that she didn¡¯t know him.


    ¡°Mm¡­.¡± Josie trembled as she blinked.


    Footsteps came from outside, and her heart lifted. ¡°Josie?¡±


    It was Arnold¡¯s voice.


    Josie and Dexter didn¡¯t move. Josie cried out at once, ¡°Don¡¯te in! I don¡¯t want to talk to you now!¡±


    The footsteps stopped at once.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to humiliate you just now. Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡± Arnold sounded slightly regretful.


    Dexter held Josie down from the start to the end. It was as though a poisonous snake was slithering on


    her body. He spoke into her ear. ¡°Do you want to be seen?¡±


    She shivered violently. ¡°I don¡¯t care. Don¡¯te here. I don¡¯t want to see you.¡±


    She wanted Arnold to leave at once!


    He seemed to sense something wrong with her voice. After a moment, he said, ¡°Take care. His


    footsteps sounded further away after that.


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief. She almost fell to the floor, paralyzed.


    Dexter finally let her go. He turned around ruthlessly and left her as she slowly fell to the floor weakly.


    Josie didn¡¯t return to Mason Garden that night. She felt defeated and stayed in a nearby hotel. She


    couldn¡¯t sleep the whole night.


    She finally understood. If she had feelings for Dexter, she would be in eternal misery. Did affection


    mean anything to him?


    They weren¡¯t important to him. Or perhaps, he had no affection for Josie. Maybe her feelings hadn¡¯t


    been reciprocated.


    Russell Group¡¯s annual meeting was held at one of the hotels under the corporation¡¯s banner. On that


    day, the hotel wasn¡¯t open for business. They started preparing from morning until evening, making the


    venue look luxurious and elegant. Everyone who saw it gasped in admiration.


    It was December thirty-first, which was New Year¡¯s Eve. People were bustling around on the streets.


    Those who passed the hotel were astonished by how much Russell Group had spent.

 Chapter 223

    Chapter 223


    Chapter 223 Annual Meeting


    When Dexter entered the venue, Josie was giving out roses to others. Everyone received one.


    She didn¡¯t raise her head from the start until the end and looked haggard.


    Every Russell Group annual meeting when Dexter was in office would always make waves in the


    business world yearly. This was when Russell Group employees felt the happiest.


    At this time, Josie understood why Dexter wanted her to be involved in the annual meeting. Amid all the


    bustle, she hade into contact with all the key personnel of Russell Group. Even if she couldn¡¯t


    remember exactly what everyone was in charge of, she had a rough idea.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if Dexter really wanted such a result, Josie didn¡¯t think of anything else. She seized the


    opportunity firmly and treated everyone politely. She was earnest and responsible, so she wouldn¡¯t


    leave others with a bad impression.


    Her work ethic left a good impression on many people.


    Dexter walked in dressed formally when he entered. He saw Alice dump roses into Josie¡¯sp. The


    thorns had been removed. Josie was annoyed and amused. She looked up to see the tall man.


    Josie was slightly surprised. She pursed her lips and didn¡¯t dare believe he had walked over.


    Alice was taken aback, and she stepped back. ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter was in a ck suit tonight, looking highly solemn and indifferent.


    Josie reacted quickly. She bowed slightly and gave him a rose. Mr. Russell.¡±


    Her voice didn¡¯t fluctuate.


    He took the flower from her and walked into the venue. From where she was, she saw him give his


    rose to an elderly woman. The woman must have held an essential role in the past and still attended


    the annual meeting in her old age.


    The dinner banquet was sumptuous, a fusion of North meets South. It suited most of the attendees¡±


    tastebuds. Josie had put a lot of thought into it. Thankfully, it was well received.


    Before the dinner banquet started, Dexter went on stage to give a speech. Instead of the script Ivy had


    prepared for him, he said a few words and warm apuse rang offstage. Josie stood in the corner and


    looked up at the dazzling man. She had no expression on her face.


    At this time, the host bravely asked a few questions. Thest question was, ¡°Mr. Russell, since this is


    an annual asion, can you fulfill our female employees¡¯ hope of sharing a dance with you this year?¡±


    Dexter smiled indifferently and didn¡¯t answer. He raised his winess. ¡°Please enjoy yourself.¡±


    After that, Josie didn¡¯t see him around. He was buried in the crowd. She couldn¡¯t locate him even if she


    wanted to.


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    She walked around the venue. The banquet took up the entire eighteenth floor. Besides Russell Group


    employees, big shots from other industries were also present. Josie went up to help if she saw anyone


    in


    need.


    Her colleague called and told her she could stop, so Josie walked to the area Alice was responsible for.


    When Josie turned, she saw a familiar figure.


    It was Jesse!


    She wore a long, bareback dress, and her makeup was exquisite. She looked straight at Josie. Her


    target was clear. It seemed as though she had followed Josie..


    Josie raised her brows in surprise.


    Jesse approached Josie one step at a time, and a sneer appeared on Jesse¡¯s face. ¡°Nice to meet you,


    Mrs.


    Russell.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean.¡± Josie narrowed her eyes slightly.


    Jesse took out a pack of cigarettes. She lit one and put it between her lips before leaning against the


    wall and puffing on it. She looked up at Josie. ¡°Don¡¯t be in a rush to refute. Since I¡¯ve said it, it means I


    already know.¡±


    She used to be a celebrity and had some resources. Now that the news of Dexter being married spread


    in the upper social circle, it was only natural for her to learn of it if she wanted to.

 Chapter 224

    Chapter 224


    Chapter 224 Looking at Him


    Josie kept quiet. She didn¡¯t want such a role.


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Jesse sized up the woman before her, who was as quiet as a mouse, and felt that Josie was quite


    elegant. As a woman herself. Jesse didn¡¯t feel like a failure after losing to someone like Josie. Jesse


    was just jealous of Josic.


    After finishing a cigarette, Jesse furrowed her brows. ¡°You¡¯re so calm. Aren¡¯t you afraid that I will reveal


    it to the media?¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because it would be beneficial to me.¡±


    Josie was right. Jesse stared at her. ¡°What if I deliberately defame you?¡±


    ¡°Dexter won¡¯t let you do such a thing.¡±


    ¡°Heh. You have no fear.


    Jesse walked past her and said, ¡°I don¡¯t dare touch you, but I¡¯m waiting for your fall from grace.¡±


    Josie smiled faintly. She reached out to adjust her fringe and didn¡¯t answer Jesse.


    Laura was also present at this year¡¯s annual meeting. Her elders had personally brought her along.


    She didn¡¯t have a great family background. Everyone was astonished when they saw her at the annual


    meeting. Their emotions were unclear.


    As Dexter walked around, Laura stuck to him incessantly. She sat at one side and waited patiently


    while he spoke to others. Those who didn¡¯t know her thought that she had feelings for him, but those


    who did. know that she was like a younger sister to Dexter. The Russell family wouldn¡¯t ept an


    illegitimate daughter.


    Dexter was a gracious host, and he didn¡¯t express his annoyance. He couldn¡¯t help but remind her


    softly. ¡°Laura, you¡¯re a guest today. I¡¯ll entertain you next time. I can¡¯t attend to you simultaneously on


    such an


    asion.¡±


    Lauraughed coyly when she saw that he initiated a conversation with her, ¡°I saw that woman just


    now, and I felt annoyed. I don¡¯t want you to be with her on such an asion. Do you understand, Mr.


    Russell?¡±


    Dexter raised his eyes and looked for Josie. She wasn¡¯t around.


    ¡°I won¡¯t do such a thing. The two hadn¡¯t spoken for a few days since that day. They returned to Mason


    Garden separately.


    ¡°Really? You¡¯re still rational, Mr. Russell. I thought you would be impulsive and publicly announce your


    marriage. You announced it at the celebration dinnerst time. The whole world will know if you


    announce it at the annual meeting this time.¡± Laura taunted.


    ¡°If you continue talking, you will be embarrassed.¡± Dexter retorted calmly.


    Laura felt anxious and grieved. ¡°I still don¡¯t understand. Why? Why isn¡¯t it Summer? How is she inferior


    to that woman? Must you degrade yourself like this?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was grim. He took a ss of wine from a waiter and handed it to her. ¡°Are you


    sure you want to continue?¡±


    Laura froze. She didn¡¯t dare to provoke this man further. ¡°In any case, I¡¯m going to stay with you


    tonight. I want to keep watch over you for Summer¡¯s sake.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t take to heart her immature actions. He put the winess down. Before he left, he said,


    ¡°Take care of yourself instead.¡±


    It was a busy day. Josie had been upied the whole day and finally had time to rest. She found a


    quiet porch and enjoyed the chilly breeze.


    She felt much more clear-headed. She held a bottle of wine and drank from it repeatedly without


    looking at the lively scene behind her. She felt like there was a void in her heart that couldn¡¯t heal no


    matter what.Josie.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know when Ivy had appeared behind her. She turned, and a cold breeze swept her hair.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Aren¡¯t you busy enough, Ms. Miller?¡± Josie¡¯s voice was slightly sarcastic.


    ¡°Get a divorce with Mr. Russell. He will agree if you insist,¡± Ivy said solemnly. ¡°I know you have troubles


    at home. I can help you, but you must divorce him.¡±

 Chapter 225

    Chapter 225


    Chapter 225 Yanis Russell


    Josieughed when she heard it. ¡°Why are you confident that I will agree?¡±


    Ivy had socialized with others for years and was always calm when she spoke. ¡°I know about what


    happened at Mandarin Oriental. I believe you know that the wife Dexter needs isn¡¯t someone like you.


    Arnold is nice to you. He can support you instead.¡±


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Josie crossed her arms and took a deep breath. ¡°It seems like you¡¯ve done your research on me, Ms.


    Miller. You even know about Arnold. If he knew about it, he would ask Dexter for you.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s voice was intertwined with rage. She sneered. ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to get a divorce?¡±


    Josie wanted tough. Why does everyone think that I can decide?


    ¡°Look for Dexter. I will divorce him if he agrees. But if he doesn¡¯t, don¡¯te and probe me again.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care and wasn¡¯t willing to speak further.


    She wanted to get a divorce, but she couldn¡¯t. Even when she considered other aspects, she had to


    prioritize herself. She couldn¡¯tpromise because of others¡¯ opinions.


    And she knew that Dexter had no ns to divorce her for now.


    Ivy understood where Josie stood and stopped asking further. She was about to turn and leave.


    Josie called after her at this time. Ms. Miller, I don¡¯t know how Jesse got in. I advise you to deal with it


    for Russell Group¡¯s reputation.¡±


    Ivy was slightly startled. Josie didn¡¯t know if she was surprised. Ivy stood there for a while before


    leaving.


    The night breeze was gentle yet lonely. It swept Josie¡¯s long hair, and she sighed silently,


    Many high-level executives from Russell Group came for this year¡¯s annual meeting, including board.


    members from the board of directors. Some were old, looking dignified and wealthy. Employees were


    cautious about going up and talking to them.


    ¡°Dexter, I¡¯ve seen this year¡¯s financial report for Russell Group. Honestly, I have lingering fear about


    your n to acquire Landon. The Russell Group might have crumbled if the Ardon family hadn¡¯t gotten


    into trouble. It was too risky.¡±


    A few board members sat together in a particr private room and were having some drinks. It had a


    great view. Dexter sat at the end with a faint smile. He was silent.


    ¡°But something happened to the Ardon family, didn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°What if something had happened to Russell Group instead?¡± The man at the seat of honor was the


    previous person in charge of Russell Group. He was the eldest of his generation, and his name was


    Yanis Russell. He was almost sixty but took good care of himself and looked imposing.


    ¡°Uncle Yanis, I can guarantee that Russell Group¡¯s business domain will expand endlessly for the next


    three years after acquiring Landon. It¡¯s too early to feel disheartened now.¡±


    Dexter poured a drink for himself. It was dark. He took a sip and put his ss down.


    ¡°Hmph¡­ Three years. Don¡¯t me me for not warning you. Your grandfather is in poor health. Don¡¯t let


    him witness the fall of Russell Group in his remaining years. If that happens, it¡¯s basically


    manughter.¡± Yanis taunted him.


    Dexter had a sneer in the corners of his mouth when he heard it. ¡°It seems you¡¯re not satisfied with the


    dividends this year, Uncle Yanis. If you¡¯re really worried about Grandpa, why haven¡¯t you ever visited


    him?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Someone smoothed things over when they sensed the increasingly hostile atmosphere. ¡°Alright, we¡¯re


    at family. Why are you acting like we¡¯re on different sides? I believe in Dexter¡¯s ability. Most of this


    year¡¯s revenue has been pretty good. But of course, it would have been better if we didn¡¯t need to fill


    the gap. made by Landon.¡±


    Dexter did not utter a word. He held his ss. The faint noise outside slowly seeped in.


    At this time, someone knocked at the door. It was Ivy. She looked at Dexter slightly anxiously and didn¡¯t


    dare to rush into action.

 Chapter 226

    Chapter 226


    Chapter 226 Meeting the Rascal Again


    Dexter put down the cup. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Ivy went to Dexter and leaned close to whisper something into his ear. However, he stopped her and


    said, ¡°We¡¯re all family. Whatever you want to tell me, my uncles can hear it too.¡±


    ¡°Jesse sneaked in. How should we deal with her?¡±


    That¡¯s easy.


    Dexter looked at Ivy meaningfully. She instinctively turned away.


    Many people were gathered in Russell Group that day. It was inevitable that unwanted guests would


    find ways to sneak in.


    Bleu Mullins finally escaped his father and rushed out of his house furiously. He wanted to see for


    himself how wealthy Russell Group was.


    His surname was Mullins, the same surname as the deputy director of the state police department.


    That meant he came from the Mullins family. Dexter secretly took action against them, putting them on


    the verge of copse.


    In other words, Bleu was the rascal who insulted and raised his hand against Josie after the car id


    After that ident, the Mullins family was investigated, resulting in Bleu¡¯s father¡¯s demotion and


    suspension from duties. His father might have to go to prison if not for his grandfather¡¯s prominent


    influence.


    Although Bleu was not punished, he had a terrible reputation throughout the Web. Moreover, his friends


    avoided him ever since his family¡¯s downfall. Everyone knew he offended Dexter.


    Bleu only found out afterward that Dexter was the man who came to help Josie.


    Today, Bleu snuck in using the invitation his father pulled all strings to get. His father wanted a chance


    to apologize to Dexter and request mercy toward the Mullins family.


    However, Bleu disagreed with his father¡¯s n. I heard rumors that Dexter is married. The woman from


    that day is probably his lover. She looked unremarkable. There¡¯s no way a woman like that can marry


    into the Russell family.


    So, why would Dexter bother to disturb my family for that woman?


    As he thought about this, he suddenly noticed a woman seated on the steps and smirked.


    ¡°Gorgeous, are you alone?¡± Josie suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder, prompting her to frown. The


    voice continued before she could turn around, ¡°Can I have your number?¡±


    Bleu was an infamous yboy in his social circle. Previously, his family was wealthy and influential, so


    the women he approached were eager to please him.


    He still had not given up his phndering habits, even in his family¡¯s dire situation.


    Meeting the Rascal Again


    However, he was stunned when Josie turned around. He did not expect to see her again.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What the heck?¡± Bleu jumped and widened his eyes in shock. Then, he hissed and cursed, ¡°You witch!


    Why are you here? What a pest.¡±


    Josie was bewildered to be cursed out of the blue. She looked at Bleu¡¯s face under the dim light and


    sneered upon recognizing him. Why are all the enemiesing here tonight?


    That should be my question. You have better leave before I call security.¡±


    She was furious as she recalled her humiliation that day.


    Bleu spat on the floor. He, too, was furious, especially when he recalled what his family had gone


    through recently. It filled him with the urge to bash the woman before him.


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me to leave?¡± He smirked and kept moving closer. Josie retreated and replied sternly,


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare touch me.¡±


    Bleu snorted, grabbed her chin, and taunted. ¡°I¡¯m touching you. What are you going to do about it?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and call Dexter toe here. Let¡¯s see if he cares. I highly doubt he would. He¡¯s already


    married, and you¡¯re only an unwanted toy to him. How does it feel to be abandoned?¡±


    His presence made Josie nauseous. She ran out of space to retreat and tried to push him off her. ¡°Go


    away!¡±

 Chapter 227

    Chapter 227


    Chapter 227 She Saved Her


    Bleu was stronger and restrained her easily. He even took the chance to grope her and leered at her


    full breasts. Then, heughed menacingly and picked up her work ID. ¡°Oh, you work in Russell Group. I


    guess you slept your way in.¡±


    Josie breathed heavily and struggled hard before finally breaking free of his restraint. She pped Bleu


    hard, causing his head to turn sideways. However, he quickly covered her mouth before she could call


    for help and hit her.


    ¡°How dare you p me? Do you wish to die?¡±


    Josie faced a simr threat and humiliation when she tried to rescue Justin in Heaven on Earth.


    Therefore, her instincts kicked in, fueling her will to survive. She reached for the phone in her pocket,


    but Bleu caught her. He snatched the phone and threw it into the nearby swimming pool.


    It was cold outside, so no one came out. Moreover, the ss on the floor-to-ceiling windows was made.


    such that people could see the interior from the outside, but those inside could not see what was


    outside.


    Josie could see the crowd chatting happily in the hall, but no one noticed her situation.


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    They were so near, yet no one came to help her.


    It filled her with despair.


    Bleu also realized this and took off his jacket, grinning maliciously. He covered Josie¡¯s mouth even as


    he tears fell on his hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother pretending to be chaste. I¡¯ve seen too many women like you. Women like you act pure


    but


    are wanton in bed.¡±


    Bleu noticed she had quite an alluring figure and began touching her. ¡°We don¡¯t even need to get to


    bed. We can make love here. Isn¡¯t it exciting?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes burned with hatred. She kept kicking her legs and struggled with all her might, but he


    easily


    restrained her with his knees. Despair filled her heart. Her cries for help were muffled by the hand on


    her mouth. She had never wanted Dexter to appear as much as she did at that moment.


    Bleu was at the end of his rope. He was desperate enough to do anything.


    Where could Dexter be?


    Laura was the first to notice something was off. She looked for Josie but could not find her anywhere.


    In the end, she grabbed someone and asked, ¡°Where is Ms. Warren from the design department?¡±


    Alice was enjoying herself at the party. She nced at the window but could not see anything. ¡°I think


    she¡¯s still outside. She dislikes crowded ces.¡±


    Laura frowned and walked in the direction Alice pointed. ¡°I¡¯ll go look for her.¡±


    Laura ran outside in time to find Josie restrained against the wall by a man against her will. The man


    had pulled her evening gown below her shoulders. Revealing arge expanse of her fair skin.


    She Saved Her


    Moreover, Josie¡¯s eyes were filled with despair.


    Laura did not have time to think. She covered her mouth in disbelief before screaming, ¡°Help! A woman


    is being assaulted!¡±


    Her voice alerted many people in the hall. The musicians immediately stopped the music.


    Meanwhile. Bleu realized he had been discovered and red at Josie as he cursed. He panicked and


    grabbed Josie as he approached Laura. Laura immediately jumped into self-defense mode and gabbed


    a wine bottle before smashing it on his shoulder.


    Bleu hissed in pain and had no choice but to release Josie.


    Josie was finally freed from the suffocating feeling. She fell to the floor and felt fresh air rushing into her


    lungs. She hugged herself and could not help but heave like a fish out of water.


    ¡°How dare you hit me?¡± Bleu touched his shoulder and found blood. His gaze turned murderous. He


    reached out and snatched the wine bottle from Laura. Being a woman, Laura¡¯s strength was no match


    for his. She found herself being pushed backward.


    People in the hall rushed out at this moment. Dexter had just left the private lounge when he heard


    Laura¡¯s scream. He furrowed her brow and had a bad feeling. Thus, he grabbed his coat and ordered


    Ivy as he ran, ¡°Find out where Josie is right now.¡±

 Chapter 228

    Chapter 228


    Chapter 228 Fury


    Ivy ran urgently but could not keep up with Dexter.


    Dexter arrived at the scene and saw Bleu shove the struggling Laura as he escaped, causing her to fall


    into the swimming pool.


    A big ssh followed, and screams sounded from the spectators.


    Dexter speedily weighed the pros and cons before tossing his jacket aside and leaped into the waters.


    The spectators screamed again.


    Thankfully, the swimming pool was shallow. However, the water was cold. Laura choked on the water


    briefly before Dexter reached her and pulled her into his embrace. ¡°Laura! Laura!¡±


    Laura was entirely drenched when he brought her out of the pool. Her condition was concerning. But


    when Dexter was about to rush her to the hospital, Laura tugged his shirt sleeve and said barely


    audibly, ¡°There¡¯s another person¡­¡±


    The spectators could not hear Laura¡¯s words but saw Dexter¡¯s expression change drastically. He


    looked so furious that it seemed he would obliterate anyone in his way.


    Dexter realized something and walked stiffly past the trapped Bleu. Then, he saw Josie lying lifelessly


    the ground in a ragged dress.


    ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    Dexter trembled slightly and coldly ordered a staff, ¡°Bring Ms. Brandel to the hospital.¡±


    Then, he picked up his coat and went to Josie. If one were to look closely, one would notice him


    staggering as he walked and see the anguish in his eyes. He covered her with his coat and touched


    her skin, only to find it cool.


    Josie knew it was Dexter and instinctively rested her head against his chest, trying to hide from the


    watching crowd. Her expression froze in despair.


    Dexter caressed her and called out to her.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. Everything¡¯s all right now.¡±


    On the other hand, Bled looked at the scene in disbelief and was on the verge of a mental breakdown.


    That¡¯s impossible! No way! Why is Dexter treating Josie like this? At the same time, he knew he had


    gotten himself into trouble, and his life would be ruined.


    Dexter red at Bleu. His gaze was cruel and filled with hatred.


    The crowd saw how gently he handled Josie, like carrying a precious and fragile vase. Everyone could


    feel his concern for Josie. He feared the incident would irrevocably break her.


    Dexter said softly, ¡°Apart from touching you, what else did he do?¡±


    them on Bleu like a venomous snake waiting to strike. She saw the fear on his face.


    His fear means nothing to me. How could he think I would let him go after all he did?


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    ¡°He said.¡± Josie¡¯s voice was soft, but the surrounding was so quiet that everyone could hear her words.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother pretending to be chaste. I¡¯ve seen too many women like you. Women like you act pure


    but are wanton in bed.¡±


    The women in the crowd all red at Bleu. His lips twitched, and his face turned pale from the


    difort of their animosity.


    Dexter lifted Josie from the ground and seated herfortably before slowly undid his cuff buttons.


    Later, the crowd would recall that he looked like a ferocious beast about to attack its prey.


    ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°You work in Russell Group. I guess you wh red your way in.¡±


    At this point, the women were not the only ones ring at Bleu. Many male Russell Group employees.


    looked at him with fury.


    Josie continued, ¡°He¡¯s already married, and you¡¯re only an unwanted toy to him. How does it feel to be


    abandoned?¡±


    Those words were shocking, leaving the crowd aghast.


    While some people were still puzzled over those words, Dexter dashed forward, grabbed Bleu by his


    shirt. cor, and punched him hard.

 Chapter 229

    Chapter 229


    Chapter 229 Merciless Beating


    Bleu spurted blood from his mouth.


    ¡°How dare you call her a wh*re?¡±


    ¡°She is not an unwanted toy!¡±


    ¡°How dare you call her wanton?¡±


    Dexter punched him without mercy,nding punches on Bleu¡¯s face and head.


    The crowd had never seen Dexter behaving so violently.


    It seemed he was determined to kill Bleu.


    Yet, his movements were clean and sharp. It was mesmerizing to watch.


    Bleu had no chance to fight back.


    Meanwhile, Bleu¡¯s father rushed over upon hearing the noise and saw Dexter punching his son from


    among the crowd. His expression nched, and his legs nearly gave way. What was Bleu thinking?


    Doesn¡¯t he know what Dexter is like?


    However, he did not dare toe forward to help his son.


    Dexter released the anger he had umted for years and stepped away when Bleu was bloody


    beyond recognition. Bleu slumped on the floor, afraid that Dexter would punch him again. Thus, he


    latched onto the hem of Dexter¡¯s trousers and pleaded pitifully, ¡°I was wrong. Mr. Russel. I¡¯m sorry. I


    won¡¯t dare to do it again¡­


    It was a pathetic sight.


    Bleu had lost all trace of the arrogance from before.


    Bleu¡¯s father looked away from the scene. Although he was unsure of Dexter¡¯s rtionship with Josie,


    he saw how Dexter defended her without hesitation and knew Bleu had doomed the Mullins family.


    Meanwhile, Ivy finally arrived at the scene and was briefly stunned to her spot. She did not expect


    Dexter to beat up someone in public for Josie,


    He¡¯s insane!


    ¡°Ivy.¡± Dexter still looked threatening even after he stopped punching Bleu.


    ¡°Contact the doctor immediately and tell him to wait for me.¡±


    The crowd was in shock. No one expected Dexter to fly into a rage over a woman.


    Still, the crowd thought it was understandable that he was furious. After all, Josie was not only an


    employee of Russell Group but also the design department head. Therefore, it was natural for


    someone to


    forward to protect her after what she had gone through.


    step


    However, there were so many people on the scene. Why did Dexter personally step out to defend her?


    Meanwhile, a few gray-haired elderly men stood at the crowd¡¯s periphery and exchanged nces.


    There were fear and confusion in their eyes. Yet, they were excited to see Dexter losing his usual


    composure.


    They knew they must not underestimate Josie¡¯s importance to Dexter.


    Dexter ignored the crowd and focused all his attention on Josie. He bent down and carried her securely


    in his arms before leaving. The crowd heard him speaking gently to Josie as he walked past them.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, and don¡¯t worry about anything. I will bring you home.¡±


    We are going home.


    It was New Year¡¯s Eve. A time when the whole nation celebrates and counts down to usher in the


    brand


    new year.


    Apart from the incident near the swimming pool, people in the rest of the building were partying, utterly


    unaware of what had happened.


    Jesse went from one man to another, trying to get them to help her with her cause. Suddenly, a few


    burly bodyguards showed up and dragged her away, throwing her out of Russell Group. ¡°Leave, or we


    will call the police!¡±


    Her dream to be an actress was crushed at that moment.


    Meanwhile, Ivy stayed behind to deal with the aftermath of Bleu¡¯s rash behavior.


    Bleu¡¯s father was on the verge of kneeling to beg for mercy, but Ivy grabbed a ss of wine and


    smashed it on the floor to vent her fury. ¡°Your son has done something unforgivable. There¡¯s no use


    pleading with


    me!¡±


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    His legs gave way.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    A loud noise came from ahead, prompting Dexter to stop the car immediately.


    The movement jostled Josie, who was dozing off in the front passenger seat. Her face was as pale as a


    sheet.


    The bodyguard in the car before them got out to check the situation. He soon returned and reported to


    Dexter, ¡°There¡¯s a car ident ahead. The police are on their way.¡±


    Dexter silently indicated to the bodyguard to leave.


    Then, he turned on the car¡¯s interior light and checked on Josie. He asked gently, ¡°Are you all right?¡±

 Chapter 230

    Chapter 230


    Chapter 230 Leaked Information


    Josie¡¯s eyelids throbbed. She felt a persistent panic and wondered if it was because she was nearly


    assaulted.


    She let Dexterfort her before leaning into his embrace. She still could not speak. However, she


    sensed Dexter¡¯s patience running thin during the prolonged silence and said, ¡°The hotelyout has to


    be changed¡±


    She was traumatized by the feeling of istion and helplessness.


    What¡­ What would happen to me if Laura didn¡¯te out? What if she decided not to help me? What


    would happen


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    to me then?


    Dexter also felt a lingering fear over what had happened. His expression turned stern as he answered,


    ¡°Yes, it has to be changed.¡±


    The ceneeds more thanminor changes. It requires extensive remodeling.


    Therefore, the most exclusive hotel in Wavery underwent a significant renovation for the next two


    months. Rumors said Dexter spent tens of millions on this and would only allow the renovation to stop


    once he was satisfied with the result. Meanwhile, Bleu¡¯s family faced catastrophe. Initially, Dexter


    showed some mercy and did not force their destruction. However, after that incident¡­


    The family suffered a bloody end.


    Of course, all these happened muchter.


    In the present, Dexter realized the road ahead would take a long time to clear. Thus, he decided to turn


    the car around and bring Josie to his other house in Wavery.


    He rarely stayed here, and there were no servants. It was quiet and peaceful.


    Dexter carried Josie across the yard. Josie looked up from his embrace and saw twomps on the


    porch.


    They seemed to guide them home.


    Dexter patted her shoulder and ced her on the bed in the master bedroom. This was a single-story


    vi, and the outside of the bedroom was nted with greenery, filling the window with lush scenery.


    There was also a pond outside where water dripped from the eaves, producing clear and melodious


    sounds.


    Since Dexter rarely came to the house, he forgot where many things were ced. He got up to find all


    the necessities while Josiey in bed and watched him searching around busily.


    Her emotions were a mess.


    past few


    Dexter was now gentle and caring as she remembered. However, he was so cold and cruel the days


    that he was apletely different person. She could not understand how someone could have such


    contrasting behaviors.


    Her heart ached as she thought about it.

 Chapter 231

    Chapter 231


    Chapter 231 I Never Told Him


    Ivy said, ¡°Yes, all the workers at the construction site had signed the confidential agreements. The


    hospital is strict with patient information. How did the media find out about it?¡±


    Dexter walked out of the study and saw that rain was hammering down. He ordered sternly,


    ¡°Investigate all the workers involved.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already investigated them before you answered my call. There¡¯s nothing wrong with them. Mr.


    Russell¡­ Please forgive me for asking. Did you tell anyone about this matter?¡± Ivy asked tentatively.


    Dexter looked at Josie¡¯s tightly shut door and could not hear any noise from the room. All he heard was


    the sttering sound of rain.


    ¡°It¡¯s not her.¡±


    Ivy could not help raising her voice. This matter is severe. Reporters are now blocking Russell Group¡¯s


    entrance. It will be detrimental to thepany¡¯s reputation unless we find the source of the leak.


    Dexter closed his eyes briefly.


    ¡°Wait for a while, Dexter said and hung up.


    He pushed open the door and saw Josie sitting before the window with a dazed expression. One could


    only wonder what she thought as she looked at the heavy rain. It was cold, but she only wore a thin


    sleeping gown. The sight of her like this broke his heart.


    She did not turn around even as she heard noises. She seemed as if she had lost all hope.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go to thepany today. You should stay here and rest, Dexter said, holding the doorknob. His


    face was devoid of emotion.


    Josie remained silent. However, she suddenly spoke as he turned around to leave. ¡°I want to see


    Laura.


    Despite their conflicts, Josie felt she should thank Laura for saving her life.


    Dexter replied without turning around, ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to message you the hospital she is staying in.¡±


    Silence followed.


    Dexter walked a few steps before pausing. ¡°You were with Arnold on the night of the construction


    ident. Did you tell him about the ident?¡±


    Josie finally showed some reaction. She looked at him nkly and answered, ¡°I never told him.¡±


    Hearing her answer, Dexter did not ask any more questions but left the vi. He started his car and


    drove


    away.


    Josie remained dazed for some time before getting up. She washed up and turned on her phone to find


    the message about Laura¡¯s hospital. It was the one her father stayed in.


    Then, she called a taxi and went to the shop before the hospital to get some fruit. The TV at the shop


    showed the news. Many reporters crowded around Dexter and pointed their microphones at him, but


    he


    remained calm despite the chaos.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, your project in Sylmark recently suffered a case of casualty. Was it due to Russell Group¡¯s


    negligence?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, can you exin what caused the ident?¡±


    Dexter appeared calm as he faced the camera. ¡°We are cooperating with the police investigation to


    find. out the cause of the ident. Meanwhile, we have properlypensated the victim¡¯s family. At


    the moment, there is no indication that Russell Group has been negligent in this project. We will share


    the findings with the public once the investigation is concluded.¡±


    ¡°Please be patient.¡±


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Dexter left after saying that. His bodyguards immediately blocked the reporters from getting close to


    him.


    ¡°Miss, why are you standing there? Are you going to take it or not?¡± The shopkeeper handed Josie a


    bag of fruits.


    Josie finally came to her senses.


    Laura caught a cold after tripping into the pool and suffered shock from the incident. Therefore, the


    doctor rmended that she stay in the hospital for observations. As a wealthydy, Laura received


    top- notch service in the VIP ward. She spent her time ying video games and had steaks for her


    meals.


    Matthew stopped Josie and asked, ¡°Are you her friend?¡±


    Josie was confused by his question. ¡°Is¡­ Is she a difficult patient?¡±


    Matthew nodded. ¡°I heard from the nurses that she chased out anyone who came to see her. She even


    threw the things her visitors brought out of the window and hurt a passerby. Luckily, the injury was


    minor. Shepensated them twenty thousand without any concern.¡±

 Chapter 232

    Chapter 232


    Chapter 232 Indebted to Her


    Josie rolled her eyes. That¡¯s indeed the Laura I know¡­


    However, she did not want Matthew to worry. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯m only meeting her for a while.¡±


    Laura was engrossed in ying a game on her phone and moved her body as she controlled her


    game. avatar. She did not notice Josieing in. Seeing her in the middle of a game, Josie sat at the


    side and waited for her to finish her round.


    Laura suddenly looked up and noticed Josie. She widened her eyes and shouted fiercely, ¡°Why are


    you. here!¡±


    Josie appeared amicable. ¡°I came here to see you, and thank you for saving me yesterday.¡±


    Her words infuriated Laura, causing her expression to darken further. ¡°Get out.¡±


    However, Josie stayed in her seat. ¡°I know you despise me, but I still want to thank you for saving me. I


    don¡¯t dare to think what would happen if you didn¡¯t show up.¡±,


    Those words further aggravated Laura¡¯s inood. She threw her phone onto her bed and replied furiously,


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your fake gratitude. Get out of my sight before I call my bodyguards.¡±


    ¡°Your bodyguards aren¡¯t at the door. I wouldn¡¯t have been able toe in if they were there,¡± Josie


    responded calmly.


    Laura finally realized her bodyguards had left without her realizing. It made her even more anxious. I¡¯ve


    said clearly enough. I don¡¯t need your fake gratitude, and I despise you. I would have helped anyone in


    that situation. So, leave and stop making me feel nauscous,¡±


    Laura looked pretty even when she was furious. Josie was used to her arrogance and was not


    bothered by the hatred on Laura¡¯s face.


    ¡°That means you¡¯re a good person. It¡¯s hard to find a kind and wealthydy these days.¡±


    Josie was like a saint. No words could provoke her.


    Her unaffectedness infuriated Laura so much that she was on the verge of losing her mind. She felt an


    intense urge to strangle Josie. ¡°Why would I want to be kind to you? Stop pretending to be nice to me. I


    saved you, but that doesn¡¯t mean I ept you as Dexter¡¯s wife. You should know your ce.¡±


    However, Josie pretended not to hear her and helped herself to the fruits in the basket. ¡°Do you want a


    banana?¡±


    Laura gave up entirely and sat slumped on the bed. ¡°You disgust me. Get out.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie slowly peeled a banana and said, ¡°Ms. Brandel, I won¡¯t forget your kindness. Let me know if you


    need help, and I will try my best to assist you.¡±


    Then, she ced the banana on the table and continued. ¡°You might think my promise is not worth


    much. Still, you can give me a chance when your situation requires it.¡± Josie blinked and added, ¡°Of


    course, my offer doesn¡¯t include divorcing Dexter.¡±


    Josie left and closed the door. In her fury, Laura threw a pillow at the door and yelled. ¡°I should never


    have saved you!¡±


    Laura was an illegitimate daughter. Her father brought her and her mother to Brandel Residence shortly


    after his wife died. Laura was already ten years old then. Everyone in Wavery knew she was born out


    of wedlock.


    Josie investigated Laura before going to see her.


    She believed Laura likely did not have it easy with such a background. Therefore, Josie considered and


    decided to promise her a favor. She thought she would soon be able to repay Laura for saving her.


    Josie was in a rush and did not go to visit her father. She hailed a taxi and headed to Carter Group.


    The receptionist made her wait in the lobby. Josie pulled out her phone and called Arnold straight away.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Arnold was surprised but was happy to hear her voice. ¡°Why? I heard Russell Group¡¯s party was a


    sess. Are you interested in organizing one for Carter Group?¡±


    Josie controlled her anger. ¡°Where are you?¡±


    Arnold paused briefly before answering. ¡°I¡¯m in the gym on the Carter Group¡¯s thirtieth floor.¡±¡°


    Josie headed there straightaway. None of the staff tried to stop her again.

 Chapter 233

    Chapter 233


    Chapter 233 It Wasn¡¯t Him


    The gym was empty. Josie instantly found Arnold running on a treadmill as he was at a very eye-


    catching spot. He was shirtless, revealing his firm muscles and athletic figure for all to see.


    Josic took a deep breath and went to him, pressing a button to stop the treadmill.


    Arnold finally stopped running. He panted and turned to her. ¡°Are you taking out your anger on me? Did


    Dexter anger you again?¡±


    Josie looked at him sternly. Her eyes burned with fury.


    However, Arnold found her adorable andughed. He reached out to pinch her cheek, but she stopped


    him. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    He had just finished exercising. His eyes were bright, and the air was thick with his pheromone.


    ¡°Did you deliberately arrange for us to have a walk that night?¡±


    Arnold sluggishly withdrew his hand and replied. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying.¡±


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Josie nearly lost her temper. ¡°You keep using me to achieve your goals. Does it make you feel


    aplished? Can you leave me alone?¡±


    His smile gradually faded. He grabbed a towel and wiped the sweat on his neck.


    ¡°You think I did it?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t said anything, but you knew what I meant. It has to be you.¡± Josie felt his response confirmed


    that it was he who revealed the information.


    A woman entered the gym. Josie had seen her before. Her name was Lillian. She came to Arnold and


    gave him a bottle of water.


    Arnold leaned back and gulped a few mouthfuls of water before answering, ¡°Russell Group is popr,


    so it¡¯s normal that everyone knows about the construction site ident once the news broke out. It


    would be more surprising if I didn¡¯t know anything.¡±


    Josie looked up at him. ¡°Are you telling me it was only a coincidence that we were together that night?¡±


    ¡°To be more urate, I was with her. Arnold pointed at Lillian. Lillian flinched and seemed afraid of him.


    Josie did not respond, but she was sure that Arnold was the culprit.


    Arnold ced his hands on the treadmill and looked into her eyes. ¡°Anyway, why would I want to


    expose the information?¡±


    ¡°Your project in Rivodia also had an ident involving your worker. Furthermore, Carter Group and


    Russell Group are rivals,¡± Josie spoke fast but was calm.


    Arnold smiled at her. His eyes crinkled with mirth. ¡°I get it. Dexter must have suspected you and given


    you trouble. That¡¯s why you suspect me, right?¡±


    Josie felt the confrontation was getting out of her control, but she could not stop I believe my suspicion


    is justified¡±


    ¡°Even though he used you without basic?¡±


    Josie was briefly speechless before retorting. That¡¯s none of your business¡±


    ¡°Josic, you might think I¡¯m lying¡± Arnold sighed and appeared helpless. ¡°However, I have nothing to do


    with this matter.¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with you?¡± Josie raised her tone. ¡°You have better not be involved.¡±


    After saying that, she turned on her phone and showed Arnold the screen as she blocked his contact


    ¡°Since you¡¯re not involved, let¡¯s not see each other again to avoid unnecessary troubles¡±


    She knew she had to protect herself and guard her identity. She could afford to divorce, at least for


    now.


    Therefore, she needed to avoid provoking Dexter. To achieve that, she had to cut off all contact with


    Arnold.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze darkened. He looked at the faint bruise on her neck and asked, ¡°Did he hit you?¡±


    Josie frowned slightly and realized he was talking about the bruise Bleu had caused ¡°No¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She turned around to leave, but Arnold grabbed her arm. I asked you a question! Did he hit you?¡±


    Arnold gripped her arm tightly. His usually easygoing expression turned stern.


    I''ve told you. He didn¡¯t!¡±

 Chapter 234

    Chapter 234


    Chapter 234 Hereditary Mental Disorder


    Josie was powerless to fight back.


    Arnold dragged her to his office and would not let her go, no matter how hard she struggled.


    He made Josie sit down. Then, he took out an ointment and applied it to her bruise. There was a hint of


    concern beneath the fury in his eyes..


    Josie felt awkward. ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth. It wasn¡¯t Dexter.¡±


    It was hard to tell what Arnold was thinking. He snorted and asked, ¡°Is there anything he won¡¯t do?¡±


    Josie stopped trying to exin.


    She sat straight and replied, ¡°Arnold, being nice to me now won¡¯t make me forgive you.¡±


    She sounded so childish that Arnold could not help butugh. He leaned closer to her and asked, ¡°Tell


    me. What have I done wrong that requires your forgiveness?¡±


    Josie had a lot to say. However, before she could say anything, she could not help but realize he was


    right. He had not done anything wrong that required her forgiveness.


    She fell silent with frustration. The emotions she had suppressed for the past two days finally burst out.


    ¡°I¡¯m an insignificant de of grass to you and Dexter. All I want is to live, yet you and Dexter keep


    forcing me to do your bidding. If I don¡¯t do them well, you will kill me. How is this fair?¡± Josie¡¯s eyes


    welled up with tears. She looked up and felt unbearable tightness in her chest. I only wish to live.¡±


    Arnold could not bear seeing her like this. He ced his hand on her head,forting her gently. ¡°No


    one wants to kill you.¡±


    ¡°But you and Dexter are pushing me to the brink!¡± Josie could not stand it anymore. ¡°You and Dexter


    are always scheming against each other, and I¡¯m stuck in between, bearing the brunt from both sides.


    Arnold, can you please let me go?¡±


    Josie watched Arnold¡¯s expression darken. He did not respond, but she knew his answer, prompting


    her to


    shudder in fear.


    ¡°Please release me. Perhaps I should never havee here. I was too rash.¡±


    She stood up, but Arnold pressed her back into her seat. ¡°I promise I will keep you and your family


    safe. If Dexter tries to kill you, you cane to me for help. Josie, I will never hurt you.¡±


    He seemed so serious and sincere that Josie was confused.


    Arnold released his grip and stood before the floor-to-ceiling window. He lit a cigarette and said.


    ¡°Dextor¡¯s mother had psychosis. It could be hereditary.¡±


    The revtion struck Josie like lightning and stunned her to her spot. She asked in disbelief, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°During one of her severe psychotic episodes, she beat Dexter so severely that he had to be


    hospitalized.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold exined calmly, but Josie could not stop her heart from beating violently. She did not expect


    there to be such a tragic backstory. No wonder Arnold reacted so agitatedly when he saw her bruise.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible¡­ Dexter never hit me. I¡¯ve been with him for a long time, and he has never been.


    violent.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±


    Josie was stunned. She thought carefully and recalled the ident from that day. Does the time he


    crashes his car into someone else¡¯s count?


    Arnold flicked the cigarette ashes into the ashtray and continued. ¡°He is gically predisposed to


    psychosis and grew up in such a violent environment. How can he not be affected?¡±


    Josic, you don¡¯t know Dexter well.¡±


    Josie sat still and did not move for a long time. She had no idea how she should process this


    revtion. All she knew was that her emotions were a mess. She was afraid but felt sad for him most


    of all.


    Did Dexter grow up in that kind of environment? Suddenly, Josie understood why he always seemed


    hostile. and grim.


    Before she left, Arnold added, ¡°Remember what I told you just now. You cane to me for help any


    time.¡±

 Chapter 235

    Chapter 235


    Chapter 235 Don¡¯t Do It Again


    Russell Group¡¯s public rtion department suppressed the news about the ident on the


    construction


    site.


    Thepany spent a lot of money to appease the victim¡¯s family. At the same time, investigations


    were still ongoing.


    Josie was absent from work for two days. Fortunately, thepany was not busy during this period.


    Moreover, everyone empathized with what happened to her during thepany party. Therefore, no


    one criticized her.


    Josie wanted peace, so she stayed in the vi and did not return to Mason Garden. Dexter did not


    object. and stayed with her. They slept in different rooms. Although they were not close, they still got


    along quite well.


    Dexter went for a run alone in the early morning. Most house owners in this area were prominent


    figures in their fields. They smiled and greeted Dexter whenever they met. ¡°Good morning, Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    Dexter smiled in response to their greeting. He wore a ck jacket and a Sports watch on his morning


    run. He ran on the dew-covered paths before taking the same way back to the vi.


    Josie was still asleep at this hour. He thought about this and ran faster.


    Then, he entered the house through the back gate. There was no one around. He walked past the yard


    and looked at the pond. There were about a dozen colorful carp in the pond. The water lilies were still


    withering in this season. Their dry leaves fluttered in the wind, hiding ripe tubers that would grow into


    new flowers in spring.


    Dexter turned on the tap, allowing crystal-clear water to gush out from it. The pipes were connected to


    a mountain spring. The water had no trace of pollutants and was safe to drink.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter sshed the water on his face and felt refreshed.


    Then, he opened the bedroom door and saw Josie still asleep.


    He quietly went to the kitchen to make breakfast. He had to be self-sufficient since there were no


    servants


    in this vi.


    He received two calls this morning. The first call was from Ivy to give him a report on thetest


    development. Her voice sounded a little hoarse. She had probably worked through the night.


    ¡°Ivy,¡± Dexter said while pouring a ss of milk.


    Ivy answered nervously, ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Ivy knew something was wrong. She raised her voice in protest. ¡°Mr. Russell, have I done something


    wrong?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Ivy had worked for Dexter for a long time and understood what he implied. She bit her lip and


    remained. silent for a long time before saying. I understand¡­¡±


    ¡°This is your final chance. You are to resign if you do this again.¡±


    He did not bother to spare her dignity. His every word was imbued with threat and left her suffocating.


    The second call came from Josic¡¯s phone when he returned to the bedroom. He nced at the screen


    and saw it was a call from someone named ¡®Matt¡¯


    Dexter squinted and picked up the call immediately. He nced at Josie from the corner of his eye and


    saw she was still asleep.


    Jo Jo Matthew sounded drunk.


    Dexter pinched his brow and replied coldly. ¡°Dr. Sander.¡±


    ¡®Click Matthew hung up immediately.


    Dexter licked the corner of his lips and looked annoyed.


    He deleted the call log and ced the phone back in its ce. Then, he went to the bathroom to take a


    bath. Josie was awake when he came out of the bathroom. She sat on the bed with her feet bare and


    ced one foot on the quilt..


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Dexter approached her and ced a hand on her forehead.


    Josie frowned and observed his gentleness with her. She could not sleep well since Arnold told her


    about Dexter¡¯s situation.


    It was hard to imagine that he suffered severeshings in his childhood.


    ¡°What happened to your eyes?¡± Dexter looked closely at her swollen eyes and wondered if mosquitoes


    had bitten her.


    They throbbed under his gaze. Josie¡¯s right eyelid throbbed ever since she returned from meeting


    Arnold, making her feel even more frustrated than she already was.

 Chapter 236

    Chapter 236


    Chapter 236 Who Told You


    Dexter got up to find a hotpress for her eyes.


    Josie rubbed her eyes and rolled to the other side of the bed to find her phone. She wanted to call.


    Matthew as she was worried that something would happen.


    However, Dexter had already returned. He sat on the bed and patted her head. ¡°Get up. Let me check


    your


    eyes.


    Josie had no choice but to let him touch her. Strangely, her fear disappeared.


    The weather was good that day. She went out to the yard in her pajamas and messy hair and sat there


    to get some sunlight. She watched the warm sunlight shining on the white walls.


    Dexter had left his ck jacket on the bench. Josie picked it up and covered herself with it to stay


    warm.


    As a student, she loved wearing her male ssmates¡¯ jackets. They always felt warmer than her own


    After a while, Dexter came and urged her to wash up. He nned to bring her to see Laura and thank


    her for saving her that night.


    Josie knew the visit would be different this time as he was going with her.


    She was surprised to discover that Laura had been discharged. Moreover, her house was nearby.


    Although her home was slightly smaller, it had an antique architectural style.


    It was nearly noon, but Laura was still sleeping.


    Her father showed them a doctor¡¯s certificate, stating that Laura had a slight concussion and needed to


    recuperate in peace.


    Josie felt remorseful. ¡°Mr. Brandel, it¡¯s my fault. If not for me, Laura wouldn¡¯t have gotten injured.*


    Dexter ced his hand on her back. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡±


    Mr. Brandel looked at them cryptically before agreeing solemnly. ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s not your fault. Laura


    is doing okay. The doctor said she would recover with some rest. If anyone is to me, it¡¯s that


    scoundrel!¡±


    Then, he frowned and added, ¡°What about you? Did you get hurt?¡±


    Josie shook her head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Dexter will punish him for what he has done. You are now a Russell. He can never hope


    to remain in Wavery after what he had done to you!¡±


    Mr. Brandel seemed to imply something.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes shed briefly with anger upon hearing him. However, when talking to Josie, he softened


    his tone. ¡°You should go in to see Laura. I will stay here and chat with Mr. Brandel¡±


    There was a pavilion nearby. Dexter watched Josie until she walked out of sight before turning to the


    older man with a shallow smile. ¡°Please lead the way¡±


    The servants immediately served food and drinks at the pavilion. Mr. Brandel sipped tea and said,


    ¡°Dexter, I was surprised to see you beat up that man at the party.¡±


    Dexter appeared emotionless and sped his hands before him. At the same time, he observed the


    window to Laura¡¯s room.


    ¡°After all, it involved Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Dexter promised calmly, ¡°Laura saved my wife. I will make sure to repay this favor.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie sat in a chair in Laura¡¯s room, waiting for her to wake up.


    She sank into deep thoughts whenever she was alone. Her eyes turned dazed.


    She knew Laura was awake but pretended to be asleep to avoid talking to her. Thus, she said. ¡°Stop


    pretending. Isn¡¯t it tiring?¡±


    Laura did not respond. As expected, a person feigning sleep would never admit to being awake.


    ¡°Laura. I have a question. Do you know what kind of person Dexter¡¯s mother was?¡± Josie had been


    thinking about this recently. Initially, she wanted to ask Dexter, but on further consideration, she felt it


    was better


    not to.


    Although Laura was an illegitimate daughter, she was still a daughter of the Brandel family, so she


    should know something.


    As expected. Laura jumped up from her bed and stared at Josie. ¡°Why do you suddenly ask this? Who


    told you about it?¡±


    Josie observed her reaction and guessed, ¡°Was she psychotic?¡±


    Laura narrowed her eyes mysteriously. ¡°Did Mr. Russell tell you about her?¡±Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 237

    Chapter 237


    Chapter 237 Let¡¯s nt a Tree


    The matter seemed to be a secret.


    Josie saw Laura¡¯s reaction and confirmed Arnold did not lie to her. ¡°It¡¯s true then.¡±


    Laura appeared awkward. She got off the bed and stood on her bare feet. ¡°It¡¯s all in the past.¡± She


    paused. briefly before continuing. ¡°Don¡¯t mention this to him. It¡¯s his sore spot. Do you understand?¡±


    Josie had guessed that. However, Dexter knocked on the door before she could ask more questions.


    He must have been tired of waiting and came to urge her to leave.


    ¡°Jo¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She nodded at Laura and responded, ¡°I¡¯ming¡±


    After that, Dexter and Josie stayed in the vi for all three days of the New Year¡¯s holiday. They did not


    return to Mason Garden.


    Perhaps it was due to the festive season, or Josie deliberately avoided arguing with him. Their


    rtionship. was quite amicable.


    Josie secretly researched symptoms of psychosis. Unfortunately, it was tooplicated for her to


    comprehend. She nned to ask Matthew about it one day


    On the other hand, Dexter came to enjoy cooking and did not ask Julie to send food over. Instead, he


    cooked their meals and was quite good at it.


    He made baked sablefish with white wine and lemon for lunch. He bought the ingredients and cooked


    everything by himself.


    It was difficult to find sablefish. Josie had a sudden idea when he told her about this and suggested


    rearing. it in their pond.


    However, Dexter was not amused. He brought her to the pond and exined, ¡°These fishes swam into


    the pond from the spring. If you wish to try them, I can cook fish stew tomorrow.¡±


    Between baked sablefish and fish stew, Josie preferred thetter. She liked food sourced locally and


    simple home-cooked food.


    Dexter observed the gleam in her eyes and took note of her preferences. Then, he helped her tie her


    hair and asked casually, ¡°Do you prefer it here or in Mason Garden?¡±


    Josie looked at the carp in the pond. ¡°Here.¡±


    She paused briefly and exined, ¡°When I was younger, Justin and I were sent to the countryside


    during the summer holidays. It was a rural vige. There was a pond in front of the house and a vast


    wheat field at the back. During autumn, the wheat field turned into a sea of gold under the sun. It was a


    sight to behold. There was also a river nearby with carp and trout.¡±


    Josie pondered briefly and gestured to Dexter the size of the trout. They were this big¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips before rxing into a smile.


    He imagined Josie as a kid, folding up the hem of her pants to catch fish in the river. She would get her


    clothes all wet. The adults would scold her once she got home.


    She must have been adorable.


    Thus, he instantly figured out how they would live in the future.


    ¡°Josie!¡± Dexter called Josie to the yard after lunch. Someone had delivered many small peach trees to


    the yard. She had no idea how Dexter arranged it.


    Josie ran outside and looked at the trees in disbelief. ¡°You want to nt trees? It¡¯s winter.¡±


    Dexter had taken off his coat and took up a shovel. Tve consulted someone about it. He said they will


    survive.¡±


    Josie assumed he consulted an expert on this matter.


    Although Josie was not entirely convinced, she still helped him to nt the trees.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The dozen of trees were spread out all over the yard. Josie asked while they watered the trees, ¡°Will


    they blossom during spring?¡±


    Josie stood straight and looked at the trees that had to survive winter. She felt sorrowful about the


    struggles they were about to face, yet she was also encouraged by their perseverance.


    The yard will be a sight to behold if these trees survive and blossom in spring.


    Suddenly, Josie felt a spark of anticipation for the days toe.


    Dexter bent over the nts to water them. He was good-looking even in such a posture. Moreover, his


    expression no longer seemed cold but became more youthful.

 Chapter 238

    Chapter 238


    Chapter 238 She Angered Him


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She found it hard to believe that the handsome man before her had a


    hereditary psychological condition.


    She felt anguished whenever she thought about it. Then, she took a deep breath and excused herself,


    saying she wanted to return to her room to wash her hands.


    In actuality, she sneaked away to make a phone call. ¡°Matt¡±


    Matthew was surprised to receive her call. He sounded unnatural and a little hesitant. ¡°Jo.¡±


    ¡°I want to consult you about something. I have a friend¡­ His mother had a psychological condition.


    What is the possibility of him inheriting it?¡±


    ¡°What kind of psychological condition did she have?¡±


    ¡°Erm. She would turn violent and uncontroble. She even hit her child during one of her extreme


    episodes.¡±


    Matthew pondered briefly before replying. ¡°I can help you to ask a colleague in the psychiatry


    department.¡±


    ¡°Sure, let me know once you find out about it.¡±


    Then, she hung up and put away the phone. She nced out of the window and discovered Dexter


    was no longer there. Thus, she hurried out of the room and opened the door, only to find a lengthy


    figure blocking her way.


    Dexter stood before her in clothes stained with mud. He looked down at her with cold and emotionless


    eyes.


    That chilling calmness sent panic through Josie¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Dexter?¡± Did he hear it?


    However, Dexter remained silent. Josie tried to exin, only to be interrupted, ¡°Who told you.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t talking about.¡±


    ¡°Was it Arnold?¡±


    Josie wanted to deny Arnold¡¯s involvement but could not say anything. She could not lie to Dexter


    ¡°Please listen to me. I have no ill intentions. I only wish to


    Dexter dropped the shovel from his hand. He turned around without a word and walked out of sight.


    Jusic opened her mouth but could not speak. She had never seen him look so alone and disconsolite.


    He disappeared for a few days after that incident


    She only heard about him again when the tabloid spected he was involved with a female


    entrepreneur They were photographed entering the same hotel.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    The design department was buzzing with gossip about the scandal. However, Josie felt terrible, as if


    she had been plunged into icy waters.


    She wanted to find Dexter to exin the misunderstanding. She moved back to Mason Garden, hoping


    to see him. However, he never showed up. Then, she went to his office on the top floor but could not


    find him. The secretary would only say that he was away.


    It was the final work day before the holiday began. Josie woke up early, as usual, to go to work. She


    had no idea which servant made breakfast, but everything on the table was the food she hated.


    That worsened her mood and left her without appetite. She drank from a ss of honey water while


    typing on her phone to instruct her subordinates about work.


    Julie knew Josie¡¯s preference but did not say anything. Josie had an idea about what was going on.


    It made her feel depressed. She nced at the unending snow outside the window and recalled the


    historical drama Alice was recently obsessed with.


    Dozens of royal mistresses fought for the king¡¯s affection. They schemed and conspired against each


    other, securing their position by getting rid of rivals or acting pitifully to secure favor. The king¡¯s love


    flitted among them..


    It did not matter who he liked. Anyone who lost his favor would lose everything.


    What¡¯s the point of all this?


    Josie felt a sudden solidarity with the royal mistresses in the drama.


    Suddenly, she heard someonee in, and the maid greeted, ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie did not look up but left the table with her ss of honey water. However, Dexter grabbed her wrist


    and said coldly, ¡°Have breakfast with me.¡±


    Tve eaten breakfast and have to rush off to work, I don¡¯t want to lose my attendance bonus by being


    late.¡±


    The dining room was silent. Even Julie did not dare to make a sound. The atmosphere was strained by


    the tension between Dexter and Josie.

 Chapter 239

    Chapter 239


    Chapter 239 A Chance Meeting


    Dexter dragged Josie back to her seat. ¡°Ill pay you double.¡±


    The servant immediately removed the food on the table and reced them with the food Dexter liked.


    Josie¡¯s expression darkened. The new servant stood by the table and seemed eager to please Dexter.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I don¡¯t know Mrs. Russell¡¯s food preferences.¡±


    Dexter seemed famished. He ate without taking off his coat. There were kes of snow on his


    shoulders.


    After a few bites of food, he nced at Josie¡¯s ss of honey water and responded, ¡°There¡¯s no need


    to apologize. Did you hear her say anything?¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. She had thought for many days about how she should exin the matter.


    However, she could not bring herself to speak.


    ¡°I heard you were looking for me recently.¡± He looked at her with cold indifference.


    ¡°You seemed busy recently. I have a document requiring your signature but could never find you¡± Josie


    forced out a smile.


    She could not understand why Dexter was doing this. She meant well for him, but he repaid her with


    cold. abandonment and humiliated her with scandals.


    ¡°You can give it to the secretary.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    That was the end of their conversation.


    Thest day of work came to an end. Josie could not stop thinking about what had happened during


    breakfast. She packed her things absentmindedly and left the design department with Alice and the


    others. Meanwhile, Alice discussed thetest popr film with Kevan.


    ¡°Let¡¯s watch it. I have to return home tomorrow. It will be half a month before we meet again.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Jo, do you want to go? It¡¯s my treat.¡± Kevan¡¯s words awakened Josie from her daze.


    Josie did not care about the movie. However, she knew she could not meet Dexter if she returned to


    Mason Garden. Even if she did see him, he would only mock her with his sarcasm.


    ¡°Sure¡±


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    By now, most of the employees had left the building. Thus, the elevator was much less crowded than


    before. However, no one expected to see Dexter when the elevator door opened.


    Dexter seemed cold and stern, as usual. A secretary stood behind him.


    Josie uniled stiffly. It was unusual for him to be here at this hour.


    Even Kevan was a little stunned. He tugged Josie¡¯s sleeve and greeted, ¡°Mr. Russell¡±


    Kevan had only seen Dexter a handful of times since joining Russell Group. He was in awe of his


    powerful


    presence every time.


    Josie looked at Dexter and remained silent.


    It made Kevan nervous.


    Dexter nodded in acknowledgment of his greeting and moved to the side to create more space. It


    meant he invited them to join him in the elevator.


    Kevan and Alice dared not refuse and dragged Josie into the elevator.


    Josie stood stiffly in the cramped corner. She could not escape Dexter¡¯s minty fragrance and instantly


    felt awake.


    The elevator traveled down slowly, prolonging the awkward silence between them.


    Josie chose to y with her phone.


    The elevator finally stopped. At the same time, Alice¡¯s phone rang. ¡°Hello? Mom?¡±


    ¡°What? I will go home now! Wait for me!¡±


    Then, she turned to Josie and whispered excitedly. ¡°My mother arranged for me to have a blind date


    with a handsome man. I have to leave now. You can watch the movie with Kevan.¡±


    ¡°Make sure to grab this chance,¡± Alice said and winked hintingly. She disapproved of Josie¡¯s husband


    and felt Kevan was a better choice.


    Hearing Alice¡¯s tone, Josie lost any desire to y with her phone. She nced at Kevan and noticed


    he seemed awkward. Even his ears were red.


    The elevator door closed again. Josie sensed the chilly aura from the body beside her.


    Dextor¡¯s voice filled her ears. ¡°Are you going to watch a movie?¡±


    Kevan was stunned by Dexter suddenly striking up a conversation with him. He thought Dexter did it to


    understand his employees better.


    At the same time, Kevan thought it would be advantageous to tter his employer.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell. It¡¯s recently been a popr romantic film.¡±

 Chapter 240

    Chapter 240


    Chapter 240 A Steamy Scene


    Unexpectedly, Dexter did not respond or look at Kevant


    Thus, Kevan had choice but to shut up.


    The elevator arrived at the underground car park. Josie was the first to leave and did not spare a


    backward nce Kevan bid Dexter goodbye before running to catch up with Josie


    Dexter frowned upon seeing them.


    The secretary sensed his bad mood and felt nervous.


    ¡°What¡¯s the film about?¡±


    ¡°Oh The secretary pondered before exining awkwardly, T. I haven¡¯t had time to watch it, but I read


    the reviews. I think it has a steamy scene.¡±¡±


    She had worked for Dexter for many years Thus, she knew what Dexter wanted to hear and what


    would make him angry.


    As expected, Dexter¡¯s expression darkened rapidly upon hearing her.


    Meanwhile, Kevan caught up with Josic.


    Many people were already waiting outside the cinema.


    The cinema was located on a za belonging to Dester. They came out of the underground


    supermarket and saw it was crowded everywhere. Moreover, the ce was prosperous due to its


    proximity to Russell Group


    Kevan bought fried chicken and popcorn for Josie, but she refused it repeatedly. She would have liked


    those things a few years ago, but she had since learned to take care of herself and had not had junk


    food for a long time.


    Moreover, she had lived in Mason Garden for so long that her taste bud became refined.


    Who knew it was that easy to develop a different habit?


    In short, it was hard to return to ordinary life after one got used to luxury.


    Josie stared at Kevan¡¯s sad expression dazedly until the surrounding noises alerted her that the movie


    was about to begin.


    She took the bucket of popcorn from Kevan and smiled, Tll have the popcorn¡±


    Josie was twenty-two years old but usually appeared mature beyond her young age. Thus, Kevan was


    surprised to see her rxed and genume smile. It made her seem even more youthful than usual.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Moreover, with her fair and wless skin, her smile reminded him of white pear blossoms in full bloom


    Kevan was briefly stunned before running to catch up with Josic


    Their seats were at the back. The movie begau right after they were seated


    The opening credit listed the movie¡¯s investors One of them was Dexter¡¯s recently rumores gulfriend.


    Josie pretended not to notice it.


    The film was about two girls in love with the same guy. One boldly expressed her love, while the other


    concealed her feelings. The film focused on the friendship of the two girls who were best friends. On


    the other hand, the male lead turned out to be a scumbag the audience despised. He was indecisive


    and desired both girls. He arrogantly believed he deserved to have everything.


    A few audience members began to shed tears halfway into the movie.


    There was a scene in the bathroom where the two girls fought. They pulled at each other¡¯s clothes and


    sshed water at each other. usations were thrown around, and tears were shed. The scene


    ended with them apologizing to each other.


    Josie was focused on the movie. The light from the screen shone on her face and made her glow


    alluringly.


    ¡°I thought you were my best friend! How could you fall in love with him?¡±


    The girl pped her friend.


    ¡°Two¡­. two years¡­ Did you sleep with him? You make me nauseous. How could you be so


    shameless?¡±


    The other girl pped back and tried to tear off her friend¡¯s clothes.


    ¡°You d¡¯mn b*tch!¡±


    However, the girl grabbed her hand before she could p her. ¡°You call me a b*tch? Have you no


    conscience? Did you ever truly see me as your friend? How dare you blurt such tant lies?¡±


    Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.


    Only idots will let themselves be tricked by the same lies repeatedly.


    ¡°Ms. Jo?¡± A soft voice called out to her, waking her from her thoughts.

 Chapter 241

    Chapter 241


    Chapter 241 Technical Issues


    Josie turned to Kevan. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Kevan took a piece of popcorn from her bucket and popped it in his mouth. ¡°Which character do you


    prefer? Between the two girls, who do you like better?¡±


    He was suddenly eager to discuss the film.


    Josie nced at the screen and answered softly, ¡°I prefer the girl who is now scolding the other one.¡±


    ¡°Why? I thought you would prefer the quieter one.¡±


    Most people would like her. She seems timid, like a rabbit. However, she secretly entered a


    rtionship with the guy while maintaining her crumbling friendship with lies. How is she any different


    from the despicable male lead? Still, her good girl act must have helped endear the audience to her.


    Josie smiled and exined, ¡°Nothing would have happened if this girl did not take the initiative. Then,


    the drama wouldn¡¯t have been so tragic. It is a misconception to say that love is beyond control. In


    actuality, love is controble. However, what drove her to do all these was not love but the sense of


    vanity deep within her. She used love as an excuse for her actions. It probably stems from her low self¨C


    esteem.¡±


    Hearing her, Kevan was unsure whether to nod in agreement. He did not expect Josie to make such a


    deep analysis of the characters.


    His palms broke out in cold sweat. Suddenly, he shouted, ¡°Ms. Jo¡­¡±


    Josie grunted in response. Her thoughts were clear at this moment.


    Suddenly, the cinema turned pitch ck. Even the light on the screen was gone. The other audience


    began voicing out in panic, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    The cinema had a sudden ckout in the middle of the movie.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Kevan took the opportunity to hold Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t be scared.¡±


    Soon, the staff entered the hall and turned on the light, brightening the ce. Someone announced,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone! Our film projector is damaged, and we can¡¯t continue to screen the movie!¡±


    ¡°What? We paid for the tickets!¡±


    ¡°Please calm down, everyone. If you leave this hall now, our staff will give you a gift as an apology.


    Also, please remember to keep your tickets. We will have another free screening of this movie at the


    same time


    tomorrow.¡±


    In actuality, the audience did not lose anything. Moreover, it could not be helped since the projector


    suddenly broke down. Unfortunately, not everyone would have time to make it to the recement


    screening on the next day.


    Josie, for one, would not be joining.


    After understanding what had happened, the audience grumbled and left the cinema.


    Kevan felt sorry for what had happened. ¡°What bad luck. The cinema has technical issues on the rare


    chance that we came out for a movie.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips and removed her hand from his hold. She nced at the time and saw it was still


    early.


    ¡°Want to go downstairs to¡­¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t,¡± Josie refused straight away. ¡°I have to deal with some matters at home, so I can¡¯t go out too


    long.¡± Then, she paused before continuing, ¡°Thank you for inviting me to a movie tonight.¡±


    After that, she bid him goodbye and turned around to go downstairs. However, Kevan suddenly pulled


    her hand. There was slight redness in the, corner of his eyes. ¡°Ms. Jo!¡±


    Josie paused. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Kevan stuttered. ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    She went outside and found herself on the street full of luxury goods gship stores.


    It was snowing mildly. The pure white snowkes fell gradually under the illumination of the street


    lamps. Theynded on the dusty ground and soon became dirtied by people trampling on them.


    Josie walked for a while and thought of finding somewhere warm to rest. She considered her family


    home, the hospital, the office, and so on. In fact, she considered everywhere except Mason Garden.


    She paused and stood still to think.


    ¡°Wee! How may I help you, Miss?¡±


    It was a cold and snowy night, so few people came out to shop. The shop assistants seemed listless.

 Chapter 242

    Chapter 242


    Chapter 242 A Shopping Spree


    The shop assistant was sharp and instantly gauged the price of Josie¡¯s clothes.


    She was astounded to discover that her clothes were not from high¨Cend brands but were specially


    tailored for her. They were a level of luxury above high¨Cend brands.


    The shop assistant perked up immediately.


    Josie wanted to try spending extravagantly like how characters did in the novels she read. She kept the


    supplementary credit card Dexter gave her in her purse.


    She was not sure if he canceled it yet.


    It took courage to go on a spending spree. She took a deep breath before pointing at the row of


    merchandise and instructed indifferently, ¡°Pack these up for me. I¡¯ll pay with my credit card.¡±


    The supplementary card did not require pin codes.


    The shop assistant happily swiped the card. Josie was surprised that it worked.


    She was unable to stop after that.


    ¡°Can you send the things to this address? Someone will be there to receive them.¡±


    Then, Josie went from store to store along the street and emptied the shelves in each ce. She


    walked out empty¨Chanded, but delivery vans left to send her purchases to Mason Garden.


    She had set out to annoy Dexter.


    Meanwhile, Dexter¡¯s secretary received a call from the bank, saying that Dexter¡¯s credit card had an


    odd number of transactions that night.


    The secretary immediately reported it to Dexter.


    Dexter was dealing with work in the car and looked up briefly to read the message from the bank. He


    twirled his fingers and looked emotionlessly at the traffic jam ahead.


    He had wondered why Josie kept visiting various gship stores.


    It turned out she was spending his


    money.


    He instructed indifferently, ¡°Tell the bank to raise the spending limit of her card. Then, she will see what


    a real shopping spree is.¡±


    On the other hand, Josie was surprised that Dexter never called her. By now, she had shopped until the


    end of the shopping street. The card seemed to have no limit.


    -She had seen numerous shop assistants smiling from ear to ear and thanking her in various manners.


    However, those gave her no joy at all. Instead, she felt even more depressed than before.


    The snowfall grew heavier as she stood at the end of the street. She tightened her coat and headed


    toward the five¨Cstar hotel across the street.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Once she checked in, she called Arnold and said, ¡°I¡¯m in a hotel near Russell Group. My room number


    is 1356.¡±


    Arnold was probably outdoors. She heard the wind whirling and howling on his side.


    Josie was not interested in listening further and hung up the call. She fell onto the soft bed before


    getting up again to bathe.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ Mrs. Russell checked into a hotel.¡± The secretary, tracking Josie¡¯s movements, looked at


    Dexter bewilderedly.


    Why did she suddenly enter a hotel alone?


    Dexter pressed the corner of his eyebrows and speedily typed an email to a subordinate. Then, he shut


    hisptop and saw a Cayenne speeding down the street, rushing toward the hotel.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°Find out which room Mrs. Russell is staying in.¡±


    He knew who was in that car. Only one person in Wavery owned a blue Cayenne.


    Meanwhile, Arnold left a business gathering and sped down the road. A snowke fell on his brow, and


    he seemed in high spirits.


    The door was not locked.


    It opened with a slight push and revealed a brightly lit room. He saw Josie¡¯s coat on the bed and heard


    sounds of running water from the bathroom. Arnold¡¯s heartbeat quickened slightly¡­ No, it was beating


    rapidly.


    Suddenly, an attendant entered with a meal cart. ¡°Good evening, sir. This is the dinner you ordered.¡±


    Arnold noticed the lighted red candles and a bottle of red wine on the cart.


    He wondered if the hotel prepared them for Josie or if they were things she specifically requested.


    The attendant ced the food on the table and looked at Arnold ambiguously before leaving. He even


    closed the door for them.


    Soon, Josie came out of the bathroom wrapped securely in a bathrobe. She saw Arnold and nodded


    calmly. ¡°Let¡¯s have dinner.¡±

 Chapter 243

    Chapter 243


    Chapter 243 She Used Him


    Arnold stood still. He wore a light brown coat and looked suave as he leaned against the cable


    ¡°You called me out of a business negotiation just for dinner?¡±


    Josie was no longer afraid of him and looked up with a smile. ¡°You took advantage of me many times it


    wrong for me to do the same?¡±


    Arnold snorted softly before pulling out a chair and sitting down. He yed with an expensive-looking


    rosary in his hand.


    ¡°I was in a nine-figure business negotiation. You better have something important to discuss with me¡±


    Josie sipped a little red wine. The candle me flickered as sheughed. ¡°Arnold, do you like me


    A subtle emotion shed in Arnold¡¯s eyes before disappearing immediately. Then, he behaved yfully


    usual. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that I¡¯ve always liked you? Why? Have you finally decided to divorce Dexter


    ¡°What if I don¡¯t divorce him?¡± Josie asked daringly. ¡°Will you still want me if I don¡¯t divorce him Arnold


    finally stopped ying with the rosary. His pupils darkened with desire. Although Josie was not


    considered beautiful, she had spirited eyes. One could not help but be mesmerized by them


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He looked at her and could not hide his curiosity. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Seeing that he could still reason, Josie gave up on the question. She looked at the snow outside the


    windo and finished her te of steak.


    Arnold did not move but quietly waited for her to finish eating. After around fifteen minutes, something


    in Josie snapped. She dropped her cutleries and suddenly leaned toward Arnold to kiss his lips.


    Arnold lost all the little rationality he had left. Desires burst from his heart.


    Josie gently ced her hand on the back of his head. She left a fleeting kiss on his lips before moving


    slightly. Their faces were close as they looked into each other¡¯s eyes. Her gaze seemed gentler than


    the candlelight.


    Josie¡­ Do you know what you¡¯re doing?¡±


    She gave him another kiss and moved away immediately. ¡°You haven¡¯t answered me.¡±


    Arnold felt his desires stir. He could see her bare skin from the front of her bathrobe.


    Her skin was fair and smooth as a pearl. His throat tightened, and his breathing increased in urgency


    Suddenly, Josie¡¯s phone rang. Arnold felt her hand trembling slightly. Her gaze became alert, and she


    let him go.


    It was a call from Alice. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Alice sounded urgent. ¡°Have you seen the email I sent you? Why haven¡¯t you replied?¡±


    ¡°I will deal with it right now.¡±


    Due to the interruption, the passion from before disappeared without a trace and could not be reignited


    Josie looked at the door and sensed no movements outside. It seemed no one woulde to stop her


    even if she continued what she was doing with Arnold,


    The realization filled her with brief frustration.


    Still, it did not bother her for long. She knew she would not lose to anyone when it came to patience.


    ¡°Josie.¡± Arnold looked at her solemnly.


    Josie pursed her lip. ¡°I have to leave. Something urgent came up with work.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send you.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. I will go downstairs to call a taxi. It will be here soon.¡±


    She went to the bathroom and put on her clothes. When she came out, Arnold already called a ride for


    her through an app. It was waiting downstairs.


    He watched Josie walk away and called to her. ¡°Should I pretend nothing happened tonight?¡±


    Josie smiled and made a hand gesture, indicating to him not to treat what had happened as a fact.


    ¡°Miss, where to?¡±


    Josie put on the seatbelt and read out Mason Garden¡¯s address.


    She had arranged with Alice before Arnold arrived at the hotel. Alice was to call her in half an hour and


    pretend there was something urgent.

 Chapter 244

    Chapter 244


    Chapter 244 Humiliating the Tabloid Girlfriend


    It waste at night, and the servants in Mason Garden were finishing up work for the day.


    Julie opened the door and was surprised to see Josie. ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie demanded expressionlessly, ¡°I want to see Dexter.¡±


    She did not wait for Julie to respond and entered the house. ¡°I know he¡¯s here.¡±


    His car was parked outside.


    Julie immediately blocked her way. ¡°It¡¯s not the right time. Mrs. Russell, please let me inform him first.¡±


    Josie red at her for the first time. I¡¯m his wife. Why do I need you to seek permission to meet him?¡±


    However, Julie still refused to let her through, prompting anger within Josie. She shoved Julie¡¯s hand


    away, leaving a big red mark on it.


    There was no one in the master bedroom.


    Josie rushed around and stopped before the study, noticing the door open. Josie looked at the


    servant¡¯s expression and knew something was going in there.


    Before she could ponder further, a voice sounded, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie could not see the speaker, but her voice sounded familiar.


    Soon, a woman in a ck dress came out of the study. She carried a book and appeared dignified and


    rxed. Josie had seen her before. She was the person the tabloid imed was Dexter¡¯s girlfriend, an


    entrepreneur called Ms. Sharp.


    ¡°Ms. Sharp.¡±


    Ms. Sharp looked at her arrogantly and asked, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Josie calmed her fury immediately. She did not answer her but walked past her into the study.


    Unexpectedly, there was no one in the study. She pushed open the lounge door and saw that it was


    empty.


    Julie rushed to Josie and answered. ¡°Mr. Russell is not at home.¡±


    ¡°He has invited Ms. Sharp here as a guest.¡±


    Dexter had called to inform Julie about this, so she did not hesitate to invite Ms. Sharp to wait in the


    study. Moreover, Ms. Sharp was charming.


    Her words made Josie think Ms. Sharp frequently met with Dexter in Mason Garden while she was


    absent. -She approached Ms. Sharp intimidatingly. Then, she nced at Ms. Sharp¡¯s hand and


    realized she was


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    holding the interior design book Dexter had bought for her.


    Josie snatched the book and smiled stillly. ¡°Ms. Sharp, this is Mr. Russell¡¯s study. He doesn¡¯t simply


    allow anyone to enter here. Since you¡¯re a guest, I hope you conduct yourself with manners befitting a


    guest.¡±


    She waved the book and opened the cover to show her the title page. ¡°Please refrain from touching


    other people¡¯s things.¡±


    Ms. Sharp¡¯s expression darkened. Her expression changedpletely, losing all traces of her previous


    charm.


    ¡°You!¡±


    There was a name written on the page. Josie Warren.


    It was Dexter¡¯s handwriting. He wrote with such force that he left an imprint on the page below.


    Josie had a habit of writing her name on her book since she was a student.


    Dexter had beautiful handwriting. Thus, she pestered him to write the title page and joked that if they


    divorced, she might be able to provide for herself using his signature.


    Seeing Ms. Sharp¡¯s furious expression, Josie realized her effort to coax Dexter to write on the page


    had paid off.


    Josie had waggled the title page before her eyes. Ms. Sharp knew by now whose book this was.


    Ms. Sharp narrowed her eyes. ¡°Who the heck are you?


    Meanwhile, Dexter stood grimly outside room number 1359 and looked at the opposite room, room


    number 1356.


    An attendant came out of the room after tidying it. ¡°Sir, how may I help you?¡±


    ¡°Is someone inside?¡±


    ¡°The guest has already checked out.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s secretary trembled fearfully and exined, ¡°Mr. Russell, it was an ident. I didn¡¯t realize I


    made. a mistake.¡±


    If the bodyguards keeping watch outside hadn¡¯t called to inform that Josie had left, Dexter would have


    burst into fury after searching the wrong room. He might even tear down the hotel.


    Then, he would kill his secretary.

 Chapter 245

    Chapter 245


    Chapter 245 A Sense of Trepidation


    Now that he received urate news, Dexter could calm down from his fears gradually.


    Thest goodness


    Luckily, she did not dare to cheat on him. Otherwise, he would have killed her and turned her into a


    specimen.


    It was not a threat but a certainty.


    Ms. Sharp¡¯s question was met with silence.


    Now that Josie was calmer, she reflected on her actions and wondered if she had gone overboard. She


    entered the study and returned the book to its ce. Then, she checked Dexter¡¯sputer and


    essential documents and found nothing wrong.


    She reprimanded the servants as she walked past them, ¡°Please do your job properly.¡±


    Ms. Sharp shook with fury. She noticed from Josie¡¯s actions that she was familiar with this ce. It


    seemed she lived here. Even Ms. Sharp would not dare to speak to the servants in Mason Garden in


    the tone Josie used.


    Julie realized her mistake. After Josie left, she said, ¡°Ms. Sharp, please follow me outside.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so careless next time.¡± The secretary ended the call in the car and immediately sensed a


    sharp gaze from the back.


    A cold voice sounded, ¡°Who called?¡±


    ¡°It was from a servant in Mason Garden. She said Ms. Sharp met with Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Dexter suddenly recalled that he had invited Ms. Sharp to Mason Garden to negotiate business


    matters.


    He felt Ms. Sharp was quite capable and desired to coborate with her. However, he was t


    preupied with Josie that he forgot about her.


    ¡°What happened next?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Josie humiliated Ms. Sharp¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s stern expression thawed slightly, and his lips curved into a slight smile. He leaned against the


    car with a hand on the window and briefly closed his eyes. Then, he asked


    nay Is the design department in Crong subdiary will bring


    secret speedily recalled the relevant information and implied. ¡°Yes¡±


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Den shut his eyes and was greeted with darkness


    Trifer Kevan there once the holiday is over.¡±


    ¡°¡®¡±Yes, sir


    Joe slept till morning. She immediately woke up and headed to the bathroom, only to realize the door


    would not open.


    She woke uppletely and knew Dexter had returned.


    Before she could do anything, the door suddenly opened. Dexter had just finished a bath, causing the


    warm steam to gush out of the bathroom. He tied a towel around his waist. leaving his firm and


    muscr chest bare. Water dripped down his abs, prompting Josie to blush.


    Dexter dried his hair with another towel and looked down at her. ¡°You¡¯re awake.


    Josie looked down and did not know what to say. ¡°Yes¡­¡±


    She could not help but feel awkward now that they were suddenly talking again.


    Josie stepped aside and gave him space to walk. Dexter askednguidly, ¡°You bought so man things.


    Don¡¯t you want to see them?¡±


    She suddenly realized her purchases had been sent to the closet and arranged properly.


    Still, she refused to give in and grumbled softly, ¡°Arrogant, wealthy people.¡±


    Dexter snorted and pulled her over to him. He sat and ordered, ¡°Help me blow my hair dry


    ¡°Why should I?¡± Josie protested.


    Dexter looked up upon hearing her, prompting her to back down immediately. ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    His hair was coarse and felt prickly as she brushed her fingers through them. Josie dried hi hair with a


    hairdryer and said softly, ¡°You were herest night, right?¡±


    Dexter put on his pants. ¡°Your voice is too soft. I can¡¯t hear you.¡±


    Josie resisted the urge to scold him and repeated her words loudly.


    Dexter sneered and asked, ¡°What do


    you think?¡±


    Josie formed her conclusion once she finished drying his hair She set the hairdryer wide and hesitated


    for a long time. Then, she observed Dexter¡¯s mood before saying, Erm, can you hug me?¡±

 Chapter 246

    Chapter 246


    Chapter 246 Her Heart Ached For Him


    Arching his brows, Dexter reached out his hand to pull Josie into his arms. Josie was relieved, thinking


    she could cling to him even if he became mad againter.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Dexter. I didn¡¯t do it on purpose that day. I asked because I was worried about you. I have no


    bad intentions.¡± Josie babbled quickly, worrying Dexter wouldn¡¯t buy her words.


    Dexter was no longer hostile like the other day. He ced his hand on Josie¡¯s waist and didn¡¯t answer


    her directly. ¡°Did you meet up with Arnold yesterday to irritate me?¡±


    Josie was reluctant to admit her childish act.


    Perceiving her acquiescence, Dexter caressed her hair. ¡°You can rest assured that I¡¯ll not harm you.


    Neither do I have a disposition for violence, so don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not worried about that.¡± Josie quickly said. ¡°I just¡­ feel sorry for your experience.¡±


    Although Josie had lost her mother, she knew how much a family¡¯s behavior could impact the children.


    She couldn¡¯t imagine how traumatized Dexter was to be beaten up badly by his own mother and even


    hospitalized.


    She could understand why Dexter was always cold and hostile.


    Dexter was surprised to hear Josie¡¯s words. There¡¯s actually someone in this world who feels sorry for


    me.


    Josie hugged him. ¡°Please don¡¯t take it to heart, Dexter.¡±


    Dexter stood rooted on the ground asplicated emotions arose in him. At that moment, he found


    Josie like a wildflower, simple yet attractive.


    Dexter got a hold of himself. Feeling Josie¡¯s warm breath, Dexter suddenly ced his hand on her


    chest and teased, ¡°Your heart¡¯s pounding, huh? Are you that nervous to draw close to me?¡±


    Josie shot a re at him but didn¡¯t deny it. She knew he deliberately teased her.


    So, she didn¡¯t bother with him but remained silent like an upset little girl.


    ¡°You must be happy to be with your rumored girlfriend the past few days.¡±


    Josie¡¯s remark pleased Dexter. Sitting beside her, he pulled up his sweatpants, revealing his appealing


    ankle.


    Her Heart Ached For Him


    He peeled a grape and sent it to Josie¡¯s mouth, but thetter turned her head away and rejected it.


    ¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just a business partner. The footage of us appearing together in a hotel is a result of video


    maniption.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Josie hummed aloofly.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter continued, ¡°I¡¯ll send someone to fetch your father here today. Grandpa will be here too, and we¡¯ll


    celebrate the New Year together.¡±


    Josie paused her action and finally engaged in conversation with him. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Mm-hmm. The servants can help to take care of your father.¡± Dexter answered casually.


    Josie uttered with a smile, ¡°Thank you, Dexter.¡±


    Dexter peeled another grape and put it in his mouth. Then, Dexter unexpectedly pulled Josie over and


    pressed his soft lips against hers.


    The sugary grape juice flowed from Dexter¡¯s mouth into Josie¡¯s, enhancing the sweetness of their kiss.


    Josie was forced to ept his kiss, yet Dexter reached to feel her heartbeat again and started


    caressing her more presumptuously.


    Josie attempted to avoid Dexter, but Dexter was relentless in his pursuit. Her voice became. hoarse as


    she muttered, ¡°It¡¯s daytime now.¡±


    However, Dexter refused to stop. He wiped away the juice at the corner of her lips and hummed, ¡°I¡¯ve


    missed you so much the past few days. That woman¡¯spany wants to use me to create a sensation.


    I¡¯m not rted to her in any way.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s daytime now.¡± Josie repeated.


    Dexter had his limits despite his fervent desire, so he calmed down slightly. Nheless, he was


    experienced enough to see through Josie¡¯s superficial rejection.


    The next second, he carried Josie in his arms and walked toward the bed.

 Chapter 247

    Chapter 247


    Chapter 247 A Lively Home


    Josie¡¯s phone fell from her hand onto the ground.


    That afternoon, dark clouds loomed over the city, followed by a raging thunderstorm.


    Being pressed underneath Dexter, Josie could only submit, knowing her resistance was futile.


    Dexter was extraordinarily passionate that day; Josie found his forey irresistible.


    She clung to him tightly and closed her eyes, wallowing in the pleasure.


    It was two hours away from dinner time when it ended.


    Josiey beside Dexter and asked carefully, ¡°What kind of person is your mother?¡±


    After remaining silent briefly, Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and fidgeted with her fingers insouciantly.


    ¡°She¡¯s very dominant.¡±


    Her name was Xanthe Quorn, and she was influential in the business circle.


    Dexter¡¯s father passed away when Dexter was still a child, so Xanthe single-handedly raised him in the


    treacherous Russell family and experienced countless schemes and betrayals.


    Russell Group was once under the control of Yanis and went through a turbulent period. thereafter. It


    was Xanthe who took the lead and leveraged the power of her original family to stabilize the situation.


    Ten yearster, Dexter made a solid return to Russell Group and became the sole authority.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    After that, Xanthe left the Russell family uninhibitedly and dissociated herself from family affairs.


    Many regarded Dexter as their idol for his charismatic leadership, but those who analyzed the situation


    would know that Xanthe yed a vital role in Dexter¡¯s sess.


    Most businesswomen were domineering. However, she didn¡¯t love Dexter and refused to acknowledge


    him as her son.


    Dexter stopped talking about that, while Josie didn¡¯t ask further.


    One could hardly imagine such a woman to be mentally ill.


    Dexter kept his promise and fetched Paul to Mason Garden. Soon, Henry and Marilyn arrived and had


    dinner together after visiting Paul.


    The rare asion allowed Josie to feel the long-lost atmosphere of a family reunion finally.


    The next day, the servants started their duties just as the sun rose.


    The chef was astonished when Josie appeared in the kitchen. ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie gestured for the chef to lower his voice and asked, ¡°What are we having for breakfast today?¡±


    Every morning, the chef would prepare a variety of American breakfasts and Continental breakfasts.


    ¡°I¡¯ll prepare the American breakfast. Can you teach me if I made any mistakes?¡±


    The chef was caught off guard. ¡°Mrs. Russell, I can¡¯t let you prepare


    Josie signaled for him to keep quiet again.


    The chef fell silent, hesitating if he should give in.


    breakfast¡­¡±


    Josie was a skillful cook, and her prepared dishes were visually appealing. The kitchen was filled with


    the aroma of the pastries she baked. Besides, she prepared smoothies with fresh fruits and milk.


    The petitedy bustled around the kitchen, working in an organized manner despite being busy. Even


    the chef was impressed by her cooking skills.


    While praising Josie, the chef thought Dexter had married a decent woman.


    Ten minutester, Dexter woke up and realized Josie was not in the room. He sobered up when he


    reached out his hand and felt the empty bed.


    When he went downstairs, Josie was walking out of the kitchen with a te in her hand. She


    identally scalded herself and rubbed her ear with her fingers.


    When she looked up and saw Dexter staring at her with a frown, she was startled and instinctively hid


    her hand behind her back.


    Dexter strode over and held her hand to examine it. He was relieved after ensuring Josie was not


    injured.


    ¡°When did you wake up?¡± He asked.


    Josie pushed him away and did not answer his question. ¡°I smell from cooking.¡±

 Chapter 248

    Chapter 248


    Chapter 248 Good News


    Dexter looked at her in resignation and was moved when he saw the variety of dishes on the table.


    He reckoned Josie must have sneaked out secretly and didn¡¯t want to be discovered, so she was


    embarrassed now that he bumped into her.


    Dexter attempted to tease her, so he drew close and uttered, ¡°Are you nervous because this is your


    first time spending the New Year at my ce?¡±


    Having been seen through, Josie looked at Dexter sheepishly and mumbled. ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡±


    Dexterughed and embraced Josie in satisfaction.


    Henry had a regr routine and woke up shortly after. He didn¡¯t expect Josie to be awake this early


    and invited her to sit with him.


    Dexter sat down and said, ¡°Grandpa, Jo woke up early and made all these.¡±


    Henry was surprised. ¡°That¡¯s impressive! Let me give it a taste.¡±


    ¡°I hope you like them,¡± Josie answered shyly.


    The next few days, Josie and the servants decorated the vi with fresh flowers, bringing life to Mason


    Garden. While she was bustling around, Dexter and Henry sat in the yard and had tea.


    Henry smiled, ¡°Dex, I¡¯m so happy to see you marrying a wife like Jo.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Grandpa¡­¡±


    ¡°The past has passed. You should cherish the present and let go of Leanne¡¯s matter, alright?¡± Henry


    exhorted seriously while looking into Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were filled withplicated emotions as he gazed at Josie, who was plucking flowers in


    the yard.


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    At ten o¡¯clock that night, the news press and mediapanies under Russell Group received a set of


    pictures simultaneously. The picture captured Dexter and Josie in Mason Garden, but their faces were


    not revealed.


    The picture was captured while Josie was working on the balcony. Dexter came out to the balcony and


    acted intimately with Josie. Then, they seemed to have an argument, which made Josie stand up and


    leave, but Dexter quickly hugged her fawningly.


    The editors were bbergasted. They knew Mason Garden was heavily guarded, so the paparazzi


    must have been given permission to be able to capture these pictures. Although Dexter was the


    conglomerate¡¯s president, the editors reckoned the pictures would not be suppressed. It was even


    possible that they were deliberately released!


    Dexter¡¯s assistants received countless inquiry calls that night as the recipients¡¯ curiosity brewed. They


    acknowledged that the woman in the picture was Dexter¡¯s official girlfriend and allowed the media


    The embellished pictures and content caused a greatmotion after they were released.


    Many were convinced that the news couldn¡¯t be fabricated. Since the pictures were released to openly,


    along with the PR statement, they guessed the owner of Russell Group was getting married soon.


    When Dexter¡¯s assistant boldly asked him if Josie would be upset at how he unterally announced


    their rtionship to the public, he smiled mysteriously and answered, ¡°She won¡¯t know.¡±


    Indeed, Josie rarely surfed the Inte and wouldn¡¯t browse the gossip news even when she needed to


    ess the Inte for work purposes. She wasn¡¯t someone who was interested in buzzes, which was


    beneficial because the Inte could be filled with maliciousments from all kinds of people. It


    wasn¡¯t a suitable environment for her.


    However, Dexter overlooked that Josie¡¯s friends would also browse the Inte.


    ¡°Oh my goodness, Jo! You won¡¯t believe what I saw on the news today!¡± Alice eximed on the phone.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I saw news of Mr. Russell dating someone! The girl in the picture looks like you!¡±


    Josie nearly choked on the apple she was munching. ¡°Stop the nonsense¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not lying! Let me send it to you. The statements are exactly the same. All mediapanies under


    Russell Group seem to have gone all out!¡±


    Josie checked herptop and realized the news was already in the headlines.


    Rendered speechless, she couldn¡¯t question Dexter because he was not home yet. Does this,


    announce our rtionship to the public?!

 Chapter 249

    Chapter 249


    Chapter 249 New Year¡¯s Eve


    Mason Garden was filled with a festive mood on New Year¡¯s Eve.


    Josie dragged Dexter along early in the morning to hang up some decorations at the entrance. Dexter


    was tall and could easily put them up. He turned to ask Josie if the angle was appropriate.


    Josie observed carefully and said, ¡°Hmm.. Slightly to the left. Yeah, yeah. Looks good now¡±


    Marilyn, who was watering the nts, said to Henry with a wide grin. ¡°Dex has never helped to


    decorate the house all these years. Only Jo could persuade him.¡±


    Dexterined, ¡°Ms. Marilyn, I was busy the past few years. You make it sound like I¡¯mzy¡±


    That¡¯s true. When have you not been busy? I¡¯m d that Jo is around this year. Marilyn looked at Jo


    and gave her a thumbs up.


    Josie blushed in embarrassment. Henry beckoned her over. ¡°Come here, Jo. This is my new year¡¯s gift


    to you. Keep it


    It was an envelope filled with a pile of cash. Josie rejected it immediately. ¡°I can¡¯t ept it, Grandpa.


    I¡¯m a working adult now, so I shouldn¡¯t receive this money from you.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Henry insisted and forcefully shoved the envelope into Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°That¡¯s not an issue at


    all. No matter how old you are, you¡¯re still a child to me. Moreover, you are my new granddaughter-in-


    law. Just take it as my blessing to you.¡±


    Josie looked at Dexter, who nodded, signaling her to ept it.


    Later, when there were only two of them, Josie whispered, ¡°That¡¯s too much money. I should return it to


    you.¡±


    Dexter chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s a gift from Grandpa. You may keep it for yourself.¡±


    ¡°Alright, then. Since you said so, I shall take it.¡± Upon perceiving Dexter¡¯s nomittal stance, Josie


    was assured and kept the envelope away.


    After breakfast, Josie went to check in on Paul. Paul was taken good care of by the servants, who were


    more dedicated than the caretakers. Not only that, she could visit him whenever she wanted. So, she


    was extremely grateful to Dexter for that.


    ¡°Dad, can you feel it? The Russells treat me well. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡± Sitting beside the bed, Josie


    held Paul¡¯s hand and mumbled, ¡°Please wake up soon. Dexter¡¯s grandpa is old and lonely. If you


    regain consciousness, he must be d to have someone to chat with. Last time, he asked me what


    your upation was before you fell ill. I told him proudly that you were a great doctor who has served


    the poor and sick for many years.¡±


    ¡°By the way, you might not know that Dexter¡¯s father passed away long ago. Dexter is a cold person.


    How great it would be if you could show care to him as a fatherly figure.¡±


    Josie continued talking to Paul until a servant came to knock on the door. ¡°Mrs. Russell, the car is


    ready. It¡¯s time to go.¡±


    By tradition, the Russell family would head to the ancestral hall for ancestral worship on New Year¡¯s


    Eve. Josie¡¯s identity as Dexter¡¯s wife was no longer a secret, so she would naturally have to attend the


    event.


    ¡°Coming.¡± Josie left the room and did not notice Paul¡¯s finger move.


    She returned to her room to pick a suitable outfit. Then, she wore the bracelet Henry gave her. The


    other family members might not readily acknowledge her as the new daughter-inw. As such, the


    bracelet. could help to make her presence known.


    During the two-hour journey, Dexter spoke rapidly to inform Josie about the family¡¯s history and its


    members to prepare her mind so that Josie could handle the situation even if he were absent.


    He made a clear statement. ¡°Josie, remembering is not enough, but I need you to act it out.¡±


    Josie understood the deep meaning and importance of Dexter¡¯s exhortation.


    Dexter rubbed the ring on his finger until he could feel its warmth. He was gradually getting used to


    wearing a ring.

 Chapter 250

    Chapter 250


    Chapter 250 Rituals


    The car made a turn Josie could no longer recognize the road. All she knew was that the Russell


    family¡¯s memorial hall was a well-kept secret in Wavery.


    The tires crunched over the dried leaves on the ground as the vehicle came to a stop.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Follow me,¡± Dexter said in a low voice.


    As Josie stepped out of the car, the first thing that struck her was not the extravagance of the ce but


    the exquisiteness. There were multiplepounds with buildings, fusions of old and modern. The area


    was spacious and held many people around it. Yet it was not unpleasant to the eyes as everything was


    meticulously designed.


    The ce was brimming with history.


    Dexter hung his coat over his arm, leading the group with wide strides. Those that passed by him


    greeted him with respect. He was dressed in a ck shirt. As he unbuttoned a couple of the sapphire


    buttons near his neck with one hand, the air around him seemed imposing.


    Josie followed him and was surprised no one looked or paid attention to her.


    Her impression of the ce improved.


    Not long after, a man that seemed to be a butler came out to report to Dexter. ¡°You¡¯re back, Mr. Dexter.


    Mr. Yanis is waiting for you and your wife up ahead.¡±


    Dexter nodded.


    The butler greeted Josie with a smile as she passed by.


    Dexter turned back to her with an open palm as they headed up the stairs. ¡°Here.¡±


    The Russell family¡¯s power was shared out. The man the butler had mentioned was one of them with


    power.


    Yanis Russell.


    Dexter mentioned the man in the car. He was the director of Russell Group. When Dexter defeated


    him. and took over, Yanis took the back seat and stayed at the residence in a life of retirement.


    Josie thought that as a Russell who had dealt with Dexter, he would be unapproachable.


    But he was not.


    Yanis had a gentle appearance. He wore in clothes with a pair of canvas shoes. He seemed to be in


    his fifties or sixties but was sprightly.


    Yanis smiled and got up from his seat when he saw them. Dexter gestured for him to stay put. ¡°Please


    sit,


    Uncle.¡±


    Yanis gestured toward the steaming cups of tea on the table.


    Dexter wrapped his arm around Josie¡¯s waist, seemingly on alert. Yet a smile was seen on his face. Jo,


    mert Uncle Yamis¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you.¡±


    Yanis rose from his seat His eyes were smiling Tve heard good things of you from Father¡¯Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    They took their seats, and Yanis turned his attention to Josie. He did not mention her family or job as


    though he was aware. He even told her to befortable as it was fate to be family.


    Josie felt touched by the interaction. He seemed miles apart from the cruel man Dexter had mentioned.


    She stole a nce at Dexter. He sipped his tea elegantly without showing any emotions.


    The room was gradually filled soon after they had arrived.


    A well-mannered man had people move a disy case to the room. Yanis introduced. ¡°Wyatt, meet


    Josie.¡±


    Josie recalled what she knew. Wyatt was Yanis¡¯ only son who was studying at a university.


    The young man smiled while holding out his hand. ¡°Pleased to meet you. I¡¯m Wyatt. Nice of you to


    visit.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good to meet you, Wyatt.¡±


    Josie noticed that despite the pleasantries, there was a hint of stiffness as he did not ept her as a


    part of the family.


    Everyone in the room seemed amiable on the surface.


    ¡°You¡¯re cold, Dexter. How can you only tell us you¡¯re married half a yearter?¡± Wyatt smiled. ¡°I thought


    it was weird you hadn¡¯t visited me for a while. Turns out it¡¯s because of your wifey at home.¡±

 Chapter 251

    Chapter 251


    Chapter 251 A Wee Gift


    Wyatt¡¯s remark showed two things. One was that Dexter treated his younger brother well.


    And that Wyatt¡¯s ¡®wifey¡¯ did not have a positive connotation to it.


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand tightly. The smile on his lips did not reach his eyes. ¡°Now that I¡¯ve seen you,


    I¡¯ll have to make spot checks on your results.¡±


    Wyatt scrunched his face. ¡°You¡¯re annoying.¡±


    The room was filled withughter.


    Wyattughed and suddenly changed the topic. ¡°Josie, I heard you graduated from Wavery


    University?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re my senior.¡± His canine teeth gleamed through his smile. I¡¯m a fourth year there. We can


    often


    meet from now on.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    At a loss for words, Josie smiled.


    After all, smiling as a response was a safe bet most of the time.


    Yanis interrupted the conversation and instructed the disy cases to be opened. A stunning array of


    bracelets were ced within..


    They were made of emerald.


    Wyatt remarked, ¡°Dad ordered this collection from Colombia and had them shipped it here within one


    day.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Yanis exined. ¡°It¡¯s Josie¡¯s first time here. I can¡¯t let you leave empty-handed. Choose whichever you


    like. There¡¯s no need to be shy.¡±


    Josie was unfamiliar with the gemstone but could see they were costly. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring any gifts with me.


    How can I ept these?¡±


    Her gaze drifted toward Dexter. He rose from his seat and held her hand. He scanned through the


    disy case with a sharp look. ¡°This is a small token of a gift from Uncle Yanis. Just ept it.¡±


    He picked out a beautiful bracelet and put it on her wrist.


    For one moment, a look of disdain gleamed from his eyes.


    With his action, all in the room saw the brightening re from the jade bracelet on her wrist.


    Some were astonished.


    It finally sank in that the eldest son in the family had married.


    After that, Josie met numerous other elders in the family. They had distinguishing features, but none


    left at deep impression as Yanis did.


    The bracelet felt heavy.


    The others smiled at her, but all she felt was the dead weight. Dexter¡¯s words kept reappearing in her


    mind. Tread lightly. Do not trust anyone.


    Suddenly, she realized that with Dexter¡¯s guidance, she easily managed to converse with the family


    members.


    As Yanis and Dexter chatted about the matters within the family, he asionally brought up topics


    about business unreservedly. Dexter was amiable through it all, unlike his actual emotions.


    When all the family members had arrived, after a flurry of small talk, they lined up and headed toward


    the family estate energetically.


    Dexter was at the front with a nervous Josie next to him.


    Years ago, the family had shares in Russell Group until Dexter came on the scene and took it all back.


    Many of them were unwaged. Now that thepany was doing well, they were eyeing and hoping to


    get a


    share.


    Even with all of the ttery in the world, none of them couldpete with Wyatt, who threw out a


    request carelessly. ¡°Dexter, I need to look for a ce for my internship. Can you get me into Russell.


    Group?¡±


    Dexter did not refuse and teased him. ¡°You haven¡¯t shown me your results for this semester.¡±


    Wyatt smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll bring it to you right away.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Dexter replied.


    The family estate wasrge with cumbersome rituals. Josie imitated them blindly and managed to keep


    up. As she bowed with everyone else, she finally felt that she was a part of the family. One that would


    not be easily removed from the family.

 Chapter 252

    Chapter 252


    Chapter 252 You Must Leave


    The ceremony hade to an end, and Josie¡¯s phone had been buzzing incessantly in her pocket.


    However, given the solemn ambiance, she opted to ignore the pesky buzzing.


    Noticing her uneasiness when nobody was looking. Dexter seized the opportunity and signaled for the


    servant to apany Josie out. Then, he whispered, ¡°Can you handle it on your own?¡±


    Nodding her head, Josie muttered. Isn¡¯t he the one who insisted on taking charge no matter how


    impossible the situation may be?


    Upon leaving the door. Josie wasted no time checking her phone.


    To her surprise, all the messages were from Arnold. She dialed his number and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?


    Did something happen?¡±


    The voice on the other end sounded stern. ¡°Did you follow Dexter and return to the Russell family


    estate?¡±


    Josie was caught off guard by the question, ¡°How did you know? Did you bug me or something?¡±


    However, Arnold wasn¡¯t in a yful mood and said authoritatively. ¡°You must leave there today. I¡¯m not


    joking.


    Arnold¡¯s sudden instruction left Josie puzzled, ¡°Why? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    In fact, Dexter had already assured her earlier that once the ceremony was over, they would leave and


    go home to have dinner with Henry.


    Why did Arnold suddenly insist she leaves the Russell family estate?


    Arnold didn¡¯t exin, ¡°Just do as I say, Josie. Remember, before bing Dexter¡¯s wife, you were


    yourself first.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯tprehend Arnold¡¯s arbitrary behavior. Before she could delve deeper, he hung up the


    phone.


    The servant led Josie to a secluded yet beautifully decorated courtyard.


    Politely dismissing the servant, Josie took a seat on a stone bench in front of the courtyard, taking a


    moment to collect herself.


    Today marked Josie¡¯s first official meet-and-greet with the Russell family. Despite the friendly and kind.


    treatment she received, she couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of being an outsider deep down.


    Perhaps growing up in a regr family made her feel unworthy of being Dexter¡¯s partner and a


    member of the esteemed Russell family.


    Josie tried her best to emte the poise of Dexter and Wyatt, but somehow, she still came across as


    reserved. To put it bluntly, she was inexperienced and unpolished.


    A passage from Eileen Chang¡¯s ¡®Love in a Fallen City¡¯ sprang to her mind, ¡®A woman who grew up in


    the slums, stumbling upon a few more books, naively believed she could stand on equal footing with


    others. But life is always a ry race, and we foolishly treated it as a 100-meter sprint. Both you and I


    are mere


    mortals, and very few can break free from the shackles of their social ss, especially women. Love


    pales in significance when faced with marriage.


    Josie hadn¡¯t quite grasped its significance before this. But now, she fully understood as she saw herself


    living out the story in the book.


    Josie let out a sigh, feeling lost.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Shortly after, Dexter returned to see Josie boiling water in the kitchen.


    Dexter ced a stack of papers on the table. Josie figured it must be the report card Wyatt had given


    Dexter.


    Wyatt had made a joke, but it appeared that Dexter had taken it seriously. His determination to join the


    Russell Group was unmistakable.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think you might be getting yourself into more than you bargained for?¡± Josie asked, raising


    an eyebrow.


    As she held a ss, preparing to fill it up with hot water, the man gently took it from her, pouring and


    blowing on it to cool it down before bringing it near her lips.


    ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case, I¡¯m pretty confident I can handle it too,¡± Dexter finally revealed a tender


    expression, showing a softer side that went beyond his usual no-nonsense demeanor.


    Josie was taken aback by his unexpected tenderness. She had a flurry of questions she wanted to ask


    but didn¡¯t know where to begin.


    Dexter brought the cup to her lips as the hot water had cooled a bit, feeding her slowly as if feeding a


    child.


    He said, ¡°Some people would delude themselves into thinking they haveplete control when they


    get a taste of power.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not until they stumble that they truly learn their lesson.¡±


    Dexter wiped the water from the corner of her lips and removed a bangle from her wrist, leaving only


    the one Henry had given her.


    In an indifferent tone, he said, ¡°This bangle is worth a million.¡±


    Josie was shocked by his revtion.


    He casually tossed the million-dor bangle onto the table, saying, ¡°Well, none of us wear it anyway.¡±


    ¡°What would you like to cat?¡± It was lunchtime, and Dexter opened the pantry while asking.

 Chapter 253

    Chapter 253


    Chapter 253 Didn¡¯t You Say You¡¯re Hungry?


    Josie found herself enveloped in his arms, her head resting against his impably chiseled jawline.


    His warm breath encircled her, offeringfort in this foreign ce.


    Dexter¡¯s embrace radiated a sense of authority, as if silently assuring her he would be her protector.


    She need not worry about anything.


    The pantry was stocked with an array of food. Josie nibbled on her lip as she contemted her options.


    ¡°How about Bolognese meatballs?¡± As she was tiptoeing to fetch something from the shelves, she


    proposed while setting a can of Bolognese sauce on the pristine white marble countertop.


    Dexter grabbed a few more ingredients, ran them under the water, and mischievously tapped her


    bosom. ¡°Alright, you can go now. I¡¯ll be finished soon.¡±


    Uh, this guy¡­


    Josie red at him, her cheeks flushed with annoyance and abashment.


    He winked and teased. ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    Amused by his cheeky response, Josie muttered, ¡°Rascal!¡±


    She left the kitchen and noticed the papers


    ¡°Mhm.¡±


    the table. She asked, ¡°Mind if I take a peek?¡±


    It was just an ordinary resume, with Wyatt¡¯s ID photo attached. The Russell family certainly had good


    genes; they managed to look good even in the typically awkward ID photos. Josie ced it back on the


    table as there wasn¡¯t much informative content in the resume.


    Then she turned around and saw Dexter cuttin at ease as if he belonged there.


    tomatoes. The tall man stood in the kitchen,pletely


    Actually, Dexter had always been skilled in cooking. Although it was a rare urrence, he had cooked


    for her multiple times in the past.


    But now, back at Russell family estate¡­ If his family or servants discovered that the young master was


    cooking for her, would they hold it against her?


    Josie¡¯s eyes flickered with conflicted emotions, and she approached him, skillfully cracking an egg into


    a bowl.


    Dexter nced at her and yfully fed her a taste of the bolognese sauce, asking. ¡°Want to lend a


    hand?¡±


    Josie enjoyed the sweet and savory taste. She casually digressed, ¡°What about Wyatt¡­ Has he ever


    seen me before?¡±


    Dexter arched an eyebrow and fed her another spoonful, replying, ¡°Perhaps not. Our family is quite


    traditional. He had minimal interaction with the outside world before graduating college.¡±


    It dawned on Josie that Wyatt had been sheltered in an ivory tower, utterly oblivious to the outside


    world.


    She couldn¡¯t fathom how the Russell family could be so strict and rigid with their sons. Unable to


    contain her impression, she blurted out, ¡°Gosh. How backward and primitive the thinking!¡±


    ¡°Primitive?¡± Dexter smirked, lightly tapping her delicate nose. ¡°You¡¯re so innocent.¡±


    Tracing his finger along her lips, he paused for a moment.


    There was a stain of Bolognese sauce on her lip, its vibrant red color inviting him to taste it, and her


    lips¡­ Josie was unaware of the intense and desperate flicker in the man¡¯s eyes. She was distracted by


    the pot of Bolognese sauce left on the countertop. Quietly, she reached out her hand, attempting to


    sneak a¡­


    But, caught in the act! Josie¡¯s wrist was swiftly seized against her back while Dexter¡¯s lips descended


    upon


    hers.


    It wasn¡¯t a fiery and passionate kiss. But a teasing, fleeting, and tender peck that made Josie burst into


    laughter as she tried to evade his yful advances, ¡°Hey! I¡¯m hungry!¡±


    Unbeknownst to Josie, her innocent remark about hunger triggered a chain reaction she wasn¡¯t


    unprepared for.


    In her mind, it was an explicit statement on her empty stomach, not about sexual intimacy. But in an


    instant, Josie found herself caught in a passionate exchange of kisses as she couldn¡¯t resist the


    temptation. With a dominating, heart-stopping deep kiss, Dexter explored every nook and cranny of her


    mouth, their tongues entwined in a tight embrace.


    Josie was swept away by the intensity of his breath, enveloping her with a powerful presence.


    As Dexter gently sucked the remnants of pasta sauce from around her lips, he couldn¡¯t help but agree


    that it had a delightful blend of sweetness and savory vors.


    A chuckle escaped him, causing the vibrations in his chest to reverberate through Josie¡¯s body, leaving


    her trembling in his arms.


    A sense of impending chaos overwhelmed Josie as she realized things were spiraling beyond her


    control. It was evident that Dexter had no intentions of holding back. Without hesitation, he hoisted her


    up by the waist and gently settled her onto the sofa outside.


    The midday sun zed above; it was lunchtime.


    Dexter¡¯s audacious behavior caught Josie off guard. She never anticipated such audacity in this


    setting¡­


    Although she wanted to decline, there was an intense longing in his eyes. Dexter teased, ¡°Didn¡¯t you


    say you were hungry?¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.

 Chapter 254

    Chapter 254


    Chapter 254 Her Tearful Eyes


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe his audacity¡­


    She never expected Dexter to be so audacious and shameless. With no choice, she reluctantly allowed


    him to have his way. And that was her second blunder. By the time they finally untangled, dusk was


    upon


    them.


    Exhausted, Josie let him assist in cleaning up and getting dressed. Finally, she nestled into his arms,


    feeling drowsy and no longer concerned about her hunger, ¡°I want some water.¡±


    Then, a ss of cool water was brought to her lips in no time, quenching her dry throat and providing


    much-needed relief.


    She heard the spirited man ask in a low voice, ¡°Are you still hungry?¡±


    In her groggy state, Josie weakly declined, ¡°No, let me rest for a while, okay?¡±


    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll head home after you¡¯ve had some rest.¡± Dexter chuckled, satisfied with her response. In a


    better mood, he carried her back to bed. Both of them were weary from the day¡¯s events, so they


    simply tidied up and drifted off to sleep together.


    The room temperature wasfortable, but Josie, feeling a bit warm, kicked off the nket. Dexter


    frowned. After a while, she began to feel cold and instinctively snuggled closer to the source of warmth,


    wrapping her arms around him.


    Eventually, Josie drifted into a deep slumber.


    As Dexter observed her series of actions, his furrowed brows finally rxed. He tenderly studied her


    rosy cheeks and longshes in the soft glow of the bedsidemp. The more he looked, the stronger the


    fluttering in his heart became. He nced at the rings adorning their fingers and felt a subtle buzz in his


    chest.


    He felt a sense of belonging and security.


    That night, Dexter had a dream that was a reality he had lived before. He and Josie had crossed paths


    in the past. In the year he had just taken over Russell Group, he had a group of loyal employees who


    worked tirelessly alongside him.


    After years of hard work, Calvin and some of the employees insisted on throwing a celebration for him.


    However, they all got drunk, and Dexter had to arrange transport for them and make sure they got


    home. safely.


    After sending them back to their ce, he leaned against the car and lit a cigarette, gazing at the stars.


    It was the first time in his life that he felt a sense of disorientation.


    He had always considered himself rational with clear goals, but now he felt lost¡­ Dexter¡¯s grandfather


    had always steered him towards his future path but never once asked if there was anything he truly


    wanted for himself.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The sight of the ever-changing city filled him with a growing weariness. It was a night unlike any other


    when he found himself grappling with uncertainty and questioning the very path he had chosen to


    tread.


    Not far away, a girl stood at a telephone booth, making a call. She was in tears, trying to speak loudly


    to overpower her sobs. Every word she uttered resonated in his ears.


    Through her words, Dexter learned of her father¡¯s illness and the family¡¯s financial struggles. Her


    predicament mirrored the mundane challenges of everyday life, simr to the struggles that weighed on


    every individual, seemingly insurmountable at times.


    Her tear-stained face and the fallen receiver on the ground revealed the depth of her sorrow. She made


    a valiant effort topose herself, attempting to pick up the receiver but struggling to rise from her


    crouched position.


    In that poignant moment, Dexter was ovee with an intense desire to reach out and offer sce,


    even if it was just a fewforting words. The sight of her anguish stirred a profound concern within


    him as if he feared she might suffocate and fade away in the very next breath.


    Witnessing her anguish made him realize the insignificance of his own momentary confusion.


    Drawing closer to her, he suddenly halted in his tracks. It struck him that she was actually an employee


    at the Russell Group, making this encounter outside their usual workce quite unexpected.


    ¨C


    Fast forward to the present. Ever since their marriage, Dexter had developed a habit of studying her


    intently. Josie¡¯s eyes possessed remarkable rity and purity. In that very instant, a realization washed


    over him he never wanted to witness her tears again.


    Josie had barely drifted off when she opened her eyes to find Dexter lost in thought, his her. Startled,


    she inquired, ¡°When did you wake up?¡±


    ¡°Did you get enough rest?¡± Dexter straightened her clothes. ¡°Let¡¯s head back now. Grandpa called and


    said dinner¡¯s ready.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±

 Chapter 255

    Chapter 255


    Chapter 255 She¡¯s Back


    The day was slowly transitioning into the evening, and fireworks were already lighting up the sky in the


    distance, creating a festive atmosphere.


    Wyatt had been waiting by the door for who knows how long. When he saw Dexter and Josie, he said,


    ¡°Hey, Dex. Jo, can¡¯t you guys stay a few more days? It¡¯s a shame you onlye back a couple of


    times a year. Dad would love it if you could stay longer before leaving again.¡±


    Locking eyes with Josie, Dexter nodded with a smile. ¡°We¡¯d stay longer if we could, Wyatt, but you


    know the deal. Grandpa¡¯s expecting my report, and we can¡¯t keep him waiting. Luckily, with everyone


    here keeping an eye on the family estate, we can rest a little easier.¡°


    Wyatt didn¡¯t say anything more after that.


    They exited the premises in thepany of a few other visitors. Josie quickly checked her phone,


    finding nothing unexpected. Their car, parked at the entrance, remained unharmed. She didn¡¯t


    understand why Arnold had called on such short notice, insisting she leaves immediately after the


    ceremony.


    Josie felt the urge to share this with Dexter, but knowing his ongoing issues with Arnold and his dislike


    for hermunicating with him, she kept the information to herself.


    Fortunately, it didn¡¯t seem like a big deal for now.


    Yanis and a few others gathered at the door, seeing them off.


    Politely, Yanis said to Josic, ¡°We probably won¡¯t see each other until Christmas. Take care until then.¡±


    Josie smiled, nodding, and held onto Dexter¡¯s arm, getting ready to step into the car.


    Just as the driver opened the car door, a gray Lincoln suddenly appeared, driving in the opposite


    direction with its high beams on. Everyone¡¯s attention turned to the unexpected vehicle, momentarily


    freezing them in their tracks.


    The ceremony was done and dusted. There shouldn¡¯t be anyone else showing up now.


    Who could it be?


    Dexter squinted his eyes, instinctively tightening his grip on Josie¡¯s wrist.


    The approaching Lincoln pulled up right behind his Mercedez AMG G 63. Then, the driver stepped out


    and opened the backseat door. Before they could catch a glimpse of the person¡¯s face, a voice said,


    ¡°No matter how hard I tried to rush, I still ended up beingte.¡±


    It was a vibrant woman¡¯s voice, not young but bursting with life.


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She instinctively turned to look at the man by her side and saw his face


    cloud over as he fixed his gaze on the woman.


    She was a middle-aged woman, seemingly advanced in years, yet her attire was meticulous. She wore


    a vintage dress with a light yellow mink coat gracefully draping over it, emanating an aura of elegance.


    She leisurely removed her sunsses and nced at the crowd, noting their surprised expressions,


    which


    pleased her greatly.


    Someone eximed, and Wyatt even stepped forward and called, ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t discern Dexter¡¯s expression as he immediately assumed a protective stance, pulling her


    behind him.


    ¡°Xanthe? Why did youe back?¡± Yanis was the first to respond, his hand trembling even with the


    support of a cane.


    Xanthe? She¡¯s Xanthe Quorn?


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in realization. Just as she had imagined, this woman had amanding


    presence. As she approached, the intensity in her eyes mirrored Dexter¡¯s.


    So¡­ Dexter¡¯s mother wasn¡¯t gone; she was still alive.


    Josie had always assumed that he refrained from discussing his mother because she had passed


    away.


    Little did she know, Xanthe was not only alive but also thriving.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Hey bro, seems like I¡¯m not weed here.¡± Xanthe carried herself with poise. She stood before


    Dexter, maintaining an intense gaze while conversing with others.


    ¡°When did youe back?¡±


    ¡°Just got off the ne. Since it¡¯s the New Year, I figured I should swing by and visit the family.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, and his gaze turned away. Towering over Xanthe, he put her at an unexpected


    disadvantage.


    ¡°And who¡¯s this?¡± Finally, Xanthe¡¯s attention fell upon the timid and petite woman standing behind him.

 Chapter 256

    Chapter 256


    Chapter 256 My Mother Died Early


    Josie unconsciously curled her toes, feeling exposed under the woman¡¯s prating gaze.


    ¡°We should go now. Grandpa¡¯s waiting for us at home,¡± Dexter said with indifference. He took hold of


    Josie¡¯s hand and guided her towards the car.


    Just as he was about to step inside, Xanthe said, ¡°Dexter, I just got back. Will you join me in paying


    respects to your father?¡±


    A hush fell over the crowd.


    Dexter, one foot already in the car, paused and straightened his posture. He responded with a


    detached tone, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s pupils dted, the creases around her eyes deepening. ¡°I¡¯m your mother.¡±


    ¡°Mother? My mother passed away long ago, he retorted.


    His remark left some people gasping in shock.


    Josie held her breath, witnessing their intense confrontation.


    Suddenly, Xanthe raised her hand and pped Dexter across the face.


    A sharp sound filled the air as his head turned from the impact. Startled, Josie quickly rushed out of the


    car and shielded him, admonishing Xanthe, ¡°What have you done?¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s furious gaze shifted to her. ¡°Who do you think you are? It¡¯s not your ce to interfere while


    I¡¯m teaching my son a lesson.¡±


    Josie¡¯s legs trembled in front of the authoritative Xanthe. Summoning her courage, she wanted to


    protect Dexter. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear him say that his mother had passed away long ago?!¡±


    Xanthe let out a furious chuckle. Her frail figure made her seem delicate, as if a gust of wind could


    knock her down. She nced at the wedding rings on their fingers. ¡°Ah, so you¡¯re the girl he had


    chosen to marry.¡±


    Josie wanted to say something, but the words failed to escape her lips.


    ¡°Just as expected, a boring peasant.¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s intense gaze remained fixed on Dexter as she challenged, ¡°Are you really just going to stand


    there and let this woman fight your battles?¡±


    Licking the blood at the corner of his lips, he exuded intense aggression. Once again, he pulled Josie


    protectively behind him. ¡°Go ahead and get in the car.¡±


    Josie hesitated, anxious about what might unfold.


    Dexter called for his bodyguards. Josie had no choice but to enter the car reluctantly. The door closed,


    and the driver locked it. She was confined inside, only able to catch glimpses of Dexter reentering the


    Russell family estate, closely followed by Xanthe.


    They exchanged words, but their voices were drowned out.


    Josie could feel her heart pounding in her chest.


    Why did Xanthe choose this moment toe back? What does she want? Why did Dexter seem


    trapped, refuse to face her, yet unable to confront her?


    Is it because of me? Josie couldn¡¯t help wondering.


    After waiting for about half an hour, with no sign of Dexter and the othersing out from the family


    estate, just as Josie was about to persuade the driver to let her out, a servant approached the car and


    ryed a message to the driver.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell instructed me to take you back to Mason Garden first,¡± the driver informed as


    he started the car engine.


    ¡°No¡­ why? What about him?¡± Josie¡¯s words came out jumbled, but she couldn¡¯t contain her confusion.


    The driver had no answer to her questions.


    On New Year¡¯s Eve, the city streets were filled with cars adorned with lights and the joy of festivities in


    every household, including Mason Garden. But without Henry by her side, the special New Year¡¯s


    atmosphere seemed iplete, and its charm faded somehow.


    Henry seemed to sense her distress and gestured for Josie to sit. ¡°Come, let¡¯s eat first. Marilyn and


    Julie have been busy preparing your favorite dishes all day.¡±


    Josie forced a smile, not wanting to show her dejection in front of Henry, but her mind was elsewhere.


    Looking at Henry, she could also see the worry etched on his face.


    Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Facing the empty dining table, she couldn¡¯t resist asking. ¡°Grandpa, what happened?¡±


    Henry let out a sigh, filled with regret. ¡°I had hoped we could have a proper family dinner, but it seems


    that won¡¯t be happening¡­¡±


    Witnessing his disappointment, Josie felt a sense of unease and called for the servants. ¡°Please put


    away the dishes for now. We¡¯ll reheat them when Mr. Russell returns, and we can all eat togetherter.¡±

 Chapter 257

    Chapter 257


    Chapter 257 His Mother¡¯s Past


    Knowing Dexter, Josie was confident he woulde rushing back no matter what.


    But Henry waved his hand, saying, ¡°Jo,e and keep mepany in the courtyard.¡±


    Josie obliged with a pleasant smile.


    The ground was littered with scraps of firecracker paper, remnants of the festive celebrations. The red


    debris of spent firecrackers seemed strangely forlorn at that moment.


    Henry settled into his armchair, and Josie was concerned he might feel cold, so she ced a thick


    nket on hisp. She poured herself some Earl Grey tea and set it before her. ¡°Did you see Dex¡¯s


    mother today?¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s face floated into Josie¡¯s mind at Henry¡¯s prompt. ¡°Um¡­ she doesn¡¯t seem easy to get along


    with.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    He smiled and took a sip of his tea. ¡°Thest time I saw her was when Dex was seven years old.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°Hasn¡¯t shee back all these years?¡±


    Henry shook his head. ¡°She can¡¯t stand the sight of the son she brought into the world simply because


    she mes the Russell family for ruining her life. After Dex¡¯s father died, the Russell family endured a


    tumultuous phase. Without her restoring stability, we might not have the Dex we know today. That¡¯s


    why I¡¯ve chosen to ignore all the decisions she¡¯s made.¡±


    Josie probed cautiously, ¡°Why does she hate¡­?


    Grant Russell, Dexter¡¯s father, was the youngest son of his father¡¯s second wife. Despite that, Grant


    was groomed extensively from a young age and disyed immense potential. He battled his way


    through the obstacles presented by his half-siblings, leaving everyone else filled with envy and


    resentment.


    In that particr year, Grant entered into a marriage alliance with Xanthe, the daughter of the


    prominent Quorn family. It wasn¡¯t just some business arrangement; Grant bore romantic feelings for


    her. Unfortunately, Xanthe¡¯s heart belonged to someone else. Consumed by obsession, Grant went to


    extreme lengths to drive Xanthe¡¯s lover out of Wavery, plunging their marriage into despair and


    confinement.


    ¡°I always knew she wasn¡¯t meant to be a part of the Russell family. So, I took Dex with me and let her


    go. Maybe they crossed paths a few times as Dex grew up, but I never saw her again.¡±


    Josie nodded, her understanding bing clearer. She had been grappling with conflicting emotions


    and countless questions, but all she managed to say was, ¡°Grandpa, was Dexter not happy when he


    was a child?¡±


    Henry looked at her with a smile tinged with relief and chuckled, ¡°He wasn¡¯t just unhappy; he was


    downright miserable. But thankfully, there was a girl who was there for him during those years, and she


    made it bearable.¡±


    The girl¡­ Josie remembered. ¡°Is that¡­ girl named Leanne?¡±


    The girl who meant so much to Dexter.


    ¡°Yes, without her, we wouldn¡¯t have the Dexter we know today.¡±


    No wonder Dexter held such a profound attachment to her. There was a bond between them. That girl


    had saved him¡­.


    Lost in thought, Josie felt a gentle pat on her hand, marked by the passage of time, ¡°And I believe that


    you¡¯re the pinnacle of Dex¡¯s life, both now and in the future.¡±

 Chapter 258

    Chapter 258


    Chapter 258 Getting a Bit Too Involved


    Josie was taken aback and touched by the magnitude of trust ced upon her. With a shake of her


    head, she replied, ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m honored that you think so highly of me.¡±


    Henry responded with a chuckle, refraining from boasting about his role in raising Dexter or prolonging


    the discussion.


    With the information gleaned from Henry, Josie now had a deeper understanding of Xanthe¡¯s


    background.


    She searched the Quorn family in Wavery on her phone and was taken aback by what she found.


    Despite the decline of this century-old family, they still wielded significant influence in Wavery. It made


    sense why the Russell family was wary of Xanthe¡¯s maternal family. Could this be the reason behind


    Dexter¡¯s recentpromise?


    Josie sat curled up on the sofa, her gaze fixed on the clock ticking towards eleven o¡¯clock. Dexter had


    yet to return, leaving her in a state of uncertainty.


    After contemting for some time, she dialed Arnold¡¯s number. After half a minute of ringing, he


    answered in a breathless and irritated tone. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Josie¡¯s brow furrowed as she questioned him, ¡°What are you up to?¡±


    It seemed like Arnold was in thepany of a woman. Josie overheard him asking the woman to leave


    as he moved to a quieter corner. With amusement and irritation, he quipped, ¡°I¡¯m a lonely bachelor.


    What else am I supposed to do on New Year¡¯s Eve? Josic, why do you always ruin my good times?¡±


    Being an adult, Josie instantly understood his meaning. Lowering her voice, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel


    a tinge of guilt, ¡°Well, then¡­ I¡¯ll call you once you¡¯re done?¡±


    ¡°Just get outta my hair!¡±


    Josie chuckled sheepishly. ¡°I just wanted to know why you called me today.¡±


    There was a brief pause on the other end as if he had already figured something out, and he responde


    already run into her, haven¡¯t you?¡± nonchntly. ¡°Well, it doesn¡¯t matter now. You


    Unable to refute his keen insight, Josie admired his perceptiveness. ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell me then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m always the one who gets the inside scoop whenever there¡¯s any action happening among the


    influential families or people.¡±


    ¡°So, do you know why Xanthe came back?¡± Josie inquired.


    Arnold didn¡¯t answer her question but warned, ¡°Josie, it seems like you¡¯re getting a little too involved


    now.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s reminder jolted Josie awake, causing her to sputter, ¡°She¡­ she gave me an ultimatum today.


    I¡¯m just curious and thinking of finding out more about her since we¡¯re bound to run into each other


    again.


    after this.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it. She couldn¡¯t care less about Dexter or who he ends up with,¡± Arnold said, his


    voiceced with yful teasing. ¡°you should marry me instead. My mother is kind and decent.¡±


    Getting a Bit Too Involved


    ¡°F*ck off!¡± Josie couldn¡¯t help but curse.


    Arnold chuckled lightly, diverting the conversation. ¡°So, have you guys had a family dinner yet?¡±This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hmm. Not really,¡± Josie replied.


    Silence followed, creating a slightly strange atmosphere over the phone.


    Before ending the call, Arnold said, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, and I¡¯ll say it again, you¡¯re just an outsider. But if


    you run into any problem, you can always count on me for help.¡±


    Clutching the phone, Josie wrestled with Arnold¡¯s hidden meaning. Lost in thought, she was suddenly


    interrupted by the sound of a car outside. Derter is back!


    Dexter lingered in the car, unhurried to go into the house. Meanwhile, Josie was thrilled to see him


    return. She dashed towards his car, gasping for breath, extending her hand, and¡­


    ¡®Knock! Knock! Knock!¡±


    Then, the car window glided down slowly. Dexter looked fatigued, and there was a hint of numbness in


    his gaze as he saw her.


    Yet, Josie¡¯s gentle and breathy voice instinctively eased his tension. ¡°Why did youe out? It¡¯s


    freezing out here.¡±


    Like a flickering me in the wintry night, her voice warmed his frigid soul. ¡°Hey, is everything alright?¡±


    Dexter smirked and opened the car door. ¡°What could possibly go wrong? Want to hop in?¡±


    Since he had no intention of getting out of the car, he invited Josie to join him inside. The heater was


    cranked up, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere within the vehicle.


    The driver promptly stepped out, granting them their privacy.

 Chapter 259

    Chapter 259


    Chapter 259 Feeling Sorry for Him


    Josie settled beside Dexter, and oddly enough, a wave of nostalgia washed over her after being away


    from him for such a short time. She couldn¡¯t help but feel bashful under his eager and intense gaze.


    ¡°Did¡­ did your mom give you a hard time?¡± Josie blushed.


    Dexter pursed his lips. ¡°Even if she did, it wouldn¡¯t bother me. Don¡¯t worry.¡± He reached out to gently


    smooth her hair. ¡°She wants to meet you one of these days.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.


    He chuckled, pulling her closer and kissing her chin tenderly. Her rosy cheeks flushed even more


    profoundly.


    Dexter¡¯s smile broadened as he yfully squeezed her cheeks. ¡°Feeling sorry for me,


    huh?¡±


    Knowing he was teasing, Josie found his smile both exhrating and heartwarming. She instinctively


    lowered her voice. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you gone inside the house?¡±


    Dexter nuzzled his face against her neck and answered honestly, ¡°Just tired and not in the mood to


    move.¡±


    Even at thiste hour, there were still lively sounds outside. Josie gazed at his face and fell into a


    momentary silence. Outsiders would never guess that the usuallyposed and cool Dexter also had


    these mncholy moments, like a child who had just lost a beloved candy.


    As her gaze settled on him, her mind began to wander, imagining the passage of another year. The


    invincible man before her would eventually age, his hair turning gray, his steps faltering. How would he


    be in his old age? Would he end up a lonely bachelor?


    Absorbed in her thoughts, Josie refrained from picturing herself in Dexter¡¯s future as an old man, aware


    that she might not be a part of his life at that point.


    So¡­ what would he be?


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Dexter felt her gaze and lightly brushed her earlobe with his fingertip.


    Josie responded, ¡°You¡¯ve been working hard.¡±


    Josie¡¯s genuine concern left Dexter momentarily speechless.


    He reached out, gently grasping her chin, and leaned in for a deep, passionate kiss.


    Josie¡¯s attempts to push him away only fueled his desire, making the kiss even more intense. Her body


    melted into his, while his sturdy back provided unwavering support.


    As the clock struck midnight, the sky erupted with the explosive sounds of fireworks, their


    reverberations reaching even through the car window.


    As the old year came to an end and made way for the new, Josie¡¯s confidence in Dexter¡¯s abilities


    remained unwavering.


    She had never doubted his capability since they first met; she knew he was an unstoppable force.


    However, a nagging question gnawed at her, if circumstances stripped him of his wealth and left him


    with nothing, would he still be the same person she knew?


    Josie pondered while simultaneously fearing the potential repulsion that could arise.


    Caught in this dilemma, she reached out and held him tightly, returning the passionate kiss.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t fathom Josie¡¯s thoughts, but her reciprocation brought him joy. As things heated up, he


    pressed her against the steering wheel. Their eyes locked, both aware that the time and ce weren¡¯t


    suitable for intimacy. If they continued, it would ignite an unstoppable me.


    Dexter swiftly retracted his hand, regaining control. He chose to wait out the desire. Opening the car


    door. he held Josie¡¯s hand as they made their way to Mason Garden. A thought struck him along the


    journey, and he took something out of his suit pocket, offering it to her, ¡°Happy New Year.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    ¡°It¡¯s a New Year¡¯s gift, Mrs. Russell.¡± He curved his lips, exuding a gentle demeanor.


    She graciously epted it and smiled, tilting her head. ¡°Happy New Year to you too, Mr. Russell.¡±


    This was their first New Year together.


    After returning to Mason Garden, Dexter kissed her forehead tenderly. His voice was husky, resulting


    from staying upte, ¡°Go and get a good night¡¯s sleep. I still have some things to take care of.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Tiptoeing to avoid making noise, Josie made her way back to their bedroom. As she closed the door,


    her heart thumped loudly in her chest.


    As she leaned against the door, she couldn¡¯t help but notice that her mind was unburdened and at ease


    on this particr night. It was free from the intricate entanglements of rtionships andplex


    personalities.


    Closing her eyes, she reflected that regardless of what the future had in store, the purity of the


    emotions. experienced on this night would remain untarnished.

 Chapter 260

    Chapter 260


    Chapter 260 What Qualifications Do You Have?


    On New Year¡¯s Day, an unexpected visitor appeared. Josie received a text message from an unknown


    sender saying, ¡®Meet me at the nearby park.¡±


    Her heart skipped a beat as she tried to guess the purpose of the meeting. Dexter couldn¡¯t apany


    her as he was upied with social obligations.


    And it turned out to be Xanthe, who wanted to have a conversation with Josie in the park.


    Xanthe lit a cigarette and stood in the wintry solitude, feeling lonely and cold. Her gaze was filled with


    disdain as she stared at Josie.


    ¡°Hi, Ms. Quorn. In case you didn¡¯t know, my name is Josie,¡± she forced a smile.


    Xanthe nced at her from head to toe, extinguished her cigarette, and said, ¡°Come take a walk with


    me.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Though their rtionship was strained, there was no pretense. Xanthe didn¡¯t act superior or


    condescending, and their words and actions were on equal ground.


    Xanthe asked about Josie¡¯s family, and she answered truthfully, ¡°I¡¯m an orphan. My stepmother works


    as a sanitation worker, my father is a vegetative patient in the hospital, and I have a younger brother


    who does. odd jobs for a living.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t hide or lie about her family. Maybe her background was worlds apart from the Russell


    family, but so what? Different circumstances shouldn¡¯t give anyone the right to look down on others.


    Xanthe let out a mockingugh. ¡°Very well.¡±


    ¡°Do you think you¡¯re deserving of Dexter?¡±


    ¡°¡­ It¡¯s clear that I don¡¯t, but since things havee to this point. I will strive to be worthy of him.¡±


    Xanthe smiled, revealing an elusive meaning that Josie couldn¡¯t decipher. ¡°Then a divorce is just a


    matter


    of time.¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    This park was an extension of Mason Garden, with fruit trees nted and nurtured by devoted


    gardeners. The sky had turned a deep shade, and the grapes dangling from the vines sparkled with


    absolute rity.


    With such devoted cultivation, they were bound to be incredibly sweet.


    Xanthe stretched out her hand and plucked two grapes, her ring delicately grazing the fruit without


    leaving a trace of blemish.


    Josie was startled. She had seen a ring simr to that on Dexter¡¯s finger before. He had exined that


    the ring served as a means of testing substances for potential poisoning, be it from smoking, drinking,


    or eating.


    It was a self-defense tool passed down through generations of the Russell family, signifying their


    formidable heritage. Xanthe was worried that the grapes might have been sprayed with pesticides by


    the caretakers, hence the test.


    But the unblemished ring proved the fruits to be non-toxic and safe to be consumed. So, she handed


    one to Josie. ¡°Grapes at this time of year should taste very sweet.¡±


    Josie gingerly epted the grape. Her chest was trembling with mixed emotions.


    Regardless of the weight of the past, Josie harbored a peculiar admiration for the woman standing


    before


    her.


    Without dy, Xanthe delved into prying about Josie and Dexter¡¯s rtionship.


    ¡°Dexter is still young and naive. He may have obligations to you and the other girl. But that¡¯s how life


    works, isn¡¯t it? We all have to make sacrifices andpromises along the way. I hope that when the


    timees, you¡¯ll be the one to y the role of the viin in this rtionship.¡±


    Essentially, Xanthe wanted Josie to be the one to propose a divorce.


    Taking a deep breath, Josie retorted, ¡°Ms. Quorn, I know you¡¯re not fond of me, and I¡¯m aware that


    most of the Russell family shares the sentiment. But I don¡¯t care. I know Dexter loves me, and that¡¯s all


    that matters. Do you think you can dictate Dexter?¡±


    Xanthe sneered. ¡°Seems like Henry is quite fond of you and has told you everything about me.¡±


    Despite being exposed, Josie maintained herposure. She straightened her posture and replied,


    ¡°It¡¯s not about me refusing to let go, but there¡¯s something I need to ask you for Dexter¡¯s sake. You¡¯ve


    never bothered to care about Dexter all these years, so what makes you think you can stick your nose


    in his marriage and judge the woman he¡¯s chosen?¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s expression shifted.


    ¡°Listen, Ms. Quorn, it¡¯s all about knowing your ce. If I were in your shoes and had decided to stay


    out of it, I wouldn¡¯t return and make things difficult for him.¡±


    Josie spoke without hesitation or reservation. She had no intention of showing respect to this woman,


    even if she was Dexter¡¯s biological mother.

 Chapter 261

    Chapter 261


    Chapter 261 Seeking Help


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I must say you¡¯re braver than I gave you credit for Xanthe caid with an indifferent smile.


    ¡°but let me tell you this quality alone won¡¯t secure your ce in the Russell family¡±


    She took a tissue from her bag and meticulously wiped her fingers clean, one by one, before discarding


    it in the trash bin ¡°We¡¯re likely to cross paths often in the future I wish you all the best in life.¡±


    Josie had anticipated Xanthe¡¯s anger, but instead, she remained calm andposed, adding to Josie¡¯s


    mounting pressure


    In response, Josie mustered a smile and said. ¡°Happy New Year to you!¡±


    Xanthe turned and walked away. Just as she was about to enter the car, she nced back and said.


    ¡°You know what Dexter told me yesterday at the family estate?¡±


    Confused, Josie looked at her with a puzzled expression.


    Xanthe smiled again. ¡°Never mind, it¡¯s probably best if you don¡¯t know. Knowing would only make you


    sad¡±


    At nightfall, Dexter returned home, looking a bit dusty. He spotted Josie sitting on the sofa, lost in her


    thoughts. ¡°Something bothering you today?¡± He asked.


    Josie nced up and sighed. ¡°Your mom came to me earlier.¡±


    Dexter paused, his expression revealing no surprises. ¡°What did she say?¡±


    ¡°She mentioned how you owe me and another girl, and she hopes I¡¯ll be the one to call for divorce.¡±


    A smirk formed on his lips as he listened. ¡°Don¡¯t let her words get to you.¡±


    Knowing Xanthe¡¯s true nature, Josie didn¡¯t take it to heart, but she couldn¡¯t shake off the pressure. She


    sat up and held onto Dexter¡¯s waist. ¡°Dexter, if the timees and you have to choose, would you


    choose me again?¡±


    Her intuition told her not to ask this question, but she couldn¡¯t resist prying.


    Dexter allowed Josie to cling onto him, cing his hand gently on her head as he reassured her, ¡°I


    would.¡±


    Despite hearing the answer she wanted, Josie didn¡¯t feel the expected joy. It felt as though his


    response wasn¡¯t entirely genuine.


    She smiled and looked up. ¡°What did you talk about with your mother for so long yesterday?¡±


    The man motioned for her to help him loosen his tie, and she skillfully obliged.


    ¡°She wants me to help her return to the domestic market.¡±


    So, Xanthe had her own ventures to take care of as well.


    ¡°Can¡¯t she do it herself?¡±


    Dexter sneered mockingly. ¡°If she could, why would shee back to me? I¡¯m probably thest person


    she wants to see.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart softened. She could sense that this man had yearned, or maybe still yearned, for a


    mother¡¯s love. It must have been tough for him to endure such treatment from his biological mother.


    The holiday whizzed by, and as work resumed after the New Year, Josie received the first news of the


    year. Kevan had been transferred to another branch!


    Their colleagues were preupied with fervent discussion on Kevan¡¯s transfer, ¡°He¡¯s a freshy, and


    getting transferred to a branch for regrization is a big deal. Not many of us have had that chance.¡±


    Josie nced at the transfer order. Kevan had been moved to a branch in the neighboring city of


    Rivonia. This meant he was even farther away from his hometown.


    As a seasoned employee at thepany, she understood the implications. It was presented as a


    promotion, but at best, it was just ateral move. Although he was being regrized, the resources at


    the branch couldn¡¯tpare to those at the headquarters.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, thank you for caring for me these past few days. If you ever visit Rivodia, I¡¯ll treat you to


    dinner,¡± Kevan said, bidding farewell to Josie, holding onto his few belongings with a faintly bitter smile.


    Josie felt a sense of unease. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t expect such an arrangement from the higher-ups. Have


    you thought about quitting and finding another designpany? I believe in your abilities.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, what are you saying? This is already the best opportunity avable to me. Even though


    Rivodia is far, the sry is high. I have noints.¡±

 Chapter 262

    Chapter 262


    Chapter 262 It Had to Do With Her


    Kevan had a lean frame, and his youthful eyes shone with admiration when he looked at her.


    But Kevan knew he had to stop here.


    She didn¡¯t know what to say. Josie¡¯s heart sank as he walked away, his shoulders slumped in despair.


    He was a passionate employee but was forced to leave under unfair circumstances. She felt bad for


    him.


    Alice sighed as she saw Josie¡¯s downcast eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t feel bad,¡± she said. ¡°This has nothing to do with


    you.¡±


    Does it really have nothing to do with me? Josic wasn¡¯t sure what to believe.


    Kevan was chosen for the new department even though other employees were more suited for the role.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel that the decision was fishy.


    If only she didn¡¯t watch the movie with Kevan that time.


    She was lost in thought when she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around to see one of the


    employees standing there, holding a stack of files. ¡°Ms. Warren, there¡¯s a meeting on the top floor at


    three thirty in the afternoon. Mr. Russell will be hosting the event personally. Remember to be there on


    time!¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in shock as her words registered. She had totally forgotten about the event.


    As she mulled over her thoughts, the employee hurried away to inform someone else about the event.


    The Russell Group was generally fast and efficient in their pace of work, which made the design


    department under Josie¡¯s leadership seem sluggish inparison.


    The heads of each department were already in the meeting room by the scheduled time. They were


    seated at theirputers, looking serious and professional


    Dexter wore a white sweater. He looked exhausted and disheveled as if he had rushed over from


    another appointment in the cold weather.


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    He nodded in greeting, opened his file, and tapped his pen on the table. ¡°Let¡¯s get started,¡± he said, his


    voice strong and confident.


    He balled his fist against his lips and coughed into it, muffling the sound. Josie had a feeling that he


    wasing down with a cold.


    Everyone¡¯s eyes were on him. He had amanding presence that made it impossible to ignore.


    him.


    Josie only knew how busy he was after she got closer to him. She had seen how packed his schedule


    was. He spent most of his time traveling from one point to another. The total distance he traveled for


    his appointments would most probably be the same as the circumference of the earth.


    It had been a week since she hadst seen him.


    However, he didn¡¯t notice her in the room.


    It Had to Do With Her


    She sat in the corner of the room, doodling absently on a piece of paper.


    A man in his forties leaned in close to her and spoke in a low voice, his tone filled with worry. ¡°How did


    your team do this month? We didn¡¯t meet our target, and Mr. Russell didn¡¯t look like he was in a good


    mood. I think we¡¯re in for a lot of trouble¡­¡±


    The man still had more to say, but his voice caught in his throat when he noticed the drawing on Josie¡¯s


    paper. His pitch rose as he asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    He leaned in closer to get a better look. It was a lifelike drawing of a pig.


    He was bbergasted by what he saw.


    Josie nced up at him; her mouth gaped slightly when her attention was brought back to the meeting.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    She then stared at the man sitting at the head of the table. ¡°How do you know he¡¯s not in a good


    mood?¡± Josie asked. ¡°ording to the rumors, he has great news to share soon.¡±


    His eyes widened in surprise as he gave her a thumbs up.


    Josie was dumbfounded by his reaction.


    She felt a pressuring stare in her direction, and her smile faltered as she looked up to see Dexter


    staring at


    her.


    His lips tightened into a straight line before turning away.


    A short whileter, the man beside Josie was called to update the progress of his work. As he was


    speaking, Dexter interjected, his voice stern, ¡°Why haven¡¯t you resolved it yet? It¡¯s been a month.¡±

 Chapter 263

    Chapter 263


    Chapter 263 Taking Over the Project


    An ufortable air of silence swept through the room.


    The person reporting was visibly shaken. His eyes were ssy and red, and it looked as if he was


    about to


    cry.


    ¡°The government ns to acquire thend to build a new park in Althem City. While the development


    ostensibly benefits the city, the government¡¯s involvement hasplicated things more than expected.¡±


    The Russell Group acquired arge piece ofnd to build new vis, but the government wanted to


    reim it at a lower price. This put their ns at a standstill, as it was difficult to stand up against an


    official government project.


    A heavy silence hung in the air as everyone in the meeting room contemted the challenging project


    ahead.


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened, and his eyes narrowed into a cold re. ¡°Have you found the residents?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but they aren¡¯t willing topromise.¡±


    While selling thend at a lower price would have helped improve their reputation for coborating with


    the government, the Russell Group hadn¡¯t yet fully acquired thend. This was the critical problem.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Several households weren¡¯t willing to move.


    Josie raised her hand tentatively and spoke up, ¡°Our team hasn¡¯t received any new projects in a while.


    Could we take on this one?¡±


    The silence was thick and oppressive.


    All eyes were on Josie as shemanded the room with her unexpected suggestion.


    Fools rush in where angels fear to tread¡­


    Dexter raised his eyebrows in disbelief. ¡°Your team?¡±


    Josie was not happy with the way he doubted her abilities. She capped her pen and spoke with


    determination. ¡°Since the project has already been dyed by a month, there¡¯s no harm in letting us


    take


    over.¡±


    Dexter was taken aback by her sudden change in demeanor.


    The meeting ended with a satisfactory oue. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief as Dexter turned his


    attention to Josic.


    The man beside Josie had tears welling in his eyes as a relieved smile formed on his face, ¡°I¡¯ll send


    you the details very soon.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes were drawn to the white silhouette of his back, standing tall and proud. He exuded an air


    of resoluteness and confidence.


    Within an hour, the news of Josie¡¯s bravery spread like wildfire throughout the office. Employees from


    all


    Taking Over the Project


    levels talked about her courage in standing up to the CEO,


    Words of Josie¡¯s drawing of a pig also circted quickly. Alice was stunned when she found out what


    happened. ¡°Do you know what you¡¯ve done?¡±


    Josie and Alice nned to visit the residents unwilling to sell their homes.


    Frustrated by the additional workload, she asked, ¡°Jo, why did you do this?¡±


    ¡°For the money, she answered without any hesitation.


    Alice met Josie¡¯s gaze with disdain, rolling her eyes as she did so.


    Most of the houses on the acquirednd had already been demolished, leaving the wreckage behind


    covered byyers of snow. The residents gathered together when they heard that people from the


    Russell Group would be there.


    Josie¡¯s assistant handled the discussion with the residents while she observed the houses in the area.


    She noticed that they were all in a terrible state.


    Still, they clung to the small piece ofnd, hoping for more benefits.


    Her assistant reported that the amountpensated was already more than generous.


    Despite their humble status, they demanded an exorbitant amount ofpensation in an unyielding


    and ungracious manner.


    After a short moment, her assistant¡¯s eyes shed red with anger, frustrated by their rude attitude.


    ¡°Their eyes are bigger than their belly!¡± she eximed.


    Josie held her assistant back and inquired, ¡°How much do you want?¡±


    They told her their desired amount.


    At that moment, Josie felt pity for Dexter, who had to sacrifice arge amount of money to acquire the


    land from the unreasonable residents, only to turn it over to the government without making any profit.


    He was facing a significant financial setback due to this project.


    The residents were unwavering in their demands, clearly having discussed their position beforehand.


    Josie stared at the residents with a collected and calm expression, her hands in her pocket. ¡°We can


    pay you this much,¡± she finally said.

 Chapter 264

    Chapter 264


    Chapter 264 Hitting a Wall


    Her voice cut through the hostile air in the room like a bell. ¡°You can¡¯t stop us from demolishing your


    homes,¡± she said. ¡°We¡¯ll wire thepensation as promised. So, what are you going to do? Sue us?¡±


    ¡°We have legally acquired thisnd and paid the agreed price. Is it really worth it to continue this


    dispute?¡±


    Her eyes scanned the room with sharp intensity. ¡°My father is of a simr age, so I understand your


    concerns. I would love to receive as much as possible, but I would never sacrifice my dignity for


    money.¡±


    Her voice wasced with exasperation as she berated their behavior.


    Josie took a deep breath, her face growing grim. ¡°This is our final offer. We are willing to negotiate on


    the rates, but we will not be flexible if you are unwilling topromise.¡±


    The residents were taken aback by Josie¡¯s bluntness. Their expressions hardened as they listened to


    her ultimatums.


    A man stepped out of the shadows and shoved Josie. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her!¡± he shouted. ¡°She¡¯s just


    trying to trick us! Look at her! She¡¯s wearing expensive clothes! She¡¯s not one of us!¡±


    The man shoved Josie with such force that she almost lost her bnce. She was wearing heels,


    making it difficult to keep her footing. She stumbled backward, and for a moment, it looked like she was


    going to fall into the deep hole behind her that the excavator had dug.


    Alice cried out, ¡°Jo!¡± and reached out to catch Josie just before she fell.


    Josie¡¯s face turned ashen pale as she looked behind her in shock..


    She felt a sharp pain in her shoulder des.


    The man who had shoved her was also stunned.


    Josie let out a deep sigh and shook her head. ¡°Let¡¯s end it here,¡± she said, defeated.


    Everyone else sighed in relief. The man who had shoved Josie smirked. ¡°I told you she was only


    pretending!¡± he said.


    Josie¡¯s rage boiled over. She stopped in her tracks and red at the man. She wanted to throw a brick


    at him but knew it would only worsen things.


    ¡°What do you want to do? Hit me?¡± he shouted. The man¡¯s arrogance and insolence were baffling.


    Alice immediately stepped in to defuse the situation. ¡°Don¡¯t get riled up,¡± she said and continued,


    ¡°you¡¯ve misunderstood our intentions.¡±


    Josie removed her coat and examined the bruises on her arms and shoulders as she got into the car.


    Alice waited outside. ¡°I told you that the people here are as stubborn as mules,¡± she said. ¡°You¡¯d get a


    heart attack from trying to convince them otherwise.¡±


    The news of what had happened with the residents spread quickly within thepany. Everyone knew


    about it before she even returned to the Russell Group.


    Hitting a Wall


    When she returned to the office, her subordinate¡¯s concerned voice stopped her in her tracks. ¡°Ms.


    Warren, are you alright?¡±


    Her face grew grimmer with each passing second as she mulled over what had happened. Her


    subordinate¡¯s question was met with a strained nod, and she quickly made her way to the elevator. She


    jabbed the button for the top floor, and the doors snapped shut behind her.


    She had already prepared the proposal for Dexter to approve. It would force the demolition of the


    houses


    in that area.


    The secretary nodded at Josie with a knowing smile.


    Josie suddenly remembered that Ivy hadn¡¯t been aroundtely. ¡°Ms. Moore, hasn¡¯t Ms. Miller returned


    to work? I haven¡¯t seen her in a while.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell has encouraged Ms. Miller to take some time off,¡± Ms. Moore exined to Josie. ¡®she¡¯s


    been working tirelessly for the past few years, and he thinks she needs a break.¡±


    A capitalist like Dexter wouldn¡¯t hold such noble intentions. Josie furrowed her brows as she guessed


    that something unusual must have happened.


    She raised her hand to knock on his door but paused. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She


    knew that talking to him would only make her angry.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She leaned her head to the side to try and take a peek at what he was doing inside, but the curtains


    were drawn. I¡¯ll think of a way when I¡¯m back home.


    When she turned around, she bumped into someone¡¯s cold, hard chest. ¡°Go inside if you¡¯re curious,¡±


    the man said in a deep,posed voice.

 Chapter 265

    Chapter 265


    Chapter 265 Holding a Grudge


    Josie felt a sharp pain in her head as she bumped into Mr. Russell. She stumbled back, but she quickly


    regained herposure. Josie looked up at him, her eyes watering from the pain. ¡°Mr. Russell,¡± she


    greeted him indifferently.


    Dexter held a cup of coffee in his hands. His knuckles were red and chapped from the cold outside


    He wore a ck windbreaker that hugged his tall frame. He had the kind of figure that would turn heads


    wherever he went. If he walked down the street, he would be sure to catch the attention of many


    admirers.


    Dexter didn¡¯t look into her eyes. He pushed the door behind her and uttered coldly, ¡°Come in if you


    have something to say.¡±


    Josie hesitated at her spot, unsure if she should follow him inside. She tightened her grip on the


    proposal, mulling over her thoughts.


    He paused his footsteps and looked over at her with a scornful stare.


    ¡°I¡¯ll only give you ten minutes.¡±


    Josie had no choice but to follow behind him.


    Dexter was flipping through a newly printed document as the scent of the ink spread through the room.


    Just minutes before, Josie stormed into her office, still enraged by the events that had unfolded at the


    construction site. She had been running all the way back and was starting to let out a sweat. She


    tossed her scarf aside and marched up to his office on the top floor, clutching the proposal in her hand.


    Her bare neckline was exposed, her skin pale and smooth as the snow outside. Her deep, dark eyes


    shone with intelligence and wit. She looked breathtakingly stunning. However, she had a bruise on her


    corbone due to the incident that happened earlier.


    Dexter ced the proposal on his desk. ¡°The government will only be using thisnd two months from


    now on. I suggest you continue to persuade the residents while it¡¯s still winter,¡± he said, dismissing her


    proposal.


    He had tly rejected her proposal.


    Josie stood in the spotless office, staring at the untainted man before her. The muscles in her face


    tightened, and her fists were clenched so hard they left marks on her palms.


    She raised her eyebrows, and Dexter braced himself for her to lose her temper. But instead, she said


    icily, ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll go there a few more times.¡±


    She knew that forcing the demolition would be a risky move. If anyone were harmed, the Russell Group


    would face serious consequences.


    She swept out of the room, leaving the proposal behind.


    Dexter¡¯s deep, gravelly voice rumbled in his chest as he spoke, ¡°They¡¯d do anything for the right price.


    If this route doesn¡¯t work, try approaching their associates.¡±


    Josie paused and turned around, her eyes narrowing as she took in the man who had picked up his


    cup and was leisurely sipping on his coffee. He seemedpletely unfazed by the situation


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I should have learned those tricks from Mr. Russell sooner, she scoffed, an icy stare


    piercing into his figure.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Her words dripped with venom and frustration.


    He didn¡¯t even nce up at her. The fluctuating figures on hisputer were far more interesting.


    There was no point arguing with him.


    Josie regretted not dumping the coffee on his face and taking a picture to humiliate him.


    They were both on edge when it came to work matters. Neither of them was willing to back down.


    Josie still held a grudge against him because of Kevan.


    Dexter knew why she acted this way, but he didn¡¯t say anything.


    He took out a document and passed it to her. ¡°Wyatt ising next month. You¡¯ll be in charge of


    weing him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes blinked in incredulity at the sudden announcement. Her eyebrows furrowed as she asked,


    ¡°This early?¡±


    Only at that moment did they radiate the familiarity of a married couple. Dexter raised his eyebrows. ¡°Is


    it too difficult for you?¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°Why would it be difficult? He¡¯s Mr. Russell¡¯s family member. I¡¯ll make sure he is


    well taken care of.¡±


    She turned on her heel and walked away, leaving Dexter with a wide grin on his face. He watched her


    go, his expression a mixture of affection and bafflement.

 Chapter 266

    Chapter 266


    Chapter 266 You Owe Me a Favor


    Dexter gave a presentation on the research being carried out by the Russell Group to a packed


    function room of media personnel andpany executives.


    With free time on her hands, Josie apanied Alice to the thirty-second floor of the building to watch


    the event.


    She saw many familiar faces there.


    Among the crowds, she spotted the main character of the day. Dexter, a man with a respectable and


    noble demeanor, stood out from the rest. His eyes were sharp and watchful, and the corner of his lips


    curled up in a forceful smile.


    ¡°Have you seen the rumors about Mr. Russell living together with a woman? Remember? The one that


    looks like you? I¡¯m so jealous of her. What does it feel like to be loved and cared for by Dexter


    Russell?¡±


    Josie felt a wave of unease wash over her. Loved and cared for? Not by him. He only knew how to


    torture her.


    Josie watched from the sidelines as Dexter confidently answered the media¡¯s questions. He used


    highly professionalnguage to highlight his intelligence and wit as he stood under the spotlight.


    Dexter¡¯s outstanding presentation had Josie spellbound. She was brought back to reality by the


    thunderous apuse of the crowd. She pped along with them, a corner of her lips lifting in a smile of


    admiration.


    As he finished his presentation, Dexter nced around the room and caught sight of Josie standing in


    the


    corner.


    His eyes


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    widened in disbelief, but he quickly regained hisposure, knowing that the crowd was watching him.


    After a short moment, Josie felt a buzz from her handphone. You¡¯re not allowed to drink!


    Upon receiving the text, Josie switched her red wine to a cup of orange juice.


    Josie wandered aimlessly around the room, her mind elsewhere. She noticed several of the executives.


    Dexter introduced to her at thest event they attended together.


    As she passed by, the executives locked eyes with her and smiled respectfully. They were unable to


    greet her personally, but they raised their sses in a silent toast.


    Josie¡¯s phone buzzed again. She nced down at the screen and saw a text message from Dexter:


    ¡®Don¡¯t go too far. I¡¯ll pick you up after the event.


    Josie typed back, ¡®Alright.¡¯


    On the other end of the line, Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a warm smile as he imagined incurring Josie¡¯s


    irritation.


    Indeed, Josie¡¯s face was a mask of disdain. Arnold had noticed her knitted eyebrows from across the


    room.


    He was captivated by hermanding presence in the crowd.


    He walked over and sat down at her table. ¡°What a coincidence!¡±


    Josie was startled to see him here. ¡°This is the Russell Group¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he said with a mischievous grin. ¡°you¡¯ve be even more beautiful than I remembered


    Josie rolled her eyes at Arnold. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± she asked, her voice dripping with


    contempt.


    ¡°Josic, don¡¯t be such a party pooper,¡± Arnold slurred as he loosened his tie.


    Josie lifted the corner of her lips into a knowing smile as she called for the server. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the


    type to spoil the mood,¡± she said. ¡°What can I get you to drink? My treat.¡±


    Arnold ordered the most expensive drink on the menu. Josie maintained herposure.


    He felt a sense of awe and wonder as he gazed into her pure and profound features.


    ¡°Dexter Russell is personally presenting today. With every prominent figure in the industry in


    attendance. at the Russell Group event, I couldn¡¯t miss out.¡±


    Josie decided not to pry further, but Arnold¡¯s behavior became increasingly mysterious. ¡°Since you


    came to watch my husband¡¯s presentation today,¡± she said, ¡°doesn¡¯t that mean you owe me a favor?¡±


    How did shee up with this idea? Arnold¡¯s curiosity was piqued as he asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°You could tell me why Xanthe returned to the country.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t your husband tell you why?¡± he scoffed.

 Chapter 267

    Chapter 267


    Chapter 267 Making Her Happy


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie was taken aback by his condescending tone. She felt her voice catch in her throat but forced


    herself to remain collected. ¡°Are you going to tell me or not?¡± she asked.


    The wine arrived at the table. ¡°Are you threatening me?¡± he asked, pursing his lips.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to reply. She was struggling to understand his behavior. At times, he was


    easygoing. But other times, he was cold and distant. She took a deep breath and said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t


    matter if you don¡¯t feel like telling me. Who knows? I might not even be interested to know anymore by


    the time you feel like telling me, Mr. Carter.¡±


    Her witty attitude made it hard for anyone to get mad at her.


    Arnold ced his ss on the table and leaned forward. ¡°What happened to your neck?¡± he asked, his


    eyes narrowing.


    She wore an off-the-shoulder top that exposed her rosy, wind-chapped shoulders.


    ¡°I went to battle.¡± Josie wasn¡¯t interested in continuing this conversation.


    ¡°Did you win?¡±


    Josie stared scornfully at Arnold. ¡°Mr. Carter, I suggest you focus on drinking your overpriced wine,¡±


    shemented.


    Arnold smirked at her. He then turned to the man who had just opened the door, his lips curling into at


    knowing smile.


    ¡°Arnold, I¡¯ve been looking for you everywhere. Turns out you¡¯ve been hiding here this whole time.¡±


    His voice sent a shiver down Josie¡¯s spine. She didn¡¯t dare to turn her head around.


    Arnold wasn¡¯t surprised to see him. He leaned back in his chair and said, ¡°Your speech was a hit.


    There was no room for me to join in the crowd. Luckily, Mrs. Russell was kind enough to buy me a


    drink.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Dexter leaned closer to Josie and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. His stare was cold


    and aloof. ¡°That¡¯s generous of her.¡±


    Josie tilted her head and peeked at Dexter¡¯s face. ¡°I thought I would apany Mr. Carter,¡± she said.


    ¡°He seemed bored.¡±


    She wanted to dispel his suspicions about her rtionship with Arnold, fearing that he would get angry


    again if he thought she was still involved with him.


    Dexter smiled at her. ¡°You did great.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Russell sure knows how to make me happy,¡± Arnoldmented, staring at Dexter with a smile.


    ¡°Everyone was worried that the sudden change in the Russell Group¡¯s stock market trends would be


    disastrous, but you proved us wrong. Dexter, you did a fantastic job!¡±


    Dexter lifted his ss of dry red wine andmented, ¡°I remember Arnold doesn¡¯t like this kind of


    wine. It doesn¡¯t suit you.¡±


    ¡°I love it now,¡± Arnold replied with a wry unile ¡°It¡¯s funny. I thought the Russell Group would never get


    involved in the emerce business, but you eventually proved me wrong. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    Josie sensed the underlying meaning of Arnold¡¯sment and was startled by the revtion. The


    Russell Group is entering the emerce business? She had never heard of such a thing before.


    He got up from his seat and whispered to Dexter, ¡°I feel sorry for you. Why do you care about him?¡±


    before leaving.


    He said what he needed to and left without turning around.


    Josie overheard Arnold¡¯sst words and turned towards Dexter, probing, ¡°What did Arnold mean?¡±


    Dexter stared at the ss of wine resting on the table, his heart pounding and his eyes twitching.


    As he caught a whiff of her scent, with no intention of answering her directly, he veered off-topic and


    inquired, ¡°Did you pick out your outfit today?¡±


    It was a mesmerizing fit for her.


    Josie furrowed her brows.


    He put his coat on her shoulders without dy to keep her warm. He embraced her tightly as the


    warmth. enveloped her body. Not a trace of alcohol lingered on her breath.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you¡¯d be here?¡±


    Josie assisted him in loosening his tie. He asked, ¡°Why bother informing you? I¡¯m just an ordinary


    employee here to see the match among the top executives.¡±


    Dexter held onto her slender fingers and asked, ¡°What do you think about my presentation?¡±


    Josie responded indifferently, ¡°I guess you could say you¡¯re a big fish in a small pond.¡±

 Chapter 268

    Chapter 268


    Chapter 268 Taking a Stroll at Night


    She was still holding a grudge against him.


    Dexter chuckled and held her firmly. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± he said.


    Josie had not had a drop of alcohol, but Dexter had consumed his fair share.


    When they were nearing their home, Dexter requested that the driver pull over the car. ¡°Follow me for a


    short walk,¡± he requested.


    Josie was wearing heels, but Dexter had brought an extra pair of sneakers in the car. He helped her


    into her sneakers, and then they stepped out into the night.


    It was already eleven o¡¯clock at night, and the moon was shining brightly overhead.


    The moonlight was so bright that it shone on the road, revealing theyer of frost that had formed on


    the pavement. The shadows of their locked hands were long and distorted.


    He felt the disconfort in his chest lift with the wind. The sound of the cars and the busyness of his daily


    endeavors were reced by the sound of the wind in the trees. He felt calm and at peace.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Many prominent households resided in this affluent neighborhood. Sports cars frequently drove by,


    carrying young adults. One of them was smoking a cigarette, her hair blowing in the wind. She shouted


    bravely to Dexter, ¡°Hey, you look handsome!¡±


    She looked barely out of her teens. ¡°Stop your nonsense, the boy beside her said sternly as he pulled


    her back.


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved into a smile, but it was met with an annoyed re from Josie. ¡°Is she pretty?¡±


    His smile widened as he replied, ¡°Not as pretty as you.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t pry into Dexter¡¯s troubles, but she could tell something was weighing on his mind. She


    suspected it had something to do with Xanthe, but he refused to talk about it.


    She held his hands tightly and followed him. ¡°Dexter Russell, am I your wife?¡±


    He looked down at her and smiled. ¡°Of course,¡± he replied.


    The corner of her lips lifted into a warm smile. ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± she said. ¡°At least on our marriage


    certificate, we¡¯re officially married. So no matter what¡¯s going on, you can share it with me. I won¡¯t tell


    anyone else.¡±


    Her smile was warm and genuine, and her eyes shone in the streetlight.


    Dexter took a deep breath and held her hands tightly. ¡°I have to help her,¡± he said.


    Josie understood what Dexter meant, and she wasn¡¯t against his idea. ¡°I understand,¡± she said.


    They spotted the same car they saw earlier on the side of the road with burst tires.


    The two young adults appeared rxed as they sat by the road, humming along to songs without any


    sense of urgency.


    Taking a Stroll at Night


    The corner of Josie¡¯s eyes crinkled as she observed their carefree behavior.


    The girl recognized them. She patted the dust from her pants and took out a cigarette. She offered it to


    Dexter, ¡°Handsome, do you know how to fix a car?¡± she asked.


    Dexter didn¡¯t take the cigarette. He folded his sleeves and crouched down next to the car. Did your car


    break down?¡± he asked.


    The driver following behind them stopped the car when he noticed his boss signaling him to get down


    from the car.


    ¡°Give them a hand,¡± he instructed.


    The driver brought out a box of tools from the trunk of the car.


    The girl¡¯s eyes were filled with admiration and awe. ¡°Wow, handsome,¡± she said. ¡°Do you have a


    girlfriend? Or a boyfriend?¡±


    The driver staggered as he was startled by herment.


    Josie understood what she meant and leaned in to whisper in Dexter¡¯s ear. ¡°She¡¯s implying that you


    wouldn¡¯t be into girls if you¡¯re so good-looking.¡±


    Dexter wasn¡¯t satisfied with her assumption. He lifted his hands, which were still holding Josie¡¯s, and


    announced proudly, ¡°She¡¯s my wife.¡±


    A strange thud hit Josie¡¯s heart as he announced his rtionship with Josie so openly in front of a


    stranger. It felt surprisingly good to have their rtionship acknowledged like this.


    The girl¡¯s eyes instantly lost their glint. She pouted, discontented, ¡°Why are you showing off your


    rtionship in front of me?¡±


    After a while, she lifted her eyes and looked suspiciously at Dexter. ¡°You look familiar.¡±


    A ringing silence surrounded the night.


    The girl racked her brain, trying to figure out where she had seen him before. She had seen his face


    before but couldn¡¯t quite ce it. A peaceful silence filled the air as the girl pondered.


    Suddenly a call from Josie¡¯s phone disturbed the silence. It was Matthew.


    Josie hesitated for a moment, unsure of whether to answer the call. ¡°Answer it,¡± Dexter said in a calm


    voice.


    Josie took a deep breath and answered the phone. ¡°Hello, Matt,¡± she said.


    There was a moment of silence before Matthew spoke, ¡°Josie, I called to see if you¡¯ve made a decision


    about Mr. Warren,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ve settled everything here, and I¡¯m ready to take him back to the hospital


    if that¡¯s what you want.¡±


    Paul¡¯s condition had been improving steadily in Mason Garden. Josie and Dexter had discussed this


    possibility earlier and decided to give Paul a little more time to recover at Mason Garden.

 Chapter 269

    Chapter 269


    Chapter 269 Lovey-Dovey


    ¡°Matt, my father¡¯s condition has been gradually improving. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be sending him to the


    hospital. Thank you for looking out for us.¡±


    Her tone was polite but distant. Matthew could sense that she was pulling away from him.


    ¡°Alright. Are you facing any problems with him?¡±


    The ¡°him¡± he referred to was obvious. He was asking about the man standing next to her, the man who


    had been staring at her with undisguised suspicion.


    ¡°No, Matt. It¡¯s my own decision.¡±


    Matthew didn¡¯t press the issue. He could tell that she didn¡¯t want to talk about it. Soon after, he replied,


    ¡°Be safe and take care of yourself. Good night.¡±


    He spoke warmly to her.


    ¡°Good night.¡±


    Josie hung up the phone and met Dexter¡¯s suspicious stare. It was a simple conversation with her


    friend, but she felt guilty nheless.


    ¡°Are you always this sweet with your friends?¡± he asked, his voiceced with jealousy.


    Josie wanted to run away. ¡°It only shows how good I am at socializing.¡± she said, trying to sound.


    nonchnt.


    She took two steps away from him, but he grabbed her arm and pulled her back into his embrace.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie tried to free herself, but he was too strong. ¡°There are people around,¡± she whispered, her


    cheeks burning with embarrassment.


    The girl who stood beside the road quickly covered her face and franticallymented, ¡°I didn¡¯t see


    anything. You guys can continue.¡±


    She wanted to disappear into the ground¡­


    Josie pushed him away with all her might and quickly scampered away.


    ¡°What are you doing standing there?¡± The girl who witnessed what happened removed her hands from


    her face and blurted. ¡°Run after her, McDreamy!¡±


    The night breeze rustled through the trees while the skies rumbled with the sound of airnes


    overhead. Her eyes sparkled under the streetlights as she ran like a teenager, her face still flushed with


    annoyance at his unexpected behavior. It felt like a scene from a movie.


    He chased her down the street while his breath quickened. He caught up to her, gripped her wrist, and


    slowly slid his hands down to sp hers.


    Josie was already twenty-two years old. She had been through a lot in her life and matured a lot as a


    result. But the scene unfolding before her eyes was something out of a teenage movie. She felt like an


    outsider,


    watching two people y out a love story she could no longer rte to.


    She slowly turned around, and her eyes met his. She felt a jolt of electricity run through her body as


    she gazed into his gleaming eyes.


    As Arnold was leaving the event hall, his assistant hurried after him. ¡°Mr. Carter, there are still several


    partners you haven¡¯t had a chance to toast with,¡± she said.


    He nced at his watch. It was gettingte.


    Arnold waved his hands dismissively and staggered over to his ride.


    The driver wasn¡¯t sure where he wanted to go. ¡°Do you want to go to the Carter Mansion or¡­¡±


    Arnold shut his eyes, feeling frustrated. ¡°The apartment!¡± he groaned.


    The driver kept his eyes on the road, his face expressionless.


    Lillian was staying at the apartment. She was the only person who could keep Arnold entertained for


    over a month, but that was it.


    She sprained her foot the other day, and he couldn¡¯t force her to leave.


    Arnold casually looked at the convenience store near his apartment when an idea suddenly struck him.


    ¡°Stop the car,¡± he demanded out of the blue.


    When Arnold returned to the car, the driver was startled to see him carrying a brightly colored bag of


    candy and snacks. These particr brands of candies and snacks were popr with kids.


    The apartment was dark and silent. He flicked on the light, and his eyes widened in shock. The dining


    table was a mess; the disastrous scene before him sobered him up immediately.


    When he entered the bedroom, he saw Lillian sleeping soundly. She was mumbling in her sleep,


    tossing and turning, almost falling off the bed.


    Arnold¡¯s heart swelled when he noticed how close she was to the edge of the bed. Thank goodness


    she didn¡¯t fall off the bed.


    After confirming that she was still asleep, he gently picked her up and carried her to the middle of the


    bed. He carefully tucked the nket around her, careful not to wake her.


    She felt so small and fragile, yet her warmth and softness enveloped him when he held her in his arms.


    Arnold sighed as he patiently cleaned up the mess outside. He couldn¡¯t help but look away from the


    mess, disgusted by the sight of it. What have I done to deserve this?

 Chapter 270

    Chapter 270


    Chapter 270 Get Out


    Her pinkptop was left on the sofa, the screen still glowing.


    Arnold hovered the mouse over the game icon, and the main page immediately popped up. He was


    stunned to see she was still using his ount to y.


    Arnold had invited her to y games to pass the time at the office. Sheughed at his gaming skills,


    which baffled him. He challenged her. ¡°If you¡¯re so good, help me get into the next league.¡±


    Hence, he gave her his ount details.


    Arnold nced at the screen, surprised that she had already leveled up.


    Arnold closed the gaming webpage and tried to ess the files on herputer, but they were all


    password-protected. He tried to unlock them, but he was unsessful.


    She was a true professional, but only at the things unrted to her work.


    The following day, Lillian woke up early, limping out of the bedroom and into the living room, where she


    saw Arnold asleep on the sofa. He was clutching herptop to his chest.


    Her eyebrows lifted in surprise and delight at the sight of the candies on the table.


    He brought candies!


    Lillian was about to open the bag of candies when Arnold¡¯s phone rang, startling her so much that she


    almost jumped out of her skin. She quickly ended the call, hoping the noise didn¡¯t wake him.


    Lillian crept towards the bag of candies, her movements slow and deliberate. She reached in and


    carefully withdrew a strawberry-vored candy. She slowly tore open the wrapper and ced the candy


    in her mouth, savoring the sweet taste.


    Lillian smiled as her eyes wandered over to the sofa. Her smile faltered when she met his dark, clear


    eyes staring back at her. She gasped and stumbled backward, nearly falling over.


    ¡°F*ck!¡±


    He swiftly caught her as she stumbled, and she fell into his arms. She winced in pain as her nose


    bumped against his chest.


    Lillian caught a faint whiff of Arnold¡¯s cologne.


    She could tell he was feeling annoyed as he had just woken up from sleep. His voice was hoarse and


    gravelly as he asked, ¡°What are you doing so early in the morning?


    The alcohol smell still lingered in his breath.


    Lillian was feeling foggy in the morning, her mind still half in dreand. She wasn¡¯t sure how to answer


    him, so she simply stared at his thin, slightly rosy lips.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m going to prepare my breakfast.¡±


    She moved away from him and hopped towards the kitchen like a rabbit.


    Arnold was fully awake. He groaned and covered his eyes with his hands. ¡°I¡¯m begging you, he said,


    his voice thick with lethargy. ¡°Stop walking around¡±


    Lillian was taken aback by his sudden plea.


    Arnold made breakfast for both of them while Lillian yed games on herptop. The sight of his broad


    back silhouetted against the morning light as he cooked in hisfortable daily clothes was extremely


    captivating.


    Arnold was very carefree in his house. He was dressed infortable clothes, his hair was disheveled,


    and his long pants were folded at the ankles. He had just finished breakfast, and he felt his energy


    draining. He went back into the guest room to take a nap. As he was leaving, he turned to Lillian and


    said, ¡°Leave your bowl on the table. I¡¯ll clean it upter.¡±


    Lillian¡¯s surge of happiness took a turn witnessing his reluctant behavior.


    He sounded distant and aloof as if she had forcefully clung onto him, and he needed to put up with her.


    Lillian¡¯s heart chilled as she froze at the dining table. Later, she limped slowly towards the guest room,


    but Arnold was already asleep. A picture on the headrest of the bed caught her eye as she walked in


    softly.


    That person was Summer Olsen.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The photo captured Summer in high school, reading a book at her desk. Her back was straight, and her


    dark hair was tied neatly into a ponytail.


    Arnold woke up with a start, his heart racing. He saw Lillian standing over him, holding a picture in her


    hands. His face turned grim as he realized what it was. ¡°What are you doing with that?¡± he demanded,


    snatching the frame from her.


    Lillian stumbled backward, feeling startled by his unexpected rage.


    ¡°I was looking.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s face hardened, and his voice was cold as ice. ¡°Get out. Now,¡±


    Lillian feared him, but she still hoped to apany him and bring new excitement into his life.


    But she didn¡¯t manage to achieve what she had intended to.


    She grappled with the situation with a heavy heart. Slowly, she limped away on her crutch, and Arnold¡¯s


    deep, gravelly voice followed her. ¡°I want you out of my life.


    Hisst words froze her on the spot.

 Chapter 271

    Chapter 271


    Chapter 271 Held as Hostage


    Wyatt arrived at the Russell Group as expected.


    With a fair and youthful appearance, he spoke politely and endeared himself to many of the employees.


    Since Josie was giving him a personal tour of the Russell Group office, people naturally became


    curious about his identity.


    Who is this?


    Josie handed Wyatt a ss of water in the pantry. ¡°We¡¯ll be working together from now on,¡± she said. ¡°I


    hope we get along well.¡±


    Wyatt, who was involved in venture capital, wasn¡¯t part of the design department. He smiled warmly


    and epted the cup from Josie. ¡°Thank you, Josie,¡± he said.


    Josie felt her heart race. ¡°You can call me Ms. Warren. Let¡¯s keep things professional in the office.¡±


    Wyatt slowly nodded his head.


    However, Josie would find a cup of hot coffee on her desk every day at the office.


    Alice was also feeling confused. ¡°It¡¯s not me,¡± she said.


    She decided to check the security footage and realized that it had been Wyatt all along.


    The next day, she left a sticky note at her table that read, ¡®I don¡¯t drink coffee in the morning. Thank for


    the thought.


    As expected, there wasn¡¯t a cup of coffee on her table the next day.


    you


    It was a hectic day in the meeting room. Josie and Wyatt were both present, and the project involving


    the residents of Althem City was assigned to Wyatt.


    The receptionist burst into the room, her voice shaking. ¡°Ms. Warren,¡± she stammered, ¡°there¡¯s


    someone here to see you.¡±


    Josie remained collected, her gaze steady on the receptionist. ¡°Who is it?¡± she asked calmly.


    The receptionist shook her head, her eyes awash with conflicting emotions. ¡°I¡¯m not sure who he is,¡±


    she said, ¡°but he was insistent on seeing you. He brought something a¡­¡±


    Wyatt stepped out of the meeting room to see what was happening. Suddenly, people started


    screaming at the top of their lungs. The knife pointed at Wyatt, and Josie felt her whole body tense up


    in fear.


    The receptionist faintly continued, ¡°¡­ a knife.¡±


    Josie sensed something was wrong. She stood up and walked over to the door. As she got closer, she


    saw the person standing behind the knife.


    A man in a leather jacket and jeans stood in the doorway, a cigarette dangling from his lips. His buzz


    cut was unkempt, and his face showed the wear and tear of a hard life. He looked like a rocker who


    had seen better days.


    The man looked like a rocker at first nce, but the illusion was shattered when he opened his mouth.


    ¡°Which one of you is Josie Warren?¡±


    Wyatt had never seen such a crude man. The glint of the knife in his hand made her eyes water. She


    was too afraid to move.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    As the air was thick with painful silence, Josie pulled Wyatt away. ¡°I am,¡± she announced.


    ¡°F*ck!¡± He spat on the floor, then grabbed Josie¡¯s cor with a bruising grip. The man¡¯s knife hovered


    just inches from Josie¡¯s neck. ¡°Are you the one who wants to take away our home without paying us?¡±


    He must be the family member of a homeowner in Althem City who was unwilling to sell their house.


    Josie stared at him and, feigning indifference, uttered, ¡°Are you Moses?¡±


    She had looked through the details of every household. One of them had a son who went overseas to


    study at eighteen. He squandered his parents¡¯ money by wandering around the city. Now that his family


    was in financial trouble, he finally returned.


    Josie had a strong impression of him as he was a wanderer. He was a rare sight, a wanderer from a


    poor family.


    Moses pressed the knife against her neck; his teeth clenched in anger. ¡°Tell me what I should do now?¡±


    he growled.


    A bloodcurdling scream pierced the air as someone spotted him in the building.


    Wyatt felt his anxiety spike as he could hear his pulse throbbing in his ears. He dropped his phone on


    the floor and scrambled to pick it up. ¡°Stay calm,¡± he said to Moses, trying to sound calm and collected.


    ¡°How much do you want? We can pay you. Please don¡¯t hurt her.¡±


    Josie was close to him, and she noticed the glint in his eyes.


    She red at Wyatt. ¡°I can handle this,¡± she said, her voice strong and determined. ¡°Don¡¯t tell your


    brother.¡±


    Alice frowned, unable to follow her train of thought. ¡°What do you mean? His knife is¡­¡±

 Chapter 272

    Chapter 272


    Chapter 272 Gangster


    Before she finished her words, Josie reached out and grabbed the knife. Moses was momentarily


    stunned, and at that moment, she swiftly snatched the knife and threw it to the ground.


    Without a scratch on her, Josie remained indifferent, as if she were merely an outsider. ¡°Is this knife


    brand new? It doesn¡¯t seem sharp at all. Can¡¯t even cut a lemon with it.¡±


    With the resounding thud of the knife hitting the ground, Moses was flooded with a whirlpool of


    emotions. Those who were expecting a frightening hostage-holding scene were left dumbfounded.


    Little did they expect it was just a bluff from a cowardly troublemaker.


    Bryce immediately put away his phone.


    Moses straightened his posture, maintaining his tough appearance. ¡°I don¡¯t care. No one leaves if you


    don¡¯t give me a way out today.¡±


    Josie leaned against the side. ¡°What can you do?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do anything,¡± the man responded self-righteously.


    ¡°Then what do you want to do?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Moses stepped back and casually sat on someone¡¯s desk. His long legs swung freely as if he


    were on a beach vacation. He reached out his hand and continued with a serious tone. ¡°let me work


    here; any position will do. I¡¯m only asking for thirty thousand a month. Not too demanding, right?¡±


    Josie did not respond to his ridiculous demands.


    Alice couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°You might as well go rob the bank!¡±


    Bryce chimed in, ¡°How is this any different from robbery?¡±


    Josie smiled nonchntly, ¡°It¡¯s not impossible, but let your fathere and talk to me.¡±


    If she agreed to this request, the stubborn tenants wouldn¡¯t have the audacity to refuse their offer


    anymore.


    She returned to the conference room and instructed Alice, ¡°Find the security guards and throw him


    out.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You!¡±


    Several security guards escorted the young man out, leaving him utterly embarrassed.


    Moses stood alone outside the Russell Group building and looked at the towering structure. His tongue


    pressed against the inside of his cheek, and his eyes narrowed into slits. Well done, Josie, he thought.


    Eventually, Dexter came to learn about the incident as well.


    At the top floor of the Russell Group building, a secretary poured a cup of hot water for Josie. Dexter


    leaned against the side, flipping through documents, and asked, ¡°So, Moses Chakov?¡±


    Josie remainedposed. ¡°How did you find out about this?¡±


    The man didn¡¯t answer-an indecipherable emotion was hidden deep in his eyes.


    A few dayster, Josie received a response from the stubborn tenants. They were finally willing to let


    go of the plot, but on the condition that she would help their son find a job. Of course, it wouldn¡¯t be as


    extravagant as Moses¡¯ demands. As long as he could make a living, it would suffice.


    At that time, Dexter had just received all the information about Moses. Moses had attended MIT but


    went astray afterward, leading an unruly life with few good deeds. The list of misdeeds filled two pages.


    On that evening. Dexter appeared near the house where Moses currently resided.


    With his own eyes, he witnessed a disheveled young man stumbling out of his house, looking lifeless.


    He paused for a moment upon seeing the luxury car, and then, in silence, he picked up arge stone


    from the ground and raised his hand, ready to smash the car.


    Fortunately, the driver¡¯s quick reflexes stopped him. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Moses nced at him and let out a yawn, appearing as if he had lost interest, and dropped the stone.


    He confidently stated, ¡°What am I doing? This is my house. You parked your car here, blocking my way.


    Do you think that¡¯s appropriate?¡±


    Dexter observed his actions quietly and then rolled down the car window.


    Their eyes met.¡±


    Moses raised an eyebrow and challenged, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Dexter remained calm and surveyed the surrounding environment before asking, ¡°Are you content with


    your life?¡±


    Moses remained silent, his long-dead determination slightly stirred by the man¡¯s words.

 Chapter 273

    Chapter 273


    Chapter 273 Hiring A Bodyguard


    ¡°To support your education, your family has exhausted their wealth. Unable to stay abroad any longer,


    you were forced to return to the country. Since your return, your friends have avoided you, and those


    with money are afraid of being associated with you and bing a target of ridicule. Everyone wants


    to bring you down, to quash your ambitions. Finally, now even you have given up on yourself.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words were precise, striking directly at the depths of Moses¡¯ mind. He stared at the other


    man¡¯s eyes, on the verge of erupting in anger.


    He had a thousand words at the tip of his tongue, but no words could make their way out.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    He couldn¡¯t find the confidence to refute-not when this man seemed to know him inside out, including


    the dire situation he was in and the lingering thoughts in his head.


    ¡°Who are you? It must be amusing for you, huh? Coming specifically to ridicule me?¡±


    The secretary couldn¡¯t bear watching more. The two men stood together, simr in age but utterly


    different in status.


    Moses seemed like a teenager going through puberty.


    Dexter calmly handed him a business card and uttered, ¡°If you want to change, I can give you an


    opportunity.¡±


    Perhaps it was because it involved Josie-he didn¡¯t want her to be bothered by the mess.


    Ultimately, he was the one that had gotten her involved in the project.


    He wanted to help, so he extended a helping hand to Moses to spare Josie from repercussions.


    Moses nced at it briefly. ¡°You want me to go to yourpany?¡±


    Pretty clever, Dexter thought.


    ¡°Why?¡± Moses couldn¡¯t think of a reason for this man to voluntarily lend help.


    Dexter crossed his hands and replied slowly, ¡°The woman you held at knifepoint a few days ago is my


    wife.¡±


    Moses furrowed his brow, looking suspiciously at him. ¡°You want to be my savior by giving me an


    opportunity? Sure, but I won¡¯t go to your department. I want to work for your wife. The secretary was


    wondering if he was in his right mind.


    Dexter was starting to catch on with the situation. He asked, ¡°Why?¡±


    Moses leaned in quietly, resting one hand on the car window. ¡°I can help you keep an eye on your wife!


    Can you trust her with that beautiful face? What if she cheats on you?¡±


    The secretary anxiously stared at Dexter¡¯s expression, wishing he could knock Moses to his senses


    and stop him from spouting more nonsense.


    An ambiguous smile lit up Dexter¡¯s features. Unexpectedly, Moses continued, ¡°Of course, only if you


    give


    me a lot of money.¡±


    Moses¡¯ profile mentioned that he had a level nine ck belt in Taekwondo.


    Surprisingly, Dexter looked at this energetic young man and didn¡¯t refute his outrageous demands.


    After a while, he finally responded, ¡°But I have one condition.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡± the secretary couldn¡¯t help but exim. If he worked for Mrs. Russell, wouldn¡¯t it be more


    risky?


    Moses himself was confounded by Dexter¡¯spliance and asked doubtfully, ¡°Are you really okay with


    me working for your wife?¡±


    Dexter was not concerned about being cheated on because he knew that Josie was not that kind of


    person.


    He had other concerns.


    Later that very same day, Josie received Dexter¡¯s message: As long as he doesn¡¯t cause trouble, let


    him work for you and help you with odd jobs.¡±


    Moses was hired into the Russell family¡¯spany with a sry of three thousand.


    Alice and the others also noticed that Moses was showy and had a sharp tongue. Apart from his old


    habits and brazenly arrogant attitude he bore as a child from a rich family, he was pretty good as an


    assistant.


    Moreover, after he joined thepany, the issue of the stubborn tenants was quickly resolved.

 Chapter 274

    Chapter 274


    Chapter 274 Partnering With the Carters


    Josie didn¡¯t ask him why he did it. She half-jokingly said. ¡°You took away the talent I personally


    recruited, and then you brought in such a troublemaker. Mr. Russell, I¡¯m at a loss big time.¡±


    Dexter took her into his arms on the bed and absentmindedly yed with her hair. ¡°That Kevan is


    coming after you. I had to be cautious,¡± he said possessively with an eerie tone.


    Josie lowered her eyes slightly. She had long known that freedom was nothing but a luxury as soon as


    she became his wife.


    After the Lunar New Year, work gradually resumed. Dexter shifted all his focus onto the inte


    industry. particrly the emerce sector. He even coborated with the Carter Group.


    In this regard, Carter Group was a pioneer with experience and capability. The coboration between


    the twopanies was a win-win situation. However, Josie could tell that Arnold might be the biggest


    winner, and she wondered what Dexter had given up for it.


    For¡­ Xanthe?


    In the pantry on the 32nd floor, Bryce poured a cup of coffee for the woman.


    ¡°Josie¡­ no, Ms. Warren, we have shifted our focus to emerce projects in recent investments. Do


    you have any objections?¡± Bryce remained gentle and patient as always.


    Josie tried to look rxed and took a sip of coffee before addressing firmly. ¡°There are many people


    within thepany who have opinions about this reform, and many are curious. Of course, I would


    want to be informed as well.¡±


    ¡°Are you one of the curious ones or one of those with objections?¡±


    Their eyes met, and the dynamic between them was far from benevolent.


    The corner of Josie¡¯s lips lifted slightly, but her eyes remained indifferent. She raised her guard as she


    responded, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m on the same side as your brother.¡±


    Bryce nodded. ¡°Good to know.¡±


    Russell¡¯s family had built its foundation through industrialists and had relied on it for many years. With


    such a sudden reform, the board members were unlikely to remain calm. Yet Bryce had no objections.


    indicating that he had aligned with Dexter¡¯s goal.


    This wasn¡¯t within Josie¡¯s responsibilities, but Xanthe¡¯s words that day made her heart race. She feared


    that Dexter might do something irrational.


    After much thought, she paid a visit to Carter Group.


    Upon hearing Josie¡¯s words over the phone, Arnold asked Lilian to pour him a cup of coffee.


    Since that day, Josie didn¡¯t leave his side and has since be an increasingly proactive negotiator


    between the two groups.


    When the call ended, Lilian leaned over. ¡°How long have you known each other?¡±


    Arnold was in a good mood today and reached up to touch her chin. ¡°Guess,¡±


    Lilian smiled. ¡°I won¡¯t guess. But I want to see what nickname you have set for her.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Arnold handed over his personal phone, and Lilian cheerfully started scrolling.


    There was no nickname for Josie, and only a few people had been given nicknames, seemingly


    insignificant individuals.


    A glimmer of disdain shed in Lilian¡¯s eyes. Of course, a woman like Josie couldn¡¯t hold onto Arnold¡¯s


    heart. They were from entirely different worlds..


    Lilian returned the phone to Arnold.


    However, just as she turned to leave, she suddenly turned back and grabbed the man¡¯s cor, standing


    on tiptoe to kiss him.


    She had intended to steal a kiss and then run away, but Lilian was stunned because Arnold didn¡¯t push


    her


    away.


    She widened her eyes slightly at his eptance, and with a firm grasp, she continued to kiss him. The


    softness of his lips fascinated her, and she felt his hand resting on her waist.


    She whimpered with pleasure.


    Unbeknownst to their intimate bouts, Josie walked into the room and caught sight of the both of them.


    She immediately turned to walk away. Just as her body shifted, her secretary passed by and noticed


    her standing outside the room. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you going in?¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯d rather not look at what¡¯s happening there.¡±

 Chapter 275

    Chapter 275


    Chapter 275 Give It a Try?


    Several minutester, Lilian ran out with her hand covering her mouth, her face flushed. Josie gave


    them. some privacy and only entered the room after she saw Lilian walking out. Arnold was putting on


    a scarf just as she walked in. ¡°Mr. Carter seems to be in a good mood today. Must be nice keeping an


    assistant around to have affairs, huh?¡±


    When Arnold saw her, he gestured at Josie. ¡°Help me tie it.¡±


    Josie was initially reluctant, but she remembered that she needed something from him, so she


    approached. him. ¡°That girl has quite the charm. You like that type, huh?¡±


    Arnold smiled faintly. ¡°Notpatible in bed, though.¡±


    Josie had nothing to say. She forcefully lowered his head to catch his gaze. ¡°I heard Mr. Carter is quite


    skilled in bed, capable of captivating women. Can she not handle it?¡±


    ¡°Want to find out? You can give it a try.¡± Arnold said while putting his hands on her waist.


    Josie¡¯s body stiffened, and she immediately pushed him away. ¡°Why did Dexter do that?¡±


    Arnold wasn¡¯t upset about being pushed away. He ced his hands behind his back. ¡°Xanthe¡¯s


    company wants to enter the domestic market and needs Series-A funding. She doesn¡¯t have the


    money, so she will inevitably have to negotiate for partnerships and attend social events.¡±


    ¡°He has no reason to help her.¡±


    ¡°Businessmen prioritize profits. Dexter is paving the way for Russell Group, not just helping her,¡±


    Arnold¡¯s body shifted, and he continued, ¡°but Xanthe is taking too much. She needs to give something


    in return.¡±


    ¡°What does she need to give?¡± Josie raised her guard.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Guess?¡± Arnold revealed a mysterious smile and walked away, informing his secretary on the way out,


    ¡°Arrange Lilian¡¯s resignation today. I don¡¯t want to see her again.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    As Arnold said, Russell Group devoted significant efforts to its emerce ventures in the following


    period. Josie checked and found that most new mediapanies were concentrated in Rivonia. They


    had started investing in the inte industry in its early days and achieved significant profits.


    Compared to them, Russell Group was clearly far behind in that field. However, they had a partnership


    with Carter Group to support them in their endeavors.


    Bryce was the main person in charge of this project.


    He was one of the Russells, young and willing to take responsibility. Josie thought it was reasonable


    that Dexter was willing to support him.


    Within the next few days, with Dexter away on a business trip, Josie mustered up the courage to ask


    Bryce to let her join in to learn more about the project.


    Bryce agreed with partial reluctance.


    Not long after, Moses yawned and told Dexter tiredly, ¡°Oh my god! Your wife is such a workaholic!¡±


    Dexter smiled without saying a word.


    At the same time, Josie had Moses book her a flight ticket. She was going to Rivonia with Bryce


    + Bonus


    Bryce announced with a solemn tone, ¡°Dex said earlier that we must achieve a nine-figure profit within


    six months. If I can¡¯t do it. I¡¯ll have to resign my position.¡±


    No wonder, Josie thought.


    In the following days, Josie followed Bryce. She engaged in numerous discussions with cunning


    business partners, talking about coborations and funding flows, racking her brain to learn how to


    maximize their interests, just like Dexter.


    On the other hand, the Carter Group team worked tirelessly to develop the best products. They would


    have to start all over again if they miscalcted just one error with the data. They were racing against


    time and had to be both efficient and creative.


    Josie assigned Moses as her assistant. He didn¡¯t have to handle too many important tasks, just had to


    take care of some trivial matters. Dexter was pleased to hear this because it made it very convenient


    for him to supervise her.


    The secretary felt he was a bit pathological, finding all sorts of ways to control Josie.


    She mustered up the courage to ask, ¡°Mr. Russell, aren¡¯t you afraid¡­ that Moses might have bad


    intentions. toward Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t.¡± Dexter was highly confident. In more than twenty years of his life, he considered himself


    good at reading people. Someone like Moses, even though he appeared to be struggling now, had


    received a good education since childhood. Just like his previous attempt to use a blunt knife to hold


    Josie hostage, he¡¯s mentally an immature child. He wouldn¡¯t do anything wrong-he was a good person.


    Moreover, Dexter had given Moses arge sum of money, more than enough to spend. He was


    brilliant. and had no reason to go against money.

 Chapter 276

    Chapter 276


    Chapter 276 Wanting to Help Him


    Moses fulfilled his duties conscientiously, providing Dexter withprehensive and urate reports on


    every movement and detail concerning Josie.


    Josie ran into Arnold at the airport as she made her way to Rivodia.


    It wasn¡¯t a mere coincidence. Arnold spoke into his phone, ¡°I¡¯m flying to London tomorrow. Can we


    meet now?¡±


    Josie hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do. ¡°I¡¯m actually at the airport right now. My flight


    leaves in forty minutes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯lle over right away.¡±


    As Arnold made his way over, he noticed Josie seated in the airport lounge, casually enjoying a bowl of


    noodles. Her side profile exuded a sense of grace andposure.


    Seated beside Arnold was Moses, to whom Josie had not been introduced yet.


    Just as Arnold was taking his seat, Dexter called.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯ve been keeping tabs on Wyatttely,¡± he calmly remarked.


    Josie felt a pang of guilt, but she had mentally prepared herself for this moment, knowing that he would


    eventually find out.


    ¡°Uh, yeah¡­ We¡¯re actually working on a project together, heading to Rivodia,¡± she replied.


    Dexter didn¡¯t get angry and asked, ¡°Do you need my help?¡±


    Josie looked at Arnold, ying with a set of Catholic rosaries, and said, ¡°Nah, everything is fine now.¡±


    Dexter smiled, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for your good news in Wavery.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, a waiter brought a bowl of beef noodles and ced it in front of Arnol


    poked at it with his chopsticks and ranted, ¡°Seriously? These beef noodles cost me 188 bucks, and th


    only two tiny pieces of beef. They might as well go rob!¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie rubbed her forehead and nced toward the restroom. ¡°Mr. Carter, what is it that you want to t


    me? Please stop wasting my precious time.¡±


    Unperturbed, Arnold slurped a mouthful of beef noodles and said, ¡°Xanthe isn¡¯t in Wavery, so there¡¯s n


    need to go.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Josie was surprised. ¡°But all my intel told me she¡¯ll attend this meeting in Wavery.¡±


    Arnold gave her a teasing look. ¡°Do you honestly think Dexter would let you navigate through all of this


    when there are things he doesn¡¯t want you to find out?¡±


    She furrowed her brow. ¡°What do you mean¡­¡±


    He continued slurping his noodles.


    Arnold implied that all the information Josie had received was carefully orchestrated and leaked to her.


    Dexter was the mastermind, pulling the strings behind the scenes. He knew about her involvement and


    deliberately allowed her to be part of the situation.


    Realizing this, Josie felt somewhat defeated. ¡°I don¡¯t understand why he wouldn¡¯t trust me enough to


    share everything. I only¡­ wanted to help him.¡±


    Arnold pulled out a tissue and chivalrously wiped his mouth. ¡°Gotta go. My flight is leaving soon.¡±


    Meanwhile, Wyatt emerged from the restroom and noticed her sitting in a daze. ¡°Ready to go, Josie?¡±


    ¡°¡­Mm, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Since she was already at the airport, ready to board the ne, she decided to take it as a well-


    deserved vacation for herself, considering the hard work she had put in over the past few days.


    Wyatt had been diligently preparing, crafting various ns and strategies, and foreseeing the potential


    challenges that could arise with the investors. Josie was poised and steady and didn¡¯t encounter


    Xanthe as expected.


    However, she was taken aback when she spotted Yanis at the evening banquet.


    Standing not too far away, the spirited elderly man, wearing a hat that revealed a few strands of gray


    and using a cane for support, shed Josie a smile that was contagious in its warmth.


    hair,


    She dressed in a stunning off-shoulder evening gown, and her steps faltered when sheid eyes on


    Yanis. It never crossed her mind that she would encounter him in this ce. Why was he here?


    Confusion swirled in her mind, leaving her unable to make sense of it all.


    She realized this trip might present more challenges than initially anticipated.


    Josie had just finished conversing with another president and was about to take a sip from her wine


    ss when she heard that slightly weathered voice that startled her.


    ¡°Hey, Jo!¡±

 Chapter 277

    Chapter 277


    Chapter 277 She Has Another Son


    Josie turned around and reciprocated Yanis with a superficial smile, ¡°Hi, Uncle Yanis What a


    coincidence. 1 was supposed toe around and say hi to you, but I had.


    Yanis waved off her concern and shed a smile. ¡°What brings you here? I see Wyatt came along with


    you¡¯


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    From the corner of his eye, Yanis noticed Moses, who had been following Josie, casually indulging in


    dessert. Catching Yanis¡¯s gaze, Moses indolently lifted his eyes and locked gazes, showing no hint of


    fear


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you inform me about your visit to Rivodia? I could have made arrangements for you. And


    what about Dex? Did hee with you too?¡±


    Josie shed a smile but didn¡¯t utter a word. At that moment, her understanding of Yanis deepened. He


    wasn¡¯t as gentle as he portrayed himself; he was clearly a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing. I¡¯m only staying for


    a few days. And Uncle, I thought you were supposed to be recovering in Wavery?¡±


    Rumors had it that Yanis had already retired, so why was he attending such a dull and insignificant


    event? Could he still have other business ventures under his belt? Moreover, considering his age, why


    would Yanis personally grace such a mundane banquet?


    Rumors were circting that Yanis had already retired, so why was he attending such a dull and


    insignificant event? Could he still have other business endeavors in progress? Moreover, considering


    his age, why would Yanis bother showing up at such a mundane banquet?


    ¡°Shall we have a chat?¡±


    Yanis¡¯ gesture implied that he was willing to answer her doubts.


    Josie tightened her grip on her cup, a flicker of emotion passing through her eyes as she acquiesced to


    his


    request.


    The conversation took ce in a tea room, with Moses left outside. Yanis wore an indifferent


    expression, clearly defining his role as a spectator.


    ¡°Dex is treating you well. Some things that others can¡¯t achieve even after ten years of hard work, you


    effortlessly obtain,¡± Yanis personally poured tea for Josie, who quickly reached out to ept it, sensing


    a trace of bitterness in his words.


    ¡°Uncle, you should know that having influential connections can sometimese in handy.¡±


    Josie¡¯sment had a teasing tone, prompting Yanis to squint and chuckle.


    He pointed with his finger, ¡°Heard you came to Rivodia today for some financing?¡±


    Josie remained silent, bringing the teacup to her lips and blowing gently.


    Yanis showed no embarrassment or fear in revealing his intentions, as if he were confident that Josie


    wouldn¡¯t divulge their conversation to anyone.


    ¡°Jo,¡± the old man sighed softly. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about Dex¡¯s mother.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got keen ears. Heard about something that happened so long ago.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°If I want to know something, nothing can stop me.¡±


    ¡°Anything else?¡± She suppressed her smile.


    ¡°That woman is conniving and crude. Dex shouldn¡¯t have helped her and gone through all this trouble


    for


    her son.¡±


    Josie narrowed her eyes and stood motionless. ¡°Her son?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? Dex isn¡¯t her only child.¡±


    Josie was left speechless, utterly shocked. Xanthe had another son¡­ Could that be the reason why


    Dexter kept this information hidden from her?


    ¡°Where is he now?¡±


    Yanis simply smiled, refusing to provide any further answers.


    After a brief moment, Josie tilted her head slightly, catching the delightful aroma of the tea with a touch


    of bitterness. She shed a smile and asked, ¡°Uncle, what kind of tea is this?¡±


    Yanis wasn¡¯t clueless and finally broached the subject. ¡°Did you know that most of the guests attending


    the banquet today have business ties with the Carter family?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. This was news to her.


    If true. Arnold wouldn¡¯t easily allow the Russell family to secure their financing. Dexter knew in


    advance. that Wyatt wasing to Rivodia. So why didn¡¯t he intervene? Did he deliberately let them


    go through all this trouble for no apparent reason?

 Chapter 278

    Chapter 278


    Chapter 278 Ambitious


    ¡°I don¡¯t me Dex. He had his reasons for putting you and Wyatt through this, the elderly man sitting


    across stated, ¡°and it¡¯s not a bad thing for him to test and challenge both of you. But¡­ don¡¯t you feel


    exhausted?¡±


    She could sense a keen perception and an understanding that surpassed words in those eyes.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have gotten involved in this affair,¡± Yanis added.


    Josie understood his implication. She leaned forward slightly and asked, ¡°Uncle, what do you have in


    mind?¡±


    ¡°Form a strong alliance,¡± he uttered.


    Eventually, Josie left the tea house with a smile.


    Moses leaned against the wall, smoking, exchanging nces with Yanis¡¯ associates. When he saw


    Josie emerge, he immediately followed her.


    As Josie walked, Yanis¡¯ final words echoed in her mind, ¡°You¡¯re always wee toe back and


    delve into the secrets of tea leaves with me.¡±


    ¡°That day may nevere.¡±


    The pace of development in the 21st century went beyond anyone¡¯s wildest imagination.


    In under an hour, Josie received a call from Dexter. He was probably still up, buried in paperwork, or


    just finishing a conference call.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about Yanis¡¯ deeds in different ces, and it¡¯s surprising how he manages to gather


    supporters despite not being the sharpest tool in the shed,¡± Josie remarked about Yanis.


    Dexter chuckled and said, ¡°It¡¯s all just a facade he puts on. He can¡¯t turn back time, can he?¡±


    Dexter filled Josie in on more of Yanis¡¯ story during their journey to Russell Mansion.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Back in those days, the Russell family had two sons. Dexter¡¯s father was the eldest, and Yanis followed


    in line.


    That was where the perpetual battle began. Yanis and Grant were the only ones constantly at odds.


    After Grant¡¯s passing, Dexter took on his father¡¯s role and carried on the rivalry against Yanis. They¡¯ve


    had numerous secretive conflicts,peting for control over the central power. Yanis never ceased his


    efforts, always striving for greater influence.


    He was an incredibly ambitious figure.


    However, Dexter could never have anticipated that Yanis would have the guts to target Josie and the


    Russell Group.


    Yanis had gone rogue!


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Moses hadn¡¯t spilled the beans to Josie, would she have actually


    agreed


    to team up with Yanis? Truth be told, the offers and perks Yanis presented were quite tempting.


    But there were no ifs, ands, or buts. At least for now, she showed no signs of defiance while talking to


    Josie.


    Dexter¡¯s voice remained as gentle as ever. ¡°Go back to Wavery tomorrow.¡±


    Although Josie had declined Yanis¡¯ proposition, it didn¡¯t mean she dismissed everything he said as


    completely unfounded.


    At the very least, Dexter deliberately made her trip a waste, which held some truth.


    Feeling a sense of guilt, he personally went to the airport the following day, waiting for her in the VIP


    lounge.


    From a distance, he caught sight of Josie. As they closed the gap between them, something felt off.


    Even though they had only been apart for a day, it felt like they hadn¡¯t seen each other in ages. He felt


    a mix of shyness and excitement.


    Dexter took Josie¡¯s luggage from Moses and held her hand. However, Josie, pretending not to notice,


    tucked her hand into her coat pocket. Yet, her gaze toward him seemed innocent, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Behind them, the secretary and Moses witnessed Dexter¡¯s affectionate gesture and his vulnerability,


    ¡°This isn¡¯t right.¡±


    Then, a barely audible apology slipped out. Only a few people caught it. They knew how Dexter would


    make it up to his wife.


    Josie continued to feign ignorance, ¡°What do you mean by ¡®this isn¡¯t right?¡±


    It was like dealing with a child; he smiled helplessly, ¡°Jo¡­¡±


    Josie knew Dexter had his boundaries and didn¡¯t dare to push any further.


    Because every time he yed this game in front of others, he would always make it up to her in bed.


    This man had a mischievous side as if she had done something wrong.

 Chapter 279

    Chapter 279


    Chapter 279 Father¡¯s Physical Reaction


    In the evening. Dexter made a reservation at a seaside restaurant. The sea roared and churned


    outside while starlight shimmered on its surface, creating a poetic ambiance.


    After much deliberation, Josie finally mustered the courage, ¡°I found out something, but I¡¯m not sure if I


    should tell you.¡±


    She had figured it out. Dexter knew her so well he could easily guess what she had discovered and


    what she had been up to. Instead of getting caught, confessing proactively and maintaining her integrity


    was


    better.


    Dexter took a bite of the tender steak and remainedposed. ¡°Oh? What is it about?¡±


    Josie looked at him, choosing her words carefully. ¡°Yanis told me that your mother¡­ has another son.¡±


    His expression remained unchanged as he confessed honestly, a slight smile ying on his lips. ¡°He¡¯s


    five years younger than me and residing in a different country.¡±


    Just a little brat, probably without much experience or skill. No wonder Xanthe paved the way for him


    like


    that.


    ¡°Have you met him?¡±


    ¡°When he turned eighteen. I happened to be on a business trip to Italy and coincidentally ran into him.¡±


    He said lightly as if it didn¡¯t bother him.


    Josie couldn¡¯t imagine how he felt at that time¡­ How did you take it back then?¡±


    ¡°Nothing special. In fact, I had a hunch beforehand. Meeting him was just a confirmation from her.¡±


    It was clear whom he referred to as ¡®her.¡¯


    ¡°What¡¯s he like?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s such a cheerful and energetic young man, always shing a smile when he sees me.¡±


    With a few words, Josie could paint a rough picture. Her heart clenched.


    This was so unfair to Dexter!


    The ssmp above illuminated theposed and sophisticated man before her. Unconsciously,


    Josie felt a surge of empathy toward him.


    She shrugged, trying to appear nonchnt. ¡°Tsk. He¡¯s just a kid, nothing like you. Just ignore him!¡±


    Dexter put down his utensils,ughter escaping him. ¡°You really suck atforting people.¡±


    Josie stuck out her tongue. Consoling others was never her forte. If she had to say something, it would


    be the usual clich¨¦s like, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t be sad, things will get better¡­¡±


    To state the obvious, these words were insincere and unconvincing.


    Josie straightened her posture, ¡°Anyway. I¡¯m on your side. If there¡¯s anything I can do to help, just let


    me know, Mr. Russell.¡±


    The woman¡¯s yful nature made Dexter¡¯s smile deepen. ¡°Just don¡¯t bail when things get tough.¡±


    ¡°Are you kidding me? Not a chance!¡± Josie believed that her journey to Rivodia this time clearly


    demonstrated her sincerity.


    After finishing their meal, they headed back to Mason Garden.


    As they arrived at Mason Garden, they noticed Moses still lingering around.


    ncing at her watch, Josie eximed, ¡°Why are you still here? Do you have something to take care


    of?¡±


    Moses leaned against the car, impatience evident on his face. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me I could leave, did


    you?¡±


    She coughed, exchanging a perplexed look with Dexter beside her, ¡°This is the assistant you assigned


    me. If I didn¡¯t know any better, I¡¯d think he¡¯s the one calling the shots.¡±


    It was hard to read Dexter¡¯s mind.


    He shed a faint smile, ¡°You can leave now. You don¡¯t have to follow as long as she¡¯s with me.¡±


    Moses responded with an ¡®oh¡¯ and gave him a meaningful nce before turning away. ¡°You should


    have told me earlier. It¡¯s expensive to get a taxi at this hour.¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°This guy is such a rebel. It¡¯s rare for him toply. I¡¯m surprised you managed to make him listen to


    you,¡± Josie resignedly shook her head.


    Upon returning to Mason Garden, she headed straight to see her father. The servant who had been


    keeping watch eagerly reported the situation to her.


    ¡°You¡¯re finally back, Mrs. Russell! We¡¯ve noticed several physical reactions from your father over the


    past. few days!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Josie eximed in astonishment, her hand instinctively covering her mouth.

 Chapter 280

    Chapter 280


    Chapter 280 Improved Condition


    The servant showed Josie the surveince footage


    In the surveince footage. Paul¡¯s finger moved a few times. Josie¡¯s face lit up with delight, and she


    quickly saved the clip to send to Matthew to ask about it.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll send Dad to the hospital tomorrow so the doctors can examine him. It¡¯s the first time he¡¯s


    reacted in so many years!¡± Josie twirled around in excitement. After a while, she ran to the master


    bedroom. Dexter had hisptop open and was about to work.


    ¡°Why did you run here?¡± He looked up to stop her.


    Josie stood at the spot, and her eyes sparkled. She said excitedly. ¡°Dexter, my¡­ my.. my dad


    responded!¡±


    She stuttered but was close to tears because of her joy.


    Dexter was calm. He reached out to pull her into an embrace. ¡°Tell me slowly.¡±


    He roughly understood after hearing what she said and agreed with her decision. ¡°I¡¯ll arrange for it in


    the morning.¡±


    Josie took a breath, and she reached out to hug him. ¡°Thank you, Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Why are you thanking me?¡±


    ¡°If not for you, my father wouldn¡¯t have received such good care at this time. Also, the medical team


    you


    dad felt previously arranged for tried their best. Thank you so much,¡± Josie said sincerely, ¡°perhaps my


    that I¡¯m living well now, so he¡¯s going to wake up.¡±


    Dexter stroked her head. He only paid attention to what she said at the end. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re living


    well with me?¡±


    Josie was momentarily silent after he said it. Am I not living well? I¡¯m pretty happy most of the time. But


    am I really living well? I don¡¯t know.


    Even now, as she looked at the man hugging her so gently, she wasn¡¯t sure if he loved her.


    But she was sure she had feelings for him.


    After a brief silence, Dexter¡¯s initial kind gaze dimmed, and he understood something. ¡°Go and take a


    bath. It¡¯s time to sleep.¡±


    Josie opened her mouth. ¡°¡­ Dexter¡­¡± She wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t.


    He opened his mailbox filled with emails he had to deal with. He was engrossed as he read them and


    stopped paying attention to Josie.


    Early the next day, Paul was sent to the hospital. Matthew was also delighted. ¡°This is a good sign.¡±


    While waiting for the check-up results, Josie was lost in thought in the corridor. Matthew sat beside her


    after he was done.


    Improved Condition


    ¡°What¡¯s up? Are you upset about something?¡±


    She leaned against the wall and stared nkly. ¡°Matt, what is considered living well


    Matthew muttered. To ordinary people, having a healthy family and enough money. Having a partner


    would be good too. I think that would be living well. But of course, it would be great to have love ton


    A healthy family. Josie didn¡¯t have family members other than her dad. Those in the Russell family


    seemed rtively healthy.


    Having enough money. Dexter¡¯s wealth ranked first in Forbes¡¯ lists. She had more than enough. Dexter


    spent extravagantly and treated her well.


    But Josie wasn¡¯t sure if he loved her.


    She wanted to ask but suddenly stopped when she saw Matthew¡¯s distressed gaze.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Matt¡­¡±


    Matthew smiled bitterly. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t ask me this question, Jo. After all, I¡¯m still unmarried.¡±


    Josie felt slightly embarrassed. She never knew how to respond to the way he treated her differently.


    She could only apologize.


    The results from the check-up were released in the afternoon. It showed that all of Paul¡¯s signs were


    good, and it was possible for him to wake up. Dexter¡¯s medical team eximed that it was a miracle.


    She was delighted.

 Chapter 281

    Chapter 281


    Chapter 281 To Make You Jealous


    After discussing it with the doctors, Josie agreed to let her dad stay in the hospital for observation.


    Before leaving, she suddenly thought of something She asked Matthew, ¡®Did the woman from thest


    time that I previously visitede for a follow-up visit?


    Matthew thought about it. ¡°Yes. Why?


    ¡°How is her recovery?


    ¡°Everything goes well. The woman didn¡¯t suffer major injuries. She¡¯ll be alright after resting for a few


    days


    After he said that, Josie was utterly relieved. She was thankful to Laura for saving her, so it was only


    natural that she wanted to find out about Laura¡¯s condition. Josie found it strange that Laura had been


    silent for the past few days.


    And Arnold. He said he was going to London that day at the airport. Was it to see Summer?


    She had too many unanswered questions. Josie couldn¡¯t figure it out, so she gave up.


    When leaving the hospital, she entered the elevator and bumped into a familiar figure.


    The other party was supported by crutches and looked down at her cell phone, seeming downcast. She


    subconsciously looked up when she saw someone walk in and couldn¡¯t look away.


    Josie.¡±


    Her sudden voice startled Josie. Josie narrowed her eyes and recognized the woman. ¡°Lillian?¡±


    Lillian had a report in her hands. She must have been there for her leg.


    Lillian pleaded with her. ¡°Do you know where Arnold is now?


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    With how she looked and sounded, she seemed to have been abandoned. For a moment, Josie didn¡¯t


    know how to answer her. ¡°What¡¯s up with you? I thought you were his assistant.¡±


    ¡°Assistant?¡± Lillianughed sarcastically. ¡°I was just his mistress, at best. He threw me away when he


    got


    tired of me.¡±


    The elevator descended quickly. Josie didn¡¯t know what to think of Arnold¡¯s private matters.


    He was clearly a liberal and unconventional man. It was a huge mistake to believe what he said.


    ¡°Ist saw him at the airport. He seemed to be going on a business trip. I¡¯m not sure where.¡± Josie tried


    to


    answer.


    ¡°He went to see that woman.¡± Lillian was confident. She thought of something andughed at herself


    again. ¡°I thought he loves that woman the most, but it might not be true.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand.


    Lillian stared at her. ¡°Do you remember that he kissed me when you came to his officest time?¡±


    Josie was dumbstruck. It was hard to forget.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he saw you earlier and deliberately kissed me so you would see.¡±


    Josie thought Lillian¡¯s words were absurd. She didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Why did he do that?¡±


    Lillian¡¯s gaze was cold and meaningful. ¡°Perhaps he wanted to make you jealous.¡±


    +5 Bonus


    Josie felt baffled. She was self-aware enough to know that Arnold had only made use of her and put on


    an act. He had no feelings for her. How could it have been to make her jealous?


    Lillian didn¡¯t borate when she saw that Josie didn¡¯t believe her. Before the elevator doors opened,


    Lillian said, ¡°We have such different lives.¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded.


    She couldn¡¯t figure out Lillian¡¯s words while walking to the parking lot.


    Moses had been waiting in front of the car for a long time and was slightly impatient. ¡°Why did you take


    so long? I¡¯m famished.¡±


    Josie kicked him in irritation. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with waiting? It¡¯s not like you¡¯ll die from hunger.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, but I¡¯m really starving.¡± He was stubborn and like a thug.


    Josieughed in her rage. ¡°What do you want to eat for lunch? It¡¯s my treat.¡±


    ¡°Anything? Japanese food.¡±


    ¡°For lunch? You must have a great appetite.¡±

 Chapter 282

    Chapter 282


    Chapter 282 Bumping into Mrs Langman


    Moses was tired from following her for the past few days, so Josie didn¡¯t turn him down. They went to


    eat Japanese food.


    After they were full, Josie paid the bill at the cashier while he was in the washroom. She suddenly


    heard at voice behind her. ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t used to such a greeting. She didn¡¯t realize it was directed at her.


    The woman behind her tapped her shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s me.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. She turned and was astonished to see Mrs. Langman, whom she had met at a


    gathering. Mrs. Langman was as stout as usual. She smiled and asked Josie, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mrs. Langman.¡± Josie thought of how she had been humiliated that day and felt slightly uneasy. ¡°I was


    eating with my colleague.¡±


    Mrs. Langman nodded. ¡°Oh. You¡¯re quite free.


    She looked like a rich housewife who stayed home and didn¡¯t look very devious.


    Josie looked behind Mrs. Langman. ¡°Aren¡¯t you quite free too, Mrs. Langman? Are you eating


    Japanese food for lunch?¡±


    Mrs. Langman leaned closer and said. ¡°I¡¯m here with my husband for business. The other party is a


    woman, and he said bringing me along would make things easier. Ultimately, they discussed their


    business, and I couldn¡¯t join in. I came out for some air but never thought I¡¯d meet you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°Mr. Langman must be tired with his hectic workload.¡±


    ¡°Tired? I think he loves it. That woman is pretty, but she¡¯s older. Otherwise, I would be worried,¡± Mrs.


    Langman said disinterestedly as she nced at their private room.


    Josie frowned. She noticed something, but she didn¡¯t ask further,


    After making small talk with Mrs. Langman for a little longer, Moses returned and left with Josie.


    Josie stopped after a few steps. ¡°Think of a way and help me find out who the person in Room 405 is.¡±


    She sat on a bench by the road for around fifteen minutes before Moses returned hurriedly. He handed


    her a photo. ¡°I tried my best but only managed a picture at this angle.¡±


    The photo was hazy, but Josie recognized the woman.


    After ncing at the picture, Josie tore it up and threw it into the trash.


    As expected, it was Xanthe.


    ¡°Did you hear what they were talking about?¡±


    Moses thought about it. ¡°It¡¯s the same things you and Wyatt discussed a few days ago.¡±


    Bumping into Mrs Langman


    He spoke generally, but Josie understood it.


    She should have been preparing to enter the domestic market, but Dexter promised to help. Why w


    Xanthe still taking such great pains?


    Could it be that she didn¡¯t trust her son?


    At night, Josie went to Russell Mansion to visit Old Mr. Russell. The old man couldn¡¯t stand the cold, so


    he was wrapped in a nket. Josie made him a cup of hot tea to warm his hands.


    Dex has been busy with work recently, so he entrusted me to visit you. I hope you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell shook his head. ¡°Ah, what are you talking about? I don¡¯t want to see him. I¡¯m happier to


    see you.¡±


    Josie broke intoughter. ¡°Dex will be sad if he heard it.¡±


    She didn¡¯t need to do anything since Marilyn and the other servants were at Russell Mansion. She kept


    Old Mr. Russellpany as they chatted and drank tea.


    1


    ¡°Grandpa, I recently saw Dex¡¯s mother¡­¡± Josie asked hesitantly, ¡°I found out something about her


    other son. With this premise, how much do you think we can trust her?¡±


    Old Mr. Russell¡¯s smile dimmed slightly. ¡°I never thought you would find out about it so quickly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. This isn¡¯t a secret to nie. Why wasn¡¯t I told from the beginning?¡±


    ¡°Jo, Xanthe is a painful memory to Dex. I think he doesn¡¯t want others to know anything about her.¡± Old


    Mr. Russell¡¯s voice sounded pained.

 Chapter 283

    Chapter 283


    Chapter 283 Always Keeping Watch for Him


    ¡°But I¡¯m not others,¡± she said quickly.


    ¡°You¡¯ve already found out.¡±


    Josie was bbergasted.


    After a brief silence, Old Mr. Russell put his teacup down. ¡°Fifty percent. She¡¯s swift and decisive when


    working and reaches her goals by any means necessary. She¡¯s trustworthy at work, but don¡¯t trust her


    too much for personal matters.¡±


    Josie was silent. She didn¡¯t understand at all. No matter what, Dexter was Xanthe¡¯s flesh and blood.


    They were mother and son. How could she not love him?


    ¡°Jo, you¡¯re the only person Dex can trust right now. You should never hold him back.¡±


    Josie nodded. ¡°I understand.¡±


    After she went home, she immediately contacted Mrs. Langman, asking her out for afternoon tea.


    ¡°I only found out after going home that Mr. Langman¡¯s social engagement yesterday was rted to


    Russell Group. Therefore, Dexter told me I must entertain you well, Mrs. Langman. It was my


    oversight.¡± Josie ttered her.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Russell Group?¡± Mrs. Langman was perplexed.


    ¡°Yes. Don¡¯t you know? Ms. Quorn works with Russell Group. We¡¯re preparing for emerce in the


    spring.¡± Josie handed Mrs. Langman a document. It was left behind from when she previously


    researched. with Wyatt.


    Mrs. Langman didn¡¯t understand. She believed Josie after skimming the document. ¡°I see. What a


    coincidence.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Josie said with a smile, ¡°however¡­ I asked you out today because I have something


    important to ask of you.¡±


    She pretended to feel awkward, and it piqued Mrs. Langman¡¯s curiosity. ¡°What is it?


    ¡°I don¡¯t like to gossip, but Ms. Quorn from yesterday is different in private. I feel like I had to warn you.


    Mrs. Langman.¡±


    Mrs. Langman was astonished when she heard it. ¡°She¡¯s different in private? What does that mean?


    From what I saw, she was guarded and carried herself well.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Langman, we are both women. We know what type of women men like. Was Mr. Langman


    praising her to high heaven yesterday?¡± Josie steered the conversation.


    Mrs. Langman thought about it and hit her thigh. ¡°Yes, he did.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Quorn returned from overseas and is very well sought after.¡± Josie handed her an envelope. In it


    were photographs Moses had collected of Xanthe with men on various asions.


    Always Keeping Watch for Him


    Xanthe didn¡¯t overstep any boundaries, but it was easy to be suspicious when the pictures were put


    together.


    Just as Josie had expected, Mrs. Langman was astonished. ¡°Tsk, what am I going to do? She asked


    my husband out for a gathering tomorrow at Mandarin Oriental.¡±


    Josie understood. ¡°Oh? Mandarin Oriental? I think there¡¯s no harm in him going. I don¡¯t think anything


    will happen in public.¡±


    But Mrs. Langman refused. ¡°No way. I must go with him. I¡¯m worried!¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t move. She sipped her tea and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Mrs. Langman grabbed Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mandarin Oriental is Dexter¡¯s territory. Why don¡¯t


    youe with me?¡±


    Josie initially had a doubtful expression but agreed in a split second. She nodded cheerfully. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll


    go with you, Mrs. Langman.¡±


    At night, Dexter video-called Josie. ¡°The person in charge at Mandarin Oriental said you have an


    appointment tomorrow.¡±


    Josie was annoyed. ¡°Why does news spread so quickly? They should call me to confirm since it¡¯s my


    appointment. Why did they call you?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s camera shook. It was blurred, but she could still see Dexter¡¯s cold appearance. ¡°Why are you


    going there?¡±


    Josie held her head up with one hand and looked indifferent. ¡°Mrs. Langman is amiable. She asked me


    to y cards with her and the other wives.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going? That doesn¡¯t seem like you.¡±


    Josie was amused. ¡°It¡¯s because of you. They decided to meet in Mandarin Oriental and said it¡¯s your


    territory. How could I turn them down as Mrs. Russell?¡±

 Chapter 284

    Chapter 284


    Chapter 284 Losing Tokens


    Dexter smiled lightly on the other end. ¡°Very convincing.¡±


    ¡°Therefore, I¡¯m keeping up appearances for your sake. Aren¡¯t you thankful?¡±


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The man raised a teacup by his side and bumped it into the camera. ¡°Thank you so much, Mrs.


    Russell.¡±


    Josie smiled as she stared earnestly at the man on her screen.


    ¡°When are you returning to Wavery?¡±


    He didn¡¯t bat an eyelid. ¡°Within these two days.¡±


    Josie deliberately dressed up the following day before she headed to Mandarin Oriental with Mrs.


    Langman.


    Other women were at the gathering, but it was clear who was in control at one nce.


    Josie and Mrs. Langman held hands, and their gazes fell on the woman at the poker table. ¡°We meet


    again, Ms. Quorn.¡±


    A cigarette hung from Xanthe¡¯s mouth. When she saw Josie, a glint appeared in her eyes. ¡°You are?¡±


    Josie choked. She never thought Xanthe would be so ungracious.


    Mrs. Langman was smart enough to smooth things over immediately. ¡°This is Mrs. Russell from


    Russell. Group. She came with me. You¡¯re not angry, are you, Langinan?¡±


    She nudged Mr. Langman¡¯s arm coyly in just the right manner.


    Mr. Langman saw Josie¡¯s face and immediately shook his head. ¡°Of course not. Since there are more


    women now, you can take my ce. Have fun.¡±


    Josie was pulled to sit down, and she sat facing Xanthe. She knew these people weren¡¯t being


    gracious to her but to Dexter.


    ¡°Do you know how to y poker, Mrs. Russell?¡± Xanthe asked indifferently as she looked at her cards.


    ¡°A little. Don¡¯t me me if I¡¯m bad at it, Ms. Quorn.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re just having fun. We won¡¯t makerge bets. Don¡¯t take it seriously,¡± Mrs. Langman immediately


    said as she sized up Xanthe¡¯s expression.


    ¡°We¡¯re in Mandarin Oriental. Since we¡¯re ying, it¡¯s only natural to makerge bets. I won¡¯t y if


    we¡¯re not makingrge bets.¡± Xanthe was utterly discourteous, and her gaze was fixed on Josie.


    Josie pretended to be calm. ¡°That makes sense.¡± She called a server over. ¡°Bring me a box of casino


    tokens and put it on Mr. Russell¡¯s tab.¡±


    Xanthe raised her brows. ¡°You¡¯re so willing to spend Mr. Russell¡¯s money, Mrs. Russell. You must be


    living happily.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I have a great life.¡± Josie smiled


    While waiting for the server to return. Xanthe and Mr. Langman discussed business matters and quickly


    signed a contract. Josie was shrewd and typed a message to Wyatt on her cell phone.


    When the server returned, he put the casino tokens on the table.


    Xanthe asked. ¡°I heard you went to Rivodia a few days ago, Mrs. Russell. How was it?¡±


    You¡¯re well-informed, Ms. Quorn Josie was astonished. She never thought Xanthe would keep an eye


    on her. ¡°I worked hard and rushed around for my boss but received nothing. I just made some


    connections.¡±


    Xanthe raised her bet. ¡°You studied design, Mrs. Russell. How did you get involved in emerce?¡±


    ¡°There are simrities. Just like you, Ms. Quorn. You used to be a housewife, but you now have at


    sessful business,¡± Josie replied calmly as she raised her bet.


    Mrs. Langman didn¡¯t know about the personal grudges between the two. She thought Josie was just


    venting for her sake.


    Xanthe¡¯s gaze at Josie grew more thoughtful. Xanthe said with a faint smile, ¡°You¡¯re young and


    promising. It seems like Russell Group¡¯s fate in the future may very well lie in your hands, Mrs.


    Russell.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t answer or change the subject.


    ¡°When are you nning on having children?¡±


    Josie finally looked Xanthe in the eye when she heard it. For a moment, Josie didn¡¯t know if Xanthe


    was asking her as a mother-inw or a bystander.


    We have no ns for children for the time being.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Russell is still young. There¡¯s no rush. She can have children any time.¡± Mrs. Langman


    interrupted. ¡°She¡¯s not old and faded like us. We can¡¯t have children even if we want to.¡±


    Everyoneughed.

 Chapter 285

    Chapter 285


    Chapter 285 n Early


    Josie was slightly embarrassed and didn¡¯t join in.


    Xanthe kept looking at her. ¡°You should give birth while you¡¯re young. You can¡¯t tie men like Mr. Russell


    down without children. What do you think, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Everyone revealed their cards. Xanthe won.


    Josie couldn¡¯t retaliate. She immediately lost her stack of casino tokens.


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a rush. I¡¯m confident. It¡¯s sad to see women tying men down by having children.¡± She didn¡¯t


    back down. Only Xanthe understood Josie¡¯s taunting.


    Xanthe sneered.


    The servers replenished her casino tokens. Josie was surprised. ¡°I don¡¯t want anymore.¡±


    ¡°I understand. Mr. Russell instructed us to do so. He means for you to y as much as you want. He


    will


    support you.¡±


    Everyone was surprised at how much Dexter doted on his newly-married wife.


    Xanthe had an awful expression, and Josie felt much better. ¡°Great.¡±


    Unfortunately, she was terrible at poker. She lost two stacks of casino tokens in less than two hours.


    Everyone repeatedly teased Josie that Dexter had married an airheaded beauty.


    Josie smiled, but she was feeling agonized.


    Although she wasn¡¯t paying for it, she had lost a lot of money, after all.


    After losing a significant amount, Josie picked up her bag and bid everyone farewell. Mrs. Langman


    was slightly embarrassed. ¡°Thank you for today, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie forced a smile and shook her head. ¡°No problem.¡±


    Xanthe extinguished her cigarette. ¡°Let me leave with you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Mandarin Oriental was brightly lit. The two women were dazzling as they walked together.


    Xanthe looked imposing and experienced, while Josie looked like her daughter standing next to her.


    ¡°My car is waiting for me downstairs. I¡¯ll be leaving, Ms. Quorn.¡± Josie said as she left the private room.


    ¡°Why? You were quite shrewd just now. Don¡¯t you dare to face me now?¡± Xanthe turned to the side and


    provoked Josie.


    Josie received a message on her cell phone. It was from Dexter. I just got off the ne.¡¯


    He¡¯s back today? Josie was surprised.


    far out her reply when Xanthe interrupted her. ¡°Did your parents never tell you not to y


    with your cell phone when your elders speak to you?¡±


    Josie raised her head in bewilderment. ¡°I remember I told you about my farmily. Have you forgotten?


    As expected, your memory declines as you age. I rmend eating more walnuts, Ms. Quorn¡±


    Xanthe was taken aback, and sheughed in her rage. She crossed her arms before her. ¡°I won¡¯t be


    fooled by young girls¡¯ cheap tricks.¡±


    Josie felt wary.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie pitied Xanthe slightly when she found out about Xanthe¡¯s story. Xanthe wasn¡¯t a terrible person,


    but Josie¡¯s good impression of Xanthe immediately disappeared when she found out that Xanthe had


    another


    son.


    They were both Xanthe¡¯s sons. Why did she discriminate between them?


    ¡°So can¡­ I leave yet?¡±


    Xanthe pursed her lips and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Josie turned and walked to the elevator. A voice rang behind her. ¡°Take to heart what I said just now.


    You better n ahead to get pregnant and tie Dexter down.¡±


    Xanthe was so out of touch with reality. Josie turned to the side. ¡°Why? Will you push your other son up


    the ranks if I don¡¯t want to get pregnant?¡±


    Xanthe narrowed her eyes..


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If I have a child, I won¡¯t ignore them for years.¡±


    The elevator doors opened, and Josie immediately entered the elevator.


    She only breathed a sigh of relief after leaving Mandarin Oriental. She walked to the bus stop nearby.


    She had lost too much money today and felt guilty, so she wanted to save money.


    Her thoughts wandered after she faced such high pressure. She swayed on the public bus for a while


    and remembered she hadn¡¯t replied to Dexter.


    Her cell phone had been on silent mode. She had many missed calls, and all of them were from Dexter.


    She was startled and realized that she was halfway through typing her reply. I¡¯m almost-


    She wanted to say that she was almost done.


    But Xanthe had interrupted her, so she hadn¡¯tpleted her sentence.


    It was no wonder that Dexter was so anxious.

 Chapter 286

    Chapter 286


    Chapter 286 1 Acknowledge That You¡¯re an Airhead


    Josie was a lot more clear-headed, and she immediately called him back. He answered at once.


    ¡°Where see you?¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t paying attention just now. I¡¯m almost at Mason Garden!¡±


    At the airport, Dexter slowed down as he was heading to his car. His breathing dowed, and he kept


    quiet as he heard the noise on her end.


    His panic, unease, and worry disappeared when he heard her voice.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    He was restraining himself to avoid losing his temper at Josie. His manic tendencies were roused when


    he thought she might have been in trouble.


    He had almost confronted Xanthe.


    Dexter felt his head pulsating, and he felt suffocated. He sounded frustrated. ¡°Wait for me at the


    intersection after you get off the bus. I¡¯ming now.¡±


    Josie felt the man¡¯s anger, but she couldn¡¯t say anything since he was restraining himself. ¡°Okay¡±


    Dexter drove faster than the bus. When Josie arrived, she saw his car parked by the road.


    Many people got off the bus, and there was an unpleasant odor.


    The man stood beside a rustling path of trees. He gestured for Josie toe over. ¡°Why did you lose


    contact with Moses?¡±


    Josie immediately thought of how she had forgotten Moses in the parking lot. ¡°I forgot. I was lost in


    thought.¡±


    Dexter quickly restrained his emotions. Ultimately, he didn¡¯t do anything as he looked at her. Dexter


    didn¡¯t take her cell phone. He pulled her hand and put it in his palm. Upon closer inspection, he


    sounded slightly displeased. ¡°Your hands are cold.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t move, and she froze. She asked softly, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    What happened? Why is he looking for me so anxiously?


    Dexter stayed silent and turned to put his arms around her shoulder. He said, ¡°Get in.¡±


    Josie was slightly cautious. ¡°I lost a lot of your money at Mandarin Oriental today¡­


    He snorted coldly. ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°The money¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay me back.¡± He was slightly exasperated.


    Josie¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°They said that Mr. Russell married an airheaded beauty.¡±


    ¡°I acknowledge the airheaded part,¡± Dexter said with a smile.


    I Acknowledge That You¡¯re an Airhead


    ¡°You! What a hateful person.


    At this time, a few young girls were standing around thirty feet away from them. They were taking


    photos of themselves by the road when one of them saw something out of the corner of her eye.


    Confused, the walked forward, and her friends asked her, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    The girl looked up and pulled her friends closer. ¡°Oh my god¡­ Tell me if I¡¯m seeing this correctly. Isn¡¯t


    that Dexter Russell?¡±


    Dexter was talking to a woman while holding her hands. As he spoke, he tapped the woman¡¯s forehead


    lightly. His actions were dignified, but his protective posture was evident.


    ¡°Oh my god!¡± Someone covered their mouth. It was unimaginable to them.


    Dexter¡¯s face was revealed and could be easily recognized. The car beside him had a showy car te.


    It couldn¡¯t have belonged to anyone else.


    ¡°Why are you staring nkly? Quickly take pictures!¡±


    The group of girls was dumbstruck.


    Dexter still had to return to Russell Group today. They returned to Mason Garden and ate. After Josie


    showered and changed her clothes, he took her to Russell Group.


    ¡°It¡¯s not good if we¡¯re seen.¡±


    Dexter was putting on gloves for Josie. He said indifferently, ¡°Moses is afraid that I will punish him, so


    he¡¯s now at Russell Group and doesn¡¯t dare to meet me. What¡¯s wrong with hitching a ride with me,


    Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Josie was dumbfounded. She wouldn¡¯t have known why he was suddenly in a bad temper if he didn¡¯t


    say anything. It wasn¡¯t easy to deal with someone of his stature when he wasshing out.


    So she did as he wanted.


    When Dexter opened the car door, he put his hand on her head, afraid that she would hit her head.

 Chapter 287

    Chapter 287


    Chapter 287 Exposed Again


    Josie faintly heard the man mumble softly, ¡°How long can he hide? I will catch hold of him sooner or


    later. He will be punished either way.¡±


    Josie was annoyed and amused. Why is this man like a child sometimes?


    In the car, Josie tried to bring up Xanthe and assessed her. ¡°I think she¡¯s strange.¡±


    The vehicle entered the tunnel, and the light flickered on the man¡¯s face. She vaguely felt that he was


    astonishingly like a boy.


    It was a shame that he wasn¡¯t. His voice was cold. ¡°Since you find the woman strange, you¡¯re not


    allowed to meet with her from today onward unless necessary.¡±


    He turned to look at her. ¡°Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Mm.¡± Josie said, ¡°I¡¯ve investigated. There¡¯s nothing wrong with this project.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t look at her to reply. When the car stopped, he leaned close to loosen her seat belt. When


    he looked up, he gave her a peck on her pink lips. ¡°Be careful.¡±


    Josie was caught off guard. Thankfully, it was dark, and there weren¡¯t many people around. She red


    at him and grumbled coyly.


    Dexter smirked. He looked like a quintessential bad boy, just like John Travolta in the movie ¡®Grease.


    They didn¡¯t know that a series of photos had spread rapidly online and trended quickly in the past few


    hours.


    The hashtag used was #MrsRussell Revealed.


    Dexter and Josie were in the path of withered trees, and it contrasted against a nket of snow. He


    was holding her hands, and their actions were intimate. The smile on his face had never been seen


    with other rumored partners.


    The photos that the girls took were photoshopped and edited. On top of Dexter¡¯s natural good looks,


    his feelings for the woman in the pictures looked genuine.


    Everyone was taken aback.


    On Twitter, the girls had said they didn¡¯t get a picture of the woman, not because they were worried but


    because they were at the wrong angle. If they had gone any closer, they would have been discovered.


    Furthermore, they left shortly.


    The tweet received countless replies. ¡®Oh, my god. His smile and his gaze. This woman was previously


    revealed at Mason Garden, right?


    ¡®She has a great figure and seems to have long hair?¡±


    ¡®Oh, my god. I¡¯m suddenly more curious about this woman!


    Exposed Again


    and doing the unthinkable!¡±


    Dexter arrived at the top floor in his private elevator. Before he entered his office, he saw Moses run


    over hurriedly. Moses said anxiously. ¡°Mr. Russell, there¡¯s an urgent matter. It¡¯s about Mrs. Russell..


    Dexter looked straight at him.


    ¡°¡­ Mrs. Russell has been exposed online!¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie and Dexter discovered simultaneously that they had been exposed on the Inte.


    Before lunch break ended, Josie heard a group of people discussing loudly as she entered her office.


    Alice came out of the break room with an awful expression.


    Josie bumped into her. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Alice pursed her lips and was dejected. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    At this time, a male colleague eximed, ¡°With such a figure, it¡¯s no wonder that Dexter married her!¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank immediately.


    Her expression changed, and she stopped questioning Alice. She turned and checked Twitter for


    herself.


    It was as viral as when Dexter was photographed during New Year¡¯s. Twitter was filled with pictures of


    her and Dexter standing under a tree. Thankfully¡­ the branches hid her face. Thankfully.


    Her heart was suspended. This time was different. Regardless of whether her face was revealed, she


    had been exposed.


    And the pictures were clear. Josie¡¯s acquaintances were bound to recognize her.

 Chapter 288

    Chapter 288


    Chapter 288 Take the Trends Down


    ¡°Jo?¡±


    Alice leaned close and saw the photos on Josie¡¯s screen. She sighed heavily behind Josie. ¡°Ah. Mr.


    Russell¡¯s gaze. As it turns out, there¡¯s a Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t hear what Alice said. She sighed slightly. Thankfully, she had showered and changed her


    clothes at Mason Garden¡­


    She shouldn¡¯t have appeared publicly with that man.


    Regardless if it was in the entertainment circle or the business world, anything Dexter did could make


    big waves. Although no one knew where the news came from, everyone guessed that the dignified,


    affluent man was already married.


    As the hashtag #TheGoodLookingRussells trended, Russell Group¡¯s stock prices rose a few points in


    session. Their seemingly stable marriage quickly invoked the trust of stock investors,


    This benefitted Russell Group and brought no harm to them.


    The secretary felt slightly pained. ¡°Mr. Russell, are we really going to take them down?¡±


    Dexter sat in his office, and his voice was cold. ¡°You¡¯ve made many mistakes today.¡±


    His secretary immediately kept quiet. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She instructed the public rtions department to take down all the news online and not respond.


    She understood Dexter well enough. He actually didn¡¯t want to take it down. It had nothing to do with


    profit. He just didn¡¯t want to hide Josie.


    But Josie didn¡¯t want to be exposed. He understood the various reasons. Although Dexter felt reluctant,


    he wouldn¡¯t force her. He would do everything ording to her wishes.


    Arnold, who hadn¡¯t contacted Josie for a long time, initiated a phone call after Russell Group took


    down. the trending topics. The first thing he said was, ¡°Did you ask to take down the news?¡±


    Josie found out about this before she got hold of Dexter. She asked, ¡°It¡¯s been taken down?¡±


    Arnold answered, ¡°Mm. Do you know that Dexter and I have been taking turns to short sales recently?


    Although we haven¡¯t lost any money, the chain of reactions resulting from today¡¯s news can make him.


    rx.¡±


    Josie was startled when she heard Arnold¡¯s slightly slow voice. She said, ¡°I didn¡¯t ask him to take it


    down.¡±


    There was briefughter on the other end. ¡°Alright. I understand.¡±


    As it turned out, Josie was the powerful man¡¯s soft spot.


    When everyone online saw that the trend #MrandMrs Russell was disappearing, they discussed it.


    ¡®Russell Group is making their move. It seems like she might not be Mrs. Russell. Perhaps these


    photos were just for show?


    After ending the call, Arnold stared at the scenery far away and was lost in thought. His mighty figure


    looked lonely. No one knew what he was thinking about.


    Shortly, a woman¡¯s soft hands climbed onto his shoulders and neck. ¡°What are you thinking of,


    Arnold?¡±


    The woman was in a white nightgown and had a slim figure. Her wrists were delicate, and she looked


    frail and pale.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± The man¡¯s sharp gaze fell on her gauze-wrapped wrist. His voice was


    uncharacteristically gentle.


    The woman was startled. She looked down and avoided his gaze. ¡°You me me.¡±


    Arnold suddenly turned and grabbed her wrists. He pointed at them. ¡°It¡¯s been so many years. Until


    when will you degrade yourself? Take a look. Are these a woman¡¯s hands?¡±


    Scars covered her fair and supple arms.


    The woman fell on the couch and suddenly shrieked hysterically. ¡°Then what do you want me to do?! If


    I didn¡¯t do this, which of you would have been willing toe to see me?! Even your visits have


    decreased in these two years. I¡¯m hurting here, Arnold! It hurts!¡±


    She pointed at her heart, and her tears fell like the rain. She looked pitiful.


    Arnold shut his eyes. ¡°Must it be him, Sum?¡±

 Chapter 289

    Chapter 289


    Chapter 289 Working Independently


    Wyatt took up such a big project independently right after joining Russell Group. It was inevitable that


    others would be jealous of him.


    When Josie came to the thirty-fifth floor, it waste at night. Wyatt sat in the office, and theputer¡¯s


    light reflected on his face. He seemed highly focused.


    This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She leaned against the door and watched for a while. Wyatt felt her gaze and raised his head. He was


    slightly surprised. ¡°Josie?¡±


    Josie immediately looked behind her. He smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m the only one in the office at this hour. No


    one will hear me.¡±


    Josie shrugged in exasperation. ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing my due diligence for the project.¡±


    ¡°Alone?¡± From what she remembered, he must have had partners to help him with such a big project.


    However, Wyatt always seemed to be alone.


    ¡°I can do it by myself.¡± Wyatt smiled indifferently. ¡°By the way, the application we invested in is about to


    go on the market. As a matter of fact, you¡¯ve contributed a lot, Josie.¡±


    Josie was slightly overwhelmed. ¡°I¡¯m thankful I didn¡¯t trouble you previously. How could I have


    contributed?¡±


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t do your best and keep watch over my aunt, we wouldn¡¯t have moved so quickly.¡± Wyatt


    was generous with his praise. It went without saying who his aunt was.


    Josie mumbled, ¡°I just wanted to ask you something. Is Russell Group shorting sales with Carter Group


    recently?¡±


    Wyatt turned to look at her. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    It seemed like Arnold had told her the truth.


    Dexter had given up the chance to retaliate. Instead, he got rid of the rumors.


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure how she was feeling, but she felt warm.


    He didn¡¯t seem to only care about profit, after all.


    Around a week after the rumors were released, the media widely promoted the emerce application


    Russell Group had invested in. It initially had good reception, and it became increasingly popr. Even


    Dexter didn¡¯t anticipate such a response. Dexter had initially given it to Wyatt to train him. It would be


    great if Wyatt could seed, but it wasn¡¯t a big deal if he failed.


    In the end, Wyatt hadn¡¯t let Dexter down.


    Russell Group set up a special meeting, and Josie was invited to join. She initially thought it was an


    ordinary meeting, but it was unusual. Dexter tapped on his keyboard before him, and his screen was


    immediately projected onto the projection screen.


    Working Independently


    He spoke expressionlessly. ¡°Can you do it if I gave you funding and resources, then asked you to go


    out and develop it on your own?¡±


    Wyatt was taken aback when he heard it. His first instinct was to look at Josic, but she seemed as


    surprised as him. Wyatt furrowed his brows slightly. ¡°Go out?¡±


    Go out and leave Russell Group. In other words, Dexter wanted Wyatt to work independently with a


    team.


    Working independently with a core team should only have happened when profit was affected or if


    there was a disagreement within the team. But the team was on good terms at present.


    Dexter was fair at work and wouldn¡¯t involve his personal feelings, but this happened so suddenly.


    Josie looked at the man at the seat of honor slightly reproachfully. Why didn¡¯t he mention such a


    decision to her beforehand?


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± Wyatt was dumbstruck in front of everyone. ¡°With my experience, it¡¯s too early to do


    that.¡±


    The secretary passed a document for everyone else to look at. ¡°It¡¯s still affiliated with Russell Group,


    and we will continue providing you funding and resources. You can choose to reinvest. Russell Group


    can be considered a small subsidiarypany. If you flourish in the future, Russell Group will transfer


    all the e-merce projects to you.¡±

 Chapter 290

    Chapter 290


    Chapter 290 Asking to Return the Favor


    Wyatt and Josie¡¯s surprise turned to shock. They clearly understood Dexter¡¯s intention. He thought


    highly of Wyatt!


    Josie flipped through the document and heard the man¡¯s calm and maic voice. ¡°But there¡¯s a


    prerequisite, of course. It¡¯s the same thing. While testing the waters, your profits must exceed nine


    figures in six months.¡±


    Wyatt was dumbstruck.


    Everyone suddenly had no desire to flip through the document. They knew Dexter was being strict.


    How could Wyatt easily pass Dexter¡¯s test?


    Josie quickly looked through the document but found it eptable. Wyatt nodded. ¡°If you think highly of


    me, Mr. Wyatt, I will try my best.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved slightly. No one understood what his smile meant.


    He got up and left the meeting room. He still had many things to do.


    After the meeting ended, Josie had the urge to call the nasty man. But she changed her mind when she


    thought of how he probably had another meeting.


    Word spreads fast in the business world. Dexter¡¯s high regard for Wyatt quickly circted, and Wyatt¡¯s


    publicity in recent days gained him considerable fame.


    Everyone was saying that Dexter was grooming Wyatt as a sessor.


    Josie had just finished her workte at night. Various departments in Russell Group were working hard


    on recent projects, and the design department was also involved. The highlight of the emerce live


    stream was a suite in a Russell Group building.


    She was done with her preparation. Wyatt bumped into Dexter when he came down to get information.


    ¡°Why are you here, Mr. Russell?¡±


    The man sat in Josie¡¯s seat. He was in a tailored suit.


    With a faint smile, he said, ¡°I came to pick up Josie. Is everything going well?¡±


    Josie¡¯sputer was password protected. Dexter typed in her birthday but failed.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Wyatt handed Dexter a cup of coffee. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    Dexter kept quiet. He typed in his birthday but failed again.


    Dexter tried their wedding anniversary date but to no avail. He smiled in exasperation and gave up.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Josie?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen her. She just informed me toe here and take the information.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t ask further and let Wyatt go. Afterward, he tidied her messy desk, straightened her


    documents, and put her stationery andptop aside.


    Josie had just returned from the washroom and saw Dexter¡¯s secretary waiting outside the door,


    blinking and signaling to her.


    Josie opened the door and walked to the man when she saw him. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze fell on her wet hands, and he understood. ¡°I was waiting for you to go home.¡±


    The two hadn¡¯t spent much time together for the past two days. Josie was slightly bashful. ¡°Did you..


    instruct for the news to be taken down?¡±


    Dexter raised his brows. ¡°Are you angry?¡±


    ¡°No. I was just surprised.¡± Josie shook her head.


    The two returned to Mason Garden. The servants had prepared dinner. While they were eating, she


    received a call. It was from an unknown caller.


    ¡°I¡¯m Laura.¡± The other party was direct.


    Josie and Dexter looked at each other. ¡°I can tell.¡±


    The man rolled his sleeves to his elbow and silently gave Josie more of her favorite food.


    ¡°You said you owed me a favor previously. You can return it now,¡± Laura said boldly.


    ¡°Tell me. What do you need me to do?¡± Josie felt more at ease since Laura had asked for the favor on


    her own ord.


    ¡°I want to work in Russell Group¡¯s design department. Tell Mr. Russell.¡±


    Laura¡¯s target was clear. It seemed like she had a clear n from the start.


    Josie looked at Dexter beside her. Regardless of Laura¡¯s motive, Josie had no reason to reject Laura.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What position do you want?¡±


    ¡°Deputy manager.¡±

 Chapter 291

    Chapter 291


    Chapter 291 Laura Starting Work


    It was quite a big demand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you knowter.¡±


    After that, Josie hung up and looked at the man. ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    Dexter was still calm. He gestured for her to eat.


    ¡°I care more about your thoughts. Are you okay with it?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s pretty capable and has the basics. I¡¯m willing to let her into the design department, but I¡¯m afraid


    she will be trouble for you, Mr. Russell. Her eyes curved, and she smiled. ¡°So, I have to get your


    approval.¡±


    Dexter snorted coldly. ¡°Why are you still asking me since you¡¯ve decided? How can I not return this


    favor for you?¡±


    This meant he silently approved. Josie was delighted and subconsciously held his hand. She kissed his


    check, and it sounded affectionate.


    Dexter paused for a moment, and his gaze was deep.


    After Josie replied to Laura, she immediately looked for Dexter¡¯sptop, wanting to borrow it.


    She had to deal with work since someone was starting work.


    Dexter tapped her head. ¡°There¡¯s a rule in the future. You can¡¯t work at home.¡±


    The word ¡®home¡¯ felt warm, and her heart raced.


    Josie sat on the rug while using theptop. She looked up at the man who sat on the couch and smiled.


    faintly. ¡°Does it only apply to me?¡±


    The man patted her head and smiled. He didn¡¯t say anything.


    Josie met Laura the next day.


    Laura was different from her usual arrogant self as she entered work. She was a capable, experienced,


    mature, and beautiful woman.


    Laura was also obnoxious and invasive. She was condescending to everyone and had an assertive


    demeanor.


    Josie walked into the design department with documents and shook hands with Laura in a businesslike


    manner. ¡°Nice to meet you. Wee to Russell Group.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s your honor.¡±


    Josie was bbergasted.


    She instructed Alice to take Laura around to familiarize herself.


    She could guess why Laura insisted on joining Russell Group. It was to overthrow her.


    But it didn¡¯t matter.


    A few more new employees came to report for work. When there were vacancies at Russell Group,


    they quickly received strong and experienced applicants.


    Josie had instructed the interviewers that experience didn¡¯t matter, but the applicants had to be sincere.


    Laura was much more well-versed among the new employees since she was experienced. She was


    seasoned in interior design, and her presence stood out.


    Moses had nothing to do in the office, so he watched the bustling office.


    Dexter bumped into Xanthe when their partnership project rolled out.


    The elegant woman stood before the French windows. She was skinny and was no longer the figure he


    looked up to when he was young.


    ¡°Your father¡¯s work desk was here back then.¡± Xanthe sounded weary as she turned to look at Dexter.


    He didn¡¯t look at her and was brewing tea instead. ¡°I threw that desk away the day I entered Russell


    Group. This ce was renovated and is no longer the office it was back then.¡±


    Xanthe smiled. ¡°How merciless. It¡¯s no doubt that you¡¯re my son.¡±


    Dexter was pouring out tea, and he paused. He looked up. ¡°You would have berated him for being rude


    if he said such a thing, right?¡±


    Xanthe spread her hands. ¡°Different people need to be taught differently. I don¡¯t see a problem with it.¡±


    The tea was clear. Dexter put a cup before her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve done what I¡¯ve promised you. I hope you can keep your word too. Dexter¡¯s voice was icy. It wasn¡¯t


    friendly at all.


    Xanthe sat on the couch and raised her head slightly. ¡°I would have made a move at Mandarin Oriental


    if I wanted to. She¡¯s na?ve and dumb. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not shameless enough to make a move against a


    young girl.¡±

 Chapter 292

    Chapter 292


    Chapter 292 Achieved Goal


    ¡°You better keep your word.¡± He couldn¡¯t be bothered to look at her.


    ¡°But Dexter, are your feelings for her sincere?¡± Xanthe asked him solemnly.


    His lips twitched. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it seem that way?¡±


    She narrowed her eyes.


    Dexter was wearing Bluetooth earphones, and someone was reporting the real-time situation to him.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell is also here since she implemented it.¡±


    ¡°The live stream has ended, and the sales totaled up to thirty-five point six billion. They have sufficient.


    capital flow.¡±


    ¡°The suite was sold out within ten seconds. It was beyond anyone¡¯s imagination.¡±


    When Dexter heard it, he looked up nonchntly. ¡°The goal has been achieved. You can leave.¡±


    Xanthe looked at the time when she heard it. She wrinkled her brows and asked, ¡°So fast?¡±


    He didn¡¯t say anything.


    She didn¡¯t believe it, but she had to when faced with her aggressive son. She got up, and before she


    left. she said. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Xanthe had sessfully entered the domestic market. It would expand what she was going to do.


    The person was still speaking into Dexter¡¯s earphones.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell and the rest are being interviewed. She defused it perfectly when asked about public


    opinion. on the previous construction site, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Dexter was distracted and didn¡¯t pay attention. He took out his earphones and was lost in thought as he


    sat on the spot.


    After some time, the sky darkened, and dark clouds covered the city. A storm wasing. His cell


    phone on the table kept vibrating.


    He came to his senses and saw that Josie was calling. He massaged the bridge of his nose as he


    answered the call. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°¡­ It hurts.¡± A delicate yet distressed voice rang in his ears.


    Dexter¡¯s expression immediately changed into an awful one.


    Traffic was terrible today, and he was stuck on the road. It suddenly started to rain.


    The air in the car was icy. Even the driver dared not look at the man¡¯s expression in the backseat.


    Dexter spoke darkly to Mrs. Carroll on the phone about matters needing attention.


    After that, his secretary called the head of Wavery¡¯s traffic police and exined the situation. Soon,


    traffic police were dispatched, and the roads were cleared.


    It was smooth all the way until Mason Garden. A servant met him with an umbre, but the man


    stepped into the rain without a second nce as he walked in with enormous strides.


    His target was clear. The master bedroom.


    ¡°How did you get hurt at home?¡± He seemed to be berating her, but upon closer inspection, his voice


    was tender.


    Josie was forced to lie on the bed. Her legs were wrapped in gauze, and he couldn¡¯t see the depth of


    her wound. Her expression wasn¡¯t unusual, but she seemed more embarrassed when Dexter


    appeared.


    He picked her up from her waist and put her in hisp as he examined her leg. He looked upset and


    distressed. ¡°Why is it swollen?¡±


    Their family doctor was packing up his medical equipment. He exined, ¡°It¡¯s swollen because Mrs.


    Russell stood in high heels for too long. It¡¯s not a big problem. She will recover soon.¡±


    The man looked at Josic, and his expression was dark and iprehensible.


    Josie looked away subconsciously. ¡°The live stream was today, so I was at the scene. I had no other


    way.¡±


    Mrs. Carroll bowed slightly. She said apologetically, ¡°Mrs. Russell broke a ss, and the shattered


    pieces weren¡¯t cleaned properly. It was my oversight. I should be penalized.¡±


    Josie sat in Dexter¡¯sp. ¡°I wasn¡¯t paying attention.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t look at Mrs. Carroll. His voice wasn¡¯t harsh, but it seemed like he had reached his limit. ¡°If


    this happens again, resign voluntarily.¡±


    ¡°¡­. I understand.¡±


    After that, everyone else in the room left. Only Dexter and Josie were left.


    The air instantly changed.


    It was stormy outside, and she was close to him. She heard his powerful heartbeat, which made the


    situation unnecessarily sensual.


    There were still raindrops on his hair.


    They quickly warmed up from the heat of their bodies close together.

 Chapter 293

    Chapter 293


    Chapter 292 Achieved Goal


    ¡°You better keep your word.¡± He couldn¡¯t be bothered to look at her.


    ¡°But Dexter, are your feelings for her sincere?¡± Xanthe asked him solemnly.


    His lips twitched. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it seem that way?¡±


    She narrowed her eyes.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter was wearing Bluetooth earphones, and someone was reporting the real-time situation to him.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell is also here since she implemented it.¡±


    ¡°The live stream has ended, and the sales totaled up to thirty-five point six billion. They have sufficient.


    capital flow.¡±


    ¡°The suite was sold out within ten seconds. It was beyond anyone¡¯s imagination.¡±


    When Dexter heard it, he looked up nonchntly. ¡°The goal has been achieved. You can leave.¡±


    Xanthe looked at the time when she heard it. She wrinkled her brows and asked, ¡°So fast?¡±


    He didn¡¯t say anything.


    She didn¡¯t believe it, but she had to when faced with her aggressive son. She got up, and before she


    left. she said. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Xanthe had sessfully entered the domestic market. It would expand what she was going to do.


    The person was still speaking into Dexter¡¯s earphones.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell and the rest are being interviewed. She defused it perfectly when asked about public


    opinion. on the previous construction site, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter was distracted and didn¡¯t pay attention. He took out his earphones and was lost in thought as he


    sat on the spot.


    After some time, the sky darkened, and dark clouds covered the city. A storm wasing. His cell


    phone on the table kept vibrating.


    He came to his senses and saw that Josie was calling. He massaged the bridge of his nose as he


    answered the call. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°¡­ It hurts.¡± A delicate yet distressed voice rang in his ears.


    Dexter¡¯s expression immediately changed into an awful one.


    Traffic was terrible today, and he was stuck on the road. It suddenly started to rain.


    The air in the car was icy. Even the driver dared not look at the man¡¯s expression in the backseat.


    Dexter spoke darkly to Mrs. Carroll on the phone about matters needing attention.


    After that, his secretary called the head of Wavery¡¯s traffic police and exined the situation. Soon,


    traffic police were dispatched, and the roads were cleared.


    It was smooth all the way until Mason Garden. A servant met him with an umbre, but the man


    stepped into the rain without a second nce as he walked in with enormous strides.


    His target was clear. The master bedroom.


    ¡°How did you get hurt at home?¡± He seemed to be berating her, but upon closer inspection, his voice


    was tender.


    Josie was forced to lie on the bed. Her legs were wrapped in gauze, and he couldn¡¯t see the depth of


    her wound. Her expression wasn¡¯t unusual, but she seemed more embarrassed when Dexter


    appeared.


    He picked her up from her waist and put her in hisp as he examined her leg. He looked upset and


    distressed. ¡°Why is it swollen?¡±


    Their family doctor was packing up his medical equipment. He exined, ¡°It¡¯s swollen because Mrs.


    Russell stood in high heels for too long. It¡¯s not a big problem. She will recover soon.¡±


    The man looked at Josic, and his expression was dark and iprehensible.


    Josie looked away subconsciously. ¡°The live stream was today, so I was at the scene. I had no other


    way.¡±


    Mrs. Carroll bowed slightly. She said apologetically, ¡°Mrs. Russell broke a ss, and the shattered


    pieces weren¡¯t cleaned properly. It was my oversight. I should be penalized.¡±


    Josie sat in Dexter¡¯sp. ¡°I wasn¡¯t paying attention.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t look at Mrs. Carroll. His voice wasn¡¯t harsh, but it seemed like he had reached his limit. ¡°If


    this happens again, resign voluntarily.¡±


    ¡°¡­. I understand.¡±


    After that, everyone else in the room left. Only Dexter and Josie were left.


    The air instantly changed.


    It was stormy outside, and she was close to him. She heard his powerful heartbeat, which made the


    situation unnecessarily sensual.


    There were still raindrops on his hair.


    They quickly warmed up from the heat of their bodies close together.

 Chapter 294

    Chapter 294


    Chapter 294 Making a Move Against Carter Group


    Few knew that she was the woman in the rumors. Josie was slightly anxious, and she stopped the


    video. She looked down to continue eating and didn¡¯t hear a word from Dexter for a long time Josie


    couldn¡¯t help but exin dully, ¡°Could I have stayed silent when faced with such a question? I didn¡¯t


    embarrass you, did 1?¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexterughed aloud. He stroked her hair and propped his head up with one hand. His hurried


    heartbeat slowly calmed down as they looked at each other. ¡°Mm. You didn¡¯t.¡±


    Josie had a strong intuition and feared that Dexter was so roused that he wanted to torment her today,


    so she came up with an excuse. She said that she was sleepy and wanted to sleep.


    He grabbed her wrist. He was feeling slightly cold, but his palm was always warm.


    The man said calmly, ¡°There¡¯s no rush. Let me take you around. Sleep after your food is digested.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to look around?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    It was a huge vi. Josie had yet to thoroughly explore every nook and cranny of this peaceful ce.


    Dexter put another coat on her before they left the room.


    He led her to the library. It was enormous and consisted of two floors. Books filled every corner,


    including the stairs. When they opened the door, the fragrance of books in the cold room greeted them.


    From the paper¡¯s quality and the books¡¯ names, Josie could tell they had been bought for a hefty sum.


    Some of the books could even be traced back to the Roman Empire.


    Dexter told her gently about the history and background of the books. He was concise and


    comprehensive, and he took great pleasure in it.


    Josie nced at the books one by one and was surprised to find works from famous authors like


    William James and Sherwood Anderson.


    It included the earliest edition of the book ¡°Winesburg, Ohio. Josie reached out for it and looked at it.


    She remembered the book and found it fascinating. She smiled. ¡°Have you read this?¡±


    Dexter was honest. ¡°No. It¡¯s too difficult to understand.¡±


    ¡°I thought you would be interested.¡±


    ¡°No matter how interested I am in it, I lost all interest when I saw the lines of words. The man raised his


    hand and loosened one of his buttons, seeming solemn.


    Josie put the book back in its ce and was vulnerable to his attack from the back. There was a


    sensuous air. ¡°I only remember part of it.¡±


    ¡°The part where the characters share a steamy night.¡±


    The author was creative. Those who read the story knew that the characters spent the night together¡­


    Josie¡¯s cars visibly reddened. Not only were they red, but they also burned because Dexter was kissing


    her


    cars.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    The room and floor were warm. Dexter took off his coat andy it on the floor. His actions were


    absentminded yet orderly. She previously thought this man was highly proficient in these matters.


    His kisses shifted downward. They were like a sea at high tide as the waves rose and fell. Each wave


    surged passionately.


    That was how Josie felt at that moment. She never thought that he would be roused and carry out his


    ns so quickly.


    Every time they touched, it was familiar yet strange. It was as though he didn¡¯t give her the space to


    resist.


    His sweat fell on her delicate arm. It was unbearable.


    He deliberately brought up an unrted topic at this time to distract her.


    He said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I know what I¡¯m doing. Russell Group has made it this far.¡±


    His deep gasps made her flush and her heart race.


    He switched positions and slowed down. ¡°Carter Group¡¯s share prices rose too muchst week. They


    will undoubtedly rise and fall.¡±


    Josie tried to recall her fragmented thoughts and could vaguely guess his intention. ¡°Are you making a


    move against Carter Group?¡±


    He must have said all these because he meant to punish Carter Group.

 Chapter 295

    Chapter 295


    Chapter 295 Design Competition.


    Dexter seemed to silently acknowledge it.


    Arnold¡¯s face appeared in Josie¡¯s mind, and she was slightly lost in thought. ¡°Can I ask if you and


    Arnold have other conflicts other than the woman?¡±


    It didn¡¯t make sense if they were business rivals for so many years just for a woman.


    Even if Arnold kept harassing Dexter, Dexter shouldn¡¯t retaliate in the same way if it was for a woman.


    The man on top of her stopped, and his sharp gaze was rming. He raised her chin. ¡°Are you talking


    about another man at such a time?¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Josie choked. At the next moment, he exerted force, and she cried out in pain. It was her punishment.


    Her injured leg had yet to heal, but her work couldn¡¯t be held up. Dexter wanted to get her a wheelchair,


    but she chided him for making a mountain out of a molchill. In the end, she settled with crutches.


    When Moses came to send her to work, he almost spat out the coffee he was drinking. ¡°It¡¯s just been a


    day since Ist saw you. Did you break your leg?¡±


    Stupid brat. Josie threw her documents at him. ¡°Open the door!¡±


    Xanthe was victorious, and the finance news reported about her for a long time. They also covered how


    Russell and Carter Groups¡¯ reputations had improved.


    Only Josie knew that such a peaceful situation on the surface wouldn¡¯tst long.


    Arnold hadn¡¯t seemed to return to the country. She scrolled through her contact list on her cell phone


    repeatedly but didn¡¯t call him in the end.


    Never mind.


    ¡°Jo! Come and take a look.¡± Alice walked into Josie¡¯s office with her cell phone early in the morning.


    Alice delightedly said, ¡°Preparations for this year¡¯s Interior Design Awards have started. Are you


    joining?¡±


    Josie was slightly surprised. She had never thought of it. She nced at it. ¡°It¡¯s really happening.¡±


    The Interior Design Awards was a famous interior designpetition in the country. Other than the


    usual awards, it was also a benchmark for the domestic design industry¡¯s development. Regardless if


    she won, overnight sess was just around the corner if she registered and was shortlisted.


    ¡°You never joined the contest because you were too busy working for the past few years. That¡¯s why


    your r¨¦sum¨¦ hasn¡¯t been outstanding. But you¡¯re in a much better ce now. You can disy your


    strength to the outside world now.¡± Alice was much more enthusiastic than Josie. ¡°What do you think?


    Join thepetition.¡±


    Josie had a smile on her face from the start until the end. Actually, she also thought of joining the


    competition. Every designer in the industry must have dreamt of winning an award.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll find the time to register.¡±


    Before Alice could answer, a voice rang from outside. Tll advise you not to overestimate yourself Im


    determined to win the Interior Design Awards¡±


    It was Laura¡¯s icy and childlike voice.


    Laura walked in with some documents and said, ¡°I¡¯ve seen your design. To be honest, it isn¡¯t suitable


    for thepetition¡±


    ¡°You always know best. So, tell me. Who¡¯s the most suitable for thepetition? You?¡± Alice was


    enraged when she saw Laura.


    Josie held Alice back. ¡°Isn¡¯t it too early to jump to conclusions before the results are announced?¡±


    ¡°Then try joining.¡± Laura looked at them disdainfully. She put the documents on Josie¡¯s desk before


    leaving.


    Alice was enraged when she saw Laura¡¯s arrogant demeanor. She rolled her sleeves, shook her fists,


    and gritted her teeth. ¡°Why is she so arrogant? She just has connections to Mr. Russell. Does she think


    she¡¯s a big deal as the deputy manager?!¡±


    Josie sat down at her desk with the help of her crutches. She was too embarrassed to say she had


    singlehandedly arranged for Laura¡¯s sudden appearance.


    ¡°We all privately curse at her for being bossy. Don¡¯t take it to heart, Jo.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Laura was nominated for a few prestigious domestic and international awards.


    She didn¡¯t exactly degrade me. I don¡¯t care.¡±


    Alice was dumbstruck when she heard it. ¡°She¡­ she has an impressive background, after all.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why you can¡¯t underestimate her.¡±

 Chapter 296

    Chapter 296


    Chapter 296 Something Strange About Ivy


    But Josie disagreed with what Laura had said.


    It was only natural and practical that Josie¡¯s creative works so far had been for work, but it didn¡¯t mean


    she didn¡¯t have her own thoughts.


    After Alice left, Josie went to the website to register. She also sent Kevan a message reminding him to


    join.


    He replied quickly and said that he had also registered.


    She had a social engagement today, and the other party had requested to meet at Heaven on Earth.


    They naturally had aplicated background since they wanted to discuss business at such a ce.


    But thankfully, Josie informed Calvin before she went. She tried to make things as simple as possible.


    She looked utterly miserable as she attended the meeting on crutches. Therefore, the project was


    sessfully discussed without any setbacks.


    Calvin leaned against the door. He was dressed mboyantly. ¡°My word, Mrs. Russell. You really treat


    me like family now. You¡¯re not as courteous as you used to be.¡±


    Josie ran her fingers through her hair and put her arm on his shoulder. She said softly. ¡°Since you call


    me Mrs. Russell, it¡¯s only natural that I think of you as family.¡±


    Calvin broke intoughter.


    He had a pretty good impression of her. On top of Dexter¡¯s recent news, he likely intended to keep the


    marriage.


    Calvin sent her to the door and casually asked, ¡°How is Dex? Has he been in Wavery recently?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know what Dexter was currently working on. Thest time they met was at the French


    Riviera vi, and he had gotten angry because she mentioned Arnold while they were doing the deed.


    ¡°He should be.¡±


    Calvin asked teasingly. ¡°Should be? You¡¯re so thoughtless, Mrs. Russell. Aren¡¯t you afraid that


    someone will scheme against you and take over your position?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care. ¡°If they manage to do so, I¡¯ll surrender readily.¡±


    ¡°How confident.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s how I feel at present.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s footsteps stopped. He put his hands in his pocket. ¡°Did Dex fire an assistant recently? A


    Miller.¡±


    Ivy Miller.


    Josie subconsciously stood upright. ¡°What¡¯s up with her?¡±


    ¡°She keeps appearing here at night and seems to have engagements. I¡¯m not sure what she¡¯s doing.


    You should watch out.¡±


    Something Strange About Ivy


    Josie was surprised. She wanted to ask further, but Calvin¡¯s cell phone started ringing incessantly, so


    he stopped borating. ¡°You can pass Dex this message. Remember to tell hirn about it


    Josie realized something. She thought that Ivy was on leave. Was Ivy fired?


    Ivy had stayed by Dexter¡¯s side from the start as he made his way up. She knew most of Russell


    Group¡¯s confidential information but was fired. Dexter was both bold and ruthless.


    But Josie didn¡¯t understand what Ivy had done wrong. Did Dexter discover that Ivy was in love with


    him?


    No. That man was so sensitive. He would have known about such a minor issue early on. He had kept


    Ivy around for many years and must have had his reasons. Did he have no reason to keep her around


    anymore?


    Josie was still thinking about it when she left Heaven on Earth but couldn¡¯t figure it out.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She received a message from Dexter two dayster. She was on the way back to Mason Garden from


    the hospital.


    Spring evenings were slightly cold. Josie saw signs of life in the concrete jungle as she looked around.


    At that moment, Josie realized that a year had passed, and it was the start of another year.


    She came across a vendor selling seasonal fruits who smiled at everyone. She felt emotionally and


    physically exhausted and genuinely felt like she was in turmoil. She rxed slightly as she walked past


    the


    vendor.


    Dexter called her and asked her where she was. His voice was slightly hoarse.


    Josie wasn¡¯t a very possessive woman. She ultimately didn¡¯t ask him what he was busy with for the


    past few days. Or perhaps she utterly trusted his character.

 Chapter 297

    Chapter 297


    Chapter 297 Humans Are Social Creatures


    She told him that she had gone to the hospital to visit her father, and Dexter asked on the phone. ¡°How


    is he?¡±


    Josie repeated Matthew¡¯s advice to her. After that, she stopped and picked out cherries from the fruit


    vendor. ¡°By the way, I saw Calvin a few days ago. He told me about Ivy.¡±


    She said simply, but he didn¡¯t answer for a long time.


    Dexter was silent, and Josie waited for a while only to hear him say something absurd. ¡°Don¡¯t choose


    lightly colored cherries. Choose those with a deep color.¡±


    Josie¡¯s crouched figure froze at the spot.


    She turned and saw a ck Porsche 911.


    It was Dexter¡¯s car. He was parked near her.


    Josie was surprised. She stared at the vehicle foolishly and nkly in the evening breeze. At the next


    moment, a warm men¡¯s coat fell on her. Her cold hands were enveloped by a pair of warm hands, and


    Josie heard his voice in her ears. ¡°How much is it?¡±


    Josie turned, and Dexter took out bills from his wallet. His face was slightly weary, but he smiled


    brightly. ¡°I parked my car there. I was there.¡± He pointed. ¡°I watched as you slowly walked over.¡±


    The woman¡¯s shadow was stretched out ahead by the setting sun. A mild breeze swept her hair. She


    was effortlessly beautiful.


    Dexter thought of something. Josie had suffered in life, but she still remained tenderhearted.Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Gentle but not weak. Josie was strong.


    Josie hadn¡¯t been prepared to meet Dexter. She looked up in embarrassment. ¡°How did you know that


    I¡¯m here?¡± She asked as she picked up the bag of cherries.


    Dexter was faster than her, and he held the bag. ¡°I happened to pass by.¡± He did, indeed, pass by and


    carelessly nced outside when he saw her.


    Josie still felt it was unbelievable when she sat in the passenger¡¯s seat. She kept looking at the man


    beside her every few seconds.


    His actions were familiar, but they overwhelmed her slightly.


    Dexter finally snorted coldly as usual. ¡°Do you have to sit so uneasily? The world now knows that the


    woman sitting in Dexter¡¯s passenger¡¯s seat will be the future Mrs. Russell.¡±


    He took the initiative to mention it, and Josie¡¯s face immediately burned.


    ¡°They still don¡¯t know!¡±


    Men had been making women blush since time immemorial.


    Humans Are Social Creatures


    Dexter thought about many things at this time.


    She became his wifest summer. He felt distressed for her initially, but he didn¡¯t love her.


    Now that they had been through so much, he clearly saw how his feelings for her grew and how he


    started to ept her as he reflected on how they interacted.


    He had always lived in his own world and had never let anyone in. But one day, he suddenly realized


    that Josie could quicklye and go in this world.


    Even Calvin had noticed it and asked Dexter.


    Dexter remembered his answer. ¡°Humans are social creatures, after all.¡±


    It was only natural to have feelings after spending so much time together,


    The two hadn¡¯t met in a few days. Josie subconsciously started telling him about what had happened


    recently. Her leg had healed, she had closed a project, and she had entered a designpetition.


    Dexter listened to her quietly. He didn¡¯t say anything, but his heart felt full.


    ¡°I¡¯m going on a business trip soon,¡± he said slowly after Josie was done.


    Josie was astonished. ¡°Ah?¡±


    So?


    He¡¯s Dexter Russell. Why is he telling me where he¡¯s going?


    In the past, he would just leave without an exnation.


    But now?

 Chapter 298

    Chapter 298


    Chapter 298 Tenth Anniversary Celebration


    His eyes were bright, and he suddenly touched Josie¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Do you need me to arrange anything


    for thepetition you mentioned?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    He smiled lightly. ¡°You can contact my people any time if anything happens to your father.¡±


    ¡°As for your dailymute. Moses will be responsible.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. She had a bad premonition as she asked softly, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a good sign. He seemed to be organizing his affairs like something would happen to him.


    It was best when Dexter wasn¡¯t dressed formally. Everything he did attracted attention.


    He smiled at her. ¡°Something happened at the overseas branch, so I¡¯m going there to deal with it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡± Josie furrowed her brows.


    ¡°Are you afraid you will be wronged if I¡¯m not around?¡± He nodded and met Josie¡¯s gaze. He seemed


    open. but his eyes were iprehensible.


    It seemed like he was telling the truth.


    Josie couldn¡¯t figure him out, but she couldn¡¯t believe his excuse. She said his name. ¡°Dexter.¡±


    She spoke solemnly because she didn¡¯t want him to hide anything from her.


    After the past few days, his strength and tenderness had given Josie a misconception that he had


    sumbed to her.


    The woman didn¡¯t know that her pitiful gaze was fascinating and charming. Dexter couldn¡¯t hold back.


    He raised her chin and kissed her.


    The kiss was just right and was purely a kiss between a couple. It wasn¡¯t sensual. Dexter and Josie


    were attractive, and their kiss was utterly romantic.


    Dexter left without dy. At Mason Garden in the morning, dew still hung onto leaves, and it was misty.


    Josie heard the engine downstairs and immediately crawled up from bed. She walked to the balcony


    and saw Dexter¡¯s car slowly leave.


    He had awoken without making much noise because he hadn¡¯t wanted to wake her. But he didn¡¯t know.


    that she had long awoken.


    Dexter, I think I like you too much. Josie looked sad as she leaned against the railing.


    ¡°Express delivery for you, Ms. Warren.¡± The receptionist handed Josie an envelope as soon as she


    entered.


    the office.


    Josie was baffled. Who would send me something using express delivery? She thanked the


    receptionist.


    pened it with her bare hands and saw a well-designed, gold-ted invitation. Ribbons were at the ?de,


    and a few words on top were printed in calligraphy. ¡°Carter Group¡¯s Tenth Anniversary:


    The w


    muversary invitation.


    seart sank when she saw it. The words ¡®cordially invited by Arnold Carter¡¯ were at the bottom.


    She was perplexed as she walked. Why did I receive an invitation to Carter Group¡¯s anniversary


    celebration?


    After a moment, Laura also walked over with an express delivery. When she opened it, it was an


    identical


    tation. She narrowed her eyes and looked at Josie. ¡°Mr. Carter also sent one to you?¡±


    Josie was suspicious ¡°You too?¡±


    They and the slightly more famous designers in the design department had also received an invitation.


    Arnold must have been treating everyone in the industry equally favorably.


    Jose breathed a sigh of relief.


    Someone was shrieking, ¡°Arnold Carter! Can we meet him? I heard he¡¯s very handsome.¡±


    Laura immediately rolled her eyes. ¡°Regardless of how handsome he is, you don¡¯t stand a chance. Mr.


    Carter already has someone he likes. She¡¯s very elegant!¡±


    ¡°We grew up together.¡±


    Wow!


    Josie was unconcerned about Laura¡¯s childish behavior. She walked to her office in exasperation and


    put ber invitation aside.

 Chapter 299

    Chapter 299


    Chapter 299 History Has Always Needed Heroes.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    At that moment, outside Russell Group.


    ¡°Are we going in, Mr. Carter?¡±


    The driver¡¯s voice in the front seat roused the man in the back seat. He came to his senses and


    realized he had been staring outside the window for a long time.


    Dark clouds had overwhelmed the city. The words ¡®Russell Group¡¯ on the office building were imposing


    and grand.


    Arnold couldn¡¯t help but feel impressed. It represented Dexter¡¯s iron fist.


    Arnold¡¯s bony hands held detailed information about thepany.


    Around two decades ago, Russell Group was prominent in the capital market under the leadership of


    the Russell family¡¯s eldest son. Everyone would think of him when Russell Group was mentioned. He


    had shrewd judgment about the market and a discerning intuition. Many elders were intimidated by


    him.


    But such an ideal state couldn¡¯tst long. This proved to be true everywhere. As he led Russell Group,


    almost everyone internally was a Russell. The family was tempted by massive profit in the long run,


    and few could resist it. Therefore, certain matters were gradually influenced without the person in


    charge noticing.


    Internal strife and external conflicts suddenly popped up that year. It coincided with the market¡¯s


    financial crisis, and problems lurked around them. Even if the man had excellent problem-solving skills,


    he couldn¡¯t avoid being stabbed in the back. After that, Russell Group was on the verge of copse and


    couldn¡¯t hold on much longer. He was so enraged that he suffered a cerebral hemorrhage, was sent to


    the hospital, and fell into aa.


    He passed away before the matters were solved.


    After that, Russell Group fell into a slump for many years. They were in disarray.


    Dexter had appeared at a crucial time when thepany was in imminent danger.


    Russell Groupcked a leader. History has always needed heroes, and Dexter was the hero the


    companycked.


    At the time, he was an intelligent economics and management student, and countless girls worshipped


    him. But he was a neer when he returned to the country and entered the market. He was like a


    nk sheet of paper with little to no experience. Almost no one took notice of him..


    But Dexter quickly attracted a lot of attention.


    The first thing he did aftering into power was to purchase all the broken lots behind the scenes


    anonymously. Along with the stocks he owned, he fired all the Russells in the senior internal


    management before investing a considerable sum in attracting new blood.


    This was his first step. After that, he did something suicidal. He reallocated resources.


    To put it inly, he broke up Russell Group and put it back together again.


    When viewing the market broadly, few people had done such a thing because there were only two


    results. One was to utterly fail and lose a family fortune, while the other was to rapidly rise from the


    ashes.


    But, of course, Dexter was thetter.


    Rising from the ashes was ideal, but the process was terrifying.


    At the time. Dexter had faced various pressure and countless internal strife. He also had to think about


    how to centralize his authority. He would be destroyed if he made a wrong move.


    He made his way to the top before everyone started respecting him.


    As he led Russell Group to the top, he was well-regarded.


    Even eighteen-year-old Arnold knew that reallocating resources couldn¡¯t be done casually. Only a bold


    person would dare to do it. Dexter was such a person.


    When Arnold thought about it, he gripped the corners of the document tightly. ording to Dexter¡¯s


    working style, would he really be kind to a woman?


    There was no way he would give up everything for one person.

 Chapter 300

    Chapter 300


    Chapter 300 Are You a Masochist?


    After some consideration, Josie decided to attend Carter Group¡¯s anniversary celebration.


    Putting personal reasons aside, as the backbone of Russell Group¡¯s design department, she would be


    criticized if others discovered she didn¡¯t go after Arnold sent her an invitation.


    She couldn¡¯t only think of herself at work. She had to consider her team.


    As for Dexter, it wouldn¡¯t be easy to exin it to him. She called him, but it was transferred to his


    secretary¡¯s cell phone. When his secretary heard what Josie said, her head hurt slightly. ¡°Are you sure,


    Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie felt a twinge of guilt.


    She knew that the secretary¡¯s question represented Dexter¡¯s position on the matter.


    With Dexter¡¯s personality, he would be livid if he found out that Josie was attending his rival¡¯s


    anniversary celebration. It would be better to go with someone, but so many things happened recently,


    and no one was free. Dexter¡¯s secretary was in a dilemma. ¡°Mrs. Russell, can¡¯t you not go?¡±


    Not attend? I can¡¯t do that.


    Arnold¡¯s assistant called Josie.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, Mr. Carter mentioned you by name and said you must be invited. You won¡¯t make things


    difficult for me, will you?¡±


    They were all corporate ves. After the assistant said such things, Josie couldn¡¯t turn the invitation


    down, no matter what.


    And Arnold was devious for only sending the invitation to Josie at thest minute. He didn¡¯t want her to


    have time to think about it, avoid it, or turn the invitation down.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I do this? I¡¯ll ask Laura toe with me. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Laura Brandel?¡± The secretary was slightly hesitant.


    ¡°Yes. She hates me, but she¡¯s close to Arnold. She can neutralize our rtionship.¡±


    Josie¡¯s wisdom made the secretary¡¯s eyes light up. This can work¡­ but¡­¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, Josie hung up.


    Laura was sketching at her workstation and immediately covered her screen when she sensed


    someone approaching. ¡°What are you doing? Are you trying to steal my ideas?¡±


    Josie put her hand on the desk. ¡°Are you free for Carter Group¡¯s anniversary celebration?¡±


    Laura frowned fiercely and was utterly uneasy. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about me? You¡¯re afraid of me interacting with Dexter and afraid that Arnold will fall


    in love with me. If youe with me, you can keep watch over me. Isn¡¯t that good?¡± Josie said


    radiantly.


    giving Laura goosebumps,


    Josie saw it wasn¡¯t working, so she immediately changed her methods. ¡°Alright. I can go alone. After


    all, I haven¡¯t seen Arnold for a long time. I can have a good chat with him.¡±


    Laura gritted her teeth and grabbed Josie¡¯s wrist. ¡°You¡¯re good.¡±


    Josieughed.


    On the day of the tenth-anniversary celebration. Josie rushed back to Mason Garden to change after


    work. ended, Laura was already waiting for her downstairs and looked at the time impatiently. ¡°It¡¯s my


    first time seeing someone tardier than me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ming. I¡¯ming! Start the car, Moses!¡± Josie chose a dark green evening gown. She thought it


    would be cold at night and decided on a coat. In other words, she wanted to keep a low profile.


    She nned to show up momentarily before leaving.


    The vehicle left the house and headed to a well-known hotel. Josie didn¡¯t know that she was slowly


    walking into a trap.


    Manypanies had anniversary celebrations, but not many had ten-year anniversaries.


    Carter Group was a veteran in the industry, and many influential bosses attended the celebration for


    Arnold¡¯s sake.


    Therefore, Josie could feel the extent of the glorious celebration before she had even arrived.

 Chapter 301

    Chapter 301


    Chapter 301 The Person Arnold Likes


    Carter Group¡¯s celebrations weren¡¯t inferior to Russell Group¡¯s. Arnold was a particr person. He


    wouldn¡¯t lose to Dexter.


    Josie discovered Arnold had returned to the country as they arrived at the hotel.


    Laura ran to Arnold in her heels and hugged the bright¨Clooking man. She looked up and asked, ¡°What


    time did you arrive, Mr. Carter?¡±


    It seemed like he had just returned today.


    Josie stood on the spot and felt slightly awkward. Josie saw Arnold patting Laura¡¯s head but looking at


    Josie. ¡°In the morning.¡±


    For some reason, Josie thought of what Lillian had said to her but was still unwilling to believe it.


    ¡°We meet again, Ms. Warren.¡± When Arnold approached Josie, he extended his hands with a faint


    smile as he sized her up.


    ¡°Mr. Carter.¡± Josie nodded respectfully and didn¡¯t overstep boundaries.


    After entering the venue, Laura was a social butterfly. She could chat with anyone and seemed to be in


    a great mood.


    Josie looked around and only saw a few acquaintances from Russell Group. After greeting them, Josie


    sat in a corner and sent Dexter a message, asking him if he had finished his work.


    He didn¡¯t reply to her message, so she thought he was still busy.


    A few board members were giving speeches on stage. Josie supported her head with her hand as she


    listened to them, ovee with boredom. She could vaguely predict Carter Group¡¯s future


    development.


    It wasn¡¯t asplicated as Russell Group¡¯s. Carter Group made a fortune out of the real estate


    business. They had exceptional foresight and knowledge. Therefore, everything went smoothly for


    them.


    None of the board members were Carters. They were outsiders but were willing to work for Arnold. His


    ability and status were evident.


    Josie had always felt that although Arnold didn¡¯t seem very resolved, he had profound ns and


    schemes.


    Otherwise, Dexter wouldn¡¯t have treated Arnold as a rival for so many years.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± A soft yet firm voice pulled her back to reality. She was taken aback


    when she looked up at Arnold, who was in a bright suit.


    He sat beside her, and she subconsciously shifted to the side.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you upied today?¡±


    Arnold stretched and leaned back in the chair. ¡°You¡¯re an honored guest. How can I ignore you?¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to hear such things.


    Carter Group had invited many celebrities, and many people surrounded the stars. No one noticed


    Josie and Arnold¡¯s interaction in the corner.


    shapter av The Person ATTIONU DIRUS


    ¡°Your husband is quite merciless. He dealt a heavy blow at such a crucial juncture. It hurts,¡± he said


    with a faint sinile as his bright eyes curved. Josie didn¡¯t dare look at him.


    Josie had a rough idea that Dexter was making a move against the Carter Group, Did his business trip


    this time have anything to do with this?


    ¡°Business is like war. A woman like me doesn¡¯t understand it.¡±


    Business


    Arnold sneered and twisted his wrists. ¡°I told you not to return to Rivodia previously, but you still did,


    didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Josic looked at him and kept quiet. It was her way of silently acknowledging.


    Arnold understood it and nodded. ¡°He¡¯s like that. He takes advantage of people to their full extent.¡±


    Josie was ufortable by Arnold¡¯s peculiar words. She frowned. ¡°Arnold, you don¡¯t have to beat


    around. the bush if you want to say something to me. But of course, I will judge for myself if your words


    are right.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    At this time, the celebrities dispersed, and there was a ruckus on stage as they asked Mr. Carter to


    dance.


    The spotlight shone on Arnold. Josie, who was next to him, had no ce to hide. She subconsciously


    hid her face, and her heart beat furiously.


    Arnold was at case. He sat on the spot without moving


    ¡°You¡¯ve never trusted me.¡±


    Josie frantically avoided the spotlight, and she kicked his calf. ¡°Quickly answer them!¡±


    After a moment, Arnold slowly rose among everyone¡¯s baffled gaze. ¡°Who do I have to dance with?¡±


    Someone shouted, ¡°The person you like, of course.¡±

 Chapter 302

    Chapter 302


    Chapter 302 Who Is That Woman?


    He slowly turned and met Josie¡¯s embarrassed gaze. At that moment, her heart beat furiously. The


    person he


    likes¡­


    ¡°The person I like is here.¡±


    Everyone gasped. Josie shut her eyes.


    ¡°But she isn¡¯t feeling well, so I can¡¯t dance with her.¡±


    After that, Josie breathed a sigh of relief. She saw the man¡¯s broad figure gradually back away and was


    slightly lost in thought. She had really overthought things when his gaze had met hers.


    Tsk. I shouldn¡¯t have thought about it.


    She raised her hand to look at her watch. She wanted to stay for another ten minutes before leaving.


    Dexter replied, ¡®I just finished.¡¯


    When are youing back?¡®


    She thought about it before deleting the message. Instead, she replied, ¡®Rest well.¡¯


    Laura was still busy socializing. Josie thought she was capable enough not to make trouble on such an


    asion, so Josie left the hotel first. But she saw a familiar figure in the corridor.


    Xanthe?


    Xanthe exited the car and entered the hotel as the servers guided her. Shortly after, Arnold appeared


    and shook hands with Xanthe before walking together to the end of the corridor.


    Why is Xanthe here?


    Josie took a deep breath. By right, Russell and Carter Groups¡® partnership had ended. Xanthe had no


    reason to meet with Arnold. Was there something going on between the two of them?


    She didn¡¯t think about it further and followed them cautiously. Her heels didn¡¯t make a sound on the soft


    carpeted floor.


    They entered a room but didn¡¯t shut the door. Josie hid in a corner and faintly saw a young woman in a


    white dress appear. Josie couldn¡¯t see the woman¡¯s face, but she looked fragile yet elegant.


    The woman faced Xanthe, and Josie didn¡¯t know what the two were talking about. Xanthe hugged the


    woman.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed. Who is this woman? Is this the person Arnold mentioned? The woman he


    likes?


    Just as she was pondering, a shadow towered over her. ¡°How long are you going to watch?¡±


    Josie was startled and fell backward. Just as her head was about to hit the wall, the man caught hold of


    her and covered her mouth as he dragged her to the stairs.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Mmph!¡±


    Josie struggled with all her might and panted as she stared at the indifferent man. ¡°What are you


    doing?!¡±


    1/2


    He was in the room. When did hee out?


    Arnold let her go andughed in his rage. ¡°I haven¡¯t asked you what you¡¯re doing by snooping on my


    personal life.¡±


    Josie suddenly lost her confidence and said softly, ¡°How is this considered your personal life?¡±


    ¡°What did you see?¡± Arnold put one hand against the wall and had a reckless smile as usual. ¡°Why?


    Did you feel jealous, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Pfft!¡± Josie didn¡¯t hold back. ¡°You should know your limits.¡±


    Arnold smiled calmly.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± She asked in the end. ¡®What rtionship do you have with Xanthe?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s smile slowly dimmed. He wiped her lipstick with his fingers. ¡°Josie, I don¡¯t tell you certain


    things for your own good.¡±


    She didn¡¯t understand and shook her head. ¡°I won¡¯t be able to sleep if you don¡¯t tell me.¡±


    He hung his head slightly and smirked. The two were very close. Josie wanted to avoid him, but she


    couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Go home. Your driver must have been waiting for a long time.¡± After that, Arnold pulled away


    indifferently and entered the room again.


    This time, he shut the door.


    Josie was left confused. She didn¡¯t understand.


    Moses had been waiting long and was smoking in the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°Dexter called me and asked me


    where you were.¡±

 Chapter 303

    Chapter 303


    Chapter 303 Framed by giarism Again


    Josie came to her senses and turned on her cell phone. There were a few unread messages.


    Are you home?¡®


    ¡°Tell me once you¡¯re home.


    She immediately replied, ¡®On my way now.¡±


    Actually, she wasn¡¯t confused. Arnold didn¡¯t meet many women like that. There was only one


    possibility. Is Summer back in the country?


    That can¡¯t be. Laura and Summer are good friends. How would Laura not know if Summer was back?


    Laura didn¡¯t act strange at all today.


    Josie held her cell phone and hesitated for a long time. She didn¡¯t jump to conclusions, but her heart


    beat furiously. She had an ominous premonition.


    She returned to everyday working life after Carter Group¡¯s anniversary celebration ended. Dexter¡¯s


    business trip this time was exceptionally long. He was so busy he didn¡¯t even have time to call her.


    Josie had a fixed routine. Other than visiting her father, she was engrossed in polishing her design. Her


    and Laura¡¯s designs were selected for the semifinals.


    Laura said disdainfully, ¡°Try harder if you want to win.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t want to fight with her.


    Kevan didn¡¯t make it into the semifinals. She looked at the name list and sighed. But at this time, she


    saw a familiar name. ire Wilcher.


    ire Wilcher? ire!


    Was she shortlisted too?


    Josie hadn¡¯t heard anything about ire for a long time. She was momentarily baffled. ire was fired


    from Russell Group because of her devious behavior, but she was professionally capable. She must


    have wanted to win an award and make aeback.


    Josie¡¯s thoughts were simple. But shortly after, she received a call from the awards organizing


    committee. ¡°Ms. Warren, the design you submitted resembles another contestant¡¯s. We¡¯re very sorry,


    but we must start an investigation.¡±


    It was a bolt from the blue. Josie suddenly stood up and said disbelievingly, ¡°How can this be? Who is


    the


    other contestant?¡±


    ¡°ire Wilcher.¡±


    Josie was dumbstruck.


    It was impossible. Josie hadn¡¯t seen ire for a long time, and the two never interacted. How can our


    design


    be simr?


    The organizingmittee didn¡¯t borate.


    1/9


    Josie subconsciously wanted to call Dexter. She hesitated for a long time and didn¡¯t call him in the end.


    She called Calvin instead.


    ¡°Design work?¡± The two sat across from each other. Calvin turned on herptop and took a look.


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m perfectly sure that I never met ire in person, but I don¡¯t know if myptop was breached.¡±


    Josie was slightly anxious. ¡°I thought about it but didn¡¯t know who to approach, so I came to you.¡±


    Calvin nced at her kindly. ¡°You¡¯re wee toe to me when Dex isn¡¯t in Wavery.¡±


    Warmth spread in Josie¡¯s heart. It felt like she had a family because of Dexter. She felt reassured.


    ¡°I installed a firewall for you thest time yourptop was repaired. It couldn¡¯t have been breached.¡±


    Calvin didn¡¯t find traces of herptop being breached. ¡°Think about it. Did you really not meet ire?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± Josie was sure.


    Thest time she saw ire was when ire was beaten up. She didn¡¯t know what had happened to


    ire after that.


    Calvin tapped his fingers against the desk. ¡°How about this? Instead of just waiting anxiously, why don¡¯t


    you initiate an attack?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Around two hourster, Calvin received a document. It showed a detailed record of ire¡¯s current


    situation. She had broken up with Mr. Yves, and her pregnancy was terminated. After that, she


    interviewed for jobs but ran into dead ends. She was living a simple life.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaning toward the possibility that someone peeked at yourptop and sent the design to ire.¡±

 Chapter 304

    Chapter 304


    Chapter 304 Who¡¯s Outside?!


    Josie was slighals frustrated and couldnt think of anyone who could do that Mr Barrett, do you trust me


    some What if I was the one who giarized her?


    Calvin¡¯smiled ¡°You¡¯re not that kind of person¡±


    Josie vighed


    He passed her a pen I was a recording device. She¡¯s meeting a man in Heaven on Earth today I¡¯ve


    found a way to rece the man and arranged un opportunity for you¡±


    He worked methodically, and Josie immediately felt more at ease. ¡°Thank you¡±


    He waved his hand. You¡¯re wee¡±


    Therefore, Josie stayed in Heaven on Earth the whole day. She told Dexter everything through text and


    sounded slightly coy at the end. Why am I so unlucky?


    He didn¡¯t reply at once


    She couldn¡¯t hold back and called him, but he didn¡¯t answer. However, she realized that his number


    now had a Wavery area code.


    Is he back?


    Did he just get off the ne!


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t dwell on it. Her mind was filled with what would happen at night.


    At night. ire arrived on time, as expected. It seemed like her first time meeting the man, and she had


    her guard up. But shortly after, the two went into a private room together.


    Calvin¡¯s voice rang in Josie¡¯s Bluetooth carphones. ¡°She was going to meet with the head of a design


    company. She wants to be hired.¡±


    Josie felt disdainful. ire always liked to y such games.


    After around an hour, the man finally started to question her. ire was inebriated and not fully clear-


    headed, so some of her words were distorted. Josie had to guess what ire was saying.


    ¡°Manypanies will want to hire me after 1 win an award. You¡¯re nning ahead by hiring me first.¡±


    ¡°How do you know that you¡¯ll win an award?¡±


    ¡°Heh¡­ because that wench is pretty good. Don¡¯t worry. The organizingmittee won¡¯t find out.¡±


    Josie was rmed. It¡¯s her!


    ¡°How did you get her design?¡± He steered the conversation.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ all thanks to that woman I thought she lied to me. I never thought she would reallye


    through.¡±


    In an instant, Josie suddenly saw the light. It¡¯s Laura¡­ Yes. Only Laura could have approached me


    and seen my design. She was even contemptuous when she saw it, but she did such a despicable


    thing!


    Caise repentesty wwned by name and called her nasty names


    hot who was made, held the recording device tightly When the man was done questioning ire, he


    test her


    sleep


    Joe was wat on the spot and couldn¡¯te to her senses for a long time


    Calviny w rang in het Bluetooth earphones You should leave.¡±


    Joe was about to in and leave but perhaps her legs were weak because she was distracted She


    sub.ously hel


    in the corner but lostmod The vase suddenly fell and shattered into proves hudly. The shattered


    pieces tell everywhere and sut her hand I made her cry out in pain loudly


    The loud noise awoke ire, who had shut her eyes and was about to sleep. At that moment, she


    wasn¡¯t sleepy at all. She tore off her covers and got up before she asked the man, who was also


    startled, ¡°Who¡¯s


    She was immediately wary and seemed to have understood something. She got out of bed and ran


    outside


    The man couldn¡¯t stop her in time. ire had opened the door viciously and was in disbelief as she


    saw Josie panicked and standing on the spot.


    Calvin was saying something urgently in Josie¡¯s carphones. She covered her bleeding wrist, and she


    was in a daze. Her mud was nk.


    While Jose was in a dare, it was as though ire saw her mortal enemy. She ran to Josie without


    caring. alsout anything else.


    ¡°It¡¯s you, you b*tch¡±

 Chapter 305

    Chapter 305


    Chapter 305 He¡¯s Back


    ¡°Smack!¡¯ ire pped Josie loudly. ire had used all her might, and Josie¡¯s head was turned to the


    side from the force of the p. Josie tasted blood in her mouth. ire loathed Josie, which was why


    she was so vicious.


    ¡°You have the nerve to set me up?!¡± ire gestured threateningly, and Josie covered her face with one


    hand. Her face was swollen, and she slowly came to her senses.


    She heard hurried footsteps in her earphones. Calvin told her to leave quickly.


    Leave? Josie¡¯s bad temper rose at once. She pped me. How can I leave like this?


    The man restrained ire, and Josie suddenly raised her hand without any sign or exnation. She


    returned the p with the same force rudely and viciously.


    She wouldn¡¯t be satisfied if she didn¡¯t hit ire. ¡°ire Wilcher! I should have beaten you to your death


    last time!¡±


    ¡°You! I¡¯m going to kill you!¡± ire¡¯s eyes were bloodshot as she struggled with all her might.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Calvin¡¯s subordinate signaled Josie with his eyes. ¡°Quickly leave!¡± After that, he mouthed, the recording


    is more important!


    Josie thought about it with her remaining rationality. It made sense to her. She hid it and turned to leave


    but didn¡¯t expect ire to be so sharp. ire leaped to pull Josie¡¯s hair. ¡°You have a recording!¡±


    Josie was caught off guard as ire pulled her backward. Her scalp hurt, and she cried out loud. Her


    Bluetooth carphones fell out.


    Before the man could intervene, they suddenly heard a sharp voice. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    The three of them stopped at once and looked toward the voice.


    He came hurriedly with bodyguards behind him. He looked livid, and no one could stop him as he


    rushed over. Calvin had arrived.


    ire was clueless. ¡°Mr. Barrett? This is our personal matter. You don¡¯t have to interfere.¡±


    Calvin raised his brows at her and nced at the man beside her. ¡°You can go downstairs. Ms. Devlin


    is waiting for you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Barrett.¡±


    ire suddenly saw the light. She looked at Calvin, then at Josie. ¡°Did you work together to set me


    up?¡±


    Josie stood up straight since she had someone on her side. ¡°How can someone be so dumb?¡±


    ¡°You should leave,¡± Calvin said to Josie.


    She looked away in disgust and left.


    She ran down the stairs, and her hands were sweaty as she held the recording pen.


    Thankfully, she had gotten evidence proving that she didn¡¯t giarize. It wasn¡¯t too tricky.


    She suddenly met with a bright light on herst flight ist stairs


    Josie¡¯s eyes adjusted to the re, and her footsteps stopped


    The figure leaning against the wall was chillingly calm Josie almost went weak at the sight of his


    familiar hgures


    Peter Why is he here?


    ¡°Dex¡¯ You¡¯re back¡± Josie smiled and quickly ran down the steps. ¡°Did you see the messages I sent


    you? But how did you know I was here? What a coincidence¡±


    The stairs weren¡¯t very well-lit. The emergency light shone dimly, and it was quiet around them.


    Dexter¡¯s thin lips were pursed tightly, and his expression was nasty. He asked, ¡°Did you get the


    recording?¡±


    Jovie nodded furiously. ¡°Thanks to Calvin.¡±


    He extended his hand. ¡°Show me.¡±


    Josie stood on the third step from the bottom as she looked at the man before her. He felt unfamiliar


    and strange. She unconsciously held the recording pen tightly and subconsciously thought she was still


    in danger even with the pen.


    She didn¡¯t move.


    Two buttons on his shirt were unbuttoned, and half his corbone was exposed. Light flickered on his


    side. profile, and he seemed dangerous,


    He had a cold expression, and it put more pressure on Josic. She couldn¡¯t keep her calm. ¡°You haven¡¯t


    told me why you¡¯re here.¡±

 Chapter 306

    Chapter 306


    Chapter 306 Taking the Recording Pen Away


    The man raised his brows and said indifferently. ¡°I saw your messages, so I came to pick you up


    The two were slightly unfamiliar after not seeing each other for many days. ¡°When did youe back?


    Dexter straightened up Vestey¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? Josie¡¯s legs felt slightly weak.


    She wanted to walk forward but lost her bnce, and her body fell. The man narrowed his eyes, and


    she fell sately into his strong arms the next moment.


    They were dazed by such an intimate posture.


    His body stiffened. Josie saw the buttons on Dexter¡¯s shirt and felt aggrieved for no reason. She


    pushed him away forcefully, expressing her defiance.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened, and he held her tightly. He didn¡¯t seem to want to let her go.


    Josie panicked and said, ¡°Dexter Russell!¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    He said with a low voice, ¡°Yes?¡±


    At the next moment.


    ¡°Give me the recording pen.¡± She heard him speak.


    It was as though she was sshed with ice-cold water.


    Josie¡¯s chest heaved. ¡°Dexter, why do you insist on taking the recording pen?¡±


    The man didn¡¯t say anything.


    She didn¡¯t look away. She stared at Dexter. It was as though she could read his mind if she watched


    him.


    The man looked to the side slightly.


    His heart beat furiously when faced with Josic, who was on the verge of losing control. Various


    emotions surged through him, and he was about to give up.


    But he still said, ¡°Give it to me.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t move. She was trapped in his arms, and she trembled. ¡°What kind of a rtionship do you


    have with ire? Why are you protecting her?¡±


    ¡°Or do you mean to tell me that you¡¯re protecting Laura? Why?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips moved, but Josie didn¡¯t want to hear his answer. ¡°Do you know what¡¯s inside? It¡¯s proof


    that she framed me! Do you think I believe that you¡¯re taking this to clear my name after what you


    said?!¡±


    Dexter wasn¡¯t good at exining. He took a deep breath. ¡°Just give it to me. I won¡¯t harm you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s subconscious told her to trust him, but her gut told her she couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°You won¡¯t harm me? But you know that if I don¡¯t publicize the recording, everyone will still belittle me


    Taking the Recording Pen Away


    regardless of my future achievements. They will think that I giarize habitually¡±


    Her voice was strained as she screeched at him.


    It was as though Dexter¡¯s heart was pierced. He felt that he was losing her. He hugged her tightly and


    wa slightly panicked. ¡°No, they won¡¯t. They won¡¯t dare to


    Therefore, he was protecting Laura, as she had expected


    Josie¡¯s throat felt dry Dexter Russell. Im your wife Your first wife. We¡¯re not divorced yet. I thought you


    understood me Even if you don¡¯t have feelings for me, you should at least care for me a little, but what


    are you forcing me to do now? You¡¯re pushing me to the edge You¡¯re making me give up my reputation


    to protect another woman¡¯s reputation.¡±


    ¡°Do I mean nothing to you? Am I just like a stray animal to you? You y with me when you want to,


    then throw me away when you have no use for me. I¡¯m inferior to other women.¡±


    She shivered. It was as though she was freezing and trapped in a refrigerator.


    Dexter¡¯s emotions were all over the ce. He knew that he couldn¡¯t stand her talking about herself like


    that. He didn¡¯t like it. She sounded so miserable, as though the entire world had abandoned her.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. You¡¯ll have a better life. Laura messed up. Her life will be over if she¡¯s exposed.¡±

 Chapter 307

    Chapter 307


    Chapter 307 I Will Hate You


    Josie almost couldn¡¯t breathe. ¡°You knew about this carly on, and you knew Laura did it, right? But you


    didn¡¯t reply to my messages or tell me you were back in the country. What were you doing for the past


    few days? Can you tell me?¡±


    His face was ashen.


    Is Laura so important? Or is someone else so important that you¡¯re losing control like this? But Dexter, I


    have my dignity too. How lowly do you think of me by saying such things?¡±


    Her voice suddenly turned cold. ¡°What if I don¡¯t give it to you?¡±


    He suddenly pushed her, and she fell against the wall. Her head fell back heavily, and she shut her


    eyes, but she didn¡¯t feel the pain she expected. It was soft. His hand was behind her head.


    The man before her grew slightly more forceful, and his expression was dark. He pulled his hand away


    and searched for hers. He suddenly asked, ¡°I didn¡¯t want you to go to Carter Group¡¯s anniversary


    celebration Why didn¡¯t you listen to me?¡±


    To her, he was changing the topic.


    Josie kept quiet and put her hand behind her. She was determined not to give it to him.


    Dexter was growing impatient. He held her hand and pulled at it. ¡°You knew I didn¡¯t like you meeting


    with Arnold, but you still went, didn¡¯t you? I personally saw you p ire. Isn¡¯t that enough for you to


    vent?¡±


    He was merciless, and Josie stumbled at his force. Her arm hurt, and she groaned subconsciously.


    Dexter was taken aback by her whine, and his force decreased, but he didn¡¯t let go.


    Josie was suddenly angered and abruptly started struggling fiercely. She started pounding at him with


    her hands and feet. Her gaze was livid as she screamed and cried, ¡°Dexter Russell! Get lost! Don¡¯t


    touch me!¡±


    Dexter held her in his arms and was displeased with her struggling. He lost control and identally hit


    her jaw. He didn¡¯t hit her hard, but the sound of it made the two stand at the spot, startled.


    Dexter seemed to lose his temper and easily took the recording pen from her hands while she was


    distracted


    Josie felt utterly weak.


    Dexter furrowed his brows. He felt great fear. The man didn¡¯t know how to exin it to her. Anything he


    said to her now would be considered a feeble excuse.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie stared at the recording pen in his hands, and her voice trembled. ¡°If you take it away today, I will


    hate you.¡±


    The man trembled, and his grip subconsciously tightened.


    He still took it with him in the end.


    The tearful woman looked like a fragile porcin doll under the light.


    Josie sat paralyzed in the master bedroom of Mason Garden. Dexter¡¯s secretary looked at her. ¡°Don¡¯t


    take it to heart. Mrs. Russell. Mr. Russell has arranged for people to exin everything to the


    organizing


    Josie sat on the floor and didn¡¯t say a word. Her face was pale.


    ¡°Perhaps Mr. Russell is returning the favor since Ms. Brandel saved you. You know how it is.¡±


    Josie still kept quiet.


    +15 Bonus


    The secretary could only sigh. ¡°We received some photos a few days ago of you and Mr. Carter on the


    stairs in an intimate position. Mr. Russell was enraged when he saw it, but he didn¡¯t tell you.¡±


    Josie finally understood when she heard it. She looked up and sneered. ¡°So, are you saying that he¡¯s


    taking his revenge?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°When did he return to the country? I want the truth.¡±


    The secretary was dumbstruck and put in a difficult spot. Two days ago.¡±


    It seemed to be much earlier. ¡°What did he do aftering back?¡±


    I can¡¯t say.¡±

 Chapter 308

    Chapter 308


    Chapter 308 House Arrest


    Josie shut her eyes and felt the pain of being deceived. She hugged her arms ¡°You may leave


    She was depressed for two days. Dexter didn¡¯t return to Mason Garden either Josie wasn¡¯t one to be


    hard on herself, but she felt she was pushing herself too much. Perhaps she needed to do some soul-


    searching


    She booked a flight ticket to the north.


    But she didn¡¯t manage to leave.


    Many people were still at the Wavery airportte at night Josie was detained for no reason as she


    passed through the security check. It attracted many people¡¯s attention.


    An airport staff rushed over apologetically and asked slightly embarrassedly. ¡°Are you Ms. Warren?¡±


    His superior had blown his phone up with calls in the middle of the night. He thought it was a crucial


    case, but when he rushed to the scene, he discovered it was only to detain a woman.


    Josie was indifferent.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, we might have to use force.¡±


    The light in her clear eyes slowly dimmed. She said. ¡°What if I insist on leaving?¡±


    Insist? Can I stop her? Of course, I have to,


    His superior had been in a panic. It was evident that Josie had offended someone of significant stature.


    Perhaps she hadmitted a great offense.


    Josie held her boarding pass tightly and didn¡¯t hear what the man said. She was silent for a moment


    before she turned to leave.


    Outside the airport, she saw a Mercedes Benz AMG G 63 rush over silently. It came right at her. The


    vehicle sped at her quickly, and Josie didn¡¯t expect it. She stood on the spot and didn¡¯t move. She


    watched as the car drove toward her.


    She only knew one man who dared to drive at such a speed.


    The vehicle approached quickly. No one knew what Josie was thinking about at that time.


    Just as the Mercedes Benz AMG G 63 was about to crash into her, the driver suddenly braked. The


    wheels screeched loudly on the ground and made an unpleasant noise.


    The iing breeze swept Josie¡¯s long hair. It was unavoidable, and she shut her eyes.


    The car was less than seven inches away from her. She would have seen the pearly gates if the


    vehicle had braked anyter.


    Josie forcefully restrained her trembling and opened her eyes. She looked into the calm and pitch-ck


    eyes of the driver.


    The headlights of the Mercedes Benz AMG G 63 were so bright and piercing that it made her tear up.


    She stood miserably in the light and had nowhere to hide.


    Josie was basically put on house arrest.


    It was one of Dexter¡¯s tricks. His ways were imprable. He wouldn¡¯t make a mistake on something


    he had decided to do.


    Like right now.


    She was staying in the same house with the same people. Still, Josie and Dexter¡¯s rtionship had


    changed.


    It was the first time Josie was expressing such indifference. She went along with everything, but she


    refused to speak.


    The servants in Mason Garden could tell that Josie seemed demoralized about everything. It was as


    though she had given uppletely.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    It wasn¡¯t a good sign.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, you have to eat something. A whole day has passed, but you haven¡¯t eaten much. It¡¯s


    not healthy.¡± Mrs. Carroll stood by Josie¡¯s side respectfully and persuaded her patiently. ¡°Look at this. I


    made it for you.¡±


    Josie was lost in thought as she sat on the balcony. She had a nket around her and looked down


    expressionlessly at the approaching car. It was slow and not aggressive like that day.


    She could still remember how the man had charged at her. If he had gone any faster, she would have


    been killed.

 Chapter 309

    Chapter 309


    Chapter 309 Deadlock


    Wavery had no shortage of wealthy young men and luxury cars. However, most cared about their


    family reputation, so few dared to use their authority as tantly as Dexter did and sealed off the


    highway. He drove recklessly and way above the speed limit.


    Josie¡¯s face was pale. She keenly sensed the car¡¯s dangerous speed and gripped the seatbelt tightly.


    clenching her teeth to prevent herself from shouting out loud.


    The car finally stopped at Mason Garden. Josie fought back the urge to puke and gritted her teeth as


    she looked at him. Her eyes shed with hatred. ¡°Dexter, are you insane?¡±


    Dexter was furious. He gripped her chin and tilted it. I usually don¡¯t care about someone¡¯s life, but


    unfortunately, you are my wife. We haven¡¯t divorced. I don¡¯t want to be made a widower while I¡¯m still


    young. It¡¯s bound to be humiliating


    He spoke rapidly as if running away from something.


    Josie looked into his eyes as if looking at a stranger. After a while, she raised her hand and pped his


    face with all her might.


    Dexter did not dodge. His head leaned slightly to the side from the force of her p. Then, he looked


    back at her and licked his lips, looking alluring but dangerous. At the same time, he did not hesitate but


    opened the front passenger door and dragged her out of the car. The servants were already gathered


    outside the house to wee them. Dexter pushed her to them in disdain.


    ¡°Keep a close watch on her.¡± He would not tolerate any disobedience.


    Then, he returned to his car without hesitation or a backward nce and sped away, leaving a plume of


    dust in his wake.


    After he left, Josie could no longer hold back her tears. She struggled free from the servant¡¯s hold and


    crumpled to the floor, bursting into tears. Her image meant nothing to her at this point.


    Dexter returned to Mason Garden the following few days and behaved as usual. However, he never


    took a step into their bedroom. Anyone could see that what happened between Dexter and Josie was


    more than just a quarrel this time.


    It was past midnight, but Josie was still awake. She could not fall asleep.


    Rain began to stter outside. When Josie finally fell into a light sleep, the phone by her pillow


    suddenly buzzed and vibrated violently. It was incredibly frightening in the darkness.


    Josie picked up the phone and saw that it was an unknown number.


    Who would call me in the middle of the night?


    Her finger hovered above the screen, unsure whether to ept the call. The call was like Pandora¡¯s


    box. She had no idea what would happen if she were to answer it.


    The phone vibrated for a while before stopping by itself.


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief and put the phone away. However, it suddenly rang again. Her hand


    shook, and her heart pounded from fright.


    The number kept calling her for nearly half an hour. Josie looked at the screen from afar. She was not


    sure


    why she was wary about answering it. At the same time, the caller was persistent. The constant


    buzzing made her panic. Ultimately, she answered it and asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Josie was afraid.


    What scared her more was the silence on the other end. She could not hear any noise at all. Her voice


    trembled as she repeated the question, but there was still no response.


    The caller hung up.


    Dexter had indicated that she could return to work, but she must not even think of leaving Wavery.


    After wallowing in misery in Mason Garden for a few days, Josie thought about her unfinished work and


    washed up before heading to Russell Group.


    As expected, Laura did note to work. Alice said she had family matters.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    How could she have any matters? She¡¯s only too afraid to face me.


    However, Josie did not care. She could see from the present situation that Laura¡¯s giarism scandal


    was still under wraps. It seemed thepetitionmittee dealt with the matter well. No one knew


    that she colluded with ire and caused such an incident.


    Dexter had always been thorough in everything he did.

 Chapter 310

    Chapter 310


    Chapter 310 Interrupted Seduction


    Josie¡¯s heart was numb. Alice flipped through the pile of documents on her table. ¡°You haven¡¯t been to


    thepany for a few days. Did something happen at home?¡±


    ¡°Something like that.¡±


    Alice noticed Josie seemed distracted and reminded softly, ¡°Don¡¯t forget. You need to bring these


    documents to Mr. Russell for his signature.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes and felt fatigued all over her body.


    In the end, she made her way to the top floor. The secretary informed her that Dexter was not in.


    Josie nodded and did not say anything. However, the secretary suddenly grabbed her wrist and


    whispered, ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell is having a business meeting in this ce. This document is


    urgent, so please find him here.¡±


    She stuffed a note into Josie¡¯s hand. It was written with an address.


    Josie frowned and tossed it into the bin. ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡±


    The secretary was stunned and rendered speechless. She picked up the note from the bin and said,


    ¡°You must. It¡¯s urgent.¡±


    Josie looked into her eyes and ruffled her hair in frustration. She had no choice but to take the note and


    leave.


    It was a racy entertainment establishment. The music was loud, and many people were dancing.


    Josie did not head straight to Dexter¡¯s private lounge because she was unsure how to face him.


    Instead, she went to thedies¡® room topose herself.


    She ced her hand on the door and took deep breaths to calm herself down. Then, she tucked away


    the stray strands on her forehead and looked up, stunned by the scene before her eyes.


    The man troubling her thoughts for days was right before her.


    His clothes were disheveled. Two of his shirt buttons were undone, revealing his well¨Cdefined


    corbone. His chest heaved with uneven breath.


    A half¨Cundressed woman with a seductive appearance clung to his body. She seemed on the verge of


    forcing herself on him.


    Dexter¡¯s expression changed rapidly. He seemed crushed.


    But Josie interpreted it as guilt.


    Her heart sank to the lowest depth and turned cold.


    Their gaze met. Their hearts were troubled by conflicting emotions.


    The woman atop Dexter finally noticed something wrong and stopped what she was doing. She


    gradually turned and saw Josie. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    No matter how calm josie was about catching her husband cheating, it was hard not to be shocked by


    the


    scene before her.


    She felt as if struck by lightning.


    Dexter¡¯s expression was terrible. He looked grim and intimidating.


    Josie sneered but did not say anything. She concealed her shocked expression and gradually


    approached the stunned woman before helping her put her clothes back on. Her voice was calm and


    rxed as she buttoned the woman¡¯s clothes. ¡°It will be easier if you don¡¯t wear a bra. Also, why did


    you choose to do it in the washroom? It¡¯s too risky. Won¡¯t it be embarrassing if someone walks in?¡±


    The woman trembled all over. It must have been her first time doing such a thing.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Josie felt warm tears on the back of her hand. She paused and stood up before facing the woman


    calmly. ¡°Will you be leaving on your own or¡­¡±


    ¡±


    The woman ran out of thedies¡® room before Josie could finish her sentence. She was afraid that


    Josie would continue to mock her humiliating state.


    It seemed she still cared about her dignity despite what she did.


    Josie turned around slowly. There was not a hint of anger on her face. Instead, she smiled and asked,


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Dexter looked intimidating when he remained silent. His expression was grim and darkened like a sky


    on the verge of a storm.


    He did not say anything but red at Josie. His gaze filled with unquestionable authority.


    Then, he said gruffly, ¡°Do you have nothing to say?¡±


    Josie remained indifferent. There was none of the jealousy, anger, and distraught a wife should feel.


    Instead, she looked into his eyes calmly. ¡°I didn¡¯t find any hickey on her body. I came here at the wrong


    time.¡±

 Chapter 311

    Chapter 311


    Chapter 311 I¡¯m Willing to Step Down


    Dexter¡¯s chest burned with raging fury. His tone turned icy cold, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°To get your signature.¡± Josie touched his chest and helped him button up his shirt. She showed no


    reaction to the hickeys on his chest. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to interrupt. You should have a good talk with her


    later. or she will be sad¡­¡±


    Dexter grabbed her hand before she could finish speaking. He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it bother


    you?¡±


    Josie looked at him and asked, ¡°What should I be bothered about?¡±


    Dexter leaned down slightly and was momentarily stunned as he looked into her sparkling eyes. She¡¯s


    right. What do I want her to be bothered about?


    He frowned and replied calmly, ¡°Ask me, and I will exin.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes before opening them again. She looked alluring as she said, ¡°But I¡¯m not


    interested to


    know.¡±


    Dexter/knew what she was feeling. ¡°What do you want me to do then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m willing to step down from my position if needed,¡± Josie answered frankly.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Dexter growled.


    ¡°I¡¯m willing to step down if needed¡­¡±


    ¡°I dare you to say it again!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m willing to¡­¡±


    A strong masculine scent suddenly assailed Josie¡¯s nostrils. Suddenly, her lips were forcefully sealed


    by a kiss.


    He bit her lips and pushed his tongue against her teeth, forcing them to open. Then, his tongue dived


    in, filling her mouth with a familiar taste. However, she immediately pushed him away.


    Their chests rose and fell from exertion. At the same time, they red at each other fiercely as if


    seeing their most hated enemies.


    Josie breathed in. Her head felt dizzy. She was unsure why she pushed him away. All she knew was


    that she felt disgusted in the brief moment they kissed.


    ¡°Josie, are you jealous?¡± Dexter opened his eyes and asked earnestly.


    Josie shook slightly as she looked at how stern Dexter was despite being in adies¡® room. He leaned


    down slightly and seemed serious about his question.


    Seeing him like this struck a massive blow to her confidence. Sheughed in anger. ¡°Excuse me, Mr.


    Russell. Why would I be jealous about that? You were only making out with a woman in thedies¡®


    room. It didn¡¯t develop beyond that. All that happened was that she kissed you. I¡¯m not that petty.¡±


    Dexter pressed a hand to his forehead upon hearing her. He took a few steps closer and exined, ¡°A


    business partner tried to scheme against me. He sent the woman to trick me intoing here. I didn¡¯t


    know she would be here.¡±


    Josie calmly retreated a few steps. ¡°Is that so? With your level of intelligence, you must have known


    that it was a trap, right? Yet, you still chose toe here.¡±


    How far would they have gone if I hadn¡¯t shown up?


    Josie was usually not that quarrelsome. She would normally tone down once he exined. However,


    she did not do that this time but disputed with him.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter did not think he had done anything wrong, and his patience ran thin. He narrowed his furiously


    gleaming eyes. ¡°Josie, have you had enough?¡±


    I¡¯ve only just started. He already can¡¯t stand it?


    Josie wanted tough. Hearing his harsh words against her made her determined to argue back. ¡°I


    suppose I can stop now. If I were to bring up all your scandals, it would take days. There would be no


    end to it. After all, you have so many femalepanions.¡±


    On the other hand, I, his legal wife, am as insignificant as an ant to him.


    Her words caused Dexter to burst into fury. He almost cursed out loud. ¡°Josie, why are you still holding


    it against me? I¡¯ve dealt with the giarism matter for you. You didn¡¯t lose anything.¡±


    Dexter still thought he had done a great service for her. That made Josie feel even more dejected.

 Chapter 312

    Chapter 312


    Chapter 312 Divorce Agreement


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°I wonder whether my father will scold me for marrying you rashly if he finds out how unhappy I am


    now.¡±


    Her words were like needles stabbing straight into Dexter¡¯s heart.


    He hated such feelings and retorted harshly. ¡°I¡¯ve told you back then. Our rtionship is purely


    contractual. I grant you status as Mrs. Russell and provide your father with medical treatment in


    exchange for your help at that time. It¡¯s a fair deal. Why are you angry? You can pretend to be pure and


    innocent before me but don¡¯t expect me to cherish you as if you are.¡±


    His every word wounded her heart.


    You can pretend to be pure and innocent before me but don¡¯t expect me to cherish you as if you are.


    Josie could not help but tremble as she looked at him. She had always known he was harsh with his


    words. It turned out he could be this vicious when angry and shattered all her hope with mere few


    words.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Dexter continued harshly, ¡°Speak up if you have something to say. Don¡¯t waste my time.¡±


    His expression was cold as ice. There was not a hint ofpassion.


    Josie shut her eyes tightly and fought hard against the desire to faint.


    I¡¯m truly an idot. Why did I expect him to be merciful with me? Why did I think of waiting for him toe


    around? Now, it seems I was stupidly na?ve.


    His heart is hard as stone. I¡¯m afraid he will never turn gentle for me, not even for appearances.


    Josie could hardly breathe. ¡°Dexter, I wish to request something. I wonder if you are willing to grant it.¡±


    Dexter sneered, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Josie felt words on the tip of her tongue, but she opened and closed her mouth repeatedly, unable to


    say anything.


    She never dared to unleash her full anger at him. She feared he might leave if she told him to.


    Moreover, she knew how insignificant she was to her, so she never dared to throw a tantrum.


    Dexter was still smiling. He mocked her inability to speak, ¡°What is it that you can¡¯t even tell me?¡±


    Josie looked into his eyes and answered, ¡°A divorce agreement.¡±


    Did she cause all this fuss to ask for a divorce agreement?


    Josie witnessed his smile stiffen.


    Although she was afraid, she felt satisfied seeing him like this.


    ¡°Why?¡± His voice turned cold.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking me why?¡± Josie looked at him, opened the folder, and handed him a pen. ¡°I thought you


    wouldn¡¯t care about divorce.¡±


    Dexter did not ept the offered pen. He felt gloom shrouding his heart. ¡°Is it because of Arnold?¡±


    Josie forced him to take the pen. ¡°Please sign the document so I can begin work, Mr. Russell.¡±


    She behaved as if they were already divorced and their rtionship was that of an employer and


    employee.


    In that instant, Dexter sensed they had returned to being strangers. After experiencing many things and


    their physical intimacy, he could never see her as only an employee.


    ¡°Is it for Arnold?¡± Dexter raised his tone. Anger grew in his eyes.


    ¡°You think?¡± Josie mmed the folder shut and stood up against Dexter. ¡°Right, I did it for Arnold. I¡¯m in


    love with him and want to be with him. I want to marry him! Are you happy now?¡±


    Why does he keep refusing to believe that there¡¯s nothing between me and Arnold? Dexter keeps


    running away from his problems and can never empathize with my hurt.

 Chapter 313

    Chapter 313


    Chapter 313 Threaten Her


    Dexter looked at her and nodded slightly.


    Suddenly, he grabbed her wrist and dragged her out by force. Moses was waiting before the car. He


    was so stunned by the sight that he did not notice ashes falling off his cigarette.


    Josie tried to break free but was helpless as he was stronger than her. He opened the door, pushed her


    into the car, and shut it immediately. The door mmed shut loudly.


    Josie fell onto the backseat and felt pain in the back of her head.


    Dexter suddenly pulled out an envelope. It contained a thick stack of photos. Then, he pulled out one


    by one and said, ¡°You think I don¡¯t know. I have photos from your first meeting with him till now. Do you


    need me to refresh your memories?¡±


    He threw the photos at Josie. The sharp edges scratched her face, causing the wound to bleed.


    Josie picked up the photos and found that Dexter was right. He knew everything and was aware of all


    her meetings with Arnold..


    ¡°You stalked me?¡± Josie looked up in astonishment.


    ¡°Why would I do that?¡± Dexter sneered and leaned close to grip her chin. ¡°You are nothing but an


    essory to me. Why would I bother sending someone to follow you? You think too highly of yourself.¡±


    He understood her so well that he knew what to say to hurt her the most.


    Josie looked at him and shuddered all over her body.


    ¡°Arnold had always arranged for someone to send the photos to me after your every meeting with him,¡±


    Dexter said uncaringly, causing her to break down quickly. ¡°Do you know why he did it? Arnold and I


    have been rivals for many years. Everything he did was to hurt me. That¡¯s why he approached you.¡±


    ¡°Josie, it¡¯s not good to take yourself too seriously.¡±


    Dexter was an expert in striking people where it hurts. All her defenses were useless against him.


    Tears fell against her will. She shoved Dexter away and screamed, ¡°What am I to you? A tool? You


    knew I had met him, yet you said nothing. Did watching me running around for you make you feel


    aplished?¡±


    There was no escape from the cramped interior. Dexter red at her in the darkness with eyes filled


    with hatred and disdain.


    His words became even harsher in his disappointment. ¡°He won¡¯t be interested in anyone I discarded,


    so I advise that you stop dreaming about bing Mrs. Carter. I¡¯m telling you this out of good


    intentions.¡±


    You call that good intention?


    Dexter had long driven her to a mental breakdown. She screamed, ¡°Why don¡¯t you kill me. Dexter? You


    might as well kill me!¡±


    Dexter was shrouded with hostility. He opened the door and let the cold wind rush in, causing Josie to


    shiver.


    Without looking at him, she said, ¡°I will send you the divorce agreement.¡±


    Dexter paused but did not turn around. ¡°Whatever. You can do that if you want your father¡¯s. treatment


    to stop.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    He mmed the door again. Josie shuddered, and her lips were pale.


    Moses must have received his order and cautiously got onto the driver¡¯s seat. He did not dare to look


    at the backseat. ¡°He¡­ He told me to send you home.¡±


    Moses turned around when Josie did not respond even after some time. Suddenly, Josie said, ¡°I¡¯m not


    going home.¡±


    Moses frowned. ¡°It¡¯s not the time for you to throw a tantrum. You stand no chance against him.¡±


    Anyone could see that, but Josie refused to heed his word. ¡°I¡¯m not going home. Didn¡¯t you hear?¡±


    Moses had nothing to say.


    ¡°Take me on a drive.¡±


    Moses could not kick her out of the car. He had no choice but to drive around Wavery. They spent the


    whole night traveling all over Wavery. All this while, Josie leaned against the car window in a daze and


    watched the sceneries pass.

 Chapter 314

    Chapter 314


    Chapter 314 White Underwear


    Josie seemed numb and unresponsive, like a zombie.


    She was still wide awake at dawn but was a little tired. Still, she did not feel sleepy at all..


    On the other hand, Moses was exhausted. However, he did not show any annoyance toward Josie but


    asked, ¡°Would you like to have breakfast?¡±


    Josie had no appetite. ¡°You go ahead.¡±


    She yed with her phone for a long time before turning off airne mode to call Arnold.


    Arnold seemed to have just woken up and sounded hoarse. ¡°Josie?¡±


    Josie fell silent. She was unable to interact with him as she usually did.


    ¡°I would like to request your help.¡±


    What Josie liked about Arnold was that he would not ask unnecessary questions. He agreed. readily.


    ¡°I want to investigate Laura and learn about her background and private life. At the same time, I want


    evidence that she giarized my drawing. I will never let her escape,¡± Josie continued.


    She stood in the fresh morning air and felt the mist against her skin. Although her voice was soft, it was


    unmistakably determined.


    Arnold fell silent.


    Josie added, ¡°I know you and her are considered allies, so you can choose to protect her. But if you¡¯re


    willing to help me, I will repay you. It¡¯s your choice. Also, feel free to investigate Dexter.¡±


    After listening to her, Arnold asked, ¡°What happened between you and Dexter?¡±


    Josie did not answer but closed her eyes and hung up.


    Moses returned with a paper bag full of breakfast. Josie asked him to send her to the hospital. Upon


    arriving at the hospital, she suddenly noticed something as she was about to exit the


    car.


    It was stuffed in the corner of the seat.


    The thing was white and had acy hem.


    Josie¡¯s hands shook. She could not believe what she found and asked, ¡°Moses, where did you pick up


    Dexter from yesterday.¡±


    Moses appeared troubled. He pursed his lips and seemed apologetic. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m not permitted to


    reveal this.¡±


    He could only watch as Josie pulled out a white bra from the corner of the seat. The bra looked sexy


    and had a big cup size.


    Moreover, Josie was sitting in the same spot Dexter usually sat.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Moses wanted to say something, but Josie pushed open the car door and ran out to vomit into a nearby


    trashcan.


    He remained stunned and did not know what to say.


    The hospital was filled with the smell of antiseptic in the morning.


    Josie sat before her father¡¯s bed and appeared pale. She looked at him and said slowly, ¡°Dad, I¡¯m


    unhappy¡­¡±


    There was no response except the beeping noises from the equipment.


    It was still early, so Matthew had note to work yet.


    The nurse came to check on Josie¡¯s father and was surprised to see her. ¡°You¡¯re here early.¡±


    Josie nodded but remained silent. After another half an hour, Matthew came to check on her father and


    frowned upon seeing her. ¡°Jo? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    He instantly noticed something unusual about her.


    Then, he went to her and touched her forehead, but her temperature was normal.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just finished working through the night, so I thought to stop by to see Dad.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s eyes shed with concern. ¡°Don¡¯t you have him? There¡¯s no need to work that hard, right?


    Your health is more important.¡±


    Don¡¯t you have him¡­.


    Josie replied tiredly, ¡°Matt, do you also think I¡¯m his arm candy?¡±


    Matt was stumped. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way.¡±


    Josie smiled bitterly and shook her head. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say my father¡¯s condition has improved a lot?


    Why hasn¡¯t he woken up yet?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s much better now, Josie. I believe he will wake up after a little more time.¡± Matthew nced at the


    man lying in bed and encouraged Josie. ¡°Trust me. He will wake up soon.¡±


    ¡°Really? How soon?¡±

 Chapter 315

    Chapter 315


    Chapter 315 You Can Always Rely on Me


    Matthew pursed his lips and sensed her pressure. ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes became welled up with tears again.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    She was on the verge of a mental breakdown. ¡°I want to know how long exactly. I¡¯ve been. waiting for


    three, no, four years. Matt, how much longer do I have to wait.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words reyed in her mind. He would stop her father¡¯s treatment if she divorced him.


    ¡°Jo, Jo¡­.¡± Matthew did not hold back and hugged her. ¡°It will be soon. I¡¯m telling the truth. You have to


    trust me.¡±


    Josie suddenly crumpled after having finally found someone she could rely on. Shetched. onto


    Matthew¡¯s shirt hem and wept.


    She was so exhausted that she could barely walk. Thus, Matthew brought her to his office and let her


    rest on his couch. He guessed something had happened to her but did not dare ask.


    Josie could not help but fall asleep. She seemed peaceful as she slept and looked adorable as a child.


    Matthew watched her in a daze until the head nurse rushed in. ¡°Dr. Sander¡­¡±


    She stopped in her tracks. ¡°Is she¡­¡±


    Matthew stood up immediately. ¡°Is there anything wrong? What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Yes, please sign this. The nurse was older and instantly understood the situation. She nced at


    Josie and said, ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, she¡¯s married, right?¡±


    Matthew¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°Yes.¡±


    The nurse sighed. ¡°This is not proper.¡±


    ¡°My sister has a daughter. She is beautiful and attends medical school. Would you like me to introduce


    her to you?¡±


    ¡°Forget it.¡± Matthew signed the form. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in going on a blind date.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t keep pining for the impossible. A man like you can easily have any other woman. Please heed


    my advice and let her go.¡±


    As a bystander, she could see how this would end badly.


    Matthew put


    the pen away and seemed at a loss. ¡°I can¡¯t let go.¡±


    Josie woke up in the afternoon and felt sore all over her body. She opened her eyes and saw Matthew


    working at his desk. The sunlight shone on him, putting a halo over the crown of his head as if he were


    an angel descended from above.


    Matthew sensed her gaze and asked with a smile, ¡°Why are you staring at me?¡±


    Josie massaged her neck. ¡°I wondered how it felt to be an angel that saves lives and heals the


    wounded.¡±


    ¡°You should eat something. I ordered takeaway. The soup is still warm.¡± Matthew smiled and brought


    the food over.


    ¡°I won¡¯t be eating it. I don¡¯t have any appetite.¡± Josie still seemed depressed. ¡°I should leave. Matt,


    thank you for letting me stay here.¡±


    ¡°Jo!¡± Matthew shouted after her. ¡°You mustn¡¯t face everything by yourself. You cane to me if you¡¯re


    in trouble. You can always rely on me.¡±


    Josie smiled. His words were a shot of encouragement in her present state.


    She did not return to Mason Garden but checked into a hotel. Surprisingly, Dexter did not. send anyone


    to drag her home. He probably knew she could not leave Wavery and decided.


    to let her be.


    The sky darkened earlier at the beginning of spring.


    However, the city remained busy. Time seemed to freeze as the long lines of cars stuck in the traffic


    jam below.


    The light in the hotel room was dim. Josie hugged her knees and sat before the bay window. Her hair


    flowed down her shoulders and concealed half of her face. One could still see her beauty even under


    the dim light.


    Josie turned to the window and saw a vast expanse of scenery outside.


    She suddenly recalled when she was angry with Dexter and went to a movie with Kevan. After leaving


    the cinema, she used Dexter¡¯s card to go on a shopping spree. Yet, he was not angry but raised her


    credit limit. She even invited Arnold to the hotel to make Dexter jealous.


    After everything, Dexter let her press him onto the bed and have her way with him. She was most


    moved by him at that moment. It was because she could feel he cared for her, at least a little. (2)

 Chapter 316

    Chapter 316


    Chapter 316 A Friend from University


    Perhaps her love for him made her feel ted whenever he was a little nice to her However, if he were


    even slightly mean to her, she would wonder whether she had done something wrong


    Thus, the yielded to him over everything and was constantly afraid that she would lose him anytime.


    Unfortunately, Dexter would never understand such feelings. After all, she was not someone he


    cherished.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie waited for Arnold¡¯s call for the next few days. However, all she received was Matthew¡¯s invitation.


    He invited her to meet at a revolving restaurant on top of a building. Josie searched for the table based


    on the description in his message and soon saw him seated at a table with his back facing her. She


    calmed her thoughts and slowly approached the table. Suddenly, she sensed something was wrong.


    There was a woman seated opposite him.


    Josie paused immediately.


    The woman was petite and had a shy smile on her delicate face. While she was not considered


    beautiful. her eyes were bright and charming.


    Josie was stunned.


    This woman was her best friend during university, Nancy Stewart.


    Nancy was not originally from Wavery. She returned to Rivodia, her hometown, after graduation. They


    each became busy with adult lives and gradually lost contact.


    Nancy bit on the drinking straw and looked up to find Josie stunned at her spot. She called out softly,


    Josie?¡±


    Josie shut her eyes to stop herself from tearing up. As she walked to the table, Matthew stood up and


    looked at her apologetically. ¡°Jo, you seem downtely. I happened to see your friend¡¯sment on


    Facebook and asked her to see you. Please don¡¯t be angry.


    He intended well.


    Josie smiled. I¡¯m not angry.¡±


    ¡°Jo, Nancy called her name tentatively.


    Josie turned to her with a genuine smile. ¡°Nancy, it¡¯s been a long time.¡±


    She sat beside her and patted her hair. ¡°What brings you to Wavery? Are you here alone?¡±


    Nancy instinctively nced at Matthew and seemed concerned about something. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m a high


    school teacher¡­. but it¡¯s not a school in Wavery.¡± She added thetter part for rification.


    Josie was surprised. ¡°A teacher?¡±


    Nancy smiled and exined, ¡°Iter decided to study hard¡­ but I¡¯m still far from your level. The tutor


    always liked to talk about how brilliant you were back then.¡±


    Matthew saw her smile and was d that he had called Nancy here.


    The waiter soon served the food. Matthew took Josie¡¯s bowl and filled it with soup. Then, he ced it


    before her and said. ¡°You look pale. Are you not feeling well?¡±


    Matthew spoke gently andfortingly, calming Josie¡¯s frustration instantly. She rested her head on


    her propped hand and answered, ¡°Yes, a little.¡±


    Matthew frowned. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Josie looked down.


    Matthew did not rx his frown. ¡°Jo, I want to know why your mood changed so drastically. Did


    something happen?¡±


    Josie remained silent. She did not want to talk about it.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the time to talk about this. Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Nancy noticed something wrong halfway through the meal and left the table with Josie with the excuse


    of going to the washroom.


    A Friend from University.


    Her glory during her university days was all in the past.


    Josie sighed and believed Nancy had probably let go of the matter. At least she was able to talk about


    the topic calmly.


    Then, Josie and Nancy talked about their present lives. Josie mentioned she recently faced nder


    and giarism. Nancy pped the table furiously and nearly jumped up from her seat. ¡°How dare they


    do this. to you!¡±


    Josie smiled and was touched by her concern.

 Chapter 317

    Chapter 317


    Chapter 317 He¡¯s Not the One


    Once alone, Nancy asked softly, ¡®I can tell from his words and actions that he¡¯s a sincere man.


    Furthermore, he has a good job and cares tremendously about you. So, are you¡­.*


    Joste looked at her and replied solemnly. ¡°There¡¯s nothing between us. If I must describe our


    rtionship. he¡¯s only a friend.¡±


    Nancy frowned and was stunned. Suddenly, she understood something. ¡®Are you in love with someone


    else?¡±


    Josie looked down, unable to deny her words. I¡¯m already married.¡±


    Nancy widened her eyes at the shocking revtion. Her tone instantly changed. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    She¡¯s married? How could she be married?


    Josie considered. Even though her disappointment toward Dexter grew, she still could not get him out


    of her mind or forget the things that happened between them.


    ¡°I got marriedst year.¡±


    The sudden revtion left Nancy breathless. Her chest heaved and fell as she asked incredulously,


    ¡°Does Matthew know?¡±


    ¡°He knows. Josie shook her head helplessly. ¡°Matthew is a calm person. However, the calmer he is, the


    more difficult it is for me to say anything to him. I feel guilty whenever he is being nice to me. I hope


    you can help me to advise him.¡±


    Nancy looked at Josie bewilderedly. ¡°Who did you marry?¡±


    Josie looked into Nancy¡¯s eyes and slowly shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s not who you think.¡±


    Nancy gradually stepped back. Her brow furrowed tightly. ¡°I thought it would be¡­.¡±


    ¡°He and I will never be together.¡±


    At the same time, the lights were switched on in another spacious room. It seemed like a warm and


    cozy home.


    A man sat cross-legged on the floor. He looked down slightly, casting a shadow on his gloomy but


    exquisite face.


    His slender fingers were beautiful under the light. They held a high-resolution photo that showed a


    meek- looking woman.


    The woman looked down as she walked along a well-illuminated street. Her white dress fluttered


    slightly as she walked. She looked stunning against the night scenery.


    More photos covered the floor near the man¡¯s feet. One of them showed her walking; another showed


    her entering a hotel. There was also a photo of her sitting before the bay window and one showing her


    slumped over the table, crying. Each picture showed a different action or scene but was about the


    same


    woman.


    Someone knocked on the door and came in, holding an envelope. He offered it to the man. ¡°Mr.


    Russell. Mrs. Russell went out today.¡±


    Dexter epted the envelope expressionlessly. He quickly tore it open and took out the photos, still


    warm from printing. Then, he looked at them one by one. His expression gradually turned grimmer than


    it had ever been in the past few days.


    He violently threw the photos on the floor. Josie, just you wait!


    Nancy stayed in Wavery for two days. When it was time for her to return to Rivodia, Josie and Matthew


    sent her off. Before entering the security checkpoint, Nancy said, ¡°Let¡¯s meet again someday.¡±


    Matthew hugged her and thanked her.


    Then, Nancy came to Josie. Her voice sounded cold and stiff as she said, ¡°Let me know if you ever


    come to Rivodia. I¡¯ll bring you around.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Did something happen between you and Nancy?¡± Matthew asked as he drove. ¡°Something seems off.¡±


    Josie lied without thinking. ¡°We hadn¡¯t met for a long time. It¡¯s bound to be a little awkward.¡±


    Matthew grunted and asked casually, ¡°Do you feel better after talking to her?¡±


    Josie had a bitter taste in her mouth upon hearing him. She adjusted her tone and took a deep breath


    before answering. ¡°Thank you, Matt, for working hard to help me. However, my trouble is not something


    friends can easily resolve.¡±

 Chapter 318

    Chapter 318


    Chapter 318 I Love You


    Matthew focused on driving and did not speak.


    ¡°I¡¯m a selfish person and have many ws. People who get too close to me usually don¡¯t end well. Matt,


    you¡­


    Matthew pursed his lips as he listened to her. He ced a hand on his forehead and interrupted her.


    ¡°Do you remember the situation of our first meeting?¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie considered. ¡°Yes, I worked in a bar then and got into a dispute with another girl. The dispute


    turned physical, but thankfully, you arrived to restrain her¡­ Otherwise, I could have ended up severely


    injured.¡±


    Matthew smiled and replied, ¡°I never get involved in strangers¡¯ matters, so think again. Where else


    have you seen me?¡±


    Josie looked at his face and frowned. She could not remember anything. Then, she came clean. ¡°I


    forgot.¡±


    ¡°It was in a physics ss at Wavery University. You rushed into the ssroom with a cup of


    Frappino. and bumped into me, spilling it all over me.¡± Matthew smiled as he recalled the past.


    ¡°We were in the same university?¡± Josie was surprised, but she could not remember anything. Then,


    she asked, ¡°What was my reaction?¡±


    ¡°You seemed distraught and gave me the cup with some Frappino left, saying it was a gift for me.


    Then¡­ You ran away. Matthew reyed the memory in his mind and could not help but smile with


    amusement. ¡°Later, I found out you¡¯re the person who surpassed me and took first ce in my major.¡±


    Josie understood what he was talking about, but she had no memory of them. She ruffled her hair and


    replied. ¡°I was only lucky that time.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect us to be connected through so many thingster.¡± Matthew looked at her and continued,


    ¡°I did not expect to remain in contact with you because of your father¡¯s condition.¡±


    Josie said, ¡°I feel life should not have be like this. It feels like something went off the rail along the


    way.¡±


    Matthew asked, ¡°What is your ideal life like?¡±


    It was a good question. Josie smiled dreamily. ¡°In my ideal life, my father would be healthy, and I would


    have gone overseas to study design. My life would have taken apletely different turn. I would


    travel to numerous countries to see the world and meet people from different walks of life. Perhaps we


    would meet at a different ce and time. We might have a drink before going our separate ways. There


    wouldn¡¯t have been so much entanglement¡­¡±


    ¡°What would happen next?¡±


    What would happen next? Josie¡¯s smile froze. Her mind suddenly went nk. She subconsciously felt


    that the life she imagined did not interest her.


    Matthew stopped the car once they arrived at the destination. He unfastened the seatbelt and turned to


    Josie. His heart suddenly thumped nervously. Then, he said, ¡°Josie, I felt fear when I listened to you


    talking about your ideal life. Instead of yearning for the ideal life, I feel our life now is better. Despite all


    the challenges and troubles, I¡¯m thankful and d to have met you¡±


    Josie took a deep breaths and remained dazed for some time.


    ¡°Matt¡­¡±


    I prefer our life as it is. I will do my best to save your father so that it will make you feel that life is


    worthwhile


    ¡°Why?¡± Josie was stunned.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I love you.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips and could not speak. Even now, there was only one man in her mind. That man


    was


    Dexter.


    She could not imagine how her life would be without him. All she knew was that it would be dull. It


    would not be as eventful as now and be filled with joys and disappointments.


    But Matthew¡¯s confession told her she was what he looked forward to in life.


    She thought it would be unfair if she didn¡¯t tell him the truth.


    ¡°Matt¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ve fallen in love with him.¡±

 Chapter 319

    Chapter 319


    Chapter 319 Make Him Give Up


    Josie saw Matthew¡¯s expression gradually turn grim, but he soon appeared normal again.


    ¡°I know.¡±


    Josie was surprised by his response. ¡°You knew?¡±


    Matthew rested his dominant hand on the steering wheel and seemed exhausted. ¡°Jo, there¡¯s probably


    no one in the world who understands you better than I do. That includes him. I have witnessed your joy.


    anger, and tears for three years. You are terrible at hiding your emotions.¡±


    He understood her too well. Josie knew it was pointless to put up a front before him. She had no choice


    but to show him her true self.


    ¡°When did you find out?¡±


    Matthew smiled bitterly and looked at the setting sun. ¡°It¡¯s in your eyes whenever you look at him.¡±


    Josie thought she hid it well. In actuality, her affection for Dexter was so evident that any bystander


    could see it.


    Silence followed. Josie looked down and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Honestly, I knew you had feelings for me


    since -long ago.¡±


    Matthew smiled slightly. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    She did not want to tell him that it was Dexter who kept reminding her.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be sorry about. You only can¡¯t return my feelings. That¡¯s nothing to apologize for,¡±


    Matthew replied without looking at her. His hands shook slightly on the steering wheel. ¡°Is he good to


    you?¡±


    ¡°Good?¡± Josic muttered, ¡°Sometimes, he¡¯s so good to me that it feels like he¡¯s willing to bring down the


    stars for me. However, when he¡¯s mean¡­¡± He could be cruel.


    ¡°A prominent man like him must have plenty of ways to deal with someone. Matthew was a good judge


    of human character. He pitied Josie and felt helpless about her situation.


    Josie could not deny that Dexter had many methods at his disposal if he wanted to punish someone.


    Still, he had not done anything to her. However, even his scolding was enough to make her depressed.


    ¡°Jo, you need to take good care of yourself. Let me handle the matters concerning your father, okay?¡±


    Matthew patted her shoulder and encouraged her. ¡°You can call me whenever you need my help¡±


    Josie retreated from him. ¡°Matt, I¡¯m sorry. This would be unfair to you. I shouldn¡¯t do this. Let¡¯s not meet


    outside the hospital from now on.¡±


    Manhew¡¯s hand hovered in the air. His gaze seemed even more forlorn than before.


    I only see you as my brother. Furthermore, you deserve a good woman by your side. That woman is


    not


    me.¡±


    Josie opened the door and left.


    The best way to make someone give up was to cut off all contact.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie knew it was cruel to do this, but she was unsure whether she could avoid taking advantage of his


    feelings for her.


    Her conscience could not bear it.


    Bonus


    Four days had passed since Josie spoke to Arnold, but he still had not contacted her. She could not


    stand not doing anything while waiting and decided to return to Russell Group.


    The employees in the design department were used to hering to workte. As the superior, she


    had freedom in choosing when to go to work. However, that did not stop people from discussing her.


    They wondered why she had recently be careless about work and behaved as if she did not fear


    anyone.


    Josie¡¯s phone rang while she reviewed a project during the daily meeting. She nced at the screen


    but did not answer it. However, everyone stared at her curiously, so she had no choice but to excuse


    herself. She answered the call before she could get out of the meeting room.


    ¡°The first prize?¡± Josie whispered in disbelief.


    Alice could not resist her curiosity and leaned closer to listen in. ¡°Is it the first prize for Interior Design


    Awards?¡±


    Those words sent the meeting room buzzing with excitement. ¡°My goodness!¡±


    Josie is the first prize winner for this year?¡±

 Chapter 320

    Chapter 320


    Chapter 320 Bankruptcy


    Alice saw Josie¡¯s aloofness after hanging up andplimented her non-stop. ¡°Jo, you¡¯re brilliant. You


    won Interior Design Awards¡¯ first prize at only twenty-three years old! Do you know what this means?*


    ¡°My goodness. Why isn¡¯t Laura here? I need to make her regret looking down on you!¡°


    Winning the prize was an incredible achievement for a twenty-three-year-old woman. One should know


    that the youngest winner was twenty-eight before Josie broke the record.


    As the winner, she would be the new standard in the design industry for the following year.


    ¡°Say something? Are you in shock?¡± Alice tugged Josie¡¯s arm.


    Josie nced at the anticipating crowd and said calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s continue with the meeting.¡±


    ¡°Huh.¡±


    ¡°D¡±mn, why is she acting like she¡¯s better than everyone.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie did not have the mind to care about the whisperings around her. Her mind was preupied with


    what themittee had told her on the phone. After telling her about her winning, they added. ¡°We


    have cklisted ire from thepetition for life formitting nder and giarizing your work.


    The -whole industry will soon boycott her, so don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Such swift action could only mean a certain someone had a hand in this.


    Just now, Josie desperately wanted to scream that ire was not the instigator. Instead, the real culprit


    was Laura, who won second prize.


    However, she could not say it.


    After the meeting. Josie stopped Alice and asked, ¡°Did Laurae to work recently?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen her even once. I thought both of you arranged to bete and skip work together. The


    design department is having some difficulty without its two key figures.¡±


    Josie felt guilty upon hearing that. ¡°Something happened recently, I won¡¯t bete again.¡±


    She had relied on wise sayings to sustain her for three years while her father was severely ill.


    Men are unreliable, so one might as well depend on oneself. Moreover, one can afford to lose a man


    but not work.


    Unfortunately, Dexter is my boss. He can fire me from my job whenever he wants.


    No wonder thepany doesn¡¯t allow office romance¡­.


    Josie could not help but feel afraid after his cruel words to her. She could not yet hand in the divorce


    agreement for her father¡¯s sake.


    After leaving thepany, Josie hailed a taxi to bring her somewhere. She instructed the taxi driver to


    send her to the house Dexter had brought her to apologize to Laura. She believed it was the Brandel


    family¡¯s home.


    She never expected to visit there again on her ownL


    After getting out of the car, no servants came to greet her. Instead, she saw people moving all kinds of


    things from the house. It seemed something had happened.


    Josie frowned and asked, ¡°Sir, what are you doing?¡±


    The man looked at her vigntly. ¡°What¡¯s your rtionship with the people in this house?¡±


    Josie answered tentatively. ¡°Employer.


    ¡°What the heck? The Brandel family has gone bankrupt. How can they be an employer?¡± The man


    laughed mockingly and instructed people to move things from the house.


    Bankrupt? Josie widened her eyes in shock.


    She realized these people were creditors who came to demand payment.


    The Brandel family was likely unable to pay, so they moved everything from the house as coteral.


    Josie sensed something was wrong and hurried into the yard. She saw a broken and tired woman


    seated in the living room. The woman seemed to have given up and did nothing as people moved


    things past her.


    Josie was shocked by the scene. She came to the woman and realized she was Laura.


    Are you also here to demand money? I don¡¯t have it.¡±


    Laura did not even bother to look up.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± Josie asked coldly.


    Hearing her voice, Laura looked up at Josie nkly,


    ¡°Why are you here? Did youe to mock me?¡±


    It seemed Laura had suffered through scorn and contempt recently.


    ¡°Mock you? I don¡¯t have time for that. Where¡¯s your father?¡±


    Lauraughed and looked heart-wrenchingly pitiful. ¡°What do you expect? He has always been an


    irresponsible man. He abandoned my mother and me once. What¡¯s stopping him from abandoning us


    again?¡±

 Chapter 321

    Chapter 321


    Chapter 321 It Wasn¡¯t Her


    Laura sat still and answered emotionlessly. ¡°He ran off.¡±


    Josie recalled that Laura¡¯s father looked like an elegant gentleman. ¡°He ran off?¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    It felt cruel that her family secrets were exposed at this moment.


    ¡°What about your grandfather? I remember he¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s hospitalized for cerebral hemorrhage. No one knows whether he will survive.¡± Laura¡¯s tone


    remained indifferent as if she was merely a bystander.


    Josie was stunned. She did not expect Laura to be going through such severe matters. ¡°How did the


    family go bankrupt?¡±


    Laura no longer had the patience to answer her question. She pushed herself to stand up. ¡°Why are


    you here?¡±


    What do you think?¡± Josie¡¯s tone was also impatient. Her predicament was not enough reason for Josie


    forgive her.


    She stared at Josie before breaking out inughter. ¡°I don¡¯t have time to y a guessing game You


    better get straight to the point.¡±


    with you.


    Josie observed Laura. Her gaze seemed calm and open. There was not a hint of guilt from having done


    something wrong.


    ¡°What is it, Josie? Are you here tough at me?¡± Laura continued through gritted teeth. She seemed on


    the verge of a mental breakdown.


    Josie took a deep breath and sensed something was wrong. ¡°You haven¡¯t been to work for many days.


    As the supervisor, I have to check if something is wrong.¡±


    Those words seemed to calm Laura¡¯s mood considerably. She looked away and said. Tve been absent


    from work for so long. Dex must be angry with me.¡±


    He¡¯s not angry with you at all. In fact, he even got mad at me because of you. Josie thought to herself.


    Then, she said, ¡°He¡¯s not angry, but I am.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch.¡±


    Laura stood still and did not move.


    ¡°You still have to eat even though your family is bankrupt.¡± Josie nced at the surrounding. ¡°Or


    perhaps you have something valuable to guard in this house?¡±


    Laura flushed red before turning pale.


    In the end, she followed Josie out of the house. Josie brought her to a nearby restaurant. As expected,


    everything was expensive in the wealthy neighborhood. Josie felt the pain in her wallet as the ordered


    food


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry.¡° Laura remained uncooperative.


    ¡°But I¡¯wo hungry¡± Josie picked up a toast and munched on it. ¡°Can you tell me when did it happen!


    ¡°It was two days after Russell Group¡¯s tenth anniversary.¡±


    Josie calcted in her mind and realized it was quite some time ago. She narrowed her eyes and


    asked. ¡°Was it due to poor management?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡± Laura took a deep breath and continued, ¡°He was interested in a project and invested all the


    family¡¯s wealth into it,¡±


    It was clear who was the he¡¯ Laura referred to.


    She probably did not expect to lose her status overnight and be an ordinarypany employee.


    Josie suddenly understood why Dexter insisted on taking away the recording device. It was so that


    Laura would not be left destitute. Josie wondered if he knew about the bankruptcy in advance.


    She focused on cutting her steak. ¡°Apart from this, do you have anything else to tell me?¡±


    Laura finally looked straight at her. ¡°Josie, what nonsense is this? I don¡¯t owe you anything. You must


    be happy seeing me in this state.¡±


    ¡°Oh, by the way, congrattions on winning the first prize. Did youe here to get me to congratte


    you? Isn¡¯t that petty?¡±


    Her tone was sarcastic. However, it further confirmed Josie¡¯s suspicion that it was not her who peeked


    at her drawing


    Since it wasn¡¯t her, why was Derter so protective of her?

 Chapter 322

    Chapter 322


    Chapter 322 Asking to Borrow Money


    ¡°You should eat something ¡°Josie ced the sliced steak before Laura but did to exin why she did


    that ¡°You will face a lot more challenges from now on. How are you to face them if you won¡¯t


    Laura looked at her suspiciously. ¡°You¡¯re strange. Josie. Stop pretending to be nice. Don¡¯t you hate


    me?¡±


    ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t,¡± Josie answered frankly. She did detest Laura a bit, but it was only because she


    mistook Laura ndered her for giarism. Other than that, she had no reason to hate her.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Apart from your self-inted ego, unreasonableness, and arrogance, you are actually quite kind.


    Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t have gotten yourself injured to save me.¡± Josie smiled. ¡°Perhaps you¡¯re a bit


    dumb, but I don¡¯t hate pretty bimbos.¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression darkened slightly. She could not tell whether Josie wasplementing or mocking


    her


    ¡°You¡¯re the dumb bimbo!¡±


    Josie rested her face on her hand. ¡°If you¡¯re unsure how to handle hospital matters, call me. I might not


    know much about other things, but I have dealt with hospital matters for years. So, I know a thing or


    two about every department in the hospital.


    Laura reluctantly ate some food. Suddenly, Josie did not seem as annoying to her as before.


    ¡°Are you trying to show off?¡±


    ¡°Miss, who would want to show off about hospital matters?¡± Josie retorted in disbelief.


    Laura was stumped. She paused briefly, saying, ¡°Can you not tell Dex about my situation?¡±


    Josie choked upon hearing her. ¡°I don¡¯t have to say anything. He probably already knows¡­¡±


    Laura widened her eyes in realization before smiling bitterly. ¡°You¡¯re right. Everyone in Wavery


    probably already knows.¡±


    It was a harsh world and materialistic world. Everyone who had ttered Laura turned on after her


    family became bankrupt. She must have suffered from their disdain and abandonment.


    Later, Josie went outside to wait for her ride. Laura remained in the restaurant and looked at her from


    the window. Her gaze seemed dazed.


    She gripped her phone and hesitated for a long time before dialing a number. The call rang for a long


    time before someone answered, ¡°Hello?¡±


    Laura took a deep breath before saying. ¡°Is it okay if I borrow some money from you?¡±


    A blue Cayenne arrived to pick her up. Her expression changed slightly as she saw the car.


    The driver came out to open the door for her. ¡°Ms. Warren, pleasee in.¡±


    Josie hesitated briefly and was not sure how she should face the man.


    Asking to Borrow Money


    Arnold wore a ck shirt and was engrossed in reading a newspaper. He seemed a perfect image of


    self-


    restraint.


    He nced at her and smiled. ¡°Seems like I don¡¯t have to buy you lunch.¡±


    Josie looked at him firmly. ¡°Is this why you didn¡¯t respond for so long?¡±


    Hearing her, Arnold folded the newspaper and set it aside. The Brandel family had deep pockets, but


    most of their wealthy had been squandered in recent years. Laura knew nothing about it. She¡¯s like a


    younger sister that I¡¯ve watched growing up. I have to give her a hand¡±


    His words made Laura seem like the bad guy.


    ¡°Also, she has nothing to do with what happened to you in thepetition.¡±


    The car traveled steadily. Josie looked out the window, but the spring scenery gave her nofort.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Are you and Dexter biological brothers? Otherwise, how did information travel between you two so


    soon?¡± Josie said mockingly.


    However, Arnold was not angry. He crossed his legs and replied, ¡°I have people in Heaven on Earth.¡±


    In other words, he already knew everything.


    His directness rendered Josie speechless. She red at him and said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I would reveal


    your


    secret.¡±


    ¡°You can tell anyone you want.¡± Arnoldughed.


    Hisughter angered Josie so much that she desperately wanted to wipe the smug look off his face.

 Chapter 323

    Chapter 323


    Chapter 323 giarism Exposed


    Arnold brought her to a quiet caf¨¦. Josie refused to go in, but he did not force her


    She knew she had no chance of escape. Thus, she remained in the car and took a nap. However,


    various thoughts would bother her as soon as she closed her eyes. Furthermore, Dexter¡¯s face


    appeared clearly among the fragmented memories.


    It caused her to be unable to sleep.


    Since sleep was futile, Josie took out a sketchbook from her bag. She nced around, trying to decide


    what she should draw. Then, she noticed Arnold was seated at a seat by the window. His hair was


    slightly messy, but his face looked handsome from any angle. He had a rtively high nose bridge and


    looked a little foreboding as he pursed his lips.


    She could not resist picking up her pencil and drawing an outline of his appearance. The pencil lead


    produced soothing noises as it glided on the paper.


    After half an hour, Josie patted the paper and propped it up. Her drawing of Arnold appeared life-like.


    Moreover, she was satisfied with how she sketched the shadow beneath hisshes.


    However, she was still bored, so she touched up and edited the hastily sketched drawing.


    She was so engrossed in it that she did not notice someone appearing beside her.


    ¡°What are you drawing? A familiar voice sounded.


    Josie was surprised by the voice and loosened her grip, allowing the sketch to fly from her hands and


    land: by Arnold¡¯s feet.


    Arnold looked down to see what it was. Josie was so embarrassed that she desperately wished the


    ground would swallow her whole.


    He picked up the drawing and looked at it earnestly. He seemed satisfied with it. ¡°You draw well¡±


    Josie was not sure how she should respond. ¡°Are you praising my artistic skills or bragging about your


    good looks?¡±


    Then, she felt she needed to rify the matter. ¡°I didn¡¯t set out to draw you. I was just¡­ bored.¡±


    Arnold leaned against the car door. He seemed a little smug as he waved the drawing. ¡°Can you give


    this to


    me?¡±


    Josie was left with no choice. ¡°Sure, as long as you don¡¯t use it to sue me.¡±


    Im not that petty.¡±


    It was early evening. Josie was pondering something when she received a call from Alice. ¡°It¡¯s bad.


    Interior Design Awards announced that someone discovered that your drawing had many simrities


    with ire¡¯s!


    Josie frowned and thought to check the announcement with her phone, but it was inconvenient with an


    ongoing phone call. Arnold offered his phone and said, ¡°Use mine.¡±


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    News of giarism was already all over Twitter.


    1/2


    <


    Chapter 323 giarism Exposed


    Alice asked, ¡°This is nder, right? Are you looking for evidence?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. I suspect someone in thepany is behind this.¡±


    #5 Bonus


    ¡°Let¡¯s not worry about that for now. You need to go online immediately and check Twitter!¡± Alice¡¯s tone


    grew more urgent.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know who posted ire and your designs on Twitter, but thement section is exploding with


    criticism.¡±


    The post was posted from a burner ount. It had no words and contained only photos. One was a


    photo of Josie¡¯s design with her signature ringly visible below. The postpared it with ire¡¯s


    drawing and caused an uproar,


    Isn¡¯t Josie the one who made a public announcement?¡±


    ¡®She won Interior Design Awards with a giarized drawing. It makes me skeptical about Russell


    Group¡¯s standard.


    ¡°There are many giarism cases these days, but I¡¯ve never seen one as obvious as this. What the


    heck?¡¯


    The number ofments grew to thirty thousand within a short period. At the same time,izens


    fervently trended #RussellGroupJosie giarism. The matter had gotten out of control.


    It seemed someone deliberately dragged Russell Group into this matter. Thus, Josie knew she was not


    the only one being targeted.


    She nced at Arnold, but he raised his eyebrows, indicating that he had nothing to do with this.


    Thements were filled with harsh and vicious words. Josie did not know any of these people, but


    that did not stop them from making malicious spections against her.

 Chapter 324

    Chapter 324


    Chapter 324 Loss of Trust


    Strangely, Josie became calmer as she read on. Even though this was her first time experiencing such


    a situation, she knew the public had cklisted her.


    It was unpleasant to be reviled by the public.


    Public opinions were destructive inrge numbers.


    Josie remained silent for a long time, prompting Alice to call out worriedly, ¡°Josic, Josie? Are you still


    there?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Josie returned the phone to Arnold. ¡°All I can say is if someone wished to get me boycotted, she


    has seeded.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Alice was worried about Josie. ¡°Should I get someone to find the IP address for you?¡±


    ¡°No need. We won¡¯t be able to find it. Let¡¯s not waste our energy.¡± Josie was so calm that it was scary.


    ¡°Anyway, thank you, Alice.¡±


    She hung up and looked squarely at Arnold.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me?¡±


    ¡°Was it you?¡± Josie asked solemnly. The person targeted me and dragged Russell Group in. Of all the


    people I know, you¡¯re the only one who could have wanted to do this.¡±


    ¡°Your reason is unjustified.¡±


    ¡°I hope you wille clean to me.¡±


    Arnold replied solemnly, ¡°Would you believe me if I say it wasn¡¯t me?¡±


    He was right. Josie did not believe him even after he denied it. She looked away. ¡°You have depleted


    all my trust for you.¡±


    Arnold pursed his lips and checked the surroundings before entering the car. ¡°What did Dexter tell


    you?¡±


    It was nine o¡¯clock at night when Dexter came out of a meeting on the top floor of Russell Group.


    It was pitch ck outside the floor-to-ceiling window.


    Dexter carried his jacket and undid the top two buttons of his white shirt. He appeared stern as usual.


    His secretary was checking something on an iPad. She rushed to Dexter upon seeing him. ¡°Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    Dexter handed the jacket to her and walked ahead steadily. His voice was low and solemn as he said,


    ¡°Has she returned?¡±


    The secretary understood who he meant and answered, ¡°Not yet.¡±


    Dexter paused and frowned slightly.


    The secretary showed him the iPad. ¡°Mrs. Russell is in trouble.¡±


    Dexter stared at the iPad screen. It was the Twitter post exposing giarism of Josie¡¯s design drawing.


    He


    |||


    1/2


    Chapter 321 Loss of Trust


    read through thements speedily, but they kept increasing. Everyment contained offensive


    words against Josie.


    His gaze shed threateningly. However, he immediatelyposed himself and appeared calm. ¡°Have


    you found out who did it?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    The secretary thought Dexter would be furious or at least show some reaction. Unexpectedly. Dexter


    behaved as if the matter waspletely unrted to him.


    She asked cautiously, ¡°Mr. Russell, should we¡­ help her?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Dexter put his hands in his pockets and paused before his office door. He nced in and stayed still,


    feeling something pressing on his heart. He needed something to relieve that oppressing feeling.


    Dexter hated such emotions.


    Then, he came to his senses and made a sudden decision. He returned the iPad to his secretary and


    said coldly. ¡°Get rid of this mess, and don¡¯t let me see it again.¡±


    The secretary¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Mr. Russell may seem heartless, but he will still protect his loved ones. Moreover, he makes sure to


    protect them thoroughly.


    She entered the secretaries¡¯ office and rushed to her colleague¡¯s desk. ¡°Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t want to see


    these trashy posts. Congrattions! You will have to work overtime tonight.¡±


    Her colleague groaned. ¡°This job has be unbearable ever since Ms. Miller left.¡±

 Chapter 325

    Chapter 325


    Chapter 325 Prison Visitation


    ¡°Hey!¡± The secretary immediately nced outside. ¡°Don¡¯t ever let Mr. Russell hear this.¡±


    The colleague became silent and asked cautiously. ¡°But I don¡¯t understand. What happened to Ivy?


    What was her mistake that Mr. Russell made her leave?¡±


    The two looked at a photo of Dexter and Ivy. Neither could understand why Ivy was ced on


    compulsory leave. Being on mandatory vacation may seem good, but it was only one step away from


    being fired from her position.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. It¡¯s better not to question some things.¡±


    Arnold brought Josie to the cafe he went to just now. The shop owner¡¯s expression brightened when he


    saw Arnold return with a woman. ¡°Mr. Carter, is she.¡±


    ¡°Bring us a pot of green tea.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± he replied, eyes still fixed on Josie.


    The caf¨¦¡¯s private lounge was decorated in antique style. One could see the heavy traffic on the street.


    -outside. Josie was distracted. ¡°Why did you bring me here? I want to return to Russell Group now.¡±


    ¡°To find the traitor?¡± Arnold poured her a cup of tea. It was still piping hot.


    ¡°Yes. Josie nced at him.


    ¡°You believe it¡¯s an insider¡¯s job?¡±


    ¡°Only the staff in the design department had ess to my drawings.¡±


    ¡°Even if one of the staff in the design department did it, they would have deleted the surveince


    record. So, what¡¯s the point of going there?¡± Arnold calmly exposed the ws of Josie¡¯s n.


    He¡¯s right. I won¡¯t be able to find anything in the surveince record.


    Josie calmed down and considered who in the design department hated her. She could think of a few,


    but they were petty rather than vicious. Furthermore, Alice was the only person who knew Josie had


    joined the Interior Design Award.


    She could not help but worry and turned on her phone to see how the post had spread. However, she


    tapped into Twitter and found the post gone. No one seemed to be discussing the matter.


    Josie frowned and logged out before logging in again. There was still nothing-


    ¡°Give me your phone.¡±


    Arnold took out his phone and ced it in her hand.


    Josie searched for the post again but could not find it.


    ¡°The trending topic is gone. Josie muttered in shock.


    ¡°The discussion endangered Russell Group, so the public rtions department managed to remove it.¡±


    Arnold realized what had happened. ¡°It meant Russell Group still wanted to protect you.¡± He observed


    her expression closely.


    But Josie believed it was more than that. She would not have noticed if not for Russell Group¡¯s action


    She realized the reason Dexter insisted on hiding the matter was not to protect her from public


    criticism. Instead, it was to prevent her from finding out the actual perpetrator.


    The phone suddenly vibrated in her hand. A few messages popped up.


    It¡¯s prison visitation day tomorrow. Will you be going again?¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡®Can you bring some summer clothes to your father? The weather is getting warm.¡±


    Josie nced at the messages and suddenly recalled she was holding Arnold¡¯s phone. She was


    surprised and quickly handed the phone to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Arnold nced at the screen and did not seem to mind. ¡°When we met in the north of the city


    previously, I was visiting someone in prison.¡±


    Josie frowned and suddenly understood what Dexter had said before. She mentally calcted the days


    and realized it was about time for him to visit again.


    ¡°Was the person your father?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he was sentenced to imprisonment for twenty years.


    Twenty years was a lot. Josie sipped some tea to calm her nerves before asking. ¡°Was it a criminal


    case?¡±


    ¡°He was charged with financial fraud. Arnold¡¯s gaze darkened as he yed with his phone.


    Financial fraud cases wereplicated. Moreover, for a wealthy family like Arnold¡¯s, such a crime


    would permanently ruin their reputation.


    Josie did not ask other questions. She rested her chin on her hands. ¡°Arnold, is this why you¡¯re against


    Dexter?¡±


    Arnold was surprised and looked at her solemnly. ¡°Do you know the whole story?¡±

 Chapter 326

    Chapter 326


    Chapter 326 Marriage of Convenience.


    Josie understood something. ¡°I was right then¡± She stood up and went to the window. Her back profile


    seemed mncholic. ¡°I should have listened to you and not trusted Dexter. Unfortunately, it¡¯s to


    She could not see his face from her position. On the other hand, Arnold sipped some tea and give you


    some money. Can you help me pass it to Laura?


    *TH


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you give it to her yourself?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m granting you a favor, Ms. Warren Arnoldzed in his chair and smiled nonchntly.


    Josie leaned toward him. Her hair swayed before his nose. She said. ¡°Mr. Carter, please me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been doing that all this while.¡±


    Later, Josie returned to her hotel and was informed by the receptionist that someone upgraded her


    room


    to a suite.


    Josie stood before the floor-to-ceiling window that overlooked the city. She knew Arnold did


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    He always cared for her, but Josie was unsure whether she could trust him.


    She considered herself a selfish person. Ever since she witnessed Dexter¡¯s true colors, she decided


    not to.


    Once Arnold transferred the money to Josie¡¯s ount, she invited Laura to meet. Then, she brought up


    the matter straight away. ¡°You¡¯re probably short on money Arnold told me to transfer the money to you.


    It should help you deal with urgent needs temporanly?¡±


    Laura looked unwell. She shrank further into her chair, but her gaze was calm. ¡°It¡¯s a lot. I can¡¯t ept


    it


    ¡°Seems like you still have some pride. However, as someone who experienced something simr, your


    future will be even more difficult.¡±


    Laura suddenly looked into her eyes. ¡°Josie. Dex also transferred money to mest night.¡±


    Josie did not expect to hear his name suddenly and looked down instinctively.


    ¡°Do you know why they¡¯re helping me?¡±


    Josie shook her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s because theirmon enemy owned the project my father invested in. Thus, they had no choice


    but to sacrifice the insignificant Brandel family. That¡¯s why they are helping me. It¡¯s considered


    pittance.¡±


    Josie suddenly noticed an aura of exhaustion and despair on Laura. After all, Laura was a wealthy


    youngdy until recently. She had witnessed the ugly side of the business world overnight and knew


    there were no true friends in this world.


    Josie opened her mouth in shock upon knowing the truth. No wonder Arnold refused to meet her


    himself


    ¡°I don¡¯t me them¡± Laura smiled bitterly. ¡°Josie, I feel envious of you sometimes. At least you married


    apetent man.¡±


    Envious? Josie considered silently. Her life was not as perfect as Laura thought.


    Marriage of Convenience


    ¡°By the way, I want to tell you I¡¯m getting married next week. You shoulde to my wedding¡± Laura


    casually dropped the news before taking her bag and leaving


    Josie was stunned. Wedding? Next week? That¡¯s too soon!


    ¡°It¡¯s a marriage of convenience to the son of the Olsen family. He had always been interested in her.¡±


    Arnold bent over a canvas in his office in Carter Group. He was focused on painting it..


    Josie was astounded by the speed at which Arnold received the news. ¡°Which Olsen family?¡±


    ¡°Is there any other Olsen family in Wavery?¡±


    Josie fell silent and suddenly recalled that the Olsen family was one of the most prominent families in


    the business world. It was also Summer¡¯s family. Summer was the woman that caused trouble for


    Arnold and Dexter.


    ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡±


    Arnold stood straight and answered, ¡°The Olsen family has two children. The son is called Zach. He is


    Summer¡¯s brother.¡±


    Josie had heard about him but did not know much. She realized once again that marriage could be


    treated. so casually.


    ¡°What do you think? Want to attend the wedding with me next week?¡±


    Josie looked at him incredulously. ¡°You ruined her family. How do you dare to show your face?¡±


    Arnold appeared innocent. Im not the only one going. Dexter will go too. You can¡¯t just scold me and


    not him.¡±

 Chapter 327

    Chapter 327


    Chapter 327 The Wedding


    Josie remained silent.


    Dexter had not appeared before her for days. She tried hard not to think about him but kept failing


    ¡°What kind of rtionship will we be going as?¡± Josie forced a smile. She hoped Arnold stopped


    sending photos of their meeting to Dexter. She kept sensing he was not as bad as she thought.


    Arnold paused his paintbrush and considered earnestly. ¡°What about attending as my girlfriend?¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°You seem to enjoy doing immoral things¡±


    He smiled and tapped his paintbrush on her forehead, leaving a red dot. ¡°Having Dexter¡¯s wife as my


    girlfriend will be exciting.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was rendered speechless. This man is insane.


    Being wealthy meant one could easily arrange a wedding in less than a week. At the same time, the


    whole of Wavery knew Laura would marry Zach.


    On Monday, Josie and Arnold arrived at the hotel. She exited the car and found the ce vaguely


    familiar. She searched around for clues but was still confused.


    This ce was a private residence and likely one of the Olsen family¡¯s private residential properties. It


    seemed the site was only used for grand asions.


    Josie found the ce familiar. At the same time, she was sure that she had never been there before.


    ¡°What are you thinking?¡± Arnold stood beside her and whispered. He wore a dark blue suit.


    Josic came to her senses. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    She heard someone opening and closing a car door nearby. It was Dexter. He attended the wedding as


    Arnold expected.


    He wore a well-tailored suit that entuated his perfect figure. As he wrote his name on the register,


    one could see his gorgeous side profile. His face looked as if carved by a master artist.


    Once Josie looked away, Dexter stood straight and nced in her direction. His gaze was indifferent.


    He walked into the venue without uttering a word.


    Josie also had an emotionless expression.


    Neither seemed to care about the other.


    Zach stood at the door to wee the guests. He looked mild-mannered and amodating and did


    not seem like the heir of a wealthy family.


    ¡°Arnold, wow! You brought a girlfriend.¡° Zach extended his hand to Arnold.


    ¡°It¡¯s your wedding. Of course, I¡¯ll show up. What do you think? She¡¯s pretty, right?¡± Arnold held Josie¡¯s


    shoulder. ¡°She even knows Laura¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Zach was surprised. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you¡¯re Laura¡¯s friend. She¡¯s still in the dressing room. You can


    head there to see her.


    Josie nodded and nced at the surrounding from the corner of her eyes. The ce was grand, but


    she had not seen any older people there. It seemed only young people attended the wedding.


    Once they entered the venue, Josie asked softly, ¡°Has the person you¡¯re looking for returned?¡±


    Arnold did not answer her question directly. He held her shoulder more firmly and nced in a direction


    like a tiger waiting to pounce on its prey.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, my dear girlfriend? Are you jealous?¡±


    He¡¯s having too much fun acting the role. Josie red at him before excusing herself to go to the


    washroom


    She headed to the washroom and took quite some time to find her way. The male and female


    restrooms. were side by side. Josie soon noticed a familiar figure in the male restroom. Still, she was


    not too surprised to see him there.


    Josie approached stealthily and pushed away her thoughts as she stood opposite Dexter,


    He ced his hands in his pockets and appeared expressionless.


    There was no one around at this moment. Josie calmed down and looked at him closely.


    He seemed more tired than usual. At this moment, he looked like an entrepreneur who held the


    livelihood of many people in his hand.


    Meanwhile, Josie was alone and had no one apanying her. That made her feel intimidated and


    reluctant to talk to Dexter.


    She tried to walk past him, only for him to grab her wrist.

 Chapter 328

    Chapter 328


    Chapter 328 Challenging the Limit


    Dexter refused to move and grabbed her hand.


    Josic looked at their hands and said sternly, ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re breaching my personal space¡±


    Dexter pretended not to hear her. He suddenly turned around and grabbed her arms, dragging her into


    thedies¡¯ room. Then, he kicked open a cubical door and pushed her, causing her to fall onto the toilet


    bowl. He kept moving threateningly close His actions were rough but did not injure her.


    ¡°Josie, are you testing the limits of my patience?¡± They were so close that the tips of their noses almost


    touched. Dexter noticed the brief panic in Josie¡¯s eyes, while Josie saw the uncontroble fury in his


    eyes


    Their scents filled each other¡¯s nostrils, exciting their senses.


    Josie soon smiled, but her eyes continued to flicker with unhappiness. ¡°Mr. Russell, I don¡¯t understand


    what you mean. Do you mean you received a divorce agreement?¡±


    Dexter stated at her, fighting the strong urge to strangle her. At the same time, he vehemently despised


    himself. He even considered staying like this and letting her vent her anger at him, hoping it would


    reduce her hatred of him.


    ¡°Did youe here with Arnold to anger me?¡±


    Dexter suddenly grabbed Josie¡¯s neck. Josie tried to break free. Her face was deathly pale, but her lips


    were as merciless as ever. ¡°Why? Did I humiliate you? Is that why you¡¯re angry?¡±


    Strangely, Dexter admitted to her words. He sneered and replied, ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you want? You


    deliberately approach Arnold to make me angry, right?¡±


    ¡°How is it? Is my strength unbearable?¡±


    Josie did not wear pants this time, leaving her slender legs bare beneath the skirt. She suddenly raised


    her leg and rubbed it against his thigh. I¡¯ll show you what¡¯s unbearable.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression instantly froze. He loosened his grip.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    While he was dazed, Josie freed her hands and wrapped them around his neck. She brought her red


    lips to his ear and dabbed them lightly to his Canali shirt.


    Her arms felt soft and warm around his neck. Although she did not exert strength on him, Dexter felt an


    unexinable heaviness.


    She whispered into his car. ¡°You said I was stupid to dream of bing Mrs. Carter. Why don¡¯t and


    watch me make it into a reality.¡±


    you


    wait


    Her words were pure and unadulterated mockery, piercing into his heart.


    Dexter parted his lips. Countless emotions rolled like waves in his eyes.


    Josie


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    They looked into each other¡¯s eyes. On one side were turbulent emotions, while the other seemed calm


    and indifferent.


    Challenging the Limit


    Life and death seemed to be hinged at that instant.


    Laura had a simple wedding. She wore a white wedding gown and light makeup Nothing was


    ostentatious, yet no one could steal her limelight as the bride.


    Her makeup was done by the time Josie entered the dressing room. She was surrounded by many


    people and requested them to leave when she saw Josic, Josie approached her and walked around


    her, assessing her appearance. ¡°Not bail¡±


    ¡°Erm¡­¡± Laura tapped a spot on Josie¡¯s lips. ¡°You missed putting on the lipstick on this part.¡±


    Josie felt guilty at being caught and entered the inner room nervously. ¡°Really?¡±


    Laura observed her calmly.


    Suddenly, someone knocked on the door. Laura nced at it and was stunned briefly before asking,


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    It was a woman dressed in a white trench coat and a hat. Her long hair hung before her chest, and her


    makeup was light and natural. The woman said, ¡°It¡¯s been so long since we met.¡±

 Chapter 329

    Chapter 329


    Chapter 329 Being the Mistress


    Laura suddenly recalled who she was and looked at her.


    Meanwhile, Josie heard noises and was about to leave the inner room. However, she noticed Laura¡¯s


    hand gestures to her and kept silent.


    Laura watched the person take out a red ring box froin her pocket. She approached Laura and opened


    it ¡°I woke up this morning and found it on the bedside table. I imagine you will need it today, so I did not


    dy and brought it here. Would you like to check it?¡±


    The woman was clever with her words and quickly outlined a narrative that stirred people¡¯s curiosity.


    She obviously had no n to exin but added suggestively, ¡°Don¡¯t tell Zach about me being here. He


    would be angry if he knew.¡±


    The ring box contained a men¡¯s ring. Laura bought it on her own. Although it was not expensive, Zach


    cherished the ring when she gave it to him.


    Laura stood still. Josie looked at her and thought she would be furious. Unexpectedly, she epted the


    ring from the woman and thanked her politely. ¡°Thank you foring over. You could have called me,


    and I would have gone to you to collect it.¡±


    -Josie was astounded by Laura¡¯s calmness. Her past self would have torn the woman to shreds by


    now.


    ¡°You should know that he can¡¯t stand loneliness. Do you think he will see me again after you marry


    him? Honestly, I don¡¯t mind being his mistress.¡± The woman smiled smugly.


    Josie was stunned by what she heard. Why are all the mistresses so shameless these days?


    However, Laura remained unmoved. ¡°Sure, I suppose you wille to show off again.¡±


    The woman left.


    Josie came out of the inner room nervously, but Laura still showed no hint of sadness. ¡°About just


    now¡­.


    Zach came in before Josie could speak further. She immediately fell silent.


    He said, ¡°Laura, ihe wedding is about to begin. It might get tiringter.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Laura gave


    him the ring. ¡°You have been searching for this for days. Someone brought it here just now. Don¡¯t you


    think you should exin?¡±


    Josie did not expect Laura to be so direct about the matter.


    Zach was stunned. He looked down and epted the ring before wearing it on his ring finger. Im sorry.


    She called me over that day. I was careless and left it there. It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Laura smiled.


    After Zach left, Josie held Laura¡¯s arm and asked, ¡°Why weren¡¯t you angry?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of being angry?¡± Laura replied. ¡°I¡¯m not in the position where I can afford to be angry


    with him.¡±


    Zach and Laura¡¯s parents did not show up for their wedding.


    Being the Mistress


    Laura walked down the aisle alone and stood beside Zach. It was supposed to be a moving scene, but


    Josie thought it looked tragic. She looked at the honest-looking man strangely and sensed he was not


    as nice as he portrayed himself.


    ¡°Why does it feel like she had gone out of the frying pan and into the fire?¡± Josie muttered softly.


    Arnold was peeling an orange beside her. ¡°It would be nice if you had thought like this before marrying


    Dexter.


    Josie did not hold back from pping his arm in anger. ¡°Shut up if you have nothing nice to say.¡±


    However, Arnold smiled lovingly and stuffed a slice of orange in her mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. At least Zach


    will help her resolve her crisis.¡±


    Meanwhile, a man seated adjacent to them watched the scene unfold. His secretary stood beside him


    and said nervously, ¡°Mr. Russell, should I


    ¡°Let her be, Dexter ordered sternly and stared at them. His gaze darkened as he sipped wine.

 Chapter 330

    Chapter 330


    Chapter 330 Uncontrolled Rage


    The sky gradually darkened. Zach thoughtfully requested the guest stay the night and arranged their


    amodation


    After a busy day, Josie trudged exhaustedly to her room, She looked up and was stunned.


    Unexpectedly. Dexter moved much faster and grabbed her shoulder. He kicked open the door and


    embraced her soft figure to himself.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Her breath tasted the same. He hugged her and felt he had found the missing piece of the emptiness in


    his heart.


    Dexter kept his arms wrapped tightly around her. It was so tight that Josie could barely voice the word


    ¡°scram¡±


    Josie realized it was Dexter and stopped struggling. She whispered angrily, ¡°Dexter, have some self-


    restraint. I will make you pay if you dare to do anything to me!¡±


    Dexter did not let go but tilted her chin. ¡°What makes you so confident that I want to do something


    you?¡±


    Josie raised her voice. ¡°Let me go right now!¡±


    Dexter recalled scenes of her with Arnold and suddenly lost some of his confidence.


    to


    He restrained her, fearing she would escape. Then, he whispered through clenched teeth. ¡°Looking at


    how afraid you are, it feels like a waste if I don¡¯t do something.¡±


    His words sent a chill down her spine.


    Dexter gulped. He had not seen her body for a long time. His eyes zed with desire as blood flowed


    to his loin.


    He leaned down to kiss her. Josie refused to cooperate and struggled with all her might. ¡°Dexter! I¡¯ll sue


    you for assault!¡±


    ¡°Are you confident you can win thewsuit?¡±


    Dexter undid his belt, sending a clear noise into the silent night. His whole body was shrouded with an


    intimidating masculine aura as he pushed her onto the bed, making her ashamed.


    Josie struggled and screamed until her voice broke, but Dexter did not care.


    He kissed her forcefully and left trails of hickeys in his wake.


    However, he did not expect Josie to cry. Drops of tears fell from her eyes like a broken string of pearls.


    Dexter stiffened.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    At the same time, Arnold¡¯s voice sounded outside the door. He said jokingly. ¡°Good evening, it¡¯s room


    service.¡±


    Josiey in bed with her long hair syed all around her head. She red at Dexter with tears in her


    eyes


    before suddenly raising her voice. ¡°Help..


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned fierce. He immediately covered her mouth and muffled her voice.


    Josie refused to give up and bit him. However, she could only bite a small part of his skin. His hand


    over her mouth made every bite difficult.


    Likewise, Dexter refused to give in, and they continued to struggle against each other.


    Arnold called out again, but no one answered.


    A few of Dexter¡¯s shirt buttons hade undone, revealing his smooth skin. He did not remove his


    pants but left them hanging from his waist. Moreover, he was panting slightly and seemed unusually


    alluring.


    Arnold sensed something was off and paused briefly. In the end, he decided to leave to protect her


    dignity.


    Dexter finally stood up and released her. He went to the bathroom.


    Josie closed her eyes and could not shake off the oppressing feeling. She rolled sideways until she fell


    off the bed. Then, she breathed slowly, trying to calm down. It felt like she had narrowly escaped death.


    The following morning, Josie woke up to find Dexter had left. She packed her things and got ready to


    leave the hotel.


    After checking out of her room, the receptionist looked at her and checked the registry. ¡°Is your


    surname Warren?¡±


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m sorry, I just thought you looked familiar. The receptionist smiled. She wore a badge


    that stated ¡®Olsen Group.

 Chapter 331

    Chapter 331


    Chapter 331 Arnold Was in a Car ident


    There were few cars on the road, Josie only found out about the heavy rain after she left the hotel.


    The driver drove cautiously and reminded her, ¡°Miss, it¡¯s not the time to rush. The roads are slippery


    due to rain.


    Later, she arrived at her residence and exited the car to find someoneing to her from the crowd.


    The man walked hurriedly and appeared anxious. He stopped before Josie and said solemnly. ¡°You


    must be Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie recalled seeing him before. ¡°Are you Mr. Carter¡¯s secretary?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m Andy Johnson¡± Andy looked anxious. ¡°Can you please follow me? It¡¯s urgent.¡±


    His tone was firm.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Josie sensed something was wrong.


    Andy moved closer and whispered, ¡°I received news this morning that Mr. Carter was in a car ident.


    He is undergoing emergency treatment in the hospital,¡±


    His voice was unstable, as if he had suffered a severe shock. ¡°You attended the wedding with him, so


    thought I should bring you to the hospital to see him.¡±


    Josie looked at Andy in disbelief. She mumbled, ¡°Car ident?¡±


    It was indeed an ident.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Last night, Arnold recklessly drove at one hundred and eighty miles per hour despite the torrential rain.


    He lost control of his car and could not brake on time, causing it to fall into a river.


    Luckily for him, the sky had already brightened. A jogger saw the scene and bravely rushed to save


    him. He grabbed a rock and smashed the car window.


    Arnold was rescued from the car, covered in blood. He passed out on the scene.


    Most people did not like going to the hospital. It was a ce where deaths and partings urred daily.


    One could not escape witnessing the helplessness and fears of human lives in this ce.


    Josie wore a brown trench coat before leaving the house. Then, she put on the cap and mask given by


    Andy.


    She followed Andy through the crowd and traversed the deathly silent corridors. Then, he whispered, ¡°I


    contacted his private doctors when I found out about the ident. They are still overseas and can only


    remotely instruct the doctors in this hospital on Mr. Carter¡¯s treatment.¡±


    Josie walked quickly to keep up with him. Her face was expressionless as she listened to him.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, please go in to see him. I¡¯ve worked for him for a long time. He doesn¡¯t have many friends


    and not to mention any female friends. There are few people he considers important, and you are one


    of them. It doesn¡¯t matter, even if your presence doesn¡¯t improve his condition. You should spend some


    time with him. I¡¯m sure he will beforted by your presence.¡±


    Am I important to him?


    |||


    1/2


    Chapter 331 Arnold Was in a Car ident


    Josie was confused. Tim not the woman he loves. Why doesn¡¯t he search for Summer? Is she still


    overseas?


    Andy looked at her and gritted his teeth, trying to persuade her. ¡°It might be thest chance to see him.¡±


    Thest chance. The thought prompted Josie to quicken her steps and continue ahead. Her heart


    sank.


    Why did he leave at midnight? Could he have left because he heard Dexter was in my room? It can¡¯t be


    They arrived before a surgery room. The door was still firmly shut, and the sign above the door was


    ringly red, indicating that the surgery was ongoing


    A question popped into her mind when she saw this scene. Could Arnold have died?


    She felt a sudden chill all over her body and could not stop trembling.


    ¡°Have you informed his family?¡± Josie asked slowly. Her throat tightened, and it was difficult to speak.


    ¡°Not yet. I fear they can¡¯t withstand the news.¡±


    Josie turned around and only noticed another person sitting outside the surgery room. It was a strong-


    looking young man waiting nervously. He was probably the man who saved Arnold.


    Josie looked down and noticed the dark red blood on the man¡¯s body. The sight was like a stab to her


    heart. Her hands shook, and she could not move for a long time.


    That¡¯s a lot of blood.

 Chapter 332

    Chapter 332


    Chapter 332 Blood Donation


    Andy didn¡¯t even dare to look after hearing the harrowing description of Arnold¡¯s injury just now.


    A nurse walked out of the operating room and asked anxiously, ¡°The patient has lost too much blood


    and is gradually losing consciousness. We¡¯re running out of time to get blood supply. Does anyone


    here have type B blood?¡±


    The man sitting beside Josie shook his head while Josie was shaken out of her daze. She looked at the


    nurse and asked, ¡°Is his situation this critical?¡±


    The nurse was a hot-tempered person and red up at once. ¡°What do you mean? Do you think I¡¯m


    pulling a joke with you about his situation?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart was pounding as she reached out her arm in a panic and mumbled, ¡°My blood type is B.¡±


    The nurse was startled briefly before grabbing Josie¡¯s hand and headed hurriedly to draw blood.


    The nurse brought Josie to a small ward and swiftly rolled up Josie¡¯s sleeve to apply a tourniquet.


    While the nurse was preparing, Josie stared nkly at her and asked, ¡°Will he die?¡±


    The nurse was still upset about Josie¡¯s previous question and answered grumpily. ¡°He stayed in an


    enclosed space for too long. He might die of suffocation if he was admitted to the hospitalter. He¡¯s


    also experiencing excessive blood loss as a result of being stabbed by a dagger in the car.¡±


    The nurse slowly inserted the needle after locating Josie¡¯s vein. ¡°Take deep breaths. It might sting


    slightly¡±


    Josie gritted her teeth and endured the pain.


    ¡°Who would ce a dagger in their own car? He¡¯s bringing this upon himself!¡±


    The stinging sensation remained as blood was drawn out of Josie¡¯s body. She nibbled her bottom lip


    and muttered. ¡°Yeah. He deserves it.¡±


    Josie¡¯s countenance gradually turned pale after three hundred milliliters of blood was drawn out. The


    nurse stopped and said, ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±


    Josie grabbed the nurse and shook her head. ¡°Please extract more. What if it¡¯s not enough?¡±


    The nurse drew another one hundred milliliters of blood and rejected Josie¡¯s request. She sent her out


    of the ward and said, ¡°Your life will be at risk if we continue drawing more blood. Please take some


    rest.¡±


    Then, the nurse rushed into the operating room.


    Andy returned with some milk and candy. He guided Josie to sit down and passed some food to her.


    ¡°Please have some, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Three hourster, Arnold was pushed out of the operating room.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie stood on her toes and observed Arnold, whoy motionlessly on the bed, through the window.


    The man was ashen-faced, unlike his usual spirited self.


    The doctor was talking to Andy at the side. ¡°We¡¯ll keep him under observation in the ICU for two days.


    He can be transferred to the normal ward after he regains consciousness.¡±


    ¡°Miss Warren,¡± Andy spoke up nervously.


    Tll stay here the next two days bun won¡¯t meddle with other affairs¡±


    Andy heaved a sigh of relief and hummed, ¡°Okay¡±


    Josie continued sitting outside the ICU. Her phone andptop soon ran out of battery Andy w


    centraised her and pared back and forth as he made multiple calls to handle Arnold¡¯s affairs


    He gave a huge sum of money to the kind man, but the man was upright and refused to ept it


    Nheless, Andy was principled, too, and insisted.


    He instantly blocked the news so no one could spread rumors about the incident


    The doctor checked in on Arnold twice the first night, but Arnold had not awakened.


    When the nurse


    her mask ever sine


    redress Arnold¡¯s wound, she became curious about Josie, who had not removed


    So, she sat down and asked Josic, ¡°Are you the patient¡¯s girlfriend


    Josie arch her brows and reckoned the nurse had never read entertainment ne

 Chapter 333

    Chapter 333


    Chapter 333 She Has Cared for You the Past Two Days


    ¡°You must be his family, then. The nurse continued.


    ¡°What makes you think so?¡±


    The nurse stretched her legs and gave a simple reason. ¡°You were so anxious yesterday, so I thought


    you were either his girlfriend or a family.¡±


    ¡°I guess you could say we¡¯re enemies. Tll be aggrieved if he just dies like this Josie answered half-


    jokingly


    The nurse stared at her for a while before chuckling mischievously. ¡°Is it a love-hate rtionship?¡±


    Josie turned away and did not answer.


    Before leaving, the nurse remarked, ¡°The hospital director personally performed the surgery, so I could


    tell he¡¯s a big shot. He¡¯s admitted to the ICU as a precaution, but his life is not at risk. I heard that the


    director and the department heads have had several meetings to discuss his cond


    The nurse said so to reassure Josie but didn¡¯t expect an indifferent response from her. ¡°He¡¯s not gonna


    die anyway,¡± Josi? said.


    As the president of the Carter Group, Arnold held the fate of many in his hands. If he died, it would -


    definitely cause a substantial uproar.


    Josie decided she should not make Dexter aware of this matter.


    When Arnold regained consciousness, his first instinct was to take a deep breath, but he felt a piercing


    pain in his body as soon as he exhaled.


    His mind was in a mess. He had had several dreams ¨C all of them were about Josic. He dreamed of the


    scene when the car ident happened. In the dream, he fell into the river and was stuck in the car. No


    one was there to save him. A bloody smell gushed into his nose as his blood flowed into the water.


    Arnold opened his eyes and turned to see the rain outside the window.


    In fact, he had awakened before this, but he wasn¡¯t conscious. So, he was transferred to a VIP ward.


    He was surprised when he saw Josie sleeping by his bedside. The woman looked weary and was in a


    deep sleep. Her long eyshes cast a shadow below her eyes.


    Arnold thought he was still in a dream, so he closed his eyes again but fell asleep unconsciously.


    Nheless, Josie did not appear again in his dream this time.


    When he woke again, the first person that came into sight was still Josie. She was awake and was


    sitting on the couch, reading a magazine.


    Only then did Arnold realize he wasn¡¯t dreaming, but he couldn¡¯t move.


    Hearing Arnold¡¯s groan, Josie lifted her head and met his gaze. She stood up and walked over to the


    be adjust the flow rate of the IV drip. ¡°What brings you here?¡± Arnold asked in a gentle tone.


    Josie examined him and sighed. ¡°Thanks to you.¡±


    ¡°Why did you go street racing?¡±


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She Has Cared for You the Past Two Days


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Arnold continued asking.


    Just then, Andy brought the doctor in, so Josie stopped answering Arnold. Arnold shot a fierce re at


    Andy as if he was rebuking him for entering the ward at an inappropriate time.


    The doctor, who was the hospital¡¯s director, carefully examined Arnold¡¯s condition while thetter wore


    a straight face and asionally nced toward the outside.


    The nurse who came with the doctor was disturbed to see Arnold¡¯s expression. After the doctor left,


    she told Arnold, ¡°Don¡¯t make her angry. She has cared for you the past two days and barely ate.¡±


    Arnold lifted his brows in surprise and looked at Andy, who was standing at the side. Andy touched his


    nose and nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 334

    Chapter 334


    Chapter 334 Ten Million


    Arnold had not expected Josie to stay by his side unconditionally for two days and asked the nurse to


    tell him theplete story before he could confirm it. Besides being surprised, he was also touched.


    After confirming that Arnold was fine, Josie returned to the hotel and charged her phone. Thereafter,


    she slept like a log for the rest of the day. The next morning when she woke up, her mind was foggy.


    She called for room service and ordered a in porridge with extra salt.


    Then, she went to the bathroom and soaked herself in the bathtub. Sinking into deep thoughts, she


    repeatedly questioned her intentions,


    Later, she returned to the hospital with a thermos filled with porridge. After the lift reached the floor


    where Arnold¡¯s ward was located, Josie walked out of the lift to see a crowd gathering outside his ward.


    Her heart jolted, thinking Arnold¡¯s incident had been exposed.


    When she walked closer, the nurse told her that those people were the family members of the man who


    saved Arnold.


    ¡°He¡¯s a kind man. He refused to ept the money and insisted on returning it. He even brought a


    group of people along to thank Arnold and reject his offer. The crowd appeared to be overbearing.


    Leaning against the bed, Arnold asked Andy, ¡°Is he the man who saved me?¡±


    Andy nodded in a quandary.


    Arnold was a reasonable person and would certainly express his gratitude to his lifesaver. Giving


    money was a form of expressing his gratitude. However, he was confused by the scene.


    ¡°How much did you give him?¡± Arnold asked.


    At the same time, the nurse asked Josie, ¡°Do you know how much they gave the man?¡±


    Andy gestured with his finger in a servile manner. Ten million.¡±


    ¡°Ten million.¡± Josie, too, answered honestly.


    Arnold had no objections, knowing his life was worth more than ten million. They deserve it. Even ten


    billion is not an issue.


    The nurse was so bbergasted that she almost slumped onto the ground. She finally understood why


    the benevolent man insisted on returning the money.


    The man so happened to save Arnold, but who would have expected such a windfall?


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Initially, the man received the bank card from Andy out of resignation. Little did he expect to see the


    huge sum of money when he checked the bnce at the ATM. Astonished, he decided to return the


    bank card after discussing it with his family.


    It was ten million for crying out loud, so the man thought Andy might have made a mistake.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t a mistake. The amount is for you. Thanks for saving me.¡± Arnold was grateful toward the


    man, but he sounded domineering. Ten million is not much and can only afford you a better house in


    the city center. Please ept it.¡±


    ¡°No, no. I can¡¯t take it. I didn¡¯t save you for any returns,¡±


    Just take it.¡± Josie walked into the ward. ¡°This fool has plenty of money. He¡¯ll be upset if you reject it¡±


    The man was surprised to see Josie while Arnold¡¯s gaze softened. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± He asked.


    Josie replied sulkily, ¡°Poison.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t mind her attitude at all. He took over the thermos and opened it. ¡°Did you make this


    porridge? You¡¯re a good cook¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s from the hotel. You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    There was a moment of silence in the ward. Only Josie dared to speak to Arnold in such an attitude,


    yet Arnold was not irritated.

 Chapter 335

    Chapter 335


    Chapter 335 Made Known


    ¡°Whatever As long as it¡¯s not poisonous Arnold replied amiably.


    Andy sensibly escorted the others out of the ward and closed the door, leaving Josie and Arnold in the


    warst


    Arnold¡¯s organs were injured, so he couldn¡¯t cat on his own. He turned to look at Josie and said, ¡°I have


    not caten. Can you feed me?¡±


    Josie gnashed her teeth in annoyance. I¡¯m not your servant. With that, she stood up and was about to


    press the help button.


    ¡°Hey, hey!¡± Arnold winced in pain and quickly stopped Josic. Fine, I¡¯ll eat myself¡± Then, he nced at


    her and said. ¡°You¡¯ve stayed by my side for two days, yet you¡¯re acting like a stranger now that I woke


    up. Are


    you shiv?¡±


    Josie smirked. ¡°I stayed here the past two days because your secretary wouldn¡¯t let me leave. I didn¡¯t


    want to be implicated just in case you died. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t havee.


    Arnold was not annoyed by Josie¡¯s insouciant behavior, Instead, he asked with a smile, ¡°Did he


    threaten you?¡±


    ¡°Of course


    ¡°How?¡±


    Caught off guard by the question, Josie was at a loss for words. ¡°I-He just coerced me into staying¡±


    ¡°I see. Arnold feigned an innocent look. ¡°Well, if you insisted on leaving, he could do nothing either. So,


    it was still your own choice,¡±


    Recalling the night at the Olsen Hotel, Josie didn¡¯t know how to exin it she wasn¡¯t exactly guilty. She


    shrugged and said. ¡°If you died, the police might involve me in the investigation. I don¡¯t want to get into


    trouble.¡±


    Before Arnold could say something, Josie asked, ¡°You should be a skillful driver. Why did you drive


    into. the river? Did you see something?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s smile faded, but his tone remained nonchnt. ¡°No big deal. I¡¯m still alive, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re saying it so casually. Sure, you survived, but do you know you nearly died? Your abdomen was


    stabbed with a dagger, which caused excessive bleeding! Josie was angry at Arnold¡¯s insouciant


    attitude as if he didn¡¯t care about his life.


    ¡®I see¡­ I heard someone donated blood for me. I wonder who that person was. Arnold remained


    frivolous.


    Josie red at him, knowing he was intentionally teasing her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me it was you.¡± Arnold beamed from ear to ear.


    ¡°Arnold Carter!¡± Josie was so exasperated that she grabbed a pillow from the couch and was about to it


    at Arnold.


    Just then, Andy walked in and saw the scene. He gasped and quickly stopped Josie. ¡°Ms. Warren,


    please


    |||


    1/2


    Chapter 335 Made Known


    calm down!¡±


    Josie was so upset that she sat on the couch in silence.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze was fixed on her as he asked Andy, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°The doctor said your condition is stable now, and you will recover after enough rest. Some became


    aware of this incident and are heading to the hospital now!


    ¡°Send them away.¡± Arnold replied resolutely.


    Andy was speechless. He nced at Josie in a dilemma and asked, ¡°Should I turn all of them away?¡±


    Arnold regained his senses when he heard the profound question. ¡°You can make the necessary


    arrangements.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    After Andy left, Josie stared at Arnold while holding the pillow. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you intended this ident


    to happen.¡±


    Arnold arched his brows in a charming manner. ¡°Why do you think so?¡±


    ¡°I just thought it shouldn¡¯t have urred.¡±


    ¡°If it was my intention, I didn¡¯t have to stab myself with a dagger.¡±

 Chapter 336

    Chapter 336


    Chapter 336 Summer Is Back


    However, little did Josie expect Dexter to appear.


    Just as she was about to leave, a group of people came out of the left, led by Dexter.


    Dexter wore a gray blouse today, with every button perfectly fastened. The gold-rimmed sses he


    wore gave him a serious and charismatic look, which was a stark contrast to his madness the other


    night.


    Behind him was a slender woman in a white dress. She wore a mask, so Josie couldn¡¯t recognize her.


    Without wasting more time, Josie swiftly returned to the ward and red at Arnold before entering the


    restroom in the ward. Then, she closed the door and took a deep breath.


    Soon, the sound of footsteps could be heard. Josie¡¯s heart pounded faster as Dexter approached.


    ¡°Hey, Dexter. You didn¡¯t have toe.¡± Arnold gasped and seemed to be surprised.


    Hypocrite. Josie pouted.


    ¡°Your subordinates should¡¯ve informed me immediately about your ident. The Russell Group has


    top- notch medical resources. Who can bear the responsibility if any mishap happens to you?¡± Dexter


    frowned as he observed Arnold¡¯s injury and rebuked him. ¡°It¡¯s your subordinates¡¯ negligence. They


    should serve the -consequences.¡±


    Arnold waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just a minor injury. I¡¯m still in one piece now. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Then, Arnold averted his gaze to the woman behind Dexter. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to remove your mask?¡±


    The woman took off the mask, revealing her beautiful, innocent countenance. Her eyes were filled with


    concern. ¡°How did you end up in a car ident? Do you know how worried I was?¡± Her voice was


    crispy and distinctive.


    The woman instinctively reproached Arnold. Arnold took the bowl of porridge and stared at her


    determinedly. ¡°Come and feed me.¡±


    The woman furrowed her brows and subconsciously nced at Dexter while remaining motionless.


    ¡°I¡¯ve flown to London countless times for you the past few years. Are you going to disobey me now that


    you have stronger support?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± The woman looked at the stone-faced Dexter. ¡°Mr. Russell¡±


    ¡°Get over here, Summer Olsen!¡± Arnold bellowed.


    Josie and Summer shivered at the same time. So, it¡¯s Summer? When did shee back?


    Finally, Summer walked up to Arnold cautiously and sat beside his bed. She took the bowl of porridge


    and -fed Arnold. Her slender, delicate hands were extremely beautiful, attributed to her luxurious life


    over the


    years.


    Arnold stared fixedly at Dexter as if he was provoking him. However, Dexter wasn¡¯t bothered and paced


    leisurely in the ward with his hands in his pockets. His gaze stopped at the couch briefly before he


    walked to the window and lit a cigarette. ¡°Arnold, you need a caretaker before you recover.¡±


    ¡°I already have one.¡±


    Summer Is BackProperty of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Dexter chuckled softly. ¡°I should have guessed so. You¡¯re always a step ahead.¡± He took a drag of the


    cigarette and exhaled smoke. ¡°What a coincidence that you got injured at this time. The Olsen family


    was regretful and wanted to make it up for you.


    Summer added softly. ¡°Yes. Zach was rebuked¡±


    ¡°I drove out of the Olsen Hotel, but besides that, what does the ident have to do with his wedding!


    Don¡¯t make a fuss over nothing.¡±


    ¡°My family thinks Zach shouldn¡¯t have gotten married.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you didn¡¯t attend the wedding? I remember you and Laura are close friends. Arnold asked


    gently.


    Summer inhaled deeply and avoided his gaze. ¡°Mr. Russell said I shouldn¡¯t appear in public for now.¡±

 Chapter 337

    Chapter 337


    Chapter 337 An Alibi


    Arnold looked at Dexter, who was standing by the window. The rays of sunlight shone on him, but no


    one knew what was on his mind.


    ¡°You¡¯re obedient to Dexter.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t concentrate on the conversation anymore. All she knew was Summer had returned.


    Suddenly, she had many realizations. For example, the woman Xandre met was Summer. Dexter


    returned earlier, for Summer¡¯s sake. Josie could even guess the owner of the white bra now


    So, that¡¯s what happened. Josie felt her heart squeezed upon realizing the truth. She covered her


    mouth so no one could hear her crying.


    Meanwhile, Dexter ced his hand on the handle of the restroom after putting out his cigarette.


    ¡°Arnold, hope you don¡¯t mind me using the restroom.¡±


    Stunned, Josie forcefully pushed against the door. If Dexter discovered she was here, she would be


    finished.


    Before Arnold could respond, Dexter felt the resistance behind the door. ¡°Is there someone inside?¡± He


    asked with a frown.


    Josie closed her eyes in despair.


    Just then, Andy walked into the ward. Perceiving Arnold¡¯s look, he immediately said, ¡°Mr. Russell, the


    door is spoiled. I just asked someone toe and fix it. Sorry about that.¡± Then, he passed a packet of


    wet tissue to Dexter. ¡°Please use this if you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Dexter paused briefly before retracting his gaze. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    After wiping his fingers with the wet tissue, he said, ¡°A shipment was intercepted at the port a few days


    ago. The officers are investigating it. I received news that the shipment is rted to the Carter Group,


    so I helped to cover it, but the follow-up procedures might be troublesome.¡±


    Arnold replied, I¡¯ve heard of it. Don¡¯t worry. Thanks for the favor. I¡¯m still investigating whose mistake it


    is.¡±


    Dexter wore a faint smile. ¡°You should investigate it thoroughly. If it wasn¡¯t that you ran into a car


    ident that day, I would think it¡¯s your decision.¡±


    ¡°I should be grateful for the car ident, which provided me with an alibi.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lucky as usual, Arnold. However, luck alone is insufficient to run a business. Dextermented


    profoundly. Then, he turned to the side and muttered, ¡°Good luck is rare.¡± One couldn¡¯t tell who Dexter


    was speaking to.


    After Arnold finished the porridge, Summer kept the thermos away and said gently. ¡°I¡¯ll ask the chef at


    my ce to prepare meals for you. Get well soon.¡±


    However, Arnold¡¯s response caught Summer off guard. ¡°Sum, aren¡¯t you worried that Dexter would be


    jealous of your concern toward me?¡±


    Dexter was standing with his back facing them, so he didn¡¯t notice Summer¡¯s blushing cheeks. ¡°What


    nonsense you are talking about¡­¡± She mumbled.


    After Dexter and hispanions left, silence was restored in the ward. A bodyguard came and


    reported to Arnold, ¡°We¡¯ve escorted them to the car park.¡±


    Arnold lifted his head and said, ¡°Are you gonna continue staying inside?¡±


    Josie checked herself in the mirror before walking out silently with a sullen look.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Arnold¡¯s heart sank. He sat up and called out to Josie.


    ¡°I shall leave first,¡± Josie said calmly. While walking toward the door, she realized her handbag was left


    on the couch. Did Dexter notice it? Oh well. I don¡¯t think he¡¯ll know it¡¯s mine


    Id


    ¡°Wait a minute. Arnold still wanted to say something.


    Josie grabbed her handbag and said. ¡°It¡¯ll be too much if you want to mock me after the embarrassing


    scene.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that. I¡­¡± Josie left the ward in disappointment before Arnold could finish her sentence.


    Nothing could be more heartbreaking than bumping into one¡¯s husband apanied by the woman


    whom he had an ambiguous rtionship with.

 Chapter 338

    Chapter 338


    Chapter 338 Abused


    Josie wouldn¡¯t be this distressed if it was Ivy because she knew Dexter had no feelings toward Ivy.


    However, things were different with Summer-Josie didn¡¯t know about their past and whether they had


    feelings for each other.


    Such anxiety was frustrating. Josie was confused, thinking she shouldn¡¯t be bothered by this matter


    Josie was unnerved as she walked out of the hospital. It was hard to hail a cab during rush hour, and


    Josie was number 44 in the queue on the ride-hailing tform.


    She leaned against themppost, with her mind running wild.


    At that moment, Dexter¡¯s car was driven out of the car park. The observant driver immediately spotted


    Josie but didn¡¯t dare to inform Dexter in the presence of Summer.


    Summer gazed at Dexter cautiously and said in a fawning manner. ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯ve sent the research


    report for Russell Group to you via email.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Dexter hummed indifferently. The car was stuck in the traffic and couldn¡¯t move. Dexter added,


    ¡°Thanks for the hard work.¡±


    ¡°Not at all.¡± Summer smiled.


    Later, when the traffic became smoother, Dexter instructed the driver to pull over. ¡°Send Ms. Olsen


    home. I have some matters to attend to.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡±


    Summer could clearly sense Dexter¡¯s sudden change in mood, although he didn¡¯t show it. As such, she


    had no choice but to m up.


    On the other hand, Josie finally got a ride. Just as she was about to get into the car, she spotted two


    familiar figures from a distance-Dexter hugged the woman in the car.


    Then, he walked to an automotive shop nearby and drove out a Bentley after five minutes.


    Josie cursed inwardly and became irritated. The driver grew impatient and honked at Josie as she


    remained motionless. Jolted back to her senses, Josie quickly got into the car and closed the door


    before Dexter noticed her.


    ¡°Sir, please hurry.¡± Josie gasped as if she was fleeing


    Her residence was in the opposite direction as Mason Garden. The street was empty at night, so the


    driver drove at high speed. But s, the Bentley soon caught up with them. Josie lowered the car


    window and was shocked to see Dexter in the car.


    Indeed, he has guessed it.


    Exasperated, Josie took out her wallet and ced a stack of notes before the driver. The driver was


    motivated when he saw the money and mmed the elerator as hard as he could.


    However, the Bently chased relentlessly behind them. The situation made the driver panic. ¡°Miss, did


    you get into some trouble


    The wind blowing in through the window tousled Josie¡¯s hair. She stared nervously at the Bentley.


    thinking Dexter must have lost his mind.


    Suddenly, the cab took a sharp turn. Josie¡¯s forehead hit on the driver¡¯s seat, giving her a dizzy spell.


    She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Nothing. I¡¯m escaping because I was abused.¡±


    The driver was rendered speechless.


    Dexter continued pursuing them. Josie had seen how crazy Dexter could be and knew he could die.


    anytime, given his dangerous driving.


    Fortunately, Josie arrived at her hotel not longter. She almost threw up when the driver mmed on


    the brake abruptly.


    Dexter¡¯s car stopped behind them. He rolled down the window with a cold and sarcastic smirk, mocking


    Josie for attempting to flee from him.


    The moment Josie got out of the car, the cab driver sped away frantically.


    Dexter got out of the Bentley and mmed the door closed heavily. He walked toward Josie,


    emanating a deadly aura..


    Josie instinctively took a few steps back and was a bundle of nerves as she stuttered, ¡°D-Dexter


    Russell, you must be out of your mind to drive so recklessly!¡±


    Dexter seized her slender wrist, causing her to wince in pain and almost slump onto the ground. ¡°What


    do you want?!¡±

 Chapter 339

    Chapter 339


    Chapter 339 An Unexpected Visit


    Dexter drew close to Josie and growled menacingly, ¡°Why are you running away? Huh?¡±


    Josie struggled to break away from him and retorted, ¡°Why are youing after me?¡±


    Dexter tightened his grip on her wrist. ¡°The cat that I raised is trying to escape. How can I not go after


    her?¡±


    Josie nced at the surroundings. Their location was remote, so no one could help her, even if she


    yelled for help.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need the cat anyway. You have no right to say that.¡±


    ¡°What if she tries to bite back at me?¡±


    Josie red deadly at Dexter and bellowed with red-rimmed eyes. ¡°What if you¡¯re the one who¡¯s


    pushing her to the edge?¡± Dexter released her slightly after seeing her expression.


    Feeling nauseated, Josie couldn¡¯t hold back any longer and puked on Dexter.


    She had always been thrifty, so she stayed in a budget hotel. Even though Arnold upgraded her room,


    sheter changed back to a standard room to get a refund.


    The room she lived in was cramped. There was a small couch near the door. On the right was a single


    bed with a full-length mirror in front of it. The bathroom was narrow too.


    If Dexter hadn¡¯t seen it for himself, he wouldn¡¯t have imagined such a hotel existed in Wavery, a


    bustling city with two ports. Condominiums could be priced up to tens of millions in this city; there were


    ships adorned with gold foil and countless private jets in the airport. Wavery was a vibrant, developed


    metropolis. In contrast, this room was filthy, messy, and wretched.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter furrowed his brows, rarely showing such an expression.


    Josie didn¡¯t dare to look at him. She awkwardly nudged him into the bathroom. ¡°Clean yourself up.¡±


    She believed Dexter would have left resolutely if she hadn¡¯t insisted on getting him to clean himself up


    at her ce.


    Josie¡¯s clothes were scattered around the floor. She quickly cleaned the space and poured a bottle of


    mineral water into the kettle.


    Dexter took off his jacket and put it aside. As soon as he opened the tap, he heard a loud bang outside.


    Through the narrow door gap, he saw Josie squatting on the floor, cleaning the mess.


    An indescribable emotion arose in him. He felt triumphant to see Josie leading a miserable life after


    leaving him. Ironically, she still refused to yield and turn back to him. How prideful this woman is. But


    s, such pride is as fragile as straw.


    While Dexter was in the bathroom, Josie went downstairs to buy some single-use toiletries and motion


    sickness pills. When she crossed the road, she saw Dexter¡¯s Bentley by the roadside, looking modestly


    luxurious under the streetlight.


    She spaced out momentarily. He bought a car within five minutes. Indeed, our lives are worlds apart.


    Dexter just came out of the bathroom when Josie returned. The six-foot-tall man appeared even more


    prominent in the cramped space. Holding Josie¡¯s towel, he lookedical.


    Josie felt her face heat up being stared upon by Dexter. She gripped the stic bag tightly and said


    defiantly. ¡°Don¡¯t have to mock me or look down on me. I¡¯ve found a ce to stay for the long term.¡±


    Dexter continued staring at him without saying a word. Josie felt abased and regretted bringing him to


    her


    room.


    She grabbed the towel from him and babbled away, ¡°Are you okay? You better leave quickly once


    you¡¯re done cleaning up. I can¡¯t afford to bear the consequences if any mishaps happen to you.¡±


    Her eyes were still red-rimmed as she had yet to fully recover from the shock.


    Dexter closed the door and seized her chin. ¡°Why did you run away just now?¡± He asked.


    Recalling the scenes in the hospital, Josie pushed him away ufortably, disgusted by the thought of


    sharing things with another person.

 Chapter 340

    Chapter 340


    Chapter 340 It¡¯s His Freedom


    Josie asked, despite knowing the truth. ¡°Why were you at the hospital?¡±


    Dexter did not release his grip.


    Irritated, she had no choice but to continue. ¡°Was I in the way of your date with your fling and bugging


    you?¡±


    Dexter ignored her words and exposed her. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be afraid of if you didn¡¯t do anything


    wrong. Where were you the past few days?¡±


    ¡°The hotel, thepany, the hospital, the mundane nine-to-five.¡± She refused to tell the truth.


    He grabbed and forced her to face him. He looked at her furiously. ¡°You know what happens if you lie to


    me, Josie.¡±


    The woman could only hold his stare and spat word by word, ¡°Aren¡¯t you already aware? I was taking


    care of Arnold. Do you really need me to spell it out?¡±


    She felt his grip on her tighten as if he wanted to choke the man. ¡°Who told you to do it?!¡±


    ¡°Who gives you the right to question my actions? I didn¡¯t even question you anything about you and


    her.¡± Josie threw caution to the wind as though she was unafraid of the repercussions. ¡°I told you


    before, I¡¯ll show you I can be Mrs. Carter.¡±


    He stared at her momentarily before releasing her with a scornfulugh. ¡°Didn¡¯t you see it today at the


    hospital? Summer is the one Arnold likes.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? I didn¡¯t notice it. She deliberately changed the attention to the topic. ¡°And here I was,


    thinking. that she likes you. She keeps throwing herself at you. You don¡¯t need to be such a


    gentleman.¡±


    His expression became listless. ¡°Why? Are you hoping that I will get together with her?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your freedom, whoever you choose to be with. I have no say in it.¡±


    As she turned away, the words left her mouth without her thinking.


    Isn¡¯t it always this way? He hadn¡¯t treated me with respect before.


    She spoke up after a moment of silence. I¡¯m well aware of my position. We both have things we need.


    You don¡¯t need to be considerate of me. I know my ce.¡±


    She was not the best at maintaining rtionships, whether personal or business.


    Their rtionship had always been him giving her orders and her obeying. She did not have the choice


    to


    say no.


    Josie poured a ss of warm water to sip. She said after finishing it. ¡°But don¡¯t forget to notify me


    when. she seeds. I know the rules. You don¡¯t need to worry, Mr. Russell¡±


    There was no response. She turned around, confused.


    Without her noticing. Dexter was seated in the chair with his eyes closed.


    He must have been exhausted. With a hand propping his head, he seemed ufortable in the small


    seat. The sharp look he usually had was nowhere to be seen.


    Josie bent down. Without thinking, she brushed her pale finger on his face, from the eyebrows to the


    mouth and further south.


    Dexter was attractive. It was not surprising that women would pursue him relentlessly. But she


    wondered. what they would think if they knew about the man¡¯s difficult temperament.


    His overbearing nature was to the extreme. There was more pain than joy when she was with him.


    Josie took a deep breath as her finger stopped at the base of his neck. She ced her palm against it


    and tightened her grip ever so slightly.


    Dexter Russell. A well-known man in Wavery. People respected him, feared him, hated him. One word.


    from him could destroy a person¡¯s future.


    Such a man was sleeping before her, defenseless.


    For a moment, her mind was nk. She did not care about the consequences.


    ¡®BANG! A loud noise came from the next room as someone broke something.


    Josie jolted at the sound.


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    Dexter¡¯srge eyes were staring straight at her when she turned back.

 Chapter 341

    Chapter 341


    Chapter 341 Not That Simple


    Josie¡¯s hand froze as she dared not move. She pulled her hand back awkwardly. ¡°That¡­ I wasn¡¯t doing


    anything. There was something on your neck. I was cleaning it¡­¡±


    It was evidently a lie.


    Dexter bore his eyes into her.


    She felt on edge and instinctively moved back, away from him. He snatched her arm and flipped it


    palm-


    side up.


    ¡°It looks like you¡¯re so bored that you not only went to nurse him but even donated your blood,¡± he


    scoffed. A trace of anger was heard in his voice.


    Josie could not argue back as she turned her head away. ¡°Saving a life has far more value than


    building


    memorials for the dead.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just hell-bent on going against me, isn¡¯t it?¡± His response was swift as he forcibly turned her


    head to face him.


    ¡°Is it wrong for me to find my own means to survive, Dexter?¡±


    She stared back and replied calmly. She would face him if that was what he wanted.


    The man¡¯s eyebrows quirked.


    She tried to get away from him. ¡°You told me you thought of Summer as your sister. Tell me, Dexter, is


    it still the same now?¡±


    It took a lot of courage for her to ask the question, as it meant that she still had expectations of him.


    Dexter noticed it, and the darkness behind his eyes dissipated. He released his grip. ¡°It¡¯s not that


    simple about Summer. Not only me but even Arnold does not have the liberty to make a choice.¡±


    Josie nodded silently as she understood him. She crawled into the bed and buried her face into the


    pillow. ¡°I want to sleep. Do whatever you want.¡±


    A deafening silence fell upon the ce.


    She drifted in and out of her sleep. Her heart sank when she woke up and felt the coldness next to her.


    She stepped out of the bed and headed to the door.


    She did not like wearing slippers indoors. Her bare feet made no sound on the floor. She nudged the


    door open slightly, vaguely hearing Dexter¡¯s voice, It seemed even colder in the night.


    ¡°Notying hands on women and children, prioritizing morality in everything you do. Even Hades would


    want to help you¡­¡±


    ¡°Is it not embarrassing with me guiding your people in the things you do? How useless. Aren¡¯t you just


    wasting my time with these so-called ethics and morals wasting away in you?¡±


    He spoke slowly with sharp words.


    A shiver ran down Josie¡¯s spine. Not wanting to be involved in Dexter¡¯s world, she turned to leave.


    But her legs refused to move as they were rooted to the spot.


    ¡°Have I not told you who you can and cannot touch in my family? It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve made a


    move. Don¡¯t make me do it because of one woman. It will be ugly for everyone involved.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Dexter was the president of Russell Group, but he had countless other identities.


    There was a time when he did not appear much in public. As a result, some believed he had kicked the


    bucket.


    Some of his enemies targeted Dexter¡¯s people. They kidnapped the person to Spain, thinking that they


    were safe. They never expected Dexter¡¯s man to chase them down throughout the night. Some of the


    most skilled in the world were even willing to risk themselves for Dexter as they relentlessly pursued


    the kidnappers. The incident served as a deterrent.


    When they saved the kidnapped person, the kidnappers disappeared from the ends of the earth.


    The news traveled all over the world. From then on, no one dared to make a move against Dexter¡¯s


    people.


    Josie could have left without alerting him, but she knocked into something while walking away.


    Immediately, Dexter turned in her direction.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Exasperated, she shut her eyes.


    She pushed the door open with a nk expression. ¡°I can¡¯t sleep and wanted to go for a walk. Are you


    not going to bed yet?¡±


    Dexter hardly slumbered as he had trouble falling asleep.

 Chapter 342

    Chapter 342


    Chapter 342 Don¡¯t Venture into It


    Josie felt a wave of nervousness wash over her as his eyes bore into her. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to eavesdrop. I


    woke up and didn¡¯t see you. I thought you had left, so I came looking for you.¡±


    Freshly awakened, dressed in a nightgown, and with a hoarse voice, Josie emitted an innocent aura


    that effortlessly pacified one¡¯s guard.


    Dexter grabbed her around the waist and leaned in for a kiss, but Josie evaded, as she still felt a


    lingering fear. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to kiss me.¡±


    The excessive sweet talk felt overwhelming, and Josie couldn¡¯t tell if this deliberate coquettishness was


    a way to mask her own uneasiness.


    Smitten by her coquettishness, Dexter let go of his stern demeanor and said, ¡°Hmm, I¡¯ll join you in


    bed.¡±


    Josie rarely indulged in coquettishness, but when she did, Dexter couldn¡¯t resist, just as she couldn¡¯t


    escape when Dexter was upset.


    Dexter settled her onto the bed, tucked her in with a nket, and positioned himself beside her. He had


    no intention of leaving.


    Noticing her quivering eyshes, he took the initiative to break the silence. ¡°Did you hear a lot of what I


    said?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t hear the entire conversation but heard enough to peer into his realm. It was a domain of


    decisive actions, choices that left no room for negotiation. Unlike the business world, where there was


    space for discussion and maneuvering, his realm had no ambiguity. Everything was clearly defined,


    and specific rules were adhered to.


    And Dexter was the ruler.


    With her eyes cast downward, Josie confided, ¡°I heard you mention that you haven¡¯t done it in a long


    time.¡±


    Dexter smiled, appreciating Josie¡¯s intelligence and sharpness in understanding the boundaries of their


    conversation. With just a bedsidemp casting a soft glow, he pulled her close and asked gently. ¡°Have


    you ever seen the true extent of my pluck and willpower?¡±


    Josie shook her head, sensing the underlying warning.


    ¡°Dexter¡¯s authority wasn¡¯t solely derived from brute force; he had a de-facto ability tomand the


    respect and obedience of his talented associates.


    So, what did it truly signify when Dexter asserted his dominance? It undoubtedly went beyond mere


    mercilessness and brutality.


    In a calm tone, Dexter said, ¡°You¡¯re familiar with the Russell family, right?¡±


    Of course! She had even been to their family estate.


    ¡°The Russell family, with a significant portion of both water andnd territory under their belt, couldn¡¯t


    afford to have no one at the helm.¡±


    These intricacies were always beyond Josie¡¯sprehension.


    The Russell family operated on the razor¡¯s edge of the business world, where countless lives hung in


    the bnce as mere pawns. They were skilled, highly trained, and operated with utmost secrecy.


    Currently. Dexter has seized control of half of the Russell family.


    He shared that he had dealt with his fair share of unreasonable people in the business world, and only


    one incident went awry. The other party had acted all two-faced, undermining Dexter¡¯s young age and


    lack of experience, and attempted to overpower him.


    Caught off guard, Dexter¡¯s instincts kicked in,pelling him to take control of the situation. He


    unsheathed his sword, resulting in blood being spilled. The other party¡¯s arm became impaled and


    lodged in the table, with the skin torn and the bone pierced, rendering it immobile.


    That guy¡¯s arm was likely wrecked.


    Dexter¡¯s approach to using violence to counter violence was undeniably ruthless, reflecting someone


    who had traversed the world without desires or demands, showcasing his sharpness.


    Since that incident, Dexter hadn¡¯t encountered anyone as insolent. The woman in his arms trembled as


    she listened intently. Although she had long been aware of his unique identity, Josie couldn¡¯t quite


    come to terms with this inhumane side of him.


    However, she had always avoided that aspect, making him feel unfamiliar.


    Dexterforted Josie as if coaxing a child, saying, ¡°I think we¡¯ll stop here. But Josie, don¡¯t venture


    into such a world. Stay away from Arnold. I can assure your safety as long as you¡¯re my wife,¡±


    Josie believed that he was more than capable of doing so. Yet, he could also protect numerous other


    women, making her insignificant except for being his legitimate wife.


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    Josie simply nodded and didn¡¯t dwell on it, saying. I¡¯m feeling a little tired. I want to take a nap.¡±

 Chapter 343

    Chapter 343


    Chapter 343 Deceitful Woman


    Dexter momentarily stepped away to answer a phone call. Meanwhile, Josie closed her eyes,


    overwhelmed by sadness. His words had shattered her illusions When she woke again, it was already


    dawn, and Dexter was nowhere to be found. She rubbed her eyes, never liking to be left alone in such


    a situation, but she understood that he wouldn¡¯t spend the night in a ce like this


    After freshening up, she turned on the television and stumbled upon a reality show. It reminded her that


    she had to go to work that day. She packed her things and prepared to leave To her surprise, she


    noticed a figure outside the room. At the same time, Dexter entered the empty room, cing a packed


    meal box on the table. He called out. Josie?¡±


    There was no response.


    Standing in the center of the room, Dexter felt an inexplicable loneliness akin to an abandoned child.


    Josie, hiding behind the windowsill, furrowed her brow, struggling to reconcile this side of Dexter with


    her perception of him.


    Realizing his demeanor was turning cold before he turned away, Josie quickly revealed herself and


    dered. ¡°I¡¯m here; I haven¡¯t left yet.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Dexter pivoted, casting his gaze upon her. The whirlwind of emotions that had flickered in his eyes a


    moment ago dissipated, reced by an emotionless stare that sent shivers down her spine. Josie felt a


    surge of panic, fearing Dexter might lose control again, as he had the previous night.


    ¡°Calm down. I was just joking with you,¡± she uttered, mustering her courage to reach out and grasp his


    hand, attempting to quell his wrath.


    Dexter remained stoic, his face wearing a grave expression. Furrowing her brow, Josie gauged his


    reaction and inquired, ¡°Do I need to keep apologizing for you to forgive me?¡±


    This time, a smile tugged at Dexter¡¯s lips. This woman had a knack for melting his heart, knowing just


    the right words to say. Josie noticed the softening of his expression and said, ¡°Unlike you, I won¡¯t leave


    without warning.


    Dexter arched an eyebrow, unconvinced, ¡°Such a deceitful woman.¡±


    The television continued ying in the background as he reached out and pulled her into his embrace.


    Josie locked eyes with Dexter, his gaze unusually tender. She felt a weight settle in her heart, creating


    serendipity within her. For some reason, tears welled up in her eyes, but she couldn¡¯t pinpoint the exact


    cause.


    Sensing her gaze, Dexter leaned back slightly and whispered, ¡°Do I need to remind you to close your


    eyes when we kiss?¡±


    Without waiting for her response, he sealed her lips and kissed her passionately.


    Downstairs, Ivy had been waiting for a while and was growing impatient. Feeling curious, she went


    upstairs and was met with this awkward scene. Ivy caught her breath, silently retreated, and purposely


    cleared her throat.


    It was evident to anyone with keen observation that Dexter had a soft spot for Josie. He disregarded


    the dangers of speeding on the road. Hepromised his usual standards to spend the night with her


    in such


    a ce, all for this seemingly ordinary woman.


    However, something puzzled Ivy. While Dexter cared for Summer, his concern for Josie seemed even


    more significant. So, who held the key to his heart? In this world, a conclusion or absolute rationality


    was not always necessary.


    Subsequently, Josie decided to apany Dexter to the Russell Mansion.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Arnold¡¯s associates have secured the shipment at the harbor. It appears they n to


    transport it to Rivodia. Should we send someone to intercept it at the highway exit?¡± Aware of Josie¡¯s


    presence, Ivy reported cautiously.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze lingered on the documents. ¡°No need; it will be some time before he takes action again.¡±


    Josie nced at them and asked, ¡°What shipment?¡±


    Dexter remained silent while Ivy answered, ¡°Mrs. Russell, it¡¯s a shipment of alcohol.¡±

 Chapter 344

    Chapter 344


    Chapter 344 Overlooked Ivy


    Alcohol? What kind of alcohol would require Arnold to go through all this trouble?


    ¡°Arnold is heavily entrenched in the nightlife scene, and with his connections and influence, it wouldn¡¯t


    be difficult for him to generate that amount of money. No?¡±


    Dexter gestured casually and responded, ¡°When ites to alcohol, there¡¯s a whole spectrum to


    consider. Some of the finest quality, others just average, and let¡¯s not forget the shady side of things.


    Any thoughts. on which category of alcohol Arnold has found himself entangled with?¡±


    Josie pressed her lips together and asked, puzzled, ¡°What will happen if he gets caught?¡±


    Taken aback by her question, Dexter paused momentarily before mocking her, ¡°Feeling sorry for your


    boyfriend already?¡±


    Ignoring his sarcastic tone, Josie remained unfazed as he held her hand, idly toying with it, ¡°Isn¡¯t it a


    little too coincidental that the car ident happened just when it did? Even if I were to deal with him, I


    couldn¡¯t because he has a witness in his aid. So, does that mean I¡¯m supposed to surrender my wife to


    him?¡±


    Dexter spoke slowly. His words were infused with grim, Josie, he has me in a bind. It¡¯s impossible for


    me to attempt anything against him. Do you know what that means?¡±


    Josie trembled slightly. It was a little toote for her to finally understand why Andy insisted on guarding


    the hospital. It was because of Dexter.


    ¡°Like I¡¯ve told you before, Arnold is no kind soul,¡± Dexter let go of her.


    Josie exited the car as soon as they arrived at the Russell Group. She was dazed during the entire


    journey, and Dexter¡¯s warning wasn¡¯t entirely baseless; it had triggered a sense of vignce never had


    before.


    ¡°Ms. Warren,¡± somebody called out to her.


    Josie turned around and saw Wyatt. He was dressed in a sharp suit, looking professional and


    charming.


    ¡°Hey, Wyatt.¡±


    Wyatt walked up to her and smiled. ¡°I saw you getting out of Dex¡¯s car just now, but I didn¡¯t want to get


    caught, so I didn¡¯t dare call out.¡±


    Josie forced a smile and asked, ¡°How¡¯s work been treating youtely?¡±


    ¡°Not too bad,¡± the two walked side by side, passing through the gate.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been pulling long hours to meet the demanding deadlines set by Dex. On the bright side, our


    coboration with Auntie Xanthe is going great,¡± Wyatt purposely brought up Xanthe, leaving Josie to


    piece together his hidden message.


    ¡°She¡­ Has her son returned?¡±


    Wyatt nodded, understanding her concern. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. He¡¯s not back yet.¡±


    He stopped there and didn¡¯t say anything more.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    As they passed the front desk, a greeting sounded, ¡°Good morning, Ms. Warren. You have a package.¡±


    Josie went forward to im it. It was a package sent by a coborator.


    She thanked the front desk and suddenly remembered something. ¡°If I recall correctly, you¡¯ve been


    working the night shift recently, right?¡±


    The front desk hesitated for a moment. ¡°You have a good memory.¡±


    +5 Bonus


    Josie had a sudden realization. She mentioned a specific date. ¡°During those days, besides the night-


    owls stayed for over-time. Did youe across anyone suspicious entering or leaving the design


    department at night?¡±


    ¡°At night¡­..¡± The front desk frowned as she searched her memory. ¡°Not that I remember¡­ Only


    employees who were given the ID could ess Russell Group. It¡¯s unlikely for anyone to trespass the


    security,¡±


    Unable to uncover any leads, Josie felt a sense of anguish.


    To her surprise. Wyatt stood beside her, saying, ¡°I have some recollection of the time you mentioned. I


    remember that night, I had work to tend to, so I stayed until the wee hours of the night. When I left the


    office, I bumped into Ivy in the elevator. She was wearing a mask and a hat, and it didn¡¯t seem like she


    wasing to work.¡±


    Juy?!


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened, and a realization struck her. How could she have possibly forgotten about Ivy?


    ¡°Do you remember the exact time?¡± Josie grabbed his hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure, but it was likely around dawn. Strangely, she ended up on the same floor as the


    design department.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but let out a chuckle. She nodded in realization and eximed, ¡°Ah, now it all


    makes.


    sense! Thanks a bunch!¡±


    Despite searching everywhere, she had somehow overlooked Ivy

 Chapter 345

    Chapter 345


    Chapter 345 Kidnapped


    Seated at her desk, Josie scrolled through thepany¡¯s internal system, searching for Ivy¡¯s contact


    details.


    As a special assistant to Dexter, Ivy had special privileges, including unrestricted ess throughout the


    company and the power to remove any surveince traces.


    Furthermore, Ivy¡¯s connection with ire added anotheryer ofplexity to the situation.


    Josie med herself for overthinking and getting caught up in intricate possibilities, leading her to miss


    out on Ivy. But did Dexter take the recording pen away just to protect her?


    After finding Ivy¡¯s address, Josie swiftly jotted it down.


    When it was time to leave work, she hastened outside and gged down a taxi, only to realize she was


    being followed. It became apparent that the person tailing her was a pair of undercover bodyguards.


    Josie tried to ignore them. She even attempted to shake them off by taking a detour but to no avail.


    Eventually, she had no choice but to confront them, ¡°Did Dexter send you to follow me?¡± she asked.


    The two men exchanged nces, and one responded, ¡°Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t want you wandering


    around.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not wandering around. Can¡¯t I go back to Mason Garden?¡±


    ¡°Let us escort you,¡± the bodyguards said, followed by a tense atmosphere descending upon them,


    punctuated by a heavy silence.


    Josie quickly scanned the area, noticing their car conveniently stationed nearby. Understanding the


    potential dangers of resisting and trying to escape, she nodded in acquiescence, reluctantly falling in


    step behind them as they made their way toward the awaiting vehicle.


    However, as they neared the car door, armed individuals suddenly appeared from behind, swiftly


    attacking the two bodyguards on their heads with weapons.


    Amidst their agonizing struggle, Josie was dragged away. ¡°You¡¯reing with us, Mrs. Russell! Stop


    resisting!¡± One of them ordered.


    Josie was shoved into a van with her eyes blindfolded. Fear gripped her heart as she eximed. ¡°Who


    are you?¡±


    ¡°Take a guess, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    ¡°You know who I am, yet you have the nerve to offend me?¡±


    Someone chuckled, ¡°There aren¡¯t many in this city who could go head-to-head with you. Why not


    hazard a guess?¡±


    ¡°Was it Arnold?¡± Josie blurted out involuntarily.


    ¡°Well, thanks to Mr. Carter, we were able to locate you, they admitted.


    Upon hearing that, Josie couldn¡¯t help but express her disgust, ¡°You b*stards! Don¡¯t try to sow discord.


    Arnold is in the hospital. There¡¯s no reason for him to plot against me.¡±


    No matter how rough or deranged he might seem, he wouldn¡¯t dare harm the person who had rescued


    him. But in Wavery, who else could be her enemy? At that moment, a name sprung out, ¡°Ivy? Did Ivy


    send you?!¡±


    It had to be Ivy, then. She must have resorted to sneaky means since she couldn¡¯t openly confront me.


    ¡°Shut up! Enough with the gibberish!¡± Someone yelled at Josie.


    The van drove for what seemed like an eternity, causing Josie to lose track of their location. Finally, it


    came to a stop. The blindfold was removed, revealing a dpidated unfinished building before her.


    They brought Josie inside and ensured her hands were tied. Looking around, she was astonished to


    see Ivy sitting on a broken chair on the second floor, with aputer in front of her, typing away.


    Josie was taken aback, realizing there was another woman bound before her. It was none other than


    the fragile and helpless Summer, with blood at the corner of her lips, seemingly unconscious.


    ¡°Ivy! What¡¯s wrong with you?! You must have gone crazy to do this to us!¡± Josie shouted, incredulous at


    the scene before her. She never expected Ivy to go to such extremes!


    Upon hearing her voice, Ivy finally gazed at Josie and said, ¡°So, you¡¯vee.¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    It had been a long time since theyst saw each other, and Josie couldn¡¯t help but notice that Ivy had


    lost considerable weight. Her facial features had sharpened, emanating a colder and more ruthless


    demeanor.


    Ivy turned off theputer and stared at Josie with a gaze filled with hatred. She then asked, ¡°Has


    anyone found out about us?¡±


    Assured and relieved, Ivy descended the stairs and approached Josie.


    Through clenched teeth, she chided, ¡°Weren¡¯t you nning to divorce? Why haven¡¯t you gone through


    with it? None of this would have happened if you had!!

 Chapter 346

    Chapter 346


    Chapter 346 Who Would He Choose?


    Fear gripped Josie as she instinctively stepped back, ¡°So, it was you all along! You conspired with


    ire to smear my name!¡±


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Took you long enough to realize. Tsk. I wonder why Dexter would fall for an idot like you!¡±


    Ivy said while forcefully pushing Josic, causing her to trip and fall to the ground, leaving a bloody mark


    on her scraped elbow.


    Josie felt a burning sensation in her elbow. She bit her lips and red at Ivy. ¡°Why did you do this?


    Even if Dexter has no feelings for you, you can stay by his side as his personal assistant. Isn¡¯t that


    enough?¡±


    ¡°No! No! It¡¯s all because of you! It¡¯s your fault!¡± Wielding a hemp rope in her hand, Ivy ruthlessly


    assaulted Josie.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you, Dexter wouldn¡¯t have sidelined me! Josie Warren, you¡¯re good at your deceitful


    and despicable antics!¡±


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes as the pain in her wounded elbow intensified. She took a sharp breath,


    realizing that Dexter had removed Ivy from her role. It now made sense why Ivy had be so


    unhinged.


    ¡°Have you ever thought that your repeated boundary-crossing led him to make that decision? You


    betrayed his trust, and that¡¯s why things turned out like this. No one forced you to make those choices!¡±


    Ivy¡¯s fixation and infatuation with Dexter sent chills down Josie¡¯s spine.


    Josie¡¯s confrontation stirred up Ivy¡¯s anger. A cruel smirk formed on Ivy¡¯s face as she retorted, ¡°We


    were always in sync, like soulmates. No one in this world understood each other better than us. But


    ever since. you came, everything changed¡­¡±


    Ivy¡¯s demeanor and words revealed her unraveling state, with her head shaking frantically and her


    body swaying uncontrobly.


    ¡°It was you! It was you who took away his love for me!¡±


    Ivy¡¯s voice echoed through the room as she relentlesslyshed at Josie with the hemp rope. Beads of


    sweat rolled down Josie¡¯s face from the intense physical torment.


    Ivy turned away, her gaze fixed on the lush trees outside. She sighed and reminisced. ¡°I remember I


    first. met Dexter; it was spring. He asked if I wanted to be his assistant with a charming smile.¡±


    A tender smile graced Ivy¡¯s lips as she recalled that moment. ¡°I know deep in my heart that we would


    end up with each other if things had gone as nned. But you¡­ Josie Warren! You robbed him away


    from me!¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes remained cold and unwavering. ¡°You¡¯re delusional.¡±


    ¡°No, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s delusional!¡± Ivy¡¯s disheveled hair added to her frenzied appearance as she


    squatted down, forcefully gripping Josie¡¯s face.


    ¡°Why do you think he asked you for the recording pen? It was to protect me, Josie. Between you and


    me, he chose me!¡±


    Who Would He Choose?


    ¡°Stop fooling yourself. He would never like you!¡±


    Undoubtedly, this incident left a deep emotional wound in Josie¡¯s heart. However, deep down, she


    knew Dexter didn¡¯t do that to protect Ivy.


    Ivy simply didn¡¯t hold enough significance in Dexter¡¯s life.


    Josie¡¯s words triggered a wave of anger within Ivy. She forcefully pushed Josie away, a sneer forming


    on her face. Today, I want to see if you truly matter to him!¡±


    Confusion and worry filled Josie¡¯s mind. What did Ivy mean? Had she told Dexter about their


    kidnapping?


    Josie turned her gaze towards Summer, who was forced to kneel nearby. A sense of dread washed


    over her, ¡°What are you going to do to us? Why involve an innocent person in our grievances?¡±


    ¡°Well, she¡¯s not just anyone,¡± Ivy remarked, lifting Summer¡¯s pale face with the tip of her high-heeled


    shoe.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if Dexter will choose you over her. Or vice versa.¡±


    Josie¡¯s thoughts raced in chaos. Ivy had gone insane, resorting to extreme measures!


    ¡°But she¡¯s the only daughter of the Olsen family. You ought to pay with your life if anything happens to


    her!¡±


    ¡°Do you think I still bother about my life at this point?¡± Ivy retorted, her voice filled with determination.


    Desperate, Josie ignored the pain in her body and shouted, ¡°Wake up! Wake up, Summer!¡±


    But Summer remained motionless. Ivy gloated, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I drugged her. She won¡¯t wake up


    anytime soon.¡±


    ¡°Ivy! No!¡±

 Chapter 347

    Chapter 347


    Chapter 347 There¡¯s Still Time to Change Your Mind


    Ivy fixed a piercing gaze on Josie, her expression filled with disdain. ¡°You¡¯re quite the cunning one,


    aren¡¯t you? Knowing your time as Mrs. Russell was limited, you seduced Arnold and won him over to


    your side. Impressive how you managed to maintain that rtionship,¡± she taunted. ¡°so, did you sleep


    with him?¡±


    Josie stood her ground, her voice steady. ¡°Arnold and I have never crossed that line. As she locked


    eyes with Ivy, a realization dawned on her. ¡°You were aware of the close connection between Arnold


    and me, which is why you sent those photos to Dexter, pretending they came from Arnold.¡±


    Ivy sneered, neither confirming nor denying Josie¡¯s usation. A sense of indifference seemned to


    wash over her. ¡°You fooled me, keeping me under your control all this time!¡±


    A subtle tremor passed through Ivy¡¯s body, her gaze wandering as if lost in distant memories, ¡°The first


    time Iid eyes on Dexter was at an airport overseas. I had lost my luggage during the check-in


    process, and I was in despair, unable to speak Spanish or receive proper assistance. That¡¯s when he


    appeared and offered his help


    ¡°I¡¯m not lying. I had no idea about his high status and identity then. Yet, I was attracted to him. It was


    love at first sight, Ivy confessed, her voice tinged with nostalgia and bitterness.


    ¡°We were only together briefly, but he lifted me out of despair, giving me a glimpse of a better life,


    teaching me elegance and grace.¡±


    ¡°I knew I didn¡¯t deserve someone like him, but I couldn¡¯t help but hope. And then, within just a couple of


    days, he offered me the position of his special assistant. These past few years by his side have felt like


    a dream, fulfilling beyond words.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ he was heartless¡­ He discovered my feelings for him and fired me.¡± Ivy showed no hint of


    remorse. She slowly lowered herself to a squatting position, her voice wavering with a chilling tone. ¡°He


    was unbelievably heartless¡­¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    As Josie observed her, Ivy had manifested signs of obsession with Dexter.


    Josie¡¯s words were blunt, yet they hit the mark with unwavering truth. ¡°You knew from the start he


    wouldn¡¯t have feelings for you¡­¡±


    Tears streamed down Ivy¡¯s face uncontrobly, smudging her makeup into a messy blur.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. But why? I¡¯m an exceptional woman. Why doesn¡¯t he like me? Josie, it¡¯s all because of


    you. Everything is because of you!¡±


    Despite facing Ivy¡¯s frenzied screaming, Josie remainedposed. She spoke slowly, deliberately.


    ¡°You can¡¯t hold onto someone like him.¡±


    Ivy red at her.


    Josie continued, ¡°I can¡¯t hold onto him either.¡±


    ¡°As his special assistant, you should know that women would flock to him with his status and


    attractiveness. Don¡¯t you know that he could easily date multiple girlfriends simultaneously?¡±


    Ivy momentarily contemted Josie¡¯s words before letting out a cold, disdainfulugh. ¡°Are you trying


    to


    lecture me? How presumptuous of you. Just because you¡¯re Mrs. Russell, you think you¡¯re above


    everyone else and your life is secure. Dexter understands what goes in your mind. Even if you hold the


    title of his wife, it won¡¯t guarantee you any special treatment.¡±


    Blood trickled from Josie¡¯s mouth as she trembled with fear and anger. ¡°At least I¡¯m the rightful Mrs.


    Russell. Dexter still acknowledges me as his wife. We have no prenuptial agreement, so if we divorce, I


    have a im to his assets. But what about you?¡±


    Aware of Ivy¡¯s n and hoping to buy some time, Josie attempted to distract her.


    Ivy tightly clenched the hemp rope, causing her fingertips to turn white.


    ¡°Ivy, just think about it. You¡¯ve got credentials from the Russell Group that can take you ces. Why


    settle


    for this crumbling ce and waste your youth? There¡¯s still time for you to change your mind.¡±

 Chapter 348

    Chapter 348


    Chapter 348 Had Suspicions Early on


    Ivy¡¯s scream reverberated through the air. ¡°No! There¡¯s no turning back for me, Josie! It¡¯s toote!¡±


    With those words, she forcefully yanked Josie off the ground and flung her beside Summer. ¡°Now, let¡¯s


    see who Dexter chooses!¡±


    Just then, the guard stationed by the door notified Ivy, ¡°Ms. Miller, Mr. Russell has arrived.¡±


    Ivy lifted her head, her eyes brimming with anticipation, ¡°Did he bring anyone with him?¡±


    The guard surveyed the surroundings before responding. ¡°No, he came alone.¡±


    Josie summoned every ounce of strength to move her aching body and strained to look outside. The


    ring sunlight made her squint and feel uneasy.


    As the iron gate swung open, a man stepped in, bathed in a radiant halo of sunlight. But his presence


    exuded a dark and solemn aura.


    Each of his footsteps bore down on Josie¡¯s heart, making it difficult to catch her breath.


    Ivy¡¯s gaze locked onto Dexter, her expression bordering on madness, and she choked back tears, ¡°Mr.


    Russell¡­ you came.¡±


    Dexter halted his steps at a distance, eyes scanning over Josie before briefly lingering.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one who asked me toe?¡±


    He reached out to unbutton his cuff, his eyes filled with menacing intent.


    ¡°But did youe for me?¡± Ivy cautiously inquired, fully aware that it wasn¡¯t the case, yet clinging to a


    foolish glimmer of hope.


    Dexter remained silent, nonchntly removing his coat and tossing it onto a nearby stack of wood. He


    then slipped the ring off his finger and stashed it in his pants pocket.


    Ivy¡¯s smile faded, and her attention turned to the two women beside her, ¡°So, Mr. Russell, which of


    them. did youe for?¡±


    Josie recoiled, a tinge of anxiety creeping in. She knew better than to ce high expectations on


    Dexter, as she wouldn¡¯t be the one he chose.


    Dexter locked eyes with Ivy with a poker face, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m curious; when did you start suspecting I was behind all this?¡± Ivy asked with a gentle tone.


    ¡°Quite some time ago. I noticed you deleted the iing call on my personal phone.¡± Though he didn¡¯t


    mention explicitly whose call it was, they both knew.


    Ivy shook her head in disbelief. ¡°After all these years of serving you, you doubt me over one small


    mistake?¡±


    ¡°Not only that,¡± Dexter continued, ¡°only a few people knew about the incident at the construction site,


    and


    even thepany¡¯s senior executives were kept in the dark. Yet, you quickly med Josie when you


    knew we had a strained rtionship. Doesn¡¯t that seem suspicious?¡±


    Dexter was always vignt and had a keen eye for deception. He had a knack for seeing through


    facades and uncovering what appeared wless and random.


    ¡°Ivy. I wish it didn¡¯t have toe to this,¡± Dexter said, his gaze unwavering. ¡°you were someone I


    mentored and considered a confidante.¡±


    The weight of Dexter¡¯s words made it clear that Ivy held significance in his life. Tears filled Ivy¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°But just because I threatened Josie, you sidelined me! Dexter, I¡¯ve always been loyal to you!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Dexter¡¯s tone turned firm. ¡°What about the photos of Arnold and Josie? Can you exin that?


    Who is your aplice? You tell me!¡±


    As it turned out. Dexter had been fully aware of everything all along.


    Avoiding eye contact, Ivy¡¯s guilt weighed heavily on her. ¡°No! It wasn¡¯t me!¡±


    ¡°What is it that you want?¡± Dexter¡¯s patience wore thin, unable to tolerate the seemingly endless.


    confrontation.


    Wiping the tears from the corners of her eyes, Ivy stealthily signaled a cryptic nce at the guard.


    The guard wasted no time, dragging Summer towards the suspended area. He fastened her hands with


    a hemp rope to the steel bars, leaving her fragile form teetering by the edge, a mere step away from a


    fatal plunge from the second floor.


    A single misstep would result in either her untimely demise or a life gued by crippling injuries.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 349

    Chapter 349


    Chapter 349 Making Him Choose


    Ivy brandished a knife, pressing it against Josie¡¯s throat with a maniacal grin on her face.


    ¡°Dexter, you have to make a choice,¡± Ivy taunted. ¡°save Summer, and I¡¯ll slit Josie¡¯s throat right now.


    Choose Josic, and Summer¡¯s rope will be cut, sending her tumbling.¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s it going to be? An easy decision?¡±


    The knife¡¯s edge pressed against Josie¡¯s throat, causing her to wince in pain. She gasped for breath


    and looked at the man before her, his cold eyes gleaming, unsure of what to say.


    Dexter locked eyes with her, his thoughts a tangled web.


    ¡°I know what you¡¯re made of, Mr. Russell. Let¡¯s see who¡¯s quicker, you or my knife,¡± the guard standing


    by Summer taunted Dexter.


    Dexter found himself in a stalemate, unable to handle both situations simultaneously.


    ¡°You said you love me.¡± Dexter suddenly spoke, his words causing Ivy to flinch instinctively.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking you to choose between them!¡± Ivy¡¯s voice quivered with anxiety, swaying under the


    influence of Dexter¡¯s hidden agenda.


    ¡°Are you sure you really love me?¡± He chuckled lightly, exuding a sinister charm in the midst of this


    twisted situation.


    ¡°If you had confessed your feelings earlier, you could have be Mrs. Russell. But you didn¡¯t; how


    was I supposed to know?¡±


    Ivy locked eyes with him, her gaze filled with unmistakable affection, her hand trembling as the knife


    sliced into Josie¡¯s skin, causing her pain.


    ¡°Are you insinuating that you would have chosen me over Josie?¡±


    ¡°Of course, when I decided to marry, I simply needed a woman for the role. It could have been anyone,¡±


    Dexter took a subtle step forward, his words carrying a convincing tone.


    Ivy grew wary, ¡°But you said something different before¡­¡±


    ¡°We were simply boss and employee. I had to maintain that professional boundary, of course. But


    things have changed now. I honestly don¡¯t have any romantic feelings for her. If you had confessed


    your feelings for me earlier, you would have had the upper hand, Dexter exined.


    So, Ivy was right. Dexter had no feelings for me. Josie¡¯s heart trembled, realizing Dexter was really


    skilled in maniption.


    Ivy cautiously backed away while keeping Josie close, her suspicion still lingering, ¡°You¡¯re lying! The


    Dexter I know wouldn¡¯te unprepared. Did you call someone? Did you inform the police?¡±


    She immediately gestured for someone to check outside, shouting loudly, and tightened her grip on the


    knife, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll kill them?¡±


    His expression grew grim. Dexter remained still, no longer advancing.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t call anyone.¡±


    The guard returned from checking and confirmed that no one followed them.


    Ivy felt slightly relieved, saying, ¡°Now, it¡¯s time for you to choose. On one side is yourwful Mrs.


    Russell, and on the other is Summer, the daughter of the Olsen family. I wonder who will be your pick.


    If something were to happen to Mrs. Russell, the entire Wavery would know that you, Dexter, are a


    widower. And if any harm befalls Summer, the Olsen family will never let you and the Russell family go


    unscathed.¡±


    ¡°For a guy like you, who always puts your own interests first, this is no doubt a tough call. Oh, Mr.


    Russell, I¡¯ve really made thingsplicated for you.¡±


    Dexter arched an eyebrow in response, pointing towards Josie.


    Amidst Josie¡¯s burning and terrified gaze, a hoarse voice suddenly emerged, ¡°Dex!¡±


    Unexpectedly, at that moment.


    Summer regained consciousness, swaying violently in mid-air, consumed by sheer terror. ¡°How did I


    end up here? Dex, help me!¡±


    Her once cold and beautiful face disyed intense fear as she gazed wide-eyed at her surroundings,


    trembling, crying, and desperately calling out to Dex. pleading for help.


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    Her cries were so heart-wrenching that even Josie was moved.


    ¡°Summer!¡± Dexter¡¯s hand clenched, veins bulging with tension, as he hurried a few steps toward her in


    a state of anxiety.


    Witnessing that scene, Josie closed her eyes and shed a bitter smile.

 Chapter 350

    Chapter 350


    Chapter 350 In This Together


    Ivy grinned with satisfaction, loosening her grip slightly. But just then, Dexter, facing the other way.


    abruptly turned around and charged toward them.


    He swung his leg,nding a powerful kick right in Ivy¡¯s vulnerable spot.


    Ivy¡¯s face instantly paled, and in that moment of pain. Dexter swiftly seized the opportunity.


    overpowering her and pinning her to the ground.


    The knife ttered to the ground.


    His movements were fluid and precise. On this hand, Josie was relieved. She quickly crawled away,


    gasping for breath as she observed the unfolding scene.


    Dexter firmly restrained Ivy, catching her off guard with agility and speed. In a panic, Ivy shouted to the


    guard. ¡°Push her down!¡±


    The guard, hearing hermand, promptly moved to cut the rope. Fearing for her life, Summer cried


    out, ¡°Dex!¡±


    Josie¡¯s instinct kicked in, and despite her injuries weighing her down, she leaned forward, desperately


    wanting to save Summer.


    Fortunately, the rope was too thick to be severed immediately. Dexter¡¯s expression shifted dramatically.


    and he swiftly rose to his feet, rushing towards Summer. Josie could only watch helplessly as he


    decisively left her side.


    Suddenly, amotion erupted outside.


    Arnold had arrived, wielding a gun from his wheelchair. In one swift motion, he disabled the guard by


    shooting his leg, preventing him from cutting the rope that held Summer.


    However, she was already teetering on the edge, ready to fall with the slightest movement.


    Josie fixated her gaze on the unfolding scene.


    Just as Summer was about to plummet, Dexter lunged forward, grasping her wrist. Gravity pulled


    against them, his body scraping against the rough ground, nearly being dragged down.


    Summer looked up at Dexter, her voice shaky. ¡°Dex.¡±


    ¡°Hang on!¡± Dexter clenched his teeth, veins bulging on his neck. ¡°Summer, you have to hold on.¡±


    Amid the chaos, Arnold¡¯s men were still locked inbat with the remaining guards, leaving Dexter


    without immediate assistance.


    Following Ivy¡¯smand, the injured guard grabbed a wooden stick and mercilessly swung it toward


    Dexter¡¯s shoulder and neck, aiming to kill him.


    ¡°Dodge!¡± Josie cried out, her voice reaching Dexter¡¯s ears. He swiftly turned his head, narrowly


    avoiding the deadly strike.


    However, the guard showed no mercy. Relentlessly, he unleashed a barrage of brutal strikes upon


    Dexter¡¯s immobile leg, each piercing Josie¡¯s heart like a knife.


    Sweat dripped down Dexter¡¯s forehead as the pain surged through his body. His strength was depleting


    Even Summer, trembling beside him, shook her head. ¡°Let go, Dex. Just let go of me.¡±


    Dexter emitted a furious roar without uttering a word in response.


    ¡°Just let go!¡± Summer pleaded, her voice filled with anguish.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been nothing but a burden all this time. I¡¯ve loved you wholeheartedly, but my love was never


    reciprocated. Dex, all I ever wanted was to see you happy. So, even if I die, don¡¯t me yourself, and


    please live a fulfilling life.


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    ¡°Quit with the doomsday talk, Summer! We¡¯re in this together, okay?¡± Dexter¡¯s words strained through


    his gritted teeth.


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    Dexter and Summer looked like a couple on the brink of separation in life or death. Josie couldn¡¯t help


    but feel anxious and moved by their intense emotions.


    ¡°Hold on tight!¡± Dexter grabbed onto the rough wall, leaving bloody smears behind.


    ¡°Quick!¡± Arnold shielded his wound, propelling the wheelchair with one hand while gripping the gun, his


    gaze fixed on the guard behind Dexter. He squinted and sidelined a shot at the hand holding the


    wooden stick.


    The guard went down in a tumble,pletely immobilized.


    With no more obstacles, Dexter breathed a small sigh of relief. Clenching his teeth, he mustered every


    ounce of his strength to haul Summer up.


    Eventually, they both copsed on the ground, gasping for air, and everyone around breathed a sigh of


    relief.


    Summer clung to Dexter at that moment, a mix of anxiety and joy in her voice, ¡°Dex, I thought I was


    going to die¡­¡±


    The disheveled and breathless man grinned in relief, having escaped the clutches of death, as he


    gently caressed her head, ¡°We made it. We¡¯re safe now.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile slowly faded, and a somber expression reced it.

 Chapter 351

    Chapter 351


    Chapter 351 He Chose Summer


    And at that moment, Arnold¡¯s voice pierced through the chaos, causing Josie¡¯s heart to skip a beat,


    Josier¡±


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    Ivy, who had been knocked down by Dexter, unexpectedly rose and snatched the knife from the


    ground. forcefully thrusting it into Joste¡¯s abdomen.


    The sudden attack caught Josie off guard, and her face turned pale as her eyes fixated on the scene of


    Dexter and Summer locked in an embrace. Ivy¡¯s eerie voice echoed in her cars, ¡®So he¡¯s made his


    choice


    now¡­


    With each passing moment, Ivy increased the pressure, driving the knife deeper into Josie¡¯s body.


    Josie stared nkly, her gaze drifting down to see her blood pooling around her, a disturbing amount of


    blood.


    Unbeknownst to her, Dexter¡¯s expression had changed; his face was contorted with disbelief and


    devastation. ¡°No! Josie!¡±


    The sky hadn¡¯t fully brightened yet, and a faint hue of pale blue colored the distant horizon.


    Leaning against the railing, a man stood there, his attire now different.


    He wore a simple, solid-colored shirt with a couple of buttons undone, and his sleeves were rolled up a


    couple ofyers.


    Even in the gradually brightening sky, one could still make out the untreated wounds on his arms.


    smudged with dried blood from the friction.


    Emanating a menacing aura, and his face contorted with anger.


    Standing alongside him were his subordinates, one kneeling on the ground. ¡°It¡¯s my fault, Mr. Russell. I


    screwed up by not realizing that Mrs. Russell was being followed and left vulnerable. I take full


    responsibility and am ready for whatever punishment you see fit.¡±


    The atmosphere in the room grew tense as the weight of responsibility settled upon them. All the


    bodyguards were acutely aware that the stakes were high, and any harm that befell Josie under their


    watch, they would face harsh consequences.


    The man nonchntly flicked his cigarette, watching the ashes scattered in the air, his gaze fixed on


    the expansive sea. With a steady voice, he broke the silence. ¡°How long have you been on my


    payroll?¡±


    The person stammered in fright, ¡°A¡­ a¡­ a year.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile sent shivers down the spines of those present, his aura cold and indifferent. His


    bodyguards sank to their knees one by one, acknowledging his unwavering authority.


    He snuffed out the cigarette, his gaze slowly turning toward the person. His tone was eerily calm. ¡°A


    year? Yet you failed me. Screwed up my rules and expectations! Do you have any idea the sh*t you put


    me in? How on earth can I trust someone as ipetent as you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t expect Ivy would betray us and harm Mrs. Russell. So, I didn¡¯t beef up the security¡­¡±


    The person¡¯s feeble defense crumbled under the man¡¯s overpowering presence.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze passed over the kneeling figure, catching a glimpse of a figure in a white cloak bustling


    about. Josie was being attended to and rescued in the surgery.


    Speaking deliberately. Dexter¡¯s voice tinted with fury and seriousness. ¡°I¡¯m not going to deal with you


    guys right now. You should know you¡¯ve failed me miserably! But let me make myself clear, if anything


    happens to that woman in there, every single one of you will pay with your lives!¡±


    His demeanor remained cold and stern, and the subordinates quickly cowered down. They had worked


    for Dexter for a year but had never seen him this furious. Usually, he was indifferent and aloof. This


    time. they had indeed struck a nerve.


    ¡°Get out!¡±


    The space beside him cleared as the room¡¯s door finally swung open. Anderson, the top surgeon from


    Wavery Hospital, removed his blood-stained gloves and walked up to Dexter. He couldn¡¯t help but


    comment. ¡°I remember you never smoke.¡±


    In fact, Anderson had an important surgery scheduled today, with the patient already on the operating


    table. However, the hospital director coerced him to take Josie¡¯s case, promising to take responsibility if


    anything went wrong with his patient.


    It turned out the hospital director wanted Anderson to rush over and save the daughter-inw of the


    Russell family!


    Dexter¡¯s expression softened slightly upon seeing Anderson¡¯s disheveled state. He squinted his eyes,


    signaling that Anderson should refrain from any ambiguous remarks.


    ¡°Thank the heavens you got her here just in time, and the emergency procedures were executed


    without dy. She was almost a goner, but we were able to save her. Anyway, once the anesthesia


    wears off, she¡¯ll wake up.


    Dexter nodded, refraining from unnecessary words.

 Chapter 352

    Chapter 352


    Chapter 352 Didn¡¯t Recognize Him


    Anderson let out a sigh, crossed his arms, and fixed his gaze on Dexter, pondering the mysterious


    depths of his character. Dexter was an enigma.


    As an executive of the influential Russell Group and a prominent figure in the country. Dexter was


    known for his exceptional strategic nning skills. Since his early twenties, he had earned a formidable


    reputation, instilling fear in both allies and adversaries. Dexter possessed remarkablepetence and


    charm, attracting the attention of both men and women. He was indeed a force to be reckoned with.


    Anderson couldn¡¯t help but be perplexed by the fact that Dexter had managed to captivate the


    unwavering devotion of three women to the point where they were willing to put their lives on the line


    for him.


    It was mind-boggling!


    Josie remained unconscious for two days, oblivious to the events unfolding around her.


    During that time, the necessary procedures were carried out without any interruptions. When the police


    arrived, Arnold willingly handed over the gun cooperatively, ¡°The gun was legally obtained from the


    shooting range.


    After a thorough inspection, the police decided not to pursue the matter further.


    The police targeted to review the surveince footage and address the public¡¯s anxieties.


    Arnold¡¯s tone was curt. Seated in a wheelchair, he turned to Dexter, who had just finished giving his


    statement, ¡°If there are any issues, I¡¯ll take care of them.¡±


    Without explicitly mentioning Summer or Josie, Dexter knew who he referred to.


    Josie slowly emerged from her unconscious state, awakening to the soft twilight. The gentle glow of


    light caressed her face, unveiling an unfamiliar environment. Every slight movement sparked sharp


    pangs in her shoulders.


    Dexter¡¯s injury had received treatment, while his demeanor exuded a distant and detached air, like a


    solitary snow-capped peak, evoking a sense of abandonment.


    The woman resting on the bed resembled a delicate porcin doll, her beauty still evident despite her


    fragility.


    Dexter longed for her vibrant and spirited self, like a flustered kitten baring its ws.


    His voice softened. Leaning closer, ¡°Are you awake?¡±


    Josie stared at him intently, blinked with innocence, and asked, ¡°Who are you?¡±


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    Dexter nced at Anderson beside him, questioning his medical expertise.


    Anderson appeared puzzled, ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    The man¡¯s tone turned cold, ¡°Amnesia?¡±


    Anderson looked at Josie and replied, ¡°It doesn¡¯t add up. The wound is on her body. What does it have


    to


    do with her memory?¡±


    Josie bombarded them with a barrage of questions, ¡°Who are you guys? Why am I here? Why am I


    injured?¡±


    Furrowing his brow, Anderson asked Josie, ¡°Are you sure you haven¡¯t seen this man before


    Josie met Dexter¡¯s intense gaze, shaking her head in confusion. Dexter leaned closer, his fingers


    delicately touching her face. With a piercing stare, his fingers trailed down to her chin, firmly gripping it.


    ¡°Josie,¡± he said, his gaze unwavering. ¡°you don¡¯t recognize me, do you?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes were clear and fearless. She struggled to speak, ¡°You¡¯re so intense.¡±


    Dexter loosened his grip slightly but soon tightened it again, a hint of mockery on his lips. ¡°Is that so?


    Maybe I should reconsider your father¡¯s treatment.¡±


    The newly awakened woman grew agitated in an instant.


    She kicked her legs, fighting to break free from Dexter¡¯s hold. ¡°Let go of me, you jerk! Leave me alone!¡±


    As Josie had hoped, Dexter let go of her, stood upright, and observed her frantic efforts with a


    nonchnt expression as if she were merely an insignificant ant. Tears streamed down Josie¡¯s face,


    mingling with her messy hair.


    Thest moments before losing consciousness reyed in her mind. Josie felt a sense of regret,


    realizing that instead of fleeing, she had stayed to witness the chaos. She had always been cautious


    and valued her life, yet she consciously decided to stay¡­ What on earth was she thinking? Had she


    lost her mind?!


    Her chest rose and fell heavily, causing the wound to throb unbearably. She tried topose herself,


    though tears continued to stain her cheeks.


    All the time Anderson had known Dexter, he had never seen a woman speak to him so boldly. Josie


    was definitely throwing caution to the wind.


    Dexter nced at Anderson, prompting him to quickly shift his demeanor. Anderson gently tucked


    Josie in and spoke with tenderness, ¡°Please calm down. Let¡¯s prioritize healing your injuries for now.¡±

 Chapter 353

    Chapter 353


    Chapter 353 When I Apologized to You


    Anderson knew Dexter, but they weren¡¯t particrly close, so he had no clue who Josie was However,


    observing their interaction, Anderson could tell that Dexter held significant concern for her.


    Gasping in pain. Josie clenched her eyes shut. Dexter noticed her avoidance of eye contact, and his


    expression turned serious. ¡°I won¡¯t halt your father¡¯s treatment. Your injuries are severe, so rest up¡±


    With that, Dexter turned to leave, but Josie suddenly asked. ¡°What happened to Ivy?¡±


    ¡°She realized there was no going back for her crime. She took a knife and ended her own life,¡± Dexter


    calmly revealed, a glimmer of concealed vengeance flickering in his eyes.


    Ivy didn¡¯t even wait for the police to arrive.


    ¡°Ivy is dead¡­.¡± Josie repeated numbly, the words sinking in. ¡°And what about Summer?¡±


    ¡°The Olsens took her away, saying they would go through a thorough investigation,¡± Dexter¡¯s eyes


    curved slightly.


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief,¡± Josie murmured, finding sce in knowing that the Olsen family would support


    Summer no matter what.


    She looked up, staring motionlessly at the man. ¡°How much do you know about Ivy¡¯s scheme?¡±


    ¡°I received a call only when you were taken away,¡± Dexter seemed genuinely unaware. Otherwise, he


    wouldn¡¯t have been so passive during the rescue process.


    ¡°Arnold. You brought him there,¡± she stated matter-of-factly.


    ¡°It was a dire situation. I couldn¡¯t think of anyone but him.¡± Dexter replied, meeting her gaze. ¡°but I


    didn¡¯t expect him toe alone.¡±


    Both of them understood what it meant, and silence settled between them.


    Josie¡¯s mind was brimming with unspoken thoughts, but she grappled with where to begin. With a tinge


    of sarcasm, she addressed Dexter, ¡°Well, Mr. Russell, it seems like the people around you always find


    themselves in unfortunate situations.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze briefly swept over her abdominal wound, his expression growing solemn, ¡°This time is


    my bad. I will make it right.¡±


    ¡°Make it right?¡± Josie sneered coldly, ¡°And how do you n to do that?¡±


    Anderson was bing perplexed. He knew the whole story; logically, it wasn¡¯t Dexter¡¯s fault. In fact,


    it was remarkable that he had managed to save both of them in such dire circumstances. So why did


    Josie harbor such resentment towards him?


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    Dexter took a seat nearby, facing Josie directly. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    In the dim twilight, the woman¡¯s face appeared ashen. Instead of answering directly, she asked, ¡°You


    came back early because you knew Summer had returned, right? Did you go to see her?¡±


    That was the truth, and Dexter had no intention of hiding it anymore.


    ¡°Yes, I did.¡±


    Josie said coldly and then averted her gaze. I rest my case.¡±


    Ivy¡¯s words still echoed. ¡®So he chose Summer¡­.


    Indeed, Dexter had always chosen Summer over her.


    Dexter got up and left.


    Josie stared at the spot where the man disappeared at the doorway, the corner of his coat fluttering as


    if she could still smell the long-lost tobo scent. She felt like crying.


    Stop it, Josie! What¡¯s the matter now?


    What is there to cry about?


    Anderson handed her a tissue and gently wiped away her tears,forting her softly. ¡°No need to be


    sad. Mr. Russell has rounded up everyone under Ivy¡¯smand because of what happened to you. If


    you don¡¯t wake up, not a single one of them will escape.¡±


    Josie paused, surprised by his words.


    After that, Dexter was noticeably absent for the next three days. He was upied with dealing with the


    aftermath of the situation.


    Anderson stayed in Mason Garden to nurse Josie back to health. His smile never wavered, even in the


    face of her coldness or reluctance to take medicine, ¡°Mrs. Russell, trust me. You wouldn¡¯t want this


    wound to leave asting scar on your beautiful skin.¡±


    Eventually, Josie would relent and allow Anderson to tend to her.

 Chapter 354

    Chapter 354


    Chapter 354 Making up Stories


    Josie remained confined to the main bedroom, constantly under surveince. She felt more like she


    was being monitored than cared for.


    Sitting up was a challenge. At times she would find herself gazing at the ceiling, overwhelmed by a


    long- forgotten fear. Lately, her nights of sleep were haunted by visions of Dexter and Summer


    embracing in that abandoned factory.


    Anderson prepared her oral medication, crushing it and mixing it with water. He asked curiously,


    ¡°You¡¯ve been so quiet. Why don¡¯t you talk to me? Do you still have feelings for Dexter?¡±


    Josie nced at him, and Anderson pulled a piece of candy from his pocket, trying to tempt her.


    Looking at the unfamiliar face before her, Josie was intrigued to make fun of him, ¡°You may find it hard


    to believe, but I¡¯m his ex-wife.¡±


    Anderson was taken aback, ¡°Ex-wife?¡±


    Josie sighed frustratedly, recounting her fabricated past, ¡°I met him when I was just sixteen, and he


    was a nobody. I married him despite all the difficulties we faced. But as soon as he became wealthy,


    everything changed. He cheated on me with another woman, and she had a terrible postpartum


    hemorrhage. And guess what? He had the audacity to ask me to donate blood to her¡­¡±


    Anderson¡¯s eyebrows shot up in astonishment, nearly disappearing into his hairline. Under normal


    circumstances, he would have dismissed such a story as unbelievable. Dexter didn¡¯t fit the mold of


    someone who would do that.


    Yet, Josie¡¯s tear-filled eyes and the mix of determination and anguish on her face lent her words an air


    of credibility.


    Anderson consoled her. ¡°Alright. Alright. Crying will hurt your wound. It¡¯s all in the past now¡­¡±


    ¡°Dexter is an ungrateful bast*rd!¡± Josie sobbed and asked, ¡°Anderson, have you just started working for


    him?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve had some acquaintance, but I don¡¯t know much about him. That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t recognize you,¡±


    Anderson replied.


    Josie pleaded desperately, her voice filled with urgency, ¡°Please, you have to listen to me. He¡¯s not a


    good person. I beg you, let me go. I¡¯ve finally managed to escape his control and never want toe


    back here. Please let me go¡­¡±


    Anderson hesitated, caught off guard by the intensity of Josie¡¯s plea. His initial curiosity had been mere


    gossip, but now he was confronted with a shocking revtion.


    Anderson¡¯s jaw dropped at the revtion that Dexter had been married before. He couldn¡¯t wrap his


    head around the fact that there was a whole strange and unexpected backstory behind Dexter¡¯s calm


    and collected exterior.


    Seizing the opportunity presented by Anderson¡¯s brief hesitation, Josie pressed on, her voice filled with


    desperation. ¡°Imagine yourself in my position. Could you bear such hardships?¡±


    D


    1/2


    Chapter 354 Making up Stories


    5 lone


    Anderson sympathized with Josie¡¯s plea, but he felt powerless. Tm sorry, but I cannot release you


    without Mr. Russell¡¯s permission.¡±


    Josie fell silent immediately, choosing not to say another word. She closed her eyes and yed dead.


    Meanwhile, upstairs in the room, the man sitting in the main chair heard every word Josie spoke


    through the monitor. He observed her transformation from a sad expression to impatience while lying in


    bed.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze turned icy as he stared at the woman on the bed. His eyebrow raised slightly, and a


    chilling aura emanated from him.


    Larry, his secretary, was sweating profusely, standing behind him.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t believe that Josie dared to fabricate such stories.


    A knock on the door interrupted the tense atmosphere. It was Anderson. His current mood mirrored


    Larry¡¯s, visibly uneasy and apprehensive.


    Dexter pulled open the drawer before him and retrieved his cell phone, absentmindedly scrolling


    through


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    1.


    ¡°Um, hey, there¡¯s no need to treat¡­ your ex-wife like that,¡± Anderson stammered, attempting to be their


    mediator.


    Dexter ignored him, cing the phone on the table without ncing at it. He stood up, tapped the table


    with his fingers, and walked out of the room without a word.


    ¡°She¡¯s still my wife. We¡¯ve never gotten divorced,¡± he muttered under his breath.


    Anderson and Larry exchanged bewildered nces, examining the illuminated phone screen together.


    It disyed the same story Josie had tearfully recounted, with over a hundred search results for the


    same melodramatic novel.


    Anderson was left speechless once again, confronted with yet another shocking revtion.

 Chapter 355

    Chapter 355


    Chapter 355 Olsen family¡¯s Stance


    Dexter cast a contemptuous re at Larry and Anderson. He couldn¡¯t believe he had such dim-witted


    subordinates.


    ¡°Can¡¯t believe you fell for it, Dr. Monte.¡±


    ¡°How was I supposed to know? She seemed so genuine!


    Dexter stood outside the door, his footsteps faltering for a moment. Josie was a master of deception,


    able to lie without flinching.


    Josie¡¯s injuries, though not life-threatening, healed rapidly under Anderson¡¯s attentive care.


    Dexter had instructed the subordinates not to inform Henry about the incident, so Josie had been


    undisturbed for the past few days.


    Every now and then, Anderson would apany Josie to the courtyard of Mason Garden, allowing her


    to breathe in the fresh air. The courtyard featured a small pond with vibrant carp, while thete spring


    and early summer brought forth blooming flowers, filling the air with the sweet scent of jasmine.


    Nestled near Wavery TV Station, Mason Garden served as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city


    Unbeknownst to them, time had swiftly passed, and Josie had been residing in Mason Garden for


    nearly a


    year.


    ¡°You know, Dr. Monte, it baffles me that you chose to be Dexter¡¯s personal doctor. With your


    medical skills, you could have easily be a renowned doctor in a top hospital and earned praise


    from many people,¡±


    Anderson rified, ¡°Well, my main role is still being an employee at the hospital. But truth be told, Mr.


    Russell yed a significant role in shaping my career. He sponsored my studies abroad, which led me


    to where I am today.¡±


    Despite his old-fashioned name, Anderson was far from being old-fashioned or outdated.


    ¡°We can¡¯t be so shallow. The purpose of being a doctor is to help and save people, Anderson said, a


    warm smile on his face as he looked at the petite woman standing before him. He never imagined that


    someone asical as Josie would end up marrying Dexter.


    ¡°On the day you got injured, I was about to enter the operating room. The patient was already under


    anesthesia when the hospital director suddenly appeared and personally asked me to save another


    patient. So, I was whisked away, and the surgery was reced by another attending physician. That


    time, I thought it must be some high-ranking official needing urgent medical attention, but little did I


    know it was you. And to my surprise, you are Dexter¡¯s wife,¡±


    Josie was equally taken aback by the revtion, ¡°But why did he do that?¡±


    Anderson chose his words carefully. ¡°Never underestimate your ce in his heart. When you were in a


    life-and-death situation, he didn¡¯t hesitate to choose you.¡±


    Puzzled. Josie took a deep breath, feeling a twinge of pain in her wound, ¡°Is that so¡­. but when it


    came to choosing between Summer and me, he didn¡¯t choose me.¡±


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    At that moment, her phone on the side buzzed. It was a message.


    Laura: ¡®Hey! How are you? Is everything alright? It seems like the Olsens have gotten wind of the


    shocking incident.


    Josie: ¡®So, what¡¯s their reaction and stance?¡¯


    Lauras They¡¯re furious. Really, really mad!


    Josie, you shouldn¡¯t underestimate Summer¡¯s importance to the Olsen family. Her family has explicitly


    forbidden her from having any contact with Dexter. They don¡¯t fear the Russell family; they¡¯re solely


    concerned about their daughter¡¯s safety.


    Josie stared at the words on the screen for a while and thought to herself. It must feel amazing to have


    such strong family support as Summer¡¯s.


    Josie hesitated for a moment before typing her message, then deleting it. Finally, she asked, ¡®And how


    are things going for you in the Olsen family?¡±


    After a brief pause, Laura replied, ¡®It¡¯splicated living under someone else¡¯s roof.


    It seemed things weren¡¯t going smoothly for her, ¡®Aren¡¯t you friends with Summer?¡±


    After a longer pause, Laura responded, ¡®Our rtionship isn¡¯t as close as the one I have with you.


    The intricacies of high society rtionships were hard to decipher.


    Josie couldn¡¯t shake off a sense of loneliness as she continued typing her message. Despite the


    material wealth and luxurious lifestyle, Laura yearned for the warmth and support of a loving family.


    Dexter had been upied with various matterstely. After dealing with Ivy¡¯s issues, numerous tasks


    still demanded his attention, and he hadn¡¯t had much rest in the past few days.


    Larry carefully observed Dexter¡¯s words and expressions. Despite Dexter¡¯s seemingly indifferent and


    nonchnt attitude towards Josie, there was an underlying sense of guilt emanating from him. But


    what was the source of this guilt?


    Larry hesitated for a moment before speaking, his gaze focused on the rearview mirror, where he could


    see Dexter resting his eyes in the backseat, ¡°Mr. Russell, Mr. Yanis, and the others are aware of your


    arrival, and they would like to have a face-to-face conversation with you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see them, Dexter declined, leaving no room for negotiation.


    Larry maintained his silence, understanding the weight of Dexter¡¯s decision.

 Chapter 356

    Chapter 356


    Chapter 356 Bring Her Home


    Dexter slowly opened his eyes. ¡°Stop the car,¡± he demanded.


    The car behind had been following them around for the past two days. It must be the people sent by


    the police to tail them. To avoid any problems, he chose not to hide from the police.


    Dexter walked towards the car that had stopped beside them, carrying a bottle of water.


    Summer watched as the man approached her car and stood by the door, gently knocking on her car


    door.


    Dexter handed her the water bottle and inquired, ¡°What brings you here? Are you feeling better?¡± He


    gazed at her with a slight grin.


    When Summer saw him, she smiled widely, her small face shining with joy. ¡°I¡¯m conducting research at


    the Russell Group. I wonder if I could have an interview with Mr. Russell?¡±


    As a researcher, she was tasked with creating a thorough due diligence report on several major


    corporations. This job was not a typical one for someone with her background.


    However, she was exceptionally good at her job.


    While maintaining eye contact, Dexter replied, ¡°I have three meetings scheduled and won¡¯t be avable


    until after midnight. If you don¡¯t mind waiting, we can have it after my meetings.¡±


    Summer was in disbelief. She nced down at her watch and saw that it was already six o¡¯clock.


    She believed Dexter was insane for maintaining such a hectic schedule. Over the past few days, she


    had been getting less than six hours of sleep each night as she followed him around.


    He never took a break from traveling as he had a packed schedule. ¡°Dex, please take care of yourself


    and prioritize your health,¡± she gently reminded him as he handed her a bottle of water.


    Dexter chuckled and walked away.


    Following the incident at the factory, Summer¡¯s desire for his attention grew stronger.


    Whenever Dexter thought of the incident, he was reminded of Josie, and his face would grow grimmer.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Summer watched warily as the man walked away, her grip on the bottle tightening.


    Despite her family¡¯s disapproval, she snuck out to find him. No matter what, she was determined not to


    give up on this man.


    After all, he persevered and rescued her from the factory, never giving up on her.


    The location for Dexter¡¯s final meeting was changed unexpectedly.


    When the residents of Wavery learned about the incident at the factory, they decided to host a


    gathering to wee him, which took ce at a bar.


    This ce was only frequented by people from wealthy backgrounds. Summer was curious, trailing


    behind Dexter as she attempted to enter the bar.


    They were individuals who had resided in Wavery for an extended period to work for Dexter. Although


    he was uneasy with their excessive eagerness, Dexter had to keep them satisfied to uphold a strong


    alliance.


    Summer hurriedly followed Dexter through the busy crowd but was stopped by an employee. ¡°Miss,


    you¡¯ve been here for a while. Would you like to order a drink?¡±


    Two hourster, Dexter¡¯s meeting came to an end.


    Summery sprawled across the table, her face flushed from the alcohol. The empty sses in front of


    her were a testament to her drinking. Dex leaned in closer to hear what she was saying. ¡°Dex, wait for


    me,¡± she mumbled under her breath.


    When they returned to the Mason Garden, Anderson was awakened in the middle of the night to


    prepare a hangover soup.


    Summer had a low alcohol tolerance and would be a child-like mess when drunk, iling her arms


    and making loud banging noises as she knocked things over.


    Dexter remained rooted to his spot.


    Anderson stared at him suspiciously, but his expression wasn¡¯t giving anything away.


    Dexter¡¯s secretary¡¯s exnation of what had happened left him gasping in shock. ¡°How have I never


    noticed Mr. Russell¡¯s poprity?¡± he wondered aloud.


    He brought another girl here, even though one was still recovering.


    Dexter¡¯s icy re could have cut through steel. Keep your voice down,¡± he hissed, raising his hands in


    surrender. There are still patients inside?


    Dexter thought of Josie, but his spiritless eyes betrayed no hint of emotion.


    Anderson entered his bedroom, unaware of the man struggling to restrain Summer¡¯s iling arms.

 Chapter 357

    Chapter 357


    Chapter 357 We Meet Again


    Josie tossed and turned in the unfamiliar bed, unable to fall back asleep after being awoken by the


    noise outside.


    The following day, she woke up feeling like a truck had hit her. She was drowsy, nauseous, and her


    head was pounding.


    She rubbed her eyes as she walked out of the bedroom, startled to see someone elseing out of


    the room opposite hers.


    Their eyes met, and they froze.


    Oh, there¡¯s a new girl, but she looks familiar. It¡¯s Summer.


    Summer¡¯s curled hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing her petite face. Her eyes wererge and


    luminous, even in the morning light. She was naturally beautiful, with an undeniable charisma.


    Summer met Josie¡¯s gaze, her eyes steady and unwavering. She then nodded at Josie and said, ¡°We¡¯ll


    meet again.


    Josie stood still before her, her heart pounding in her chest.


    Summer rubbed her temples and sighed. ¡°Are you feeling any better?¡± She shifted her gaze to Josie¡¯s


    stomach. ¡°No one could have predicted this. Please don¡¯t me Dex.¡±


    Summer spoke with such familiarity and intimacy that if anyone overheard, they might think she was his


    wife.


    Josie pressed her lips into a tight-lipped smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t.¡±


    Summer¡¯s smile faded as she spoke, ¡°I had too much to drinkst night. I didn¡¯t think Dex would bring


    me back here. I hope we didn¡¯t wake you up.¡±


    Throughout their conversation, Summer refused to address Josie as ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡± She couldn¡¯t bring


    herself to ept that Josie was Dex¡¯s wife.


    Josie shook her head and walked past Summer, heading for the stairs.


    Summer watched her go, tilting her head in confusion.


    There were many rooms in the Mason Garden, but she knew exactly which one Dexter was in. She


    raised her arms to knock on the door, wincing as she pulled at her injured waist. Her face twisted in


    agony.


    The secretary gasped in surprise as he saw Mrs. Russell standing there. ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I want to see Dexter.¡±


    Tm sorry, but Mr. Russell is taking a rest, the secretary said, flustered. ¡°No one¡¯s allowed to go inside.¡±


    ¡°Tsk,¡± Josie clucked her tongue. ¡°If he¡¯s asleep, why are you here? Are you hiding something from


    me?¡±


    The secretary¡¯s cheeks flushed with redness.


    He had no choice but to open the door to clear Josie¡¯s doubts.


    As soon as she entered the room, Josie saw that it was divided into two sections. Dexter was in the


    next


    room.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± she called out loudly.


    The socretary stared at her in disbelief. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell is still in bed. He will be furious if his


    sleep is disturbed. Please don¡¯t¡­¡± he pleaded, stepping in front of her to block her path.


    Josie felt her head spinning with anger. Her eyes narrowed as she pointed at the secretary. ¡°Out of my


    way, she warned.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, please, the secretary said, taken aback by Josie¡¯s outburst.


    ¡°I¡¯ll kiss you if you don¡¯t move, Josie said, leaning in close.


    The secretary¡¯s eyes widened in fear.


    Dexter, who was awake in his office, heard themotion and spoke into his Bluetooth earpiece. ¡°Let


    her in.¡±


    The secretary let out a sigh of relief and quickly stepped aside. Josie pushed open the door and


    marched into the office.


    ¡°Dexter, why did you bring Summer into the Mason Garden?¡± she demanded.


    Josie gasped and covered her eyes as she saw Dexter standing in the doorway, shirtless and dripping


    wet.


    His muscles were clearly defined, and his belt was undone, hanging loosely around his waist. He tilted


    his head as he towel-dried his hair, sending a spray of water droplets flying.


    The scent of soap and shampoo filled the room.


    Josie stood there, frozen in ce, her mind racing.


    She hated Dexter, but she couldn¡¯t deny that he was attractive. She felt her heart pounding in her chest


    as she watched him.


    She was captivated by his body and his handsome features.


    Dexter tossed his towel aside and nced at her with indifference. ¡°When have I ever needed your


    permission to bring someone home?¡±


    Josie lowered her hands and walked towards him. ¡°Now that I think about it, Mr. Russell has never


    cared about bringing random people home. As long as you¡¯re interested in them, you¡¯ll bring them


    home. After all, she¡¯s the girl who always makes you break your own rules. I just never thought you


    would have the audacity to disrespect me. I am your wife. Do you have to humiliate me like this?¡±

 Chapter 358

    Chapter 358


    Chapter 358 She Was Jealous


    ¡°Josic, Dexter said, his voice calm andposed. ¡°If people found out Summer was with me after she


    got drunk, her reputation would be destroyed.¡±


    He had no choice but to bring her home.


    ¡°Her reputation? Didn¡¯t she lose it when she locked you in the hotel room?¡± Josie asked, her eyes


    shing with anger.


    Dexter stared at her in disbelief. ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t hold back her true feelings. She knew she had stepped over a line when she saw


    Dexter¡¯s piercing re.


    She turned around hastily, ready to leave the room. I¡¯ll leave now,¡± she muttered.


    Dexter grabbed her wrist tightly, stopping her from leaving. His vigorous action identally pulled at


    her wound, causing her to wince in pain.


    Dexter gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was sharp and grim, his expression resolute.


    He stood close to her, and Josie inhaled the clean, fresh scent of his skin.


    Dexter¡¯s face was a paradox of softness and coldness. His features were naturally clear and clean, yet


    they exuded a chill that made others admire him from a distance.


    He was the kind of man who would have many admirers, even if he didn¡¯t have the wealth and power


    he had now.


    Josie felt her heart swell as she saw him up close for the first time in a long time.


    Dexter locked his eyes on hers and asked, ¡°Are you jealous?¡±


    Josie froze for a moment, taken aback by his question. ¡°Me? Jealous? Of who?¡± she stammered.


    She was d that he couldn¡¯t hear the pounding of her heart.


    Dexter leaned in close, his lips brushing her ear. ¡°Josie, you came here to find me because you¡¯re


    jealous,¡± he whispered.


    Josie felt heat rising in her cheeks as Dexter¡¯s words washed over her. Her anger had melted away.


    reced by a warm and unfamiliar feeling.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re ming me for saving Summer.¡±


    Josie stood frozen in ce, her heart hammering in her chest. Dexter¡¯s words had cut through her like


    a knife, exposing her deepest feelings.


    ¡°If I hadn¡¯t brought her home, would you havee to find me?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips were cold, but they left a trail of warmth wherever they touched.


    Josie¡¯s breath caught in her throat as soon as Dexter¡¯s lips met hers. She couldn¡¯t think of anything


    else.


    He was right about Summer. If she didn¡¯t show up at the house, Josie wouldn¡¯t havee looking for


    him.


    Their lips met in a passionate kiss. Dexter started out softly, savoring the feel of her lips against his. But


    as the kiss deepened, his passion grew more intense, and he bit her lips as if to express his pent-up


    frustrations.


    She gasped when she felt the prick of his teeth on her lips. She tried to push him away, but he held her


    tighter, pressing the back of her head and moving closer.


    The taste of Dexter¡¯s lips and his touch were so familiar. Josie had desired them for a long time.


    The thumping in her chest grew louder, and soon tears streamed down her cheeks. Dexter stopped


    when he tasted her teardrops.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t you be gentler?¡± she asked helplessly.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been ignoring me for days, he said in a deep, hoarse voice. ¡°Why should I be gentle with you?¡±


    Josie was speechless.


    Dexter leaned into her, lips pressed into hers as if he had longed for her kiss in that short pause.


    He could tell that she had be slimmer.


    As he kissed her passionately, his hands moved higher over her waist. Josie moaned in pain as he


    touched


    her bare skin.


    Her moan almost made him lose grasp of his sanity.


    Josie¡¯s lips were rosy. With her forehead creased, she told him. ¡°The wound hasn¡¯t healed.¡±


    Dexter took a few deep breaths to calm himself down. He turned around and buttoned up his shirt, fully


    recovered from their shared passion. His glossy eyes lost their glow and resumed their solemn state.


    He never intended to take it any further. His desire simply got the better of him. He had only wanted to


    calm Josie down from her sudden outbursts, but he was carried away by the heat of the moment.

 Chapter 359

    Chapter 359


    Chapter 359 Meet A Friend


    Dexter had a wound on his leg, a ghastly scar that looked like it had been treated before.


    Josie recalled the time Dexter had saved Summer in the factory when the bodyguard had hit him with a


    wooden stick without mercy. Her eyes darkened with worry as she asked, ¡°Are you having any trouble


    walking?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Dexter said, pulling on his pants to cover the scar. It¡¯ll be better in a few days.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t believe him. He had suffered a severe injury that had required him to stay in bed for several


    days before he could even walk normally again.


    ¡°Dexter,¡± she said, her voice firm. ¡°What were you thinking during the ten minutes it took you to save


    Summer?¡±


    Dexter stopped putting on his clothes and stood still, his mind racing back to the moment of the attack.


    After a moment, he said, ¡°She had to survive.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Josie, she¡¯s part of the Olsen family.¡±


    Ivy¡¯sst words before she died still echoed in his mind. She had told him that choosing Summer


    would. benefit him.


    Dexter only cared about his profits, not Summer.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were fixed on his silhouette as the truth dawned on her. She felt strangely at peace, as if


    she had expected him to act this way all along.


    What was there to be upset about?


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    Summer waited patiently downstairs. Mrs. Carroll had brought her a bowl of soup to help her recover


    from her hangover. ¡°Ms. Olsen, please let me know if you need anything else.¡±


    ummer smiled warmly at Mrs. Carroll. ¡°You¡¯ve been a great help,¡± she said. ¡°You don¡¯t have to treat me


    as


    guest, as I¡¯ll be here more often.¡±


    Mrs. Carroll was taken aback by what Summer said. She nodded her head awkwardly and walked


    away without answering.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± Dexter called from the second floor. He buttoned his cuffs as he walked down the


    stairs.


    Summer nced behind him and smiled coyly when she saw he was alone. ¡°Dex,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry


    for bothering youst night. You could have called the Olsens. They would have sent someone to get


    me.¡±


    Dexter pulled out a chair and sat down. ¡°You must know that your parents despise me very much,¡± he


    responded.


    Summer chuckled at his remark. ¡°No, that¡¯s not true. They oftenpliment you in front of me, and I


    know they appreciate your work.¡±


    Dexter shook his head. ¡°An elite student from London working as a researcher in a smallpany?


    Don¡¯t you feel like you deserve better?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind the work here,¡± Summer said, slicing her egg with the practiced elegance of a youngdy


    born into wealth. ¡°I¡¯m happy to be here, and I¡¯m learning a lot. Besides, I got to work with the Russell


    Group on my first project. It¡¯s like we were fated to meet again, Dex.


    The easy rapport between the two people left the other young woman in the Mason Garden


    speechless.


    Summer and Dexter were both from wealthy families, and they had both been raised in a refined and


    sophisticated environment. They moved with an easy grace that was both elegant and natural. Josie


    watched Summer and Dexter from the third-floor corridor, her eyes filled with despair.


    Summer returning to Wavery was like a scene out of a movie where the elite daughter of an affluent


    family returns to im what was hers.


    And Josie would have to give up her ce eventually.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Anderson asked,ing up behind her.


    He ced his hands on the railing to see what she had been looking at


    Josie forced a smile. ¡°Nothing,¡± she said. ¡°Dr. Monte, would you mind if I went outter this afternoon?


    I¡¯d like to meet a friend.¡±


    She was not fully recovered, and couldn¡¯t go too far, so Anderson brought a wheelchair to bring along


    for the ride. Anderson spoke to Dexter about Josie¡¯s request, and Dexter gave his approval. ¡°Take her,¡±


    hemanded.

 Chapter 360

    Chapter 360


    Chapter 360 Did You Have Anything To Do With It


    After the phone call ended, Anderson signaled to Josic, He agreed.¡±


    Josie smiled politely in response.


    It wasn¡¯t unusual to see someone in a wheelchair in the hospital. When Josie reached the VIP room,


    she saw that Arnold had recovered quite well. He was sitting on the sofa, listening to Andy¡¯s briefing.


    He wasn¡¯t surprised to see her at the door. He signaled to his bodyguard, who opened the door and let


    her


    1.


    Josie rolled her wheelchair into the room.


    Andy stopped talking when he saw her, but Arnold waved him off. ¡°You can continue,¡± he said.


    ¡°After the incident at the factory, the higher-ups are keeping an eye on the goods at the port. Should we


    transport the goods via the freeway or the highway? Maybe we should take a few detours as well.¡±


    Arnold narrowed his eyes, his arms exposed to the bright sunlight streaming through the curtains.


    ¡°Ronan should take the highway. There might be unwantedpany lurking on the freeway, waiting to


    attack us.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Andy said, nodding to Josie before leaving the room.


    Now that they were alone, Arnold stood up from the sofa. ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m also a patient, so I can¡¯t


    make you a cup of tea this time.¡±


    ¡°I never liked tea,¡± Josie disclosed.


    ¡°How¡¯s your injury? Dr. Monte is the best surgeon in Wavery. You shouldn¡¯t worry about scarring.


    Arnold was oblivious to Josie¡¯s hostility.


    ¡°You sure do get your news quickly.¡± Josie lowered her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll get straight to the point. Did you have


    anything to do with the incident at the factory?¡±


    Arnold paused for a moment. ¡°Does it look like I was the one behind it?¡±


    ¡°Ivy knew about us. She even had pictures of us meeting up. It¡¯s hard to believe you had nothing to do


    with it.¡± Josie spoke calmly, but her eyes betrayed her anger. ¡°And Summer is back because of you,


    isn¡¯t she?¡±


    Arnold picked up a pair of golden-rimmed sses and wiped them with a wet tissue. ¡°So, what do you


    want to know?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not surprised that Ivy kidnapped me, but how did she manage to kidnap Summer? It¡¯s a difficult


    task that would require help from someone else.¡±


    Their eyes met, unwavering and calm, despite the pressure of the situation. Arnold raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°I must not want to live anymore if I were to send the Olsen family¡¯s precious daughter into such


    danger,¡± he replied with a s¨¦ tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure someone was directing Ivy tomit these acts. They either wanted me dead, or they


    wanted Summer dead. Arnold, you only need to tell me if you are behind this.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± he answered without hesitation.


    Did You Have Anything To Do With It


    ¡°Can I believe you?¡±


    Arnold bent down to unbutton her blouse. Josie shivered, and her eyes widened in fear. She was no


    match for his strength.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± she demanded,


    Arnold opened her blouse, revealing the wound on her waist. Her skin was as pale as the gauze that


    had been used to cover it.


    Arnold gently tapped the wound. ¡°You can always believe me,¡± he said, meeting her eyes.


    Her eyes fluttered as her thoughts raced.


    For the rest of the week, Dexter was seen with a youngdy by his side at his appointments. The news


    spread quickly throughout Wavery like wildfire.


    During lunch, as Summer was researching a subsidiarypany, an employee approached her. ¡°Mr.


    Russell has never brought ady to his appointments before. Ms. Olsen is the first. There must be


    something going on between the two of you,¡± he said with a mischievous smile and a steely glint in his


    eyes.


    Summer felt her cheeks burning with embarrassment. She didn¡¯t expect to be misunderstood by others.


    Dexter, however, showed no hint of emotion.


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    ¡°Wasn¡¯t there a rumor that Mr. Russell was married?¡± someone asked.


    Dexter¡¯s face turned grim. ¡°It¡¯s just a rumor,¡± Summer quickly said.


    Everyone else at the table nodded in understanding.


    No one dared to make Dexter drink, but Summer kept the drinksing, one after the other.

 Chapter 361

    Chapter 361


    Chapter 361 Her Past


    Dexter teased, ¡°If you get drunk again, I¡¯m not taking you home.¡±


    Summer blushed and chuckled softly.


    She eventually did get drunk, and the driver had to carry her to the car. Shey on the seat with her


    arms under her head, looking at Dexter. ¡°I missed you, Dex, she muttered.


    Dexter¡¯s wrist was tangled in her hair! He didn¡¯t say anything.


    Summer continued talking under her breath. ¡°I had no money or connections when I left the country. I


    remember taking a bus for half a day to reach a forestry area in Northern California. The CEO of an


    investmentpany was staying at his vacation home there. By the time I got to the vi, it was dark,


    but I had to go into the forest with a shlight. My team needed the money the next day.¡±


    As she recollected her memories, she remembered that the mountain seemed to tower over her, its


    peak lost in the darkness. The night was dark, and there weren¡¯t any street lights to illuminate her path.


    She was constantly bitten by mosquitoes and had to be extremely careful not to slip. Suddenly, she lost


    her footing and fell, sliding down two stories. Her back scraped against a jagged rock, tearing through


    her skin and leaving her bleeding profusely. The pain was excruciating, and her injury left a deep scar


    on her back.


    She continued to climb the mountain cautiously, knowing that if she slipped again, she would fall to her


    death. As she neared the vi, the sky began to brighten, and she looked down at the valley below. Her


    blood ran cold as she realized how high she was, and her legs felt weak.


    Dexter was holding a lighter to light his cigarette but stopped when he heard her mumble. He paused,


    his thumb hovering over the lighter¡¯s wheel, lost in thought.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    This hasn¡¯t been the only time she¡¯s had to face dangerous situations on her own. If Summer hadn¡¯t


    been watchful and cautious, she wouldn¡¯t be here today.


    ¡°When I first became a researcher, I would camp at the office from noon until everyone got off work, but


    I wouldn¡¯t get any insights.¡±


    ¡°I had to pass by a dark and dangerous alley every day after work to return home. It was a known


    hangout for thugs, and I was always worried that they would target me. One day, as I was walking


    home carrying myptop, a group of thugs stepped in front of me and blocked my path. They must¡¯ve


    remembered me as I appeared there frequently.¡±


    He finally lit up his cigarette and took a deep drag. The smoke masked his face, concealing any hint of


    emotion.


    The thug was arge, muscr man with a scary tattoo. Summer felt a wave of fear wash over her as


    he roughly grabbed her and pushed her onto the ground. The stench of alcohol wafted off of him as his


    red eyes red with anger. He grabbed her by the shoulders and started to rip her clothes.


    Hopelessness tied her down like an insect helplessly trapped inside a spiderweb. Her eyes shed with


    darkness as she realized her life was about to end.


    Summer smiled as she described her story. Suddenly, she leaned in closer to Dexter. Her lips


    expanded into a wide grin, saying, ¡°Dex, do you know what happened next?¡±


    Dexter turned his gaze away from her.


    Summer picked up the cigarette box he had thrown on the floor. She opened it and saw the neatly-lined


    ck cigarettes. She took one out and reached for his lighter, a silver one from his favorite brand.


    He was reluctant to give it to her, but her nails dug into his palms as she pulled harder, and he finally


    had to let go.


    Summer ced the cigarette between her lips and lit it. She took a deep drag, and her eyebrows


    furrowed in a tight frown as the cigarette was much stronger than any she had smoked before. The


    smoke stung her eyes, but she didn¡¯t cough.


    Dexter stubbed out his cigarette on the carpet. The embers bit into the carpet, immediately burning a


    ck hole in it.


    ¡°What happened after?¡±

 Chapter 362

    Chapter 362


    Chapter 362 Do You Have Any Questions After?


    ¡°I was terrified as he reached for my bra. I grabbed an alcohol bottle from the side and hit him over the


    head. He started bleeding onto my skirt and all over my hands. When the police came, I exined to


    them that it was an act of self-defense, but no one believed me.¡±


    It was Arnold who flew all the way to help her.


    Summer started to chuckle. ¡°This was the lowest point in my life. It was a narrow escape from death, so


    I¡¯m no longer afraid of anything now.¡±


    ¡°Dex, I don¡¯t mind at all,¡± she stammered with a strong alcohol scent lingering. ¡°I love you a lot, and I


    don¡¯t care if you have a wife.¡±


    Dexter imagined Josie¡¯s profound eyes growing with contempt and exasperation.


    He fell silent


    Summer had a lot to drink and wouldn¡¯t stop prying on him, ¡°Have you known her for a long time?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Dexter muttered indifferently, without any intention of continuing the conversation.


    The conversation finally came to an end.


    The driver peeked through the rearview mirror and noticed his boss¡¯ eyes were icy cold, with a look of


    disdain masking his face.


    ¡°Summer came here because of Dexter. It waste, and the both of them were seated on the sofa at


    the hospital. ¡°She ruined his reputation, and he was infuriated. He gave the Olsen family an ultimatum,


    so they sent Summer to London,¡± Arnold exined indifferently.


    ¡°Summer had wanted to return to Wavery the past few years, but Dexter wouldn¡¯t let her return. He


    didn¡¯t want her here.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you get her back?¡±


    ¡°Well, some things are best kept secret.¡± Arnold¡¯s lips curled into a knowing smile. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be his


    rival if I hadn¡¯t had such capabilities.¡±


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    Anderson took Josie back to Mason Garden. That night, Dexter did not return home. His driver


    informed them that Dexter would be sleeping elsewhere, alone.


    Josie trusted Dexter. He had called to inform her, so she knew he was telling the truth.


    Wavery was bing warmer as summer approached. After one month, Josie had fully recovered,


    and Anderson could finally leave Mason Garden.


    Josie returned to work at the Russell Group. Even without her, the design department had been


    functioning smoothly.


    Josie had lost weight, and her personality had be more reserved. Alice couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Jo,


    are you okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine. Why do you ask?¡±


    Do You Have Any Questions


    ¡°Nothing. I saw you walking from afar, and I can¡¯t believe how much you¡¯ve changed.¡±


    Josie chuckled softly.


    For the past month, Josie had been working remotely without affecting the progress of her work. Now


    that she was back in the office, most people were surprised to see her.


    After work, Josie went to the Carter Group. Arnold had a press conference at the Carter Group,


    She saw Summer at the press conference. Summer was typing at the back of the hall, her hair tied


    back in a bun.


    She was a skilled and gorgeous woman with outstanding charisma.


    Summer was surprised to see Josie at the event.


    She politely nodded at her with a smile, but her demeanor was distant and cold.


    Josie was well aware of the rumors that had been circting about Summer and Dexter for the past


    month.


    Everyone was talking about how differently Dexter treated Summer.


    Josie had only seen Dexter a few times in the past month, and they hadn¡¯t had a chance to speak.


    Thedy in the white blouse, do you have any questions?¡± the speaker on stage suddenly asked into


    the microphone.


    Josie was the only one wearing white in the audience, so everyone¡¯s attention immediately turned to


    her. She lifted her head slightly, feeling confused by the situation.

 Chapter 363

    Chapter 363


    Chapter 363 To Anger Her


    Everyone¡¯s eyes were on her.


    Josie snapped out of her daze after three seconds. It was a Q&A session.


    ¡°Hello, Mr. Carter. The Carter Group is a top corporation in the current market, and its style aligns with


    the CEO¡¯s personal visions and goals. If the CEO steps down, will the Carter Group continue to be led


    in such a manner, and will it go against the Russell Group once the partnership ends? That¡¯s all for my


    question. Thank you.¡±¡°¡±


    The question was both controversial and interesting.


    Everyone at the press conference noticed the change in her demeanor as she asked it. She began


    sounding nervous, but by the end of her question, she had calmed down and sounded confident


    Arnold, who was on the stage, chuckled softly before asking. ¡°What¡¯s yourst name?¡±


    Why is he acting? ¡°You can call me Ms. Warren,¡± she replied.


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    ¡°Ms. Warren, you have an outstanding question. However, this is not the appropriate forum for me to


    answer it I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.¡±¡°¡±


    Arnold had an interesting way of avoiding the question. He had managed to keep her dignity intact


    while also avoiding answering the question himself.


    The audience gave a polite chuckle.


    Josie rubbed her nose and forced a smile. She held a grudge against him but knew she had to be


    professional.


    Suddenly, the realization dawned upon her. Many reporters were present, and she had forgotten that


    the forum was being broadcast live.


    Back at the Russell Group, the executives were also watching the forum. They were impressed by


    Arnold¡¯s answer, but they were also amused by Josie¡¯s reaction. They found her adorable, and they


    couldn¡¯t help butugh.


    The secretary coughed behind Dexter, signaling for everyone to keep theirposure. They all turned


    to look at the man at the end of the table, who was sitting with his hands sped together, his leg on


    the table, and a stern look on his face. His eyes were cold and distant.


    Arnold sent Josie home when she left the forum.


    They had grown closer since theirst conversation and were now friends.


    ¡°Why did you choose me just now!¡± Josie asked.


    ¡°To anger her,¡± Arnold replied. It was clear who he was talking about.


    Josie was unfazed. She might not even care about you, she said, just like how Dexter doesn¡¯t care


    about her.


    Arnold chuckled without replying to her


    Josie froze in the doorway of her bedroom, her eyes widening


    She turned on themp, and Dexter nced at her side of the bed. He wanted to reach out and touch


    her, but she curled into a ball, avoiding his touch.


    His hand lingered on the dented part of the bed where she had slept, his palm warm from her body


    heat.


    He nced at his watch. It was two in the morning.


    Josie was sent home by another man at thiste hour. She¡¯s getting bolder by the day.


    Is she sleep? The corner of his lips lifted into a smirk as he walked into the bathroom. He was surprised


    to see the clothes Josie had changed out of.


    They were filled with the scent of alcohol, even smoke.


    Josie asionally drank a little alcohol, but she never smoked.


    His anger boiled over as he immediately pulled her up from her bed.


    She cried out in pain and grabbed his wrist, but he flung her hands away. She fell onto the bed,


    knocking on her head. Josie looked up in fear as he knelt on one knee beside her, his face inches from


    hers. His hands were raised, and she knew they were meant for her.


    His hands hovered in mid-air as if he had finally regained his senses. After a moment, he reached out


    and gently cupped Josie¡¯s chin in his hands. His chilling smile sent a shiver down her spine. ¡°You stole


    the show today, Mrs. Russell,¡± he said.

 Chapter 364

    Chapter 364


    Chapter 364 Punishment


    Josie shoved him away. ¡°Leave!¡± she demanded, her eyes shing with anger.


    But she had no say in their rtionship. ¡°Leave?¡± he sneered.


    His hands were inches away from her chest.


    Her pajamas fell open with a slight tug on the knot of her belt. She was pushed onto the bed, her hands


    pinned above her head by the man¡¯s strong grip. His lips were like fire on her neck, leaving two red


    marks in their wake.


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    It wasn¡¯t a kiss but a vicious bite.


    Josie¡¯s face twisted in disgust as she raised her arms to p Dexter, but he easily pinned her down.


    ¡°Have you gone insane?¡± she yelled.


    In the dim light, she noticed that he wasn¡¯t wearing their wedding ring.


    Dexter loosened his grip and followed her darting eyes. ¡°You must like Arnold Carter,¡± he said, his voice


    deep and menacing.


    Josie felt a surge of anxiety pin her into ce as she froze.


    The man¡¯s voice dripped with venom as he continued. ¡°Have I mistreated you??


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, he ripped off her pajamas and roughly fell on top of her.


    The next day.


    It was raining outside. The view from the balcony was obscured by a thick mist that covered the


    mountains in the distance, and the sound of raindrops beating on the leaves was deafening.


    The weather forecast predicted that the thunderstorm wouldst for another week.


    Josiey in bed, covered by a rumpled nket that exposed her bare shoulders. She stared at the wall


    in daze, lost in thought. After a few moments, she sighed and got up, slowly making her way to the


    bathroom.


    A slight movement made her whole body ache as if her bones had been shaken apart and roughly put


    back together. Her forehead furrowed into a deep scowl as she felt the pain.


    He went three rounds with her while she was awake, but she was eventually knocked out.


    When she woke up the next time, she could only feel her body aching all over. The man was gone, and


    a bitter emptiness coiled around her heart.


    The rainy weather made the room feel suffocating, so she went downstairs for her meal. When the


    maids saw her, they all averted their eyes, sighing as they pitied her.


    Josie felt like she was gasping for air. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm


    herself


    down. Her phone buzzed, and she answered the call.


    ¡°I finally reached your her colleague¡¯s voice rang through the phone. ¡°What happened, Josie? Why


    were you fired?¡±


    She opened her eyes with a start.


    Josie felt a chill run down her spine. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± she asked, her voice shaking. ¡°I


    wasn¡¯t fired.


    ¡°I just saw the notice on the office bulletin board,¡± her colleague uttered. ¡°It says you were let go.¡±


    Josie¡¯s stomach churned as she nced around the room. Her eyesnded on the car keys on the


    table. They must be Dexter¡¯s. She snatched them up and darted into the garage. ¡°Exin slowly,¡± she


    called our as she turned the engine on. T¡¯m on my way to the office.¡±


    She felt like fate had dealt her a cruel hand.


    The sky seemed to be falling in on her.


    ¡°The stock market took a turn within an hour of opening, and the whole market is in chaoL¡¯


    Josie¡¯s hands started to tremble on the steering wheel.


    She scrolled through her contacts, contemting whether she should make the call. Suddenly, her


    phone rang. It was Arnold.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Arnold asked worriedly.


    Josie forced a tight-lipped smile as she shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    The Carter Group was also caught up in the mess, but Arnold seemed unruffled. He continued in a


    calm voice. ¡°Your man is intriguing. As expected from Dexter.¡±


    He had caught on quickly,


    Josie¡¯s smile faltered. Her body still ached, and she felt exhausted.


    Her stomach churned, and she ran to the bathroom to vomit. Tears welled up in her eyes.

 Chapter 365

    Chapter 365


    Chapter 365 In Trouble


    ¡°Are you on your way to the Russell Group?¡± Arnold asked indifferently.


    ¡°If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have dragged you into this mess,¡± Arnold continued. Josie slowly lifted her


    head, her temples still pounding. She used a napkin to wipe her mouth, then took out her lipstick and


    applied it. As she did, her face slowly began to brighten.


    She shouldn¡¯t have crossed the line with Dexter.


    ¡°How¡¯s the situation?¡± she asked.


    Arnold frowned as he scanned the stock market report. This doesn¡¯t look good,¡± he observed. The


    problem is moreplicated than we thought. It¡¯s not just the Carter Group that¡¯s being targeted Small


    and medium-sized businesses all over Wavery are being affected. The whole market is in trouble.¡±


    Josie could never have imagined that Dexter would go to such lengths to get back at her. ¡°What about


    the Carter Group?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    ¡°We¡¯re taking emergency measures to address the stock market problem, but Dexter¡¯s decision also


    affects his subsidiarypanies, including the team led by Wyatt,¡± Arnold said urgently.


    Josie felt her head pounding. He must be out of his mind. ¡°Tell me what I have to do, she demanded,


    ¡°Dexter must be stopped. This stock market cannot continue to crash. I¡¯ll send you a file with the


    affected businessester.¡±


    The phone call ended. Josie knew she couldn¡¯t drive to the office, so she immediately called Moses,


    ¡°Where are you?¡±


    He was stunned to hear her voice. She hadn¡¯t been to the officetely, so he was on a break at home.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised to hear from you. I thought you¡¯d already fired me.


    ¡°Stop the nonsense. Come to Mason Garden and pick me up.


    After packing her things. Josie opened the file on her phone. She saw that Wyatt¡¯s team was on the list


    ofpanies affected by the stock market. Dexter had announced their independence from the


    corporation, but seeing them go through such trouble was a pity


    Moses arrived shortly after. Josie got into the car but didn¡¯t answer when he asked where they were


    going The car idled outside the gates of Mason Garden,


    Josie finally made the call to Wyatt. After a long ring, he picked up. ¡°Josie?¡±


    His voice was weak and weary. He sounded exhausted.


    ¡°How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Thepany was about to be listed, but now the stock market is in chaos. A foreignpany has


    offered to buy us out at a high price


    Josie¡¯s eyebrows furrowed at the news. ¡°Your opponent is the Russell Group


    ¡°What does that have to do with me?¡± Wyatt asked, his voice sharp.


    There was a long pause before he continued, Josie, I¡¯m starting to think this is all a scheme.¡±


    Josie felt a pang of guilt at Wyatt¡¯s words. She closed her eyes and asked, ¡°Where are you? I¡¯ll go over


    to


    you.¡±


    She shouldn¡¯t have angered him. She was finally starting to understand how important her position as


    Mrs. Russell was.


    Wyatt told her his location, and she instructed Moses to take her there immediately,


    The emerce business attracted mostly young and passionate individuals. Everyone at Wyatt¡¯s


    office was whispering and discussing, clearly having encountered a problem..


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Josie walked inside the office, guided by Wyatt¡¯s assistant. ¡°Wyatt,¡± she called as she entered his


    office.


    As soon as the door opened, her heart sank. She saw two people inside, one of whom she recognized


    as the woman who had been seen with her husband in the past month.


    Summer was dressed professionally and had a file in her hands. When she saw Josie enter the room,


    her eyebrows raised, and her lips curled into a wide smile.


    The room fell silent.

 Chapter 366

    Chapter 366


    Chapter 366 May I Speak With You for a Moment


    Josie halted her steps. Wyatt stood up from his seat, surprised to see Josie. He was about to greet her


    but hesitated as Summer was around.


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    ¡°Take a seat,¡± he spoke indifferently. ¡°Summer, you can continue.¡±


    Summer ced the files on the table and exined, ¡°A foreignpany has decided to buy all your


    stock. While they are in the process of doing so, I rmend that your team develop a policy for your


    shares. You could prioritize your trusted aides with your dividends. If you are unable to prevent your


    company from being taken over, you could also bring your opponent down by repaying your


    outstanding debt early. This would create a financial crisis for thepany that is trying to take over


    yours.¡±


    Wyatt didn¡¯t say a word, clearly deep in thought, as he mulled over what Summer said.


    Josie


    stood lost in thought, her gaze drifting over the nts on the windowsill,


    Summer continued, ¡°There is another option. You could try to find out who is behind this and find a


    supporter to buy yourpany¡¯s shares. They could then go against your opponent and artificially


    inte the price of thepany. This would not only help yourpany, and¡­¡±


    Wyatt interjected, ¡°Summer, if we follow this n, ourpany could go bankrupt before we have a


    chance to defeat our opponent.¡±


    Summer tilted her head.


    ¡°I could ask my father to support you, but even with his resources, we may not be able to defeat them


    without outside help. It will take time to find out who is behind this.¡°


    Summer nodded. ¡°Your concern is understandable. I will do my best to help you ovee this. I need


    a little more time to think it over.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Summer. The information you brought me today was very useful.¡±


    Summer chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re like a brother to me. I don¡¯t need thanks for helping the family.¡±


    Wyatt¡¯s shifty eyes and restless posture were evidence enough of the awkward position he was ced


    under.


    She turned to leave but paused beside Josie with a smile. ¡°Ms. Warren, may I speak with you for a


    moment?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath, pursed her lips, and nodded at Wyatt.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t sure what you like, so I got both of us Americano.¡± Summer passed her a cup of warm coffee


    from the cafe downstairs. Her slender fingers were adorned with beautiful nail art.


    Josie nced at her bare fingers. She couldn¡¯t have any nail art, as she needed to work on designs.


    ¡°Thank you¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t add any sugar¡± she said. ¡°I assumed you and Dexter have simr tastes, so I ordered his


    usual.¡± Summer¡¯s ck hair framed her face as she smiled, her eyes curving into crescents,


    entuating her


    May I Speak With You for a Moment


    ssically beautiful appearance.


    ¡°I like it very much. Josie said with a warm smile. She bent her head to take a sip of her coffee, and


    Summer noticed the bruises on her neck. She froze, her heart pounding.


    I¡¯m d you like it. While I was away, you took care of Dexter. In the future, if you want anything. I¡¯ll do


    my best to give it to you. She spoke with a resolute voice and took Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°After the incident at


    the factory, I knew you were a good person.


    Josie didn¡¯t return her smile and slowly pulled her hands away. ¡°I believe you¡¯d be safe no matter what


    happens, with your great luck and Dexter¡¯s protection. It had nothing to do with me.¡±


    Summer remained collected despite Josie¡¯s hostility. She spoke with an innocent air, ¡°But you were


    hurt. I hope it didn¡¯t affect you too much.¡±


    Josie stared at her, a shiver running down her spine. She was no ordinary woman if this woman could


    control Arnold for all these years.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry: I mean you no harm, even though you are Dexter¡¯s wife.¡± Summer took a sip of her coffee


    and leaned back in her chair. Her eyes were unwavering as she continued, ¡°I know you won¡¯t be


    wearing that title for much longer.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but scoff at her confidence. ¡°How can you be so sure of yourself?¡±

 Chapter 367

    Chapter 367


    Chapter 367 He Doesn¡¯t Want To Return Home


    Despite Dexter¡¯s recent mistreatment, including causing the stock market to crash, Josie knew he


    wouldn¡¯t divorce her if she didn¡¯t bring it up


    *Dexter told me you married him to make Grandpa happy,¡± Summer said, her eyes gleaming with


    innocence.


    Josie felt her heart swell in her chest. ¡°He told you?¡±


    He even shared this deep secret with Summer


    ¡°Yes, he told me everything,¡± she said, her eyes scanning Josie¡¯s expression.


    Josie realized that she didn¡¯t want to put up against her anymore. ¡°Yes,¡± she said, ¡°we¡¯ll get a divorce


    when the time is right. But Ms. Olsen, I need you to be patient for now.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes widened in surprise and disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s what he told me as well,¡± she said, her voice


    calm andposed as sheid her hands on the table.


    She had expected this response from him, but hearing it from Summer made her heart sink.


    ¡°I thought you would be difficult to deal with, but you¡¯re much more reasonable than I expected,¡±


    Summer smirked. ¡°Ill be waiting patiently for the day you and Dexter get divorced. Even after your


    divorce, you won¡¯t lose out if you¡¯re on my side. After all, I am the heir to the Olsen fortune.¡±


    She carried herself with an air of arrogance that was expected of a wealthy youngdy.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Josie said, the bitterness of her coffee lingering in her mouth.


    Summer¡¯s affluent family background was her biggest asset, unlike Josie, who had nothing but a sick


    father. Josie had also recently lost her job as the director of the design department. She had epted


    the reality that Summer was a better fit for Dexter than she was and that she had no chance of winning


    against her.


    She would rather live in peace than share the title of ¡°Mrs. Russell.


    After Summer left, Josie returned to Wyatt¡¯s office with a grave expression. ¡°How did it go?¡± Wyatt


    asked, concerned.


    Josie forced a smile. ¡°How else could it go? She couldn¡¯t bite me.¡±


    Wyatt sighed. There have been rumors circting for the past month that..


    ¡°I know,¡± Josie interrupted as she sat on the sofa. ¡°Let¡¯s talk about your situation. Dexter wasn¡¯t


    targeting you. You can still ask him for help, right?¡±


    Wyatt sat down across from her and scowled. Josie, do you remember what Dex said when our


    company became independent? He wanted us to take full authority, so we¡¯ll be held ountable for


    any problems


    we face.


    Josie recalled the conversation. ¡°But he¡¯s your brother.


    ¡°We¡¯re not biologically rted,¡± Wyatt reminded her.


    They shared a knowing look. They didn¡¯t need to say it out loud to know the truth.


    ¡°Tundresand¡± Josie nodded. She walked over in Wyatt and pamed him on the shoulder. Til do my best


    to


    As she turned to leave Wyant called out. ¡°Josie, I¡¯ve abys looked up to Dex as my role model. I wanted


    to


    him. The Revell Family has a rule that you must return home if you fail go back¡±


    her spine She felt even more


    ry for Wyatt when she


    she hadn¡¯t gone against Dester yesterday, be might not have gone to


    his passion and uch lengths.


    After having Wyn¡¯s office, she headed towards the Russell Group Moses approached her cautiously: ¡°1


    besed you were fired.¡±


    Jossed her eyebrows. Do you have to rub it in?¡±


    Moses fell silent, unsure how to respond


    Compared to everything che that was happening, losing her job was rtively minor


    Suddenly, her phone rang. It was Arnold who gave heran address. Come over for lunch¡±


    Ton my way to the Russell Group


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ¡°¡±¡°Visu don¡¯t have to go there anymore

 Chapter 368

    Chapter 368


    Chapter 368 Marriage


    Josie didn¡¯t understand what Arnold meant by his cryptic message, but he assured her she would


    understand when she arrived.


    The restaurant was located in the city center.


    Arnold looked dashing in his gray suit, while Josie¡¯s face was pale and drawn inparison. After he


    ced his order, he pointed at her face and said, ¡°You look exhausted. Please get some rest.¡±


    Josie was exhausted, but she was feeling better than she had this morning. She hadn¡¯t had a chance


    to rest since the chaos broke out.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time to rest,¡± Josie said, her head in her hands.


    Arnold nced down at her blouse, which was slightly exposed, and saw the bruises on her neck. He


    narrowed his eyes and asked, ¡°Did he hit you?¡±


    Josie immediately covered her neck with her hands. ¡°No,¡± she uttered softly.


    Arnold caught on to what had happened. When their food arrived, Arnold helped Josie to cut fter steak


    before handing it to her. ¡°Thank you,¡± she muttered.


    ¡°Why did you call me out here?¡± Josie asked. She knew she shouldn¡¯t be seen with Arnold, as it would


    only anger Dexter further. But after everything that had happened, she didn¡¯t think this would make any


    difference.


    ¡°You¡¯ll know soon enough, Arnold said with a smirk.


    A sweet voice rang out across the room. ¡°Arnold!¡±


    Josie looked up and saw a woman approaching them. Her pale, delicate skin gleamed in the distance,


    and her chestnut brown hair framed her soft features. She wore ts, and her overall appearance was


    gorgeous, exuding an elegant aura.


    Before Josie could start guessing who it was, she noticed the man standing beside the woman.


    He was tall and broad-shouldered, with profound yet cold features. He exuded a unique charisma.


    Derter


    Josie gripped her fork tightly, trying to control the trembling in her hands.


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    They were about to approach their table.


    ¡°Eileen,e over here,¡± Arnold insisted.


    The woman called Eileen met eyes with the man beside her and slowly walked over to their table.


    Arnold grabbed her wrist and pulled her onto hisp.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Josie stared at the man who stood still a few feet away. She took a deep breath and tried to calm her


    racing heart. She could see the corner of his lips lift in a smirk as he turned and walked away.


    Eileen¡¯s voice was soft and gentle. She looked over at Josie and asked, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s voice softened when he spoke to Eileen. ¡°She¡¯s a friend of mine. We bumped into each other


    here and decided to have lunch together. Why are you here today?¡± He ran his fingers through her hair


    as he spoke.


    Josie nodded at Eileen in greeting and continued to eat her steak. Knowing that she looked frail and


    exhausted, she was confident no one would mistake her to be Arnold¡¯s partner.


    Eileen wrapped her arms around Arnold¡¯s neck and whispered, ¡°I wanted to find you, but I saw Dexter


    downstairs, so I decided to have lunch with him instead?¡±


    Her face was pale and soft, like a porcin doll.


    She was undeniably attractive.


    Arnold pinched her waist and smiled. If that¡¯s the case, you can go ahead. Call me when you¡¯re done,


    and I¡¯ll take you home.¡±


    Eileen nodded and gave him a peck on the cheek. As she stood up, Arnold pulled her back and


    passionately kissed her.


    Before Josie could ask any questions, Arnold curtly exined, ¡°She¡¯s Eileen Shaw, the only daughter


    of Nigel Shaw from Laxir Corporation. They¡¯re considering marrying their daughter into the Carter


    Group.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯re going to marry her to save the Carter Group?¡±

 Chapter 369

    Chapter 369


    Chapter 369 Vomit


    ¡°Let¡¯s put this meeting on hold,¡± Arnold said, avoiding her question. ¡°I didn¡¯t know she was friends with


    Dexter.¡±


    After all, it¡¯s unsurprising that a woman of her social standing would know Dexter


    ¡°What about Summer!¡±


    He seemed unfazed as he answered. She¡¯s none of my business anymore¡±


    Josie wouldn¡¯t believe him. ¡°Why did you call me here today!¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t find Dexter at the Russell Group headquarters, but you will find him here.¡±


    So, this was his n all along.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how she would stand up against Dexter. As the CEO, he could fire her from her


    director position at any time. She also had no say in his aggressive actions on the Carter Group.


    She felt a sense of dread in her chest, suffocating her since she met eyes with him.


    Josie felt so anxious that she thought she was going to be sick. ¡°I have to use the restroom,¡± she stood


    up and excused herself.


    There were a few private rooms on the way to the restroom. Josie scanned around but didn¡¯t find


    Eileen or Dexter in any of them.


    Josie sshed some water on her face to wake herself up.


    She looked in the mirror and saw that she looked terrible. Her eyes were dull and lifeless; her skin


    sunken and dry, a clear sign of over-exhaustion. Her appearance was no match for Eileen¡¯s.


    Josie walked out of the washroom, head down, contemting whether to go home and take a rest. She


    was tired, and her head was starting to ache.


    ¡°Ah.¡± Josie bumped into someone¡¯s rock-solid chest and felt her head spinning. She stumbled


    backward but was caught in time by the person¡¯srge, strong hands.


    Josie felt her heart racing in her chest. As she slowly gained footing, her gaze fell on the familiar jaw.


    Her eyes lifted slowly_


    Josie was frightened, and her eyes grew wide. She gazed upon his face with a sense of anxiety


    creeping


    within her.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    The man loomed over her, his voice low and menacing. I see you¡¯re clearly attracted to him, and you¡¯re


    not going to let his willingness to be a bootlicker stop you from getting close to him.¡±


    He sneered as he emphasized the word ¡°bootlicker, dripping with contempt and condescension


    Josie¡¯s face tightened with annoyance, and her pupils red red. She wanted to smack him across the


    face with her bag. ¡°Dexter, that¡¯s enough, she warned through gritted teeth.


    He gripped her wrist tightly and pulled her close, his voice full of venom. ¡°Arnold wants the Laxir


    Corporation to help the Carver Cup, vight? But how much power shoes he have without his shares?


    The won¡¯t be able to marry her right away so this will all be for nothing¡±


    Jose clenched her fists and raised her hands to p Dexter Dexter she cried


    But he was too strong for her


    Jose¡¯s eyes filled with tears


    The realization finally dawned upon her. Dexter¡¯s aim all along was to leave Arnold between a rock and


    a hard ce


    It was either the fall of the Carter Group or Arnold getting married. Either way, Dexter would wis


    A i


    pict scheme to bring fold down


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    He grabbed her wrists and held them tightly


    Josie was quivering with anger, but she didn¡¯t know how Dexter¡¯s heart sank when he saw Arnold


    slicing the steak for her and how she uncharacteristically let her guard down around him.


    Josie tried to break away, but her stomach churnest, and she felt bile rising in her throat. She covered


    her mouth and bent over slightly, her face pale. Dexter¡¯s eyes widened in shock at her sudden behavior


    She quickly dashed towards the restroom and vomited into the sink.


    Dexter followed behind her, his heart swelling as he looked at her in her vulnerable state


    The corner of his mouth turned down in a grimace as he watches Josje retch into the sink. He wanted


    to reach out andfort her, but his hands hovered in the air, frozen He didn¡¯t have the right to touch


    her


    anymore.


    Josie felt better after a while. She turned on the faucet to wash her hands, and as she lifted her eyes,


    she met the indiscemible gaze of the man who had followed her inside. ¡°Why


    Josie lifted the corner of her lips. ¡°Why are you here!¡±


    The man¡¯s lips quivered. Josie felt her heart stop, and her vision shed ck. She copsed to the


    floor, unconscious


    ¡°Jostel¡± he shouted.

 Chapter 370

    Chapter 370


    Chapter 370 Fainting


    Josie never expected to see Manhew under these conces


    He was dressed in


    his al professional and gro?e demes her stomach Does it will hurt here?


    gely pressed


    it Seeing her wak


    art.


    Nitti, Josie felt embarrassed. She raised her swim to cover her eyes and spoke in


    Seeing him, Josie


    Matthew¡¯s expression stiffened as


    tiffened as he nced at the


    nced at the m waiting outside the ward. Dexter¡¯s eyes were dark and imprable, making it difficult


    to discern his thoughts


    In a low voice, Matthew advised. You fainted because of exhaustion, and your body is too weak. You


    need su take better care of yourself. The vomiting was likely caused by irregr eating habits recently


    prescribe some medicine for you. Rest well and stick to a light diet¡±


    As Matthew turned to leave, Josie grabbed the edge of his clothes and asked, ¡°Matthew, when can I


    leave here


    She still had an TV drip attached to her wrist.


    Just one more bottle of nutrition. ¡°he adjusted the drip speed for her while asking. ¡°What happened?


    Did something go wrong?¡±


    Josie forced a smile and nodded, ¡°Since you¡¯ve examined me, you should be able to guess what


    happened


    The scar on her waist remained, not fully healed yet.


    She deliberately didn¡¯t use the ointment given by Lao Sun. She wanted to remember this shame on her


    OMIL


    Manhew pursed his lips. Just now, he saw Dexter rush in carrying her. Matthew was startled by the


    terrifying darkness that filled in his eyes.


    He unbuttoned Josie¡¯s clothes and saw bruises, kiss marks, and the scar on her waist, piecing together


    the general picture.


    Dexter¡¯s voice resonated from above, ¡°Matthew, you¡¯re her friend. Can I trust you?¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Ignoring the bitterness creeping in him, Matthew simply nodded.


    Arnold and Eileen followed along. If he hadn¡¯t seen it with his own eyes, Arnold wouldn¡¯t have believed


    the man that acted so ruthlessly in the market was the same man that anxiously carried Jose to the


    hospital


    Let¡¯s go. Arnold pinched the woman¡¯s soft and delicate hand, his eyes distant and ethereal ¡°Les them


    solve their own problems, okay?¡±


    Eileen¡¯s eyes were amber, resembling a car¡¯s ¡°Alright¡±


    ¡°Will you be working overtime tonight? Dad wants us to go home for dinner


    She held onto Arnold¡¯s hands Sensing the coldness in his eyes, she looked at him pleadingly


    Revealing a distant smile on his face, he caressed her chestnut-colored hair ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll send you home


    first.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll ¡°Then I wait for you at home, and we can go togetherter


    Arnold epted the arrangemem. Don¡¯t tire yourself out. Rest well.¡±


    After resting for a while. Josie thought everyone had left She finally removed her arm from her eyes


    and opened them slightly. To her surprise, she saw a man standing beside her bed, his expression at


    cofil as wearing intently at her


    Josie revealed a startled expression but quickly regained herposure, looking indifferent.


    Dexter, as if guessing her thoughts, calmly spoke, ¡°You were the one who kept holding onto my


    clothes, not allowing me to leave


    Josie was taken aback, and seeing his unwavering expression, she realized he wasn¡¯t joking


    ¡°Thank you, her expression unchanged. ¡°But I don¡¯t need you here anymore.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow slightly. ¡°Are you biting the hand that saved you?


    Josie felt annoyed. She detested his mocking tone and besides, if it weren¡¯t for him, she might not have


    fainted in the first ce.


    She turned around to leave, but after taking just a couple of steps, she noticed that the needle she had


    just pulled out caused a sudden gush of blood, covering her hands. Startled by the blood, the man


    hurriedly approached, taking her to the bathroom to clean up before calling Matthew inside.


    Josie impatiently struggled, saying. ¡°Let go of me.¡±


    He forcefully pressed her back onto the bed, revealing a wave of hidden anger. ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±

 Chapter 371

    Chapter 371


    Chapter 371 Exploiting Marriage for Publicity


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Josie was temporarily subdued by his intimidating temper, and she had no choice but to calm down


    Matthew came in to help Josie with the wound, but when he tried to continue the drip, she forcefully


    pulled her hand back and said in a rigid tone, ¡°Matt, sorry, but I feel like I¡¯m fine now. I want to leave the


    hospital immediately.


    Matthew instinctively looked at Dexter, as if he was inquiring his opinion.


    He now understood that Josie¡¯s decision would be irrelevant when Dexter was there.


    Josie stared back at the man obstinately. ¡°I have many things to do. I¡¯m not as fragile and dramatic as


    Mr. Russell thinks.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze turned cold as he replied, ¡°Sure, but I guess that as soon as you step outside, you¡¯ll start


    vomiting and faint again¡±


    Josie kept silent because she indeed still had the urge to vomit.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost your job. What else is there for you to be busy with?¡±


    This remark made Josie re at him, her beady eyes aze with fury, and the tense atmosphere


    persisted. Matthew intervened, trying to defuse the situation. Josie, there¡¯s no rush. It won¡¯t hurt to


    finish the drip before leaving the hospital.¡±


    Seeing that Josie had stopped moving, he took the opportunity to reinsert the needle into her vein. The


    sudden pain made Josie involuntarily groan.


    A dark bruise formed where the needle had just been inserted.


    She didn¡¯t notice, but at the same time, Dexter furrowed his brow, his reproachful gaze falling on


    Matthew.


    For the rest of the time, Josiey back on the bed, closed her eyes, and pretended to sleep. She didn¡¯t


    want to see or speak to the man in her room.


    Her phone kept vibrating in her pocket, but she didn¡¯t dare answer it.


    ¡°Why, are you feeling annoyed? ¡°An intimate breath suddenly washed over her as warm fingertips


    touched her face, slithering like a venomous snake. She couldn¡¯t help but tremble. You¡¯ve been with


    me for so long, yet you still don¡¯t know how to handle unexpected events.¡±


    Sure enough, it was him! She thought


    He knew that Bryce would deliberately do this


    The man¡¯srge hand suddenly withdrew, and his voice turned cold. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a suggestion. Go to


    the media now and announce our marriage. Perhaps Carter Group will be saved.


    The news of the mysterious woman married to Dexter being Josie would undoubtedly cause a


    sensation. By using the media, public opinion would be pushed to a climax.


    After a long period of silence that felt like half a century, Josie finally opened her eyes. She responded


    sharply, ¡°Unlike you, I don¡¯t resort to using marriage as a publicity stunt¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression remained cold, without a trace of emotion.


    ¡°Anyone in the whole world, but you can say that I¡¯ve married you for a publicity stunt.¡±


    She stiffened.


    He took out his phone, answered a call, and then walked out of the ward. His cold and ruthless figure


    seemed to be telling her that his presence in the hospital meant ast chance for her, but since she


    didn¡¯t ept it, he no longer needed to show any mercy.


    He couldn¡¯t see it, but when he mentioned publicly announcing their marriage to the media, a dark


    cloud descended over her eyes.


    Once the news of Dexter¡¯s marriage was exposed, it meant that all the protection he had given her


    before would no longer exist.


    Josie took a deep breath, unsure what to make of the suffocating feeling deep in her heart.


    She scrolled through her contacts for a long time but couldn¡¯t find a suitable person. Finally, she


    hesitantly called Laura, who was surprised when she picked up the phone. ¡°Josie?¡±


    ¡°Can youe to the hospital to pick me up?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe that in the vast city of Wavery, she didn¡¯t have a trustworthy friend to rely on.


    Every person she had known for so long had some connection to Dexter.


    Not long after, Laura appeared in the VIP ward and was startled to see Josie covered in injuries. ¡°Wow,


    where did you get into a fight?¡±

 Chapter 372

    Chapter 372


    Chapter 372 He Thought You Were Pregnant


    Josie didn¡¯t say much, her face turning pale and unsightly.


    As she was leaving the hospital, she ran into Matthew. It seemed that Dexter had already left, and


    Matthew stood with his hands in his pockets, saying casually, ¡°He thought you were pregnant.¡±


    The man, who had always been calm andposed, had shown signs of panic not long ago. However,


    when he heard that it was only due to a stomach issue causing the vomiting, his disappointment was


    evident. He awkwardly asked Matthew, ¡°No need for an ultrasound?¡±


    Matthew was momentarily stunned. ¡°Oh, no need. It¡¯s just a stomach issue.¡±


    Matthew didn¡¯t dare to look at Dexter¡¯s expression. He already knew that the man¡¯s love for Josie had


    reached a certain level-a level where he wanted to have a child with her.


    ¡°I only faintly heard some rumors about you two. What happened? Did you and Dexter have a fight?¡±


    Laura asked as Josie sat in the passenger seat of the car.


    Josie took out her phone and scrolled through her call history, most of which were calls from her


    colleagues at work. ¡°He maliciously attacked the Carter Group, not even sparing Bryce.¡±


    Laura nced at her. ¡°Summer has been looking for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Miss Olsen that looks so pure and innocent. If I were a man, I would also fall for her charm.


    ¡°Josie selectively replied to some text messages, including one from Alice.


    ¡°From the looks of it, you¡¯re going to be on the opposite side of Dexter, ¡°Laura said.


    ¡°I have no choice. Josie knew she didn¡¯t have the power to resist, so she could only do her best. Then,


    she suddenly remembered and asked, ¡°Is Summer the sessor of the Olsen family? Why isn¡¯t it Zach


    Olsen?¡±


    At the mention of this, Laura¡¯s expression darkened slightly. ¡°You don¡¯t know, do you? The Olsen family


    favors their daughters, especially their youngest daughter. Plus, Zach¡¯s abilities aren¡¯t outstanding


    enough. Everyone assumes that Summer will be the future sessor.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s strange. Usually, it¡¯s the eldest son who inherits the family business. The Olsen family doesn¡¯t


    seem to have favoritism over male descendants.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a hidden story behind it, ¡°Laura said, not borating further.


    Alice received Josie¡¯s reply and immediately called her. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why did they fire you just


    like that? Did you go talk to the boss?¡±


    Not only did she not talk to him, but she also had a fight with the ¡°boss.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s just a job. I won¡¯t starve.¡±


    Seeing Josie¡¯s nonchnt attitude, Alice was puzzled. ¡°This isn¡¯t like you, Josie. Did you read today¡¯s


    financial news?¡±


    ¡°¡­Yeah.¡±


    He Thought You Were Pregnant


    ¡°It has nothing to do with you, right?¡±


    Josie felt guilty for a moment. ¡°What¡­ What does it have to do with me?¡±


    ¡°You scared me. I thought there might be some connection between the two. I¡¯ve overheard two of the


    managers talking in the pantry today, and they mentioned that the amount a foreignpany was


    offering to acquire the Bryce team is between one billion and two billion.¡±


    Josie almost choked on her own saliva. ¡°Is that true?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I heard, but I¡¯m not sure either. Why do you look so surprised?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing. Thank you, Alice. Please keep an eye on the design department. ¡°Josie gave her


    instructions and hung up the phone. She then told Laura, ¡°Take me to Bryce¡¯s ce.¡±


    Laura turned the steering wheel. ¡°Okay.¡±


    After Bryce got married, his personality became much more subdued, which made Josie somewhat


    unustomed. ¡°Is everything alright at the Olsen family?¡±


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask.


    It seemed that things weren¡¯t going well.


    Josie put away her curiosity and decided to drop the subject. She told Bryce about the approximate


    amount of the acquisition. He was ted. ¡°This is crucial for us. Knowing the approximate amount


    gives us a way to deal with it.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°How about I stay and face it together with you? After all, Dexter has fired me, and I have


    nothing to do now.¡±

 Chapter 373

    Chapter 373


    Chapter 373 Food Delivery


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a good idea.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already made up my mind.¡±


    Although Josie knew nothing about finance, she decided to stay and assist the team members


    voluntarily without receiving any sry.


    From that day on, she started receiving frequent anonymous food deliveries.


    The team was busy, and Josie practically lived in the office. Whenever she felt tired, she would take a


    nap on the sofa and wake up to find her colleagues arriving. She would immediately start the morning


    meeting, and it was at this time that the food delivery would arrive like clockwork. Breakfast consisted


    of porridge and side dishes, enough for everyone in the office.


    Although it was nothing fancy, the food tasted surprisingly delicious-refreshing and vorful. Everyone


    praised the food one after another, assuming that Josie had ordered the delivery.


    Little did they know that with just one bite, Josie could tell it was the skilled cooking of the head chef


    from Mason Garden.


    She remembered the cold expression of the man at the hospital yesterday, and with a crisp sound, she


    forcefully put down the small spoon and stopped eating.


    But the food deliveries didn¡¯t stop at breakfast. Lunch and dinner arrived punctually, and there would


    even be afternoon tea after lunch, apanied by a bouquet of flowers, as well as medicine and


    ointments, all exquisitely prepared.


    Josie expressed her thoughts through her actions. She did not touch the food once and poured it all


    into the trash can.


    The person responsible for delivering the meals had a bitter expression and quietly said to her, ¡°Madam


    Russell, if you don¡¯t eat, I won¡¯t be able to exin it when I go back. Mr. Russell will be unhappy with


    me¡­


    It was the same trick again. Josie thought. She stubbornly continued to do as she pleased.


    As time went on, not only did the employees notice the situation, but even Bryce asked, ¡°Is there a man


    pursuing you, Josie?¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking this.¡±


    She really wanted to scold that man. Her finger hovered over the dial pad, but she couldn¡¯t press any


    numbers.


    She didn¡¯t return to Mason Garden. If she really needed a ce to spend the night, she would go to the


    hospital and sleep on the sofa in her father¡¯s ward.


    The next day, Josie waste. As she was leaving, she thought that she must have missed breakfast.


    However, when she opened the door, the delivery person was standing outside the ward.


    Josie felt like cursing.


    ¡°When are you all going to stop monitoring me? ¡°she eximed without looking back.


    The delivery person wore a bitter expression. ¡°Mrs. Russell, we¡¯re just following orders.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t even turn her head. ¡°Go back and tell your boss that if he really wants me to eat, he should


    come and deliver it himself.¡±


    After informing Bryce about the acquisition amount, Josie began discussing her own n with Arnold. ¡°I


    received reliable information that the funds they are using for the acquisition range from ten to twenty


    billion. In the short term, Bryce has very limited funds avable, and there will be a shortfall of around


    ten billion.¡±


    After a brief pause, she continued, ¡°I want to borrow this money from you. Bryce has agreed to use all


    his Russell family shares as coteral.


    On the other end, Arnold was apanying Eileen to make mango mousse. His hands were covered


    in flour, and he had put his phone on speaker mode on the table.


    He remained silent for a long time, and even Eileen, an outsider, could sense the urgency in the


    woman¡¯s voice on the other end of the call.


    After finally finishing with the flour, Arnold put it aside and washed his hands before saying, ¡°Using the


    majority of your shares as coteral and winning the battle, achievingplete victory. Have you


    thought about what will happen if the counter-acquisition fails?¡±


    He spoke lightly, ¡°Once it fails, it won¡¯t be as simple as losing everything. Bryce won¡¯t be able to repay


    these debts in his lifetime. And if I backstab you andpete with the acquiring party, you will soon


    be a part of my assets.


    ¡°Is it worth it, Josie? Have you thought it through?¡±


    me¡­


    It was the same trick again. Josie thought. She stubbornly continued to do as she pleased.


    As time went on, not only did the employees notice the situation, but even Bryce asked, ¡°Is there a man


    pursuing you, Josie?¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking this.¡±


    She really wanted to scold that man. Her finger hovered over the dial pad, but she couldn¡¯t press any


    numbers.


    She didn¡¯t return to Mason Garden. If she really needed a ce to spend the night, she would go to the


    hospital and sleep on the sofa in her father¡¯s ward.


    The next day, Josie waste. As she was leaving, she thought that she must have missed breakfast.


    However, when she opened the door, the delivery person was standing outside the ward.


    Josie felt like cursing.


    ¡°When are you all going to stop monitoring me? ¡°she eximed without looking back.


    The delivery person wore a bitter expression. ¡°Mrs. Russell, we¡¯re just following orders.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t even turn her head. ¡°Go back and tell your boss that if he really wants me to eat, he should


    come and deliver it himself.¡±


    After informing Bryce about the acquisition amount, Josie began discussing her own n with Arnold. ¡°I


    received reliable information that the funds they are using for the acquisition range from ten to twenty


    billion. In the short term, Bryce has very limited funds avable, and there will be a shortfall of around


    ten billion.¡±


    After a brief pause, she continued, ¡°I want to borrow this money from you. Bryce has agreed to use all


    his Russell family shares as coteral.


    On the other end, Arnold was apanying Eileen to make mango mousse. His hands were covered


    in flour, and he had put his phone on speaker mode on the table.All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    He remained silent for a long time, and even Eileen, an outsider, could sense the urgency in the


    woman¡¯s voice on the other end of the call.


    After finally finishing with the flour, Arnold put it aside and washed his hands before saying, ¡°Using the


    majority of your shares as coteral and winning the battle, achievingplete victory. Have you


    thought about what will happen if the counter-acquisition fails?¡±


    He spoke lightly, ¡°Once it fails, it won¡¯t be as simple as losing everything. Bryce won¡¯t be able to repay


    these debts in his lifetime. And if I backstab you andpete with the acquiring party, you will soon


    be a part of my assets.


    ¡°Is it worth it, Josie? Have you thought it through?¡±

 Chapter 374

    Chapter 374


    Chapter 374 Thwarting Dexter¡¯s Schemes


    Exercise caution when interacting with him.


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    While Eileen remained oblivious to their rtionship, her intuition nudged that Arnold had a genuine


    affinity for this woman.


    Josie¡¯s silence encapsted the weight of desperation, a silent plea amid her risky gamble.


    ¡°I¡­ I won¡¯t allow Dexter to have it his way.¡±


    She wouldn¡¯t hold back after he had mercilessly crushed her dignity.


    The vtile economic state in the current market and the financial constraints from the Carter Group


    had left Josie in a predicament. Yet, she refused to let Dexter im victory and turn her into a mockery.


    Arnold offered another suggestion, ¡°You know your husband better than anyone. Since he started


    targeting Carter Group, the Russell Group has been in disarray. You could advise Wyatt to sell the


    company at a good price and venture into a new industry with the funds. Who knows, it might lead to a


    better oue.¡±


    Josie immediately refuted the suggestion and asserted, ¡°No way. This is Wyatt¡¯s first venture, and he


    will never agree to bankruptcy or selling it.¡±


    She was determined to face any situation with Wyatt.


    Arnold¡¯s brow slightly furrowed as he asked, ¡°Are you doing this for Wyatt, or is it about your personal


    vendetta against Dexter?¡±


    Josie clenched her fist, her eyes darting elsewhere.


    Eileen was peeling a mango with a firm grip on the knife when Arnold abruptly snatched the knife and


    therge mango from her.


    She pursed her lips and wrapped her arms around his waist. Arnold kissed her forehead and then


    turned to Josic, who was still waiting, and said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve made up your mind, bring the contract


    ande to my house to sign.¡±


    ¡°Your house?¡±


    Arnold blurted out his address and said, ¡°Eileen is feeling a bit under the weather, so I¡¯m staying home


    with her.


    Josie nodded and replied. ¡°Yes, it is getting colder.¡±


    There was a momentary pause in the conference room as Dexter sneezed.


    After the project team dispersed, Ivy entered the room with a stack of photos and began, ¡°Sir¡­¡±


    Dexter casually closed hisptop, stretching his long fingers, and a photo fell from his grasp. Ivy peered


    at the barren autumn through the windows, shivering in the cold.

 Chapter 375

    Chapter 375


    Chapter 375 My Heart Belongs Elsewhere


    A wave of dismay washed over Josic, and the fleeting excitement dissipated. The contract in her hands


    now felt like a sizzling hot te, too precarious to handle. Lost for words, she stammered. ¡°This¡­¡±


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    This could be serious if caught red-handedly.


    Arnold shrugged it off, ¡°If things go wrong. Eileen will step in.¡±


    Has she been used?


    Josie was stunned for a while. ¡°She seems to like you a lot,¡± she finally murmured.


    Arnold remained indifferent, slowly capped his pen, and answered coldly. ¡°My heart belongs to


    someone else.¡±


    Josie chose not to probe further. ¡°It seems I have no choice but to go all out, even if it means risking


    everything for this billion-dor deal.¡±


    The room fell into a long and deep silence.


    A gentle rapping on the study door broke the silence as Eileen¡¯s soothing voice chimed in, ¡°Are you


    finished? The mousse is ready to be served.¡±


    A gentle smile etched on Arnold¡¯s lips as he cordially invited Josic, ¡°Stay and have a meal before you


    go.¡± Arnold¡¯s mood changes rapidly and dramatically, disying an intense and unpredictable


    temperament. Taking a moment to observe her surroundings, she paused and appreciated the house¡¯s


    spotless cleanliness and meticulous arrangement. The prevalence of pink-colored items throughout


    added an undeniable touch of adorableness and charm.


    Wyatt was shocked after signing the contract and immediately questioned Josie about the source of the


    money. Without hesitation, Josie disclosed all the details.


    Wyatt¡¯s skepticism dissipated, and he enquired, ¡°Josic, how did you and Arnold meet?¡±


    ¡­ in some unexpected circumstances.¡±


    Without prying further, Wyatt asked curtly, ¡°Did he send those meals and flowers?¡±


    Josie¡¯s agitation grew as she gazed at the freshly delivered bouquet of roses.


    She deliberately tossed the bouquet into the trash bin and said nonchntly, ¡°The news of Arnold¡¯s


    rumored engagement to a wealthy heiress is causing quite amotion. You¡¯re reading too much into


    it.¡±


    Her eyes caught sight of a card nestled among the blooms. Her mind flickered, momentarily enticed to


    reach out and uncover its secrets. But she restrained herself, resisting the urge to pick it up and


    uncover its


    secrets.


    Josie inadvertently left herptop in Mason Garden as she left hastily after the meal.


    Lost in her thoughts, she checked the time and assumed Dexter would still be engaged in the meeting


    discussing the Carter Group.


    She drove off hurriedly in Wyatt¡¯s car. As a foreign vehicle approached Mason Garden, the security


    guards were prepared to intercept it. However, their surprise grew as the car window lowered to reveal


    Josie. They eximed, ¡°Madam¡­¡±


    Josie made a conscious effort to park her car discreetly, but despite her best intentions, she was


    inevitably


    discovered.


    The wistful dusk of autumn awakens a sense of solitude.


    Josie handed the car keys to the servant and stood by the staircase leading to Mason Garden¡¯s interior.


    She nced at the servant and innocently asked, ¡°Can I go upstairs to get something?¡±


    The servant looked bewildered and answered, ¡°Madam, you don¡¯t need to ask me.¡±


    She is Mrs. Russell, after all.


    Josie chuckled wryly as she hurried upstairs, finding the master bedroom untouched. The balcony


    revealed the pitiful state of the neglected potted nts, their soil dry and foliage on the verge of wilting.


    Josie nced around, unable to find herputer in its usual spot. She searched fruitlessly,


    considering going downstairs to look for it. Suddenly, a solemn andmanding voice trailed along the


    corridor. ¡°Why does Mrs. Russell sneak around like a thief when returning home?¡±


    Josie stood still as she peered down to see Dexter seated on the sofa downstairs. His gaze held a


    mischievous allure, and a cold smile graced his lips.


    Josie felt a chill run down her spine as fear and embarrassment enveloped her.


    Had he been there all this time?

 Chapter 376

    Chapter 376


    Chapter 376 Fever


    She closed her eyes momentarily and met his gaze. ¡°I returned to retrieve my belongings,¡± she stated


    firmly.


    Dexter ascended the stairs and stopped before her. ¡°Just tell me what you need, and I¡¯ll bring it to you,¡±


    he assured sinctly. There was a menacing intensity in his gaze.


    Josie trembled as he drew closer but shook off the tremor and asserted, ¡°Myptop.¡±


    ¡°Where are your keys?¡±


    Little did she know that Dexter was informed of her arrival in Mason Garden.


    Her head throbbed, and she retorted. Forget about it.¡±


    As she turned, her wrist was seized. ¡°Mason Garden isn¡¯t a ce you can simply stroll in as you like,¡± a


    voice chided.


    The grip on her wrist was intense. Her body lurched backward and fell into Dexter¡¯s arms. It was a


    moment frozen in time.


    Dexter was slightly agitated as Josie¡¯splexion grew unusually pale.


    The creases on his forehead deepened as he swiftly carried her, carefully cing her onto the soft


    mattress in the master bedroom. Josie¡¯s mind raced as the haunting memories of that fateful night


    resurfaced. ¡°Get out!¡± she roared.


    She wrestled against his grasp, but he held her hand firmly. He scorned. ¡°I have no intention of having


    sex with a sick woman.¡±


    Josie¡¯s initial shock subsided, but an underlying difort persisted.


    Dexter rose abruptly, pacing the bedroom before swiftly going down the stairs.


    Josie crumpled onto the soft bed as the balcony door clicked shut, catching whiffs of his lingering scent


    that danced in her nostrils. Her head spun relentlessly as if being pulled into a swirling vortex.


    A pang of regret washed over her for not taking the medicine that Dexter had sent earlier. The drip¡¯s


    efficacy had faded away.


    With a pounding headache and sore eyes, Josie realized she might being down with a cold. Her


    eyelids were heavy, and she slowly drifted away to sleep.


    Dexter hurriedly fetched the medical kit and found Josie curled up and asleep. He shook her in panic,


    Josie, wake up.¡±


    ¡°Josie, open up,¡± said Dexter as he slid a thermometer into her mouth.


    Half asleep, Josieplied.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes briefly flickered to her wrist, where scars from the previous injection were still visible.


    No more needles for her.


    Dexter gingerly prepared and administered the medicine to her as her brows furrowed in bitterness.


    Julie came into the room with a bowl of hot soup and carefully served, ¡°Sir, here you go.¡±


    Dexter gently wiped Josie¡¯s mouth with a tissue and muttered, ¡°Leave it.¡°


    Josie felt his every gesture was tender and delicate, as if she were his most cherished treasure.


    ¡°Dexter¡­¡± she murmured faintly.


    ¡°Yes.


    ¡°Did you spend time with Summer this past month just to make me jealous?¡±


    It was a presumptuous question, but Josie mustered the courage to address the pressing question.


    Fully aware of its potential implications, she had genuine intentions and earnestly sought a path


    forward for their struggling marriage.


    Dexter put down the bowl and said indifferently. ¡°Do you want to hear the truth?¡±


    Her heart sank.


    ¡°Not entirely.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    So, he had ulterior motives with Summer.

 Chapter 377

    Chapter 377


    Chapter 377 ept the Defeat


    Josie was finally awake.


    ¡°The Olsen family has their eyes on you now,¡± Dexter said wearily, and his eye bags weighed on, ¡°I


    must do something about this.¡±


    There was anguish in his voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s all for me, right?¡±


    The evening¡¯s golden hues streaked into the bedroom, glowing on Josie¡¯splexion. Her eyes


    sparkled like radiant jewels.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze lingered, his expression distant and unfocused.


    ¡°Is that how you see it? To protect me?¡± Josie¡¯s voice trembled, and her frustration simmered. ¡°I can


    look after myself, Dexter. You don¡¯t have to sacrifice yourself to protect me.¡±


    ¡°Josie, Dexter¡¯s voice turned sharp as he looked her in the eye. ¡°Do you truly believe you can handle


    this on your own? You¡¯re only confident because Arnold is there to support you. Take him out of the


    equation, and what are you left with?¡±


    Josie was aghast, but it was the truth ¨C what would she do without Arnold?


    ¡°Arnold never meant to help you anyways.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words pierced through Josie once again. However, she couldn¡¯t reveal that Arnold had lent her


    billions of dors for the project.


    ¡°Dexter, I can¡¯t help but question your sincerity. It seems like everything you do is motivated by self-


    interest. And please, let¡¯s not even get started on Arnold.¡±


    His face hardened, and he let out a cold, mockingugh.


    The phone buzzed and interrupted the tension in the room. Dexter swiftly answered, ¡°Go ahead, speak,


    as his eyes lingered on Josie.


    ¡°Mr. Hudson took the highway as expected. The checkpoint was guarded by numerous officers,


    resulting in the exposure of the entire truck¡¯s cargo.¡±


    Hudson? He¡¯s with Arnold. Her face nched with a sinking realization.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes remained fixed on her. ¡°Arnold seems to think I would be waiting for them on the


    highway.¡±


    ¡°This is quite strategic of you. Closing down Arnold¡¯s nightclubs will make this summer a tough one for


    him.¡±


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Chill ran down her spine as she listened.


    No way-Dexter had it all under his thumb.


    Josie swiftly got out of bed, her breath quickening. Dexter ended the call and watched her somberly as


    she


    hurriedlyposed herself. Josie confronted him, ¡°Did you ever think about Wyatt when executing


    these ns? He¡¯s your brother and yed a role in the Russell Group. How could you let him be


    the scapegoat?¡±


    ¡°I can tame even the wildest beasts,¡± Dexter reiterated.


    ¡°So, you could do whatever you want.¡±


    Dexter remained silent as he brought theptop upstairs and ced it before her.


    ¡°Are you sure you wanna leave?¡± he said condescendingly.


    Josie snatched theptop, her eyes shing with contempt. ¡°Jerk!¡± she spat, turning on her heels and


    storming downstairs, Dexter¡¯s warning was brushed aside as she drove away in Wyatt¡¯s car.


    She tried calling Arnold, but there was no answer. Dexter¡¯s cunning tactics had cornered Arnold,


    forcing him to choose between his marriage and the Carter group.


    Arnold finally returned Josie¡¯s calls. The days followed were filled with relentless dedication as she


    poured her resources into supporting Wyatt, preparing for the impending battle..

 Chapter 378

    Chapter 378


    Chapter 378 Crashed


    The meals were still sent on time but without flowers.


    Josie had a few consecutive meetings. She discussed with Wyatt and overseas leaders the list of


    employees toy off. Thepany¡¯s articles of association were also amended, which gave them more


    protection from the reverse takeover.


    They thought the reverse takeover meeting went well, but no one expected that Wyatt¡¯s stocks would


    hit the limit down price the next day. Josie quickly sensed something unusual after learning for the past


    few days. ¡°Check if the overseaspany dumped their stocks.¡±


    Her colleagues quickly confirmed her theory.


    After pondering calmly, Josie guessed that Dexter didn¡¯t know she had one billion as assistance from


    Arnold. If Arnold didn¡¯t tell Dexter about it¡­ she had a loophole.


    They were short-selling.


    She immediately informed Wyatt¡¯s trader. ¡°Keep an eye on the stock market. We will buy as many


    stocks as the overseaspany dumps.¡±


    The trader was hesitant to go up against them so forcefully. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    She had no way out.


    The overseaspany and Wyatt kept selling and buying shares for the next few days. The stock


    market was steady, and it also instilled confidence in most of the stock investors. When the stock


    market closed this week, the overseaspany had dumped five billion in stocks. They shorted all of


    Wyatt¡¯s outstanding shares. Although he was in heavy debt, he had won the battle.


    Wyatt¡¯s team stared at the exact numbers and breathed a sigh of relief. Someone hit the table, and the


    entire office was fired up.


    Property of N?)(velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Josie looked at the rising and falling numbers on theputer screen. They had salvaged the


    situation. The worry she had in her heart disappeared.


    Thankfully. Thankfully they didn¡¯t know Josie had one billion from Arnold. She had managed to defeat


    them¡­


    But Wyatt sent over a stack of report forms and seemed to have much on his mind. ¡°If the stocks


    continue to fall when the market opens next week, we will lose everything.¡±


    Josie looked up. ¡°They don¡¯t have any funds left, and the market is stable. How can it fall?¡±


    Wyatt still felt uneasy, but he nodded. ¡°I hope so.¡±


    Josie sensed his worry. She hadplicated feelings and joked, ¡°You¡¯ll treat us to a meal next week if


    everything goes well, right, Mr. Wyatt?¡±


    Someone in the office immediately eximed. ¡°I second that!¡±


    Wyatt smiled. ¡°Of course.¡±


    The stock market was calm the following week. Economists¡¯ predictions failed, and the overseas


    company was silent. They were under much suspicion.


    Wyatt finally calmed down and told his team to choose a restaurant. Josie smiled. ¡°I won¡¯t join you. I¡¯m


    going to meet Arnold and personally thank him.¡±


    Arnold also received the news and looked for her on his own ord. ¡°Don¡¯t celebrate yet. Wait for it to


    stabilize


    Josie didn¡¯t care. Before she could refute it, she was suddenly interrupted by Wyatt¡¯s call. She said,


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take this. It¡¯s from thepany.¡±


    When she answered the call, Wyatt¡¯s tense voice was heard. ¡°It¡¯s over¡­ The stocks suddenly fell¡­ We


    crashed.¡±


    They were in a crisis now, and his voice trembled.


    Josie suddenly froze and stood on the spot. Her eyes widened. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    The Russell Group building stood tall and mighty behind her, but it was as though the building would.


    copse at the next second.


    It was a capitalistic dream.


    Josie frantically rushed to the office and was met with Wyatt¡¯s defeated gaze. ¡°We really crashed.¡±


    It was as though Josie had been hit. She felt slightly dizzy. She was unprepared for such a situation.

 Chapter 379

    Chapter 379


    Chapter 379 You¡¯re Vicious


    Her ears buzzed when she looked at the numbers that had fallen dramatically. She opened her mouth


    in a daze. ¡°How much did each stock lose?¡±


    Such a brutal bolt from the blue threw everyone off their feet.


    Wyatt said, ¡°Continue buying


    Josie gritted her teeth. She said reluctantly, ¡°But we¡­. have no funds left.¡±


    They couldn¡¯t do anything to retaliate¡­


    Wyatt shook his head in disbelief. ¡°No. Didn¡¯t they say it¡¯s only two billion?!¡±


    They quickly realized thatst week¡¯s closely-fought battle on the market was only a smoke screen¡­..


    There was a shellpany on the surface, and anotherpany was secretly buying stocks before


    short-selling it today¡­.


    They were deceived¡­.


    The funds they had purchased were far more than two billion¡­


    Josie was no longer in the mood to think about whether Alice had tricked her or if someone had taken


    advantage of Alice.


    She had been dealt a heavy blow. It hurt, but it sobered her up.


    Someone rushed in and said to Wyatt, ¡°Let¡¯s liquidate¡­ If we dy¡­¡­¡­¡±


    If they dumped their stocks now, outsiders would take advantage and buy them cheaply. After that, if


    there were no position in the market with the shares they had, Wyatt wouldn¡¯t even be able to file for


    bankruptcy¡­


    No matter what, Wyatt had lost the battle in the financial world.


    Not only Wyatt but also Josie.


    Someone had deceived her and taught her a lesson. It was like a p in her face.


    Josie¡¯s personal cell phone rang at this time. She was startled. It was an unknown caller. She slowly


    answered the call.


    The buzzing in her ear continued, but the man¡¯s cold voice was distinct. ¡°How do you feel?¡±


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It was you.¡± Josie was expressionless, but it was what she had expected. Her knuckles turned white


    as she held her cell phone. ¡°You¡¯re despicable.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re na?ve.¡± Dexter snorted coldly and ruthlessly. It was as though he was disciplining a rebellious


    teenager. ¡°Didn¡¯t Arnold teach you? When I started the tug of war with you in the market, you should


    have guessed it wasn¡¯t as simple as a hostile takeover, but you poured in all your capital. That was


    stupid.¡±


    His straightforward yet taunting words swirled in her mind. Josie shut her eyes forcefully and slowly


    crouched down. She tried hard to calm her breathing.


    She was a joke to him.


    You¡¯re Vicious


    Someone stormed into the office and suddenly said, ¡°Stop buying. Liquidate!¡±


    Wyatt nced at him and signaled for him to leave. After that, Wyatt walked to Josie and wrinkled his


    brows as he made a suggestion. ¡°Is there a way for Arnold to continue giving us¡­¡±


    Before he finished his sentence, the voice in Josie¡¯s cell phone was fired up. His voice was cold and


    dangerous. ¡°You must not know I¡¯m now ying chess with Eileen Shaw¡¯s father from Laxir.¡±


    Theirst hope was gone.


    Josie already knew what she and Arnold had to face in the future other than today¡¯s terrible situation.


    She chewed on her fingernails and gritted her teeth as she said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re vicious.¡±


    After a minute, Dexter¡¯s emotionless voice was heard. ¡°Not as vicious as you, Josie Warren.¡±


    She was dumbfounded.


    ¡°If you understood me better and didn¡¯t look for Arnold, or if you stopped thinking of escaping, such a


    thing wouldn¡¯t have happened today.¡±


    ¡°If you had epted my flowers or even hesitated to nce at them, you would have realized that my


    detailed ns of what I would do to Carter Group were written on the card in the flowers. If you looked


    at it, you could have turned the tide.¡±

 Chapter 380

    Chapter 380


    Chapter 380 Don¡¯t Do Anything Silly


    ¡°Do you think I wanted to make a move against you? It¡¯s your fault. You disappointed me. You didn¡¯t


    even look at the flowers before you threw them into the trash.¡±


    The call suddenly ended.


    The dial tone rang in Josie¡¯s ears.


    She felt cold.


    Wyatt reached out to pull her up, and she held on to his arms tightly. Her legs felt slightly numb, and


    her gaze was empty.


    At that moment, in Laxir¡¯s chairman¡¯s office.


    Mr. Shaw instructed people to keep the chess set. He poured a cup of tea for his guest and smiled as


    he praised Dexter. ¡°You y well, Dexter.¡±


    Dexter was arrogant and wouldn¡¯t undervalue himself before his elders. He smiled indifferently. ¡°You


    tter me, Mr. Shaw.¡±


    Mr. Shaw nodded, satisfied. He sighed. The more Mr. Shaw looked at the handsome man before him,


    the more Mr. Shaw liked Dexter. He couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Eileen has always told me she likes you. I


    thought¡­.


    He thought Eileen would get together with Dexter, and the two families would be connected by


    marriage. It was an excellent opportunity. Although Laxir wasn¡¯t inferior, it couldn¡¯tpare to Russell


    Group. As for Dexter¡¯s wealth, it was¡­


    Dexter understood what Mr. Shaw meant. He continued smiling. ¡°Eileen treats me as an elder brother.¡±


    Mr. Shaw had second thoughts. That¡¯s right. There are many women around Dexter¡­.


    But he wasn¡¯t satisfied with Arnold at all. Arnold had misappropriated funds without permission for a


    woman and used them to go up against Dexter!


    He now knew Dexter¡¯s purpose foring, and he asked, ¡°Did you hear the news about Carter


    Group¡¯s stocks hitting the limit down price?¡±


    The man silently nced at the clock. ¡°It¡¯s settled that the overseaspany will acquire Carter Group.


    Arnold can¡¯t save thepany.¡±


    Mr. Shaw felt slightly sad. Dexter had rarely done such things in recent years.


    A soft knock was heard at the door. Mr. Shaw nced at the door and said impatiently, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Two young men looked at each other bitterly from a distance, neither yielding.


    Arnold took the initiative to reach out his hand and shook the hand of the man sitting at one side.


    ¡°Dexter is here too.¡±


    Dexter smiled warmly. ¡°Arnold.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    After they greeted each other, Arnold sat at one side.


    Mr. Shaw had an awful expression, but he had no other way. He had to back off. This was the person


    his beloved daughter had feelings for.


    But Dexter couldn¡¯t be pushed around. If Wavery was a kingdom, he was the king.


    Although Dexter called Nigel ¡®Mr. Shaw, Dexter was doing Nigel a favor by meeting him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been liberal with money, Arnold. I heard that while Wyatt¡¯s stocks hit the limit down price, the


    price rose by one billion, Dexter said as he sized Arnold up.


    Dexter¡¯s malicious gaze was devious. He couldn¡¯t underestimate Arnold¡¯s recent ploys to stabilize


    Carter Group¡¯s finances.


    Dexter trusted his and Josie¡¯s foresight.


    ¡°How can I do nothing when my friend is in trouble?¡± Arnold said thoughtfully.


    ¡°You were too impulsive. Weren¡¯t you afraid that Carter Group would be involved?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you involve your cousin, Dexter?¡± Arnold sneered. ¡°You¡¯re more vicious than I am. Perhaps


    Wyatt will never know that the person who destroyed him was his cousin.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t say anything. He nced at the time while buttoning his cuffs. ¡°It¡¯ste. I must leave.¡±


    Mr. Shaw rose. ¡°Take care.¡±


    Dexter shook hands with him again and smiled meaningfully. ¡°I hope Laxir won¡¯t do anything silly in the


    future.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t express how he felt after the attack today. He said calmly. ¡°Let me send you off.¡±

 Chapter 381

    Chapter 381


    Chapter 381 In Debt


    Dexter left the office first. Mr. Shaw pulled Arnold¡¯s sleeve and warned him. ¡°We¡¯ll talk about this next


    time. Be careful what you say and how you act around him!¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t answer. He adjusted his sleeve disdainfully.


    In the private elevator, both men had imposing demeanors. Arnold had a dark expression, and he tried


    to regain control.


    ¡°You¡¯re so ruthless against your wife, Dexter. A debt of one billion. It will destroy her.¡±


    Dexter had a cold smile. ¡°The market is always moving. I can¡¯t go easy on her, even if she¡¯s my wife.


    Furthermore, wasn¡¯t this caused by you taking the initiative, Arnold?¡±


    His voice was cold and sarcastic.


    The media went mad.


    The central business district was filled with reporters. They wouldn¡¯t give up unless they got a picture of


    the high-level executive¡¯s dejected expression.


    Josie stayed in the office. She drew the curtains and cut herself off from the rest of the world.


    She couldn¡¯t panic. She had to calm down and think about what had gone wrong. Even if she couldn¡¯t


    solve it, it was good to reflect on it deeply.


    Just as Dexter had said, she was foolish in many ways. If this were a graded exam, she would have


    failed.


    The assistant sent a message. Up to this time, Wyatt was in a debt of two billion.


    Josie went to see Dexter in the end.


    Three hours before the marketmenced trading the next day, she finally opened the tightly shut


    office door before the sun rose. Josie looked into Wyatt¡¯s worried eyes and nodded lightly to express


    that she was alright. After that, she walked to one side and dialed a familiar number.


    At that moment, the office floor was lit. No one could sleep. They stared at the stifling numbers on the


    computer and pondered how they should deal with it a few hourster.


    They finally saw Josie. Her frail figure seemed extremely weak, but her appearance unexpectedly


    encouraged them.


    The other party seemed to have been waiting for her call. It rang shortly before the call was answered.


    It was silence on the other end.


    Josie stared at her pale reflection in the ss and slowly said, ¡°I want to see you


    The other party said sternly, ¡°Half an hour. Russell Group.¡±


    Wyatt¡¯s office wasn¡¯t far from Russell Group, and thetter wasn¡¯t as brightly lit as the former. Russell


    Group¡¯s employees were much more rxed. No one was working overtime at Russell Group, and the


    building was pitch dark. Josie¡¯s neck was sore from looking up at the facility. She seemed to see


    scattered lights on the highest floor.


    It was too high up. He was too far away.


    Even his secretary wasn¡¯t around at such a time.


    Dexter sat in his office, and LED screens showed the surveince monitors. He narrowed his eyes as


    he watched the petite woman enter his private elevator. It rose slowly. He couldn¡¯t see her expression,


    but he had a good idea.


    She must have been biting her lower lip and looking extremely reluctant.


    Just as he had expected.


    The door with the smart sensor opened slowly. Dexter slowly looked up, and astonishment streaked


    across his face.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were bloodshot, and she seemed unbelievably haggard.


    Josie didn¡¯t greet him. She sat across from him, and her gaze was indifferent. ¡°State your conditions.¡±


    He didn¡¯t move. He looked at Josie carefully and taunted her. ¡°Are you pleading with me so brazenly?¡±


    Josie red ferociously at the man and tried to restrain herself. But she couldn¡¯t help but gnaw on her


    lips. ¡°Dexter Russell!¡±


    He suddenly roared, ¡°Stop!¡±


    She was startled. It was a while before she understood what Dexter meant. She slowly stopped biting


    her lips.


    After that, there was an intense silence between the two.


    A bottle of whiskey was on his desk, and his transparent ss was half full. His ashtray was empty.


    He hadn¡¯t smoked, but alcoholic fumes surrounded him.


    There were even alcohol fumes in the air. Josie was slightly intoxicated just by breathing it in.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

 Chapter 382

    Chapter 382


    Chapter 382 Negotiation


    Josie undoubtedly caved under such silence.


    +5 Bonus


    She broke the silence with a strained voice. ¡°So your true purpose wasn¡¯t Carter Group. It was Wyatt.¡±


    Dexter was ying with his winess with his bony hands. ¡°Once Yanis¡¯ process was done, it was only


    natural to recover the value.¡±


    He had deliberately let go and given Wyatt authority but wouldn¡¯t let Wyatt truly upy the market. He


    had tormented Wyatt to reim the power.


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°Wyatt¡¯spany can¡¯t go on the market, and he agreed to allow the


    overseaspany¡­ no, to let Russell Group into the board of directors. We will let you into the


    general shareholders¡¯ meeting, but you can¡¯t touch his position. His position must be safe.¡±


    Dexter was raising his ss to his lips, and he paused. The corners of his lips twitched, and he said


    contemptuously, ¡°When the market opens tomorrow, the stock prices will continue to drop. The shares


    he owns will be a worthless sheet of paper. What leverage do you have to make demands?¡±


    After that, he finished his drink.


    The strong alcohol went down his throat violently.


    Josie¡¯s hands by her side clenched tightly. He had really pushed them into a corner.


    She took a deep breath and suddenly raised her head. Her bitter gaze turned into a firm one. She


    restrained her voice from trembling. ¡°I¡¯m not discussing this with you on behalf of Wyatt.¡±


    The man raised his brows slightly. He didn¡¯t expect what she would say next. ¡°I¡¯m sitting here as your


    wife.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s heart stopped. He was momentarily taken aback.


    ¡°I¡¯m begging you to let them go.¡±


    From Josie¡¯s strong demeanor, he never thought she would suddenly arm-twist him. She pulled the rug


    from under him¡­


    She looked down and felt extremely humiliated. She hadn¡¯t wanted to use such a way to plead with


    him.


    But if she didn¡¯t¡­ She didn¡¯t know how ruthless the man would be.


    Of course, she wasn¡¯t confident Dexter would be moved because of what she said.


    What will he say? Will he say that work and personal matters can¡¯t be intertwined? Or will he ridicule


    me for being naive again?


    Josie was prepared, but she never thought the man would put the winess down. It made a sound in


    the quiet room. He said indifferently. ¡°Since Wyatt has given up other seats, I can allow him to stay on


    the board. The brands under his banner will still be cohesive. I promise they won¡¯t be torn apart and


    relocated to otherpanies.¡±


    The light cast a dim shadow on the man¡¯s face. Even his side profile was handsome.


    She had sessfully pulled the rug from under him.


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    This was Dexter¡¯s most significant concession.


    She was still silent. Dexter stared at the haggard woman, and his hardened heart suddenly softened.


    His throat rumbled.


    Josie said, ¡°I need time to think about it.¡±


    Dexter nced at his watch and said. ¡°The market is opening in two hours. You can go in and rest.¡±


    Rest in his break room.


    She had been there many times.


    Josie turned him down firmly. She walked out of his office and called Wyatt.


    She told him the situation, and he didn¡¯t say anything for a long time. He suddenly said, ¡°Josie, I was


    too


    na?ve.¡±


    Josie shut her eyes.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter¡­ Do as you wish.¡±


    Wyatt had yielded. This was the reality. Life went on. He had to do anything to survive if he didn¡¯t want


    to be eliminated from the rat race.


    Arnold could no longer give them more funds because he could barely fend for himself. With the


    current situation as a precedent, other venture capital investmentpanies couldn¡¯t help them out.


    Wyatt experienced the hypocrisy of the world in the past few days.


    Josie always thought she could be an equal rival to Dexter, but she never expected to be at the end of


    her road at such an early stage.


    She returned coldly to the harsh office, and her expression was indifferent. ¡°I will arrange for a contract


    to be written. We can sign it before the market opens for trading.¡±


    In the end, they were defeated by Russell Group.


    What the man had done in this trade war could be considered a master ss.


    When she was turning to leave, the man behind her called out to her. ¡°Wait a moment!¡±


    Josie suddenly stopped. Her legs were slightly weak from being in heels for so long.


    Dexter stood up slowly and walked to her one step at a time. The closer he got, the more she shivered.


    His lips brushed her ears. ¡°Remember toe back for dinner tonight, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie restrained herself from pping him.

 Chapter 383

    Chapter 383


    Chapter 383 Owing A Favor


    Dexter didn¡¯t personally sign the contract. The supposed leader from the overseaspany was scht


    instead.


    When Josie faced Wyatt¡¯s team, she saw how disappointed they were and felt upset. She forced a


    smile and consoled them. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We will still have opportunities in the future.¡±


    She looked at Wyatt again. He hadn¡¯t shown up for a few days. Even though there was a solution to


    their problem, he must have felt bad too.


    What else could they do?


    ¡°What a close call. How tragic,¡± Laura said on the phone to Josie as she looked at the news on the


    Inte.


    The articles were poorly written. Some ridiculed Wyatt¡¯spany for being small, so it wasn¡¯t a pity to


    be acquired.


    Some media took photos of Josie¡¯s side profile as she left under the protection of others. It didn¡¯t make


    many waves because no one knew who she was. When Dexter¡¯s secretary saw it, she quickly


    instructed the public rtions team to take it down.


    Josie had a splitting headache and didn¡¯t want to say a word.


    Laura followed the situation and didn¡¯t think it was a big deal. Sheughed lightly as she asked, ¡°Did


    you cheat on Dexter to make him like this?¡±


    Emotions finally stirred in Josie. ¡°I cheated? Have you not seen his rumored partners?¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right.¡±


    Josie wanted to hang up.


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    Laura sensed Josie was in a bad mood and stopped teasing her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. When I can finally use


    the Olsen family¡¯s power one day, I¡¯ll help you make aeback.¡±


    Laura was vowing solemnly, and Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. She couldn¡¯t bear to tease Laura.


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll wait for you to rescue me.¡±


    ¡°But since we¡¯re talking about it, where does the Olsen family¡¯s power lie?¡±


    ¡°You know who your enemy is but don¡¯t know your enemy¡¯s power,¡± Laura told Josie that her family¡¯s


    debt was immediately cleared after she married Zach. The family had substantial financial resources


    and had been rich for generations. ¡°Wavery¡¯s most valuable ports andnd areas belong to the Olsen


    family.¡±


    Josie understood. Russell had previously told her the Russell family owned a lot ofnd in Wavery. The


    Olsen family must have owned half of what remained.


    Laura didn¡¯t tell Josie certain things because she feared Josie would be angry.


    She didn¡¯t understand the business world, but she knew that if Josie revealed it to the media and


    admitted to being Mrs. Russell, it would be payback to Dexter. Then, regardless of the response,


    Arnold would have the opportunity to catch a breath. Perhaps he could even¡­. ovee the malicious


    acquisition.


    But Laura didn¡¯t do so. Even when Dexter suggested it to Josie, she didn¡¯t want him to make their


    marriage public.


    It seemed like Josie had decided not to let the outside world know she was connected to him.


    Josie didn¡¯t contact Arnold. He sent her a message of his own ord. You don¡¯t have to contact me for


    the time being. I will deal with it.


    He didn¡¯t mention the one billion at all¡­


    She made a mental note. Not only did she owe Arnold money, but she also owed him a huge favor.


    She didn¡¯t return to Mason Garden.


    Even if she wanted to return, she couldn¡¯t do it now. Even if she failed, she couldn¡¯t let Dexter see her


    as a joke.


    Heaven on Earth was as lively as usual. No matter what was happening outside, it could be forgotten in


    Heaven on Earth. Everyone could just indulge in worldly pleasures.


    Josie kept drinking. It was as though she felt nothing and desperately wanted to get drunk.


    It attracted Calvin¡¯s attention.


    He frowned when he looked at her. ¡°What happened? Did Dex bully you?¡±


    Josie put down her ss heavily and pointed with her finger. She wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t


    say a word.


    Calvin guessed that she wanted to swear.


    He couldn¡¯t convince her, so he wondered if he should call Dexter.

 Chapter 384

    Chapter 384


    Chapter 384 The Drunk Woman


    But Josie snatched Calvin¡¯s cell phone away fiercely. ¡°Don¡¯t call him. I have no rtionship with him!¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, someone tapped the back of her head hard. At the next moment, she


    fell into a familiar yet warm embrace.


    The man¡¯s deep voice rang above her. ¡°You can go.¡±


    Calvin smirked. He took his cell phone back and sighed silently. It seems like she¡¯spletely lost.


    Josie was drunk and narrowed her eyes as she sized up the man. She didn¡¯t care how nasty an


    expression he had when she clearly saw who it was. ¡°You¡¯re here.¡±


    Dexter crouched down and carried her to the VIP room. He restrained his anger and wanted to ssh


    water on her to wake her up.


    The woman moved limply and muttered tauntingly, ¡°I forgot this ce is yours.¡±


    Her voice softened, and she said weakly, ¡°Do you think lowly of me?¡±


    The man pped her hands away and threw her on the soft bed. He went into the bathroom silently.


    He took a towel from the cupboard out of habit and rinsed it with warm water. He went to her and


    carefully wiped her face while holding her in his arms.


    After a while, she seemed to have fallen asleep. It was quiet.


    Just as Dexter was about to get up, the woman suddenly pulled a corner of his shirt and threw up


    directly on him¡­


    Dexter was bbergasted.


    His temples twitched under the dim light, and he was close to gritting his teeth. Josie did this on


    purpose. She definitely did this on purpose.


    ¡°Josie Warren!¡± She looked innocent, and she looked at him with an inebriated gaze. Her big eyes


    looked miserable.


    At that moment, Dexter¡¯s temper disappeared. He shut his eyes as he was resigned to clean her again.


    In the end, he took an hour to clean both of them.


    Josie had fallen asleep, and he had tied her hair up messily. A few strands fell on her sleeping face.


    Her face was simple yet beautiful without makeup. She looked very demure when her eyes were shut


    and when she wasn¡¯t making a fuss.


    Dexter quietlyy beside her after turning off any electronics that could wake her. He embraced her


    gently.


    But he couldn¡¯t fall asleep for a long time.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She was inebriated tonight. Dexter didn¡¯t know how she would react when she woke up and saw him


    the following morning.


    Time passed slowly.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you understand me?¡± He asked softly. Only his voice was heard in therge room.


    Josie woke up in the wee hours of the night, extremely parched because she had drunk too much.


    Josie subconsciously reached out to the bedside table, but it was empty. She woke up in a panic and


    got up to turn on a tablemp when she came to her senses and realized she wasn¡¯t in Mason


    Garden¡­


    Dexter would often leave a ss of water for her at Mason Garden.


    When Josie thought about it, she sobered up suddenly and shook her head ferociously.


    And at this time.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    The voice was sleepy and slightly hoarse. It made her heart race.


    Josie was taken aback. She turned. ¡°Why are you here?!¡±


    Dexter woke up and opened his eyes calmly. His gaze was frightening. He nced at her slightly


    disdainfully as she pulled the covers to her chest. He mocked her softly. ¡°Who do you think helped you


    shower and change your outfit?¡±


    Josie red up. She raised her hand and wanted to p the nonchnt man. ¡°You¡¯re really


    shameless!¡±


    Dexter caught hold of her hand precisely and pulled it back. She fell into his arms.


    It hurt slightly when her face bumped into his warm chest. She felt the vigorous beating of his heart.

 Chapter 385

    Chapter 385


    Chapter 385 Etched with His Name


    Josie knew she couldn¡¯t escape him, so she started berating and swearing at him. After a while, she


    looked up bravely when she didn¡¯t hear any response from him. She was met with the man¡¯s quiet and


    solemn expression.


    She was enraged by him, and she was livid. She had utterly forgotten all the manners he had taught


    her over the past year with some difficulty.


    Josie knew she had lost all self-control, but it didn¡¯t elicit his response. Josie was dejected and


    mumbled softly. ¡°You really have the nerve to appear in front of me. Aren¡¯t you afraid I hid a knife on


    me?¡±


    She was capable of doing such a thing.


    Dexterposed himself. At the next moment, he leaped on her and loosened her belt. ¡°Don¡¯t get


    angry. It¡¯s not good to go to bed angry.¡±


    Josie dodged him in surprise and avoided his kiss.


    The man suppressed his strength and leaned back slightly as he quietly observed how the woman


    struggled even when in desperate straits.


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    She was like a bee that had fallen into the water and was trying her best to flutter and climb ashore, but


    her wings were getting heavier as they were soaked by the water¡­ She could no longer fly¡­ In the


    end, she would just give up.


    He was doing the same thing with Wyatt.


    As a tyrant in the business world, it was easy for him to acquire apany. This woman had tried


    everything to redeem it, but what was the result?


    He liked seeing the energy slowly die out in others.


    Like right now.


    The woman had no strength left to struggle.


    She looked at him boldly. ¡°If you dare touch me today, I¡¯ll have a knife on me tomorrow!¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Dexter¡¯s warm kissnded precisely on her pink lips. ¡°Try me.¡±


    She stopped struggling, and she felt cold. She didn¡¯t know if she was feeling disappointed.


    This feeling brought out hidden malice in Dexter¡¯s heart. He suddenly held her face, and his eyes were


    filled with hatred. ¡°Did you do it with Arnold!


    1/2


    Josie¡¯s expression froze. After a long time, the corners of her lips twitched. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    His hands lingered on her body, and all he smelled was the alcohol fumes on her. His emotions


    haunted himte at night, and he knew he couldn¡¯t retract certain things if he said them.


    ¡°That one billion. Where did ite from if you didn¡¯t pay a price?¡±


    Josie understood. After a moment, she sneered. ¡°¡­ So that¡¯s how you think of me.¡±


    Her heart sank.


    Why do I feel this way? I should stoop to his level and taunt him, but why is it so hard to hear such a


    Dexter¡¯s hands paused. She quicklyposed herself when he looked at her and answered him


    calmly. ¡°I think it¡¯s worth it. One billion for only one night. As you know,


    it.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s grip tightened, and his gaze was furious. He wanted to strangle her.


    ell, it was worth


    Josie retorted with a smile, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the same? How many women have you ow few years? Let¡¯s


    drop the formalities. We either lead our separate lives, or we should divorce!¡±


    She had removed her ring from her finger. Her bare fingers showed that she was free!


    Dexter was livid. ¡°Divorce? Dream on. Over my dead body!¡±


    He suddenly pulled down her nightgown, and his fingers stopped on her graceful body. ¡°Do you think


    you¡¯re good enough for Arnold?¡±


    ¡°Here, here, and here!¡±


    ¡°My name is etched on you!¡±


    He jabbed his fingers into her body, and Josie couldn¡¯t help but groan. After that, a tear slid out of the


    corner of her eye. She was humiliated.

 Chapter 386

    Chapter 386


    Chapter 386 Buying Medicine for Him


    She suddenly resisted violently, and Dexter was caught off guard. As she was kicking frantically, she hit


    him in the abdomen. He groaned in pain, and Josie freed herself from his grip. She recklessly picked


    up the tablemp on the bedside table and raised it, wanting to smash it on his head.


    ¡®Crack!¡¯


    He hit themp away with his backhand, which shattered against the wall.


    The partition wall fell apart, and the shattered ss from the tablemp rebounded on them. Dexter¡¯s


    gaze froze, and he carefully protected Josie with his hand against the ss fragments that were about


    to fall on her face.


    A drop of fresh blood fell on her face.


    It burned.


    Josie¡¯s heart beat fiercely. She saw nothing but bright red amidst the chaos. What came after was dead


    silence.


    The man reached out to wipe the blood from her face, Josie came to her senses at his warm touch and


    pushed him away viciously. She got out of bed, and Dexter fell. He only managed to maintain his


    bnce when he supported himself with both hands on the floor covered in ss shards¡­


    He hung his head and stopped chasing after her. He clenched his fists silently while the ss remnants


    pierced his hands. Blood fell on the floor in big drops. It was a shocking scene.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened. She knew he was hard on himself, but didn¡¯t it hurt¡­.


    At that moment, she suddenly realized that there was no way that this man, who could kill her, would


    be tenderhearted toward her. He thought he had a tough life and wanted everyone to perish in an


    inferno with him.


    He was always his own hero¡­


    Josie adjusted her nightgown slowly and looked at him for a while before she mmed the door.


    She left.


    Dexter gave up all thoughts of chasing after her. As he hung his head, his feelings were


    iprehensible. His ck hair drooped, and the dim light made the invincible man seem miserable.


    She left without hesitation in the end.


    He tried to get up and clean the ce, but he couldn¡¯t move at all.


    He was slightly tired.


    At this time, a wave of regret washed over him. Should I not have been so ruthless? I should have let


    her be as long as she stays by my side.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    So what if I keep her by my side when she¡¯s so listless? This isn¡¯t the person I like.


    He suddenly heard footsteps. It sounded like hers.


    pair of beautiful legs.


    He saw Josie, who had returned.


    stood among the ss shards. As Dexter slowly looked up, he saw a


    She towered above him and looked down at him coldly. Her hair, which he had tied up for her, had


    be messy and seemed slightlyical.


    She was holding a bag weakly.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes lit up. At that moment, he suddenly forgot what the two had argued about, his grudges,


    and the pain he was feeling inside.


    Josie panted ruggedly, and her expression was stiff. There was no other emotion on her face.


    He slowly opened the bag.


    Gauze, cotton swabs, painkillers, aspirin¡­


    The still night was silent.


    She crouched down and bandaged his wound. She was focused and stared intently at his bloody


    hands as various emotions surged in her heart.


    He looked at what she was doing, and his cold gaze was directed elsewhere¡­


    He thought of how resistant she was¡­ and how tenderhearted she was now¡­


    ¡°Get lost.¡±


    A cold voice suddenly crept into her ears. It swept past her ears like a chilly winter breeze.


    Josie was cold from going out in a nightgown at night, and her fingers were white from the icy weather.


    When she heard what he said, she froze while holding the gauze. She looked up at the temperamental


    man, astonished.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze slowly met hers. ¡°Did you hear me?¡±

 Chapter 387

    Chapter 387


    You Two Look Quite Well-Matched When Walking Together Chapter 387 You Two Look Quite Well-


    Matched When Walking Together


    Josie paused for a split second before she threw everything in her hands on the floor. She pushed his


    injured hand away forcefully. She touched his sore spot, and he could feel his wound starting to bleed


    again.


    As she turned to leave, she looked at him for thest time loathingly.


    He suddenly grabbed her wrist, and she heard him say coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t try to ckmail others emotionally


    like me. You¡¯ll never master it.¡±


    After spending time together for a year, was this man¡¯s patience and cautiousness emotional


    ckmail?


    Because he was good at it, he could tell with one nce that Josie had returned because of human


    nature.


    Josie was incensed and tried to break free, but he suddenly held her tightly. She lost count of how often


    she had gritted her teeth at him. ¡°Let go of me!¡±.


    Dexter¡¯s coarse fingers caressed her left hand and felt her bare ring finger. He used the same force to


    push her hand away, and his voice turned cold. ¡°I want to see a proposal on Wyatt¡¯s team¡¯s future


    development on my table tomorrow.¡±


    Josie ran from him, and her heels made loud sounds on the floor. She walked past the mess, and


    before she mmed the door and left again, thest thing she heard was, ¡°Don¡¯t forget that we haven¡¯t


    divorced. You better control yourself.¡±


    It seemed to be taunting her. Josie understood it.


    She passed by the pharmacy she had bought medicine from, and the girl on duty was leaving work.


    The girl shut the door and bumped into Josie when she turned, and her eyes lit up. ¡°Ah?¡±


    Her smile froze. She could tell that Josie didn¡¯t seem to be in good shape.


    Josie nced at the girl and nodded at her. She couldn¡¯t express anything else. She warmed her arms


    with her hands because of the cold.


    The girl watched in a daze as Josie walked further away. Josie seemed like a nomad.


    A few dayster, Wyatt¡¯s team merged into another corporation. All the profit from the various research


    and development projects under their banner was also absorbed. Russell Group employees were


    spreading rumors that Wyatt couldn¡¯t manage apany properly, and Russell Group had to tidy up


    his


    mess.


    Little did they know that Dexter had caused the mess.


    Josie assisted Wyatt in dealing with various matters, and he had been feeling bad. I¡¯m sorry, Josie. I


    wouldn¡¯t have dragged you into the mess without my inadequacy. I will think of a way to repay the


    debt.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s one billion. How are you going to repay it?¡±


    ¡°I asked my father to lend me some money before the mess urred.¡±


    Josie understood that it must have been a significant sum.


    ¡°So your father¡­¡±


    You Two Look Quite Well-Matched When Walking Together


    ¡°Is very angry.¡± Wyatt smiled bitterly.


    ¡°Did you look for¡­.,¡± Josic asked tentatively, ¡°Dexter?¡±


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m too embarrassed to look for Mr. Russell. He entrusted the team to me, but I messed everything


    up,¡± Wyatt said.


    Josie understood half the situation. So Wyatt still didn¡¯t know who the mastermind behind the scenes


    was. Dexter had caused much trouble.


    She was out of a job now, so she could help him a little. It was somewhat rted to her, so she had to


    take responsibility.


    ¡°Josie, I¡¯ll be going to ask for financing soon. Can youe with me to a social engagement tonight?


    But of course, I¡¯ll ask Mr. Russell in advance,¡± Wyatt added.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell him. I¡¯lle with you.¡± Josie¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, and she lied. ¡°He


    agreed for me to help you regarding this.¡±


    After she said that, Wyatt wasn¡¯t worried.


    The social engagement was at Mandarin Oriental.


    But Josie never thought that Summer would be the person to greet them.


    ¡°You¡¯re here?¡± Summer was in a long, white dress as usual. Her dress swayed when she walked, and


    she looked very dignified. She smiled and said, ¡°You two look quite well-matched when walking


    together.¡±

 Chapter 388

    Chapter 388


    Chapter 388 Skillful


    Her intent was malicious. Wyatt smiled courteously and awkwardly. ¡°Josie is loyal and agreed toe


    with me.


    ¡°She¡¯s loyal.¡± Summer nced at Josie with an iprehensible expression. ¡°Am I not loyal? My dad


    has been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


    When Wyatt heard it, his footsteps quickened. ¡°How could I make Mr. Olsen wait for me? Let¡¯s head


    in.¡± Summer and Josie looked at each other before Summer answered, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Before entering the private room, Summer walked with Josie and said in a low voice, ¡°Was the one


    billion from Arnold?¡±


    Josie wrinkled her brows. She couldn¡¯t ignore the question. ¡°Sort of.¡±


    Summer looked at Josie strangely, as though she thought it was unimaginable. ¡°I can¡¯t bear to see him


    in trouble. Don¡¯t involve him in this.¡±


    Josie found it peculiar. ¡°You¡¯re very kind to someone you don¡¯t love, Ms. Olsen.


    She suddenly understood why Summer had captivated Arnold for so many years. It must have been


    because Summer often yed hard to get.


    Summer snorted coldly and meaningfully.


    Her father, Mark Olsen, had a social engagement at Mandarin Oriental today. Wyatt seemed to have


    found an opportunity at thest minute and only had twenty minutes to talk to Mark.


    Summer opened the door and said sweetly, ¡°Father. Wyatt is here.¡±


    Josie followed behind Wyatt, and she looked up through the dim light. She searched the crowd and


    looked at the seat of honor, which sat a poised and earnest middle-aged man. Although he looked


    aged, she could tell he was experienced through his demeanor alone.


    A smile was in the corners of his lips, and his gaze was shrewd. His eyes were kind yet perceptive.


    Mark nced at Wyatt before his gaze quickly fell on Josie. He had an awful expression.


    It was as though Josie was electrocuted. She frowned. She was sure she had never met Mark, but for


    some reason, he looked familiar, as if she had previously met him,


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, this is a little something from me. Thank you for this opportunity.¡± Wyatt had gone forward


    to greet Mark. Wyatt had always been good at socializing.


    Mark talked to Wyatt politely. Other times, he spoke softly to his daughter by his side. It seemed like he


    loved Summer a lot.


    ¡°I know who you are. You¡¯re Dexter¡¯s cousin. You look quite young.¡±


    ¡°Yes. I graduated from college this year.¡±


    ¡°Sum told me you want to discuss a project?¡±


    Dexter signaled for Josie to bring the information forward. ¡°This is one of the projects we¡¯re currently


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    pursuing. It has the potential to develop, and the due diligence has been done. It will be a strong


    contender in an uninhabited market.¡±


    Mark flipped through the information. They didn¡¯t know how much he had absorbed, but his finger


    suddenly stopped on a page. ¡°I think this name has appeared in the recent prominent merger and


    acquisition. Josie Warren?¡±


    Josie, who had been standing and listening at the side, immediately looked up and forced a smile at


    Mark. ¡°I¡¯m Josie Warren, Mr. Olsen.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t say, that¡¯s right. I singlehandedly destroyed the project.


    Mark narrowed his eyes and looked closely at her with the light. ¡°You¡¯re pretty capable.¡±


    She smiled. ¡°You¡¯re too kind.¡±


    You must be skillful enough that Carter Group gave up one billion.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile froze. It seemed like the entire upper social circle in Wavery knew that she had messed


    up a massive project, and Arnold had chipped in one billion for her.


    Summerughed out loud. ¡°Father, I¡¯ve researched Wyatt¡¯s project. They¡¯re developing new technology


    and can dominate ny percent of the market¡¯s shares if it seeds. I think it¡¯s worth investing in


    Mark closed the information and threw it lightly on a table. He looked very authoritative. ¡°Don¡¯t show


    me. projects without a hundred percent certainty. You may leave.¡±

 Chapter 389

    Chapter 389


    Chapter 389 Allies


    Summer¡¯s expression changed. Her gaze met with Wyatt¡¯s, and he immediately went forward. ¡°Mr.


    Olsen, we have reached the final stages of technology development for this project. Once it passes all


    the necessary tests, it will be the leader in the industry.¡±


    Mark spread his hands. ¡°Even if I believe you, how do you have the nerve to make such a solemn vow


    and show it to me without a definite result?¡±


    Wyatt had an awful expression, and Summer immediately cried, ¡°Father!¡±


    Mark sighed, and his tone softened. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of your ability, and your talent is rare, but you¡¯re too


    young. You¡¯re not as experienced yet. You should learn from your cousin.¡±


    Wyatt¡¯s expression darkened when Mark said it, and even Josie¡¯s heart sank. Under such a


    circumstance, Wyatt would be upset regardless of who had made such aparison.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Mr. Olsen. This is valuable advice. I will amend the proposalter. I hope we can meet


    again.¡± Wyatt was dignified and restrained.


    Mark nodded, satisfied. When he got up to leave, he added, ¡°Send my regards to your father.¡±


    Wyatt nodded.


    Summer left with Mark to another private room. That was his primary social engagement.


    Wyatt fell on the couch and seemed defeated. He smiled bitterly, ¡°Josie, will I never be as good as Mr.


    Russell?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. Mark is right. You¡¯re still young, and you haven¡¯t experienced much. You¡¯ll be like


    Dexter when you¡¯ve gone through what he has.¡± Josieforted him kindly.


    Josie had a poor impression of Wyatt when she first met him. She had felt that he was a respectable


    yet devious man. But now, he appeared pure and innocent. Whenparing Dexter and Wyatt, the


    former seemed less upright.


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel disheartened. I¡¯m going to the washroom.¡±


    Josie left the private room and went to the washroom to reapply her lipstick. During this time, a figure


    appeared behind her. It was Summer. ¡°Tell Wyatt not to think about this anymore. Tell him to go home


    and enjoy his life.¡±


    Summer didn¡¯t have a breathtaking appearance. She looked like a quintessential good girl, but her


    ladylike temperament made her seem dignified.


    ¡°Excuse me for asking, but since that¡¯s the case, why don¡¯t you enjoy your life, Ms. Olsen?¡±


    Summer stared at her. ¡°I¡¯m the only sessor of the Olsen family. I can¡¯t enjoy my life even if I want to,


    but it¡¯s different for Wyatt.¡±


    Summer¡¯s perpetual condescension was irritating.


    Josie closed her lipstick when Summer reached out to stop her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you prepared to work hard?


    One billion is a big sum.¡±


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    Josie stood still. ¡°Are you going to help me, Ms. Olsen?


    ¡°Of course. We¡¯re allies, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    Summer handed Josie the gift bag in her hands. ¡°There¡¯s an outfit inside. Change into it and look for


    my father.


    Josie didn¡¯t take it from her. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You look like someone I knew.¡± Summer sized Josie up meaningfully. ¡°But you can¡¯t go to him in such


    an


    outfit.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a revealing outfit. It was just a long, light-green dress. After changing into it, Josie looked like a


    girl next door, seeming pure and gentle. It fit her just right.


    Josie felt slightly apprehensive. She didn¡¯t know if she should believe what Summer had said. But this


    was her only way out since she couldn¡¯t do anything else. It was futile to count on Dexter.


    She took a tray from a waiter, opened the private room door, and walked in. It wasn¡¯t as dazzling and


    depraved as she had expected. It smelled of alcohol and cigarettes. The big shots were imposing as


    they talked business at the poker table. They turned when they heard a noise.

 Chapter 390

    Chapter 390


    Chapter 390 It¡¯s No Wonder He Was So Bold Despite All Odds


    Josie¡¯s bright outfit was a breath of fresh air among the dull crowd.


    Everyone watched as she carefully walked to Mark¡¯s side and poured a ss of wine for him. ¡°Here¡¯s


    your drink, Mr. Olsen.¡°


    Her fingers were slender, and her hair fell when she bent down to pour him wine. She was very


    seductive, and everyone else looked on curiously. They thought her attempt was futile because Mark


    wouldn¡¯t be deceived.


    But surprisingly, Mark was lost in thought as he stared at her face. The corners of his mouth were


    tense, and his eyes seemed to twitch.


    ¡°It¡¯s you?¡±


    Josie feigned ignorance. ¡°Have we met, Mr. Olsen?¡±


    Perhaps Mark could see clearly because this private room had better light. But he scarcely realized that


    Josie wasn¡¯t confident. She didn¡¯t know who she looked like and why Summer was so sure. Meanwhile,


    Mark was, indeed, stirred.


    ¡°Stay.¡± Mark picked up the winess and sipped it. His expression was ambiguous.


    Everyone else admired the woman. She was more than she seemed.


    ¡°It¡¯s your turn, Mr. Olsen,¡± someone said as they read the room.


    Mark sized up the cards and asked Josie, ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Josieughed lightly. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to y.¡±


    ¡°You can decide. It¡¯s on me if I lose. Mark had an imposing demeanor when he said it.


    Josie looked at his cards and chose to y the Jack of Hearts. Everyoneughed when they saw it.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, we must kindly ept your offering today.¡±


    Mark wasn¡¯t angry. He smiled as he pushed his casino tokens out.


    Josie sensed something wrong and said softly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Olsen.¡°


    ¡°No harm. Have a seat.¡±


    When the game ended, everyone was smart and started a new game in another corner. Only Mark and


    Josie were left. She didn¡¯t dare to sit down and hurriedly said, ¡°Mr. Olsen, if I may be so bold, I followed


    you because I hope you can reconsider Wyatt¡¯s project. I¡¯ve looked at it, and it¡¯s a sure bet. It¡¯s a good


    opportunity.¡±


    Mark was ying with the winess in his hand, and his eyes never left her face. His lingering gaze


    made her feel ufortable.


    He finally spoke after a long time. ¡°Were you the one that got into the ident with Sum at the


    factory?¡±


    He knows. Josie nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°No wonder.¡± Mark suddenly realized andughed lightly. ¡°It¡¯s no wonder Dexter was so bold despite all


    odds.¡±


    Despite All Odds


    At this time, Josie said, ¡°Mr. Russell did it for Ms. Olsen. It had nothing to do with me. You¡¯ve


    misunderstood, Mr. Olsen.


    As Summer¡¯s father, he should have been happy that Josie said such a thing about his daughter.


    ¡°No.¡± Mark lifted his hands. ¡°He did it for you. You deserve it.¡±


    Such sudden affirmation made Josie freeze. She didn¡¯t understand what Mark meant and poured him


    another ss of wine. She was trying to figure out who she looked like.


    Is it Leanne? But her age when she had gone missing doesn¡¯t tally with Mark.


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°You were also involved when Russell and Carter Groups faced off against each other.¡± Mark quickly


    guessed why the dispute had urred, and Josie didn¡¯t know how to answer.


    ¡°It was a fight between two greatpanies. I¡¯m a nobody.¡±


    ¡°Whose side are you on?¡±


    Mark asked her a tricky question. Josie had no way to lie as he observed her. She thought of a middle


    ground. I¡¯m an insignificant person. I¡¯m naturally on the stronger side. Wyatt was clearly sacrificed in


    the fight between the two big shots, so I¡¯m willing to fight for him.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quite transparent. Mark had a satisfied smile. He sighed softly and said, ¡°Tell him I¡¯ll invest in


    the project.

 Chapter 391

    Chapter 391


    Chapter 391 Like a Late Friend


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Josie was slightly in a daze. She didn¡¯t understand why Mark agreed so readily.


    ¡°If I may be so bold, Mr. Olsen, what moved you?¡±


    Mark lifted his head slightly and sized her up with the light. ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy that I¡¯m investing?¡±


    ¡°I am, but I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    The corners of his mouth twitched, but he didn¡¯t avoid her question. ¡°You resemble ate friend.¡±


    As it turned out, it was really because of this.


    Josie was smart. At such a stage, she could only ept it wholeheartedly. Everything would be alright


    if they had the money. She didn¡¯t mind that she looked like histe friend. She would even be willing to


    act as that person.


    ¡°It¡¯s my honor to resemble yourte friend, Mr. Olsen. She revealed a smile.


    Josie wanted to ask who thete friend was, but she felt it was too pushy to ask, so she didn¡¯t. She


    indistinctly felt that Mark was different from Summer,


    She bowed slightly, and Mark was calm. It was a tender yet affectionate scene as they looked at each


    other. Although Mark was older, he was dignified. She almost forgot his age.


    Dexter opened the door of the private room and witnessed such a scene.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for beingte.¡± Many people noticed him when his unique maic voice sounded.


    Josie froze when she saw Dexter. She could no longer smile.


    Mark was still ying with the winess and had a thoughtful gaze.


    Dexter greeted a few people before he walked to Mark. He took off his coat and gave it to a waiter


    before sitting down. ¡°You¡¯re here too, Mr. Olsen.¡±


    Mark nodded. ¡°Wyatt looked for me today.¡±


    He was so straightforward. For a moment, Josie didn¡¯t know in what capacity she was standing next to


    Dexter, and she didn¡¯t know how to react.


    Dexter nced at Josie. She didn¡¯t know for whose benefit he said it. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for troubling you. Wyatt


    slipped up while Arnold and I were contending. I will deal with it. I never thought he would look for you.¡±


    What a hypocrite. Josie thought to herself.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. You¡¯re both from a younger generation. It¡¯s only natural for me to guide you.¡± Mark


    straightened up and stretched.


    At this time, Dexter changed the topic to Josie. ¡°Did youe with Wyatt?¡±


    Josie nced at Mark. ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Olsen doesn¡¯t usually meet with people so easily. He was being polite today. Don¡¯t be so rude next


    time.¡± Dexter¡¯s fingers touched the winess lightly, and the warning tone in his voice was evident. ¡°It¡¯s


    not


    1/2


    good to think too highly of yourself.¡±


    Josie silently endured his admonishing. ¡°I understand.


    ¡°Why do you have to be so harsh to your employees? You¡¯re being too rigid, Dex.¡± Mark looked closely


    at Josie again. ¡°I think this girl is pretty good.¡±


    Even if Josie was slow to react, she could feel his affection. She subconsciously avoided it.


    ¡°She¡¯s still young. Don¡¯t take offense, Mr. Olsen.¡± Dexter quickly added before he said to her, ¡°Come


    here.¡±


    Josie hesitated for a moment but walked to him. For some reason, she felt very secure at that moment.


    ¡°I naturally won¡¯t mind if you manage your rtionships well.¡±


    A subtle smile was in the corner of Mark¡¯s mouth.


    In a split second, Josie understood it. Although he was kind to her today, she couldn¡¯tpare to


    Summer, his biological daughter.


    As it turned out, he knew her identity but didn¡¯t say anything. It seemed like everyone else was doing


    the same. It was as though she wasn¡¯t Mrs. Russell if no one acknowledged it.


    Josie sobered up when she realized it.

 Chapter 392

    Chapter 392


    Chapter 392 Know Your ce


    Dexter filled Mark¡¯s winess and said, ¡°I heard Sum say that your lower back isn¡¯t doing too well


    recently. I¡¯ve made an appointment for you with Wavery¡¯s best doctor. Go for physiotherapy when


    you¡¯re free.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother. It¡¯s a recurring issue,¡± Mark said, ¡°it seems like you¡¯re close with Sum recently.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in charge of the Russell Group research project in Vaste. We have business dealings,¡± Dexter


    answered calmly. It didn¡¯t sound strange.


    Mark understood. ¡°I will advise her.¡±


    After they dispersed, Dexter left the hotel. He sent Mark to the car and instructed the driver to drive


    safely.


    Mark sat in the backseat and looked past Dexter to look at Josie. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Dexter stepped back darkly while Josie went forward. She said with a smile, ¡°Mr. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°To be honest with you, I was astonished when I saw the news.¡± Mark didn¡¯t avoid it at all.


    Josie¡¯s smile froze. ¡°I think you¡¯ve misunderstood.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t let Sum wreck your marriage, providing you don¡¯t hurt her. But if she insists, I will help her as


    her father. Ms. Warren, I¡¯m advising you nicely to know your ce.¡±


    This was a warning.


    Josie¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. ¡°Mr. Olsen, Ms. Olsen¡¯s feelings are unrequited.¡±


    There was finally a trace of surprise on Mark¡¯s calm face for the first time that night. ¡°Sum?¡±


    Josie nodded. She straightened up, backed away, and the driver started the engine before driving away


    with Mark.


    Under such a circumstance, she had no other choice. She could only follow Dexter.


    It was peak hour, and the roads were filled with cars. The traffic was terrible. No matter how good


    Dexter¡¯s car was, it couldn¡¯t fly. He was powerless as his car was stuck in traffic. It couldn¡¯t move..


    The air in the car was tense.


    Josie sat in a corner and held on to a water bottle tightly as she texted Wyatt. She told him to leave and


    that the matter was settled.


    Surprised, he asked her how she did it, but Josie stopped replying.


    Moses was driving today. He sensed that the air was strange, so he made conversation to alleviate the


    -situation.


    ¡°The traffic in Wavery is almost like in the city. Do they want to retain millions of college graduates with


    such traffic? How absurd.¡±


    Josie¡¯s grip loosened, and her wattle bottle fell to Moses feet. He didn¡¯t dare to crouch down and pick it


    up. She was silent. On the other end, Dexter had an awful expression. He didn¡¯t say a word. His


    ominous


    10


    demeanor made the temperature drop. Josie didn¡¯t understand why he was angry. Shouldn¡¯t he be


    happy to


    see me in such a state now?


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you wereing to Mandarin Oriental today. I didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡± She finally said


    something.


    Dexter looked at her coldly.


    ¡°I hadn¡¯t nned on going to Mandarin Oriental today.¡± His intention was clear. He had gone there for


    her.


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°So, are you satisfied now that you¡¯ve seen me?¡± Is he satisfied after seeing me


    in such a predicament?


    ¡°Did you harass me for a life like this?¡± Dexter suppressed his rage. ¡°You¡¯re pretty good at acting like a


    tyrant at home, but you¡¯re meek and civil in public. Do you know who Mark Olsen is? He can easily


    destroy you with the flick of his wrist.¡±


    She felt his rage and didn¡¯t move.


    Josie¡¯s mind was still reying what Mark had said to her.


    Mark had humiliated her, so Dexter¡¯s words didn¡¯t affect her.


    She didn¡¯t retort or say anything. After a moment, she said, ¡°Are you done?¡±


    Dexter raised his brows.


    Josie nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. This is my life now. I don¡¯t have the right to resist at all.¡±All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 393

    Chapter 393


    Chapter 393 We Won¡¯t Have Many More Arguments


    His frown deepened.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Furthermore, his humiliation is only a tenth of how you¡¯ve humiliated me, Mr. Russell.¡±


    There was something else she didn¡¯t say aloud.


    I¡¯m in such a situation thanks to you. You¡¯re an indifferent bully. You have no right to reprimand me.


    Dexter ran his tongue over his teeth and stared at her outfit. ¡°Who gave you this dress?¡±


    Josie had yet to realize the severity of the matter, and she continued infuriating him. ¡°Does it look


    good? Do you think that I look like your so¨Ccalledte friend too? I like it.¡±


    ¡°Josie Warren,¡± Dexter said in a low voice.


    She raised her brows. ¡°In any case, I didn¡¯t do anything shameful. I¡¯m not afraid. Unlike some people


    with¡­¡±


    ¡°With what?¡± He put one hand against the car door and grabbed his hair.


    Josie saw his sudden halfhearted expression and abruptly felt her heart race. Her lips parted, and she


    didn¡¯t hold back. ¡°With an unrestrained private life.¡±


    After she said it, Dexter turned. After a moment, he spoke calmly and enunciated each word. ¡°Say that


    again.¡±


    Josie realized she had said something wrong and didn¡¯t say anything else. Dexter sneered and said


    indifferently, ¡°Let us both not overstep boundaries.¡±


    It was as though she was enlightened.


    The restlessness in Dexter suddenly rose. At that moment, he slowly came to his senses. The two


    were ying games, and they felt suspicious and jealous of each other. Neither of them trusted each


    other.


    He said something nasty. ¡°I look at other women, and you look at other men. We just reunite


    asionally. Isn¡¯t this great? Perhaps we¡¯ll spend thetter part of our lives together. So what if this life


    ends? Don¡¯t I treat you well enough? You can¡¯t push your luck when I¡¯m being so kind to you.¡±


    Even if he was right, he spoke coldly.


    Josie held her cell phone tightly, and her hands felt icy. Her heart also felt cold.


    The air suddenly turned frosty.


    Their conversation ended.


    The traffic up ahead cleared, and Moses drove forward. The vehicle sped ahead quickly. Josie


    fastened her seat belt and didn¡¯t say anything.


    After a moment, Dexter realized Josie didn¡¯t continue speaking, and the rage in his heart increased.


    The car suddenly stopped at the entrance of Mason Garden with a screech. Dexter turned to look at


    Josie. ¡°You¡¯re pretty brave.¡±


    1/2


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong. Mr. Russell. Ick nothing but courage.


    Otherwise, why would I abandon my self¨Cesteem again and again after being with you?


    ¡°Am I wrong? What was wrong with what I said? Why do I have to be on the receiving end of your


    anger for no reason? Sometimes I really want to ask. If you were the one who suggested setting this


    rtionship up in the first ce, why am I treated like a criminal now?¡±


    After that, Dexter grabbed Josie¡¯s face and sneered. ¡°Do you regret it?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± She looked at him.


    Dexter nodded. ¡°It¡¯s a shame that the one billion hasn¡¯t been repaid. Don¡¯t think of leaving my side if


    you don¡¯t want the people around you to be hurt.¡±


    The love that used to exist between them was now used to threaten and take advantage of each other.


    Josie shook his hands away viciously. She opened the car door and exited before she walked into


    Mason Garden. Mrs. Carroll saw her and said, ¡°Mrs. Russell, did you argue with Mr. Russell again?¡±


    Again¡­ Josie scoffed. If this continues. ¡°We won¡¯t have that many more arguments.¡±


    In the car, Dexter leaned back and shut his eyes. Moses couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you exin


    it to her?¡±

 Chapter 394

    Chapter 394


    Chapter 394 Paul Wakes Up


    ¡°Exin what?¡±


    ¡°To tell her, of course, that you initially had an important engagement today, but you left everything


    behind and rushed over when you found out she was with Mark,¡± Moses said emotionally. ¡°Even I can


    tell that you lost a lot tonight.¡±


    With the project, Arnold could spontaneously recover since Dexter had abandoned it. It was a massive


    loss


    to Dexter.


    But what did it matter? Dexter massaged his temples. ¡°She won¡¯t care. She will think that I deserve it.¡±


    Moses couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°Actually, you love her a lot, right?¡±


    ¡°Love?¡± Dexter thought about it.


    He didn¡¯t stay in Mason Garden tonight, so Josie slept on the big, empty bed. She awoke in the middle


    of the night and reached out beside her, but it was cold. She sighed deeply in the night. At this time, her


    cell phone on the bedside table rang.


    She was startled, and she looked at the caller ID. She was astonished that it was Matthew. She sat up,


    and her heart clenched tightly. ¡°Matt.¡±


    She heard hurried gasps on the other end. Matthew couldn¡¯t say anything for a while because he was


    so emotional.


    With one hand on her chest, Josie waited until she heard him say, ¡°Your father is awake.¡±


    In an instant, her body burned up. She wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t say a word. She raised


    her head, and tears fell on her cheeks. The four long years of waiting had been worth it.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯lle right away.¡±


    When she got out of bed, she realized her legs felt weak. She fell into a sitting position on the floor. She


    envied Summer for having a supportive father when she saw Mark yesterday. Her father was still lying


    in the hospital, where his survival was unknown. She had felt a substantial disparity.


    But things were different now. Josie¡¯s father had awoken¡­ Her father was back!


    B


    Josie stumbled down the stairs, and it woke Mrs. Carroll, Mrs. Carroll put on a coat and came out of her


    room. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Before Josie could answer, she opened a drawer and randomly took a pair of ear keys. ¡°I have to leave


    now!¡±


    ¡°Now?! It¡¯s toote. I¡¯ll call the driver toe and send you.¡±


    But the driver needed some time toe over. Josie shook her head and quickly walked to the garage.


    ¡°I can go alone.¡±


    A dazzling lineup of Dexter¡¯s cars was in the garage, and most had rarely been driven. Josie looked for


    the connected car to the car keys she took before driving away from Mason Garden. Mrs. Carroll¡¯s


    worried figure became smaller in the rearview mirror.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    1/2


    She lowered the car window and felt the cold breeze to stay awake.


    She would no longer be controlled if her father awoke.


    The hospital was emptyte at night. Josie ran to the hospital room but didn¡¯t dare to enter when she


    was at the door. Her heart beat hurriedly, and she stood on tiptoe to look into the room through the


    window. At that moment, tubes were still connected to Paul as he leaned back in his bed and spoke to


    Matthew.


    He seemed to be in a much better mental state.


    He was really awake¡­


    Josie opened the hospital room door and looked at the scene in disbelief.


    ¡°¡­ Dad.¡±


    The two looked at her when they heard a noise.


    Paul sized Josie up, and his eyes were filled with hot tears, which gradually blurred his vision.


    Josie walked forward, and Paul had a smile on his face. ¡°Didn¡¯t Matthew tell you not to rush?¡±


    She turned a deaf ear and walked to Paul¡¯s side. Her tears fell uncontrobly, and she hit him gently,


    She sounded exceedingly grieved. ¡°You slept for so long, old man!¡±


    Paul grabbed her hands and seemed to be in disbelief. ¡°Are you¡­ Jo?¡±


    Josie cried harder. ¡°You can¡¯t even recognize me!¡±

 Chapter 395

    Chapter 395


    Chapter 395 She¡¯s Married


    Paul shook his head hard and held her hand tightly. ¡°Of course I do. How can I forget you, my darling


    girl.¡±


    Josie leaped into his arms and expressed how upset she had felt for the past four years. ¡°You¡¯re the


    worst. You made me endure these four years alone. Do you know how it has been for me?!¡±


    With her father around, she couldin and throw a tantrum freely. It was as though she found


    someone to rely on again.


    Josie had never felt as happy as she did now.


    Paul listened to her and nodded repeatedly. He kept repeating. ¡°I know. It¡¯s been tough for you, Jo. It¡¯s


    my fault¡­


    Matthew left the hospital room. He shut the door and gave the father and daughter alone time out of


    consideration.


    Josie cried for a long time. She rose when she was done. ¡°Take care of yourself. You don¡¯t have to care


    about anything else, okay? Just stay by my side from now on.¡±


    Paul nodded. He reached out to wipe the tears on Josie¡¯s face and said sincerely, ¡°While I was


    unconscious for the past four years, she and Justin didn¡¯t make things difficult for you, did she?¡±


    It went without saying who ¡®she¡¯ was, Josie was quiet for a moment before she shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t


    worry. I¡¯ve been able to stand on my own. I stopped interacting with them.¡±


    Paul was intelligent, and he quickly understood what she meant. He didn¡¯t criticize her. Instead, he said


    worriedly, ¡°From what Matthew said, you¡¯re already working as the head of a design department. Jo,


    I¡¯m thrilled you seeded in the field you like. But it¡¯s too exhausting to live alone¡­¡±


    Josie understood what he meant. She pursed her lips and thought he would find out sooner orter, so


    she told him. ¡°Pop, I¡¯m married.¡±


    Paul froze and looked at her in disbelief. His eyes were dark, and he almost couldn¡¯t catch his breath.


    Josie immediately held onto him and quickly added, ¡°He¡­ he treats me well. I wouldn¡¯t have known


    how to care for you without him.¡±


    Paul recovered slightly when he heard it. ¡°I thought I was out briefly, but years have passed. My darling


    girl is married in the blink of an eye.¡±


    Josie concealed her sadness and frustration.


    ¡°No wonder I always heard an unfamiliar man¡¯s voice talking to me while I was unconscious.¡±


    She smiled bitterly and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m doing well.¡±


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But Paul didn¡¯t believe her. ¡°Why did youe alone in the middle of the night? Where¡¯s he?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ he¡¯s on a business trip and hasn¡¯t been in Wavery recently. I¡¯ll ask him toe and visit you


    once he¡¯s back.¡± She couldn¡¯t help but lie at this point.


    Paul was skeptical. He pulled her to sit down. ¡°How is he like?¡±

 Chapter 396 Residual Effects

    Chapter 396 Residual Effects


    She still felt it was unreal before she slept. ¡°Pop, am I dreaming?¡±


    Paul stroked her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Go to sleep. I¡¯ll be around tomorrow.¡±


    Perhaps it was because she slept by her dad¡¯s side. It was rare for Josie to sleep so soundly.


    next day, she saw her dad leaning against his bed. He was awake. She smiled and said, ¡°Good


    morning, Pop.¡±


    Paul also smiled. Such ordinary days were rare for the father and daughter.


    Matthew came to inspect Paul with the nurses and was satisfied with Paul¡¯s signs. Matthew told Josic,


    ¡°It¡¯s a miracle that Mr. Warren woke up. He just needs to recuperate and rest well after this. Everything


    is fine.¡±


    Josie was overjoyed, and she thanked him sincerely. ¡°Matt, thank you for the past four years.¡±


    After the two had talked things through thest time, Matthew could only restrain his adoration for her.


    He forced a smile. ¡°It¡¯s what I should do. I hope that you won¡¯t feel burdened from today onward.¡±


    Josie pulled him to one side and asked softly, ¡°Aren¡¯t there any residual effects after he was in aa


    for four years?¡±


    Matthew was silent as he pondered. He was honest. ¡°His memory might be poor.¡±


    ¡°Is it severe? He looks good now.¡±


    ¡°Not very. Mr. Warren might not remember very well memories from long ago. You can help to jog his


    memory.¡± Matthew exined.


    Josie didn¡¯t quite understand but said, ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡±


    After Paul awoke, it alerted many of his old friends. They immediately came with gifts, and Josie was


    pushed to the corner as she watched them in exasperation.


    She thought about it and called the man. The call went through, but no one answered.


    Josie called again, and it was answered this time. ¡°Dex.


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    I¡¯m Summer.¡± The other party was honest. ¡°Dex and I are in a meeting, and his cell phone is with me.


    Why are you looking for him?¡±


    With the tone Summer used, it was as though she was Dexter¡¯s wife.


    It was an honest exnation, but Josie could feel their closeness upon closer inspection. Summer


    must have been someone important to keep Dexter¡¯s personal cell phone.


    Josie choked. ¡°I understand. May I trouble you to pass a message to him to call me? I have something


    urgent to tell him.¡°


    She was just about to hang up when Summer asked, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Family matters.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Just remember what I said.¡± After that, Summer hung up.


    Josie leaned against the wall and watched Paul surrounded by people. For a moment, she had


    complex feelings.


    She was in the hospital the whole day today. Wyatt called her and thanked her for conquering Mark. ¡°If


    he¡¯s willing to invest money, funding won¡¯t be too big a problem once the project is in operation.¡±


    Josie was a lot more relieved. ¡°That¡¯s good. By the way, can you help me with something. Wyatt?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Tell me.¡±


    ¡°Help me¡­ look for a house.¡±


    ¡°House? Are you¡­


    ¡°Yes, for a long-term stay. It would be best if it¡¯s suitable for older people to live and recuperate in. It


    can¡¯t be too far from the city center either, Josie continued, ¡°help me look for one. I¡¯ll pay you once you


    find a suitable one.¡±


    She still had money that she had saved up. She could rent a house.


    Paul wouldn¡¯t stay too long in the hospital in his condition. He had to stay in a proper ce. It would be


    impossible to return to the Warren family.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so polite. Leave it to me. I¡¯ll arrange for it within two days.¡±


    She was satisfied by that.


    When Jenny heard that Paul had awoken, she insisted on rushing to the hospital. Josie¡¯s bodyguards


    asked Josie for instructions, and Josie said, ¡°Let her try, but don¡¯t let her in.¡±

 Chapter 397

    Chapter 397


    Chapter 397 His Feelings


    Paul had learned of Jenny¡¯s actions in the past four years. He told Josie, ¡°I¡¯ll divorce her once I


    recover.¡±


    His son was nowhere to be seen before his bed. Furthermore, Josie wasn¡¯t his biological daughter, but


    she still cared for him faithfully for four years. Her devotion to him was evident. It would be disgraceful


    of him if he didn¡¯t believe her.


    Furthermore, his rtionship with Jenny had long fizzled out.


    In the evening. Dexter called Josie back. When her cell phone rang, she was eating with her dad. He


    nced at her phone and said, ¡°You can answer it.¡±


    Josie got up. Dexter must have been in a long meeting because his voice was hoarse. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Josie was dumbstruck. She wanted to say something but couldn¡¯t. She hadplicated feelings. ¡°I¡¯ll


    be waiting for you at Mason Garden tonight around ten. Can youe back for a while?¡±


    He was silent and only agreed after a moment.


    Josie didn¡¯t stay overnight at the hospital tonight. She left early and loitered nearby before ultimately


    going to Heaven on Earth.


    Calvin personally greeted her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie hugged her knees and sat on the couch. Her long hair fell and covered half her face. She


    watched as Calvin personally poured her a cup of tea, and the mist slowly rose from its warmth. She


    said honestly, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to face our path in the future. I had no other way, so I came to look for


    you.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know why. She had been enduring it for a year but suddenly didn¡¯t want to hold on any


    longer.


    Calvin nodded. As someone on the inside, he knew everything better than anyone else.


    It was because she cared enough.


    A smile was on the corners of Calvin¡¯s lips. He said, Josic, do you think Dexter has no feelings for


    you?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious? Have you seen anyone who is so merciless to the woman they like? He¡¯s indecisive


    between me and her, and he just let me take on the debt of one billion.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Calvin smiled. ¡°If that¡¯s what you think, you should get one thing straight before you get confused. You


    don¡¯t actually understand Dexter.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows tightly. She didn¡¯t understand what he meant.


    ¡°I don¡¯t dare to say how much I understand you, but I know Dexter well enough¡­ Furthermore, you¡¯re


    at the end of the road. If you don¡¯t hold on to him, it goes without saying how difficult it will be from now


    1.


    ¡°Let me tell you a story. You know that Dexter has a unique identity. Even while he was overseas, many


    secretly wanted him. In war, finding someone¡¯s soft spot is the best strategy. Back then, everyone


    thought his soft spot was Summer, and a gang kidnapped her to threaten Dexter. Guess what he did.


    He was incredibly calm and didn¡¯t spend any money. He ignored the other party¡¯s threat of killing the


    hostage and saved Summer by himself. But of course, I¡¯m not telling you that she¡¯s unimportant to him.


    In reality, she¡¯s not important enough.¡±


    ¡°From what I can remember, Dexter has always been synonymous with being calm and indifferent. But


    recently, when he stayed here for a few days, he went nuts when fooling around. Although that was the


    case, he didn¡¯t touch any woman. I can see that something has changed in him. Don¡¯t doubt me. I have


    no need to lie to you.¡±


    Calvin picked up a teacup and handed it to Josie, smiling nonchntly.


    ¡°When did this happen?¡± Josie didn¡¯t know about it.


    ¡°While you were recovering. It was also when Dexter¡¯s rumors with Summer were widely reported.¡±

 Chapter 398

    Chapter 398


    Chapter 398 He¡¯s Not Back


    ¡°Think about it carefully. Has Dexter ever given you a chance while entangled with other people? He


    wasn¡¯t the only reason you must take up the debt of one billion


    Josie felt it was a lot to process, and she looked at Calvin in a daze. She subconsciously retorted, ¡°He


    said our marriage is purely business.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t listen to him. Look at how you feel.¡±


    At ten at night in Mason Garden.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell isn¡¯t¡­ at home today, a servant said to Josie respectfully and apologetically.


    The confidence she had from Calvin¡¯s conversation vanished at once. Josie had imagined Dexter¡¯s


    reactions when he saw her, whether he would look at her coldly or contemptuously. She was ready for


    all of it. But he didn¡¯t even return in the end!


    Josie kepta calm demeanor. ¡°Do you know where he went?¡±


    I don¡¯t.


    Josie hesitated for a moment. She couldn¡¯t do anything else. She entered the master bedroom and


    waited for Dexter¡¯s return there. It was already ten o¡¯clock. If he hadn¡¯t returned, what was he doing?


    There was no change in the master bedroom¡¯syout. His strong scent was in the air. Her heart raced


    time she breathed in. It made her long for him.


    every


    The bed was messy. Josie clearly remembered that it was neat before she left.


    The door to the balcony was open. When Josie walked out, she smelled a strong odor of cigarettes.


    Josie frowned out of habit. She disliked such a smell.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Sheposed herself and realized that the ashtray on the table was filled with cigarette butts. Some


    were extinguished halfway through. The room was silent, and Josie¡¯s heart trembled. She heard


    nothing but the


    breeze.


    Dexter didn¡¯t return in the end. She didn¡¯t like feeling cold, so she shriveled in bed, only taking up a


    small


    coffier


    When Josie opened her eyes again, what enveloped her was still the silent darkness. It was ice cold.


    She found her cold cell phone in bed. She turned on the screen, and the time showed that it was three


    in the morning


    He had yet to return.


    Josie¡¯s drowsiness instantly disappeared. She forcefully sat up and slowly bent her legs. She hugged


    her knees and suddenly felt very defeated and upset. Look you overestimated yourself.


    She stayed in that position for a long time until she heard the sudden click of the door opening. She


    looked up abruptly like a deer in headlights Unimaginable thoughts yed out in her mind, and her


    guard was up.


    In the pitch-dark room, Josie heard careless footsteps from the direction of the bathroom. They walked


    to the bed, carrying a familiar shower scent. She only heard her heart beating loudly and clearly like a


    drum.


    The other party walked to the bed and stopped in front of her.


    Josie felt his burning gaze on her. It was hard to bear.


    After a while, the other party finally moved. He suddenly crouched down and reached out both hands


    as though wanting to hug her. His arms passed through her trembling figure, and she held her breath


    as she


    shivered.


    He leaned closer and turned on a nightlight on the bedside table behind her.


    There was suddenly light.


    Everything came into vision, and Josie widened her eyes in a daze as she looked at what was


    happening before her. The man was as handsome as usual. At that moment, his face was mere inches


    away from hers. He was crouched down, kneeling next to her on one knee. Only a towel was around


    his waist, and she could see everything else. His body was still wet after his shower, and his eyes were


    eerily bright.

 Chapter 399

    Chapter 399


    Chapter 399 His Softer Side


    He had a silent yet imposing demeanor. Josie¡¯s anxiety peaked at this moment, and everything she had


    prepared to say suddenly vanished.


    It was too abrupt. Josie didn¡¯t know how to react for ? moment.


    You¡¯re back, Josie said softly when she came to her senses slightly.


    But at the next moment, the man exerted force and pounced on her. He forcefully pushed her down.


    beneath him, and Josie gasped lightly. Her hands pushed against his firm and muscr chest.


    The man¡¯s gaze was slightly thoughtful. He buried her head in her neck and finally said, ¡°When did you


    Josie¡¯s heart was still beating furiously. ¡°Don¡¯t you know?¡±


    ¡°Were you nning to keep waiting like this if I didn¡¯t return today?¡±


    His warm breath sprayed into her delicate ear. It itched slightly.


    ¡°I said I would wait for you¡­.


    Dexter stirred slightly.


    ¡°My engagement was too long, and I was held up,¡± he exined to her.


    He thought of how the servant on duty told him when he returned to the vi not long ago that Josie


    had been waiting for him for a long time.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    When he opened the master bedroom¡¯s door, the woman was shriveled up on the bed and had fallen


    asleep. She was sleeping quietly and soundly and only took up a small part of the corner. Her ck


    hair was spread out, and her pale face was slightly flushed.


    It was as though Dexter¡¯s restless heart had suddenly found its home the moment he saw her. He


    wanted. to wake the woman, but he stopped. He backed away and sat at one side, silently sizing her


    up with a dim light.


    She seemed to have dreamed of something, and her chest suddenly heaved. She was mumbling and


    saying something softly.


    He leaned closer to hear and was astonished. Josie was saying, ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    He understood her thoughts.


    Josie had an air of arrogance, but she wasn¡¯t stubborn. She was good at giving in and knew how to


    solve her problems. She didn¡¯t have outstanding abilities, but she was good at moving others in small


    ways.


    It¡¯s enough. Dexter thought to himself as he pushed her down.


    She showed her softer side by taking this step toward him, which hit his soft spot. At such a stage, he


    didn¡¯t hesitate.


    His kissesnded on her lips one after another before moving to her shoulders and neck. He quickly


    warmed her up, and she started to feel hot. He familiarly undid her clothes. Josie didn¡¯t understand


    him. She restrained herself and cried, ¡°I have something to say¡­


    But she scarcely realized that her soft cries aroused his desires.


    Dexter¡¯s hand paused for a split second and only a split second. He was fired up again. ¡°Keep it to


    yourself. I can¡¯t guarantee I¡¯ll show mercy after you tell me.¡±


    In other words, he meant, don¡¯t speak if you don¡¯t want to be tormented tonight.


    Josie wasn¡¯t stubborn. She knew his ways, and she stopped resisting.


    The sound of her clothes ripping brought Josie back to her senses. She suddenly thought of


    something, and her eyes widened. Dexter moved faster than her and sat up a little. He looked down,


    sized up her outfit amid the chaos, and smiled faintly. ¡°Josie Warren, you dressed in such a way to talk


    to such a dangerous man like me?¡±


    He said thest two words in a higher pitch.


    Josie only wore ck silk shorts, and nothing was concealed. Under the dim amber light, the woman¡¯s


    porcin skin was tantalizing. Anything close fitting roused him.


    It invoked his emotions, his desires, and his heart.


    Josie¡¯s face flushed a crimson red. She knew she had nowhere to escape, so she gave up and turned


    her head away as a sign of silent resistance.

 Chapter 400

    Chapter 400


    Chapter 400 I¡¯m Sorry


    At the next moment, the man quickly removed her hands, and the desire in his eyes was unrestrained.


    His changes were evident, and his warm body enveloped hers. His voice was gratingly hoarse. ¡°You


    enticed me, Josie,¡±


    The two bodies that hadn¡¯te into contact with each other for a long time were familiarly intertwined


    with boundless lust. They went all the way and spent a passionate night together.


    What could men entice women with?


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Their skills, good looks, and belongings.


    Dexter happened to have all of the above.


    When it ended, the sun had risen entirely outside. The woman¡¯s hair was soaked under him. He


    narrowed his eyes, and she looked pristine.


    Dexter suddenly felt something scratch his chest. It itched. He leaned over and smiled brightly at her.


    ¡°Good morning.


    Josie wanted to push him away but had no strength.


    The man felt rxed even though he had exerted more energy. He picked her up from the bed and


    carried her into the bathroom.


    Dexter gently ced Josie into the bathtub filled with warm water. As he washed her body in the water


    with a towel, Josie couldn¡¯t stand the pressure when he reached her bosom. She grabbed his hand and


    said, ¡°I have something to say.¡±


    That¡¯s right. Josie persevered as he conquered her forcefully because she was waiting to speak.


    Dexter didn¡¯t react. After a long time, he said thoughtfully, ¡°Are you sure you want to tell me now?¡±


    Josie froze and immediately let go of his hand. She said dully, ¡°Yes.¡±


    This time, Dexter didn¡¯t stop her. He continued cleaning her and said indifferently, ¡°Tell me.¡±


    She almost couldn¡¯t get the words out when faced with his headstrong attitude.


    Calvin was right. Even if she didn¡¯t think of herself, she had to think of her future.


    She had to hold on to Dexter regardless of the reason.


    She took a deep breath, and in a spurt of energy, she spoke extremely indifferently. ¡°For so long, I kept


    warning myself. You ruthlessly pushed me into the target of criticism and chose to sacrifice me. You


    treated me poorly, and I wanted to note it down so I could slowly retaliate twofold¡­ but¡­ but I¡­¡±


    She was being unintelligible, and it was hard to understand her. All her great words were useless at


    that


    moment.


    Dexter didn¡¯t stop. He stood behind her and gathered her hair before tying it into a bun. The marks of


    his kisses appeared on the back of her neck.


    He finally said, ¡°But you can¡¯t bear to. Am I right?¡±


    Josie shivered slightly, and she felt that the water in the bathtub had suddenly be bone-chilling.


    Calvin hadn¡¯t lied to her. Dexter was brilliant, and he could see through anyone¡¯s deepest emotions. He


    was like an all-knowing mirror regarding certain things. But he didn¡¯t expose Josie as a way of retaining


    her dignity.


    ¡°Although I don¡¯t think I did anything wrong this time, I want to apologize for standing on the opposite


    end and creating trouble for you.¡± Her apology was sincere.


    Various emotions surged in Dexter¡¯s eyes. He carried her up and put a towel around her like a child.


    Only her head was seen. Her big and wide eyes were looking at him apprehensively.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re saying such things. Is it really you?¡±


    ¡°Also, Josie ignored him and continued, ¡°my father woke up.¡±


    As he was drying her hair, his actions stopped.

 Chapter 401

    Chapter 401


    Chapter 401 Interrogating His Son-In-Law


    Josie took a nap and slept until the afternoon. Opening her eyes, she realized Dexter had awoken and


    was working on the couch.


    ¡°Are you up?¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡± Her eyes weren¡¯t fully open.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the hospital after you freshen up.¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡± Josie was in a daze but quickly came to her senses. ¡°Hmm?!¡±


    She wanted Dexter to go to the hospital and visit her dad with her. Still, she never thought he would


    initiate it before she even mentioned it.


    In the evening, Josie and Dexter walked into the hospital room together. They seemed to beughing


    and chatting with each other.


    Dexter was handsome, and he had gifts in his hands. It was an astonishing scene at one nce.


    It wasn¡¯t the head nurse¡¯s first time seeing him. She was very friendly. ¡°Ah, you¡¯re here again, Mr.


    Russell How thoughtful.¡±


    Dexter was courteous and polite. ¡°I came to visit my elder.¡±


    The word ¡®elder¡¯ was vague.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The head nurse¡¯s gaze fell on his hand that was holding Josie¡¯s. She paused and continued smiling.


    She moved away, and Paul, resting on the hospital bed, saw Dexter.


    Dexter leaned over and shook Paul¡¯s hand with a smile. ¡°Mr. Warren, I¡¯m Jo¡¯s husband. I¡¯m sorry for


    coming sote. I¡¯ve been busy recently.¡±


    Paul had been delighted when he learned his daughter was married, but his pupils shrank when he


    saw Dexter¡¯s appearance. It was as though he saw something unimaginable. The grip of his


    handshake tightened. ¡°You¡±


    Dexter looked at Paul cautiously and furrowed his brows. His feigned kindness faded.


    Paul shivered at Dexter¡¯s gaze.


    Josie was already nervous. She subconsciously wanted to walk forward when she saw the two silent.


    At that moment, Paul smiled. ¡°Hello. I heard Jo mention it. Are you a Russell?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Dexter Russell. You can call me Dex.


    Paul had a radiant smile.


    Josie felt anxious. Not many called Dexter ¡®Dex. Now, Dexter added her dad to the list.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Paul pointed at Josie. ¡°Leave for a while. I want to talk to Dex in private.¡±


    Dexter smiled in response.


    ¡°Huh? What are you going to talk about?¡± Josie didn¡¯t know what her dad wanted to say, but the head


    nurse was wise and pushed Josie out of the room. ¡°Don¡¯t you understand? Your dad wants to


    interrogate him?¡±


    Josie subconsciously wanted to enter again when the door shut but was stopped. ¡°What are you


    doing? Are you so concerned for your man?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not¡­ Josie couldn¡¯t say why. She couldn¡¯t think of what her dad and Dexter would talk about. They


    seemed to be from different worlds.


    ¡°Never mind.¡±


    She walked to a bench in the corridor and sat down. It was a wonderful feeling. Someone was


    supporting her, and she was no longer alone.


    ¡°I think Mr. Russell is pretty good but doesn¡¯t seem ordinary. It¡¯s alright for your dad to talk to his son-in-


    Josie thought to herself. That¡¯s what I¡¯m afraid of.


    At that moment, in the room.


    Dexter was standing, towering over the old man on his sickbed, because Paul had said, ¡°You¡¯re Dexter


    Russell from Russell Group.¡±


    Paul was confident. It astonished Dexter.


    ¡°Do you know who I am, Mr. Warren?¡±


    Paul looked at him for a long time and suddenlyughed. I¡¯ve been bedridden and can only watch


    television. I see you on the news every day. How can I not recognize you?¡±


    I see.


    Dexter nodded. He was aware that Paul was his father-inw.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Warren. I¡¯ll treat Jo well.¡±


    Paul¡¯s gaze drifted, and he seemed to be using a lot of effort to speak. ¡°How did you two meet?¡±

 Chapter 402

    Chapter 402


    Chapter 402 Asking for Their Divorce


    Dexter answered in a well-behaved manner, ¡°She¡¯s a Russell Group employee, and I fell for her at first


    sight.¡±


    ¡°Which part of her attracted you?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t seem very confident in your daughter, Mr. Warren.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have an ordinary identity,¡± Paul said calmly. Although he was in aa for four years, he


    was a good judge of character. Nothing Dexter did was ordinary. Paul wouldn¡¯t believe it if nothing else


    was involved in the marriage.


    ¡°Jo is now Mrs. Russell. I will protect her thoroughly, whether among the society or the internal Russell


    family. Please don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°What about everything else?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°What if I want you to divorce Jo? Can you do it?¡±


    Dexter raised the corner of his eye slightly. He was a little surprised. He seemed to understand who


    Josie inherited her temper from.


    ¡°Is something wrong with me?¡± He guessed it was because of his identity, and Paul feared his daughter


    would feel wronged.


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    ¡°You¡¯re the business executor of Russell Group. You can have any woman you want. Jo is gullible. As


    her father, I have to think about her future.


    His words were filled with distrust and doubt.


    Dexter adjusted Paul¡¯s IV. He guessed that Paul must have seen the tabloids, so he said indifferently,


    I¡¯m afraid not.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Paul was vignt.


    Dexter sat down. It was as though he was in a negotiation. ¡°I didn¡¯t sign any prenuptial agreement with


    her. She will suffer much hardship if we separate someday.¡±


    ¡°She is now Mrs. Russell and lives a great life. My grandfather treats her well, and there¡¯s no reason to


    get a divorce.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to get into unnecessary details about our rtionship. I¡¯ve fulfilled my duty bying to


    visit you today. It¡¯s my responsibility. As I said, I will treat Jo well.¡±


    This was genuine.


    A man was convincing another man and requesting to take care of his daughter.


    Paul slowly calmed down. It seemed like he knew he couldn¡¯t reverse a desperate situation, so he shut


    his eyes and kept quiet.


    Dexter waited patiently.


    Paul finally spoke after a long time. His voice trembled slightly. ¡°I want you to sign a divorce agreement


    with your name on it, then give it to me for safekeeping.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression changed.


    Paul was trying to gain the upper hand on Dexter after awakening from hisa.


    Dexter froze for a moment, and his brows instantly furrowed.


    But Dexter quicklyposed himself. He had a cold andplicated expression.


    Paul smiled, and he looked like a kind, older man. ¡°I just want a safeguard for my daughter. Is it too


    much to ask, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was dangerous. He tried to regain control. ¡°If I don¡¯t want to, what will you do?¡±


    Paul didn¡¯t panic. He didn¡¯t see much in this young man, but he could see that Dexter cared for Josie.


    ¡°Then I¡¯m afraid there will be a barrier between you and Jo because of me.¡±


    Dexter quickly weighed the pros and cons mentally. Perhaps he was already at a disadvantage in some


    ways.


    Dexter left the hospital room half an hourter.


    Josie immediately looked up. ¡°What did my dad say to you?¡±


    Dexter wrapped his arms around her delicate waist tightly. Indistinct yet visible resentment was on his


    face. He said, ¡°He just asked about work.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Dexter suddenly had a piercing gaze as he scrutinized Josie¡¯s reaction.


    She was worried and nervous.


    Why is she nervous?


    The man had a faint smile. ¡°Josie, are you afraid that I¡¯ll hurt your family?¡±


    Josie was momentarily startled.

 Chapter 403

    Chapter 403


    Chapter 403 Divorce Agreement


    This went without saying.


    But they were husband and wife. Could Josie say such a thing? She couldn¡¯t answer.


    The two were silent, and it weighed on their emotions.


    ¡°I was just asking. Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡± In the end, Dexter reached out to pat her head.


    To Josie, it felt like he was coaxing a puppy.


    He knew Josie had requested Wyatt to look for a house, so he said, ¡°Since you¡¯ve asked him for help,


    you don¡¯t have to torment yourself. I will pay him. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡± He paused. ¡°This includes


    your dad¡¯s follow¨Cup/treatment and rehabilitation. Someone will take over.¡±


    Josie leaned against the wall as she listened to him. She looked at him thoughtfully. ¡°Mr: Russell, is this


    the benefit of confessing my feelings?¡±


    Dexter looked slightly displeased. ¡°These are Mrs. Russell¡¯s privileges.¡±


    ¡°Oh, privileges. But, of course, not everyone can take up a debt of one billion,¡± Josie said peculiarly,


    Dexter held her waist. It was a threat. ¡°Russell Group will help Wyatt¡¯s project from the inside. Cashflow


    will resume within a month. It won¡¯t take too long to repay the debt of one billion.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up. After she was honest with himst night, he seemed to be different. At this time, she


    understood what Calvin had said. I must think about my future.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    The following day, the IT department came to justify their work. Dexter overruled almost everything they


    said. He was in a foul mood, and they were asking for trouble because they had the nerve to present


    items of poor quality for Dexter to look over.


    His secretary silently sympathized with her colleagues as she stood behind Dexter. They couldn¡¯t avoid


    working overtime for at least one week.


    Dexter chased them out and sipped his coffee. His temper didn¡¯t seem to have dissipated.


    His secretary gripped the documents in her hands tightly. She felt like crying, but she braced herself


    instead. ¡°Mr. Russell, this is the divorce agreement you instructed me to draft. There are two copies.¡±


    The secretary was sure that this document¡­ was the cause of Dexter¡¯s bad mood. His expression was


    icy. But this was a divorce agreement¡­


    ¡°Stop guessing. Josie is still Mrs. Russell.¡± Dexter suddenly looked down and red.


    The secretary hung her head and didn¡¯t think about it further. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Dexter signed his name with much force. It looked unsightly on the paper.


    ¡°Send them to the hospital.¡± Dexter recited an address. ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone see this.¡±


    He threw the other copy into a drawer in his office.


    Dexter generously added other privileges to the agreement besides the reasonable conditions Paul had


    raised.


    If they divorced, he would give three percent of the shares under his name to Josie, including the


    Mason Garden property, a few vis overseas, and the farm.


    It was worth a lot.


    The countless zeros showed how well he was treating her.


    He was repaying her sincere feelings.


    After leaving her job at Russell Group, Josie had been helping Wyatt. It wasn¡¯t easy for her to settle


    down, and she wasn¡¯t in a rush to look for a new job. She spent her time with Paul.


    After some difficulty, he was discharged, and Josie arranged a house for him. She kept himpany


    as he recuperated every day. Dexter visited him several times but didn¡¯t stay long because he was


    busy.


    Paul thought of something and brought up Old Mr. Russell. ¡°Now that I¡¯ve recovered slightly, is it time to


    put your wedding back on the agenda?¡±


    Josie was surprised and avoided his inquiring gaze. ¡°We haven¡¯t talked about this with Grandpa yet.


    Pop, we¡¯ve been married for over a year. We don¡¯t care about such formalities. It¡¯s fine.

 Chapter 404

    Chapter 404


    Chapter 404 Returning A Favor


    ¡°Since it¡¯s a formality, you can see if he cares for you. Jo, I know you, and I know what he must do to


    give you a sense of security.¡± Paul pulled her arm. ¡°Is there an ulterior motive?¡±


    No matter what, Josie couldn¡¯t be honest. ¡°No¡­ We¡¯ll do itter. He¡¯s busy recently.¡±


    If Summer saw them having a wedding, she would want to kill Josie.


    This was no longer concerning just the two of them. It was a power struggle.


    Josie received news from Arnold one weekter. He told her that his wedding with Eileen was


    canceled, and the debt of one billion was repaid.


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how he had done it.


    ¡°I heard that you¡¯re now free?¡± Arnold¡¯s voice sounded rxed on the phone.


    Josie quickly understood what he meant. ¡°I¡¯m not in a rush to work.¡±


    ¡°Help me do something since I saved you once.¡±


    Josie was dumbstruck.


    He wanted her to help Carter Group close a project. There waspetitive bidding on a new area in


    Wavery.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not Russell Group¡¯spetitor this time,¡± Arnold said half¨Cteasingly, but he was


    considerate.


    Josie was relieved. Ultimately, she asked, ¡°How did you save Carter Group?¡±


    ¡°Dexter and I have information on each other.¡± Arnold avoided her question. His voice was cold. ¡°Josie,


    he can neverpletely defeat me. No matter how many times he tries, neither side will win.¡±


    His animosity was apparent. Josie thought of his father and didn¡¯t ask further.


    She stayed upte daily to work to prepare the tender document for him because of the favor she owed


    him.


    Dexter didn¡¯t ask much when he saw her suddenly getting busy. She wasn¡¯t sure if he knew that Carter


    Group was participating in thepetitive bidding. Still, she didn¡¯t n to say anything before he


    asked.


    After a few days, Dexter returned to Mason Garden at eleven at night. He looked for her in the master


    bedroom and the study room but didn¡¯t see Josie.


    He asked the servants, ¡°Is Josie back yet?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. Maybe she¡¯s still with her father.¡±


    Just as Dexter was about to drive out to look for her, Mason Garden¡¯s doors were opened. Josie was


    back with a pile of documents.


    Her first reaction was to frown when she saw him. After that, she recalled that he seemed to have


    called her at noon and told her he would return to Mason Garden tonight.


    She was so busy that she forgot.


    He was still in a suit, so he must not have returned too long ago.


    Josie opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, she lost control of the documents in her


    hands, and they fell to the floor.


    The man¡¯s hands appeared in her view. Dexter crouched down and helped pick up her documents


    before pulling her up. ¡°Why did you bring work home?¡±


    Josie was slightly nervous. ¡°¡­ I¡¯ve been a little busy recently.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t push, and she quickly finished her work.


    Josie tried her best to focus on work! When she finished thest word, a steaming te ofsagna was


    beside her.


    When she looked up, she saw Dexter¡¯smanding gaze. ¡°Finish it.¡±


    A servant poured a ss of water for Josie.


    Dexter watched her eat. Perhaps she was famished. Her cheeks puffed up like a chipmunk, and her


    eyes were/bright.


    A subtle smile was in the corners of the man¡¯s mouth.


    Such a harmonious air was unreal to both of them. It was as though nothing had happened, and they


    were just an ordinary couple.

 Chapter 405

    Chapter 405


    Chapter 405 I Can¡¯t Afford Your Apology


    He picked up one of her documents. When he looked at the first page, he raised his brows in surprise.


    ¡°Carter Group joined thepetitive bidding for this project?¡±


    Josie¡¯s actions stopped, and she was slightly nervous. ¡°I¡¯m returning a favor¡­ This is thest time.¡±


    Dexter quickly skimmed through the document, and she didn¡¯t know what he was thinking. ¡°Aren¡¯t you


    angry?¡±


    ¡°Arnold used almost two years¡® profit to survive this crisis. It¡¯s hard for me to get angry.¡±


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    ¡°It seems like you¡¯re the final victor of this battle,¡± she teased him softly.


    Dexter stared at her plump and fair side profile. He never thought that Arnold would give up the funds


    in the end rather than go through a marriage of convenience. He was never someone who cared about


    his own marriage.


    He came to his senses and asked a few questions consecutively. ¡°How confident are you? Can you


    convince the executives to give Carter Group the project? Are you confident with the funds, the current


    technological measures, or your designs?¡±


    The outline of Dexter¡¯s face looked sharp from Josie¡¯s point of view. It was his usual shrewdness.


    Josie paused. She knew he was intentionally giving her advice.


    But in other words, he was undoubtedly saying that her tender document was rubbish¡­..


    She fell silent. ¡°Carter Group has its advantages. Regarding factory prospect nning, other


    companies may not necessarily be the executives¡® best choice.¡±


    Dexter subconsciously wanted to retort that Carter Group was full of problems, and they wouldn¡¯t be


    chosen in a fiercepetition.


    But his words were stuck in his throat. He restrained himself from saying anything else.


    Josie rose since he didn¡¯t answer her. She walked into the master bedroom and shut the bathroom


    door hard.


    Dexter examined the content of the tender document again. He smiled bitterly as he was reading it.


    After all, she had worked hard on it.


    Josie was upset with him for a long time. After her shower, she sat on the bed and amended the tender


    document with a pencil. She circled and made notes on it, and its rustling noise sounded like she was


    angry at him.


    Dexter tried to coax her but to no avail. Ultimately, he suddenly reached out and took the document


    away from her. He threw it on the table with a slight temper. ¡°Stop looking at it.¡±


    Josie red and tried to snatch it away, but the man stopped her. She was in a temper, so she threw


    the pencil in her hand.


    The pencil flew past his ear with a slight breeze.


    The man used his strength to push her down below him. He said in her ears, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Josie was furious, and she wanted to destroy the man.


    She said nothing, so Dexter repeated, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¨C


    He was the bigger person. It was moving to see him do such a mundane thing as he acted coy and


    asked for forgiveness from his wife that he had angered.


    Josie¡¯s heart raced, and panic streaked across her eyes.


    After a while, she hugged his waist and said nonchntly, ¡°You¡¯re so amazing, Mr. Russell. I can¡¯t


    afford an apology from you.¡±


    Dexter buried his head in her neck and smirked.


    His arms hugged her waist and lingered. ¡°I¡¯ll help you edit this tender document.¡±


    Carter Group¡¯spetitive bid was one weekter.


    It was calm in the morning, and Josie awoke in the man¡¯s warm embrace.


    After that, the two didn¡¯t talk much. They didn¡¯t talk about work at all and only spoke about their


    mundane everyday life.


    She left early and had gone far away when Dexter called after her. He had a coat and carefully put it on


    her. ¡°It¡¯s cold in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Rx.¡±


    He didn¡¯t say anything else. He only said that.

 Chapter 406

    Chapter 406


    Chapter 406 Don¡¯t Disappoint Me


    Josie put her hands into her pockets and smiled lightly. ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    The man in a cotton shirt put his hands behind his back as he stood on the patio. He watched Josie¡¯s


    car drive further away, and his loving gaze disappeared when the car vanished from view. He became


    the aloof Dexter Russell again.


    He sat at the dining table and continued eating his unfinished breakfast calmly. He asked his secretary


    on the phone, ¡°What¡¯s the schedule for this morning?¡±


    ¡°You have to participate in a meeting regarding the list of board members of the newly listedpany


    on the market under Russell Group. You must also find the time to meet the intellectual property rights


    president.¡±


    ¡°Push everything to the afternoon.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Carter Group¡¯spetitive bidding was held in the morning on the tenth floor of a particr hotel.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was attending on behalf of Carter Group. While waiting, she received a call.


    It was from Summer. ¡°I heard that your father woke up!¡±


    News had spread fast. Josie kept calm. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you would be so concerned about my father, Ms.


    Olsen. He did wake up.¡±


    Summer seemed to be ying with something. Josie heard something knocking into each other on her


    end. ¡°News about Dex going to the hospital to visit your father was kept confidential. Are you afraid of


    someone finding out?¡±


    ¡°Because Grandpa doesn¡¯t know. If he does, he will rush us to have a wedding.¡± Josie ignored her


    insinuations and justified the decision.


    ¡°Really? You¡¯re very thoughtful.¡± Summer sneered. ¡°But since your father is awake, you no longer have


    to rely on Dex. Isn¡¯t it the right time to free yourself? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re too attached and can¡¯t leave


    him, Ms. Warren.¡±


    This made Josie freeze. She gripped the proposal tightly. After a moment, she said, ¡°Guess where I am


    right now, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Summer was dumbfounded and didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°I¡¯m at apetitive bidding on behalf of Carter Group.¡±


    It rified her rtionship. She was helping Arnold andpeting against Dexter. Summer was


    intelligent and quickly understood.


    ¡°Don¡¯t disappoint me. Otherwise, I might do something outrageous.¡±


    Josie was in a cold sweat when the call ended.


    Paul had woken up, but she didn¡¯t dare to rx. Dexter was too fickle, Arnold was too siy, and Summer


    was untrustworthy. None of them could guarantee her safety. She had to send Paul away from Wavery


    before she couldpletely rx.


    The tenth¨Cfloor meeting room was surrounded by French windows. As Dexter stood outside, he could


    easily see Josie¡¯s actions. He was pleased as he saw her go on stage confidently.


    It was ordinarypetitive bidding, and many were astonished that Mr. Russell from Russell Group


    was there. No one expected it. A group of people were curious and wanted to watch him, so it caused a


    ruckus. Dexter¡¯s secretary stopped them. ¡°Mr. Russell is busy. Please don¡¯t leave a bad impression on


    him.¡±


    When it was Josie¡¯s turn to speak, she walked on stage and handed in her tender document before


    giving an ount of Carter Group¡¯s stand. She spoke eloquently and acted appropriately. Those who


    didn¡¯t know her would never suspect that she was,a neer in the workforce.


    At this time, someone recognized Dexter and rushed to greet him. ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter raised his hand. ¡°Ignore me. I was passing by and came to take a look.¡±


    His secretary¡¯s internal monologue was going wild. I think it was deliberate since you postponed all


    your work for the morning.


    ¡°Do what you need to. Make sure you¡¯re being fair and rational.¡± Dexter coughed lightly into his fist. At


    this time, his personal cell phone rang.


    It was from Mark.


    Dexter had a bad premonition. He looked up at Josie before turning to look for a quiet spot.


    The man returned to the meeting room and discussed with his colleagues behind closed doors.


    Josie took the opportunity toe out for a breath of fresh air and inadvertently saw a figure that


    resembled Dexter. She wanted to take another look, but it disappeared.

 Chapter 407

    Chapter 407


    Chapter 407 He¡¯s Not Back


    The results of thepetitive bidding were released half an hourter.


    Josie had left the venue, and Arnold¡¯s staff called her to inform her. ¡°Thank you, Ms. Warren. We won


    the project.¡±


    All content is ? N0velDrama.Org.


    Josie smiled. It was what she had expected because Dexter had personally written half the proposal.


    He hadn¡¯t done such a thing in many years. It was unimaginable.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    The other party paused. ¡°Mr. Carter wants to buy you a meal to thank you next week. Would you do


    him the honor?¡±


    A red light was ahead, and Josie¡¯s car stopped for a while. ¡°There¡¯s no need. Please help me tell him


    that I¡¯ve returned his favor. We can act as strangers the next time we meet.¡±


    The other party was startled. Josie had hung up.


    After that, she typed a message on her phone slowly before sending it. ¡®Are you free today?¡±


    There was no reply, so she sent another message. I¡¯m going to cook at my dad¡¯s ce. Do you want to


    come?¡¯


    There was still no reply, so she thought he must have been busy. Her lips curved slightly, and she kept


    her cell phone. She turned and headed to the supermarket.


    Paul was hard at work at his rehabilitation in his residence. He was surprised when he saw hering


    in with many bags. ¡°Why did you buy so much food? I can¡¯t finish it.¡±


    Josie smiled craftily. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m going to show off my skills today. You haven¡¯t tried my cooking in a


    long time, have you?¡±


    Paul looked at her adoringly, and his eyes were filled with regret. ¡°Yes. It¡¯s been a long time.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all your fault. You slept for so long, so you didn¡¯t have a chance to try my cooking,¡± Josie said as


    she started preparing the ingredients.


    Dexter sat down and helped her. It was rare for the father and daughter to have alone time, so they


    cherished it very much.


    ¡°You¡¯ve interacted a lot with Dr. Sander in these four years, right?¡± He asked half-jokingly.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Yes. Matt takes care of us a lot. I wouldn¡¯t know what to do without him


    these four years.¡±


    Paul nodded. ¡°So, did you ever like him?¡±


    Their conversation was moving too quickly, but Josie kept smiling. She shook her head.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°You like Dex so much?¡±


    Josie paused as she was peeling potatoes. After a moment, she nodded slowly and solemnly. ¡°Mm.


    Yes.¡±


    Paul understood. His daughter didn¡¯t want anyone but Dexter. He nodded slowly. ¡°Alright. That¡¯s good.¡±


    Josie never thought her admiration for someone could turn into love. It was a fascinating process. She


    wanted to stop, but she couldn¡¯t.


    She decided to stop being suspicious and jealous. She wanted to talk frankly and openly with Dexter. It


    would be best if he thought the same.


    Josie had great skills. She remembered that Dexter loved Italian food, so she made a variety of piping


    hot dishes that filled the table. They looked extremely enticing.


    But she looked at her cell phone a few times and didn¡¯t see a reply from Dexter.


    She pursed her lips and walked to the balcony. She called Dexter, but he didn¡¯t pick up. The endless


    beeping made her feel downcast. What is he doing? Is he so busy that he can¡¯t look at his cell phone


    all day?


    She sent another message. ¡®Are youing?¡±


    She still didn¡¯t receive a reply.


    The sun had set entirely, and the sky was dark. It was eight thirty at night. The news had ended, and


    the dishes were getting cold, but Dexter had yet to appear.


    Paul could guess what had happened when he saw his daughter¡¯s quiet demeanor. He said half-


    jokingly, ¡°You remembered that I like Italian food. Good job. Let me try.¡±


    Josie forced a smile and took some food for him. ¡°Alright, but you can¡¯t overeat. The doctor says you


    shouldn¡¯t eat too much sodium because it¡¯s bad for you. Just try a little of everything.¡±

 Chapter 408

    Chapter 408


    Chapter 408 They Look Well-Matched


    Paul nodded. He gave her a thumbs up andplimented her after he tried each dish.


    Josie was in a better mood after that but didn¡¯t eat much. She found to-go boxes in the kitchen and put


    a little of everything into the boxes. She covered them to stop them from getting cold.


    ¡°Pop, leave it there once you¡¯re done. I¡¯lle back and wash up.¡± Josie walked to the entrance and


    changed her shoes. ¡°I¡¯m going out for a while.¡±


    ¡°Jo, Paul called after her. He looked distressed. ¡°For someone like him, nothing he does is normal. If


    you can¡¯t take it, don¡¯t force yourself. Don¡¯t make yourself miserable.¡±


    In an instant, the rims of Josie¡¯s eyes reddened. She quickly turned away and acknowledged it.


    Russell Group was still brightly lit at this time. Corporate ves lived wretched lives.


    Josie had called Dexter¡¯s secretary in advance. She said, ¡°Mr. Russell? He¡¯s still in his office. Mr. Olsen


    is here, and they¡¯ve been swamped today. Other executives started a trade war, and Russell Group


    was involved. They¡¯re discussing strategies.¡±


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief when she heard the exnation. ¡°Alright. I understand.¡±


    ¡°Should I remind Mr. Russell to call you back?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. Let him work.¡± Josie smiled. She hung up and quickly walked into Russell Group.


    A security guard stopped her. I¡¯m sorry, you can¡¯t enter without tapping your card.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°I¡­ I used to work here. Don¡¯t you recognize me? It¡¯s me.¡±


    The security guard was put in a difficult situation, ¡°I do, but you can¡¯t enter without a card. This is the


    rule, Why don¡¯t you ask your friend toe and take you in?¡±


    Josie looked for herpany ID card in her bag, but it didn¡¯t work anymore because she had left. She


    couldn¡¯t admit to being Mrs. Russell either because no one would believe her.


    ¡°Never mind. I¡¯ll wait here.¡±


    Josie sat in a corner and put on a face mask. It would be too humiliating if her ex-colleagues


    recognized


    her.


    She didn¡¯t see a beautiful figure heading to the highest floor in Dexter¡¯s private elevator.


    Josie hugged the boxes of food and thought to herself. How busy is he? Can¡¯t he even nce at his


    cell phone?


    As she waited, the boxes in her hands were no longer warm. When she looked at the time, it was


    eleven o¡¯clock at night.


    Josie felt sore from sitting, so she stood up to move about. The security guard said, ¡°Who are you


    waiting for? Most people have left at this time. How busy is your friend?¡±


    Josie smiled and didn¡¯t say a word.


    Just as she turned around, she suddenly saw Dexter¡¯s figure outside the Russell Group building. He


    was shaking hands and saying goodbye to Mark. A dainty woman stood next to Mark. She had such a


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    distinguished demeanor that Josie knew it was Summer at one nce.


    Summer smiled brightly at Dexter. She even hugged him, and he didn¡¯t push her away.


    After that, Mark got into his car, seemingly to give the two alone time.


    Josie held her boxes of food and carefully walked closer.


    As it turned out, they hade down from Dexter¡¯s private elevator. It was no wonder she didn¡¯t see


    them.


    ¡°I look forward to the next time I see you, Sum. Dexter¡¯s cold voice seemed particrly romantic on this


    summer night.


    Summer turned and smiled. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Their conversation ended, and she left with Mark. Dexter put his hands behind his back and watched


    them drive off. After that, he went to the garage and didn¡¯t turn back.


    Josie watched for a while until her eyes hurt before she looked away.


    It was a beautiful scene when the three of them stood together. It was natural, and nothing looked out


    of ce.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how she felt, but she didn¡¯t call out to Dexter.

 Chapter 409

    Chapter 409


    Chapter 409 How Did You Offend a Superior?


    Dexter¡¯s secretary was waiting for him in the backseat of the car in the garage. After she finished


    reporting about work to him, Moses stopped the vehicle by the side of the road, and Dexter shut his


    eyes. He looked exhausted.


    Before the secretary exited the vehicle, she said cautiously, ¡°Mr. Russell, Mrs. Russell called me today.


    She seems to have been looking for you.¡±


    Dexter opened his eyes almost instantly. His gaze was ominous. ¡°When was this?¡±


    ¡°At night.¡±


    Dexter picked up his coat and looked for his personal cell phone. When he turned it on, he saw a few


    unread messages.


    His brows furrowed tightly. ¡°What were the results of Carter Group¡¯spetitive bidding?¡±


    ¡°As expected, they won.¡±


    Dexter instructed Moses to drive to Paul¡¯s house.


    It waste, and all the lights were turned off. Dexter waited outside the house and didn¡¯t go in. Under


    the glow of the streetlight, he seemed dignified yet lonely.


    Moses couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Why don¡¯t you exin it to her?¡±


    ¡°I missed the chance to. Anything I say after that is just an excuse.¡± Dexter massaged his temples and


    sighed ever so subtly.


    Josie was on thest train when her cell phone vibrated. It was a text from Dexter. I was too busy at


    work and didn¡¯t look at my cell phone.


    After a while, she received another message. ¡®Sleep well.


    She turned off her screen. She knew Dexter was swamped and didn¡¯t look at his cell phone. She


    empathized with him, but their divide seemed to grow for some reason. However, they were clearly


    trying hard to bridge the gap between them.


    The following day, Josie received a call from Alice. ¡°Jo, I heard the security guard say you came to


    Russell Groupst night but couldn¡¯t go in. Why didn¡¯t you call me? I could have helped you.¡±


    Josie paused, and she felt unspeakably pained. ¡°It wasn¡¯t important. Thanks anyway.¡±


    ¡°Why are you so polite with me?¡± Alice sighed. ¡°We haven¡¯t met in a while. Do you want to have dinner


    together?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Sure,


    When Josie arrived at the destination at night, she never imagined finding Alice and almost everyone


    from the design department waiting for her.


    She was slightly surprised when she saw the scene before her.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did you forget us after not seeing us for a while?¡± Someone joked. ¡°Or are you putting


    on airs because you won first ce?¡±


    It was familiar banter. Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. She suddenly felt choked up. ¡°I¡¯ll recognize you no


    matter what.¡±


    Everyoneughed.


    They were at a pasta restaurant again. Eating hearty bowls of pasta in the summer was a perfect


    combination.


    Alice pulled Josie and said, ¡°The design department¡¯s head position is vacant and unattended.


    Everyone missed you, so I asked if anyone wanted to join. I never thought everyone woulde.¡±


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    They had worked together for so long. They had a camaraderie even if they had gone up against each


    other.


    Josie felt choked up, and she opened a can of beer. She raised it and said to everyone, ¡°Thank you for


    remembering me, everyone. I was immature in the past and might have offended you while I was being


    rash. I hope you can forgive me and not take it to heart


    Someone quickly said, ¡°Nonsense. We went overboardst time and always picked on you. We hope


    you don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Don¡¯t say such things.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just forget it happened after this drink.


    Everyone finished their drink silently.


    After that, someone suggested, ¡°Josie, why don¡¯t you appeal to the higher level? Come back to Russell


    Group. The design department can¡¯t work without a head.¡±


    Josie¡¯s cheeks flushed, but her mind was sober. She couldn¡¯t return to Russell Group.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. How on earth did you offend a superior? Why were you suddenly terminated?¡±

 Chapter 410

    Chapter 410


    Chapter 410 Josie¡¯s Husband


    Alice observed Josie¡¯s bodynguage and saw that Josie was unwilling to talk, so she quickly stopped


    the rest from asking. ¡°Why are you so inquisitive? I¡¯m sure she didn¡¯t break thew.¡±


    Josie smiled gratefully at Alice.


    Amid the noise, Alice pulled Josie, ¡°How has your life been recently? Isn¡¯t your father in the hospital?


    Do you have enough money?¡±


    ¡°My father woke up.¡± Josie was only happy when she talked about her father.


    ¡°That¡¯s great.¡± Alice clinked sses with Josie. She was happy for Josie. ¡°What about your


    husband¡­¡­ Are you two alright?¡±


    Josie sipped her wine, and her face was crimson red. She yed dumb. ¡°It¡¯s the usual.¡±


    At the end of the dinner, Josie was drunk.


    Alice bid her colleagues farewell one by one as they left.


    Josiey on the table and spoke in an inebriated stupor. ¡°I want to go home¡­¡±


    Alice leaned closer. ¡°What?¡±


    It was as though Josie had suddenly suffered a great injustice. She started crying. I want to go home.¡±


    ¡°Go home?¡± But Alice didn¡¯t know where Josie lived.


    At this time, a male colleague had yet to leave. He walked to Josie and asked Alice, ¡°Why don¡¯t I send


    her home?¡±


    Alice thought about it and turned him down. She found Josie¡¯s cell phone and looked at her call record.


    She wanted to call Josie¡¯s family but couldn¡¯t find anyone to call.


    She looked at Josie¡¯s recent chat, and the person seemed to be Josie¡¯s husband, so Alice could only


    call the number.


    The other party only answered after a while and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Alice stuttered. Hello¡­ Is this Josie¡¯s husband?¡±


    At the same time, Josie was mumbling, and the male colleague asked, ¡°Are you okay, Josie?¡±


    Josie sounded terrible. Her voice was soft, and she clearly seemed drunk. The man on the other end of


    the call heard everything.


    Alice received the man¡¯s directions and sat waiting at the spot.


    But the male colleague didn¡¯t understand why Alice didn¡¯t want to leave. He said innocently. ¡°I drove. I


    can drive you home.¡±


    Alice felt awkward and could only say, ¡°It¡¯s alright. Nothing will happen with me around. You should go


    home. It¡¯ste.¡±


    The male colleague was uncertain. He looked down at Josie, and when he was just about to leave,


    Josie


    sobered up slightly. She looked up. ¡°I can continue drinking. I¡¯m not drunk!¡±


    The other two were bbergasted.


    Josie¡¯s face was flushed, and she spoke incoherently. She was really drunk.


    It was toote for Alice to regret it. She would have stopped Josie from drinking so much if she had


    known. She consoled Josie, ¡°We¡¯re leaving soon. Stop-drinking, okay?¡±


    Josie shook her head.


    The male colleague was amused, and he crouched down before Josie. This was his first time seeing


    her lose self-control. Although he knew she was outgoing, she was usually reserved in front of others.


    He never thought she would be like this after drinking.


    The male colleague deliberately teased her. ¡°Josie, who am I?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Dex¡­ Arnold?¡± Her vision was blurry.


    ¡°Arnold?¡± He didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Are you saying that I look like Arnold Carter?¡±


    Josie blinked and thought about it. ¡°No¡­¡±


    Her gaze suddenly drifted. She saw something, and her face crumpled. She suddenly started crying.


    Alice was surprised and followed her gaze.


    A tall and handsome figure stood impressively at the door. He wasn¡¯t that much older, and he had a


    terrible expression. His gaze was weathered yet cold.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    He looked familiar, but he seemed out of ce. He shouldn¡¯t have been in such a ce.


    Alice¡¯s eyes widened, and she gasped softly.


    After Dexter arrived and pushed the doors open, he saw an awful scene when he looked up. Josie


    looked unspeakably upset.

 Chapter 411

    Chapter 411


    Chapter 411 Not Her House


    After drinking too much, Josie seemed to have revealed her natural disposition. She looked terrified of


    Dexter.


    When he approached, Alice and the male colleague recognized him. They looked at each other and


    were utterly stunned.


    Why is Dexter Russell here?!


    How is he rted to Josie?!


    ¡°Mr¡­ Mr¡­¡±


    They couldn¡¯t say his name.


    Dexter didn¡¯t look at them. He walked to Josie and picked her up.


    Josie was initially conflicted, but she calmed down when she smelled the tobo on him. It was as


    though she had gone mad. She smiled and said, ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Dexter only looked at her from the start until the end. He silently patted her. ¡°Why did you drink?¡±


    Josie pursed her lips again, looking tearful like a child.


    Dexter carried her out, and his secretary helped take her belongings. She thanked Alice and the male


    colleague. ¡°You must keep everything you saw today a secret.¡±


    Dexter had been preupied with something important today. There was a trade war going on, and it


    was turbulent both domestically and internationally. As the leading enterprise, he was naturally


    affected. He still had to work a little, no matter what.


    Therefore, he had been swamped for the past few days.


    Josie messed


    up his ns with a phone call.


    Dexter had almost gone mad when he heard a man¡¯s voice.


    The woman in his arms was still squirming. For a moment, she didn¡¯t seem drunk. Shey in his arms


    and smiled when she looked up at him. She repeated, ¡°Why are you here, Dexter?¡±


    Dexter squeezed her cheeks hard. ¡°How would you go home if I didn¡¯te?¡±


    Josie suddenly got up and leaned close to him. She smelled of alcohol. ¡°But you didn¡¯te


    yesterday¡­¡±


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. You cane to Russell Group to look for me next time.¡±


    The rowdy woman suddenly quietened down. She thought of something, and her eyes were wet. She


    waved her hands. ¡°Never mind. You don¡¯t belong to me.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t easy to deal with an inebriated woman. Dexter understood many people¡¯s thoughts, but he


    couldn¡¯t understand the thoughts of a drunk woman.


    When they returned to Mason Garden, she still muttered, ¡°I want to go home,¡± while Dexter carried her


    into the bathroom.


    Dexter¡¯s actions paused. He didn¡¯t understand. ¡°You¡¯re home.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t my home.¡±


    She had sobered up slightly.


    Dexter¡¯s thin lips parted. ¡°So, where is your home? Is it Paul¡¯s house?¡±


    ¡°That isn¡¯t my home either. My home is where I have a mom and dad.¡±


    This made Dexter pause. Confused, he looked at the spirited woman and sympathized with her.


    ¡°Dexter, I don¡¯t have a mom and dad.¡±


    Dexter was distressed. He found arge towel and wrapped her up like a baby before carrying her to


    the bed. He kissed her eyes and was uncharacteristically gentle. ¡°Good girl. Go to sleep, okay?¡±


    He didn¡¯t know Josie¡¯s history. He only knew she hadn¡¯t been happy living with her biological family.


    Josie¡¯s cheeks were still flushed because she had drunk a lot. She felt a void in her heart, and she was


    desperate to fill it with something.


    Therefore, she took off her towel and suddenly pounced on Dexter. She didn¡¯t let him speak and


    started kissing him.


    She only dared to be so unrestrained because she knew he was Dexter.


    Dexter initially didn¡¯t want to touch Josie tonight, but she rarely initiated anything. He was quickly set


    aze and couldn¡¯t help but get excited. He still wasn¡¯t sick of her after so long.


    They spent a sensual night together.


    Looking at the gasping woman, he unexpectedly felt slightly depraved and¡­ satisfied.


    In a brief met of conce licked his lips. Dester low has inty Warren, you know the consequences

 Chapter 412

    Chapter 412


    Chapter 412 Abandon Everything for Her


    It was a reminder that she should not overstep her boundaries.


    Josie knew everything, but she feigned ignorance. She let drowsiness ovee her and closed her


    eyes to fall asleep.


    Russell Group was in a precarious situation. The ongoing trade disputes among the higher- ups


    adversely affected all businesses below. Unfortunately, none of the disputing parties showed signs of


    conceding.


    Therefore, Dexter had his hands full dealing with this matter.


    The matter was an inevitable source of headache for any owner of a major corporation. They would be


    the first to be dragged into any crisis of such level.


    When the news program ended at seven thirty in the evening, it was only seven thirty in the morning


    overseas. The matter worsened and spread for two hours until the oversea stock market reopened at


    nine-thirty in the morning, resulting in a severe drop in stock values in and out of the country. It was


    worse than everyone expected.


    The crisis continued to spread at an unstoppable scale,


    Reporters from various media showed up at Russell Group¡¯s doorstep. Some blew the crisis out of


    proportion, while others waited anxiously.


    Dexter had a press conferencest night but canceled it after receiving a phone call from Josie. He left


    immediately to go to her.


    The reporters waited stubbornly in the meeting room all night.


    Meanwhile, a petite woman dressed in office attire looked calm as she sat in a corner. Her name was


    Summer Olsen. Like the other reporters around her, she was busy typing into aptop to spread


    information to the outside world.


    Summer had worked overnight, so it was understandable that she was tired. She rubbed her temple


    and took a brief break when someone came over and said, ¡°I wonder what urgent matter Mr. Russell is


    dealing with that he dared to cancel on so many people.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Summer smiled but did not respond. She knew Dexter hardly cared about many matters, so reporters


    did not bother him. Moreover, he likely would not care much even if such a severe crisis broke out in


    the business world.


    Russell Group¡¯s staff brought food and bottled water to the reporters, expressing their sincere


    apologies about the situation.


    However, their boss probably did not share the same sentiment.


    Summer was pondering when a sudden disturbance appeared ahead. ¡°Mr. Russell is here!¡±


    She looked up.


    Dexter walked in, looking dashing in his ck suit. His expression seemed kind yet somewhat


    indifferent. He nodded apologetically to the crowd, ¡°Everyone, please settle down. The press


    conference shall begin soon.¡±


    His sense of authority did not diminish one bit.


    He answered every question concerning the trade war and Russell Group¡¯s stance perfectly. No one


    could find any fault with the answers.


    Then, his assistant named the next person to ask questions. ¡°Summer Olsen from Vaste.¡±


    Dexter did not show any reaction. He nced from the corner of his eye at a young woman in the back


    row. She stood up and behaved professionally. ¡°I have a question, Mr. Russell. What will you do if


    foreign investors enforcepulsory measures and withdraw their technical support?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze appeared far off and seemed to flicker briefly. However, his expression remained


    unchanged. He answered calmly. ¡°Russell Group does notck talent.¡±


    Those words were filled with confidence. It meant Russell Group did not fear what the enemies did.


    Such a firm response assured many people


    Otherwise, the fall of Russell Group would result in a chain of repercussions. They knew they would be


    doomed along with it.


    After the press conference ended, a group escorted Dexter and sent him off. Everything seemed to be


    going well.


    However, when Dexter left Russell Group in the evening, a young woman with a shoulder bag suddenly


    blocked his car outside the building.


    Moses stopped the car immediately and turned to Dexter. ¡°Sir¡­.¡±


    Dexter closed his eyes for a brief rest. Hearing Moses, he instructed with his eyes closed, ¡°Let her in.¡±


    Summer soon sat in the backseat and smiled charmingly. ¡°Dex, I knew you would take this road.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you call your driver to send you home?¡± Dexter did not open his eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m only an employee. How can I have a driver?¡± Josie pulled out a document from her bag. ¡°This is


    research on foreign investors. I think you will be interested.¡±

 Chapter 413

    Chapter 413


    Chapter 413 Secretly Photographed


    Josie received a call from Alice the morning after she got drunk. After a moment of silence, Alice said,


    ¡°What the heck happened?¡±


    Josie was briefly confused. Her memories were vague. I think Dexter picked me up after I got


    drunk¡­


    Then, we bumped into Alice¡­


    He carried me off¡­


    Josie¡¯s forehead throbbed. She replied awkwardly, ¡°Erm¡­ Would you believe me if I say he¡¯s a distant


    rtive?¡±


    Alice snorted and said, ¡°Why would your distant rtive bridal carry you?¡±


    Her voice was so loud that Josie instinctively held the phone away from her ear. At the same time, Alice


    scolded, ¡°You always said your husband refused to meet anyone due to his disability. Never did I


    dream that he was Dexter! My goodness, Josie! How could you do this? How could you trick me for so


    long?¡±


    Josie listened to her scolding quietly and nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t be angry. There are good reasons for hiding it.


    I didn¡¯t have a choice.¡±¡°


    Alice took a deep breath. ¡°When did it start? Josie, I knew you were courageous, but I didn¡¯t expect you


    to be this daring. I can¡¯t believe that you¡¯re in a rtionship with Dexter. No, wait. The more important


    question is, how did you do it?¡±


    Josie bit her lip. ¡°One needs a bit of luck sometimes, and I was lucky then.¡±


    Alice was silent for a while before saying, ¡°I remember everything. You¡¯re the woman in those tabloid


    photos. I¡¯ve always wondered why the woman looked like you. Now I know it was you!¡±


    ¡°Also, what¡¯s your status with him? Are you dating him?¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless. She knew it was impossible to continue hiding it. Thus, she


    confessed, ¡°We¡¯re married.¡±


    Alice was stunned into silence.


    She remained silent for a long time.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Heck¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Josie asked cautiously.


    ¡°My friend is my boss¡¯ wife. Heck, I¡¯ve been living in a TV drama all this while.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. It might be over soon,¡± Josie said honestly.


    But Alice refused to believe her. ¡°Cut the cr*p. I saw how Mr. Russell treated you yesterday. He only


    had eyes for you. He looked so furious like he wanted to kill everyone who touched


    you.


    Josie was stumped. ¡°Other than you, who saw us that night?¡±


    ¡°Billy, but he probably won¡¯t say anything. Mr. Russell¡¯s secretary warned him.¡± Alice suddenly realized


    something. That means everyone in the secretary¡¯s office knew about it!¡±


    ¡°Wait, but if they knew, why did you resign from the design department? Was it to avoid suspicion?¡±


    Josie could not tell her that it was Dexter¡¯s punishment for her. ¡°It¡¯s a long story. I¡¯ll tell you about it


    another time.¡±


    ¡°By the way, where are you now?¡±


    Josie had just finished washing up when a servant brought her a hangover soup. ¡°I added truffles to the


    soup. Old Mr. Russell arranged for someone to bring truffles here two days ago and instructed you to


    have them for your health.¡±


    Josie nodded.


    She had not visited Henry for a long time as she was busy dealing with many cumbersome matters.


    Moreover, her rtionship with Dexter was not going well. She was not sure how she should face


    Henry.


    She felt guilty toward him.


    Her phone buzzed with a new message as she was still on the call with Alice. The message contained


    a few blurred photos, but Josie could see that those photos showed Dexter carrying her drunken self


    into the car. They were taken from an angle that made it seem like she and Dexter were intimate.


    Most importantly, the photos showed her face.


    The sender messaged. ¡®Pay up if you don¡¯t want them leaked¡¯


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. She looked down and messaged back. ¡®How much do you want?¡±

 Chapter 414

    Chapter 414


    Chapter 414 Schemed against Him


    ¡®Five million.


    There was no way she had that much money. It seemed the sender knew she was Mrs. Russell. They


    dared to make such an outrageous demand, knowing she had the support of the Russell family.


    ¡®Mrs. Russell, I know neither of you wants your identity exposed. So, you should pay me to destroy the


    evidence for your protection.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and messaged. ¡®Give me some time to think about it.¡¯


    She told the matter to Alice. Alice soon arrived at Mason Garden.


    She had never been to Dexter¡¯s residence. Although she was still furious with Josie, she could not help


    but feel nervous as she headed there.


    It was undoubtedly a residential area for the upper ss. She entered the Mason Gardenpound


    and found many people walking around in casual clothes. They looked like passersby but were secretly


    guards. Each of them was strong and tough, like Dexter.


    They checked her ID, took her thumbprint, and called Josie to confirm her visit.


    Josie seemed used to the procedures. ¡°Yes, let her in. She¡¯s my friend.¡±


    Then, Alice was finally able to get in without obstruction.


    Once she entered the house, the servants greeted her politely and served her tea and cakes. The


    hospitality in this house was top-notch.


    Josie sat in the room and looked in a daze at the photos on her phone. ¡°I have aint. Don¡¯t they


    know how to take photos? Why do I look so ugly in them?¡±


    She could barely remember what happened yesterday. However, looking at the paparazzi¡¯s photos


    helped her understand the situation. She found the photos quite amusing. Dexter was quite good to


    her, seeing how he frequently carried her like that.


    Alice could not sit still from fury. ¡°Does it matter? They photographed your face. D*mn, those paparazzi.


    You will be in serious trouble if your face gets exposed!¡±


    Meanwhile, Dexter returned to Mason Garden at this moment. Moses followed him and did not dare to


    speak. He was unsure whether Dexter was in a bad mood because Summer just stopped the car.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Josie?¡±


    Schemed against Him


    ¡°Mrs. Russell is upstairs with a friend.¡±


    It was the first time Josie had a friend visiting Mason Garden.


    Josie could not figure out which mediapany dared to do this. ¡°Why did they dare to photograph


    Dexter?¡±


    Alice fanned herself with her hand. ¡°It¡¯s five million. Who wouldn¡¯t want it?¡±


    Surprisingly, Josie was still able tough it off. ¡°Honestly, Dexter won¡¯t care about that amount of


    money. He might give it to them, but I don¡¯t want them to have it easy.¡±


    Alice stared at Josie and seemed truly stunned for a moment. ¡°He¡¯s your husband, after all.¡±


    Josie ced the phone on the table and sighed in relief. Thank goodness Arnold is not the one in the


    photo.¡±


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Arnold?¡± Alice nearly jumped with fury. ¡°You dare to think about Arnold? If they snapped you with him,


    that would be more than five million. Imagine the amount of criticism you would face.¡±


    Josie¡¯s skin gleamed beautifully under the light. She blinked indifferently and replied, ¡°That¡¯s why we


    should be thankful they didn¡¯t take a photo of me with Arnold. I¡¯m lucky that they only caught me with


    Dexter.¡±


    Alice pursed her lips. ¡°Is it any better?¡±


    Josie answered, ¡°Arnold is different¡­¡±


    He is single, and the public is less interested in his status. People will not bat an eyelid seeing him flirt


    with a woman.


    But it is different for Dexter.


    ¡°I¡¯m not paying them five million. They can publish the photos if they want. But before this, we must find


    a way to let Dexter¡¯s assistant discover them. Then, Dexter will buy up. all the photos, and there won¡¯t


    be any scandal.¡±


    Josie understood Dexter¡¯s thoughts.


    She knew he needed to keep the Olsen family in check. Summer would cause a massive uproar if she


    saw those photos.


    Jose¡¯s expression dulled slightly as she thought about it.


    Alice understood Josie¡¯s n. ¡°But¡­ aren¡¯t you scheming against Dexter?¡±


    Schemed against Him


    ¡°He had schemed against me many times,¡± Josie replied emotionlessly. She saw that now. The


    moments she thought were blissful were only illusions. He had always been scheming against her.

 Chapter 415

    Chapter 415


    Chapter 415 Keeping His Guard Up


    Alice asked worriedly. ¡°Are you sure about this?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Josie did not notice that the man they were discussing was currently standing outside their door. His


    expression turned cold. However, his lips suddenly curved into a devious smirk.


    Judging from her words, it sounded like she regarded Dexter as someone lesser than Arnold.


    After Alice left, Josie looked at her phone in a daze.


    There were many unread messages on WhatsApp, and one of those was from Arnold. His profile


    picture was a in, ck image, and his message seemed emotionless and professional. I¡¯ve received


    information on the news. What is your decision? Should I suppress it?¡±


    The message was sent in the morning, but Josie had only seen it now.


    She recalled his face and sneered as she typed a reply. ¡®Arnold, are you showing concern for me?¡±


    He immediately replied with a question mark.


    That¡¯s not how one should show concern.


    Arnold soon sent another message. ¡®Seems like you¡¯re finally sober.


    After that, Josie sat in a daze until a sudden touch caused her to jump in fright. She instinctively held


    the phone to her chest and turned off the screen before looking up in a panic. It was Dexter. He came


    up to her without her noticing.


    His expression was calm as a stillke. Josie could not detect any emotions as he looked at her and


    asked, ¡°Why are you scared?¡±


    Josie slowed her breathing. ¡°When did youe in? Why didn¡¯t I hear any footsteps?¡±


    He came in so quietly that Josie was unsure how long he had been here or whether he saw anything.


    Dexter seemed in a decent mood, so Josie guessed he had just arrived. She calmed down and


    behaved normally. ¡°What would you like to eat? I¡¯ll ask Julie to prepare it.¡±


    Dexter looked at her and answered, ¡°I want to eat what you made.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°Don¡¯t joke around. It¡¯s gettingte. There¡¯s not enough time to prepare.¡±


    Dexter was not angry. He suddenly reached out to grab the phone in her hand. Josie¡¯s face turned


    pale. She gripped her phone tightly. ¡°Why..¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Dexter did not speak but pulled harder. Josie refused to let go.


    Unfortunately, she was no match for his strength. He took the phone and tried to turn on the screen, but


    a security lock protected it. He showed it to her and asked gently, ¡°Unlock it, dear.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression had turned to horror. Her heart beating like a drum. She dared not disobey when


    Dexter looked at her like that and unlocked the screen with a trembling hand.


    Dexter usually disliked social media and chatting using messenger apps. Yet, he quickly turned on


    WhatsApp and found the chat log.


    He read the messages at a nce.


    Josie panicked and suddenly realized she had been too careless. ¡°Dexter, don¡¯t you trust me? What did


    I do that made you suspicious of me like this?¡±


    Dexter turned off the phone and tossed it to the side.


    ¡°Josie, there¡¯s something that I didn¡¯t want to tell you, but you gave me no choice. Do you remember


    Kevan?¡±


    Apprehension grew in Josie¡¯s gaze.


    How can I not remember? I had so much trouble getting someone into the design department, yet he


    was transferred because he had a crush on me.


    Dexter paused deliberately and undid the buttons on his cuffs. His posture indicated he had something


    more to say. ¡°I don¡¯t care what matter it concerns or how lowly is the person¡¯s status. Anyone who


    dares to desire what is mine can never hope to escape unscathed. Can you guess where he is now?¡±


    Josie clenched her fist. Previously, she heard that he was still in Rivodia.


    She remained silent.


    ¡°The fastest way to make someone give up is to make him lose what he cares about the most.


    Coincidentally, I have some talent in this.¡±


    Dexter raised his eyebrows slightly, prompting Josie to shudder with fear.


    He had her tightly within his grasp. Any sense of freedom was an illusion.


    Keeping His Guard Up


    Dexter kept moving closer, but Josie kept retreating. She did not dare to meet his gaze.

 Chapter 416

    Chapter 416


    Chapter 416 The Consequence of Betrayal


    ¡°I will not tolerate any betrayal,¡± Dexter said sternly. ¡°I¡¯ve told you this many times.¡±


    His smile blossomed beautifully like a flower in spring, but Josie knew it hid evil intentions. ¡°Why do you


    look at me like that? I didn¡¯t do anything to him except transfer him to Rivodia and make him start from


    the lowest position.¡±


    Josie choked with guilt, knowing she dragged Kevan into trouble when he did nothing wrong.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Josie shouted. ¡°You¡­ You¡¯re too cruel¡­¡±


    Dexter looked at her coldly. ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s you who are disloyal to me.¡±


    But you are always suspicious and are the first to betray my trust. Josie nearly blurted out those words,


    but she resisted them.


    Dexter had a twisted set of rules. Only he could scheme against others. He would not tolerate anyone


    employing any tricks against him.


    Josie swallowed her anger. ¡°What do you want to say?¡±


    Dexter ced his hands behind his back and leaned toward her ear. It seemed like an


    intimate gesture, but his words were harsh and cruel. ¡°Don¡¯t do it if you are notpletely sure you will


    seed. Otherwise, you know what will happen if I catch you.¡±


    He had told her the consequences of betrayal the night before.


    Fury surged through Josie. She shoved Dexter away and red at him furiously.


    Dexter looked at her in disbelief before walking away indifferently.


    His gentleness and kind words were all pretense. Instead, he revealed his true nature in his schemes.


    Josie was afraid and hurriedly turned on her phone. She looked closely at her chat log with Arnold and


    found nothing damning,


    But Dexter was easily suspicious, and his hunches were urate. Josie had betrayed herself through


    her intense reactions.


    It was his habit to strangle any issues at its cradle.


    Dexter was ruthless in his ways. No one could hope to take advantage of him.


    However, Josie seemed to have forgotten that Dexter set aside an urgent work matter to meet


    herst night, only for her to scheme against him in the morning. No one could stand such betrayal.


    The lights were off. Dexter sat in the darkness, surrounded by a cold and intimidating aura.


    He remained silent for a long time before saying indifferently, ¡°Moses, have I not treated her well?¡±


    Moses broke out in cold sweat. He knew what Dexter meant.


    ¡°You¡­ were good to her. It¡¯s she who had gone overboard.¡±


    Dexter fell silent.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    The silence felt suffocating to anyone around him.


    Moses thought Dexter would keep brooding silently, but he suddenly tapped on the table and said, ¡°I


    need you to investigate who owns that studio.¡±


    ¡°Are you saying¡­¡±


    ¡°Find out who did it. That photographer has no idea what he¡¯s up against. How dare he extort money


    from me?¡±


    Furthermore, this incident caused him to hear unpleasant words against him. Therefore, he would


    ensure the photographer would never be able to work in his field again.


    The domestic economy is gradually worsening due to the outbreak of the trade war. The effects spread


    to various industries, filling the public with unprecedented fear. Manypanies already started mass


    layoffs, especially in the finance industry.


    The massyoff inevitably hurt many individuals and families. It was a difficult decision to make. Still,


    Russell Group was humane and sent mediators to talk to each staff. It also made sure to pay


    compensation.


    Furthermore, Dexter appeared in public more frequently. To avoid mass panic, he epted a few


    interviews in newspapers and magazines. However, he would only allow face-to-face interviews, with


    no voice recording or photographs taken.


    Dexter was famous in the business circle. Everyone knew about his unique ability to manage Russell


    Group. Most importantly, everyone who had met him praised how handsome he was.


    Due to this, mediapanies would always send male staff to interview him. They were concerned


    that a female employee would be influenced by her emotions and could not be objective.

 Chapter 417

    Chapter 417


    Chapter 417 She Waited for Six Hours


    But it was different in Vaste.


    Summer was known for her astute analysis ever since she joined thepany, especially in matters


    concerning Russell Group. Her research was always the best and the most urate.


    Usually, an outstanding woman like her would be proud and even arrogant.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    However, Summer always kept a low profile whether in Vaste or outside. She avoided getting into


    disputes.


    Furthermore, Summer had an old-fashioned habit. She would only write with carbon pencils and write


    fast with neat handwriting. It was perfect and wless, like her.


    The city lights came on, illuminating the gorgeous night scenery. Summer stayed back in the office


    alone to work overtime. One could hear the restless scratching noises of the pencil on


    paper.


    Suddenly, she heard the door open and close and gathered the courage to stand up.


    The supervisor had just finished work. He smiled upon seeing her. ¡°Summer, it¡¯s great that you¡¯re


    hardworking but don¡¯t overwork yourself. You should go home soon.¡±


    Summer had a solemn expression as she said, ¡°I¡­ I would like to discuss something with


    you.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Sure.¡±


    ¡°I heard ourpany is given a chance to interview Dexter. I wish topete for the opportunity to


    interview him.¡±


    The supervisor¡¯s expression changed instantly. He had finished considering whom to send for the


    interview and had a senior reporter in mind.


    Furthermore, it wasmon sense not to send a staff who had just joined them. It would trigger much


    criticism.


    Summer seemed to guess what he was thinking and exined hurriedly, ¡°I feel this is a chance for me


    to improve. You have seen how I questioned Dexter during the press conference. I believe I¡¯ve done


    well. Honestly, I wish to rise in the ranks. I hope you can give me this chance, and I assure you that I


    will do well and not disappoint you.¡±


    The supervisor considered in silence for some time.


    He had encountered many ambitious subordinates throughout his career, but Summer was


    She Waited for Six Hours


    the first to be this frank about her goals.


    Summer sped her hands nervously.


    The supervisor answered, ¡°Sure.¡±


    That prompted her to smile in delight.


    ¡°I¡¯m allowing you to go because of two reasons. First, you have conducted yourself well in the previous


    press conference. Second, I admire your courage. However, you will be penalized if you fail to


    complete the task properly.¡±


    Summer smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will get it done.¡±


    Unfortunately, Dexter kept failing to show up at the appointed time for the interview.


    He had a business gathering more important than the interview. It was still ongoing during the


    appointed interview time.


    Summer sat in Russell Group¡¯s reception room. Her cup of ck coffee had turned cold. It was already


    late. An assistant from the secretaries¡¯ office came over a few times to inform her that Dexter would not


    being today, and they had to arrange another appointment for


    the interview.


    Yet, Summer always responded with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll wait for him.¡±


    It was past midnight when the business gathering ended. Dexter entered his car and epted the


    hangover medicine his secretary offered. He consumed it without hesitation.


    Once the car started, the secretary suddenly recalled something and said, ¡°There¡¯s a call from the


    company just now, saying that the researcher, who had an appointment to interview you, is still waiting


    for you. She refuses to leave.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyelid twitched slightly. ¡°When was the call?¡±


    ¡°Two hours ago. Taking that into ount, she has probably waited for six hours.¡±


    Dexter remained silent.


    It was finally raining, which was much weed on this stuffy summer night. Huge drops of rain fell


    onto the ground, sttering water everywhere.


    After a while, Dexter said, ¡°Bring me to Russell Group.¡±


    ¡°Why? But you¡¯ve been working for too many hours today¡­¡±


    ¡°Send me to Russell Group.¡±

 Chapter 418

    Chapter 418


    Chapter 418 We Can Never Be Together


    Summer finished packing her things and was about to leave in disappointment when she saw the man


    with an unmistakably strong presence.


    He walked steadily with a group of people following him. His face portrayed no emotions, but his gaze


    was chillingly cold.


    Summer felt insignificant before him.


    She looked at him with surprise and a hint of fear.


    Her voice faltered but remained calm. ¡°Dex, I¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


    She called his name so gently that it made one¡¯s heart flutter.


    No one expected Dexter would take the trouble to return to thepany to meet such a junior


    researcher.


    Dexter nced at her and stepped forward to open the door. He instructed the others, ¡°You can all


    leave first.¡±


    The group of people left, but they could not resist ncing at Summer curiously. They could not figure


    out what was going on.


    Summer had a spring in her step as she kept up with Dexter. Her disappointed heart revived and


    blossomed with joy.


    She followed him and said timidly, ¡°Dex, I thought you wouldn¡¯t return.¡±


    Dexter had always hidden his emotions. One could never tell what he was thinking from his expression.


    He looked at Summer indifferently. ¡°You should know I don¡¯te here to discuss such things.¡±


    Summer tilted her head in confusion. ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯m here to interview you on behalf of


    Vante.¡±


    ¡°You hired people to take those photos.¡±


    Summer¡¯s expression darkened instantly. ¡°What photos?¡±


    Dexter quietly observed her under the light.


    ¡°Summer, I hope you know not to go overboard.¡±


    Summer¡¯s smile faded slightly. ¡°Dex, I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    We Can Never Be Together


    Dexter poured a ss of water for himself. Drops of water stained his lips.


    Summer stepped forward and said, ¡°Dex, I know my feelings for you are causing you inconvenience.


    I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t control how I feel. I only wish to stay by your side, and I¡¯m willing to wait for you.¡±


    She poured out her heart to him and did not attempt to hide.


    Dexter found it funny. ¡°Why are you waiting for me? What makes you think you have the right to do


    that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because you are here now.¡±


    Dexter looked into her eyes and saw the anxiety and uncertainty in them. He did not hold back on his


    words.


    ¡°We can never be together.¡±


    Those simple few words shattered her heart.


    She almost could not hold back her tears.


    ¡°You should already know when you went to London that we can never be together.¡±


    Summer resisted crying. Tears gathered in her eyes, but she willed them not to fall. At the same time,


    she replied calmly, ¡°No matter what, I¡¯m here on a work matter. Since you agreed to ept my


    interview, you won¡¯t go back on your words, right?¡±


    Summer was clever to switch the topic back to work.


    It was three in the morning when the interview ended. The heavy rain outside gradually


    came to a stop.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Dexter left right after the interview. He had been indifferent throughout the meeting. Still, he answered


    the questions posed to him. At least he was kind enough to give her exclusive answers. With these, the


    newspaper would sell well tomorrow.


    He seemed disinterested and somewhat rxed during the interview. Beneath his demeanor, one


    could see that he did not care at all.


    Dexter did not care about Summer.


    At the most, he might have some consideration for their rtionship, prompting him to give in to some


    of her requests.


    Yet, he seemed heartless when he left immediately after the interview. He gave her no chance to ask


    him to stay.


    We Can Never Be Together


    Summer stood still and narrowed her eyes. Her gaze was filled with scheme and hatred.

 Chapter 419

    Chapter 419


    Chapter 420 The Charity G


    Josie looked pale after saying goodbye to Mrs. Langman. Paul noticed something wrong and patted


    her shoulder. ¡°Jo, you can do anything you want as long as you feel you can bear the consequences.¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­¡±


    Mrs. Langman did not give up and messaged Josie the invitationter. ¡°I will hide your identity. You can


    attend the event with me as my sister.¡±


    Josie was unsure if she made the right decision andughed despite herself. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s go and check


    it out then.¡±


    There were all kinds of formal gowns in Mason Gardon. Josie picked a maxi gray dress and put it on.


    Then, she styled her hair into an updo and put on a long starry earring. She looked beautiful and well-


    dressed for the g.


    Mrs. Langman saw her and eximed how nice it was to be young.


    They entered the venue arm in arm.


    Josie deliberately chose to attend the auction on the second day due to concern that people she did


    not want to meet would most likely attend the first day.


    Unfortunately, she saw a familiar figure when she walked in.


    Even though Dexter sat in a corner, his dazzling presence made him hard to miss. He was looking at a


    document given by the woman beside him and signed it with a fountain pen.


    Even such simple gestures were mesmerizing to watch.


    Mrs. Langman asked tentatively, ¡°Do you wish to say hello to him?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and looked away. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    She did not have anything worth auctioning or money to buy anything. She was only there to enjoy the


    event with Mrs. Langman.


    Then, she sat in a corner and appeared rxed. Mrs. Langman sat by her side. Thus, no busybody


    dared toe close.


    Mrs. Langman bided a few items but lost interest in them. She was bored of sitting there and offered


    Josie a choice. ¡°You can bid for whatever you like. I¡¯ll pay for it.¡±


    Josie widened her eye. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t ept that.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re here as my sister, it¡¯s only natural that you bid for something on my ount.¡± Mrs.


    Langman caressed her cheek and chuckled.


    Josie instinctively nced at where Dexter was seated. His seat was right across hers. Thus, either of


    them could easily look up and see each other.


    However, she did not look his way.


    At the moment, she was unsure what Dexter wanted. He would nevere to an auction without a


    purpose.


    Josie understood his ways all too well.


    Although she could not figure out what Dexter wanted, she suddenly noticed something she liked.


    Therge screen showed a picture of a bracelet. It had a thin gleaming white chain. The bracelet had a


    starry design and looked luxurious but simple. She thought it would look beautiful worn on her wrist.


    That was why she liked it instantly.


    The starting bid was five hundred thousand.


    Josie turned to Mrs. Langman and nodded. I want to bid for this bracelet.¡±


    Thus, she gathered courage and raised the auction paddle. ¡°Six hundred thousand.¡±


    The crowd looked at her and seemed determined not to let her win. ¡°Seven hundred


    thousand.¡±


    ¡°Eight hundred thousand.¡±


    ¡°Nine hundred thousand.¡±


    Josie red at the womanpeting with her. It was only a bracelet. No matter how much Josie liked


    it, she thought bidding one million for it was too much. Furthermore, Josie could tell from the look on


    the woman¡¯s face that she did not like the bracelet. She bid for it out of spite.


    Josie looked down unhappily and did not raise the auction paddle again.


    However, a stern voice broke through the peaceful atmosphere before the auctioneer could conclude


    the bid at nine hundred thousand. ¡°1.2 million.¡±


    Josie looked up in surprise and saw it was Dexter. He conversed calmly with his secretary as if he did


    not just make a tremendous bid.


    Moreover, he did not look at Josie.


    The Charity G


    Josie took a deep breath and raised the auction paddle indignantly. ¡°1.3 million.¡±

 Chapter 420

    Chapter 420


    Chapter 420 The Charity G


    Josie looked pale after saying goodbye to Mrs. Langman. Paul noticed something wrong and patted


    her shoulder. ¡°Jo, you can do anything you want as long as you feel you can bear the consequences.¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­¡±


    Mrs. Langman did not give up and messaged Josie the invitationter. ¡°I will hide your identity. You can


    attend the event with me as my sister.¡±


    Josie was unsure if she made the right decision andughed despite herself. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s go and check


    it out then.¡±


    There were all kinds of formal gowns in Mason Gardon. Josie picked a maxi gray dress and put it on.


    Then, she styled her hair into an updo and put on a long starry earring. She looked beautiful and well-


    dressed for the g.


    Mrs. Langman saw her and eximed how nice it was to be young.


    They entered the venue arm in arm.


    Josie deliberately chose to attend the auction on the second day due to concern that people she did


    not want to meet would most likely attend the first day.


    Unfortunately, she saw a familiar figure when she walked in.


    Even though Dexter sat in a corner, his dazzling presence made him hard to miss. He was looking at a


    document given by the woman beside him and signed it with a fountain pen.


    Even such simple gestures were mesmerizing to watch.


    Mrs. Langman asked tentatively, ¡°Do you wish to say hello to him?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and looked away. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    She did not have anything worth auctioning or money to buy anything. She was only there to enjoy the


    event with Mrs. Langman.


    Then, she sat in a corner and appeared rxed. Mrs. Langman sat by her side. Thus, no busybody


    dared toe close.


    Mrs. Langman bided a few items but lost interest in them. She was bored of sitting there and offered


    Josie a choice. ¡°You can bid for whatever you like. I¡¯ll pay for it.¡±


    Josie widened her eye. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t ept that.¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯re here as my sister, it¡¯s only natural that you bid for something on my ount.¡± Mrs.


    Langman caressed her cheek and chuckled.


    Josie instinctively nced at where Dexter was seated. His seat was right across hers. Thus, either of


    them could easily look up and see each other.


    However, she did not look his way.


    At the moment, she was unsure what Dexter wanted. He would nevere to an auction without a


    purpose.


    Josie understood his ways all too well.


    Although she could not figure out what Dexter wanted, she suddenly noticed something she liked.


    Therge screen showed a picture of a bracelet. It had a thin gleaming white chain. The bracelet had a


    starry design and looked luxurious but simple. She thought it would look beautiful worn on her wrist.


    That was why she liked it instantly.


    The starting bid was five hundred thousand.


    Josie turned to Mrs. Langman and nodded. I want to bid for this bracelet.¡±


    Thus, she gathered courage and raised the auction paddle. ¡°Six hundred thousand.¡±


    The crowd looked at her and seemed determined not to let her win. ¡°Seven hundred


    thousand.¡±


    ¡°Eight hundred thousand.¡±


    ¡°Nine hundred thousand.¡±


    Josie red at the womanpeting with her. It was only a bracelet. No matter how much Josie liked


    it, she thought bidding one million for it was too much. Furthermore, Josie could tell from the look on


    the woman¡¯s face that she did not like the bracelet. She bid for it out of spite.


    Josie looked down unhappily and did not raise the auction paddle again.


    However, a stern voice broke through the peaceful atmosphere before the auctioneer could conclude


    the bid at nine hundred thousand. ¡°1.2 million.¡±


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Josie looked up in surprise and saw it was Dexter. He conversed calmly with his secretary as if he did


    not just make a tremendous bid.


    Moreover, he did not look at Josie.


    The Charity G


    Josie took a deep breath and raised the auction paddle indignantly. ¡°1.3 million.¡±

 Chapter 421

    Chapter 421


    Chapter 421 Competing Bid


    The secretary shouted on Dexter¡¯s behalf, ¡°1.5 million.¡±


    Whenever Josie increased the bid by one hundred thousand, Dexter would counter with another two


    hundred thousand.


    Mrs. Langman did not seem displeased. Instead, she watched the scene with interest.


    Josie was not sure what she should do. It was only a woman¡¯s bracelet, yet Dexter persistently bid for


    it. She wondered which woman he nned to give it to and felt annoyed.


    Still, she was determined not to let him humiliate her.


    Josie announced daringly, ¡°1.8 million.¡±


    The bid attracted even more attention to her. Everyone looked at the bracelet and wondered what was


    so unique that she would bid such an incredible sum.


    Dexter countered calmly, ¡°Two million.¡±


    Josie was bursting with fury.


    Dexter was always like this. He would always do something just enough to grate on her


    nerves.


    Two million was a tremendous sum, but it meant nothing to Dexter. However, it was not a sum Josie


    could afford to y with.


    Josie red at Dexter furiously, but he did not look at her. It angered her, prompting her to grab her


    phone and message him.


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Dexter received the message. ¡®Why do you bid like that? Aren¡¯t you worried about what people would


    say?¡¯


    Josie thought she had caught his weakness and announced her bid, ¡°2.5 million.¡±


    She was fuming and was determined not to let Dexter give the bracelet she liked to someone else.


    Dexter read the message and chuckled. Then, he raised his hand and said, ¡°Three million.¡±


    Mrs. Langman gasped slightly, alerting Josie of her recklessness. Josie realized it was pointless to


    compete with Dexter. He could spend any amount of money to bid for the bracelet regardless of what


    others thought. On the other hand, Josie could not afford to behave that way.


    It¡¯s only a bracelet.


    Josie calmed down and stopped bidding.


    Thus, Dexter won the bid with three million.


    After the dust had settled, Josie covered her face sadly, hiding from the crowd¡¯s curious


    gazes.


    She did not notice Dexter looking at her.


    After that, no other items at the auction caught Josie¡¯s interest. Instead, she found it fascinating


    watching people bidding for them. Later, she was tired and said goodbye to Mrs. Langman before


    leaving the auction venue.


    She nced at Dexter¡¯s seat before leaving and noticed he had left.


    The auction was held in a hotel owned by the Olsen family. Many of the guests chose to stay the night


    there, including Josie.


    Later, Josie would find herself stopped at the door the second time.


    It was ate night. The surveince recording showed that the hotel corridors were empty. The wall


    lamps cast small shadows on the wall. There was no movement and not a person in sight.


    About two minutester, the elevator door gradually opened, revealing a woman. She went to her room


    and suddenly stopped before the door. It seemed she had seen something and retreated from it.


    Suddenly, an elegant man stepped out from a corner and said something to her. He pulled her into his


    embrace in the next second and leaned down to kiss her. She struggled wildly in his hold but could not


    break free from him.


    Thus, the two rolled and bumped against the wall as Josie fought intensely against him.


    Her feminine scent filled his nostrils and stirred something within him, prompting him to sp her back


    tightly. He let his hand travel down her back and caressed her skin. Their lips kiss intensely.


    Josie smelled the tobo smell on his body and knew who he was.


    She could not figure out how Dexter could be so shameless. Hepeted for the bracelet against her


    a moment ago and had no qualms about making out with her afterward.

 Chapter 422

    Chapter 422


    Chapter 422 A Gift for Her


    The kiss felt so familiar that she reacted instinctively without his prompting. Dexter¡¯s tongue. invaded


    her mouth, alternating between slow gentleness and unrestrained passion.


    He only let go when Josie was out of breath. He held the back of her head and looked at her with eyes


    that shone like stars in the night sky.


    When their eyes met, they saw unrestrained passion and longing in each other¡¯s eyes.


    Josie¡¯s voice trembled. ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    Dexter leaned down and kissed her again, not giving her a chance to speak.


    His shirt and her dress were now disheveled. The buttons were undone, and her skirt puffed up as they


    made out.


    Dexter snatched Josie¡¯s room card from her hand. He unlocked the door with a ¡®click¡¯ and barged in.


    Josie found herself falling backward and bumped her head against the wall. She soon found herself


    back in his embrace again.


    Dexter moved his lips from her mouth and kissed her body, gradually exposing more of her


    bare skin.


    He left no part of her untouched.


    Her skin was so smooth that he could not stop touching her. He could feel the warmth of the blood in


    her veins and her gentle pulse.


    Josie was drowning in desire from his touch. However, she suddenly resisted as Dexter pushed her


    onto the bed. ¡°Scoundrel!¡±


    The sudden scolding prompted Dexter to pause what he was doing. His eyes gleamed mischievously


    as he smiled. ¡°Scoundrel?¡±


    At the same time, he trapped her securely in his embrace. He recovered from the haze of lust instantly


    and calmly looked at her.


    His feigning ignorance rendered her speechless. She scolded, ¡°What are you if not a scoundrel?¡±


    Dexter stared at her.


    ¡°People at the auction would never expect that the man bidding against me is now making


    out with me.¡±


    Dexter smiled. ¡°That¡¯s quite romantic.¡±


    Josie was fuming, but she could not move from his embrace. She said furiously, ¡°Instead of getting


    involved with me, you should send that bracelet to the woman you intended it for.¡±


    Dexter looked down at her and suddenly took out a small jewelry box from nowhere. In it was the


    bracelet Josie tried bidding for, glittering beautifully under the light.


    He said slowly, ¡°Who should I give it to?¡±


    Josie was stunned.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Then, he ordered, ¡°Give me your hand.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless and did not know how to react.


    However, Dexter did not wait for her but grabbed her hand and removed the bracelet from the box. He


    gently helped her wear it around her wrist.


    His gentle gestures made Josie suspect that he had a dissociative identity disorder. Otherwise, it did


    not make sense why he was violent one moment and tender in another.


    It¡¯s¡­ for me?


    ¡°This is for me?¡±


    Josie could not believe it.


    His actions left her confused. ¡°Why did youpete with me for it just now?¡±


    They could have bought the bracelet at one million, but theirpeting bid made it three million.


    Josie¡¯s heart clenched at the two million lost.


    However, she could not bear to be angry with Dexter since he gave her the bracelet. She was stumped


    for some time before saying, ¡°It¡¯s too expensive.¡±


    Dexter did not mind at all. ¡°I have money.¡±


    Josie had always dreamed of saying such words as casually as he did one day.


    However, hearing him say those words angered her even more.


    Dexter leaned close, giving her no reason to refuse him.


    His gesture indicated he yielded to her. Thus, Josie knew it was better to go along with him.


    She had oben experience wich med d


    But for some reason, what happened nogle hurdle in her heart. She kept feeling dretracted and isecure


    Dexter acutely noticed her inattentiveness and looked at her sternly. He tightened his grip and warned.


    Joe, you should focus


    Jou frowned and instinctively chang tightly to him. She felt his warmth and focused


    clear her mind. It was the only way she


    alm down


    She closed her eyes Being with him always left her drowning with no way ofing back

 Chapter 423

    Chapter 423


    Chapter 423 Frozen Lasagna


    Josie kept feeling troubled about epting the bracelet. It was too expensive.


    Dexter was insatiable and made love with her through the night, leaving her too tired to wake up in the


    morning. She slept until noon and woke up to Dexter cookingsagna.


    The hotel room had a kitchen, but the only food avable was frozensagna.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Josie went to the kitchen in her sleeping gown, only for him to push her away. ¡°Get the onions. I asked


    my secretary to buy them. Can you get them from her at the door?¡±


    She was surprised and secretly wanted tough. The secretary handled major projects every day and


    probably did not expect to be asked by her boss to get onions.


    But the secretary even got seasonal vegetables for them. She was friendly and greeted Josie with a


    smile.


    Josie was charmed and thanked her before closing the door. Then, she washed the onions before


    giving them to Dexter.


    It was always lovely to see a man cooking for her upon waking up. It made her feel like they were


    newlyweds.


    Frozen food was usually unremarkable, but Dexter somehow made it delicious.


    Josie was famished and ate it happily. On the other hand, Dexter did not show much interest in food as


    usual and ate only to fill his stomach. His secretary was waiting outside to report matters to him. Thus,


    he left the dining table to deal with work.


    He left his phone at the side. Josie suddenly noticed it while eating and had a sudden idea.


    It was Dexter¡¯s personal phone. The screen was locked with a pin code. Josie had no idea what the pin


    code could be. As she tried differentbinations, a voice suddenly sounded behind her. ¡°Are you


    checking my phone?¡±


    Josie nearly dropped the phone in shock. She froze in guilt.


    Dexter was initially seated in another room, listening to his secretary¡¯s report. There was nothing


    urgent, and he gave some instructions asionally.


    He could see Josie clearly from how his seat was angled. Suddenly, he saw her taking his phone and


    trying to crack his code.


    He caught everything she did.


    Dexter smiled and raised his hand to pause his secretary. The secretary stopped speaking and noticed


    a rare smile on Dexter¡¯s face.


    Dexter went to Josie and took away his phone without trouble. He held it behind him and touched the


    table, tempting her. ¡°What do you wish to see?¡±


    Josie desperately wished to cover her face in the embarrassment of being caught.


    She forced a smile and denied, ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to see anything.¡±


    Dexter looked elegant, even in casual clothes. He smirked and took out his phone unhurriedly before


    unlocking it and giving it to Josie. ¡°You can search it yourself.¡±


    After saying that, he ruffled his hair and headed to the bedroom. He said loud enough for Josie and the


    secretary to hear, ¡°I¡¯m going to bed.¡±


    Josie stared at his back profile in a daze. He had a good figure and a gorgeous back profile. He


    seemed youthful in his rxed state.


    Josie watched him in a daze and strangely felt sad. A man of his age should still appear youthful. Yet,


    Dexter was always stern and expressionless.


    The phone screen was turning dim. Josie swiped on it instinctively, causing it to brighten again.


    Meanwhile, the secretary closed the door and left.


    No one dared to touch Dexter¡¯s personal phone, and he would not allow anyone to touch it. Technology


    is so advanced nowadays that a person can hide almost everything about himself in a phone.


    Yet, he left it to her and allowed her to check it however she wished.


    It felt like something a normal boyfriend and girlfriend would do. The girlfriend would always wish to


    check her boyfriend¡¯s phone.


    Josie treasured her chance to look at Dexter¡¯s phone and was suddenly unsure where to start. She


    even considered selling his phone and was sure it would earn her a lot of money.

 Chapter 424

    Chapter 424


    Chapter 424 Checking His Phone


    There was nothing to see in his call records. Dexter never named his contact numbers. He had good


    memories and remembered every phone number he saw. He even remembered whose those numbers


    were.


    Dexter also had WhatsApp, like any modern person. However, he only contacted a few people with it.


    He mostly used it to respond to his grandfather and Josie¡¯s messages.


    Thus, Dexter was old-fashioned in this sense.


    Yet, that was what made him endearing.


    Josie put down her spoon and checked his WhatsApp. Many people sent him messages, but he did not


    respond, except for his grandfather. Henry had urged him to return home more often to spend time with


    Josie.


    ¡®Sure. That was all he replied.


    It sounded perfunctory.


    Josie nced through his chat with Henry before opening his conversation with her. He did not name


    her in his contact. Josie considered briefly and wrote, ¡°Baby Jo.


    But she found it cringy and shuddered as soon as she finished naming it.


    Once she had enough of looking through his phone, she gathered her things and entered the


    bathroom. The clothes she brought were all to be worn for going out. She had only brought her


    sleeping gown to be worn indoors, but Dexter had wrinkled it badly. Thus, she had a mischievous idea


    of wearing Dexter¡¯s shirt. It extended to the bottom of her thigh and was long enough to cover her.


    Dexter had low blood sugar. It was usually difficult for him to wake up once he fell asleep.


    Josie sat by the bed and touched his face. He was half awake and buried his face into the white


    pillows. It made him seem childish and unlike his usual stern and professional self.


    Josie looked at him for a long time and loved how harmless he appeared at this moment. After some


    hesitation, she poked Dexter¡¯s cheek and spoke to him like a child. ¡°Wake up. The sky is getting dark.¡±


    Dexter held her hand but did not open his eyes. His voice was hoarse. ¡°I¡¯m sleepy.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s time to get up now, even if you¡¯re sleepy.¡±


    He did not move.


    Checking His Phone


    Josie pouted and teased him. ¡°You can continue to sleep then. I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    However, he remained impassive for some time before slowly opening his eyes. Then, he looked at her


    and said slowly, ¡°Why are you leaving again?¡±


    Josie sensed a hint of sadness and helplessness in his tone and was confused. It seemed he feared


    she would leave him.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Josie replied, ¡°I must go home to care for Pop. I can¡¯t stay for too long.¡±


    They had been here for the whole day. She did not mention him until now.


    Dexter was a little moody from waking up. He tightened his grip on her hand and said, ¡°Stay here. The


    servants can take care of him.¡±


    Josie almostughed. ¡°Dexter, are you reluctant to let me go?¡±


    Dexter disliked her leaving so soon when she had just returned to him. It made him frustrated.


    He sat up and pulled Josie into the bed with him before she could react. She suddenly found herself


    sprawled on his body.


    Dexter secured his arms around her waist. ¡°I said stay.


    Josie let him embrace her and chucked. ¡°I was lying. Pop is independent. He doesn¡¯t need me


    watching him all day.¡±


    ¡°You lied.¡± Dexter narrowed his eyes and noticed her wearing his shirt. The shirt moved up her thighs


    from their struggle, revealing a sight that sent his blood surging throughout his body.


    He lost all desire to sleep and flipped them around, trapping her beneath him. He touched her ticklish


    spot, prompting her tough non-stop.


    ¡°Haha, Dexter. Stop¡­ Stop it¡­.¡±


    Dexter let go and watched her sternly.


    Josie looked at the gradually fading smile and apologized coquettishly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Unfortunately, it was toote. Dexter leaned toward her, indicating no chance of escape.


    He whispered, ¡°You little imp.¡±

 Chapter 425

    Chapter 425


    Chapter 425 Help


    Dexter stayed with Josie in the hotel for a day. He did not deal with any work matters that day.


    They stayed in bed most of the time with the curtains tightly drawn. Josiey in bed and watched a


    movie while Dexter embraced her from the side. He looked at her face asionally, watching her


    wholly focused on the movie. His eyes were filled with tenderness.


    Suddenly, Josie¡¯s phone beeped. She could not look away from the movie and refused to move, so she


    nudged Dexter. ¡°Can you bring it to me?¡±


    Her phone was on the bedside table. Dexter reached for the phone and unlocked the screen. It was an


    email. ¡®Greetings and congrattions for passing our second round of interviews. The third round of


    interviews will be held at ten o¡¯clock on Monday. Please arrive on time.¡±


    Dexter frowned slightly. Josie sensed something wrong but did not look at him. ¡°What message is it?¡±


    He put the phone back in its ce and pinched her chubby cheeks. ¡°You¡¯re searching for a job.¡±


    His tone was emotionless.


    Josie stopped eating potato chips and said jokingly, ¡°I still wish to remain in this industry. Mr. Russell,


    please don¡¯t ruin my career.¡±


    Dexter rxed slightly. He looked at the movie but was not paying attention to it. ¡°Whichpany do


    you wish to work in? I can arrange it for you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that. I can do it myself,¡± Josie replied sincerely. ¡°After all, I got into Russell Group


    with my abilities.¡±


    Now that she was Mrs. Russell, it would not do to misuse her authority. It would only incite criticism.


    ¡°Look at yourself.¡± Dexter lowered his voice. His voice stood out amidst the movie narration.


    Josie did not respond, so he stood up and left the bedroom. He called someone on the phone, but


    Josie could not hear their conversation.


    She waited for a while until Dexter returned to the room. He wore a pair of sweatpants and looked


    gentle and peaceful. Suddenly, he asked, ¡°Did you apany Mrs. Langman here?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see us together?¡±


    ¡°I need you to do something for me tomorrow.¡± Dexter pulled out a cigarette from his case and lit it.


    ¡°You will need to bid for an item. It doesn¡¯t matter how high the bid goes. All that matters is that you


    secure the item.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Dexter showed Josie a photo of a pendulum clock. It would cost at least eight figures based on how old


    it was. ¡°My father collected antiques, but his things dispersed everywhere after his passing. This clock


    only resurfaced this year.¡±


    His father¡­ That clock must have meant a lot to him. Josie took a deep breath and replied, ¡°I¡¯m unsure


    if I can do it.¡±


    Dexter smoked the cigarettenguidly and patted her head. ¡°I trust you.¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± Josie asked.


    ¡°I have a meeting.¡±


    Dexter had to attend an international forum. It was near the auction venue, and reporters would be


    present.


    many


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    There were stacks of A4 paper. Each was covered densely with new regtions for this year.


    The scene was chaotic. Many reporters sat on the floor and read through the regtions urgently. They


    needed to summarize them into concise texts before posting them to the public.


    Summer attended the event as Vaste¡¯s staff and was busy like the other reporters.


    She blended in well among them. However, those who saw her could not help but focus on her.


    There was finally some free time. Moses decided to test the waters and pointed at Summer. ¡°She¡¯s


    beautiful. How could you bear to let her go?¡±


    Dexter nced at her and looked away indifferently. He warned, ¡°Watch what you say.¡±


    Moses could not help but feel sorry for Summer.


    She came here for Dexter, only for him to treat her indifferently. Yet, she remained persistent. Thus, he


    felt she was worthy of pity.


    Dexter knew Summer was there, but she was focused on work and did not attract much attention.


    During the break, a woman stopped Dexter¡¯s secretary as he headed to his office. She used the clip on


    her pen to hold down the loose strands of hair at her forehead. It made her look strange.

 Chapter 426

    Chapter 426


    Chapter 426 Work Mistake


    She offered the secretary a small bag. ¡°I noticed Dex hasn¡¯t eaten anything for so long. Can you help


    me to pass this on to him? If he asks you to throw it away, please help me to inform him that he should


    eat his meals.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    The secretary wanted to refuse, but the woman interrupted him, ¡°By the way, my family name is Olsen.¡±


    He was stunned upon hearing the name.


    The secretary epted the bag in confusion. Summer thanked him and left.


    However, he was still apprehensive as he brought the bag of food to Dexter. He exined what


    happened. Dexter barely reacted and instructed, ¡°Throw it away.


    The secretary was stumped and thought Summer predicted Dexter¡¯s reaction urately.


    Before throwing it away, the secretary opened it and found it contained some gourmet food that Dexter


    usually liked. There was also a note.


    Dexter did not even bother to read it¡­


    The secretary hardened his heart and threw everything into the trashcan.


    Summer witnessed the scene from afar and turned away. Her heart hurt so much that it was hard to


    breathe.


    The meeting continued for the whole day. In other words, Summer was in the sa Dexter for a day.


    as


    Although they were not together, it was enough for Summer.


    The secretary frequently had to interact with Summer over work matters. He felt ne every time and


    worried she would get him to pass on words to Dexter and anger him. Thankfully, there was none of


    that.


    Summer seemed to havee to her senses and behaved professionally with the secretary. She did


    not bring up any personal matters.


    She was responsible for covering the whole meeting. It was a task assigned by her employer. She


    would generally keep a low profile and not ept such significant tasks. However, the meeting


    involved Dexter, so she happily took it.


    Her colleagues were dissatisfied with her after what had happened previously. Their dissatisfaction


    turned to anger, causing her much trouble.


    Work Mistake


    However, such was human nature, and it was the same everywhere. Furthermore, she deliberately hid


    her identity, so they had no respect for her.


    The sky was dyed red in the evening. Summer sat in the corner of the hotel¡¯s buffet-style restaurant,


    sitting next to a window. She typed something on herptop and had a ck coffee on the table.


    The light from the setting sun shone on her focused expression, making her appear gentle and lovely,


    Suddenly, two of her colleagues who attended the meeting sat before her and softly called her name,


    ¡°Summer?¡±


    Summer looked up from herptop.


    These colleagues had more experience than Summer. They were unhappy that Summer was assigned


    to lead the coverage of the meeting.


    Summer was suspicious of their sudden gentleness with her and narrowed her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    They appeared troubled and hesitated for a while before saying. ¡°We sent an article for future


    publication to Russell Group for verification. However, we just realized we had made a severe mistake


    in it. Can¡­ Can you help us exin or find a way to get the article back for correction?¡±


    Hearing them, Summer figured out why they were suddenly nice to her. It was to trouble her over their


    mistakes.


    She sneered, ¡°How could you be so careless with such an important article? It will affect ourpany¡¯s


    reputation.¡±


    She understood Dexter¡¯s temper. He would not tolerate mistakes, especially something minor that


    could have been easily avoided. Theirpany might lose the right to report on this meeting if he


    discovered the error. It would also affect theirpany¡¯s future. The damage would be extensive.


    The two women before her panicked and tried to control their anger. ¡°It was an ident. We just


    checked and discovered it had been sent to Russell Group. You seem to know Mr. Russell¡¯s secretary.


    Can you help us out?¡±


    One of them added a hint of threat. ¡°Furthermore, we are on the same boat. You will be dragged in,


    too, if something happens.

 Chapter 427

    Chapter 427


    Chapter 427 Snooping Around


    They were determined to drag her down with them.


    Summer smiled angrily and said sharply, ¡°What makes you think the higher-ups won¡¯t believe me if I


    were to clear my involvement in this error? You imed I know Dexter¡¯s secretary. You two will be in


    trouble if he helps me escape me.¡±


    Summer had always assumed a gentle demeanor and had never spoken to them in such a stern tone.


    Her words shocked the two women and struck their sore spots, causing them to almost jump from fury.


    ¡°Summer!¡±


    On the other hand, Summer had enough of talking to them. She took herptop and left.


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    It wasn¡¯t that she refused to help them. However, she could not stand the way they threatened and


    forced her to help.


    Summer calmed slightly after returning to her room. Her words were harsh, but they were only empty


    threats to scare the women.


    I have to get the draft article back, no matter what.


    How can I do that?


    Summer had always hoped she could stand pure and meless before Dexter and face him with


    dignity. She was worried that Dexter would refuse to listen to her if she went to inform him about the


    error. Even if he were willing to hear her out, he would lose his respect for her. After all, he hated


    people who made mistakes.


    Summer¡¯s frustration grew the more she thought about it. She threw her phone on the floor.


    However, she had no choice but to ept her situation. She picked up her phone and left the


    room.


    She considered Dexter¡¯s schedule and knew he would have dinner at this hour. Previously, she had


    heard from someone about the room he stayed in. Thus, she hurried into the elevator and went to the


    hotel¡¯s office before heading to Dexter¡¯s room.


    Then, she showed the office staff her identification documents and proved her identity. ¡°I want to clean


    my room but don¡¯t want to get my clothes dirty. Can I borrow a set of housekeeper¡¯s uniform?¡±


    The staff carefully checked her identification and let her borrow a set of the housekeeper¡¯s uniform.


    Summer breathed a sigh of relief and changed into the uniform. As she put it on, she could


    Snooping Around


    not help but feel despair that a wealthydy like her would resort to such a step.


    There were guards outside Dexter¡¯s room. Summer still looked pretty and elegant with a mask on her


    face. However, the guards did not recognize her, allowing her to sneak into the room as a housekeeper.


    The room was a presidential suite. It had everything that one would need. The spaciousness of the


    room made Summer ufortable.


    Summer did some simple cleaning work to keep up her act as a housekeeper. She gradually moved to


    Dexter¡¯s bedroom. Everything appeared still under the bright light. She could vaguely smell the


    cigarette Dexter usually smoked.


    The smell filled her with a sense of sadness. She crouched down to tidy up the things on the bedside


    table.


    Strange¡­ Dexter is a clean freak. Why is the bedside table so messy?


    After arranging the items on the bedside table, she found a pile of drawing pads and notes on the floor.


    They were full of drawings. One of the pages had an illustration of a pig and the name ¡®Dexter Russell¡¯


    written beside it.


    Summer¡¯s fingers shook as she flipped through the pages. She soon found one with Josie¡¯s


    name.


    Her handwriting is beautiful.


    A few hair ties and hair clips were also beside the drawing pads. They looked like they belonged to a


    woman. Summer also found a few sanitary pads.


    These confirmed that Josie and Dexter were staying here. They seemed close and were at ease with


    each other. Otherwise, Dexter would never have allowed her to make such a mess in his living space.


    The ce gave Summer a glimpse of their rtionship. It was filled with trust and love.


    Those were what Summer had never been able to attain all her life.


    She forced down the desire to cry and entered the study next to the bedroom.

 Chapter 428

    Chapter 428


    Chapter 428 She Was Discovered


    Many documents were on the table, but Summer skipped over them and opened Dexter¡¯sptop


    instead.


    It was heavily locked with passwords. The system would automatically inform Dexter if she were to key


    in something wrong. Moreover, the camera would snap a photo of her and send it to the staff. It would


    be difficult to escape.


    Summer¡¯s fingers hovered above the keyboard. Her mind was nk. She knew she only had one


    chance, and her life would be over if she made a mistake.


    Moreover, it was impossible to know his password, no matter how well she knew him.


    Time passed gradually, and the sky darkened. Summer¡¯s heart thumped nervously. She knew she


    could not afford to dy any longer.


    She closed her eyes and typed a few numbers.


    Her breath caught in her throat.


    After a while, she finally dared to open her eyes and was astounded to find the screen unlocked. She


    had cracked the password.


    Summer felt a sense of apprehension. After spacing out briefly, she quickly entered Dexter¡¯s email and


    scrolled down his emails individually to find the article to delete it.


    Thankfully, everything went well, and she soon found the email. Furthermore, Dexter had not opened it


    yet. Summer was ted but nervous. She calmed her breathing.


    A stern voice suddenly sounded as she clicked on the document and was ready to delete it. ¡°What are


    you doing?¡±


    Summer froze on her spot. She stopped everything she was doing. Her face blushed in


    embarrassment, and she did not dare to look at him.


    Dexter? Why is he here?


    How long has he been standing there?


    Shouldn¡¯t he still be having dinner?


    Dexter had returned to the suite and slept in the small room behind the study. He never left it until now.


    Therefore, his staff likely had no idea that he was there. Otherwise, they would never allow anyone to


    come in.


    He looked tired, but his eyes were alert. He gradually came to stand behind Summer, forcing her to turn


    around. He reached down and grabbed her chin. She looked up at his recently awoken face.


    Her eyes were filled with fear.


    Dexter pulled off her mask and raised his eyebrows. ¡°Summer, it¡¯s my first time seeing someone


    attempt seduction in a housekeeper¡¯s uniform.¡±


    Summer was not sure if she should feel embarrassed or afraid. The situation felt so awkward that she


    did not know what to do. She said fearfully, ¡°Dex¡­ I¡­..¡±


    Dexter nced at theputer screen before staring at Summer again. ¡°You have two options. You


    can eithere clean about your actions or wait for my people to drag you


    Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    out.¡±


    Both options were humiliating to Summer.


    Even though Dexter had just woken up, he surrounded himself with such an oppressing aura that


    Summer had difficulty breathing.


    Still, Summer was intelligent and quickly decided between the two options.


    ¡°Vaste made some mistakes in the analysis report they sent you. I feared the consequences, so I


    thought to sneak in to delete it. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Dexter instantly understood the gist of the matter. He was fully awake and sneered, ¡°You must have


    heard what happened to those who broke in to steal trade secrets from me. Do you know the


    consequences you will face?¡±


    Summer could not stop herself from trembling. She apologized again. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Her n would only seed if she could hide it permanently. However, she would stand to lose


    everything if discovered.


    Summer did not consider what she would do if her n failed. Unfortunately, she failed.


    Dexter was not one to show mercy. He said sarcastically, ¡°Summer, you¡¯re bing unscrupulous.¡±


    Those words hurt Summer more than any scolding and insults she received since she started her job.

 Chapter 429

    Chapter 429


    Chapter 429 Submission


    In other words, he was asking why she resorted to such an illegal method.


    Dexter had always shown a hint ofpassion toward her. However, his words now indicated his


    disappointment.


    Summer panicked. She wanted to say that she was not usually like that, but her courage faltered upon


    seeing Dexter¡¯s expression. She said timidly, T¡¯m sorry. I understand what I did is wrong, but I did it


    because I was afraid you would be furious about the mistake in the analysis¡­ I must have lost my


    mind to think to attempt that. Dex, I will ept any punishment from you.¡±


    She had no choice but to submit to Dexter.


    Summer was afraid of Dexter. There was no doubt about it. Her fear of him began many years ago.


    She had always been fascinated by him but felt insignificant before him. Even though she tried to fight


    against it, she could not help but be keenly aware of her lowliness whenever they met.


    Summer was usually a proud person. Thus, Dexter could not stand to see her pitiful expression.


    ¡°You can walk yourself out.¡±


    His tone was annoyed, as if he could not stand seeing her a second longer.


    Summer almost burst into tears.


    She struggled with every step and could keenly sense disdain as Dexter watched her.


    Dexter suddenly called out after her. ¡®Summer, I won¡¯t take any action against you because you¡¯re an


    Olsen.¡±


    Those words hurt more than anything he had said before.


    Summer was stunned to her spot and turned around with eyes full of tears.


    Dexter was slightly taken aback


    ¡°Dexter, must you be so cruel? Have you never considered me? All you care about is Josie!¡± Dexter¡¯s


    expression darkened with fury upon hearing Josie¡¯s name. ¡°Summer!¡±


    However, Summer turned a deaf ear to his warning and poured out her feelings. ¡°Has Josie been with


    you as long as I have? Is mypanionship not enough? I¡¯ve been so good to you.


    When I was little, you made me tea and taught me to y chess. There were times when you cared


    about me. Didn¡¯t you feel anything when I called out your name?¡±


    Summer was a young woman in her early twenties. She looked pitiful when she cried.


    She came to Dexter, but her appearance feltical due to her attire. ¡°Have you never thought about


    me? Have you never considered being with me?¡±


    One of the things Dexter hated the most was a womanining to him about things he never cared


    about. Most people would be doomed if they dared to say such things to him.


    His eyes shed. He wanted to speak but was suddenly stumped by the sight of Summer crying


    pitifully. She reminded him so much of a woman constantly on his mind.


    Summer misunderstood his pause, thinking her words moved him. She tried to hold his hand but found


    his fingers cold.


    Dexter shoved her hand away the instant she touched him. He exined, ¡°You misunderstood my


    intention.¡±


    His expression was indifferent as he continued, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. I¡¯ve never done anything out of


    bounds with you. You are like a sister to me. It was my fault that someone sought to harm me through


    you. That¡¯s why I¡¯m lenient with you. It¡¯s due to guilt.¡±


    He had no choice but to exin at this point. His exnation was clear yet heartless. Dexter felt he had


    tolerated her behavior enough.


    Summer looked at him and nodded. She wiped the tears on her face with her hands and quickly


    adjusted her emotions. Soon, she returned to her usual mature and understanding self. ¡°I apologize,


    Dex. I lost control of my emotions.¡±


    Dexter looked down at her.


    Was he heartless toward her? If he were, he would never have traveled through a downpour and


    returned to thepany to ept her interview. Moreover, he would not have tolerated her and let her


    off after what she did.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    However, that was the extent of his care for her.


    It was all he could do for her.

 Chapter 430

    Chapter 430


    Chapter 430 Brewing Herbs


    Dexter pulled out a couple of tissue and wiped the tears on Summer¡¯s face. She trembled slightly when


    his hand came in contact with her skin.


    Then, he walked past her and said tly, ¡°I will ignore the deleted document. If I find another mistake, I


    will not hesitate to take action against Vaste.¡±


    Is he¡­ letting me off?


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Summer¡¯s expression brightened instantly. She knew how difficult it was to get Dexter to give in. Thus,


    she was ted and temporarily forgot her heartbreak. She looked at Dexter excitedly. ¡°Dex, you¡¯re the


    best.¡±


    She was surprised that Dexter was willing to let her go.


    Summer deleted the document and called her two colleagues. She scolded them harshly, ¡°Don¡¯t make


    another mistake again, or Vaste will be doomed because of you. You should reflect on your mistakes.¡±


    The two colleagues exchanged nces and breathed a sigh of relief. The mistake was unintentional,


    and they were prepared to receive punishment. To their surprise, Summer dealt with the matter


    perfectly. Everyone knew how scary Dexter could be.


    How did she do it?


    Summer came to her senses. She changed out of the housekeeper¡¯s uniform and blushed as she


    recalled how Dexter looked at her. It made her flustered.


    She cooked a few dishes in the hotel¡¯s kitchen to express her gratitude. They were all Dexter¡¯s favorite


    food. She also prepared a pot of soup. However, she was not ready to face Dexter again and thought


    to request his secretary to send the food to Dexter.


    Meanwhile, Dexter¡¯s secretary came in to brew herbs for Dexter. These herbs were good for health but


    wereplicated to brew.


    They were prepared for Josie as she had a painful period. Dexter could not bear seeing her in pain and


    asked someone to prescribe herbs to help her condition.


    At the moment, Josie had gone out to attend something and had not returned.


    Summer saw the secretary and asked, ¡°Are you going to brew these herbs for Dexter?¡±


    The secretary hesitated before nodding. He seemed alert and cautious.


    Summer smiled. ¡°Let me do it. I know what to do.¡±


    The secretary did not dare to let someone else take over his task. ¡°Ms. Olsen, who am I to let you do


    my work? Please don¡¯t trouble yourself. I can do it.¡±


    Summer looked at the herbs in his hands. ¡°It¡¯s no trouble at all. My family owns this hotel. I can instruct


    someone to brew the herbs. Does that make you feel better?¡±


    The secretary was stumped. ¡°But¡­¡±


    Dexter was dealing with work. His desk was piled with documents. It was night, and the sky had


    darkenedpletely. Even the secretary felt tired watching him working so hard. He wished he could


    get Dexter to rest.


    Dexter had worked hard through the night.


    Anderson recently gave him a checkup and reminded him to care for his health.


    After some consideration, the secretary decided to give the herbs to Summer. He whispered, ¡°I¡¯ll


    entrust these to you, Ms. Olsen. Please send herbal brew over once it is done.¡±


    Summer smiled. ¡°Please remind your boss to take care of his health.¡±


    Although Summer could not identify the herbs, she worked earnestly and spent two hours brewing


    them.


    The pot bubbled and boiled with the herbal concoction. A bitter scent filled the air.


    One could tell from the smell that it was a bitter brew. Summer wondered if Dexter could stomach it.


    After the herbal medicine was ready, Summer packed it properly and knocked on Dexter¡¯s door with


    apprehension.


    Dexter looked up from work. His stern expression suddenly rxed and turned gentle. However, he


    suddenly appeared severe again when he saw the woman standing at the door.

 Chapter 431

    Chapter 431 The Battlefield


    Josie went to the g again. She attended using Dexter¡¯s invitation this time.The attendants saw her card and knew she was here on Russell Group¡¯s behalf. They immediately let her in.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Josie still wore the same gray evening gown. She looked elegant under the spotlight and attracted many gazes. Then, she found a seat and sat down to wait for the auction to begin.


    She heard whispers from other guests as soon as she sat down. ¡°I heard Mr. Olsen is here today. It¡¯s obvious why he came.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange. He could have gotten his staff to deal with such trivial matters. Why did he have to attend himself.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s something valuable. Thus, it¡¯s better to handle the thing himself.¡±


    Josie instinctively clenched her purse as she listened to them. Those who wanted to bid today had their assets screened. Only those with sufficient assets were allowed to bidter.


    Josie nced at the surrounding. Judging from what she heard, Mark was here. She hoped he wasn¡¯t aiming for the same item as Dexter.


    An older man with a strong presence sat in the middle, surrounded by the crowd. He seemed to have sensed someone looking at him and nced at Josie, prompting him to pause briefly.


    Josie froze but soon recovered and nodded at Mark. Seeing that, Mark looked away and seemed displeased to find her here.


    ¡°Ms. Quorn.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Quorn is here. Quick, sit down.¡±


    The voices around Josie caught her attention. She turned and saw Xanthe dressed in adies¡¯ suit. She looked elegant and wore thick makeup. Furthermore, she seemed healthier than when theyst met. It seemed her life had improved considerably from before.


    Josie took a deep breath and had a bad premonition.


    She felt out of ce in this auction filled with prominent and wealthy people.


    The auction started by auctioning a fewmon items. Most of the crowd seemed disinterested. Meanwhile, Josie felt pain in her lower abdomen. The first day of menstruation tended to be difficult for her.


    Josie bore the pain and looked down to message Dexter. She asked whether he was done brewing the herbal concoction.


    Dexter replied to her message. ¡®It will be ready soon. The secretary has arranged someone to brew it.


    Josie messaged again. ¡®I saw Xanthe.


    There was a long pause on the other side before Dexter replied, ¡®I see.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, can I sit next to you?¡± A crisp female voice suddenly sounded beside her. Josie instinctively turned off her phone screen and found Eileen Shaw. Eileen had been a celebrity for years and appeared charming whenever she smiled.


    ¡°Of course.


    Eileen sat next to Josie. Her smile did not diminish. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to find you here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here on someone¡¯s behalf.¡±


    ¡°Was it Arnold?¡± Eileen yed with her earring. She looked calm as she continued, ¡°Or was it Dexter?¡±


    Josie sensed that this gentle-looking woman was not one to be messed with. She answered frankly, ¡°It wasn¡¯t Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve seen you with him a few times. You guys seem close. I thought you two had some special rtionship.¡± Eileen¡¯s smile did not meet her eyes.


    Josie suddenly recalled that Carter Group and Laxir Corporation¡¯s marriage alliance was called off. Thus, Eileen was likely dissatisfied with Arnold. After all, she seemed to like him a lot.


    ¡°My only interactions with Arnold were the ones you saw. There¡¯s nothing between us.¡±


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t discount your abilities, right?¡± Eileen¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Carter Group transferred one billion to you, while Laxir Corporation suffered massive loss. Furthermore, you had Dexter¡¯s protection and were able to escapepletely. The dispute was between the three of you, yet I was left suffering for it. How is this fair?¡±

 Chapter 432

    Chapter 432


    Chapter 432 Special to Him


    Josie listened and understood what Eileen was getting at. She pondered and replied, ¡°That one billion


    debt shouldn¡¯t be an issue. Mr. Olsen has injected capital into thepany, so Wyatt should be able to


    pay it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not talking about the debt.¡±


    Eileen was a celebrity. Thus, it was humiliating when everyone in Wavery knew Arnold had canceled


    their engagement.


    However, that was Arnold¡¯s doing, and Josie had no desire to bear the me for him. ¡°I have nothing to


    do with it. You shouldn¡¯t take out your anger


    on me.¡±


    Eileen looked at her side profile and said, ¡°Arnold offended Laxir Corporation, for your sake. He even


    mortgaged his shares in exchange for funds to get through the crisis. Ms. Warren, you are special to


    him.¡±


    Josie frowned and finally looked at Eileen. ¡°He mortgaged his shares?¡±


    Eileen did not respond. Her eyes were filled with hatred and indignance.


    The auctioneer brought down the hammer and began to ept bids for the pendulum clock. The crowd


    whispered in anticipation and focused on the stage.


    The starting bid was eleven million.


    Many people bid for it.


    ¡°Thirteen million.¡±


    ¡°Sixteen million.¡±


    ¡°Twenty million.¡±


    People bid fervently as if therge sum meant nothing to them.


    Josie resisted raising her auction paddle and nced at Mark. He seemed to have no intention of


    bidding. On the other hand, Xanthe made a bid.


    ¡°Twenty-five million.¡±


    Although the antique pendulum clock seemed valuable, it did not make sense for them to all fight for it.


    The fervent bidding left Josie confused. Could Xanthe be bidding on it due to her feelings for herte


    husband?


    Dexter had given Josie firm instructions. She must win the bid no matter how much it took.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    When the bid reached fifty million, Josie finally raised her auction paddle. ¡°Sixty million.¡±


    Many people nced in her direction. At the same time, Xanthe finally noticed her and narrowed her


    eyes, looking at her curiously.


    Mark smiled and indicated to his secretary to raise the auction paddle. ¡°Sixty million.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. She feared the bidding price would go off the roof.


    ¡°Seventy-three million.¡±


    ¡°Seventy-six million.¡±


    Xanthe suddenly stopped bidding for some reason. She watched the bidding price rise as the bidders


    fought over the item.


    People kept bidding for the clock, gradually raising the bidding price. During this period, Mark spoke to


    his secretary. Soon, the secretary approached Josie and said respectfully, ¡°Ms. Warren, Mr. Olsen


    wants this pendulum clock¡±


    Josie did not know whether Dexter¡¯s financial capabilities wereparable to Mark¡¯s. However, Josie


    knew he was willing to risk offending important people when he instructed Josie to win the bid at all


    costs.


    Josie replied apologetically, ¡°This pendulum clock belonged to Mr. Russell¡¯s father during his life, so it


    matters a lot to him. I hope Mr. Olsen can be kind enough to let Mr. Russell have it.¡± The secretary


    returned to transmit the message to Mark. Mark looked at Josie meaningfully.


    Josie did not receive any response from him. She continued to bid for the clock. By now, the price had


    reached ny million.¡±


    She messaged Dexter. ¡®It¡¯s now ny million.


    As she waited for his reply, Mark suddenly appeared and asked Eileen courteously, ¡°Eileen, will you be


    willing to give your seat to me?¡±


    Since Mark personally made the request, Eileen had no way to refuse. She stood up and said


    apologetically, ¡°Of course, Mr. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°Thank you. Tell your father that I say hi.¡±


    Eileen nodded and turned to Josie. ¡°Let¡¯s have a meal after the auction ends.¡±


    Josie was not interested, but she could not refuse with Mark around. Thus, she nodded.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    After Eileen left, Mark crossed his legs and seemed like a perfect gentleman. His posture was still


    elegant despite his old age. One could not help but respect him

 Chapter 433

    Chapter 433


    Chapter 433 Forfeit


    ¡°Are you here to bid on Dexter¡¯s behalf? Did my daughter have something to do with it?¡±


    Josie smiled and replied, ¡°Mr. Russell is busy. He requested my help with this.¡±


    Mark tapped his fingers on his knees and focused on her intently. His gaze made her ufortable. It


    felt like he was trying to look through her and find something¡­


    However, Josie investigated Mark and discovered that he was loyal to his wife and was never involved


    in any scandal. Could he have secret lovers that no one knew?


    Perhaps he loved someone who had left him for some reason or had passed away?


    Since Mark remained silent, Josie raised her auction paddle and said, ¡°Ny-five million.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Mark asked, ¡°Do you want this item?¡±


    Josie did not dare to move. ¡°Mr. Russell wants it, so naturally, I want it too.¡±


    ¡°In that case, I will forfeit my bid.¡±


    His sudden willingness to let go of the item surprised Josie. She felt a chill down her spine and was too


    apprehensive to be happy about it. ¡°Mr. Olsen, thank you for forfeiting. I thank you on behalf of Mr.


    Russell. He will probably visit you soon to thank you in person.¡±


    Mark kept staring at her with affection in his gaze. He fiddled with the rosary beads on his wrist. ¡°Ms.


    Warren, you looked even more like someone I used to know in this dress.¡±


    Josie sat straight and replied, ¡°Mr. Olsen, it¡¯s not good to dwell too much in the past. One should look to


    the future.¡±


    Mark seemed not to hear her and appeared regretful. ¡°If she were your age, she would have turned out


    just like you.¡±


    His words prompted Josie to frown. It seemed the person he talked about was not an old me but


    someone else.


    Dexter had also mentioned that Josie looked like someone he knew.


    She wondered if they were talking about the same person.


    Before she could ask a question, the auctioneer shouted, ¡°One hundred million going once. One


    hundred million going twice. One¡­¡±


    Josie woke up from her daze and raised the auction paddle. ¡°One hundred and ten million.¡±


    The venue fell into pin-drop silence. Someone raised his photo to take a picture and record the highest-


    ever bid in this auction.


    The auctioneer called out the bid three times and received no new offer. Thus, he brought down the


    hammer and announced, ¡°Sold!¡±


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief. She secured the pendulum clock despite having to bid a high price.


    The crowd pped. Josie turned to Mark and nodded respectfully. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Olsen, for letting me


    have this.¡±


    Mark nced at her and said, ¡°I¡¯m not the only one in favor of you having it.¡±


    Xanthe had long left her seat.


    Josie handled the procedures and left the auction site, holding her long skirt. She stepped out of the


    door and saw Eileen. It seemed she was waiting for her.


    ¡°Ms. Shaw, you¡¯re actually serious about inviting me to a meal?¡±


    Eileen turned to Josie. ¡°Are you unwilling to join me? Don¡¯t forget that I helped you when you were in


    trouble.¡±


    Josie could not deny that. She hesitated briefly and replied, ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    She turned away from Eileen to give Dexter a call. However, no one answered. Thus, she had no


    choice but to message him. I¡¯m leaving with Eileen.


    ¡°Ms. Shaw, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Josie left in Eileen¡¯s car. Coincidentally, Mark came out of the auction site at the same time and caught


    a glimpse of Josie. ¡°Did my eyes y tricks on me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s Ms. Warren, Mr. Olsen,¡± the secretary answered respectfully. ¡°She probably left with Ms. Shaw.¡±


    Mark nodded slightly and mumbled, ¡°Am I too blinded by the past?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, you loved your daughter dearly, so it¡¯s not wrong. However, Ms. Warren is not that person.¡±


    Mark sighed and replied, ¡°Of course, I know that. Don¡¯t let Summer know about this. By the way, she¡¯s


    been working nearby recently. Can you arrange with her and tell her to meet me tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±

 Chapter 434

    Chapter 434


    Chapter 434 Tricked


    Josie sat in the front passenger seat and noticed Eileen was silent as she drove. She considered and


    said, ¡°I believe I owe you an apology over some matters. Your engagement with Mr. Carter started


    because of me. It¡¯s also partially my fault that it ended. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Eileen had a gentle and delicate appearance, but she was intimidating when angry.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s bad enough that I lost Arnold to Summer. I don¡¯t understand why I lost to you.¡± Eileen stepped on


    the elerator and looked at Josie. ¡°I¡¯ve investigated you. You came from an ordinary background and


    looked unremarkable. Moreover, you¡¯re married. I don¡¯t understand why Arnold loves you!¡±


    Josie frowned upon hearing her. ¡°Ms. Shaw, you misunderstood. I¡¯m not the one Arnold loves.¡±


    Eileen did not respond.


    The car traveled a long distance and left downtown. Josie began to worry. ¡°Ms. Shaw, where are you


    bringing me?¡±


    ¡°Why so nervous? I wasn¡¯t as nervous as you when I was theughingstock of the city.¡±


    ¡°You¡­.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re only getting something to eat Eileen smiled and stopped the car next to a vi. It seemed to be


    the only building around. ¡°Laxir Corporation suffered a severe loss, and we are looking for investors to


    tide us over. As the culprit, you naturally must help my father.¡±


    Josie gripped the seatbelt fearfully.


    Eileen opened the door and continued, ¡°Weren¡¯t you sorry about what happened? You should show


    your remorse through actions. Is that so difficult?¡±


    Josie looked at the brightly lit vi. It did not look like it could be a restaurant. ¡°I can talk to Dexter and


    ask him to help Laxir Corporation. Please send me home now.¡±


    Eileen¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I¡¯m the only one here. Are you scared that I might kill you? Why would


    I? You¡¯re not worth that much trouble.¡±


    Josie bit her lip and hesitated before exiting the car. She checked her phone as she followed Eileen,


    but Dexter still had not replied to her message.


    She entered the vi and was instantly pinned to the floor. At the same time, numerous bodyguards


    surrounded her. She screamed, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    The bodyguards were strong and restrained her easily. Josie panicked and looked up to find a


    potbellied man descending the stairs leisurely. The man seemed to be their leader. Heughed and


    said, ¡°You must be Ms. Warren. Nice to meet you. I¡¯m Mr. Harris.¡±


    Josie widened her eyes in terror. ¡°What are you¡­¡±


    Eileen had suddenly disappeared.


    The man approached Josie and reeked of cigarettes. He touched her face and was delighted to find


    her young and pretty. He loved how soft her skin felt under his fingers and would not stop touching her.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite famous in Wavery recently. I heard powerful men backed you. You had Arnold from Carter


    Group and Dexter from Russell Group at your beck and call. I¡¯ve always wondered how you managed


    to keep them under your thumb. But seeing you today, I know it¡¯s not due to your looks. You¡¯re a little


    lacking in that department.¡±


    ¡°Since my look iscking, you should let me go!¡± Josie could tell he was up to no good.


    That won¡¯t do. I want a good taste of the woman that Dexter and Arnold fought over for.¡± The man


    smiled sinisterly.


    Josie trembled with fear and felt she was stupid to have followed Eileen. She shouted, ¡°Get off mel¡±


    ¡°Dexter must be in Wavery. I¡¯m curious to see if he woulde here to save you. It gives me enough


    time to see how good you are in bed. That must be why he fell so hard for you!¡±

 Chapter 435

    Chapter 435 Mrs Russell Has Gone Missing


    Dexter had not replied to Josie¡¯s message, so she thought it would take some time before he found her. At that thought, her heart sank as desperation crept into her.


    ¡°Don¡¯te near¡­¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    When Dexter received the news, he was pouring away the medicine in front of Summer. ¡°If you cross the line again, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless.¡±


    ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    Suddenly, Dexter¡¯s secretary rushed in and whispered in Dexter¡¯s ear, ¡°Mr. Russell, Mrs. Russell has gone missing!¡±


    Dexter became alert immediately, with his eyes filled with murderous intentions. He grabbed the jacket and ordered, ¡°Get the car ready!¡±


    Summer didn¡¯t dare to breathe for a moment. Her intuition was right-she knew Josie was in trouble. Otherwise, Dexter wouldn¡¯t respond in such a manner.


    She quickly followed up with Dexter, then stopped and called Mark. ¡°Dad, please help me investigate a person.¡±


    After a while, Mark replied, ¡°Someone is pulling the strings behind this. The one who authorized it was Norman Harris. I reckon he offered Mrs. Russell to a higher-up.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s visage became stern at once, and his temples were throbbing. ¡°He must be tired of living!¡± He spat through gritted teeth.


    He checked his phone and saw a few unread messages and missed calls from Josie. He felt like his heart was pierced when he saw the nickname ¡®Baby Jo


    He dialed a series of numbers while instructing his secretary, ¡°Go and investigate Eileen Shaw!¡±


    The car was already waiting outside the hotel. When the driver opened the door, Dexter got into the car with a solemn look while holding his phone.


    It didn¡¯t take long before the call went through.


    Dexter smiled and said, ¡°Mr. Lawson, it¡¯s Dexter. I guess you¡¯re at Wavery tonight.¡±


    Despite being in a critical and urgent situation, Dexter spoke lightly with a faint smile so that one couldn¡¯t read his mind.


    The ck Porsche sped away like a bullet. Moses ran several red lights along the way. The secretary at the shotgun seat dared not make a sound as he had foreseen the brutal scene tonight.


    Soon, the car stopped at an intersection nearby where the big shots gathered. From afar, Dexter could see the brightly-lit building.


    When he got out of the car, John was already waiting by the roadside, apanied by two suit-d men.


    John aged well and looked like he was in his fifties despite being a man in his sixties. It was usual for officials to cross paths with businessmen. John had watched over the Russell Group in the past years, so Dexter followed the rules and offered him substantial benefits.


    John spoke up immediately when he saw Dexter. ¡°I tried to call them but was declined. The men guarding the entrance look foreign. I reckon this incident is nned. Rest assured. You came on time; there¡¯s no casualty.¡±


    Dexter smirked coldly as the word ¡®nned¡¯ sank in. He had the urge to tear the jerk into pieces.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect him to have an eye on my woman!¡±


    Dexter strode forward but was stopped by John. ¡°Dexter, the incident tonight will surely be exposed. He will be punished and stripped of his position. But don¡¯t forget that for him to be where he is today, he¡­¡±


    Dexter shot a re at John and silenced him.


    ¡°Step aside.¡± Dexter emanated a deadly aura as he walked in darkness.


    The two sturdy bodyguards had received the news about Dexter¡¯s arrival and did not dare to look at him.


    There were dim yellow lights along the path that led to the vi. A faint smell of alcohol permeated the air. Suddenly, Dexter halted his step.

 Chapter 436

    Chapter 436


    Chapter 436 Ruthlessness


    Josie sat on a couch in the living room with a jacket over her shoulder. Her body was drenched with red


    wine. The sight of her timidly lifting her watery eyes made Dexter¡¯s blood boil.


    He silently clenched his fists and continued walking forward. A stout man, whose blouse was


    disheveled, stood at the corner. He chuckled at Dexter and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s a misunderstanding.¡±


    Despite his nonchnt appearance, the words he spat through gritted teeth were tinged with fear. He


    did not expect Dexter toe!


    Dexter let out a cough emotionlessly. ¡°If I didn¡¯t receive the news, you would have gotten your way. But


    s, it seems like I¡¯ve ruined your n!¡± Dexter¡¯s tone was indifferent, yet it made the man a bundle of


    nerves. He waved his hands about and stuttered, ¡°I-It¡¯s not that case¡­¡±


    However, he was caught red-handed and had no room for denial.


    Dexter uttered politely, ¡°It¡¯s my bad for ruining your mood today. What about we switch ces? I¡¯d like


    to drink with you.¡±


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    The man was confused. Narrowing his eyes, he took a few steps back as his fear augmented. ¡°W-We


    can drink next time.¡±


    Suddenly, Dexter grasped his cor with a menacing look. It¡¯s toote for next time!¡±


    Before the man realized what was happening. Dexter punched him in the face, causing his nose to


    bleed.


    The man wailed miserably and covered his nose.


    Moses averted his gaze when he witnessed the bloody scene. He looked at the fragile woman on the


    couch and removed the jacket on her to rece it with his. Josie¡¯s shirt was torn apart, and there were


    red marks on her neck.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Only then did Josie regain herposure. Staring at Moses, she sensed something and turned to look


    at the tall, familiar figure before her.


    As an official whose life was all beer and skittles, the man was defenseless and could only be beaten


    up by the raging Dexter.


    He covered his face and tried not to sound miserable. ¡°Help! Someone,e!¡±


    ¡°Dexter Russell, how dare you offend me for a woman¡¯s sake! You shall bear the consequences


    He yelled for help, but to no avail, as no one dared to step in


    Dexter¡¯s veins throbbed as he clenched his fists and punched the living daylights out of the man. His


    eyes were filled with extreme ruthlessness.


    Josie clutched the jacket on her tightly. He had seen Dexter in this state several times-cach time, he


    intended to beat someone to death!


    She snapped out of her daze and yelled, ¡°Dexter, stop!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s hand stopped midair. The man beneath him was beaten up so badly that he nearly


    lost consciousness


    Looking down at the man condescendingly, Dexter regained his usual dignifiedposure and took


    out a handkerchief from his pocket to wipe his hand. Then, he threw the handkerchief on the ground


    and warned. Tll kill you if this happens again


    Josie could barely walk after the horrifying incident. She faced Dexter and said. ¡°That¡¯s enough¡±


    When Dexter heard her hoarse voice filled with fear, he red up again


    The man, who was lying on the ground, opened his eyes with all his might and threatened ¡®Dexter


    Russell, aren¡¯t you afraid of the consequences for offending me for her?


    Dexter remained motionless and shot a disdainful and rageful re at him. ¡°Bring it o

 Chapter 437

    Chapter 437


    Chapter 437 He Will Receive the Punishment He Deserves


    Given the current situation, it was apparent that Dexter was proving something at the cost of his future


    and even his life.


    ¡°Mark my words. This woman is my life!¡±


    The man was directly messing with Dexter byying a finger on Josie. This score could never be


    settled!


    Intense fear washed over Norman. At the same time, his eyes were filled with fury, swearing to make


    Dexter pay for his impulsiveness.


    Moses supported Josie as they left the vi and got into the car. She didn¡¯t resist, knowing she couldn¡¯t


    walk out on her own, given her current state.


    Under the night sky full of twinkling stars, Dexter¡¯s secretary handed Josie a cup of warm water.


    ¡°Please have some water, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie inhaled deeply and felt her body warm up after drinking the water. ¡°How did Dexter know I¡¯m


    here?¡±


    She thought the news shouldn¡¯t have reached Dexter in such a short time, yet he arrived in


    time.


    ¡°After the clock was sessfully auctioned off, I was informed that you hadn¡¯t returned. I casually


    inquired and was told that someone saw you leaving with Ms. Shaw.¡±


    Josie nodded as a gesture of her appreciation for the secretary¡¯s attentiveness. ¡°I owe you big time.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. By the way, Mr. Russell was enraged.¡± The secretary added.


    Josie tightened her grip on the cup. From how Dexter came in a hurry with a menacing aura, she could


    tell he was furious. Suddenly, something came to her mind, and a smile crept onto her face.


    Moses stood beside the car and said, ¡°He asked you to wait for him.¡±


    The wait seemed tost forever.


    Josie sat alone in the warm car. She embraced herself and rubbed her palm against her arms, still


    feeling cold.


    She snuffled and forcefully suppressed her aggrievance. She agonized at the thought of her


    helplessness a while ago. It had been a long time since she felt this way.


    When she lifted her head, she saw Dexter walking out against the backlight, emanating the same


    hostile air.


    He stopped outside and spoke briefly to Moses. Then, Moses and his secretary left.


    When Dexter got into the car, the atmosphere suddenly became tense. Josie¡¯s heart tightened.


    Dexter silently lowered his body and retrieved a first-aid kit from inside the car. He swiftly took out a


    cotton swab and alcohol and uttered in an unpleasant tone, ¡°Give me your hand.¡±


    He was still angry. Josie¡¯s hand trembled, but she didn¡¯t reach it out. Neither did she lift her eyes to look


    at Dexter.


    Dexter growled fiercely, ¡°Give me your hand or sit here the whole night!¡±


    There was a long gash on Josie¡¯s hand, which she didn¡¯t know when it was caused. The wound was


    still bleeding. Finally, she extended her hand with her eyes downcast, and only then did Dexter¡¯s anger


    subside slightly.


    Her hand was still trembling as she had yet to recover from the fright. Dexter couldn¡¯t put her hand still,


    no matter how hard he tried. Feeling his heart wrenched, he gently dressed her wound.


    ¡°Fret not. He¡¯ll receive the punishment he deserves. Simr incidents won¡¯t happen again.¡± Dexter


    croaked.


    Josie fell silent. Momentster, she blurted, ¡°Eileen brought me here.¡±


    Dexter gently applied a bandage on her wound and hummed, ¡°I know. We¡¯re still investigating.¡±


    ¡°Her reputation was affected recently, and that has to do with me. I don¡¯t wish to implicate her, so


    please don¡¯t make a fuss. We won¡¯t have further interactions in the future.¡±


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    Dexter stopped his action and stared at Josie. ¡°Do you know how you might end up if I cameter?¡±


    His exasperation arose again.


    ¡°I know. But you came, didn¡¯t you?¡± Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes as she gazed at Dexter with hope


    for the first time. ¡°As long as you¡¯re here, I¡¯ll be fine.¡±

 Chapter 438

    Chapter 438


    Chapter 438 Downfall


    ¡°But Eileen is different. I can understand her feelings. It¡¯s me who caused her misfortune, so she


    wanted to put me in deep water. It¡¯s the consequence of our doings. We should bear it.¡± Josie remained


    calm. Even in this state, she could objectively analyze the situation, showing that her rationality was still


    intact. However, looking at Dexter¡¯s response, she knew he wouldn¡¯t easily let Laxir Corporation or


    Eileen off.


    Dexter¡¯s face was as cold as ice. He nced at Josie with murderous intentions in his eyes


    ¡°It¡¯s easy for you to say. Do you know how easily Norman can put someone to death? If it weren¡¯t for


    me, you would¡¯ve died in the deste wilderness, where I wouldn¡¯t have known. There are a lot of


    ways one can die; some can be brutal. Don¡¯t you fear pain the most? Why aren¡¯t you afraid now?¡±


    Josie was taken aback by the unexpected question. Her body was still trembling and she appeared


    stupefied when faced with the angry Dexter.


    Dexter¡¯s heart ached for her even more. He pulled her into his arms and said, ¡°Stop worrying about the


    others, and please stop making me worry too. If one listened attentively, one could perceive the


    apprehension in Dexter¡¯s voice.


    If he didn¡¯t ask her to attend the auction, this incident wouldn¡¯t have happened. Dexter was regretful,


    thinking Josie was involved in more danger by staying beside him.


    Josie hadplicated emotions. The current Dexter was different from his usual cold self. It was as if


    his coldness had shattered.


    Josie soon regained herposure in Dexter¡¯s embrace and calmed down.


    ¡°Have you had the medicine I prepared before I left?¡±


    Dexter was stunned. Due to the misunderstanding, he had poured the medicine away inhaled deeply


    and uttered. ¡°I guess it has turned cold now. I¡¯ll ask the servant to make again, alright?¡±


    Josie snuggled obediently in Dexter¡¯s arms and purred, Tm having menstrual cramps¡±


    Norman didn¡¯t manage to have his way, mainly because it was Josie¡¯s time of the month. Her period


    became her lifesaver.


    On the way back, Josie looked at Dexter¡¯s pale face and asked hesitantly, ¡°What will happen to the


    Russell Group now that you offended a powerful person like him.¡±


    Only then did she remember that to Dexter, anything that could be settled by money and interest was


    not a problem.


    Sure enough, Dexter smiled and asked, ¡°Are you worried about me?¡±


    Josie looked away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the aftermath. I¡¯ll handle it. None of us have been to his vi. His downfall tomorrow


    is a result of his own greed. Do you understand?¡±


    Dexter blurted the words in an apathetic manner, sending a chill down Josie¡¯s spine.


    Her menstrual cramps were so bad that she broke out in cold sweat.


    After returning to the hotel, Dexter made a brown sugar drink for her, but it tasted slightly


    bitter.


    It was rare for Josie to experience such an intense cramp to the extent that she couldn¡¯t fall asleep.


    After taking a shower, Josie decided to rest in the smaller room.


    Just as she was about to exit the room, she bumped into Dexter, who was returning from the study


    room. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Josie lowered her head awkwardly with her cheeks flushed.


    Dexter stared at her and thought of something. ¡°Wait here.¡± He said and walked away.


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Minutester, he returned with a bucket of water. Josie was perplexed while he hummed nonchntly,


    ¡°Sit down.¡±


    A strong smell of alcohol wafted into Josie¡¯s nose. As the door was closed, a warm and ambiguous


    atmosphere filled the room.


    Dexter squatted down and ced Josie¡¯s feet into the water. ¡°Anderson taught me this method.¡±

 Chapter 439

    Chapter 439


    Chapter 439 I¡¯m Here for You


    Anderson received a call from an old friend when hepleted surgery that day. ¡°Hey Anderson,


    what¡¯s the best remedy for period cramps?¡± Dexter asked seriously while Anderson was caught off


    guard by the question. ¡°Huh? Can you repeat?¡±


    Cold and reserved, Dexter repeated himself patiently.


    After understanding Dexter¡¯s intention, Anderson teased him, ¡°You should know that I¡¯m a surgeon, not


    a gynecologist.¡±


    ¡°Both are doctors.¡±


    Anderson burst out inughter. ¡°It seems like you¡¯re pretty concerned. Brown sugar drinks are not


    effective. Mix half a bottle of wine with water and soak her feet in it for half an hour.


    Dexter took Anderson¡¯s words as truth while Josie was rendered speechless. As a woman, she had


    never heard of this method before! However, she didn¡¯t dare to refuse and obediently soaked her feet


    for half an hour while covering her abdomen in pain.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Meanwhile, Dexter was working on hisptop on the balcony. When he finished his work, he checked


    the time on his watch and walked into the room. ¡°Are you feeling better?¡±


    Not at all.


    Josie got up and poured the water away. Then, she opened the window for air cirction as the room


    was filled with the scent of alcohol.


    ¡°Which alcohol did you use?¡±


    Josie was not a wine connoisseur, but she could tell from the scent that it was expensive. She couldn¡¯t


    believe Dexter used it for her foot bath.


    Dexter did not answer but looked at the spot Josie sat.


    Josie followed his gaze and gasped at the sight. She quickly ran up to him to block his sight. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t


    mean it!¡±


    There was a patch of redness on the bed. Josie blushed to the root of her hair and was exasperated


    when she saw Dexter¡¯s smirk as if he was mocking her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at it!¡± Josie was so embarrassed that she instinctively covered Dexter¡¯s eyes with her hand.


    ¡°Stop it!¡±


    The man smiled and paused briefly before grasping her wrist and pushing her to the bed. He kissed her


    fervently, disregarding her abashment.


    Toward the end, Josie curled up in Dexter¡¯s arm, her eyes filled with tears as she was reminded of the


    horrible incident she experienced today.


    Dexter whispered in her ear with a deep, hoarse voice, ¡°Everything is okay now. It has passed. I¡¯m here


    for you, so don¡¯t cry¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Her tears fell into her hair and disappeared. The scent of alcohol lingering


    in the air was intoxicating


    After the auction ended, Josie and Dexter returned to Mason Garden. Soon, news about Norman¡¯s


    downfall spread


    Josie had a premonition that Norman would end up in deep water. Recently, Dexter¡¯s secretary had


    been poached by various important figures and was promised lucrative remuneration because he was


    an extremely effective and reliable assistant. Anyone would yearn to have a loyal and talented


    assistant like him.


    It only took one night for the news about Norman to release. Josie reckoned that if everything went


    smoothly, the news about him being disqualified as a candidate would appear in the evening news.


    Right after Josie was rescued, evidence of his corruption was promptly submitted that same night


    without mercy. It was a crucial period, and Norman was caught with solid evidence. So, he couldn¡¯t


    escape from spending the rest of his life in prison.


    Everyone was aware of these gray areas, but no one would expose one¡¯s opponent¡¯s evildoings to


    make an enemy. However, given how swiftly this exposure was done, others could imagine there must


    be an irreconcble enmity involved. It became obvious that Norman had offended someone.


    This matter had caused a huge sensation in the city and couldn¡¯t be concealed. The following day,


    many became aware that Dexter was behind it

 Chapter 440

    Chapter 440


    Chapter 440 It¡¯s Miss Warren


    Recently, Arnold was upied with handling the Carter Group¡¯s is Upon returning to


    Actly to visit his old man Harry was as bony as a and free of the prison guards the moment he saw him


    sepped Arnold


    Add¡¯d but wood fr


    You rascal how dare you touch thepany¡¯s original shares


    And licked the corner of his month and tasted the tang of blood


    To let with no choice


    He rarely showed ack of confidence, but his silence softened Harry¡¯s heart. Sighing, he held Arnold¡¯s


    face with his cuffed hands and wore a loving expression


    You¡¯re in the best years of your life now. You should start dating someone and get married Since things


    didn¡¯t work out with Lexir Corporation, think of some other ways. It¡¯s a fact that I¡¯ve low to the one, but


    that shouldn¡¯t happen to you again¡±


    The implication behind his words was deep


    Andy waited in the car outside of the prison. When he saw Arnold walk out, he was stunner Mr. Carter,


    you


    Arnold¡¯s expression was extremely domy He pulled a napkin and wiped off the blood a the corner of his


    lips ¡°What happened!


    Andy handed over thetest newspaper Norman Harris has been taken down


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Arnold was startled. He took over de newspaper and read the consent but persuaded ¡°What¡¯s the


    reason?


    He has always been spporting Lair Corporation Recently, Laxir Corporation got to trouble, so he could


    avoid being implicated it was said that his evil deeds were exposed at this crucial te


    ¡°It can¡¯t be a incidence Arnold folded die newspaper and ced it aside. There were no signs at all


    before I left Wavery How fast they a dig up his past crimes in a few days


    Who¡¯s the mastermind


    Andy nodded and cautiously nced at Arld¡¯s salen face. He hesitated briefly before


    wering. ¡°There are rumors that he messed with Me Russell


    Mc Russell w


    Arnold turned to look at Andy. His face darkened even more


    more as he couldn¡¯t believe Andy¡¯s


    It¡¯s Miss Warren


    reply. ¡°Was it Summer?¡±


    Andy lowered his head and mumbled, ¡°I heard it was Ms. Warren.¡±


    At once, Arnold was almost pushed over the edge. His temples throbbed as he asked in a gruff voice.


    ¡°Did he manage to have his way?¡±


    ¡°No. It was said that Mr. Russell arrived in time and beat Mr. Harris into a pulp. Not long after that, Mr.


    Harris was arrested.¡±


    Arnold leaned against the car seat and closed his dry eyes. Andy couldn¡¯t read his expression, but he


    seemed to be relieved.


    Andy bit the bullet and continued, ¡°This incident is somewhat rted to you too. I discovered that it was


    Ms. Shaw who brought Ms. Warren away.


    As soon as Andy said that, Arnold¡¯s private phone rang. He narrowed his eyes and stared at the


    iing caller ID. Secondster, he answered the call. ¡°Hi, Dexter.¡±


    The weather was pleasant today. It was rare for Dexter to have free time. He was sitting in the yard,


    gracefully watering the nts.


    ¡°I heard


    you


    returned to Wavery. I hope all is smooth at your end. Dexter held the phone with one hand and asked


    insouciantly.


    Meanwhile, Josie had just woken up from a nap. She was in a better state after resting for a few days.


    She couldn¡¯t find Dexter after waking up and was told by Julie that Dexter was watering the nts in


    the yard.


    ¡°It seems like he¡¯s in a good mood today.¡± Josie smiled. Just as she was about to go downstairs. she


    spotted something in Julie¡¯s hand. ¡°Aren¡¯t these my hair ties?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. They became loose, so I¡¯m going to throw them away.¡±


    Originally, Josie didn¡¯t pay much attention to it. However, she happened to spot a strange hair tie mixed


    with hers. I don¡¯t think this is mine. Where did you find this?¡±


    ¡°In the luggage which you and Mr. Russell brought back from the hotel.¡±

 Chapter 441

    Chapter 441


    Chapter 441 Let¡¯s Meet Over Tea


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Josie picked up the hair tie and saw a strand of long hair. It was blonde and curly, so Josie was certain


    it didn¡¯t belong to her.


    This must have been left behind by someone who entered our hotel room. Besides, this person is likely


    to be close to Dexter. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have left her hair tie behind.


    Julie asked. ¡°Is there anything wrong?¡±


    Josie put down the hair tie and shook her head with a smile. ¡°Nothing


    She slowed down her steps and went downstairs to see Dexter bending his body to arrange the nts.


    Josie sank into deep thoughts. Ever since he rescued her that night, she had not heard the news of


    Eileen being implicated. However, the incident caused a sensation in the city. Dexter seemed to no


    longer avoid the topic of his wife and even appeared to have the intention to reveal Josie¡¯s identity.


    What about Summer? Is he not concerned about her anymore?


    When Eileen¡¯s father discovered that Eileen was involved in Norman¡¯s incident, he threw a fit.


    Nheless, they were surprised that the consequences did not involve them and were relieved after


    the storm subsided.


    That night, after learning that Josie had been rescued, Eileen immediately went to her father and


    begged him on her knees for protection. She knew she would be doomed since Josie


    didn¡¯t die.


    However, there were no actions taken against her even after a few days, so Eileen was finally


    at ease.


    One day, she received Arnold¡¯s invitation to meet on the top floor of the Carter Group. Arnold uttered


    gently and charmingly, ¡°Eileen, I owe you an apology for the previous incident. Let¡¯s meet over tea, so I


    can apologize to you personally, alright?¡±


    Eileen¡¯s heart pounded heavily as the grievances she had been suppressing the past few days


    surfaced. ¡°Arnold, do you¡­ mean it?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    The Carter Group¡¯s office was equipped with top-notch facilities. A professional secretary was assigned


    to show Eileen the way. ¡°This way, please, Ms. Shaw.¡±


    There was a spacious lounge inside Arnold¡¯s office. Eileen cautiously entered the lounge to


    Let¡¯s Meet Over Tea


    see Arnold, who wore gold-rimmed sses, sitting in front of his desk while brewing rea


    Eileen suddenly felt like crying. The gentleman seated there was someone she had admired for years.


    Hearing the movement. Arnold smiled and took off his sses. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Eileen snapped out of her daze and walked over nervously. She bit her lips and hummed. ¡°Hey,


    Arnold.¡±


    ¡°These tea leaves are imported from The Azores. Although they¡¯re not from the most precious tea


    nts, they¡¯re rarely seen in recent years.¡±


    Eileen received the cup and took a sip. It was slightly astringent but tasty for some reason.


    After finishing the cup, Eileen wore a pitiful look with her eyes turning red-rimmed. ¡°Because of you,


    there have been rumors flying around these days!¡± She squealed.


    Arnold filled her cup and held her hand. On her wrist was the Cartier bracelet he had given her, and it


    covered her faint scar.


    Arnold gently caressed the bracelet while Eileen trembled slightly.


    He looked at Eileen with a half-smile. ¡°You somewhat hate me, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Those who knew Arnold well knew that he was naturally cheerful and was rarely infuriated. Even if he


    became angry, it wouldn¡¯t show on the surface. Such emotion was like a slow- acting poison that


    seeped in gradually. By the time the other party realized it, it would be toote as he would have


    already put the person to death.


    The business circle was full of bizarre happenings, and it was inevitable to encounter a few who


    challenged Arnold¡¯s authority. As such, he would punish those few heavily as a warning to the others.


    In fact, Arnold had personally taken action previously, and only Andy was aware of it.


    He approached that person¡¯s wife and child. Due to his outstanding appearance and shrewdness, no


    woman could resist him if he intentionally pleased her.


    It didn¡¯t take long before he took down that person¡¯s wife, who betrayed her husband lightning-fast.

 Chapter 442

    Chapter 442


    Chapter 442 Three Strikes Law


    When the person discovered it. Arnold was ying with his child at the park. Wearing a pair of sses,


    he smiled maliciously like a snake. ¡°You have one day to write a public apology and announce your


    bankruptcy. Then, leave Wavery¡±


    The man was scared out of his wits when he saw Arnold casually holding the child¡¯s neck without


    exerting force. The child thought he was ying with him, but of course, the man could tell Arnold was


    threatening him.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, if I reveal this matter to the public, my family will be ruined!¡±


    Arnold replied mercilessly, ¡°If you rather see your family die in Wavery. I won¡¯t force you.¡±


    That man nearly fell on his knees. Thereafter, he left Wavery and stayed away from the business circle.


    He started anew in a foreign ce and could only look back at his previous achievements in remorse.


    It was a gray area. Arnold had his dark ways but rarely made a move. Once he was irritated, the


    consequence could be dire.


    What Eileen did had undoubtedly provoked Dexter, but little did she know it Arnold too.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    enraged


    Arnold didn¡¯t bring up the past matters previously because he felt indebted to Eileen and thought she


    had a clear conscience. However, what she did to Josie crossed Arnold¡¯s bottom line.


    In California¡¯s three-strikesw, a convict who repeatedlymitted serious felonies would receive a


    life sentence without parole. The same principle could be applied to other matters in life. Obviously,


    Eileen had received more than three strikes from Arnold.


    Suddenly, Eileen had a dizzy spell and felt ufortable, even more so than when she drank alcohol.


    She didn¡¯t allow herself to lose consciousness. Instead, she boldly fell into Arnold¡¯s arms and grasped


    his cor. ¡°Arnold, Arnold¡­ Josie Warren is a bad woman. Don¡¯t fall in love with her, okay?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s smile faded as he caressed Eileen¡¯s delicate face without expression. ¡°Mm-hmm. Go


    on.¡±


    Eileen saw a glimmer of hope and blurted a sharp remark. ¡°She¡¯s a b*tch!¡±


    ¡°Aah!¡± Suddenly, a piercing scream emerged from the lounge, sending a chill down the spine of those


    outside.


    Three Strikes Law


    Awakened by the pain, Eileen finally regained her senses as she slumped to the ground, looking


    incredulously at the enraged man.


    Later, Andy came in to take care of the rest. The lounge was in disarray. Arnold restored his lofty


    manner and threw away the napkin he used to wipe his hand. ¡°Call the police. Ms. Shaw is using


    drugs. He ordered apathetically.


    Andy was shocked when he saw Eileen, who copsed on the ground miserably. She was trembling


    and muttering, ¡°No¡­ No¡­ I didn¡¯t! Arnold, you can¡¯t do this to me!¡±


    Arnold left resolutely as if the matter was unrted to him.


    Eileen was in immense pain and let out a desperate cry, ¡°Aah-¡±


    Soon, everything was cleaned up.


    Arnold was in his private lounge, standing in front of a row of wine bottles while being lost in thought.


    He could see the entire scenery of Wavery from the lounge.


    Andy walked in and reported, ¡°Everything has been taken care of. Ms. Shaw will soon receive the


    punishment she deserves.¡±


    Arnold hummed in response and pulled out a napkin to wipe his hand. ¡°Go inform Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Dexter hesitated briefly and asked, ¡°Actually, we didn¡¯t have to do Dexter this favor. He can¡¯t


    take action against Laxir Corporation and Eileen due to his promise, but we didn¡¯t have to help him


    either.¡±


    ¡°He knew I would definitely help him,¡± Arnold spoke in a bitter yet aloof manner. ¡°He¡¯s well aware of


    Eileen¡¯s feelings toward me and¡­ my feelings toward Josie, so he knew I would do it.¡±

 Chapter 443

    Chapter 443


    Chapter 443 Starting a Studio Together


    Andy was surprised. ¡°Mr. Carter, with all due respect, with Josie¡¯s identity now, she¡¯s useful, but not in


    this.¡±


    Arnold poured out a ss of wine. His expression made it difficult to see if he agreed. ¡°I know what to


    do.¡±


    ¡°Several of our projects are under Mark Olsen. He has ns to hinder Russell Group¡¯s development.


    Besides, he¡¯s showing us favor now. Summer is our best option at this moment.¡± Andy continued.


    ¡°I¡¯m still unsure what¡¯s on that old man¡¯s mind. Let¡¯s wait and see. Arnold paused. ¡°Make an


    appointment with Summer for me tonight. We¡¯ll meet at Sky Pce.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Andy turned to leave, but Arnold called out. ¡°Did Josie go for the interview?¡±


    ¡°No, sir. She requested an extension when the incident with Eileen Shaw happened.¡±


    ¡°Keep a close eye on them.¡±


    Josie did not go to the designpany that had extended an olive branch to her. The first reason was


    that her body forced her to put it on hold. The second reason was that Laura suddenly came to her and


    invited her to start a studio together.


    ¡°I took some time recently to observe your design styles. Although they arepletely different from


    mine, the aura it brings fascinates me.¡± Laura was still acting like a diva, although she was the one


    making a request.


    Josie flipped through the document Laura brought. She was very interested but had some concerns.


    ¡°You¡¯re married into the Olsen family. Will they allow you to appear in the limelight?¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression turned unnatural when the family was mentioned. ¡°They hardly care about Zach,


    much less me. I¡¯ve been saving up this money for a long time. I didn¡¯t use any of it to have my own


    business one day. This could be greater if my family didn¡¯t go bankrupt.¡±


    Josie believed that Laura had skills. ¡°Why did you choose me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re affordable and useful.¡±


    Josie did not know if she shouldugh or cry at her blunt words. ¡°What I mean is that I¡¯m in a tight spot.


    Are you not worried about the bacsh you¡¯ll get if you work with me?¡±


    Laura averted her eyes. She knew that Josie was referring to Summer. ¡°She¡¯s been unhappy with me


    many times before. This does not make any difference.¡±


    Josie contemted. She was interested. Laura would oversee the funds, and she would provide the


    skills. Laura even promised to give her half the dividends of the studio. They would both be owners. It


    was far better than being a corporate ve.


    ¡°There¡¯s not many that I can trust nowadays. I¡¯ve never imagined you would be one of them.¡± As Laura


    said those words, her voice was cold.


    ¡°It¡¯s my honor.¡± Josie put the documents back in order. ¡°Give me two days to think about it. I¡¯ll give you


    my answer as soon as possible.¡±


    Toward the end of their discussion, Laura sipped the cup of coffee the servants had prepared. She


    observed the house. The well-kept space felt like home.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Dexter treats you well,¡± she said matter-of-factly.


    ¡°Only the one who¡¯s involved would know the truth.¡±


    Josie stared at the scar on her wrist. She hesitated but did not ask the question.


    ¡°It looks like someone¡¯s dream is going to shatter.¡± Laura smiled and got up to leave. But when she


    raised her head, a man wasing toward them.


    The tall, slim body was in a white shirt. The man was rolling up his sleeve as he headed toward them


    against the light. ¡°Laura.¡±


    ¡°I see you¡¯re here, Mr. Russell.¡±


    He hummed in reply but turned to Josie with a questioning look.


    ¡°Laura¡¯s here to discuss work. I¡¯m sending her out.¡± Josie began heading out, but the man held her arm


    as she walked by.


    ¡°Wait. There¡¯s some soot on your forehead.¡± Pulling her nearer naturally, he cupped her head and


    gently cleaned the spot. The tender look in his eyes was not something one could pretend to have.

 Chapter 444

    Chapter 444


    Chapter 444 Liana Olsen


    Josie felt embarrassed with others watching. ¡°There are people around¡­.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Dexter smiled. ¡°Laura¡¯s one of us. Why are you embarrassed?¡±


    Laura smiled. ¡°Wow, Mr. Russell. You¡¯re making me jealous. In that case, I should call her my sister-in-


    law.¡±


    ¡°Then why haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie choked when she heard them. She pulled Laura. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    As they stepped into the front yard of Mason Garden, Laura¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°Do you know


    they arrested Eileen?¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile froze. ¡°I didn¡¯t hear that. When did it happen?¡±


    ¡°Yesterday. They took her in under suspicion of ingesting drugs.¡±


    The weather was bright and sunny. But all Josie felt was the chills on her back. ¡°Did she really?¡±


    Laura stared straight at her. ¡°No one knows if it¡¯s true. But that¡¯s what happened.¡±


    Josie could see the spots they were standing in just moments ago. Dexter¡¯s tall figure bent down as he


    cared for a potted nt. The rays of sun shining down on him made it a pleasing


    scene.


    Laura noticed and looked back. She sighed. ¡°You shouldn¡¯tpletely trust the words of the men in


    this circle. It¡¯s best to leave, but if you can¡¯t, just turn a blind eye. Don¡¯t end up like her.


    Josie could not identify her own feelings. It was the truth that Eileen had hurt her. But she did hurt


    Eileen before that. It was a never-ending cycle of harming each other.


    Laura was already in the driver¡¯s seat and switched the engine on. Josie suddenly remembered


    something and stopped the door from closing. She leaned closer. ¡°Laura, do I look very simr to


    someone?¡±


    Laura¡¯s actions became stiff. She pressed her lips into a thin line. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°When Dexter and I got married, one of the reasons was because I looked like someone. All I know is


    that she¡¯s called Leanne. But that¡¯s probably not a secret.¡± Josie continued slowly, ¡°I¡¯m wondering if this


    person is the same one Mark has been missing.¡±


    Laura slowly released her foot that was on the elerator. She squinted as the sunlight gleamed at


    her.


    She said slowly, ¡°You didn¡¯t know? Leanne was an Olsen. Her full name was Liana Olsen. She was


    Mark¡¯s eldest daughter.¡±


    A sharp humming started in Josie¡¯s ear. Laura¡¯s mouth kept moving, but Josie could not hear anything


    else. She could not move her body as though it was paralyzed from being electrocuted.


    ¡°Liana disappeared when she was very young. Mark and his wife were devastated. They only had Zach


    and Summer a yearter. Now that you say it, your eyebrows and eyes look the same. No wonder


    Dexter has a soft spot for you.¡±


    Not only Dexter but even Mark was also particrly caring for Josie.


    Summer must have known, or she would not have asked me to change into the dress when I met Mark.


    I must have looked identical to Liana at that time.


    ¡°Josie! Are


    you listening?¡± Laura raised her voice, and Josie was pulled back to reality.


    She forced a smile. Thanks for telling me. Now I know.¡±


    Laura hesitated. ¡°Did you meet Mark?¡±


    Jodie continued smiling without a word. She took a few steps back. ¡°You can go now. Drive safe.¡±


    It turned out that Leanne was the Olsen¡¯s missing daughter. It was not surprising to see a valuable gem


    being cared for attentively. People have different lives, regardless of how simr they may look.


    Josie stood at the same spot and could not help but smile bitterly. It felt like she had stolen another


    person¡¯s ce in their life.

 Chapter 445

    Chapter 445


    Chapter 445 He Got Married Because It Was Her


    When they returned to the Mason Garden, Josie¡¯s face was a mask of shock and confusion. Her eyes


    were wide and unblinking; the color all drained from her face.


    Dexter noticed her distress and put down his newspaper. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked, reaching out to


    touch her forehead.


    Josie forced a smile and lifted her phone. ¡°I just got a notification that the daughter of the CEO of Laxir


    Corporation was caught taking drugs,¡± she answered.


    Dexter¡¯s face was thundercloud, but he quickly regained hisposure. ¡°Wavery is a city that has a


    zero-tolerance policy for drug use,¡± he said. ¡°She deserves to be punished.¡±


    Josie stared at Dexter, her eyes full of doubt. ¡°Is it simply a coincidence that the daughter of the CEO of


    Laxir Corporation was caught taking drugs?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face turned to stone as Josie¡¯s words sank in. ¡°It¡¯s not me,¡± he said, his voice calm without a


    hint of uneasiness.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that he was involved in the drug bust, even though she had no evidence.


    Hence, she could only rely on his expressions to give away the answer to her doubts.


    Josie lowered her head in shame. I¡¯m so sorry for suspecting you,¡± she said. ¡°I know you would never


    do anything like that.¡±


    ¡°Dexter,¡± Josie wrapped her arms around Dexter¡¯s waist and held him close. ¡°I just don¡¯t know how to


    repay you,¡± she said. ¡°You¡¯ve been too good to me.¡±This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Although he had broken her heart before, Josie¡¯s heart thawed through spending time with him. He had


    his guard up most of the time, but she knew he loved her.


    Dexter stroked Josie¡¯s hair lovingly, his touch like a warm nket. ¡°Isn¡¯t it good like this?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never expected you to repay me for anything.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes started to well up in tears as she cautiously whispered, ¡°Are you nice to me because I¡¯m


    Josie? Or is it because I look like Leanne?¡±


    As soon as these words left her mouth, Dexter¡¯s muscles went rigid, and his eyes narrowed like


    daggers.


    ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    Josie felt her eyes sting with a sense of overwhelming despair as his reaction was evident to his true


    thoughts. ¡°No one needed to tell me anything. Mark told me I looked like someone


    He Got Married Because It Was Her


    he knew, but it couldn¡¯t be his past lover as he had a stable marriage.¡±


    ¡°It would be rare to have three people looking identical in your social circle. Therefore, he must be


    referring to the same person. Leanne is Liana Olsen, the Olsen family¡¯s daughter, right?¡±


    Josie spoke slowly. Dexter¡¯s face turned grimmer at every passing second.


    ¡°So? You think that I got married to you because of Leanne?¡± he asked, his voice cold and his words


    demanding through his clenched jaws.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it the truth?¡± Josie couldn¡¯t shake off her doubts. ¡°The main reason you treated me so well was


    because of Liana, right?¡±


    Dexter was stunned by her straightforwardness, unable to utter a single word in response.


    Josie took his silence as an affirmation of her suspicions, and she started to walk away when he pulled


    her back tightly. The edges of his face hardened, stinging with fresh fury as he led her outdoors and


    into the car.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Josie wanted to run away, but he pinned her down onto the car seat with his


    strong arms, pulling the seat belt over her.


    Dexter¡¯s arms rested on the car door when the corner of his lips lifted into a smirk. ¡°You can never be


    satisfied,¡± he scoffed.


    He took hold of the steering wheel, leaving Mason Garden.


    Josie wouldn¡¯t let him have his way, especially when her mind was a whirlwind of emotions. ¡°You


    couldn¡¯t deny that you¡¯ve only been nice to me because you saw me as a substitute for Liana, her


    words were like daggers to the heart, evidence of the weight of emotions she had carried in her heart.


    Remembering that he had lost his temper towards her because of Leanne in the past, anything she


    said couldn¡¯t have strayed far from the truth.


    The edges of his features were tensed but showed no hint of what was going through his mind. He


    drove with one hand on the wheel and sent a message on his phone.


    ¡°Where on Earth are you taking me?¡±

 Chapter 446

    Chapter 446


    Chapter 446 Giving Her a Tattoo


    Dexter wouldn¡¯t answer her. He brought the car to a stop at a rather vibrant area away from the city that


    bustled with noise.


    Despite thete hour, the ce was buzzing with crowds of people.


    Josie stood still,pletely bewildered.


    She had stayed in Wavery for two years, but she never knew they had a night market here.


    What was even more startling was that Dexter would take her there.


    ¡°Get down,¡± he uttered coldly.


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure what he wanted to do. Josie¡¯s frustrations were building up inside her like a volcano,


    ready to erupt at any moment.


    Dexter was dressed in a crisp white shirt and ck cks; his casual and easygoing look was a stark


    contrast to the poster-filled walls and shouting of vendors.


    Josie followed behind him without knowing their destination.


    When they walked toward the end of the alley, they reached a small, rundown parlor. An old vintage


    bicycle was lying by the side.


    Inside, the shop was lit with a warm yellow glint.


    The people inside were either lying down fully or sitting on a chair, their faces contorted in pain as they


    cried out in agony. The tattoo artist stood in front of them, their needle moving quickly and efficiently as


    he drew on their skin.


    It was a tattoo parlor.


    Dexter walked in casually and was greeted by an old man who was hunched over. The man smiled


    politely at him. ¡°Everything is ready.¡± he said.


    Josie didn¡¯t understand why Dexter had brought her here. Their screams were like nails on a


    chalkboard, making Josie¡¯s skin crawl.


    She stood at the entrance, afraid to enter the tattoo parlor.


    Dexter wouldn¡¯t make her get a tattoo here, would he?


    Dexter turned around and nced toward Josie. ¡°Get in here,¡± he demanded.


    Giving Her a Tattoo


    Josie shook her head, her legs rooted to the ground.


    With an icy re, hemanded her to go in.


    Josie could hear her pulse throbbing in her ears. ¡°I don¡¯t want to go in,¡± she answered timidly.


    Dexter marched to her and carried her up by her waist.


    ¡°Let go of me! I don¡¯t want to get a tattoo!¡± Josie eximed in shock and fear.


    Dexter stayed silent and tossed her on the bed. His eyes were like two empty sockets, devoid of all


    emotions. Without dy, he wrapped her arms and legs with the ribbons attached and closed the


    curtains around her.


    Josie¡¯s mouth dropped open in shock, and her heart pounded against her ribs. Dexter looked like an


    executioner, ready to carry out a death sentence on her.


    ¡°Don¡¯te near me!¡±


    Josie¡¯s voice twinged with desperation as she feared his merciless acts.


    Someone wrapped an apron around Dexter¡¯s waist and ced the tattoo supplies beside him.


    Josie struggled to free herself, but she was pinned to the bed.


    ¡°Dexter, I admit I was wrong to doubt you,¡± she whimpered. ¡°Please let me go. I¡¯m afraid of needles.


    What if Liana had a tattoo, and Dexter wanted to give her a simr one because she angered him?


    Dexter bit his lower lip, his eyes narrowing as he saw the fear in Josie¡¯s eyes. ¡°Calm down. This won¡¯t


    hurt as much as you think,¡± he remarked.


    Josie was terrified of the pain.


    Nheless, Dexter was unmoved by Josie¡¯s reaction. He picked up the tattoo needle and unbuttoned


    her blouse, revealing her bare skin.


    Josie closed her eyes tightly, her body shaking with fear. She could feel the needle getting closer to her


    skin, and she knew that there was nothing she could do to stop it.


    The needle pierced her skin, and Josie gasped in pain. She slowly opened her eyes.


    Dexter¡¯s face was lowered, his eyes fixed on Josie¡¯s waist. He held the tattoo gun, carefully drawing


    lines on her waist. Ouch! It hurts really bad. However¡­ the ce he was tattooing was over her scar.


    It was where she suffered a slit from the knife attack. Although Dr. Monte had given her an ointment to


    help fade the scar, it stood out starkly against her pale skin.


    Josie had never talked about the scar before. She was self-conscious about it, and she didn¡¯t want


    anyone to see it. After all, anyone would be devastated to have such a big scar on their body. It also


    meant she couldn¡¯t wear any tops that exposed her waist.


    She finally stayed still, and Dexter clearly knew what thoughts were going through her head. ¡°A girl


    shouldn¡¯t have a scar this big, Dexter muttered.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

 Chapter 447

    Chapter 447


    Chapter 447 Thorns


    Josie felt her heart swell at his words, but she couldn¡¯t help but find fault with him. ¡°Are you saying that


    I look ugly with this scar?¡±


    Dexter froze, his eyes narrowing as he looked at her. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to suffer more pain, stop saying


    nonsense,¡± he warned, his voice cold and threatening.


    Josie had no intention of stopping there. ¡°Liana never had a scar before, right? Why are you going to


    such an extent for me?¡± she asked, her eyes challenging him.


    Dexter kept silent, his jaw clenched. He was not going to give her the satisfaction of answering her


    question. Josie felt bored talking to herself.


    She could feel the needle pricking her skin and bit her lip to keep herself from crying out in pain. She


    looked down at the bedsheets and noticed her hands were clenching the fabric tightly.


    ¡°Let go,¡± Dexter said, his voice sharp.


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Her fingers were red, almost bruising from holding on too tightly.


    ¡°It hurts!¡± Josie cried out, her voice filled with pain.


    Dexter threw a sponge at her. ¡°Hold this,¡± he demanded.


    She did not expect Dexter to show consideration for her situation, and she was surprised by his sudden


    act of kindness.


    ¡°Why do you know how to tattoo?¡± she inquired.


    ¡°I learned it a few years ago.¡±


    Josie¡¯s fear and frustration began to manifest as she couldn¡¯t see what he was tattooing on her. ¡°I want


    a nice tattoo,¡± she started mumbling, her voice increasingly agitated. ¡°Do you even know how to draw?


    Are you good at drawing? Are you sure you can do this?¡±


    Dexter ignored her anxious questioning, his focus unwavering.


    Josie¡¯s skin was as pale as porcin. The blood seeped out as soon as the needle touched her skin,


    leaving a satisfactory visual contrast between the deep red blood and bright skin.


    Dexter¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and down as he swallowed hard. He wanted to torment and make


    her tears fall as she moaned in pain.


    ¡°I heard that a tattoo had to be something meaningful so that you can remember it for life,¡±


    Josie said. After a pause, she continued. ¡°Dexter, do you want me to remember this scar forever?¡±


    Dexter finally looked at her. Her face was all scrunched up from enduring the pain


    After mulling over his thoughts briefly, he said, ¡°I didn¡¯t marry you because of Liana.¡±


    Josie stared at him, unsure of how she should respond.


    ¡°I did get the two of you mixed up at the start. It had already been twenty years since Ist saw Leanne.


    No matter how close we were when we were young, I wouldn¡¯t let that friendship affect my rtionship


    with you.¡±


    His voice washed over her doubts like a warm wave, banishing them from her mind.


    Dexter continued to work on the tattoo.


    ¡°I feel indebted to her, but to you, I feel every other emotion there is.¡±


    ¡°Can you please believe me?¡± his eyes met hers warmly as he pleaded.


    Josie¡¯s heart was hammering in her chest as she stared at the face inches away from hers.


    His attention was unwavering when he was hard at work. The angles on his face were sharp and


    chiseled as if they had been carved from stone. His dark, profound eyes gazed straight into hers as if


    he was focusing on his work withser-like precision.


    As he was afraid she would whimper in pain from the piercing of the needle, he tried to be as gentle as


    he could.


    His face was so close she could see the peach fuzz on his face.


    And at that moment, she got carried away.


    ¡°Can I believe you?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Definitely,¡± he replied. His answer was concise, with an air of resoluteness and determination. It was


    simple but deeply significant after what they had been through together.


    Two hours.


    They stayed in the same position for two hours.


    ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±


    After it waspleted, Dexter organized the tools beside him.


    Josie immediately bounced out of bed and looked into the mirror.


    He had tattooed green thorns on her waist, covering her scar.


    She couldn¡¯t see clearly as her skin was still red, but she knew it would look beautiful after it healed.


    Dexter took off the apron and stared at her. When he noticed how her lips had curled into a smile, he


    slowly expanded his lips into a wide grin.


    ¡°What does this tattoo mean?¡±


    ¡°Mine,¡± Dexter hugged her from behind, pulling on her blouse as he leaned closer. ¡°You¡¯re mine this


    lifetime,¡± he answered with conviction, clearly insinuating that the thorns were to keep her by his side.

 Chapter 448

    Chapter 448


    Chapter 448 Uncle Owen


    The curtains opened, and the boss entered. ¡°Are you done?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Yes, thank you for helping.¡± Dexter answered, his voice respectful and deferential.


    Owen waved his hands dismissively. His curiosity was piqued as he asked, ¡°And this is?¡±


    He was asking about Josie.


    ?Josie¡¯s eyes shifted with uncertainty, pondering how to answer this question.


    Should I say I¡¯m his girlfriend?


    She subconsciously stepped back as she felt pressured by the situation.


    Suddenly, Dexter grabbed Josie¡¯s wrist and pulled her to the front. ¡°I¡¯m already married, Uncle Owen.


    She¡¯s my wife, Dexter said nonchntly.


    Josie felt a shiver run down her spine.


    Feeling incredulous over his blunt statement, she blinked repeatedly in shock.


    ¡°You¡¯re married? That¡¯s great!¡± Owen chuckled in delight and patted Josie¡¯s shoulder, then proceeded


    to say, ¡°Let¡¯s go! I¡¯ll take you guys for some good food.¡±


    ¡°Ah?¡± Josie¡¯s eyes bulged from the abrupt invitation.


    Dexter signaled her to follow Owen.


    Josie wouldn¡¯t have believed it if she hadn¡¯t seen it with her own eyes. She never thought the man who


    made important decisions with millions of dors at stake would be sitting by the roadside, savoring


    food from a food truck.


    He also didn¡¯t look disgusted or unwilling to be there at all.


    Owen ordered a few bottles of beer, clearly excited to see Dexter. ¡°I¡¯ve watched Dex grow up since he


    was a boy. It¡¯s been so long since then,¡± he said to Josie.


    The sudden revtion of Dexter¡¯s past caught her off guard.


    Dexter poured some beer for Owen. ¡°I¡¯ve been really busy these few years,¡± he answered coolly.


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a fool? You don¡¯t have to keep your guard up in front of me,¡± Owen replied.


    Dexter fell silent.


    He was really tall, and he barely fit into the small bench by the food truck. The man¡¯s legs dangled


    awkwardly off the side of the bench.


    As she munched on the tacos, Josie asked, ¡°What happened? I¡¯m really curious to know


    Owen gave a knowing smile and didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°It¡¯s good as long as you¡¯re here to see me,¡± he answered, swiftly changing the topic. ¡°You¡¯re the first


    lady I¡¯ve seen around him. How long did you guys date before you got married?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve only seen one because we rarely meet,¡± Dexter interjected with a hint of mischief.


    As soon as he said that, Owen knocked on his head with his knuckles. ¡°Are you proud that you¡¯ve had


    so many ex-girlfriends?¡±


    Josie chuckled loudly at their friendly banter.


    Dexter shot an icy re at her.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Josie Warren.¡±


    Owen looked closely at her face as he uttered her name. ¡°You look a lot like..¡± he mumbled.


    ¡°Uncle Owen, she¡¯s not Leanne, Dexter chimed in, his voice calm andposed. ¡°She¡¯s my wife,


    Josie.¡±


    Owen froze for a short moment before downing his beer. ¡°Alright! It¡¯s good that you¡¯re no longer stuck


    in the past. Treat her well, Dex!¡±


    Dexter frowned, but he had no choice but toply with his advice. ¡°I understand,¡± he answered


    indifferently.


    The sky was a vast canvas painted with a million stars. The crescent moon hung like a teardrop,


    dangling from the edge of the sky, its silver light glinting off the stars like diamonds.


    They caught a whiff of the mouth-watering aroma of grilled beef as the wind blew through the alley. The


    ce they sat was bustling with activity, the chatter of the people filling the air like a symphony. They


    looked as if they belonged there.


    Owen was drunk, lying on the table with his eyes closed.


    The silence at the table hung heavy, and she felt uneasy sitting there.


    ¡°Do you want to y a game?¡± Dexter asked enthusiastically.


    Josie tilted her head slightly. ¡°What game?¡±


    ¡°Chemin de fer, best of five wins, and the dealer is decided through drawing lots,¡± Dexter exined and


    requested a deck of cards from the food truck owner. He then swiftly shuffled the cards.


    Josie wasn¡¯t too familiar with the game.


    She rested her head on one of her palms and nodded. ¡°What¡¯s the bet?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t have anything in mind. ¡°We¡¯ll try one round first.¡±


    Josie dealt the cards. She already thought of what was on the line for the game. She was sure Dexter


    would never agree to it, so it would leave him no choice but topensate with money.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 449

    Chapter 449


    Chapter 449 Card Game


    When that moment arrived, she would say, ¡°We¡¯ll see how sincere Mr. Russell is.


    During the first two rounds, Dexter gave her some tips and lost miserably to her.


    ¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t hide her joy as her eyes lit up with excitement. She was intrigued to see Dexter getting


    defeated, forgetting all about her rage toward him.


    Dexter was unfazed by the situation, signaling her to continue with a wide grin on his face.


    Dexter won the next round, and as Josie was slowly warming up to the game, he won another round.


    Josie started to panic as she stared into his eyes. ¡°Did you cheat?¡±


    Dexter opened up his palms before her. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re underestimating me too much?¡± he


    scoffed.


    It seems so.


    Josie felt uneasy as she dealt thest round of cards. She held her breath as she stared intensely at


    Dexter¡¯s hands.


    Dexter ced his cards down. ¡°Are you afraid I would win?¡± he snorted.


    I¡¯m afraid you would y tricks behind my back, she replied as if she had zero intention to do so.


    Dexter stayed silent as he peeked at his final card, his fingers tapping on the table.


    Josie¡¯s nerves were on edge. She hated how calm andposed he looked as if he had everything


    wrapped around his finger. His expression seemed to be indicating that he was


    about to win.


    Dexter peered at her shaking hands for a moment, then tossed his card on the table with a smirk.


    It was the three of spades.


    Dexter lost!


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°You lost!¡± Josie¡¯s eyes gleamed with a glint of triumph. She almost shot up from the table, feeling


    overjoyed by her win.


    She couldn¡¯t stop smiling from ear to ear about her win against Dexter.


    ¡°I lost.¡± Dexter admitted calmly. ¡°What do you want me to do?¡±


    How many people longed to hear the CEO of the Russell Group utter the words ¡°I lost¡±?


    After contemting what she wanted, she asked, ¡°Would you do anything I ask?¡±


    ¡°As you wish.


    Before she could answer, Owen woke up from his sleep and yawned. ¡°It¡¯s getting veryte. You guys


    should head home now.¡±


    It didn¡¯t feel right to have Owen treat them, so Dexter eventually paid for their meal.


    When Dexter left to pay the bill, Owen held Josie¡¯s hand and muttered, ¡°Dex hasn¡¯te here in a long


    time, nor has he brought any woman here. He must really treasure you. I hope you guys are happy.


    Her excitement from before immediately died down, as she felt a heavy weight in her chest from his


    words, as if he was making a request to his daughter-inw.


    Owen continued to hold her hand. ¡°I understand that he has a powerful standing and feels distant at


    times. Even as his uncle, I can¡¯t do much to help him. Jo, you have to help me keep an eye on him.¡±


    ¡°He has always been a rebellious kid who would do anything to reach his goals. You have to make sure


    he never does anything that breaks thew.¡±


    Owen¡¯s face was flushed from the alcohol, but his eyes were unwavering.


    Josie wanted to say that she had no control over Dexter¡¯s actions. She knew more or less


    about the illegal activities he was involved in and that he was also an expert at it.


    But she couldn¡¯t say anything when she saw him making an earnest request.


    The elderly man still saw Dexter as a pure, innocent young boy he wanted to protect. He couldn¡¯t bear


    to see him do anything that would hurt himself or others.


    Owen sighed as he looked at the sky. ¡°If he ever mistreats you, you cane here to find me, and I¡¯ll


    give him a lesson,¡± he said firmly.


    Josie let out a big chuckle.

 Chapter 450

    Chapter 450


    Chapter 450 Letting Go of the Past


    When Dexter returned to the table, Josie lifted her head from her arms and stared drowsily into his


    eyes.


    Hisshes were dark and long, and he bore an air of calmness.


    They looked into each other¡¯s eyes, and Josie felt a wave of love and understanding wash over her.


    She knew Dexter understood her, and she felt safe and loved by her husband.


    After a long while, Dexter held her up by her arms. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± he uttered.


    Josie leaned on the wall filled with old vintage murals with her arms folded. She stared warmly towards


    Dexter, who was holding Owen¡¯s arms, sending him back home.


    From where Josie stood, she noticed Dexter cing a card into Owen¡¯s pocket.


    The two of them knew each other¡¯s boundaries, and they respected those boundaries. Hence, they


    showed their care in small, subtle ways.


    Owen held Dexter¡¯s hands and stared knowingly at him with a mischievous smile. Josie, standing


    behind them, was oblivious to their exchange.


    ¡°I saw everything.¡±


    ¡°What did you see?¡± Dexter asked.


    ¡°I saw you exchanged your cards to let her win.¡±


    He witnessed the moment when Dexter exchanged the cards in his hands and how his lips curled into


    a warm and genuine smile when he saw her jump in delight at her win.


    Without denying his words, the corner of Dexter¡¯s lips lifted into a smirk.


    ¡°She¡¯s my wife. I¡¯ll be happy as long as she¡¯s happy.¡±


    Owen held his hands and patted them. ¡°Your mother came here a few days ago.¡±


    Dexter fell silent.


    ¡°She said you¡¯re a good kid, and you helped her when she needed it. Dex, have you forgiven her?¡±


    ¡°A good kid?¡± He repeated the words through his gritted teeth. ¡°I might be a good kid, but I¡¯m not a


    good son.


    Letting Go of the Past


    ¡°Dex, you should try to understand her. She might have things she couldn¡¯t tell you directly.¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with me,¡± he said with a dismissive wave of his hand as they reached the tattoo


    parlor. He turned and walked away, leaving Owen standing there.


    When they left the alley, Josie turned around and nced at the sign, trying to remember the name of


    the road.


    ¡°What¡¯s your rtionship with Owen?¡±


    ¡°Uncle Owen was our butler. He¡¯s the cousin of Xanthe, and he has taken care of me since


    young.


    That¡¯s the reason he¡¯s called Uncle Owen¡­he¡¯s Xanthe¡¯s rtive.


    Dexter didn¡¯te to see him because he had a grudge against Xanthe¡­.


    ¡°After Xanthe left, Uncle Owen also left as he didn¡¯t know how to face us.¡±


    ¡°So you brought me here because you¡¯ve let the past go?


    Dexter tightly gripped her hands and smiled warmly, agreeing silently.


    There¡¯s no point holding a grudge against someone innocent.¡± He lifted his head and looked at the sky.


    ¡°Everyone has to let go of the past eventually.¡±


    Josie also lifted her head up with her hands behind her back. ¡°I could never imagine that I would be in a


    ce like this with you, getting my body tattooed, ying card games, and drinking beer.¡±


    Dexter lowered his head and looked at her. ¡°Do you know that you left out one more thing?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    He bent down slightly and leaned into her ears. ¡°Doing it.¡±


    An air of silence filled the tension between them.


    With a simple phrase, it made their minds race with imagination.


    He kissed her lightly, then after getting a grip of his conscience, he asked, ¡°I lost. What do you want me


    to do?¡±


    Josie froze and tilted her head back slightly to answer him. ¡°I haven¡¯t thought about it,¡± she responded


    truthfully.


    Dexter lowered his head to kiss her again, this time with even more passion.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Letting Go of the Past


    As they hugged tightly, Josie gasped and gripped his arms. She felt a stinging pain at her waist. The


    man trailed his lips along her body, tracing the outline of the thorns he had tattooed on her waist.


    Dexter was a person who took the sexual tension to another level, leaving her with no resistance. His


    eyes were like a dark me, burning with desire.


    Josie felt herself melting under Dexter¡¯s gaze. She knew that she was powerless to resist him.

 Chapter 451

    Chapter 451


    Chapter 451 Zach Olsen


    After being tormented the whole night, Josie finally decided what she wanted from him.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Dexter agreed to her request as he ran on the second-floor gym treadmill. He was sweating


    profusely, exuding his vigor.


    He reached out for the bottle Josie had brought to him. ¡°If you want to do that, go ahead.¡±


    Josie leaned on the running machine, and a smile bloomed across her face. ¡°About the funds¡­¡±


    The man lifted his head and gulped down the water, his Adam¡¯s apple bobbing up and down before he


    said, ¡°I¡¯ll support you.¡±


    Josie shot up and jumped in glee, marking a kiss on the corner of Dexter¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you, honey.¡±


    The word ¡°honey¡± rarely passed her lips, so when she whispered it, it sent a shiver down his spine. By


    the time he had regained his senses, Josie had already skipped away down the corridor, herughter


    echoing in his ears.


    With his approval, Josie epted Laura¡¯s request to open a work studio together. Laura couldn¡¯t cover


    all the finances despite her wealthy background. Hence, if Dexter supported them, their main problem


    would be solved.


    She had been in charge of multiple events in the past, exposing her to many connections who could


    y a part in her new start-up. Moreover, she had gotten the Interior Design Awards, so her ns went


    smoothly, and the process was on a spectacr scale.


    They named the studio ¡°nk, signifying a white piece of paper where they would have a new


    beginning.


    Josie gave a call to Alice. She had been in the industry for many years, and Alice was the person she


    trusted the most. To her delight, thetter said without hesitation, ¡°I¡¯m willing to help you.¡±


    Her determination left Josie startled. ¡°The Russell Group¡­ was your dream ce to work at.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but it is nothingpared to being able to work with you,¡± she answered nonchntly.


    ¡°We have nothing to offer.¡±


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll build it up from ground zero.¡±


    Josie was touched by her words. Alice also brought in two people she trusted from the


    Russell Group, which helped Josie reduce the burden of recruiting new employees.


    When Dexter learned about it, he said teasingly, ¡°Josic, you sure are bold. You are taking away my


    people right under my nose.¡±


    She lifted her chin, looked him in the eyes, and responded, ¡°It¡¯s a little crowded in the Russell Group.


    I¡¯m sure Mr. Russell wouldn¡¯t me me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re a family. It doesn¡¯t matter who they work for. Dexter spoke with a hint of a smile, wrapping his


    arms around her shoulder.


    Seeing how he fully supported her, Josie suddenly felt a pang of guilt.


    The night before the opening of her studio, she noticed a Rolls-Royce parked downstairs when she


    was about to leave. The car te wasn¡¯t Dexter¡¯s. When the windows rolled down, she saw Zach


    Olsen.


    As always, he was prim and proper. ¡°Jo,¡± he called.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to address him. ¡°Laura is still inside. I¡¯ll go get her.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll get her,¡± he announced as he exited the car.


    Laura heard the sound of the busy footsteps entering the studio again; her lips curled into a smile as


    she said, ¡°I told you we could handle this. Why are you so worried?¡±


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    When she finally saw the silhouette of the person standing in front of her, the smile on her face faltered.


    Josie stood behind Zach so she couldn¡¯t see his reaction. ¡°I didn¡¯t see you at home, so I got worried


    and came here to find you,¡±¡°


    Laura immediately kept a straight face, but her mind was racing, and her hands started to tremble. ¡°Oh,


    I¡¯ve been busy, so I got homete.¡±


    Zach approached her and put his hand on her shoulder. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t you text me to tell me you¡¯re


    okay?¡±


    Laura avoided his eyes. ¡°I forgot.¡±


    Josie noticed the corner of Laura¡¯s lips hardened, which was an unusual reaction towards her new


    husband.


    ¡°Since Josie¡¯s here, we¡¯ll send Jo home before heading to our house.¡± Before they left, Zach helped her


    to organize and pack the documents on the table. Alice pulled Josie closer to her andmented,


    ¡°Laura¡¯s husband is really caring towards her. I¡¯m so jealous of them.¡±

 Chapter 452

    Chapter 452


    Chapter 452 Send Her Home


    Josie summoned up a smile, unsure of how to react to her remarks. She couldn¡¯t agree with her.


    As Josie¡¯s house was on the way, Zach offered to send her home. Laura sat in the passenger¡¯s seat.


    Unlike her usual self, she didn¡¯t speak much throughout the duration of the car ride.


    Josie had an inkling suspicion that Laura was afraid of Zach.


    ¡°Jo, thanks for supporting Laura this whole time. She was born with a golden spoon and never had


    much working experience. I¡¯m really d she has you by her side, Zach said as he looked in the


    rearview mirror.


    Josie wanted to say that Laura was naturally gifted in the area, so she didn¡¯t need to help her much,


    but the words got caught in her throat. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t let her do it alone,¡± she answered briefly.


    ¡°You have a unique type of work that requires you to meet up with clients over drinks, but I hope Laura


    can be excluded from that. She has to protect her family¡¯s reputation, so it would be inappropriate if


    people saw her.¡± Zach spoke slowly andposedly; his intentions were clear as day.


    Josie nced towards Laura, noticing that her face had turned ashen pale.


    ¡°Well, of course, Mr. Olsen. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll have your wife sent home safely,¡± she smiled as she


    jokingly continued, ¡°Laura is lucky to have such a good husband who loves her, unlike mine, who hasn¡¯t


    even called me even though I¡¯m not home at thiste hour.


    Zach lowered his eyes, and a scornful appearance painted the corner of his lips, ¡°Well, I have to make


    sure she doesn¡¯t make a fool out of herself by causing trouble outside.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Laura bristled at his rudeness.


    Zach nced at her and stayed silent. The corner of his lips still curled up.


    Josie couldn¡¯t force anyughter anymore. Luckily for her, they had reached Mason Garden, and


    Dexter¡¯s car had just parked outside. As the door opened, he got down from the car, and his secretary


    signaled to him about the other car parked outside.


    The car lights were blinding, so Dexter narrowed his eyes and asked, ¡°Zach?¡±


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    ¡°Dex.¡± Zach answered as he turned off his car¡¯s engine.


    Josie got down from the car and waved to Laura. ¡°Thanks for sending me home. I¡¯ll see you


    tomorrow.


    Dexter wrapped his arm around her shoulder and nodded at Zach. ¡°Have a safe trip back.¡±


    Josie finally let out a big sigh after they left. I¡¯m not sure why, but I feel that Zach isn¡¯t as gentle as he


    looks. Laura seems to be afraid of him too,¡± she said as they walked into Mason Garden.


    Dexter acted like he didn¡¯t hear what she said. ¡°Why are you back thiste?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow¡¯s the opening of our studio.¡± Seeing how he had forgotten, she put her arms on her waist


    and pretended to be angry. ¡°You don¡¯t seem to care about your wife. Not only did you forget tomorrow


    is the opening day of our studio, but you also didn¡¯t offer to fetch me from work.¡±


    Dexter smirked at her and asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t you check your phone and see who¡¯s the one who didn¡¯t


    reply to their messages?¡±


    Arching an eyebrow, Josie took out her phone from her pocket and was stunned to see the messages


    asking her when she would be getting off work. She didn¡¯t reply to any of them.


    ¡°I was too busy¡­¡±


    ¡°Ms. Warren, would you like a warm bath?¡± Dexter helped her remove her coat and passed it to their


    maid.


    ¡°That would be perfect!¡±


    Laura had rented the entire twenty-eighth floor of the office building next to the Russell Group for a


    year, and their new studio was ready to open the next day. It was a major undertaking, and many


    partners had sent them flower baskets and gifts to celebrate. Alice felt like her hand was giving in as


    she needed to note them down.


    Josie invited Paul to witness the significant event of her business opening.


    Dexter¡¯s secretary, Larry, greeted Josie in a formal suit. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell asked me to


    congratte you on your opening.


    Josie felt embarrassed by her father¡¯s keen stare. ¡°Thank you foring. Where is Dexter?¡±


    Larry handed her a file and exined. Josie opened the file and was surprised to see theyout design


    of the business district in the southern part of the city.


    She raised her eyebrows, feeling overwhelmed by what she saw.

 Chapter 453

    Chapter 453


    Chapter 453 An Overwhelming Gift


    ¡°It¡¯s for you, Mrs. Russell. Mr. Russell knows you¡¯re setting up a newpany without many clients yet,


    so he wanted to give this to you.¡±


    Dexter had an extravagant surprise for her. With this alone, they could sustain the studio for two


    quarters.


    ¡°Help me to thank him,¡± Josie tried to hide her smile, but her eyes gleamed with joy. Why didn¡¯t he tell


    me anything yesterday?


    After Larry left, Josie noticed Paul looking outside the office window with an indiscernible expression.


    Josie approached him and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Paul? Aren¡¯t you happy for your daughter?¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m happy,¡± Paul answered, holding onto a walking stick. ¡°I¡¯m proud to see how far you¡¯ve


    come.¡±


    ¡°I have greater heights to achieve,¡± Josie said, her voice light but filled with conviction.


    ¡°Have you decided to be with him forever?¡± Paul asked out of the blue, without referring to Dexter


    directly.


    Josie¡¯s lips curled into a smile as she nodded her head. ¡°I¡¯ve thought about it. I¡¯m willing to go through


    thick and thin with him.¡±


    Paul mulled over what she said as he patted her head. After a deep sigh, he said, ¡°It¡¯s your choice. If


    you¡¯re willing to stay by his side unconditionally, I¡¯ll support you.¡±


    Suddenly, Alice shouted from the outside, ¡°Jo, there¡¯s another flower basket for you. Come and take a


    look.¡±


    ¡°It must be Laura¡¯s friend.¡± Josie walked out and saw a huge flower basket ced at their entrance.


    Her eyes widened in shock when she read the card attached to it.


    The card was imprinted with the words, ¡®Congrattions on your opening.


    And there was a signature below, ¡°Arnold Carter.


    He hadn¡¯t shown up in a long while, and Josie had entirely lost touch with him. His sudden appearance


    today made her heart sink.


    The summer weather was as unpredictable as ever. The sun had been shining brightly just a few hours


    ago, but now a thunderstorm was raging overhead. The rain fell in torrents, and


    An Overwhelming Gift


    there was no sign of it letting up anytime soon.


    A youngdy with curled hair framing her gorgeous face stood in front of the vi with an umbre. She


    had been there the whole day.


    The vi was located by the beach. In the brief sh of lightning, the vi appeared, its unique and


    beautiful design silhouetted against the night sky.


    The youngdy was Summer.


    She stood there with a determined re. Hope was dwindling, but she refused to give up. She would


    hold on to any slight chance, no matter how small.


    Vaste was a target for acquisition. With sufficient capital, it wasn¡¯t totally out of the question that they


    would strike.


    Thepany interested in taking over Vaste was one which can never be underestimated the Carter


    Group.


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Arnold wasn¡¯t going to back down anytime soon. The revtion of this news meant that he had


    everything under control.


    Rumors had been going around that Arnold decided to go against her because Summer wouldn¡¯t


    budge at his attempts to pursue her. Therefore, he was adamant not to waste any more time on her.


    Mark wanted Summer to return to Olsen Group, but she refused. His anger red, and he dered he


    would no longer help her. If she wanted to risk her career and life for Vaste, that was her choice, but he


    would not be involved.


    That morning, Summer texted Dexter, ¡®You promised me that you wouldn¡¯t target Vaste. I¡¯ll wait for you


    at the Emerald Vi:


    Dexter kept the promise and didn¡¯t harm Vaste, but she needed his help as he was close to Arnold.


    Arnold¡¯s actions were always unpredictable, making it difficult to know what he would do next. She was


    at her wit¡¯s end, so she came to find Dexter for help.


    But she didn¡¯t get a reply from him, so she stood at the beach the whole day.


    Even though Dexter wasn¡¯t avoiding her, he firmly stated that he didn¡¯t want anything to do with her.


    Any coincidence they had in the past wasn¡¯t by chance but by Summer¡¯s deliberate attempts to see


    him. Understanding his intentions, Summer wasn¡¯t confident she could meet him today.


    Furthermore, she had chosen to meet him at this vi.

 Chapter 454

    Chapter 454


    Chapter 454 A Plea for Help


    The summer rain beat down on Summer¡¯s umbre as she waited, the wind whipping her hair into her


    face. She was starting to lose hope that Dexter would show up. But after a while. she saw the


    headlights of a caring down the street.


    Summer couldn¡¯t believe her eyes. She thought she was dreaming.


    The car te indicated that it was Dexter¡¯s car. The door opened, and a man stepped out, carrying a


    ck umbre. He was tall and handsome, with a confident and dignified air. He saw thedy looking


    at him in disbelief.


    Summer¡¯s eyes lit up with a glint of triumph. She threw her umbre aside and ran towards him,


    hugging him tightly. ¡°I knew you woulde,¡± she whimpered.


    Her confidence made his forehead crease.


    Dexter slowly removed her hands from his waist and gently pushed her away, holding the umbre


    over her head. ¡°Summer, I can¡¯t help you with Vaste¡¯s problems,¡± he said calmly. ¡°I don¡¯t have any


    responsibility to help them, and even though I¡¯m close to Arnold, I have not


    in his decision to acquire Vaste. Do you understand?¡±


    say


    After all, they had a long history of conflict, and their feelings for each other were far from friendly.


    Dexter was clear and direct with Summer, so there would be no room for misinterpretation.


    Dexter had no intention of meeting Summer today, but he still felt bad for her. He knew that she was in


    a difficult situation, and he regretted being so harsh to her in the past.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Summer said. ¡°But you once told me that you respectedpanies with a long history


    in the field. If Vaste disappears, it will be a blow to the entire traditional media industry. The industry is


    already declining, and we need all the help we can get. Can¡¯t you just help us out this one time as a


    way to show your appreciation for the traditional media?¡±


    Dexter was torn about the situation.


    Summer was a force to be reckoned with when she was determined. Nothing could stand in her way.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Her hair was stered to her face, and her clothes were soaked. Tears and raindrops mingled on her


    cheeks, and he couldn¡¯t tell which were which.


    Dexter was unmoved by her request. ¡°The effort that went into acquiring Vaste cannot be ignored. Even


    if I could persuade Arnold, who wouldpensate him for his losses?¡±


    Summer suddenly grabbed Dexter¡¯s hand and pleaded, ¡®I¡¯ll have Vaste take responsibility for all the lost


    efforts. As long as the Carter Group gives us a chance to survive, Vaste is willing topromise for the


    benefit of the Carter Group in the future.¡±


    Since they werepetitors, Arnold might not even consider these conditions.


    Dexter tried to pull his hand away but was surprised by how cold her hands were.


    He then realized that she must have been standing in the rain all day.


    He hade all this way to meet her, so he couldn¡¯t just push her away, especially since she was sick.


    He left his hands on hers. ¡°Let¡¯s go inside and talk,¡± he insisted.


    Emerald Vi was a unique, rustic-style vi located on the seafront. It had been auctioned for a


    hundred and twenty million, but the deal fell through for unknown reasons.


    Thest time Dexter was here, he was with Josie.


    The peach tree in the garden had grown tall and strong, its leaves a lush green.


    Summer¡¯s hands shook as she pushed open the door to the vi. She hadn¡¯t been here in four years,


    but everything looked the same. The furniture, the decorations, and even the smell in the air were


    familiar.


    Summer¡¯s eyes filled with tears. She never thought she would be back in this vi again.


    Suddenly, her vision went ck, and her head spun. She copsed to the ground,


    unconscious.


    ¡°Summer!¡± the man shouted.


    She had a high fever and copsed from the stress that had built up over time.


    When Summer finally opened her eyes, she noticed that there was a cooling patch on her forehead, a


    warm cup of water within reach, and a few tablets sitting on the bedside table

 Chapter 455

    Chapter 455


    Chapter 455 Fever


    Summery on the bed, trying to process what had happened. She had been so focused on saving


    Vaste that she hadn¡¯t even considered her health. But when Dexter returned from the balcony, she


    sprang up from the bed. ¡°Dex, have you decided?¡± she asked frantically.


    Dexter was taken aback by her actions. He chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re a stubborn one.¡±


    She cared more about Vaste¡¯s survival than her own health.


    Dexter noticed the simrities between Summer and Liana. They looked alike, were both determined


    and never gave up on their goals.


    Dexter respected her for her tenacity.


    He passed her a cup of water and said, ¡°First, I never agreed to consider your request.¡±


    ¡°Furthermore, you were the one who kept prying on me. Now it¡¯s my turn to ask you some questions.¡±


    Dexter ced his phone on the side and stared at her gravely. His hands were in his pockets, and his


    stance was intimidating.


    ¡°First, you want the Carter Group to give up on acquiring Vaste. But what happens when Vaste is swept


    up in the fiercepetition in the industry? Vaste wasn¡¯t in a good state before, so how would you


    ovee this?¡±


    Summer¡¯s mouth gaped open in surprise, her eyes wide as she prepared to respond.


    ¡°Secondly, even if the Carter Group doesn¡¯t acquire Vaste, otherpanies in the industry are still


    eager to take advantage of Vaste¡¯s vulnerability. How will yourpany ovee this?¡±


    The two questions exposed the reality that Vaste was in a vulnerable position in the industry.


    Either way, they had big obstacles awaiting them.


    Summer¡¯s words caught in her throat. She mulled over his questions, but she couldn¡¯t find a


    satisfactory answer to his questions.


    ¡°If yourpany can¡¯te up with a proper n to ovee the problem, I won¡¯t help you, Dexter


    said indifferently as he walked away.


    ¡°Dex!¡± Summer called after him.


    Dexter stopped walking, as Summer had hoped.


    Summer turned around and faced him again. She took a deep breath, and her eyes became


    determined. ¡°I haven¡¯t thought of a way to ovee the problem yet, but Vaste has great potential in


    the industry. If Vaste survives, the leaders will keep the research team, even if we eventually enter the


    emerce business.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes lit up with hope. ¡°Their visions are clear and unwavering, and I believe in all


    of us.¡±


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Dexter had been in the industry for a long time and had seen it all. He had dealt with ruthless people


    and unreasonable matters, so the word ¡°vision¡± was something he had rarely heard.


    She continued to persuade him, ¡°You agree with this solution, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Dexter chuckled. ¡°You¡¯ve only recently joined Vaste, so why are you so eager to save it? Seeing how


    he treats you, Arnold wouldn¡¯t be too harsh on you.¡±


    ¡°I made it clear to him before I returned that we can¡¯t be together, so I doubt he¡¯ll show mercy now. As


    for Vaste, my father wouldn¡¯t let me stay, so I¡¯m not backing down.¡±


    After pondering for a while, Dexter muttered, I¡¯ll help you but with one condition.¡±


    ¡°Got it. What¡¯s your condition?¡±


    ¡°Let the Russell Group be a shareholder of Vaste. Dexter saw Vaste¡¯s potential in the industry,


    and it was beneficial for him to do so.


    Summer froze at his request. Dexter was clearly taking advantage of their vulnerable state. He said it


    with such ease, revealing his true intentions. Even if he did not say these words exactly, he was


    basically giving her an ultimatum, ¡°You can join forces with me and lead it to new heights, or you can


    watch it be taken over by apetitor. The choice is yours.

 Chapter 456

    Chapter 456


    Chapter 456 Office Housekeeper


    She had no choice but to make a decision


    The business can be cutthroat and unrelenting


    ¡°Okay,¡± Summer answered, forcing a smile.


    Dexter was actually touched by Summer¡¯s efforts to save Vaste. Although it might have seemed like he


    was taking advantage of the situation, he had offered his help out of sincerity.


    As silence filled the air, Summer¡¯s gaze fell on his wet shirt. ¡°Do you want to remove your shirt so I can


    help you blow dry it? You¡¯ll catch a cold if you keep it on like this.¡±


    Dexter stared at her in confusion. His phone buzzed, and he saw that it was Josie calling.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    With a faltering smile, Summer then said, ¡°You should get going.¡±


    The rain was still pouring down outside.


    Dexter left without replying to her. Before he went, he instructed her, ¡°You can contact Larry about


    Vaste¡¯s matters.¡±


    The only reason he stayed to discuss these matters was because she never brought up


    past.


    It was a pleasant dream for her, but it was something he wanted to forget.


    the


    Summer stood at the room entrance, listening to the door close behind him. The sound of his car


    engine revving faded into the distance, eventually drowned out by the rain.


    Her heart was no longer pounding as hard as before.


    She then went into the closet.


    She was surprised to see the clothes hanging inside. The closet had been cleaned recently, and the


    clothes were fresh and dust-free.


    The man¡¯s suits and shirts were hung next to the woman¡¯s t-shirts and dresses as if they were a family.


    Summer¡¯s breath caught in her throat. The clothes were all Josie¡¯s size. She¡¯s been here before¡­


    She felt like she was sinking like an anchor, her heart drowning in her sorrows. She fell to her knees,


    her eyes turning red as sadness washed over her like a wave of despair. Once again, it¡¯s


    Josie!


    The next day.


    Dexter entered Arnold¡¯s luxurious office on the top floor of the Carter Group building. Ady was sitting


    at his desk, reading a book.


    The book was open on the table. Thedy sat upright, her posture perfect as she read each line


    carefully. She didn¡¯t notice Dexter¡¯s presence at all.


    Despite her immacte and reserved appearance, her unique charisma drew people in like a


    ma.


    Dexter looked away from her and knocked on the door.


    She lifted her head and shifted her gaze towards the door. Her mouth gaped slightly when she saw the


    charismatic man. After a short moment, she stood up and asked with casual politeness, ¡°May I ask who


    you are?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer.


    She quickly exined, ¡°Mr. Carter is out for an appointment. It¡¯ll most likely take some time before he


    returns. He asked me to wait for him here¡­¡±


    He was intrigued to see that Arnold had let a woman into the office filled with highly confidential


    documents. She must not be an ordinary woman.


    Dexter immediately asked, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Thedy froze, her face pale. ¡°I¡¯m Mr. Carter¡¯s newly appointed housekeeper,¡± she mumbled.


    ¡°Housekeeper?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was deep and resonating.


    His appearance was almost God-like, with a charisma out of this world. It was like being in the


    presence of a mist on a mountain, enveloping and intoxicating.


    The man¡¯s square, chiseled jawlines were a testament to his strength and determination. If a man with


    this charisma could breeze through Arnold¡¯s office without any trouble, his identity must be


    extraordinary.


    Thedy wouldn¡¯t dare to look at him. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m his office housekeeper,¡± she said, her voice barely


    above a whisper.


    Dexter caught on immediately and reached out to pick up her book. It was a thick economics textbook


    filled withplex jargon that would be difficult for ayperson to understand.


    The air in the office thickened like a weight pressing down on her chest. ¡°What would you like to drink?


    I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    Office Housekeeper


    Thedy rose from her chair with a graceful poise, her expression calm and unperturbed She clutched


    her book in her hands as her skirt swayed with her every step


    She had a familiar face, but he couldn¡¯t quite ce her. ¡°Warm water will do,¡± he said, slightly hesitant.


    Thedy set a steaming cup of warm water down on the table in front of him, her eyes fixed on his


    face. ¡°I still haven¡¯t gotten your name,¡± she prompted.


    ¡°My surname is RussellTM


    ¡°Mr. Russell

 Chapter 457

    Chapter 457


    Chapter 457 Heather Riley


    Dexter sat in the waiting area, his eyes scanning the table. There was a stack of files piled high, each


    onebeled with a different name. He reached out and grabbed one of the files, but a woman¡¯s voice


    stopped him before he could open it. ¡°This¡­¡±


    Dexter interjected right away, ¡°Your name.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t asking-it was a demand.


    ¡°Myst name is Riley. Heather Riley.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t pay any attention to her. He opened the file and scanned it quickly, trying to remember the


    details.


    Heather had never encountered such a problem before, but she felt a sense of duty to protect his


    privacy as he had let her use his office.


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, I will not allow you to review these confidential.


    documents. Regardless of your identity, you do not have the right to do so.¡±


    She spoke with conviction, but her eyes were like shards of eyes.


    Dexter closed the file and looked at her with an arched eyebrow. ¡°Where¡¯s Arnold?¡±


    Heather¡¯s inner rms summoned Arnold back on time. Arnold strode through the door, nked by his


    entourage. He scanned the room until his eyesnded on Heather, standing with her back to him. In


    front of her was another figure whose silhouette was obscured by


    the shadows.


    It was a unique figure in Wavery, unmistakable for anyone other than Dexter.


    Arnold dismissed his subordinates and pulled Heather back by holding her hands. ¡°Don¡¯t scare her,


    Dex. She¡¯s a bit of a scaredy-cat, Arnold scoffed.


    Dexter smiled wryly. ¡°It seems like I have to congratte you,¡± he said.


    ¡°She¡¯s just an office housekeeper, but I keep her around because she¡¯s a good helper. Her name is


    Heather Riley.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve already introduced ourselves.¡±


    Heather leaned in closer to Arnold, and her brow furrowed in annoyance. ¡°I was the only one who


    introduced myself,¡± she whispered.


    Arnold chuckled, patted her back, and whispered something in her ear. She nodded and left.


    Heather¡¯s eyes lingered on Dexter as she closed the doors behind her. They were grave and solemn


    as if she was sizing him up.


    Arnold was usually gentle and calm, but he was cautious of Dexter.


    Every detail about Vaste¡¯s operations was ced before Dexter, including financial records, personnel


    files, and strategic ns.


    Arnold chuckled as he rubbed his temples, his back to the sun. ¡°Dex, we rarely get to meet, and now


    that you¡¯re here, you have a scheme against me.¡±


    Dexter was blunt about his reason foring.


    He wanted Arnold to abandon his ns to acquire Vaste.


    Arnold grinned knowingly, his eyes glinting with amusement. ¡°Why? The Russell Group and Vaste are


    not exactly the best of friends, are they?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were unwavering. ¡°Someone came to me for help, and I decided to lend her a hand.¡±


    ¡°I thought you were over her after you found a new girl for yourself. Does Josie know about this?¡±


    Any woman would be infuriated if her husband put in so much effort to save another


    woman.


    Dexter twirled a ballpoint pen and, with a low voice, demanded, ¡°You only have to tell me if it is


    possible.¡±


    Arnold replied with a hint of a smile, his eyes sparkling with menace. There must be a condition for me


    to let go of something I¡¯ve poured my heart into.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking for this without giving something in return. I¡¯ll share thirty percent of the profits from the


    project Wyatt handled with the Carter Group.¡±


    The profits from Wyatt¡¯s project were guaranteed to berge, which was significantpensation.


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Arnold feigned indifference as he smiled, his lips curling into a smirk. ¡°Vaste was never something I had


    to acquire. If you want it. I¡¯ll give it to you.

 Chapter 458

    Chapter 458


    Chapter 458 Have It Covered


    ¡°You had your eyes on that project. Everyone else thought you crashed the stock market to target Josie


    and me, but your real target was Xanthe and Wyatt.¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Their eyes met, and Dexter¡¯s smirk widened. He didn¡¯t say anything in response to Arnold¡¯s ims, but


    his eyes glinted with malice.


    ¡°You¡¯re sharing the profits from a project you don¡¯t even care about?¡± Arnold asked incredulously.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid you couldn¡¯t handle anything more.¡±


    With one final word to share with Arnold, Dextermented, ¡°Stop being so unserious in your


    rtionships.¡± After a short pause, he continued, ¡°Try to win their hearts. The Olsen girl might not have


    been the one for you, and the new one you¡¯re caring for doesn¡¯t look easy.


    He was referring to Heather.


    Dexter¡¯s words suggested that he had no interest in Summer.


    Arnold¡¯s smile faltered. He was a shrewd judge of character, and his eyes could see right through


    Dexter¡¯s intentions.


    ¡°I have it covered,¡± Arnold answered dryly.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were narrowed with exasperation as he walked out of the office, his lips pressed into a


    thin line.


    Heather leaned against the wall outside Arnold¡¯s office. As soon as she saw him, she smiled and said,


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter nodded in greeting, his expression unreadable.


    A pale hand blocked Dexter¡¯s path as he entered the elevator. ¡°Mr. Russell, you left something behind,¡±


    the woman said, gasping for breath. ¡°Mr. Carter asked me to give it to you.¡±


    It was a portfolio.


    Dexter took it from the woman and said, ¡°Alright, in an icy voice.


    Dexter had ordered Moses to send the portfolio to Vaste¡¯s office. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you headed to the


    Russell Group or Mason Garden next?¡± Moses asked.


    Dexter answered with a single word, ¡°Home¡±


    Moses immediately understood what he meant.


    Moses drove towards Vaste¡¯s office, which was in the same direction as Mason Garden. The office was


    quite far away.


    Moses stopped the car in front of Vaste¡¯s office building. He got out of the car and hurried inside while


    Dexter stayed in the car.


    Thepany had taken a hard fall from the business crisis, and few employees remained.


    Thepany had been struggling, and as soon as it hit rock bottom, people started leaving. It was a


    harsh reality.


    Moses sighed, his heart heavy, as he went to find Summer.


    As Moses passed by the finance department, he was stopped in his tracks by themotion unfolding


    before him.


    Summer identally bumped into a colleague, dropping everything she was carrying.


    She apologized profusely and bent down to pick up the scattered papers. I¡¯m really sorry.¡± she


    apologized to the female employee.


    Suddenly, the employee pushed Summer with such force that she fell backward,nding hard on the


    ground.


    Summer looked up at the person who had pushed her, but she was met with a barrage of insults. ¡°It¡¯s


    all your fault that we¡¯re in this mess!¡± she shouted. ¡°Vaste was doing fine before you came along. But


    ever since you joined us, a series of unfortunate events have happened. You¡¯re bringing us bad luck!¡±


    There were many people around who saw what was happening. If not for the quick intervention of a


    few bystanders, Summer would have been pped in the face.


    Summer stood up in shock and disbelief. ¡°How can you me me for this?¡± she shrieked. ¡°Are you


    really that idiotic?¡±


    The pressure of losing their jobs was getting to everyone at Vaste, and some people wereshing out


    as a result. This employee harbored prejudice against Summer and directed her anger toward her..


    Summer understood that the woman was under a lot of pressure but was still struck dumb by her


    words. She felt like she had been attacked for no reason.


    ¡°You stole someone else¡¯s project when you joined, and you think you¡¯re entitled to it. I am


    certain you slept with the executive tond the project. You¡¯re disgusting. You should be ashamed of


    yourself, the woman yelled.


    The finance worker¡¯s vulgar and demeaningnguage was a stark contrast to the professional setting.


    The people who were standing around watched the scene unfold with cold, hostile eyes.

 Chapter 459

    Chapter 459


    Chapter 459 What Is Trust?


    Summer felt a chill all over her body, her face as pale as a sheet. She rushed out of the crowd with


    trembling hands, but the person grabbed her hair, behaving like a shrew.


    Moses couldn¡¯t bring himself to turn a blind eye, so he went up and pulled Summer to his side. ¡°What


    are you guys doing?!¡±


    The crowd was intimidated by the robust Moses and his fierce re.


    Summer¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw Moses, but she instinctively covered her face. Moses told


    Summer, ¡°Ms. Olsen, Mr. Russell is downstairs.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes glistened with hope as if she had found a straw to clutch at.


    Moses brought her away from the crowd, disregarding the curious gazes of the others who discussed


    among themselves.


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    ¡°Hey, who¡¯s that man?¡±


    ¡°Why is he calling her Ms. Olsen?¡±


    Actually, Moses was nervous because Dexter didn¡¯t intend to meet Summer and only him to deliver


    some stuff. Moses bit the bullet and was prepared to be scolded by


    He sympathized with Summer¡¯s difficult situation-she repaid grievances with kind those despicable


    people bullied her.


    Dexter looked out the window and saw Summer striding toward his car, looking disheveled. Tears were


    streaming down her face while Moses followed behind her.


    She stood outside the car but didn¡¯t open the car door as she couldn¡¯t see the situation in the car. She


    stared at the car in a daze with a pitiful look.


    Moses quickly got into the driver¡¯s seat and reported the incident to Dexter in a fluster. Toward the end,


    he added, ¡°Mr. Russell, I just feel so sorry for Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Indeed, even Dexter had rarely seen Summer in such a helpless state. The only other time he had


    seen it was when sheined to him about the past.


    Summer was raised as aposeddy since she was young, and her calm manner always left a


    deep impression on people. It was a rare urrence to see her as emotional asst


    time.


    Dexter didn¡¯t answer but opened the car door slightly. When Summer saw his action, she immediately


    understood his intention. So, she slowly opened the door and got into the car.


    Thereafter, Moses drove away steadily. No one spoke in the car except the sound of Summer sobbing.


    Dexter passed a tissue paper to her without saying anything. Summer received it and wiped away her


    tears.


    Momentster, Summer gripped the tissue paper in her hand and asked in a loss, ¡°Dex, what is trust?


    How can some people be that malicious?¡±


    Dexter paused briefly before cing the folder that Moses hadn¡¯t had a chance to pass to Summer in


    front of her and said, ¡°This is trust.¡±¡°


    Summer looked at Dexter in confusion and opened the folder. A stack of documents fell out of it. She


    randomly picked up one of them and saw the title of the document, Vaste Acquisition n, with a red


    check mark beside it.


    The thick pile of documents was all rted to the acquisition n. Arnold was meticulous and


    determined to win the acquisition n. Yet, he willingly handed over these documents to Dexter.


    Dexter had promised Summer that regardless of her present and past identity or any other concerns,


    he would fulfill his words. This was trust.


    Summer couldn¡¯t believe that he actually did it. She stared fixedly at the man, thinking he had truly lived


    up to being the person she adored. He always used his actions to answer the doubts in her heart.


    Summer grasped the document so hard that the edge of the paper cut her finger, but she didn¡¯t mind at


    all. Thank you.¡± She uttered solemnly.

 Chapter 460

    Chapter 460


    Chapter 460 Ungrateful Woman


    Moses was sensible and knew they must not bring Summer back to Mason Garden. As such, there


    was only one ce they could head to-Emerald Vi.


    Summer was in a disheveled state and didn¡¯t have any belongings with her. Dexter was a clean freak


    and was disturbed to see her state. ¡°Have you been staying at Vaste the past few days?¡±


    ¡°Mm-hmm. I fell out with my father, and the house I bought is still under renovation.¡±


    Dexter passed Emerald Vi¡¯s key to her and said, ¡°You may stay here temporarily before the Russell


    Group sessfully acquires Vaste.¡±


    Dexter had some work matters to discuss with Summer, and there was no better ce to go apart from


    Emerald Vi.


    Summer held the key carefully and was overjoyed.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    The vi had clean clothes, so Summer took a shower and changed. When she came out, Dexter


    showed her the lengthy agreements rted to Vaste and the Russell Group on hisptop.


    Summer was experienced in this area, so she could easily understand the agreement¡¯s content. The


    terms and conditions stated were almost unreasonable. Regretting asking Dexter for help, Summer sat


    on the floor and gazed at the man pitifully, ¡°Please have


    mercy¡­


    It would have been better to let Arnold acquire thepany!


    Dexter was amused by her pitiful yetical look. ¡°You asked for it.¡±


    Nheless, Summer knew there was no other way at this point. She used all her knowledge and tried


    her best to negotiate to minimize the harm to Vaste. Finally, she added, ¡°Vaste has been through a lot.¡±


    Dexter stood in the courtyard and looked at the nts in the yard. The sun shone on his face.


    ¡°Been through a lot? What does that truly mean? Take Arnold as an example, his father was


    imprisoned, and he survived among all sorts of greedy and malicious people. He even went against the


    market several times for your sake. No outsiders could understand him, yet he gritted his teeth and


    developed the Carter Group to this day. The hardships he went through were rewarded.¡±


    Summer remained silent momentarily. ¡°He¡¯s a capable person.¡±


    ¡°Vaste can achieve great things too.¡± Dexter took up a watering pot and casually watered some nts.


    ¡°If Vaste manages to pull through this hurdle, it¡¯ll be the greatest testament of all time; if it fails to, it¡¯ll


    copse forever.¡±


    Summer answered solemnly, ¡°I want to win.¡±


    Dexter gave her a profound nce and closed hisptop. Moses kept theptop away and whispered


    in Dexter¡¯s ear, ¡°Mrs. Russell called me just now.¡±


    Summer couldn¡¯t hear Moses clearly. She stared at theptop in a daze and suddenly lost her senses.


    She casually asked, ¡°Dex, how have you and Josie been recently?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze instantly turned hostile, making Summer flinch. She was always cautious on the topic of


    Josie. However, she couldn¡¯t suppress her curiosity. ¡°I¡¯m just curious¡­ You set her birthday as your


    laptop password. How could you fall in love with someone else?¡±


    Summer tried to log in to Dexter¡¯sptop one day, and she instinctively keyed in Josie¡¯s birthday. To her


    surprise, she guessed it right.


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened as he stood up. ¡°Summer Olsen.¡±


    Not only did Summer intrude on his private matter, but she also boldly asked the abrupt question.


    Regardless of her attitude, it was a great transgression.


    Summer was taken aback by Dexter¡¯s response. Trembling, she looked at him with red- rimmed eyes.


    I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    So, he really loves Josie. Not only that, he loves her so much that he won¡¯t allow others to mention her.


    ¡°Ungrateful woman. These were Dexter¡¯s final words before he left.

 Chapter 461

    Chapter 461


    Chapter 461 Only Those Involved Would Know


    After Dexter closed the door and left, there was a pin-drop silence in the house. Summer slumped to


    the ground and mumbled, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m an ungrateful woman. But no one in this world loves you more


    than I do.¡±


    On the other hand, Josie called Dexter several times, but the calls weren¡¯t answered, so she called


    Moses, Moses picked up the call and told Josie Dexter was in a meeting and would call backter.


    However, Moses was just Dexter¡¯s driver most of the time and rarely knew what Dexter was up to. So,


    his swift response made Josie suspicious.


    ¡°What are you thinking?¡± Alice stretched afterpleting a draft and saw Josie spacing out.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Josie snapped out of her daze and saw that Laura¡¯s office was empty. ¡°Is she absent on the


    first day of work?¡±


    ¡°Well, she¡¯s the boss.¡± Alice lowered her voice and continued enviously, ¡°I heard Laura¡¯s husband is the


    only son of the Olsen family. What a lucky woman. Josie recalled that Mark and the family didn¡¯t even


    show up at Laura¡¯s wedding and the barely noticeable scar on her hand. So, she wondered if Laura


    was truly happy.


    Only the person involved in the marriage would know the real situation.


    After leaving Emerald Vi, Dexter exhorted Moses, ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone know that Summer is staying


    there.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    Emerald Vi was situated near Mason Garden. Dexter wanted to spend time alone, so he decided to


    walk back. His subordinates were worried about him and slowly followed him in their cars, which soon


    caused traffic congestion.


    Nheless, none of the road users dared to approach them.


    Dexter was carried away by deep thoughts and sauntered down the street slowly. His figure looked


    attractive under the sunlight.


    No one dared to neglect Dexter, the president of the Russell Group. In normal situations, he wouldn¡¯t


    stroll along the street casually. Larry became worried and asked Moses to check on Dexter.


    Hearing the footsteps, Dexter didn¡¯t turn around but raised his hand, gesturing for Moses to stop


    approaching him.


    He sat down beside a newspaper stall and picked up a newspaper. The author of the article on that


    page happened to be Summer. She eloquently and professionally described the current market


    situation. She was naturally an artistic person. The remark at the end of the article seemed to be


    written out of her personal feelings. The development of the market in the next few decades very much


    depends on Mr. Russell¡¯s maneuvers.


    Dexter chuckled and waved for Larry toe over. He passed Larry the newspaper and said, ¡°Take a


    look at this.¡±


    After reading the article, Larrymented with a smile, ¡°Ms. Olsen is right.¡±


    Dexter replied nonchntly, ¡°A few decades? That¡¯s too far into the future to predict.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re thinking too far ahead. Everything will be fine.¡± Larry understood Dexter¡¯s meaning.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond but sat at the stall until dusk gradually descended.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Just then, the phone rang. Moses was relieved to see the iing caller ID and quickly passed the


    phone to Dexter.


    ¡°I learned a few new dishes from Mrs. Carroll. You should taste them!¡±


    The voice on the other end sounded cheerful and slightly muffled as if Josie was chewing something.


    Her voice brought a beam to Dexter¡¯s face. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be right back.


    When he arrived home, Josie had served the dishes and arranged the table. She sat at the table and


    propped her face with her hand while waiting for Dexter. She stood up immediately when she heard the


    sound of the door opening.


    ¡°You took so long.¡±


    Dexter nced at her and looked at the dishes on the table. ¡°Why did you suddenly want to learn


    cooking?¡±


    Dexter frowned slightly, seeing the appearance of the dishes that weren¡¯t great.


    Noticing his expression, Josie handed him the cutleries. ¡°Give it a try.¡±

 Chapter 462

    Chapter 462


    Chapter 462 I¡¯ll Never Betray You


    When Dexter was about to put the food into his mouth, Josie stopped him abruptly and wore a pitiful


    look. ¡°This is the only sessful dish I made. Please show mercy.¡±


    Dexter nodded and said to Moses, ¡°Get Anderson over.¡±


    Josie was frustrated. ¡°Hey, I may not be a great chef, but I won¡¯t poison you. Anderson is busy, so don¡¯t


    bother him.¡±


    Dexter smiled and paused briefly after tasting the food. ¡°How is it?¡± Josie asked nervously. She knew


    Dexter had tasted all kinds of delicacies, and there was no way she could surpass them, but she


    thought her cooking shouldn¡¯t be that bad.


    After chewing and swallowing the food, Dexter put down his cutleries and said seriously to Josie,


    ¡°Actually, Mrs. Carroll can cook at home. Please promise me you won¡¯t enter the kitchen anymore.¡± In


    other words, he wasmenting that the dish was nasty.


    Josie pushed Dexter sulkily and carefully tasted the dish with a frown. Then, she beamed from ear to


    ear. ¡°You liar, it¡¯s delicious!¡±


    Dexterughed as he managed to trick Josie. ¡°What have you been up to today?¡± He asked and drank


    some water.


    ¡°I


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    spent much time dealing with the great gift you sent.¡± Josie looked at Dexter and asked, ¡°Moses said


    you were in a meeting just now. Was it at the Russell Group?¡±


    Dexter paused briefly before nodding. ¡°Mm-hmm.¡±


    Then, he asked, ¡°Have you heard of Vaste?¡±


    Perplexed, Josie thought about it and nodded. ¡°I think so. What happened?¡±


    ¡°Thepany is in trouble. Summer is an employee there. A few days ago, she came to me for help.¡±


    Dexter honestly informed Josie about the matter.


    Josie was startled as she looked into Dexter¡¯s eyes. ¡°Did you help her?¡± She smiled.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried that I¡¯ll get angry?¡±


    Dexter answered, ¡°I hope you can understand.¡±


    As they continued gazing fixedly at each other, Josie uttered indifferently, ¡°So, you guys met?¡±


    I¡¯ll Never Betray You


    ¡°Mm-hmm. She waited in the rain and had a high fever.¡±


    Josie wasforted by Dexter¡¯s honesty. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll be jealous?¡±


    Dexter held her cold hand and fidgeted with her fingers. ¡°Mrs. Russell, I¡¯m already yours. There¡¯s


    nothing to be jealous of.¡±


    He pulled her into his arms and buried his head in her neck, smelling her unique scent. He sighed,


    ¡°Josie, I¡¯ll never betray you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she heard Dexter¡¯s words, which indicated his absolute submission


    toward her.


    Josie caressed his head. His hair was hard, and the posture seemed as if she was petting a puppy.


    With his honest confession, she wouldn¡¯t care about anything else. All she wanted was to stay by his


    side and understand him.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    A weekter¡­..


    A group of senior executives in their fifties waited in Vaste¡¯s conference room for a long time before the


    talented young man arrived after attending to other matters.


    Dexter was not strange to the board of directors, and they acknowledged the Russell Group as a


    powerful conglomerate. However, the person seated at the main seat was Larry, who had a


    businessman-like demeanor. After reciting the uses one after another, he said, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now.


    Please sign the documents if there are no objections.¡±


    Meanwhile, Dexter was sitting aside, closing his eyes to rest. asionally, he would open his eyes to


    look at the orchids in the flowerpot, but his expression seemed disinterested.


    Standing across from the conference table, Summer could clearly see Dexter¡¯s actions. She was


    hesitant and hadplicated feelings.


    Someone sighed as if they were mourning the downfall of Vaste. Thereafter, the rustling sound of pens


    signing on the documents emerged.

 Chapter 463

    Chapter 463


    Chapter 463 Mockery


    Just as Larry was about to bring the meeting to an end smugly, a voice chimed in and interrupted,


    ¡°Correct me if I¡¯m wrong, but isn¡¯t it someone else¡¯s duty to handle this matter on behalf of Mr. Russell?


    Wouldn¡¯t it be more appropriate for Mr. Russell to offer some insights?¡±


    A stunned silence fell over the room.


    Larry nced at Summer, frowning slightly.


    ¡°I have been givenplete authority over the Vaste case by Mr. Russell himself,¡± he stated


    confidently. ¡°If you have any concerns, please get in touch with me directly. Given his recent health


    issues, it¡¯s best not to burden Mr. Russell with additional stress.¡±


    Dexter did not even want to be here today. However, with few pressing matters on the agenda and


    Larry¡¯s persistent reminders, he begrudgingly showed up to see what was happening.


    Dexter¡¯s apathy amplified the Vastemunity¡¯s prejudiced opinions, increasing their resentment and


    dissatisfaction.


    ¡°How dare you! The Vaste has endured many trials and tribtions over the years. We¡¯ve seen it all,


    and we won¡¯t be vanquished.


    Their words reverberated with great determination.


    Suddenly, Dexter let out a derisiveughter that disyed his disdain.


    ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    Summer was at the forefront, but she struggled to speak due to her affiliation with Vanke.


    The man¡¯s silhouette remained nonchnt, seemingly not fully grasping the situation. ¡°Even those from


    a media background are concerned about superficialities during times of crisis. No wonder Vaste has


    ended up in its current state, Dexter said coldly.


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?!¡± the crowd roared.


    Isn¡¯t that the truth?


    Their furious outburst stemmed from the ufortable truth hitting too close to home. A wave of


    embarrassment washed over them.


    Beneath his detached demeanor, there was a subtle vulnerability. He coolly nced at Summer before


    exiting the room, with the entire Russell group closely following behind,


    Just as Larry was about to bring the meeting to an end smugly, a voice chimed in and interrupted,


    ¡°Correct me if I¡¯m wrong, but isn¡¯t it someone else¡¯s duty to handle this matter on behalf of Mr. Russell?


    Wouldn¡¯t it be more appropriate for Mr. Russell to offer some insights?¡±


    A stunned silence fell over the room.


    Larry nced at Summer, frowning slightly.


    ¡°I have been givenplete authority over the Vaste case by Mr. Russell himself,¡± he stated


    confidently. ¡°If you have any concerns, please get in touch with me directly. Given his recent health


    issues, it¡¯s best not to burden Mr. Russell with additional stress.


    Dexter did not even want to be here today. However, with few pressing matters on the agenda and


    Larry¡¯s persistent reminders, he begrudgingly showed up to see what was happening.


    Dexter¡¯s apathy amplified the Vastemunity¡¯s prejudiced opinions, increasing their resentment and


    dissatisfaction.


    ¡°How dare you! The Vaste has endured many trials and tribtions over the years. We¡¯ve seen it all,


    and we won¡¯t be vanquished.¡±


    Their words reverberated with great determination.


    Suddenly, Dexter let out a derisiveughter that disyed his disdain.


    ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    Summer was at the forefront, but she struggled to speak due to her affiliation with Vanke.


    The man¡¯s silhouette remained nonchnt, seemingly not fully grasping the situation. ¡°Even those from


    a media background are concerned about superficialities during times of crisis. No wonder Vaste has


    ended up in its current state, Dexter said coldly.


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?!¡± the crowd roared.


    Isn¡¯t that the truth?


    Their furious outburst stemmed from the ufortable truth hitting too close to home. A wave of


    embarrassment washed over them.


    Beneath his detached demeanor, there was a subtle vulnerability. He coolly nced at Summer before


    exiting the room, with the entire Russell group closely following behind,


    disying utmost reverence and deference.


    Summer stood frozen; her hands clenched tightly. It was only when everyone had departed that a


    sudden chill sent a shiver through her body.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­ It¡¯s chilly, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Seems like autumn is here sooner than expected.¡±


    The reflection in Dexter¡¯s eyes appeared colder than usual.


    Moses, gripping the steering wheel,ughed heartily. ¡°Mr. Russell, you are truly impressive. It felt like


    those Vaste folks were on the verge of jumping off a building just moments ago.¡±


    Those who emerged triumphant in a situation often had a way of presenting their arguments


    compellingly.


    Moses had known Dexter for years and increasingly recognized his formidable


    prowess.


    Larry looked agitated as he peered over Dexter and said, ¡°Please be careful.¡±


    He handed Dexter his phone and exined, ¡°Madam made several calls earlier. I noticed you were


    busy, so I didn¡¯t answer.¡±


    Dexter took the phone and was rather amused. It was unexpected that she had been reaching out to


    him more oftentely, and it was surprising that she even remembered to give him a call.


    A message from Josie was disyed on the notification bar.


    Baby Jo: I aming home to see Grandpa. Can you pick me up at Russell Mansion after dinner? J


    A subtle smile formed on his face as his fingers danced across the keyboard.

 Chapter 464

    Chapter 464


    Chapter 464 Meeting Wyatt again


    During theter years of his life, his grandfather spent most of his time sitting in a rocking chair and


    indulged in reading newspapers to pass the hours.


    Marilyn was in the yard watering the flowers. As Josie arrived, Marilyn¡¯s hand trembled slightly as she


    eximed, ¡°Josie!¡±


    ¡°Marilyn.¡±


    Startled by the sound, Grandpa quickly set aside the newspaper and walked out. ¡°Youngdy! Why


    didn¡¯t you tell me you wereing? I could have arranged for someone to pick you up. Did youe


    here all by yourself?¡±


    Josie¡¯s nose twitched slightly. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. The car could only be parked halfway up the mountain,


    so I had to walk the rest.¡±


    Grandpa¡¯s heart ached as he quickly took the gift from her hands and ushered her inside. Once Josie


    sat down, her priority was to examine her grandfather¡¯s medical records, checking if he had attended


    his follow-up appointments. After confirming everything was fine, she finally sighed in relief.


    ¡°Where on earth is Dexter?¡± Grandpa eximed.


    ¡°I¡¯ve left the Russell group, Grandpa,¡± Josie said, her nerves subdued. ¡°I now run my not far from our


    old home. I¡¯ll be able to visit you more often.¡±


    Grandpa seemingly nodded. He reached out and gently patted Josie¡¯s hand, a hint of tenderness in his


    eyes. ¡°Marrying into our family has brought you so much hardship. I apologize for that.¡± Grandpa had


    known about her hardship all too well.


    Adorning her wrist was a mesmerizing jade bangle, a delicate masterpiece gleaming with vibrant green


    hues. She never failed to wear the jade bangle her grandfather had given her, and today was no


    exception.


    Casually toying with the bangle, Josie turned solemn as she spoke, ¡°I am fine, Grandpa. 1 believe this


    is all worth it.¡±


    Grandpa smiled slightly and asked, ¡°Is your father awake?¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Josie was somewhat taken aback.


    ¡°Dexter told me.¡±


    She was surprised that Dexter cared.


    ¡°He¡¯s awake and undergoing rehabilitation, but it¡¯s been a slow journey, and walking is still a


    challenge,¡± Josie exined. ¡°Once he¡¯s in better shape, I¡¯ll arrange for my father toe and visit you.


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? Your father is the one who is ill, so it should be me visiting him


    instead. Give me the address, and don¡¯t worry about anything else,¡± Grandpa muttered quickly, with a


    hint of exasperation in his voice.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Josie, forget about these trivial matters. We are a family here, and family members don¡¯t discuss such


    matters,¡± Marilyn said gently. ¡°Besides, your Grandpa is bored at home every day.¡±


    ¡°Alright then,¡± Josie replied as she smiled sheepishly at Grandpa.


    After enjoying dinner at the Russell mansion, she spent a long time conversing with Grandpa before


    finally deciding to leave.


    He was reluctant to see her go, but she reassured him, saying. ¡°Dexter wille to pick me up. You


    can trust him.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Exiting the Russell mansion, they were taken aback to find several ck Bentleys parked by the gate.


    Marilyn and Grandpa exchanged surprised looks as they watched Yanis and the others leave the


    vehicles. Spotting Josie, they eximed. ¡°Josie?¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze focused on Wyatt, who seemed vapid, standing behind Yanis. At that moment, Wyatt


    deliberately avoided meeting her


    ¡°Yanis.


    ¡°You¡¯re leaving?¡±


    eyes.


    Despite her underlying fear of his presence, Josie remained calm. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a bitte for you to visit


    Grandpa. Isn¡¯t it?¡± she said sarcastically.


    ¡°Oh, I had an emergency, Wyatt replied, his gaze briefly lingering on Josie before turning away. ¡°Wyatt,


    how rude of you. How could you not greet your sister-inw when you see her? I heard that she yed


    a vital role in helping you through your recent crisis.¡±


    Finally, Wyatt lifted his head and greeted tersely, ¡°Hello, Josie.¡±

 Chapter 465

    Chapter 465


    Chapter 465 Mrs Hadey


    Josie nodded, a whirlwind of emotions raging within her, making it hard to put her feelings into words.


    She felt a sense of guilt towards Henry.


    ¡°Alright, no need to stand on ceremony around me. Come on in, and let¡¯s talk,¡± Henry¡¯s expression


    turned serious. Turning around, he murmured softly to Josie, ¡°Take care on your way.¡±


    Everyone entered the hall, where light and shadow danced in harmony. Josie turned and began


    descending the mountain, wondering why Yanis hade to the old mansion. Did hee looking for


    a favor from Grandpa?


    This neighborhood boasted upscale vis with well-lit streets. Though peaceful, it held no danger.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie slowly descended the mountain, and from this viewpoint, she could behold the breathtaking night


    view of the entire city.


    ¡°Is anyone there¡­?¡±


    Suddenly, a weak and hoarse voice came through. Josie¡¯s footsteps halted, thinking that she had


    misheard.


    ¡°Hello, here¡­ I¡¯m here¡­¡± It was the voice of a woman who seemed to have spotted Josie.


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Josie followed the voice, cautiously approaching.


    ¡°Here¡­¡±


    It was in a thicket of bushes, and indeed, a person was lying motionless on the ground. Josie hurried


    forward, brushing aside the branches and holding the woman¡¯s hand, ¡°Come, let me help you up. How


    did you end up here?¡±


    It was a middle-aged woman dressed in clothing resembling the robes of a devoted follower of a


    Western religious tradition. She had taken good care of herself, with almost no visible wrinkles on her


    face.


    ¡°I sprained my foot.¡± Josie pulled her out and helped her sit on the ground. Her hands were injured with


    minor cuts.


    Josie crouched down and inspected her injury, ¡°Wait here for a moment. My car is just below, and I


    have some ointment for superficial injury. I¡¯ll go get it.¡±


    ¡°Ah, alright. Thank you, Madam.¡±


    Josie swiftly fetched the ointment and came back, gently applying it to the woman¡¯s wounds. She


    overheard the woman confessing with a hint of embarrassment, ¡°I live by myself here. I tend to take


    nighttime strolls as a habit. Today, my hare brain led to a sprained foot. It could¡¯ve been a real disaster


    if it weren¡¯t for


    you.¡±


    Josie was surprised and looked at her, ¡°Oh? You live alone?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I enjoy the tranquility here for my religious practice.¡±


    ¡°No wonder you carry such a unique energy.¡± Josie smiled and inquired, ¡°Let me send you back then?


    You should inform your family so they can send someone to care for you.


    The woman briefly expressed her gratitude, ¡°My daughter will be visiting tomorrow.¡±


    Josie poured alcohol onto her palm, warming it up before gently applying it to the woman¡¯s ankle,


    applying gentle pressure. It had a noticeable effect.


    ¡°Not many young girls these days have the practical life skills and general knowledge you possess, she


    commented.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯m used to handling things independently, which has given me some experience,¡± Josie


    smiled and nced upwards.


    The streemp illuminated her face, allowing the woman to see her clearly. The woman furrowed her


    brow slightly, appearing puzzled. ¡°Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m familiar with all the neighboring households, but I haven¡¯t


    seen you before. Which family do youe from?¡±


    Josie paused for a moment. ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t belong to any family here.¡±


    The woman nodded understandingly, wanting to say something but refrained from asking.


    Josie supported her as they walked back. Fortunately, the church was nearby, and they reached it


    quickly.


    While waiting for her to change, Josie stood outside the sanctuary. Inside, there was a majestic cross


    radiating a serene aura. Josie was an atheist, wondering if people could truly find what they sought.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, how should I address you?¡± the woman came out dressed in regr clothes, looking gentle


    andposed.


    ¡°My name is Josie.¡±


    ¡°Josic, then you can call me Mrs. Hadey.¡± Mrs. Hadey handed her a blessed pouch. ¡°Hang it in your car


    for protection. It has been blessed by the priest. Thank you for being so helpful today.¡±


    Josie swiftly fetched the ointment and came back, gently applying it to the woman¡¯s wounds. She


    overheard the woman confessing with a hint of embarrassment, ¡°I live by myself here. I tend to take


    nighttime strolls as a habit. Today, my hare brain led to a sprained foot. It could¡¯ve been a real disaster


    if it weren¡¯t for you.¡±


    Josie was surprised and looked at her, ¡°Oh? You live alone?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I enjoy the tranquility here for my religious practice.¡±


    ¡°No wonder you carry such a unique energy,¡± Josie smiled and inquired, ¡°Let me send you back then?


    You should inform your family so they can send someone to care for you.¡±


    The woman briefly expressed her gratitude, ¡°My daughter will be visiting tomorrow.¡±


    Josie poured alcohol onto her palm, warming it up before gently applying it to the woman¡¯s ankle,


    applying gentle pressure. It had a noticeable effect.


    ¡°Not many young girls these days have the practical life skills and general knowledge you possess,¡±


    shemented.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯m used to handling things independently, which has given me some experience,¡± Josie


    smiled and nced upwards.


    The streemp illuminated her face, allowing the woman to see her clearly. The woman furrowed her


    brow slightly, appearing puzzled. ¡°Ma¡¯am, I¡¯m familiar with all the neighboring households, but I haven¡¯t


    seen you before. Which family do youe from?¡±


    Josie paused for a moment. ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t belong to any family here.¡±


    The woman nodded understandingly, wanting to say something but refrained from asking.


    Josie supported her as they walked back. Fortunately, the church was nearby, and they reached it


    quickly.


    While waiting for her to change, Josie stood outside the sanctuary. Inside, there was a majestic cross


    radiating a serene aura. Josie was an atheist, wondering if people could truly find what they sought.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, how should I address you?¡± the woman came out dressed in regr clothes, looking gentle


    andposed.


    ¡°My name is Josie.¡±


    ¡°Josie, then you can call me Mrs. Hadey.¡± Mrs. Hadey handed her a blessed pouch. ¡°Hang it in your car


    for protection. It has been blessed by the priest. Thank you for being so helpful today.¡±

 Chapter 466

    Chapter 466


    Chapter 466 Her Past


    This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org.


    Josie was caught off guard by her offer and politely declined, ¡°Oh no, that¡¯s not necessary.¡±


    ¡°Just ept it. It¡¯s not expensive but a small token of my gratitude.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t resist any longer and noticed that Mrs. Hadey exuded an exceptionally elegant and


    graceful demeanor. She genuinely liked Mrs. Hadey and was eager to learn more about her.


    Mrs. Hadey also liked Josie and gently caressed her cheek, saying, ¡°Remember to visit me next time,


    and if you ever have any wishes, you cane here and light a candle. It works wonders.¡±


    Josie chuckled, ¡°I don¡¯t have any particr requests.¡±


    Meanwhile, Dexter had a social event at Heaven On Earth that day. Calvin had prepared several cases


    of wine, and everyone present had indulged in it except for Dexter, who remained sober. He instructed


    Moses to arrange transportation for everyone.


    While Larry went to retrieve the car, Dexter leaned against the doorway, took out a cigarette from his


    case, lit it with a lighter, and in the dim light, his face stood out, drawing the attention of numerous


    women who were tempted to hit on him.


    Yet, no one dared to take action due to his intimidating presence. Not until a gentle woman¡¯s voice


    broke the silence, ¡°Hey, Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Through the smoke, Dexter caught sight of Heather, the woman he had previously seen in Arnold¡¯s


    office.


    She held a document and seemed somewhat cautious. ¡°What a coincidence. I didn¡¯t expect to run into


    you here.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved slightly. The alcohol had made him somewhat tipsy. ¡°What is it that you want?¡±


    His tone was cold, and Heather didn¡¯t want to linger. She approached and handed him the document.


    This is from Mr. Carter. He asked me to give it to you.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t rush to take it. He nced around and indeed spotted a blue Ferrari on the


    street corner.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t hee himself?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Carter¡­ Mr. Carter said you have a penchant for showing tenderness and care towards women.¡±


    Heather repeated, avoiding direct eye contact with Dexter. She could clearly sense


    that his current aura was even more unstable and untamed than when shest saw him.


    Dexter sneered and took the document. He untied the silk thread wrapped around it, pulled it out, and a


    few photos and pieces of paper fell out.


    The photos had a distinct vintage look, with visible signs of aging and fading. However, Dexter could


    still recognize Josie in them.


    It was from her university days, captured in one photo where she leaned against a male ssmate,


    wearing a bright smile. At the same time, the average-looking guy beside her gazed at her


    affectionately.


    Heather noticed a significant darkening in Dexter¡¯s expression, a growing anger evident in his eyes.


    She could tell he cared about this woman¡­ and felt a pang of jealousy¡­


    Dexter quicklyposed himself. He put out his cigarette, set the photos aside, and told Heather. Tell


    him to mind his own business.¡±


    Thetter shrank back, feeling intimidated by his reaction.


    Josie couldn¡¯t wait for Dexter toe and pick her up. Half an hour ago, he had sent a message


    saying he was dyed due to a social engagement.


    She didn¡¯t mind and drove back to Mason Garden, but somehow her stomach felt uneasy. Julie gave


    her some medicine, and shey down on the bed, eventually drifting off to sleep.


    When Dexter returned, he found a pale-faced woman.


    In her half-awake state, she felt his touch and caresses. She caught a whiff of the strong scent of


    alcohol and furrowed her brow. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Dexter remained patient. He gently rubbed her stomach and lower abdomen. ¡°Hmm? Feeling unwell?¡±


    She was sober but couldn¡¯t open her eyes due to the difort in her body. She turned over and said,


    ¡°Probably got food poisoning.¡±


    Dexter paid no heed to her protests. Josie was too weak to resist his advances and could only allow


    him to do as he pleased.


    He slowly removed her pajamas, and she felt the coolness and the touch of his warm touches. Her


    voice was hoarse, ¡°Dex, not tonight¡­ I¡¯m not feeling well, Dex¡­ Mmm¡­¡±

 Chapter 467

    Chapter 467


    Chapter 467 What is Love


    Dexter¡¯s kiss silenced her refusal, leaving her only able to make sobbing sounds. At that moment, she


    fully awakened. Josie felt his actions were utterly unreasonable. Unable to speak, she resorted to


    punching and kicking, but Dexter effortlessly subdued her.


    Josie felt incredibly ufortable and couldn¡¯t bear being treated in such a way. Tears welled up in her


    eyes as she eximed, ¡°Dex! What¡¯s gotten into you?¡±


    He remained silent.


    This alcohol-fueled encounter almost went out of control. Josie couldn¡¯t endure it any longer. She


    curled and cried out, ¡°I hate you!¡±


    up


    Her sobbing and pitiful voice sounded as if she were acting coquettishly.


    To Dexter¡¯s ears, this only drove her even more desperate and cranked up the sensuality of


    the situation.


    And so, the steamy episodested until dawn.


    Josie¡¯s voice grew hoarse, and her whole body trembled uncontrobly. Dexter held her in his arms


    and whispered, ¡°Jo, don¡¯t make me angry.


    Josie felt utterly confused. She had no idea what she had done to provoke him. Her nose was red from


    crying, and she said, ¡°You promised to pick me up, but you stood me up. Clearly, you¡¯ve gone too far!¡±


    Being bullied in such a manner made her appear adorable and innocent. Dexter¡¯s pent-up anger


    inexplicably dissipated. He patted her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath, turned away, and ignored him.


    Dexter continued, ¡°It¡¯s my fault.¡±


    Still, she remained silent. After being tormented in bed the whole night, she was covered in sweat but


    felt much better than before the sex.


    The man gave his hand and said, ¡°Let me help you to the bathroom, okay?¡±


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Blushing, Josie wrapped herself in her clothes and said, ¡°I don¡¯t need your help.


    Her gait seemed somewhatical, limping and hobbling, clearly indicating what she had just


    experienced.


    Dexter sat up in bed, his mood improving as he watched her, unable to contain his


    amusement.


    The realization that she had revealed her true self to another man ignited an uncontroble wave of


    possessiveness in Dexter. That man had likely once been a beacon of light in her heart.


    Dexter¡¯s smile gradually faded, and his expression became somber as he contemted something.


    At that very moment, a scream echoed from the bathroom.


    Dexter¡¯s face instantly changed, and he quickly rose to his feet, rushing inside.


    There, he found Josie, still unclothed, sprawled on the floor, unable to get up. She looked at Dexter


    with a mix of grievances and said, ¡°The floor is so slippery.¡±


    It was evident that she had applied an excessive amount of shower gel and was standing barefoot. It


    would be impossible if she hadn¡¯t slipped.


    Dexter crouched down, lifting her up and swiftly helping her clean up. In the process, he also got wet.


    Josie¡¯s body was sore, and as she noticed the man¡¯s expression darken, she intentionally sshed


    water on him, remarking, ¡°Why are you mad¡­¡±


    Dexter nced at her and retorted, ¡°Are you kidding me?¡±


    Instinctively. Josie wrapped her arms around his neck and yfully remarked, ¡°You¡¯re the big fool, and


    I¡¯m the little fool. Buy one big fool, get one little fool for free.¡±


    Josie was na?ve as if she were a child.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but turn his head to conceal his smile, then lifted her up and carried her out. Josie


    obediently draped herself over him as if a ko bear cub.


    Wrapped in a towel, Josiey on the bed; her delicate waistline was bruised from the fall.


    Dexter retrieved some medicine from the first aid kit and gently applied it to the blue-ck. Most of the


    time, he was the one taking care of her.


    It was always like this; he had to go through unnecessary trouble to show his love for her.


    Feeling the cooling sensation on her waist, Josie was blinded and carried away by his attentive care,


    and she blurted out, ¡°Hey, am I your favorite woman?¡±


    Her voice was husky, emitting an alluring mystique.


    In truth, this question was already approached with caution. Josie didn¡¯t dare to confirm whether she


    was Dexter¡¯s only one. She only dared to inquire if she held a special ce as his favorite.

 Chapter 468

    Chapter 468


    Chapter 468 Afraid of Her Getting Pregnant


    However, Dexter had always been adept at concealing his secrets. Despite his honesty with her, she


    couldn¡¯t be certain if he held affection for other women.


    Upon hearing this, Dexter grinned and casually tightened the ointment lid. He asked calmly. ¡°What


    exactly do you mean by ¡°liking¡±?¡±


    Josie pondered momentarily before blurting out, ¡°Liking¡¯ someone is when your heart races at the sight


    of your crush, and you want to give them the best of everything. Even before being in a rtionship,


    you¡¯ve lost count of how many times you¡¯ve fallen in love.¡±


    Unbeknownst to her, Dexter¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°You have quite an understanding.


    Josie was taken aback. It suddenly dawned on her that she hadn¡¯t used the word ¡°liking¡¯ in a long


    while.


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    Dexter had no intention of discussing it with her. Perhaps in his eyes, they couldn¡¯t broach such an


    innocent subject.


    Instead, it was Dexter¡¯s next move that provided Josie with the answer she was seeking. He pulled out


    a medicine bottle and poured two white pills into his palm, offering them to J ¡°Take these.¡±


    Josie was taken aback, staring at the pills in her hand. ¡°What are these?¡±


    Dexter remained silent.


    Josie had an epiphany. Dexter had always been cautious in their rtionship. Considering they hadn¡¯t


    used protection earlier, it made sense for him to offer her the pills.


    It dawned on Josie that this was a routine urrence, nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps she was


    even more reluctant to have children than Dexter. However, at that moment, she found herself frozen,


    gazing at Dexter with a perplexed expression. ¡°Not taking them once won¡¯t make me pregnant.¡±


    Dexter held his hand steady, silently insisting Josie take the pills.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie nodded and swallowed the pills without water, shing a mischievous smile. ¡°You¡¯re so scared of


    me getting pregnant with your kid, huh.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s hand holding the water ss froze in mid-air as he tried to decipher her thoughts from her


    expression. The words he wanted to say remained stuck in his throat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not that na?ve, alright. Even if I identally get pregnant, I won¡¯t use it against you. I


    still want to live my life freely,¡± Josie reassured him, lying in his embrace, seemingly unfazed.


    Did she mean that she felt trapped and confined by my side?


    Her implication stirred up frustration in Dexter. He had asked her to take the pills because he had been


    drinking and smoking a lottely. It wasn¡¯t the right time for a pregnancy. But she seemed to


    misunderstand his intentions and uttered words that wounded him.


    At that moment, hepletely disregarded the vulnerability he had glimpsed in her eyes just moments


    before. Yes, she appeared so carefree. How could she possibly care about the child they might have


    together?


    Dexter forcefully ced the water ss on the side table, stormed out of the room, and mmed the


    door behind him. Unbeknownst to him, Josie¡¯s face was already drenched in tears as the door closed.


    In the Mason Garden household, this night should have been rtively pleasant for the young couple,


    ording to the servants. However, when they awoke the next day, the atmosphere waspletely


    different from what they had expected.


    Dexter and Josie seemed to be giving each other the silent treatment.


    As the sun barely peeked over the horizon, Josie was already dressed to the nines in her sharp


    business attire. She informed resentfully before storming off, I¡¯m heading to work.¡±


    Julie stood behind Dexter,pletely dumbfounded, as she watched Josie¡¯s figure vanish. She was


    about to utter something but abruptly stopped when she caught a glimpse of the expression on the


    man¡¯s face.


    The reality was Josie was boiling with rage. She had kept her frustrations bottled up all night long.


    When she woke up in the morning, it became painfully apparent that the man had no intention of


    apologizing.


    Yeah, as if the mighty Dexter Russell would ever own up to his mistake and say sorry to anyone, right?


    But there was no denying that he had seriously messed up. He had totally exploited her love for him


    and pressured her into taking those pills without giving a d¡±mn about how she felt or if she was even


    willing to do it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not that na?ve, alright. Even if I identally get pregnant, I won¡¯t use it against you. I


    still want to live my life freely,¡± Josie reassured him, lying in his embrace, seemingly unfazed.


    Did she mean that she felt trapped and confined by my side?


    Her implication stirred up frustration in Dexter. He had asked her to take the pills because he had been


    drinking and smoking a lottely. It wasn¡¯t the right time for a pregnancy. But she seemed to


    misunderstand his intentions and uttered words that wounded him.


    At that moment, hepletely disregarded the vulnerability he had glimpsed in her eyes just moments


    before. Yes, she appeared so carefree. How could she possibly care about the child they might have


    together?


    Dexter forcefully ced the water ss on the side table, stormed out of the room, and mmed the


    door behind him. Unbeknownst to him, Josie¡¯s face was already drenched in tears as the door closed.


    In the Mason Garden household, this night should have been rtively pleasant for the young couple,


    ording to the servants. However, when they awoke the next day, the atmosphere waspletely


    different from what they had expected.


    Dexter and Josie seemed to be giving each other the silent treatment.


    As the sun barely peeked over the horizon, Josie was already dressed to the nines in her sharp


    business attire. She informed resentfully before storming off, ¡°I¡¯m heading to work.


    Julie stood behind Dexter,pletely dumbfounded, as she watched Josie¡¯s figure vanish. She was


    about to utter something but abruptly stopped when she caught a glimpse of the expression on the


    man¡¯s face.


    The reality was Josie was boiling with rage. She had kept her frustrations bottled up all night long.


    When she woke up in the morning, it became painfully apparent that the man had no intention of


    apologizing.


    Yeah, as if the mighty Dexter Russell would ever own up to his mistake and say sorry to anyone, right?


    But there was no denying that he had seriously messed up. He had totally exploited her love for him


    and pressured her into taking those pills without giving a d*mn about how she felt or if she was even


    willing to do it.

 Chapter 469

    Chapter 469


    Chapter 469 Laura¡¯s Disappearance


    Laura was still a no-show at the studio today. Josie had been trying to reach her to discuss some


    design details, but her calls went unanswered.


    Alice leaned in, curiosity evident on her face, ¡°Still no luck getting in touch with her?¡±


    Josie nodded, growing increasingly concerned. It had been since the opening day that shest saw


    Laura. While it wasn¡¯t mandatory for her as the boss to be present at the studio daily, Josie knew that


    Laura had always been dedicated to the studio¡¯s sess and business. It was highly unusual for her to


    disappear like this.


    Recalling the injury she had noticed on Laura¡¯s arm during theirst encounter, Josie felt unease. It had


    been days since she saw that injury, and she hadn¡¯t heard from Laura since then.


    ¡°Never mind, I¡¯ll go find her,¡± Josie said, feeling restless. She quickly packed up and left the studio.


    But as she reached the elevator, the doors opened slowly, revealing a familiar figure. Josie was taken


    aback, ¡°Zac¡­ Olsen?¡±


    Since Josie hadstid eyes on him, he appeared noticeably more worn-out today, evident from the


    stubble on his chin and his disheveled appearance.


    He walked past Josie, made a beeline for the studio, and searched the premises. Josie trailed behind


    him and inquired, ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°Is Laura here?¡± he asked with a stern tone.


    Josie chuckled and retorted, ¡°I was just about to ask you the same thing. Laura hasn¡¯t been here for


    days. Isn¡¯t she at home?¡±


    Zac¡¯s expression darkened, and the corners of his mouth drooped.


    Josie quickly grasped the situation and asked sharply, ¡°What did you do to her?¡±


    Since marrying Zac, Laura hadn¡¯t been happy, and it didn¡¯t take much imagination to figure out why.


    ¡°That day, I lost control and identally hurt her, Zac recounted calmly.


    Josie raised an eyebrow, suspecting that this ident might not have been entirely unintentional.


    ¡°Is this the first time you¡¯ve hurt her?¡±


    Zac avoided eye contact and turned his face away.


    Silence speaks volumes. Josie understood. Anger surged, and she pulled out her phone, muttering,


    ¡°Men are all bunch of idi ts!¡±


    Zac ran a hand through his hair and closed his eyes in frustration.


    The call refused to connect.


    +15 Bonus


    Josie scoffed and flung her phone aside, saying, ¡°You have all these powerful connections and


    surveince, so why haven¡¯t you put them to use, Mr. Olsen?¡±


    In fact, Zac had already checked the surveince.


    Laura left the Olsen Residence in a car and headed straight for Norsturham. The mountainous area


    was rough, with numerous blind spots in the surveince cameras. They searched along the route and


    discovered she had ventured up the mountain alone.


    Norsturham, located in Wavery, was an undeveloped and incredibly remote area.


    Josie furrowed her brow. She had heard stories about Laura¡¯s love for outdoor adventures. Whether it


    was skydiving, bungee jumping from mountaintops, or climbing in snowy regions¡­ she had a daring


    spirit that bordered on seeking death.


    Laura had even once recounted a bungee jumping incident where the rope unexpectedly snapped,


    causing her to plunge ten meters from the sky, sending a wave of terror through the staff who


    witnessed it.


    Fortunately, arge body of water was below, preventing a fatal oue. However, it was still enough


    to send shivers down one¡¯s spine.


    After that incident, Laura had promised her friends and family that she would avoid such extreme


    challenges, and she had indeed refrained from solo escapades for a long time.


    So why did she choose to venture alone to Norsturham now?


    The meteorological bureau predicted rain tonight,¡± Josie casually pointed out to Zac, who was fervently


    searching for the location.


    Zac visibly stiffened at the mention.


    Josie pressed on, Laura is your wife. Can you truly live with yourself if something were to happen to


    her?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her words struck a chord deep within Zac, hitting a vulnerable spot. It served as a wake-up call and a


    stark reminder.


    Zac¡¯s visit to the studio that day was solely a bid to cause trouble with her. It was also a cover to test


    his own emotional resilience. As a result, he exited Josie¡¯s office, seething with anger.


    Josie casually tossed the documents she had been holding onto the table.

 Chapter 470

    Chapter 470


    Chapter 470 Dreams of Youth


    One of the employees recognized Zac and inquired, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the young master of the Olsen family?


    Ms. Warren, do you know him?¡±


    ¡°Is he good-looking?¡± Josie asked, diverting the conversation with an offhand question.


    ¡°Not just good-looking, but also loaded. Unfortunately, he¡¯s taken.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing unfortunate about it. Being married to someone like him would be a disaster,¡± Josie


    responded, her annoyance and restlessness palpable.


    Later, heavy rain began to pour down over Wavery. The raindrops hammered against the dark sea


    incessantly.


    The news came from Zac that a helicopter had been dispatched for the search.


    In recent days, Dexter had been swamped, practically living at the Russell Mansion. He held marathon


    meetings while the employees burned the midnight oil to n. Josie had no clue about his current


    activities. Still, she felt something significant was unfolding at the Russell Mansion.


    While making the phone call, Larry handed Dexter the final confirmation list for his review.


    Dexter quickly nced at it while answering a personal call.


    Upon seeing the caller ID, his lips curled into a faint smile, and his gaze momentarily lifted, but his


    voice remained chilly. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    *¡­ The weather has changed, the voice on the other end hesitated before conveying those words.


    Dexter furrowed his brow and finally nced out the window, observing the heavy downpour outside.


    Inside the climate-controlled room, everything seemed unchanged in the past twenty-four hours. Dexter


    nodded in agreement, ¡°Hmm, make sure to bundle up and stay warm.¡±


    There was a momentary silence from the other end, clearly dissatisfied with this response.


    Struggling to convey their thoughts, they finally got straight to the point, ¡°Laura is in Norsturham, and


    she¡¯s gone missing for some time now. Zac has deployed a search team. Have you heard anything


    about it?¡±


    ¡°I have no idea.¡±


    Indeed, Dexter was clueless about this matter, no matter how widely it was being discussed.


    So he made an educated guess. Considering their argument, Josie wouldn¡¯t call him without reason


    today.


    ¡°Norsturham is extremely treacherous, and the rain is pouring relentlessly. Can you¡­¡±


    Knowing Josie¡¯s intentions, Dexter yed dumb, maintaining a patient expression as if urging her to


    continue.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    As it turned out, her mention of the changing weather was a precursor to this matter, and Dexter¡¯s


    smile faded.


    Silently waiting by his side, Larry noticed a tinge of frustration in Dexter¡¯s demeanor. His unusual


    emotion seemed unbefitting in this situation.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Josie couldn¡¯t bring herself to utter the words seeking his assistance. It felt too much like begging, and


    begging was beneath her.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll hang up then.¡± Josie finally relented.


    Dexter sighed, set down his pen, and uttered, ¡°I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    At thatst moment, his warm voice reached her ears, causing Josie to pause.


    Dexter ended the call, passed the documents to Larry, and instructed, ¡°Arrange for our team to support


    Zac in Norsturham.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing.¡±


    Not long after Larry departed, a staff member from the secretary¡¯s office appeared with a file folder. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, here¡¯s everything we¡¯ve dug up, just like you asked.¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips and gazed motionless at the brown file folder for a moment.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this man?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s Morgan Bastille. He had a brief fling with Josie back in their university days. Itsted only a year


    before he left for overseas studies and never returned.¡±


    Morgan, Dexter repeated the name on his tongue, sensing a faint familiarity but unable to identify it.


    He opened the file folder, finding moreprehensive information than what Arnold had provided,


    including Morgan¡¯s current upation.


    The man was a Wall Street big shot, holding a respectable position.


    ¡°Should we take any action against him, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter took back the documents, his expression growing icy. ¡°Forget it. Who hasn¡¯t had a few romantic


    flings in their younger days? No need to dwell on the past.¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    In the office, only the wallmp illuminated the room. Dexter lit a cigarette, his expression inscrutable.

 Chapter 471

    Chapter 471


    Chapter 471 He¡¯s Sick


    He knew Josie had a past, but his initially calm heart panicked when faced with it. He didn¡¯t expect it.


    Therefore, he understood better how sad she felt when faced with his past.


    Everything was only done when the sun had fully risen. Everyone was sent home to rest, and Dexter


    drove back to Mason Garden alone.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    The rain stopped, and the air that came after it was fresh.


    He felt dizzy and slightly unwell.


    It was too early. Everyone in Mason Garden had yet to wake up.


    The man went into the master bedroom to check on Josie first. She was sleeping soundly while holding


    her cell phone in her hands tightly. She must have stayed up all night because


    of Laura.


    He hadn¡¯t seen her in a few days. He lovingly swept her hair and took her cell phone away before


    tucking her in.


    He filled up the ss on the bedside table before silently shutting the door and leaving.


    Josie was a light sleeper. He didn¡¯t want to wake her, so he went to another bedroom, took off his coat,


    and quickly fell asleep.


    His dizziness felt slightly bizarre.


    Josie noticed something after waking up. Dexter¡¯s car keys were on the bedside table. Is he back?


    Perhaps it was his tenderness from yesterday night. When she rolled over, got out of bed, and walked


    barefooted, a warmth unexpectedly surged from her feet as she stepped on the


    rug.


    She stopped, turned back, and put on her slippers properly.


    She had a habit of walking barefooted, and Dexter chided her every time he saw it, even in front of the


    servants. He didn¡¯t care about her dignity at all. He was very unreasonable.


    Josie looked for him. She thought Dexter was in the study room, but it was empty.


    Isn¡¯t he around?


    Has he left?


    Josie didn¡¯t think about it further when she couldn¡¯t find him. It could even be said that she breathed a


    sigh of relief.


    She still held a grudge against what had happened that night.


    When she turned on her cell phone, there was news from Zach. He said that Summer had been found.


    She was unconscious and had a high fever after being drenched in the rain. She had been sent back to


    Olsen Residence.


    That day, Zach, who was also covered in mud, was brutally reprimanded by Mark. ¡°You have to know


    your limits. Don¡¯t risk other people¡¯s lives!¡±


    No one knew how Zach felt after running around for the whole night. He had all sorts of emotions, but


    he mostly found it absurd. The corners of his mouth twitched, and he revealed a vicious smile.


    Josie was relieved after finding out that Laura was alright. She wanted to visit Laura but thought of how


    she also represented Dexter, and she couldn¡¯t go.


    She sat and drew on the balcony.


    Mrs. Carroll was doing some cleaning today. She walked to the study room and suddenly realized the


    door of one of the bedrooms wasn¡¯t shut properly as she passed by. She opened the door, baffled, and


    saw Dexter lying on the bed, exhausted and sleeping.


    She was rmed, so she went over and said softly, ¡°Mr. Russell, why did you fall asleep here?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond. Mrs. Carroll subconsciously touched his forehead, and she was taken aback.


    ¡°Help!¡±


    In the end, many people crowded outside the room.


    Dexter woke up.


    He saw Anderson putting ointment on his hand in a daze, preparing to connect him to an IV.


    Anderson saw that Dexter was awake and red at him. ¡°How many days haven¡¯t you slept? Do you


    want to die?¡±


    The man¡¯s eyes lifted slightly. His gaze was still sharp even when he was ill.


    He shut his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be okay after sleeping.¡±


    Anderson retorted rudely, ¡°Your high fever was 102 degrees, and you say you¡¯re fine? You¡¯re really


    Superman.¡± As he spoke, he nimbly pushed a needle into Dexter¡¯s veins. It stung a little.


    Dexter was exhausted. He smiled bitterly and allowed Anderson to do as he wished.

 Chapter 472

    Chapter 472


    Chapter 472 An Ordinary Couple


    Behind the door stood Josie with her back against it. She stood in a daze with a ss of warm


    water.


    She suddenly felt slightly pained and had mixed emotions. She guessed Dexter went to a smaller room


    because he hadn¡¯t wanted to disturb her.


    But now, she couldn¡¯t go in.


    Mrs. Carroll was walking to the room with soup.


    Surprised, Josie said, ¡°Mrs. Carroll, let me do it.¡±


    It seemed like Mrs. Carroll had just noticed Josie¡¯s presence, and she couldn¡¯t help but smile


    awkwardly. ¡°Alright, Mrs. Russell. You can do it.¡±


    Josie took the warm soup, opened the door, and entered the room.


    The IV waspleted, and Dexter was taking the needle out of his hand. Just as he was turning on the


    lights, the contrast of his exquisite appearance made him look shrewd and imposing even when he was


    ill.


    The man¡¯s first reaction was to furrow his brows when he saw Josie.


    Perhaps he was befuddled from being sick and had forgotten that she was also at Mason Garden, or


    he didn¡¯t want to let her know. Maybe men in high positions like Dexter were too proud to show


    weakness.


    Or maybe he was afraid she would worry.


    When he thought about it, heughed at himself. He was feeling fear.


    Josie didn¡¯t know what he was thinking about. She put the warm soup down, and their gazes met. Her


    gaze was slightly alluring yet resentful.


    She used her hands to feel his forehead and check his temperature.


    Dexter pulled her hand down and held it. He tried to convince her. ¡°It¡¯s not warm anymore.¡±


    His voice was hoarse because he was ill. Josie suddenly felt countless emotions swirling around in her


    heart. She only asked, ¡°Why did you sleep here?¡±


    ¡°I saw that you were asleep when I returned. I was afraid that I would wake you.¡±


    At that moment, the two people in the room no longer had their guard up, nor were they


    suspicious or jealous of each other. They were like a real couple in the ordinary world who were


    interacting calmly. They were being authentic with each other.


    Dexter pulled her into his embrace. She sat in hisp, and he buried his face into her neck. He inhaled


    her familiar scent before he calmed down. It was as though he was home.


    He put her at ease. ¡°I¡¯m alright. It¡¯s just themon flu.¡±


    Josie stirred the soup to cool it. ¡°Mm. Anderson told me.¡±


    The man whose face was buried in her neck spoke dully. ¡°Are you still angry?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie took a spoonful and indicated for him to drink it. The man revealed a childlike smile and looked at


    her thoughtfully before he drank it. ¡°You¡¯re so considerate, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand trembled when she heard what he called her. She immediately looked away.


    ¡°I don¡¯t have the nerve to get angry at you, Mr. Russell. It¡¯s just children. It doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t


    want children.¡±


    Dexter grabbed her hand. His gaze was solemn, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that.¡±


    Josie feigned nonchnce. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I understand.¡±


    Dexter drank the soup when she fed it to him, one spoonful at a time, as though she were feeding a


    child, but it was heartwarming.


    After finishing the soup, he yed with her fingers and said nothing. He gradually grew sleepy.


    Josie changed the topic and talked about what had happenedst night. ¡°Thanks for helping to look for


    Laura. She¡¯s safe and back at Olsen Residence.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s too impulsive and has an intense temper,¡± Dextermented, ¡°it¡¯s too immature of her to harm


    herself because of other people.¡±


    Josie retorted, ¡°Perhaps she was too upset and had no other way, so she could only do that. Maybe


    she was using her pain to distract her.¡±


    Dexter was momentarily silent. He found her waist and caressed her thistle tattoo. She groaned softly


    when his fingers touched it lightly.


    ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    ¡°Not anymore.¡±


    Josie¡¯s pitch-ck eyes were deep. For a moment, Dexter, who could see through countless


    people, didn¡¯t know what she was thinking.


    At this time, Anderson, who thought Dexter must have finished his IV, opened the door. ¡°Dex¡­¡±

 Chapter 473

    Chapter 473


    Chapter 473 Homing Dinner


    He closed the door in a split second.


    Josie was astonished. Did Anderson misread our posture? She immediately pushed the man away


    from her and stood up. She said, ¡°Go¡­ go back and sleep in the master bedroom.¡±


    After that, she opened the door and ran away.


    Dexter smiled bitterly as he looked at Josie¡¯s figure. He said softly, ¡°She¡¯s like a child.¡±


    When he came out, Anderson pulled him to one side. ¡°What¡¯s going on? You¡¯re still ill and must restrain


    from doing certain things.¡±


    Dexter was annoyed and amused. ¡°You must be kidding.¡± He patted Anderson¡¯s shoulder. ¡°She¡¯s


    embarrassed by you opening the door. Let¡¯s not talk about it.¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Anderson rolled his eyes. ¡°I never thought you were living so happily now!¡±


    Old Mr. Russell went to look for Paul, and they met for the first time. Josie was astonished. Dexter


    happened to be sick and couldn¡¯t work, so the two headed to Paul¡¯s residence.


    Josie volunteered to drive him.


    Dexter sat in the passenger¡¯s seat and smiled in exasperation. ¡°I¡¯m a little worried.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a great driver. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Josie was confident.


    ¡°Really? Who got into an ident on the road thest time and then called me and asked for help?¡± He


    said slowly.


    Josie blushed. She desperately wanted to gag him.


    Dexter smiled as he watched her.


    As she was driving, he told her to go to the supermarket.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°To buy groceries.¡±


    Josie was confused.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t manage to eat your cooking previously. Now that everyone is gathered, I¡¯ll cook.¡±


    Josie was overwhelmed when she heard what he said. ¡°Wow. What an honor.¡±


    Dexter squeezed her hand as he chided her yfully. ¡°Don¡¯t be weird about it.¡±


    When they arrived, they happened to bump into a familiar figure that came down the stairs. Josie


    passed him by without noticing when a voice came from behind her. ¡°.. Sis.¡±


    Josie¡¯s figure stiffened, and Dexter turned around.


    He was surprised to see Justin. He wasn¡¯t as scrawny as before and looked much more energetic. At


    that moment, he was looking at Josie with aplicated expression.


    ¡°How did you know about this ce?¡± Josie asked coldly.


    Justin hung his head. ¡°My mom told me¡­¡± Then, he quickly added, ¡°But don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t mean to


    disturb you. It¡¯s just that he¡¯s my father too.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know how she felt about this younger brother she wasn¡¯t biologically rted to as she saw


    how remorseful he seemed.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re here,e in.¡±


    Dexter held many things in his hands, and Justin wanted to help. He greeted Dexter cautiously.


    ¡°Dexter¡­


    They had met in Heaven on Earth.


    Dexter didn¡¯t say anything except, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell was also having tea with Paul on the balcony. They were enjoying themselves.


    Paul¡¯s expression changed when he saw Justin behind Josie. He hobbled into his room with his


    walking stick. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    ¡°Dad¡­¡±


    ¡°Come!¡±


    Old Mr. Russell called Dexter over. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Dexter was amused. ¡°Why? Am I not allowed to be here? Are you the only one who¡¯s allowed to be


    here?¡±


    Old Mr. Russell had a disdainful expression and immediately said, ¡°You¡¯re finally getting your act


    together. This is how a son-inw should be.¡±


    Dexter enquired about Old Mr. Russell¡¯s health and said, ¡°As a good son-inw, I¡¯m going to cook. Stay


    back and try my cooking.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell looked at Josie in disbelief. ¡°Did you teach this brat to cook?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face flushed, and she pushed Dexter into the kitchen. Grandpa, I¡¯m going to help


    him.¡±


    The man who usually never stepped foot in the kitchen worked skillfully. Josie instructed him from the


    side, and their figures looked extraordinarily warm and sweet.


    This was what a loving couple looked like.

 Chapter 474

    Chapter 474


    Chapter 474 The Friendliest Woman


    No one knew what Paul had said to Justin. Thetter looked downcast when he came out of the room


    and dared not even look up.


    Josie saw it from the corner of her eyes and sighed. She asked the man beside her, ¡°Has Justin. been


    in Heaven on Earth all along?¡±


    Dexter took a spoon and put it to her lips. ¡°Try it.¡±


    She opened her mouth.


    ¡°Calvin doesn¡¯t make mistakes. Once he¡¯s given an order, Justin wouldn¡¯t be able to leave. Calvin will


    counsel him. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°It tastes just right.¡± Josie nodded before turning to leave the kitchen. She saw Justin walk to the door


    and was about to leave.


    ¡°Stay.¡± When she said it, Justin and Paul looked up in astonishment at the same time.


    She paused. ¡°It¡¯ste. Stay and have dinner with us.¡±


    ¡°Sis¡­¡±


    ¡°Jo¡­¡± Paul was slightly worried.


    Josie didn¡¯t answer. She said to Justin, ¡°Why are you standing there? Come and set the table.¡±


    Justin quickly smiled and answered her before going into the kitchen.


    It was a rare reunion for the family, and there was a warm atmosphere. Halfway through dinner, Justin


    proposed a toast. ¡°Sis, I was too much of a rascal in the past. It was my fault. I¡¯m sorry. I won¡¯t do it


    again in the future. I¡¯ll look after Dad together with you.¡±


    Everyone was silent. Josie was surprised when she heard him express regret, and she immediately


    teared up. She forced a smile. ¡°Have you seen the light?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Justin was apologetic.


    Josie lifted her ss and clinked it with Justin¡¯s. ¡°That¡¯s great.¡± She finished her drink.


    They had an enjoyable dinner. Dexter was still sick and couldn¡¯t drink alcohol but frequently took food


    for the two older men and Josie.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    After dinner, Josie took the initiative to do the dishes, and Justin followed her, saying he wanted to help.


    Dexter and the two older men sat in the living room, and he personally


    The Friendliest Woman


    made tea for them. He was sincere and tried his best, and the tea was delicious.


    Josie left her cell phone with Dexter. It suddenly vibrated, and he subconsciously nced at it. It was a


    message from someone saved as ¡®Mrs. Hadey.¡¯ Josie, my daughter came to see me today and found


    out you saved me, so she wants to thank you properly. When are you avable?¡¯


    Dexter furrowed his brows slightly. The name sounded familiar.


    He scrolled up in the chat. There was no other message. The number was saved a few days


    ago.


    After everything was done, Old Mr. Russell insisted on staying because he liked having apanion.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t do anything about it, so he could only leave with Josie.


    ¡°Mrs. Hadey? It was a coincidence.¡± In the car, Josie sat in the passenger¡¯s seat as she told him in


    detail what had happened that day. ¡°Do you know that she has an especially gentle demeanor? Mrs.


    Hadey is one of the friendliest women I¡¯ve met. Look, she gave me this good luck charm in the car. She


    said it¡¯s also for protection.¡±


    A good luck charm hung in the car.


    ¡°She said it¡¯s also to protect me, and I don¡¯t drive, so I gave It to you. I hope it¡¯ll always keep you safe,


    Dexter.¡± Josie said with a smile.


    His lips curved.


    She was still mumbling, ¡°I wonder how her daughter is like. She must be like her mom.¡±


    As she spoke, she replied to Mrs. Hadey¡¯s text to turn her down, saying that she was busy and that


    they didn¡¯t need to especially thank her.


    ¡°Russell Mansion. The church.¡± Dexter repeated the key phrases.


    ¡°Yes. Is something wrong?¡±


    Dexter held the steering wheel with both hands and couldn¡¯t think of anything strange. He shook his


    head lightly. ¡°No. You did a good job.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s


    go


    and see her the next time we return to Russell Mansion. She lives alone and seems lonely. Josie was


    kind and genuinely meant it.


    ¡°Alright.¡±

 Chapter 475

    Chapter 475


    Chapter 475 Domestic Violence


    When Josie opened the studio doors the following day, she saw Laura, who was there early. Laura was


    sitting under the sun, and her excellent figure was seen. She looked up when she heard a noise. ¡°Hey.


    You¡¯re early, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t smile. She approached Laura and carefully examined Laura¡¯s face. Laura had deliberately


    put on a thickyer of foundation, and her injuries couldn¡¯t be seen. She was in long sleeves and long


    pants, and everything was hidden.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me?¡± Laura smiled. The next moment, Josie pulled Laura¡¯s wrist and lifted her


    sleeves. Bruises and scars covered her delicate and fair arms.


    Laura¡¯s smile became slightly awkward. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Which were caused by you? And which were by him?¡± Josie finally asked, incensed.


    Laura was dumbstruck. She concealed the dejection in her eyes and turned. ¡°This ismon in a


    wealthy household. I received something I shouldn¡¯t have, so I naturally should pay the price.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand, and she raised her voice. ¡°He pursued you and married you extravagantly


    back then. Don¡¯t belittle yourself, Laura.¡±


    ¡°I begged him to.¡± Laura interrupted her, and Josie was startled. ¡°There was trouble at home, and I


    didn¡¯t have money. Mr. Carter and Mr. Russell helped me, and I wanted more just in case, so I called


    Summer and asked to borrow money from her, but she didn¡¯t lend me anything.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve been good friends for many years. I always looked out for her while she wasn¡¯t in the country,


    and thought she would help me no matter what. But I never imagined she wouldn¡¯t consider my


    feelings as much as you did then.¡±


    Josie was astonished when she heard it.


    She didn¡¯t think Summer was such a petty person.


    Laura took a deep breath. She seemed to have guessed what Josie was thinking. ¡°Summer is very


    selfish and only approaches people who benefit her. She disregarded me once I was of no use to her. I


    was abandoned.¡±


    ¡°I had no other way, and I met Calvin under those circumstances. He pursued me in the past, so I could


    only give in.¡±


    Laura smiled as she spoke. ¡°I can feel that he really likes me but looks down on me. After getting


    married, Zach explicitly and implicitly told me not to work. If I spoke to any other man, he would


    inexplicably give me the silent treatment. After that, it slowly escted into domestic violence¡±


    Josie was rmed just by listening. She frowned. She could guess that Laura wouldn¡¯t concede with


    her arrogant and stubborn behavior, so the problems between the two would only intensify.


    This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you staying with the Olsen family? Mark and Summer are there as well. Don¡¯t they care?¡±


    ¡°Mark turns a blind eye to his son while Summer and I aren¡¯t speaking. She won¡¯t help me. The whole


    family isn¡¯t pleased with this marriage.¡±


    ¡°What about the servants?¡±


    ¡°Zach has a secret room in the Olsen Residence. He will usually drag me in there to hit me. Even if the


    servants know, it¡¯s useless.¡±


    Josie felt weak. ¡°Can you get a divorce?¡±


    A thought had urred in her head. Laura can¡¯t continue in this marriage.


    Laura looked at Josie gratefully. ¡°Not for now. Don¡¯t worry. He has a mistress and doesn¡¯t return home


    often. It¡¯ll be alright if I¡¯m careful.¡±


    Josie was still worried and paced in the office. She still thought it was wrong and hesitated before


    texting Matthew. ¡®Matt, do you know any reliable psychologists in the hospital?¡®

 Chapter 476

    Chapter 476


    Chapter 476 Psychologist


    From living in such a situation, Laura¡¯s mental state was a mess. A psychologist needed to intervene.


    Matthew quickly replied. ¡®What¡¯s up? Is something wrong?¡®


    ¡®No, but my friend needs help.¡¯


    Matthew answered. ¡®I do know one. He¡¯s an internationally known psychologist who just returned to the


    country recently. Let me ask if he has avable slots.


    Josie thanked him, and Laura¡¯s voice rang behind her. ¡°What are you thinking about? You really don¡¯t


    have to worry about me. Look, I¡¯m standing here in one piece, right?¡±


    Josie turned and was distressed when she noticed Laura¡¯s expression. ¡°No matter what, you have to


    save yourself. If anything happens to you, I can¡¯t manage this studio alone.¡±


    Laura suddenly smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯re my money¨Cmaking source.¡± She walked to the office desk


    and took out a document. ¡°The leaders of the Northern Wavery project are meeting in Sky Pce


    today. We should send someone from our side to attend too. I should attend such functions, but as you


    know, I¡­¡±


    She still had injuries.


    Josie immediately took the document. ¡°Leave it to me. You rest well.¡±


    Sky Pce was a country club where they could eat and drink with everything avable. The people


    who came and went were extraordinarily wealthy.


    In the evening, Josie chose two employees to go with her. ¡°Jade. Angel. Come with me.¡±


    After Josie had packed up, she went to the garage and saw from afar two young people standing


    where she had told them to. They stood upright rigidly.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    When Josie approached and got into the car, their nervous expressions still hadn¡¯t rxed. Josie


    smiled and said, ¡°Why are you so nervous? I¡¯m not going to eat you up.


    ¡±


    It was the start of another season, and the sky turned dark earlier. Shortly after the vehicle drove away,


    last rays of sunlight on the building dimmed. The dim silhouette of the building looked grand and


    majestic.


    the


    The two neers in the backseat finally summoned up their courage. ¡°Ms. Warren, why did you


    choose us to apany you?¡±


    They were recent college graduates who had applied for the job because of Josie¡¯s reputation. They


    were still interns, and their daily tasks included doing odd jobs. They never thought Josie would think


    highly of them.


    Josie wasn¡¯t in a rush to answer. She lowered the window slightly, and cool air rushed in. It swept her


    lengthy, ck hair, revealing her fair neck. The streetlights lit up and flickered across her face as she


    drove past. After a while, she said, ¡°Why do you think so lowly of yourself? Speaking of it, it¡¯s also my


    first time being a boss. I¡¯m new too.¡±


    The two neers were nervous and didn¡¯t dare say anything in response.


    Josie was exasperated and nced in the rearview mirror. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so nervous. Calm


    down.¡±


    ??????


    Jade Tugman didn¡¯t quite understand, and her eyes lit up with desire. ¡°Ms. Warren, we¡¯ll work hard!¡±


    Josie answered, ¡°Don¡¯t call me Ms. Warren. It¡¯s awkward to hear. You can call me Ms. Jo like the rest


    of them. It sounds better.¡±


    Actually, she wasn¡¯t that much older than these interns. She was only one or two years older than


    them, at most. But under Dexter¡¯s training, she unexpectedly became mature.


    Angel Teneson, who hadn¡¯t dared to say anything, finally smiled. ¡°Alright, Ms. Jo.¡±


    ¡°Where are we going now, Ms. Jo?¡±


    ¡°The Northern Wavery leaders have a meeting in Sky Pce. As the design team, we naturally have to


    show up and let them review the design draft.¡±


    ¡°Will it be difficult?¡±

 Chapter 477

    Chapter 477


    Chapter 477 Express My Sincerity


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Let¡¯s see what happens. We can ssh them with wine if we can¡¯t deal with them and


    lose our patience. We can let go of this job at most.¡± Josie joked and seemed like she wasn¡¯t very


    concerned. Itforted Angel and Jade to a great degree as they were attending something like this


    for the first time.


    At Sky Pce.


    The car stopped. Angel and Jade couldn¡¯t help but gasp as they sized up the shiny signboard.


    It was a famous country club in Wavery, and they had heard rumors that only members could enter. All


    sorts of astounding stories spread about the country club, and ordinary people could only admire it.


    ¡°Ms. Jo, are you a member here? That¡¯s amazing.¡± Angel eximed like a little girl as she walked in.


    Laura had given Josie a card. Josie parked the car and didn¡¯t say anything. She was distracted. She


    had seen a figure resembling Larry, if she wasn¡¯t mistaken.


    If it was really him, and if he were really here, then¡­


    The country club was just ordinary but ssier than other ces. The first floor was like a bar filled with


    people. But one difference was that most of those who could enter were important. In other words, it


    was a yground for children of wealthy families.


    Everything above the first floor was private rooms to discuss work and other matters. If people in the


    rooms got too excited, they could take their business to bed. The facilities wereplete, and it was no


    different from a hotel.


    Sky Pce had eight floors and a majesticyout. It had a vintage design, and the walls inside were


    knocked down. It looked like a pce, so it was aptly named Sky Pce.


    There were man¨Cmade hot springs in the back area. It was a good district and cost a lot to build. All


    who could enter were naturally people of significant wealth.


    It was also Josie¡¯s first time here.


    Angel secretly took her cell phone out and took photos behind Josie. Her eyes were bright, but she was


    more impressed by the membership card that Josie had taken out just now.


    During the early evening, not many people were there. Josie had met the same people over the year,


    and she could almost remember all their names as she looked at them. Everyone was bustling about


    and getting ready to party tonight.


    A smile was on Josie¡¯s delicate lips. She led the two to the back area, where a few people were


    soaking in the hot springs. They chatted and joked around as the steam rose around them.


    Josie entered, and they were confused when they raised their head. One of them came to their senses,


    their expression changed. ¡°You¡¯re from nk Studios, aren¡¯t you? Laura Brandel?¡±


    and


    Josie smiled. She walked to the waiter and filled their empty sses with alcohol. ¡°I¡¯m from nk, but


    I¡¯m not Laura. My name is Josie Warren. Laura is busy today, so she sent me to apologize. I hope you


    don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Josie was pretty and humble. Since she had said such things, they couldn¡¯t say anything, even if they


    were displeased.


    ¡°I brought the project design today for you to look at. Do let me know if you have anyments.¡± After


    that, Jade and Angel immediately passed out the document.


    Someone looked at it and said, ¡°There¡¯s no rush. Come into the water, and let¡¯s talk about it. We¡¯ve put


    in essential oils that are good for you, Ms. Warren.¡±


    The other party had a flirty gaze as they sized up her figure. One of them touched Angel¡¯s hand, and


    she immediately pulled away. She blushed.


    Josie still smiled. ¡°I¡¯m not feeling well, today. My monthly visitor is here. I¡¯m sorry.¡± She filled her ss


    with alcohol. ¡°Here¡¯s a toast to express my sincerity.¡°.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    She finished it in one go, and her cheeks flushed, but she still had a smile. Someone pped, ¡°You can


    take your alcohol well!¡±


    ¡°But Ms. Warren, since you can¡¯t do it, you can let your two assistantse in to have fun. It¡¯s hard to


    make a reservation for the hot springs in Sky Pce.¡±

 Chapter 478

    Chapter 478


    Chapter 478 Ms Warren Is Here


    Jade subconsciously protected Angel, and they looked at Josie beseechingly.


    ¡°Look at them. They¡¯re still kids, and they¡¯re shy. They don¡¯t dare to go into the hot spring with you.¡±


    Josie looked down to pour the alcohol. ¡°Look at them. They¡¯re scared witless.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Other peopleughed. The topic returned to Josie. ¡°You look quite familiar. I feel like I¡¯ve seen you


    before.¡±


    Josie was startled and quickly answered, ¡°I used to work in Russell Group. Perhaps we¡¯ve met for work


    previously.¡±


    ¡°Russell Group.¡± The person repeated, then said, ¡°Dexter Russell from Russell Group is pretty tricky.


    As a matter of fact, this project was given to Russell Group at first. Why did you get it instead? Have


    you met him?¡±


    Josie forced a smile. She wanted to say that she had not only seen him but also slept with him. She


    had just left his side in the morning.


    ¡°Mr. Russell is an important figure. I don¡¯t have the opportunity to meet him. As for the project, Russell


    Group naturally outsourced it.¡±


    ¡°That makes sense. You wouldn¡¯t havee here if you¡¯d met Mr. Russell.¡± The person smiled as he


    sipped


    his drink.


    The restughed along.


    Josie didn¡¯t understand what he was implying. She was slightly confused. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? Dexter and Arnold from Carter Group have been on bad terms for a long time. This is


    Arnold¡¯s territory.¡±


    Arnold? Sky Pce belongs to him.


    Josie nodded as she understood in hindsight. ¡°Thank you for letting me know.¡±


    Josie spoke with them for around half an hour, and they didn¡¯t make things difficult for her. But she had


    crouched down for a long time, and her legs were slightly numb.


    She left the private room cautiously, and her legs immediately felt weak. Angel supported her. ¡°Ms. Jo,


    are you feeling okay?¡±


    Jade said, ¡°These executives are so hard to deal with.¡±


    Josie stood on the spot for a while. ¡°Thankfully, it¡¯s considered done. This is a nice ce. Go and have


    fun. We can leaveter. We¡¯re in no rush.¡±


    They were both young, and it wasn¡¯t easy to enter Sky Pce. Angel immediately hesitated. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be walking around.¡±


    Her body ached from being tormented by Edgar, and she wanted to look for a hot spring and soak in it.


    In thepletely dark room, the curtains were shut tightly. A man sleeping on the king¨Csized bed for


    the whole day finally moved. As he woke in a haze, he habitually reached out to the left, but it was


    empty.


    Arnold didn¡¯t feel sleepy any longer.


    He slowly opened his eyes, and his gorgeous, pitch¨Cdark eyes were seen. His hair was messy yet


    alluring, and his charming face was buried deeply in the white pillow. He looked utterly harmless.


    He spaced out for two seconds and instantly came to his senses. Arnold remembered that he had been


    on a twelve¨Chour flight and had been exhausted when he returned, so he hade here.


    He faintly heard a noiseing from downstairs and habitually furrowed his brows. Have I been


    sleeping for the whole day?


    Arnold looked for the remote control for the lights while he sat down. Under the light, the man on the


    bed looked dreamy yet calm. He gave off an unapproachable demeanor.


    Andy quickly came in from the outside after receiving a call. ¡°You¡¯ve woken up, Mr. Carter.¡±


    Arnold answered, ¡°Where¡¯s Dexter?¡±


    ¡°He arrived not too long ago and has started negotiations. Summer secretly followed him.¡±


    Arnold sneered and quickly put on his clothes. He seemed verynky as he stood in front of the mirror.


    Andy wanted to say something but stopped.


    ¡°Get on with it.¡±


    I just received news that our people saw Ms. Warren appear here.

 Chapter 479

    Chapter 479


    Chapter 479 Negotiation Meeting


    Arnold paused as he buttoned his cuff. He wrinkled his brows. ¡°Why is she here!


    For business¡±


    ¡°Is she in a tough spot!¡±


    ¡°No.


    Arnold walked out of the room. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    Time passed, and the atmosphere on the first floor was utterly boisterous. A popr, scantily-d girl


    band danced frantically and sensually on arge stage. Offstage, everyone raised their sses. Some


    were exhrated, and some only sat as they drank. They were cut off from the outside world and were


    nonchnt.


    On the other end, Josiemented that Arnold had created a great atmosphere. She found the reception


    and wanted to book a private room¡¯s hot springs but was notified that she needed to reserve in


    advance.


    Those fellows didn¡¯t lie.


    She was just about to look for Angel and Jade. She turned around, and someone tapped her shoulder


    while calling out softly, ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie was surprised. She turned and saw Larry in the light. ¡°You.¡±


    Larry pulled her to a corner. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I came to deal with work, of course. He Is Dexter around?¡±


    Larry nodded. ¡°Come with me¡±


    Because of the low light, Josie sprained her leg as she walked down the stairs. She suddenly felt a


    piercingly painful sensation. It hurt so much that she was about to cry.


    The door of the luxurious private room opened on the top floor, and the man was leaning against the


    couch. His face was partly dark, and his demeanor was dignified yet threatening. He had a neat


    appearance.


    Dexter had just finished a call and frowned when he saw the woman limp.


    Josie asked Larry, ¡°Do you have an antiseptic spray?¡±


    Larry came to his senses. I¡¯ll look for it now.¡± After that, he immediately found a small medical box,


    located the spray, and gave it to her.


    Josie took it from him and walked to Dexter¡¯s side miserably. It was hard to conceal her guilty


    conscience.


    I sprained my leg


    Dexter was calm. He knew her ploy but didn¡¯t object. He took the bottle from her.


    Josie immediately raised her legs up cleverly and put them in hisp


    His voice was ice cold. ¡°Which leg


    ¡°The left leg. Ah, not so hard¡­ It hurts.¡°


    ¡°How did you sprain it?¡±


    ¡°I walked too fast because I wanted to see you¡­¡±


    The man¡¯s eyes darkened, and he nced at her solemnly. His hand on her ankle was warm. ¡°Don¡¯t try


    and tter me. Why are you here today?¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°It was Laura¡¯s job, but she was injured, so I could onlye on her behalf. You won¡¯t me me, will


    you?¡± She often acted coy around him these days.


    Dexter rubbed her ankle. ¡°Little vixen.¡±


    Josie leaned against his neck and felt very secure. ¡°Why are you here? I heard that this is Arnold¡¯s


    ce.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s clearly for business and a negotiation meeting.


    Before she could nod, Larry added, ¡°Mr. Russell announced for a mid-way break when he knew you


    were around. He has to go on.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up. Dexter was displeased at Larry, but before Dexter could say anything, his work


    phone near the couch suddenly started vibrating.


    Josie was surprised. She fished out the cell phone from the crack behind her and turned to look at the


    caller ID before giving it to Dexter. She had a haughty tone. ¡°Who is it? There¡¯s no caller ID.¡±


    Dexter took it from her and deliberately wanted to infuriate her. ¡°My mistress. Do you believe that?¡±


    Josie smiled and didn¡¯t say anything because he had already answered the call.


    Andy left the room.

 Chapter 480

    Chapter 480


    Chapter 480 An Uninvited Guest


    Josie wanted to put her legs down, but hisrge hands grabbed hold of them as she was doing so. It


    seemed to be about work. He didn¡¯t hide from her and allowed her to cavesdrop. He would asionally


    respond. He was a reserved man,


    Josie looked at the man¡¯s exquisite features as he was next to her. With every gesture of his, she could


    see how cultured he was.


    Her heart raced, and a bold thought suddenly appeared in her mind. Her heart started beating furiously,


    and she took a deep breath. She leaned forward forcefully and went close to Dexter. She grabbed his


    neck and kissed his lips!


    ¡®Poof! It was as though something went off in his head. The man froze slightly.


    He was still holding his cell phone in one hand, and a familiar woman¡¯s voice was heard. She started


    getting anxious after not hearing Dexter¡¯s voice for a long time. ¡°Hello? Hello? Mr. Russell? Are you


    alright?¡±


    He forcibly took Josie into his arms, and his actions were so forceful, as if he wanted to devour her.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Mr. Russell? Are you still there? Is the signal bad?¡±


    Josie finally couldn¡¯t help butugh when she heard it.


    Dexter felt how distracted she was and pulled away slightly. His lips were somewhat flushed. He said


    on the phone, ¡°I¡¯ll deal with thister.¡±


    After that, he quickly hung up and threw the cell phone to one side.


    As he looked at her, his gaze was bright and dazzling.


    He suddenly leaned down and kissed her again.


    After some time, Josiey paralyzed in his arms. She heard his slightly hoarse yet enticing voice. ¡°You


    haven¡¯t improved.¡±


    Josie panted. ¡°I don¡¯t have anyone to practice with. Won¡¯t you destroy me if I¡¯ve improved?¡±


    Dexter smiled. He was quickly in a good mood and stood up straight. He picked her up and put her in


    hisp. ¡°You drank.¡±


    ¡°I needed to for work. I only drank a little.. Half a ss¡­¡±


    ¡°Whiskey. At least a full cup, Dexter said with a smirk. ¡°When have you gotten so good at acting coy?¡±


    Josie forcefully changed the topic. ¡°I suddenly remembered. Do you have hot springs here?¡±


    Dexter rose, exasperated, and carried her to the hot spring at the back. Her eyes were still shining as


    she sized up everything around her. This is capitalism. How corrupt. It¡¯s too corrupted.¡±


    Dexter scratched the tip of her nose. ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Her nose started to itch, and she shriveled up, wanting to hide.


    He caught hold of her and breathed rapidly. ¡°Stay.¡±


    Larry¡¯s voice was heard from the outside. ¡°We should leave, Mr. RussellTM


    Dexter wasn¡¯t in a rush to stand up. He chose a few essential oils that had health benefits before


    pouring them into the hot springs. After that, he instructed her, ¡°Wait here for me. We¡¯ll go home


    together.¡±


    Josie nodded obediently. ¡°Okay.¡±


    The hot spring wasforting. Josie removed her clothes and sat in the hot spring. She heard the


    noise outside vanish, and she resumed feeling calm.


    Perhaps she was feeling sleepy because it was too warm. Shey in the hot spring and shut her eyes


    but opened them when she heard the sound of the door opening. She furrowed her brows. Is Dexter


    back?


    Light footsteps were heard from the outside.


    Josie subconsciously called out. ¡°Is that you, Dexter?¡±


    The footsteps stopped and seemed to turn around as they slowly headed her way.


    Josie¡¯s heart pounded when no one answered her. She covered her chest as she looked at the door,


    and a familiar figure appeared.


    She furrowed her brows tightly, as though she thought it was unimaginable. ¡°Why is it you?¡±

 Chapter 481

    Chapter 481


    Chapter 481 I¡¯m Willing to Believe Him


    Josie looked up from the pair of heels. The person was dressed in a long, beige trench coat. Even


    when looking up at this person, Josie could tell she was stunning and had a great figure.


    ¡°We meet again, Josie.¡±


    To Josie¡¯s surprise, it was Summer.


    Josie¡¯s demeanor weakened since she had nowhere to hide. She looked elsewhere. ¡°How did you


    come in?¡±


    Summer crouched down calmly to be at Josie¡¯s eye level. She sized Josie up. ¡°What do you think? Dex


    brought me along today, so I can go wherever I like.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t mention Summer just now, and Josie was suspicious. ¡°You¡¯re lying. You followed him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s tone was confident. Summer was momentarily surprised and raised her brows. ¡°It seems like


    you¡¯re getting along well in your marriage with your husband, and you trust him fully, Ms. Warren.¡±


    The subtlety in her words made Josie subconsciously feel guilty. Josie soaked herself in the warm


    water but felt cold all over. ¡°No. I was just guessing.¡±


    ¡°Guessing?¡± Summer suddenly hit the surface of the water, and it sshed. The corners of Summer¡¯s


    clothes were wet, and Josie was forced to shut her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re a pretty good actor. I never thought


    that you would strengthen your position. You were lying to me previously, weren¡¯t you?!¡±


    Josie realized something when she saw Summer¡¯s angry feelings. Summer was an impatient woman.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have forced Dexter to stay in the hotel and be punished for four years to leave


    the


    country.


    Josie used the back of her hand to wipe the water on her face. Her panic vanished, and she smiled.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, haven¡¯t you been trying to make me misunderstand Dexter?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°We stayed at a hotel under the Olsen family, and I found strands of your hair on my belongings.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze fell on Summer¡¯s hair. ¡°It seems you still want to rece me, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Summer recalled how Dexter had humiliated her since that day was mentioned. She sneered. ¡°I did


    meet Dexter that day in the room you were staying in. This is a fact.¡±


    ¡°A fact.¡± Josie nodded. I¡¯m still willing to believe Dexter


    Summer¡¯s temper grew worse. Soon, she nodded in realization. ¡°Yes. With your family background and


    education experience, it must have been impossible to get where you are today, even if you tried your


    whole life.


    ¡°Starting a work studio, living in a luxurious suite,ing in and out of high-end venues, bing Mrs.


    Russell, and even your father¡¯s full recovery. All these were a pipedream to you in the past! But you


    have everything today. It¡¯s a windfall for you. Of course, you have to hold on tightly to everything. How


    devious of you!¡±


    Summer spoke confidently.


    Josie didn¡¯t retort as she listened to Summer because Summer was correct. Dexter had given her all


    these external things after she became Mrs. Russell


    I¡¯m Willing to Believe Him


    You¡¯re right, Ms. Olsen Josie smiled Tean¡¯t help bortrek poor, but it¡¯s hard to live a simple tife after


    being rich


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ook a deep bees


    Jose Warren! You¡¯re so shamelew couldn¡¯t ept such an answer with her upbringing


    *


    live Semily after being


    priet


    No matter what, everything you de contined and faced Summers anger head-on


    You promised me the same life, Ms. Olsen, but I thought abo giving me in¡¯t as beneficial as when I¡¯m


    Mrs. Russell

 Chapter 482

    Chapter 482


    Chapter 482 Keys to Emerald Vi


    ¡°You!¡± Summer was livid because no one understood this point better than she did.


    ¡°Not only do I act like Liana, I even look like her. Tell me, is Dexter really treating me as her?¡± Josie had


    long gotten over it, which was why she could poke fun at herself with no qualms. She saw Summer


    enraged, just as she wanted,


    Summer¡¯s chest heaved and differed from her usual calm,dylike demeanor. She stepped back


    because Josie hade out of the hot spring. Josie took a towel from the side and put it around


    herself. Her wet hair fell on her shoulders, and water rolled into her towel.


    ¡°You¡¯re too self-righteous. Dexter will never love you. He only loves Liana¡¯s recement!¡± Summer


    sneered. She couldn¡¯t ept it. ¡°Furthermore, do you think he really loves you? If he does, why am I


    still around?¡±


    As she spoke, she took out a set of keys. Two words were engraved on them. ¡®Emerald Vi.


    Josie furrowed her brows. She didn¡¯t expect this.


    ¡°Why do you have these keys?¡±


    Summer smiled in satisfaction when she saw Josie surprised. ¡°You¡¯re not the only one who has gone to


    Emerald Vi. Back when I was in the country, Dex deliberately prepared the ce for me so I could


    prepare for my exams. You¡¯re just a parasite!¡±


    Dexter had never talked about it, so Josie didn¡¯t know if it was true or false. She only knew that the


    keys in Summer¡¯s hands were real.


    Josie loved that ce. She could smell the salty sea breeze. It was quiet andfortable. Did that


    ce belong to Summer?


    ¡°Vaste and Russell Group worked together. Dex wanted me toe and gofortably, so he


    deliberately arranged for me to stay in Emerald Vi.¡± Summer smiled. ¡°By the way, the peach tree is


    growing well. Have you seen it?¡±


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    It was hard for Josie not to suspect anything when Summer spoke fondly of it.


    She even knows what¡¯s nted in the backyard. Josie¡¯s throat closed up.


    Summer felt that she had touched Josie¡¯s sore spot, and she continued. ¡°Some things were born to be


    mine. No one can take it from me!¡±


    Josie was silent for a moment, and Summer continued attacking her. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything?


    It seems like the preference you¡¯ve received as Mrs. Russell isn¡¯t such a big deal anymore.¡±


    ¡°Not a big deal?¡± Josie smiled when she heard it. ¡°There are many unopened clothes in Mason


    Garden¡¯s wardrobe. I bought them when I argued with him. I kept buying, and he kept increasing the


    credit limit. He had never felt upset over how much I spent. You say that this is nothing because he¡¯s


    wealthy?¡±


    ¡°You came into our room and naturally knew where my things were. You don¡¯t know that Dexter


    personally arranged them, do you? I didn¡¯t even know where my things were, but if I asked him, he


    could quickly locate them and give them to me.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°There was news of an official being disgraced recently. Did you see it? He had malicious


    intentions and almost tarnished my reputation. Dexter came in the nick of time. He was furious and


    pulled the man down from his high position. I saw his retribution in a few short days.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re also in this circle, Ms. Olsen. You naturally know how much weight that holds.¡±


    Summer¡¯s crimson lips trembled slightly. Not only did she know, but she was also a part of it.


    ¡°After what happened with Ivy, a nasty knife scar was left on my abdomen. Dexter personally drew a


    thistle tattoo so I won¡¯t be upset. He said it was to trap me by his side.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to take a look?¡±


    Summer took a deep breath. ¡°You¡¯re shameless!¡±


    Tm shameless indeed. I¡¯ve always been shameless with you, haven¡¯t I?¡±

 Chapter 483

    Chapter 483


    Chapter 483 You¡¯ve Lost


    Josie saw Summer¡¯s emotions fluctuate wildly, and Josie continued speaking calmly. This time, she


    leaned close to Summer¡¯s shoulder, and every word she said rang in Summer¡¯s ears.


    ¡°Has he ever prepared a ss of warm water, afraid you would be thirsty when you wake up in the


    middle of the night? Has he ever kissed you awake at dawn? Has he ever thrown you on the bed


    without a word when he¡¯s aroused? Has he tormented you in different ways? Has he everid on you


    during his peak and told you, I can ascend to heaven now, you little vixen¡±?¡±


    Josie smiled in satisfaction when she felt Summer trembling. After that, she pretended to pat Summer¡¯s


    shoulders in consideration. ¡°Even the thing you thought he cared about Liana the most. He took me to


    see his elders so I wouldn¡¯t worry. He even gave me funds and supported me to start a work studio with


    Laura to be independent.¡±


    Summer suddenly pulled away. She raised her hand and wanted to p Josie. ¡°You¡¯re disgusting!¡±


    Josie grabbed her hand.


    Summer immediately couldn¡¯t move.


    She wouldn¡¯t allow herself to be constantly hit!


    You and I both know what Dexter¡¯s personality is like He¡¯s an egotistical person. I have to admit that he


    was equally impatient with me at first, but it was superficial. He will immediately discard a woman when


    he doesn¡¯t like her.¡±


    ¡°But what about now? He takes the initiative to tell me about his life. He¡¯s afraid that I will take offense


    and feel aggrieved.¡±


    ¡°With his status, I know he has many rumored partners. There have been women who havee and


    gone even after we got married. But you see, who can really take him away from me?¡±


    ¡°Even if I have tentatively snatched him away from you, it only proves that he doesn¡¯t love you, right?¡±


    If no one can snatch him from me, what does it show? It proves that he loves me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s powerful words resonated.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Summer¡¯s heart sank into a bottomless pit.


    After taking a few deep breaths, she finally regained herposure. ¡°Don¡¯t forget that I have the Olsen


    family behind me. Russell Group has to attach itself to the Olsen family if they don¡¯t want to get into


    trouble. It isn¡¯t aplete victory for you yet!¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes twitched.


    ¡°Summer, you¡¯ve lost.¡±


    She let go of Summer¡¯s hand.


    Ultimately, Summer¡¯s hidden trump card was only her family background. It was too pathetic. Josie


    didn¡¯t want to continue arguing with her.


    Summer¡¯s legs trembled slightly. She reached out, held Josie¡¯s chin, and forced Josie to look up. ¡°I


    never thought you could speak so eloquently. It seems you¡¯re certain he loves you and won¡¯t leave


    you.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t surrender. She looked up. ¡°I¡¯m confident in my love for him, not his love for me.¡±


    Such a direct confession was basically dering war on Summer. Josie initially felt insecure, but today,


    Dexter gave her confidence.


    Summer was astonished by what she said. ¡°Who gave you permission to love him?!¡±


    In this world, being trapped by a woman¡¯s love was burdensome.


    Josie suddenly flicked Summer¡¯s hand away and was about to say something when Summer¡¯s hand hit


    Josie¡¯s towel. The knot on Josie¡¯s towel unraveled, and the towel fell downwards.


    She frowned and subconsciously turned to grab her towel to hide her crucial areas.


    At this juncture, a red birthmark came into Summer¡¯s view. She instantly widened her eyes and stared


    at Josie¡¯ back in disbelief.


    Josie¡¯s skin was fair, and her back was supple. A small, red birthmark was on Josie¡¯s sphenoid bone. It


    looked like a cloud and was particrly obvious under the contrast of her snow-white skin.


    How can this be? Summer took one step back in surprise, and she was at a loss!

 Chapter 484

    Chapter 484


    Chapter 484 Red Birthmark


    Josie still had yet to notice Summer¡¯s reactions. As she adjusted her towel with her back facing


    Summer, she asked. ¡°Aren¡¯t you leaving, Ms. Olsen?¡±


    Because she didn¡¯t turn around, she didn¡¯t know that Summer was leaving frantically. Summer left in a


    rush in her heels, and she leaned against the door and took a deep breath once the door was shut.


    She was still in disbelief, and her lips were turning pale.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    How can this be?! Josie has that birthmark on her!


    Summer leaned against the door and slowly slid to sit on the floor. Something that happened not long


    ago yed in her mind.


    After the charity auction ended, Mark called her over and instructed her to resign from Vaste so she


    could slowly learn to take over family affairs.


    She was in a bad mood because she had been rebuked by Dexter. ¡°Father, I¡¯ve said I¡¯m not interested


    in the Olsen family¡¯s stupid affairs. I want to be a researcher. This is my dream!


    Mark¡¯s deep eyes were immediately filled with ridicule when he heard it. ¡°Sum, do you want to be a


    researcher, or do you want to be Russell Group¡¯s researcher?¡±


    Summer was embarrassed.


    ¡°Dream? When you were forced to take this path, you were extremely unwilling. Why are you


    pretending in front of me now? Do you think I don¡¯t understand your thoughts?¡± Mark tapped the cane


    in his hands. ¡°Other than Dexter currently being married, I won¡¯t let you marry him and be his second


    wife even if he gets divorced!¡±


    ¡°Father!¡± It had struck Summer¡¯s sore spot. She rose in a fury, and her eyes were filled with tears.


    I didn¡¯t have to work so hard. I could have had more time to prepare to marry Dex. I tried to kill myself


    when I was overseas to beg you, but you weren¡¯t willing to bring me back! You contributed to the


    current situation!¡±


    She was almost unreasonably stubborn. Mark roared, ¡®Do you think you can please Dexter just by


    staying in Wavery? You¡¯re too conceited. I sent you overseas to calm you down, but it didn¡¯t work!¡±


    Everyone in the Olsen family doted on this daughter very much. But because they always gave in to


    her, her personality became stubborn.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to resign. I want to stay at Vaste!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Mark put his hand to his chest in a fury, and his fingers pointed in the air for a long time. He


    didn¡¯t say anything. At this time, a knock sounded at the door. It was Mark¡¯s secretary, and it seemed to


    be


    urgent.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen. The secretary came forward and wanted to say something but was apprehensive about


    Summer¡¯s presence. Mark had his hands behind his back. ¡°Why are you stammering? Spit it out!¡±


    ¡°Something happened to Dexter¡¯s wife.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes widened, and she arose at once.


    The secretary quickly told the whole story, and Mark had aplicated expression. ¡°How is she?¡±


    ¡°She was rescued in time, but she¡¯s frightened. But Dexter doesn¡¯t intend to just let this go.


    Mark looked at Summer when he heard it. ¡°Listen to that. Did you hear it? Can they get a divorce?¡±


    Summer¡¯s expression changed, and she pulled her father¡¯s hand pleadingly. ¡°No, Father, you must help


    1.


    Mark flicked her hand away and asked the secretary, ¡°Who incited this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s reportedly Nigel¡¯s daughter, Eileen Shaw.¡±


    ¡°You may leave.¡±


    Summer had a strange expression after he left. She wrinkled her brows. ¡°Father, you¡¯re peculiar today.


    You used to support me in the past¡­


    She wasn¡¯t sure about what exactly was strange.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I realized you¡¯re on the wrong side!¡±


    ¡°Really?! Father, you¡¯re not treating Josie as that person, are you?!¡±


    In the heat of the moment, Mark was furious. He raised his hand to p Summer.

 Chapter 485

    Chapter 485


    Chapter 485 Josie Is Liana


    Summer covered her face. She lifted her face in disbelief to look at her father.


    Mark¡¯s rage increased when faced with her sad expression. He said, ¡°That¡¯s your older sister. I won¡¯t


    tolerate you being so rudel¡±


    Big drops of tears immediately fell from Summer¡¯s eyes. She got up. I¡¯ve never seen my so-called


    sister alive. What sister is she to me?! What kind of a father are you?! When trouble arose at home


    when we were young, you only brought her along and left me with the nanny. Do you know how I felt?!¡±


    ¡°You only loved her. You don¡¯t love me at all!¡±


    Markughed in his rage when he heard it. ¡°What do you know about what happened back then?


    Under a circumstance when we were forced to choose one, your sister took the initiative to follow us


    and suffer. You wouldn¡¯t be living such a good life without her!¡±


    ¡°I would rather suffer than live in her shadow. If she were still alive, I wouldn¡¯t be the one to seed the


    Olsen family, would I?¡± Summer retorted. Her years of resentment erupted.


    ¡°Heh.¡± Mark shook his head in disappointment. If she were still alive, she would never say such defiant


    things like you!¡±


    Summer was tearful. ¡°In short, you can¡¯t help that parasite, Father. You must remember that she¡¯s


    Josie, not Liana


    Although Mark was incensed, he understood what she said.


    She¡¯s Josie, not Liana


    Summer was trembling, and she recalled what she had said. She thought it was ironic.


    The Olsen family had never given up looking in the ten years then Liana had gone missing. Regardless


    of their method, there would always be a note. There is a red, cloud-like birthmark on the back of Liana,


    who went missing¡±


    Many people pretended to be Liana during this period. They deliberately drew a birthmark, but the


    Olsen family knew whether it was genuine with one nce since those people didn¡¯t know the specific


    location of the birthmark.


    Summer had seen photos of Liana¡¯s birthmark and remembered it well.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    She never thought the next time she saw it would be on Josie¡¯s body!


    That¡¯s right. How can there be such a coincidence? Not only do they look alike, but their personalities


    are also alike.


    Summer tried to calm down but couldn¡¯t. It was as if a nuclear bomb had gone off in her head.


    Josie was Liana, who had gone missing for many years!


    Josie was Summer¡¯s older sister¡­


    Josie hadn¡¯t taken what belonged to Summer. Josie. was entitled to them!


    When Summer was sure of it, she panicked and took out her cell phone.


    This can¡¯t do. I can¡¯t let anyone find out about this secret. Josie has never looked for her family for so


    many years. I¡¯m sure she doesn¡¯t even know about it!


    After Josie got into trouble, the Harris fellow was disgraced quickly because Mark had privately helped


    Dexter.


    Mark did it just because Josie resembled Liana. Summer dared not imagine what would happen if he


    knew Josie was Liana.


    The call went through, and the other party greeted Summer politely. ¡°Ms. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°Help me investigate someone. Josie¡¯s father. Isn¡¯t he awake? You must help me make discreet


    inquiries about his past!¡±


    The call ended, and Summer quickly made another call. ¡°Mother, help me put in a good word with


    Father. I¡¯m willing toe home and take over the family affairs.


    She spoke coyly, but her eyes were filled with an unprecedented ambition.

 Chapter 486

    Chapter 486


    Chapter 485 Josie Is Liana


    Summer covered her face. She lifted her face in disbelief to look at her father.


    Mark¡¯s rage increased when faced with her sad expression. He said, ¡°That¡¯s your older sister. I won¡¯t


    tolerate you being so rudel¡±


    Big drops of tears immediately fell from Summer¡¯s eyes. She got up. I¡¯ve never seen my so-called


    sister alive. What sister is she to me?! What kind of a father are you?! When trouble arose at home


    when we were young, you only brought her along and left me with the nanny. Do you know how I felt?!¡±


    ¡°You only loved her. You don¡¯t love me at all!¡±


    Markughed in his rage when he heard it. ¡°What do you know about what happened back then?


    Under a circumstance when we were forced to choose one, your sister took the initiative to follow us


    and suffer. You wouldn¡¯t be living such a good life without her!¡±


    ¡°I would rather suffer than live in her shadow. If she were still alive, I wouldn¡¯t be the one to seed the


    Olsen family, would I?¡± Summer retorted. Her years of resentment erupted.


    ¡°Heh.¡± Mark shook his head in disappointment. If she were still alive, she would never say such defiant


    things like you!¡±


    Summer was tearful. ¡°In short, you can¡¯t help that parasite, Father. You must remember that she¡¯s


    Josie, not Liana


    Although Mark was incensed, he understood what she said.


    She¡¯s Josie, not Liana


    Summer was trembling, and she recalled what she had said. She thought it was ironic.


    The Olsen family had never given up looking in the ten years then Liana had gone missing. Regardless


    of their method, there would always be a note. There is a red, cloud-like birthmark on the back of Liana,


    who went missing¡±


    Many people pretended to be Liana during this period. They deliberately drew a birthmark, but the


    Olsen family knew whether it was genuine with one nce since those people didn¡¯t know the specific


    location of the birthmark.


    Summer had seen photos of Liana¡¯s birthmark and remembered it well.


    She never thought the next time she saw it would be on Josie¡¯s body!


    That¡¯s right. How can there be such a coincidence? Not only do they look alike, but their personalities


    are also alike.


    Summer tried to calm down but couldn¡¯t. It was as if a nuclear bomb had gone off in her head.


    Josie was Liana, who had gone missing for many years!


    Josie was Summer¡¯s older sister¡­


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Josie hadn¡¯t taken what belonged to Summer. Josie. was entitled to them!


    When Summer was sure of it, she panicked and took out her cell phone.


    This can¡¯t do. I can¡¯t let anyone find out about this secret. Josie has never looked for her family for so


    many years. I¡¯m sure she doesn¡¯t even know about it!


    After Josie got into trouble, the Harris fellow was disgraced quickly because Mark had privately helped


    Dexter.


    Mark did it just because Josie resembled Liana. Summer dared not imagine what would happen if he


    knew Josie was Liana.


    The call went through, and the other party greeted Summer politely. ¡°Ms. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°Help me investigate someone. Josie¡¯s father. Isn¡¯t he awake? You must help me make discreet


    inquiries about his past!¡±


    The call ended, and Summer quickly made another call. ¡°Mother, help me put in a good word with


    Father. I¡¯m willing toe home and take over the family affairs.


    She spoke coyly, but her eyes were filled with an unprecedented ambition.

 Chapter 487

    Chapter 487


    Chapter 487 Green Dress


    Dexter smiled lightly, and his expression was iprehensible.


    Mr. Matton suddenly mmed his ss and pointed upward. ¡°I have a way to hide it for you.¡±


    ¡°How?¡±


    Mr. Matton was slow to speak.


    Dexter restrained his smile. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything illegal. Arnold has often failed this way. Do you


    understand. Mr. Matton?¡±


    When Mr. Matton heard it, he was displeased and rolled his eyes. ¡°Mr. Russell, you must do certain


    things to survive in this industry. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve never done so.¡±


    Dexter put his ss down and picked up another one at the side. He smelled it. ¡°What did you do to


    make them hide a big problem like this slip-up in the project?


    Mr. Matton was in a dilemma when the private room¡¯s doors were opened. A voice was heard before


    anyone could be seen. Two important figures are discussing business in Sky Pce here today. It¡¯s my


    oversight foringte.¡±


    Dexter looked up and saw Arnold in a morous white suit as he walked in with a smile.


    A woman was behind him. Surprisingly, it was Heather, whom he had met twice. She wore a green


    dress today, and her silhouette was outlined distinctly. She looked gentle and obedient.


    Heather subconsciously avoided Dexter¡¯s gaze when their eyes met.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have, Mr. Carter,¡± Mr. Matton said.


    Arnold had found a seat at the side and sat down. After that, he tried the tea on the table. The person


    who made this tea is a disgrace. Come, make a new pot.


    His gaze fell on Heather. ¡°You do it.


    Heather nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    She was dressed in a vintage style, and the tea set in front of her suited her. Mr. Matton couldn¡¯t look


    away. ¡°Pfft. You have good taste in women, Mr. Carter. How can you work with such a cutie next to


    you?¡±


    It was a vulgar way of teasing. Arnold wasn¡¯t unhappy when he heard it. He lowered his voice, ¡°My


    assistant is great at making tea. Try itter, Mr. Matton


    Dexter had looked away and yed with the in ring on his ring finger. His thoughts were


    unfathomable.


    ¡°Dexter, I heard that something happened with the Landon project?¡± Arnold asked as he leaned closer


    to Dexter.


    Dexter raised his eyes. ¡°Yes. Mr. Matton was teaching me what to do, and then you came in. You


    interrupted us, Arnold.¡±


    Everyone understood the malice in his words.


    Arnold hit his legs and smiled. ¡°You should have listened to me in the first ce and given Landon to


    Carter Group. Then, these bad things wouldn¡¯t have happened to you.¡±


    ¡°I must not have considered it thoroughly, Dexter answered.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Everyoneughed, but no one was genuine.


    Listen to me, Mr. Russell. I can help you deal with the necessary examinations. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Mr.


    Matton didn¡¯t give up and urged Dexter in front of Arnold.


    Dexter pondered for a moment. It seemed like his reason triumphed over his desire for convenience.


    ¡°It¡¯s too risky.


    ¡°It¡¯s a risk being in this industry, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Heather was done making tea, and she handed a cup to Dexter politely. ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    The man nodded. When he took the teacup, he briefly touched her fair fingers. She shrank back as


    though


    very nervous.


    ¡°Do you understand economicw, Mr. Matton? If I get caught. I¡¯ll be jailed.¡± Dexter picked it up and


    sipped it before looking at Arnold. ¡°If you don¡¯t understand, you can ask Mr. Carter. He knows it well.¡±


    Heather saw Arnold¡¯s face darken, but it quickly returned to normal. That¡¯s right. My dad took a tumble


    this way. It¡¯s better not to take a risk.¡±

 Chapter 488

    Chapter 488


    Chapter 488 Willing To Try


    After arguing with Summer, Josie was no longer in the mood to stay in the hot spring. She sent


    messages to Angel and Jade, telling them to leave with her car.


    After that, she called a server and told him to send the car keys to the entrance of Sky Pce.


    She left the room after that. She wanted to walk around and wait for Dexter¡¯s meeting to end.


    She walked along the corridor and was so bored that she started counting her footsteps. On her


    hundredth step, she happened to stop outside a private room. The door was hollowed out, and


    fragmented speech could be heard inside. Josie saw Dexter¡¯s figure through the crack.


    And Arnold.


    The two kept a distance. One sat upright, while the other was easygoing and carefree. They had


    different demeanors.


    A pair of fair, delicate hands served tea to Dexter. Josie wanted to take a closer look but couldn¡¯t.


    Josie didn¡¯t think much about it. She stepped away and waited for him at the door.


    Inside, Dexter still didn¡¯t relent. Mr. Matton was on the verge of getting distraught. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to


    save yourself, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Arnold silently drank his tea. Suddenly, a figure outside shed across his eyes.


    He stirred. The two of you are talking about confidential business information. I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    Outside, before Josie could walk far, she saw a familiar figure. He wore a suit and tie and looked


    charming under the colorful lights.


    Josie blinked. She turned and wanted to leave.


    ¡°Josie.¡± He called her. ¡°Why are you running?¡±


    Josie paused. She wanted to leave quickly, but he grabbed her forcefully. She turned and saw Arnold¡¯s


    smiling facee into view. His smile harbored malicious intentions.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t smile. ¡°For work. It was for work.¡±


    ¡°So why are you running?¡± Arnold sized her up thoughtfully.


    She didn¡¯t know why, but she felt she didn¡¯t know how to face Arnold after so much had happened. The


    two clearly didn¡¯t overstep boundaries, and no affection existed between the two.


    But it felt strange.


    ¡°Okay, I was waiting for him.¡± Josie thought about it. She had her hands behind her back and was


    slightly bashful.


    Arnold noticed it. It was unsightly. He turned to the side. ¡°Why? Have you put everything behind you?


    Have you fallen in love?¡±


    He spoke inly, and Josie didn¡¯t know how to deal with him. She looked into his eyes and said


    solemnly, ¡°I¡¯m willing to try, Arnold.¡±


    No clouds were in the sky tonight. The two stood in the garden, only a few feet apart, but Arnold felt the


    distance between them was heaven and earth.


    He nodded and sat down on the steps. He didn¡¯t care that the ground was dirty. ¡°What if it doesn¡¯t work


    after you try?¡±


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    ¡°If it doesn¡¯t.¡± Josie suddenly realized she hadn¡¯t thought of the consequences. She sat next to Arnold.


    ¡°Then¡­ At worst, I¡¯ll just start from the beginning. I¡¯m healthy. It¡¯s not like I¡¯ll have nowhere to go.¡±


    Her side profile was smooth and plump, and an enduring innocence was still in her eyes. It caught


    Arnold¡¯s attention.


    His eyes were sad. ¡°You¡¯re brave.¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡± Josie turned and looked at him. ¡°We¡¯re still young, aren¡¯t we? If there¡¯s something you want to


    go all out and do, go ahead.¡±


    Arnold looked at her and sneered. ¡°You¡¯ve decided to stand on Dexter¡¯s side, which means you¡¯ve


    made me an enemy. You won¡¯t me me if you get hurt in the future, will you?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. Josie smiled. She looked up at the moon. ¡°When we first met, you wanted me to be


    your spy, but I disagreed. Hasn¡¯t my resolve been firm from the start until the end?¡±

 Chapter 489

    Chapter 489


    Chapter 489 Fight for What You Want


    ¡°Of course.¡± It was so firm that he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    After sitting there for a while, it was as though the two didn¡¯t know what to talk about. Josie felt slightly


    uneasy. She clearly never felt this way when she was with him in the past.


    She rose and wanted to leave, but Arnold reached out to stop her. He raised his head and said, ¡°Sit


    with me a little longer.


    Josie looked at him as she towered above him. At that moment, the moon was reflected in his eyes,


    and she saw infinite loneliness and destion in them. Her heart softened, and she smiled. ¡°Are you a


    puppy, Arnold?¡±


    He looked like one from that angle.


    Arnold didn¡¯t get angry. He answered, ¡°Mm. I am.¡±


    It was rare for him to show such weakness. Josie suddenly understood why he could attract so many


    women. Who would be able to take it?


    She patted his head. ¡°Why? Were you unhappy today?¡±


    When have I ever been happy with your husband around?¡±


    Josieughed unkindly. When she looked up again, the private room door was open. The first toe


    out was the overbearing Mr. Matton, who seemed unhappy. He was followed by Dexter. Larry was


    holding Dexter¡¯s jacket and handed it to him.


    Dexter looked up, and Josie immediately pulled her hand back. She kept her distance from Arnold and


    was slightly cautious.


    Arnoldposed himself and stood up. ¡°Has it ended so soon, Dexter?¡±


    Heather was thest toe out. She was startled to see Josie¡¯s figure.


    And Josie never imagined that the assistant seemed so familiar to her. It was as though they had


    previously met.


    Dexter only looked at Josie. He answered, ¡°Mm. Come here.¡±


    Josie walked to him. Heather also walked to Arnold at this time, and the two brushed past each other.


    They looked at each other with fleeting confusion and familiarity.


    ¡°You talked for so long?¡± Josie walked to Dexter¡¯s side and naturally lifted his arm.


    ¡°Mm. Why did youe out?¡±


    Dexter took his coat from Larry and put it around Josie.


    ¡°I was too bored in the room¡­¡±


    The two walked out side by side, looking exceptionally well-matched.


    Heather stopped and looked at their figures as they walked further away. She pursed her lips silently,


    and Arnold walked to her side. ¡°If you want it, fight for it.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    In Dexter¡¯s car, Josie leaned against him and smiled, trying to curry favor with him. ¡°You aren¡¯t angry,


    are you?¡±


    The man yed with her hair with his fingers. He knew well but asked, ¡°Why would I be angry?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ Then I should be the one to get angry.¡± She drew out her voice. ¡°You meet many good women


    during social engagements, don¡¯t you?¡±


    It was a peculiar question. Dexter smiled lightly and loosened his grip. ¡°Stop it.¡±


    Josie stopped teasing him. She was exhausted from the whole day. At that moment, she hugged his


    arm and shut her eyes peacefully.


    Dexter looked down at her silent face and said, ¡°I turned down a backdoor method today. Perhaps


    public opinion will erupt over the next few days. I¡¯ll be swamped.¡±


    Josie opened her eyes and was solemn. ¡°If you think this is the correct decision, do it.¡±


    Dexter smiled, and he caressed her hair. ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    The work studio¡¯s projects were advancing steadily. Although Laura rarely came, Josie could tell Laura


    looked much better.


    ¡°I¡¯ve met the psychologist you rmended. He¡¯s pretty good. Thank you.¡± Laura had taken her


    advice.


    Josie was happy when she heard it. ¡°That¡¯s great. It¡¯s good that the doctor helps.¡±


    ¡°I have something to tell you.¡±

 Chapter 490

    Chapter 490


    Chapter 490 A Crisis of Confidence


    Josie saw that her expression was strange, and her heart sank. She subconsciously lowered her voice.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Summer quit her job in Vaste. She returned to Mark¡¯s side to learn about family affairs.¡± Laura asked


    earnestly, ¡°Does this have anything to do with you?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. She thought of thest time she had parted on bad terms with Summer and


    didn¡¯t think anything was out of the ordinary. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. Isn¡¯t it normal for her to learn these things


    as the sessor of the Olsen family?¡±


    Laura snorted coldly. ¡°The main point is that she previously didn¡¯t want to take over the family business.


    Her personality suddenly changed. It¡¯s strange.¡±


    Josie patted Laura¡¯s shoulder. She didn¡¯t overthink it. ¡°After all, that¡¯s her prerogative.¡±


    Laura thought it made sense and didn¡¯t say anything else.


    After that day. Dexter spent most of his time at Russell Group. Josie hadn¡¯t seen him in a few days, and


    she specially made chicken soup for him but was stuck at an intersection.


    She faintly saw a long line of cars in front. There seemed to be many people gathered in front of


    Russell Group in broad daylight, and it was a lively scene.


    She didn¡¯t understand. Did something happen at the front?


    Josie held her cell phone as she got down to investigate. She took a few steps forward and bumped


    into the traffic police on duty. ¡°You don¡¯t have to look, miss. Traffic is at a gridlock, and no one can


    move. Change your route.¡±


    Josie smiled at him. ¡°It¡¯s alright. My destination is up ahead.¡±


    She held the thermos cup and quickly walked over. Her petite figure was quite conspicuous.


    At this time, her cell phone was flooded with news. It vibrated incessantly. Josie looked down at it and


    was surprised to see her Twitter and WhatsApp app with the ¡¯99-¡® notification. What had happened?


    She stopped walking and shrewdly caught a glimpse of the word ¡®breaking¡¯ in one of the news. ¡®Russell


    Group met with a crisis of confidence.


    Josie stood on the spot, startled.


    She scrolled down, and almost all the news was regarding Russell Group. They were reporting that


    there was a copse at Landon¡¯s project.


    Josie¡¯s blood froze.


    She continued scrolling with a trembling hand. Thankfully, she hadn¡¯t seen any fatalities yet.


    No one had died, but the project quality was a big problem. No wonder it was reported as a crisis of


    confidence.


    She stood frozen at the spot. She was utterly shocked by the real-time news.


    At this time, one of the reporters downstairs at Russell Group had a sharp eye and noticed a small


    figure


    who stood in a daze on the spot. They immediately cried out, ¡°A Russell Group employee!¡±


    Josie suddenly raised her head. Her corbone was beautiful as her breathing increased.


    She had nowhere to run.


    Cameras were pointed at her.


    She was assaulted with all sorts of baffling questions.


    She stood startled and at a loss as she was surrounded by reporters.


    The reporters¡¯ constant questions made her ears buzz. Josie breathed slowly and forced herself to


    calm down and listen carefully. When she understood it, her expression changed gradually.


    Tm not a Russell Group employee, but I trust in Russell Group. If they made a mistake, they will take


    responsibility.¡±


    On the top floor of Carter Group, Arnold turned off the television. He shut his eyes and massaged the


    bridge of his nose.


    Josie¡¯s thin and weak figure lingered in his mind. She looked calm, but her helpless gaze pierced his


    heart, and he almost found it hard to breathe.


    This initially had nothing to do with her.


    ¡°Are you feeling upset over her?¡± Summer¡¯s voice suddenly rang in his ears.


    Arnold slowly looked up and saw her standing by his office door.


    Summer sneered. ¡°It won¡¯t work if you¡¯re so indecisive like this, Arnold.¡±


    t for What You Wan¡°Of course.¡± It was so firm that he didn¡¯t know what to do.


    After sitting there for a while, it was as though the two didn¡¯t know what to talk about. Josie felt slightly


    uneasy. She clearly never felt this way when she was with him in the past.


    She rose and wanted to leave, but Arnold reached out to stop her. He raised his head and said, ¡°Sit


    with me a little longer.


    Josie looked at him as she towered above him. At that moment, the moon was reflected in his eyes,


    and she saw infinite loneliness and destion in them. Her heart softened, and she smiled. ¡°Are you a


    puppy, Arnold?¡±


    He looked like one from that angle.


    Arnold didn¡¯t get angry. He answered, ¡°Mm. I am.¡±


    It was rare for him to show such weakness. Josie suddenly understood why he could attract so many


    women. Who would be able to take it?


    She patted his head. ¡°Why? Were you unhappy today?¡±


    When have I ever been happy with your husband around?¡±


    Josieughed unkindly. When she looked up again, the private room door was open. The first toe


    out was the overbearing Mr. Matton, who seemed unhappy. He was followed by Dexter. Larry was


    holding Dexter¡¯s jacket and handed it to him.


    Dexter looked up, and Josie immediately pulled her hand back. She kept her distance from Arnold and


    was slightly cautious.


    Arnoldposed himself and stood up. ¡°Has it ended so soon, Dexter?¡±


    Heather was thest toe out. She was startled to see Josie¡¯s figure.


    And Josie never imagined that the assistant seemed so familiar to her. It was as though they had


    previously met.


    Dexter only looked at Josie. He answered, ¡°Mm. Come here.¡±


    Josie walked to him. Heather also walked to Arnold at this time, and the two brushed past each other.


    They looked at each other with fleeting confusion and familiarity.


    ¡°You talked for so long?¡± Josie walked to Dexter¡¯s side and naturally lifted his arm.


    ¡°Mm. Why did youe out?¡±


    Dexter took his coat from Larry and put it around Josie.


    ¡°I was too bored in the room¡­¡±


    The two walked out side by side, looking exceptionally well-matched.


    Heather stopped and looked at their figures as they walked further away. She pursed her lips silently,


    and Arnold walked to her side. ¡°If you want it, fight for it.¡±


    In Dexter¡¯s car, Josie leaned against him and smiled, trying to curry favor with him. ¡°You aren¡¯t angry,


    are you?¡±


    The man yed with her hair with his fingers. He knew well but asked, ¡°Why would I be angry?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ Then I should be the one to get angry.¡± She drew out her voice. ¡°You meet many good women


    during social engagements, don¡¯t you?¡±


    It was a peculiar question. Dexter smiled lightly and loosened his grip. ¡°Stop it.¡±


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Josie stopped teasing him. She was exhausted from the whole day. At that moment, she hugged his


    arm and shut her eyes peacefully.


    Dexter looked down at her silent face and said, ¡°I turned down a backdoor method today. Perhaps


    public opinion will erupt over the next few days. I¡¯ll be swamped.¡±


    Josie opened her eyes and was solemn. ¡°If you think this is the correct decision, do it.¡±


    Dexter smiled, and he caressed her hair. ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    The work studio¡¯s projects were advancing steadily. Although Laura rarely came, Josie could tell Laura


    looked much better.


    ¡°I¡¯ve met the psychologist you rmended. He¡¯s pretty good. Thank you.¡± Laura had taken her


    advice.


    Josie was happy when she heard it. ¡°That¡¯s great. It¡¯s good that the doctor helps.¡±


    ¡°I have something to tell you.¡±

 Chapter 491

    Chapter 491


    Chapter 491 Already in the United Kingdom


    Arnold didn¡¯t say anything, but Summer didn¡¯t let him go. ¡°Dexter is already in the United Kingdom. If I


    were you, I wouldn¡¯t wait here anxiously for his next move. After all, with his ability, you might lose the


    chance to confront him if he goes to the next step.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t easy for Josie to free herself, but when she did, she understood the sequence of events in the


    next two hours.


    The problems with the project were the fuse. After this was leaked, the acquirers of other projects


    under Russell Group suddenly backed out after investing in early¨Cstage funding, and the stock prices


    fell. It seemed premeditated. None of the many famous corporations stood on Russell Group¡¯s side.


    Russell Group influenced the market, so this attracted much criticism for Dexter.


    Larry immediately saw the video of Josie and called her. ¡°Listen to me, Mrs. Russell. Old Mr. Russell


    has returned to oversee Russell Group. Mr. Russell is now in the United Kingdom.


    ¡°The United Kingdom?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The United Kingdom is a financial center, and it¡¯s easy for us to work here.¡± Larry paused. ¡°Mr.


    Russell doesn¡¯t want you to worry and to go about your business. He will solve everything.¡±


    No matter the situation, Dexter¡¯s presence set her mind at ease.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    ¡°Larry, I¡¯m worried about him. I want to be with him, Josie said.


    He paused momentarily and said, ¡°The secretarial department needs to send some information here.


    Mr. Russell might not be able to use it, but¡­¡±


    As soon as he said it, Josie understood and answered almost immediately. ¡°Leave it to me.¡±


    Stars shone brightly at night, and airnes quickly took off in the sky. Josie sat in her seat. She had


    documents and information from the secretarial team open in her hands. The nouns wereplicated,


    but she didn¡¯t skip a single word as she forced herself to read.


    It wrote that the merger and acquisition approach was direct. There were no other cases like this, so


    Dexter had to solve them with his intellect and wisdom.


    If he didn¡¯t solve it correctly, Russell Group would be overtaken by variouspanies eyeing them


    covetously. If Dexter solved it, Russell Group would be like a phoenix rising from the ashes. No one


    would ever dare to provoke him again.


    The flight attendant offered Josie water, and she leaned back to take a short break. She exhaled softly,


    and she reflected with her muddled mind.


    You¡¯re so troublesome, Dexter.


    You always do worrying things and need others to pick up after you. This issue is significant and has


    ndered Russell Group¡¯s core. This is for sure.


    I wonder how Dexter¡­ is doing now.


    Hard¨Cpressed? I don¡¯t think so. But he must be wracking his brain, right?


    He¡¯s a world¨Css professional.


    Josie kept the information safe. Since something had happened, she had to take a look before she


    could stop worrying.


    Dexter had a hard time for thest two days.


    Calvin quickly arrived as the assistant, To the media, Calvin was an important figure. The two rarely


    appeared together. Now that they were gathered together in the United Kingdom, they naturally


    attracted attention.


    It was ten at night at one of the buildings in the United Kingdom.


    Dexter was exhausted when his meeting ended. He arrived at Calvin¡¯s hotel and asked the receptionist


    for a room key. Dexter found Calvin¡¯s room and entered it without any warning. Dexter headed to the


    master bedroom. ¡°We¡¯ll start working tomorrow. You¡­¡±


    As Dexter spoke, he turned and walked into the master bedroom. After that, he suddenly stopped.


    ¡°D*mn.¡± Dexter swore. He turned and backed away.

 Chapter 492

    Chapter 492


    Chapter 492 Don¡¯t Tell Me You Have a Crush on Me


    There were rumors that Calvin, who always had a clean and gentlemanly image, wasn¡¯t close to


    women because he was gay! Furthermore, he was rumored to be the receiving party within his gay


    rtionship! Tabloids had once reported that someone had witnessed Calvin enter a gay bar.


    The light in the room was dim. Calvin was only in a shirt and protected the frightened woman under


    him. ¡°Get out!¡±


    Dexter raised his hands to cover his eyes. He only entered the room again when he saw that the


    woman had run away without daring to look at him. He took a deep breath. ¡°Why did you bring her


    along?¡±


    The lights brightened, and Calvin stood up. He adjusted his clothes and calmly buttoned his shirt. His


    expression didn¡¯t change. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you have a crush on me, Dex. Do you have an opinion on


    this?¡±


    Dexter restrained his annoyance in exasperation. He looked tiredly at the handsome man before him


    and couldn¡¯t help but think that Calvin had great looks and abilities. What¡¯s wrong with him? Why has


    he recently focused on ordinary,mon, in¨Clooking women?


    It was as though Calvin could read Dexter¡¯s mind. He easily guessed what Dexter was thinking about


    and said, ¡°You better not embarrass her.¡±


    Dexter massaged the bridge of his nose. The woman caused the man, who didn¡¯t fall in love easily, to


    say such a thing. Calvin must have really been in love.


    ¡°Alright.¡± He went straight to the point. ¡°You understand many things without needing me to talk about


    them. This matter is really Russell Group¡¯s oversight, which pushed the issue to such a stage. Sorry for


    making youe all the way.¡±


    Since they were both men, Calvin was direct. He took out three documents from the drawer and spread


    them out in front of Dexter individually. ¡°These are fundings that came in from the branches. This is


    from me. Lastly, this is what your grandfather wants to pass to you.¡±


    The three documents before him made up arge sum of money.


    Dexter looked down at it and understood they wanted to give him money so he could strike back


    against the rude acquirer.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He looked at it briefly before taking Russell Group¡¯s branch document. ¡°This is the furthest they can


    take it. I expect them to run wild again. Since we¡¯re slowly bing passive, I don¡¯t need so much. I


    don¡¯t want you to get involved.¡±


    He picked up his grandfather¡¯s document. ¡°I will save this as a backup. My grandfather will always be


    concerned about me.¡±


    Calvin shrugged, expressing nonchnce.


    Dexter had spent many days talking at the conference table. Even if he were invincible, he couldn¡¯t


    help but feel tired and want to rest.


    He threw himself on the bed and slept through the night without any


    distractions.


    He took out his cell phone and nced at it before he slept. Josie still hadn¡¯t called him.


    He was hesitating if he should call and tell her everything was alright. But if he did, he would feel


    emotional.


    Therefore, his cell phone screen remained on the call log page. Ultimately, the screen slowly dimmed


    and went ck before Dexter finally gave up. He buried himself in the covers and fell asleep.


    He slept through the night.


    The next day, it was misty outside. He was awoken by a persistent knocking.


    Dexter opened the door drowsily, and his face was as dark as the devil. The first thing he said was,


    ¡°Who is it?


    The other party was a skinny woman in an Armani suit. She had deliberately worn it to seem mature.


    She had a pile of documents in her hands and smiled at him. ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    He narrowed his eyes. ¡°¡­ Heather?¡±

 Chapter 493

    Chapter 493


    Chapter 493 Are You Afraid of Me?


    Heather looked at him calmly. ¡°Mr. Carter told me toe. He wanted me to give you this information.¡±


    Dexter leaned against the door and seemed slightly indifferent. ¡°What information?¡±


    ¡°Information about how to respond to the crisis this time.¡±


    Heather seemed somewhat afraid of him. She tried her best to calm down. Her hands holding the


    information trembled a little.


    Dexter stepped aside, and Heather walked in. The first thing she saw was arge messy bed, and she


    looked away, bewildered. Dexter sat on the couch calmly. ¡°Are you afraid of me?¡±


    Heather smiled ¡°You¡¯re Russell Group¡¯s business executor. I don¡¯t think I¡¯m the only one afraid of you.¡±


    He signaled her to sit and calmly took out a pack of cigarettes. ¡°What message does Arnold want you


    to pass to me?¡±


    Heather/was startled. ¡°You know he has a message for you?¡±


    Dexter took a cigarette from the pack. It wasn¡¯t his usual cigarette. It was a cigar. He silently twirled it in


    his hands. He was clear¨Cheaded.


    Heather sat down and put the information aside when she saw him silent. ¡°The allocation of six


    hundred million from the executives is gone, right?¡±


    This was what Arnold had said..


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was fixed on the flickering sunlight on the balcony from the start until the end.


    He had rejected Mr. Matton¡¯s backdoor method that day in Sky Pce, so he naturally had to deal with


    the crisis that resulted from it. Those people wouldn¡¯t let him ovee it so quickly.


    Dexter was prepared.


    Heather continued, ¡°Mr. Carter means that he can step in to suppress Russell Group¡¯s crisis and


    circte cash for Russell Group, but he has a condition.¡±


    Dexter lit the cigar, and smoke started flowing. He answered, ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°He wants Russell Group to change their centralized power situation so external funding can enter.¡±


    Heather was apprehensive when she said it.


    The manughed lightly when he heard it. ¡°I see that Mr. Carter still wants to destroy me.¡±


    For a moment, Heather panicked from seeing the smile on the corners of his lips.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t agree, wouldn¡¯t you havee for nothing?¡±


    Heather avoided his examining gaze. ¡°Sort of.¡±


    Dexter stood up with his back facing her. ¡°He will punish you.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Mr. Carter appreciates me and treats me well.¡±


    Heather suddenly understood something as she looked at his figure. What kind of a person was


    Dexter? Only he could turn the tables on others. No one could plot against him.


    ¡°You can go.¡±


    He was so decisive. Heather furrowed her brows and couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid, Mr.


    Russell?¡±


    Dexter nced to the side. ¡°Afraid of what?¡±


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Heather had never seen a business executor so calm when he was in an imminent disaster. She


    seemed to have broadened her horizons today, and her eyes flickered. ¡°If Russell Group can¡¯t


    persevere, Mr. Carter will receive more than he requested today.¡±


    After all, Old Mr. Russell had been called into action.


    ¡°What about you? Do you want me to persevere or not?¡± After he said it, their rtionship seemed to


    be pulled closer.


    Heather almost couldn¡¯t answer. ¡°Of course, I hope that you can persevere. I¡¯ve seen Ms. Olsen¡¯s


    interview. She wrote that the business world will still depend on you in decades.¡±


    Dexter seemed slightly surprised. ¡°Where did you see it?¡±


    ¡°It was your interview in Wavery, Mr. Russell. Everyone has always scrambled to read your interviews.¡±


    Dexter had one hand in his pocket. His cigar was between his lips as he walked to Heather. Dexter


    didn¡¯t seem very vicious. Instead, he appeared highly unrestrained.


    Heather looked down and couldn¡¯t retreat.


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve sent the information, you can leave. I¡¯m going to sleep for a while more, Dexter


    unexpectedly said to Heather.


    He was chasing her away.

 Chapter 494

    Chapter 494


    Chapter 494 Misunderstanding


    Heather was astonished. After that, she turned to walk out decisively and discreetly. Before the door


    closed, he added, ¡°Armani doesn¡¯t suit you.¡±


    Heather¡¯s expression immediately changed. Dexter retreated to close the door when Josie appeared in


    his view.


    The room door across from his suddenly opened, and Josie appeared in his sight with information in


    her hands.


    Heather clearly saw that when Dexter saw Josie, his expression changed, and he immediately looked


    clear- headed.


    Josie naturally saw it as well, and she was astonished.


    Her flight hadnded in the wee hours of the morning. After that, she followed the address Larry had


    given her to Dexter¡¯s hotel. It was two hours from daybreak, and she was afraid she would miss Dexter,


    so she could only get a room and put her things in it first. She never thought she would see such a


    scene


    when she came out.


    It was an inexpressible humiliation. Josie naturally thought of the worst when she saw the scene. It was


    a huge shock. As it turned out, he didn¡¯t want her toe.


    Josie felt a tightness in her chest, and her stomach felt ill. She didn¡¯t look at the man. She held the door


    handle and closed the door.


    At this time, she suddenly felt a breeze. A strong force grabbed her wrist, and Dexter forcefully pulled


    her into his room before turning and kicking the door shut.


    Even if Heather wasn¡¯t very sensible, she understood what was happening.


    ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood.¡±


    He trapped her in a corner, and their faces were particrly close. They could smell each other¡¯s


    scents. After almost losing him, his sincerity moved her.


    ¡°Who is she?¡± Josie felt slightly smothered.


    ¡°You¡¯ve seen her. She¡¯s Arnold¡¯s assistant.¡±


    ¡°You were talking to her in a bathrobe?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression instantly softened. ¡°I was exhausted. I had just awoken when she came.¡±


    It dispelled Josie¡¯s misgivings. She sighed and reached out to caress the delicate veins on his side


    profile. Her eyes were wide open as they dimmed and lit up. She smiled. ¡°You were so fierce just now.


    You scared


    her.¡±


    Dexter grabbed her hand. ¡°When did youe?¡±


    Jo?ie smiled and lied. ¡°I just arrived. I woke you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Dexter¡¯s gaze fell on the things in her hands. He could roughly guess what it was when he


    saw the keywords clearly. Dexter felt vaguely tired just by looking at it.


    Josie seemed gentle and had no opinions of her own. In reality, she was bright and intelligent. Smart


    girls usually had amon habit. They were always earnest.


    She hade to the United Kingdom today for Russell Group, not him.


    Dexter looked deeply at the woman before him and felt uninterested for the first time. He let her go.


    Josie was smart. When she saw his gaze, her heart sank. Oh no.


    She was quick. When Dexter turned, she tightly hugged his waist from behind. ¡°Larry gave this to me.


    Furthermore, I wanted to see you.¡±


    She babbled and exined in a rush.


    Dexter could read her emotions. After she said it, he immediately understood that Josie¡¯sst sentence


    was why she hade to the United Kingdom.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    His heart softened, and a smile quickly appeared on his face. The corners of his lips curved, and he


    looked a lot gentler.


    Dexter was a healthy man and had been stirred by Calvin¡¯s scenest night. With the beautiful woman


    in his arms, he couldn¡¯t restrain himself even if he wanted to.

 Chapter 495

    Chapter 495


    Chapter 495 Sharp Pain


    When he hugged Josie and fell heavily on the bed, the clock by the bed showed seven in the morning.


    It was just the time for his morning lust.


    It was the right ce and the right time.


    Josie was caught off guard. She hugged Dexter¡¯s neck and panted. She never imagined he would


    change his mind so quickly. ¡°Is Russell Group alright?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about this.¡±


    He kissed her deeply, and it was intertwined with intense lust. Josie wanted to push him away but to no


    avail with his strength. She could only let him do as he wished.


    After a while, a sharp pain in her lower abdomen suddenly made Josie shrink. The acute pain made


    her instantly perspire, and her expression was pale.


    Dexter was sure he hadn¡¯t done anything. He looked up at her and immediately hugged her. Her


    scrawny figure was shriveled up into a ball in his arms. His lust vanished entirely. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t know. The pain was sudden and extremely severe. It made her gasp, and she couldn¡¯t say


    anything.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine¡­¡± Josie¡¯splexion improved slightly after a long time. She sat up. ¡°Perhaps I caught a


    cold.¡±


    Dexter naturally didn¡¯t dare to do anything else. Heid her on the bed and treated her gently like a


    precious jewel.


    The pain came and went quickly. Josie was no longer in pain and feared that she had interrupted the


    man¡¯s desire. She reached out to hug his neck and touched her head against his forehead. Tm fine.¡±


    Dexter loosened her hands and put them under the covers. His expression was unexpectedly gentle.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. I will hurt you under such a circumstance.¡±


    At that moment, Josie was trying to please him.


    Josie was unwilling to go to the hospital that morning, so Dexter could only hug her as they slept in


    each other¡¯s embrace for two hours.


    Two hourster, Dexter was woken up by knocking again. It was Larry. ¡°The acquirer has arrived, Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    He had important matters to deal with downstairs.


    Dexter opened his eyes and saw Josie sleeping soundly in the crook of his arm. It seemed like a


    lifetime had passed after waking up.


    The unexpected surprise from her had made him lose his mind. He came to his senses slightly after


    waking up. Dexter was indeed somewhat at a loss.


    Josie woke up when Dexter was changing. She opened her eyes slightly and asked hoarsely, ¡°Will you


    be alright?¡±


    Dexter turned to look at her tiny face. ¡°Tll be quick. Wait for me.¡±


    He took the documents Josie had put by the bed before he left.


    She smiled.


    No matter the circumstance, punctuality was basic respect. Dexter was discourteous and dismissive of


    them. He was half an hourte.


    It wasn¡¯t unintentional. It was deliberate.


    Larry had a conflicted expression when he was forced to stay in the car in response to Dexter¡¯s request


    to bete.


    After all, he had an excellent track record since he was young. He had always been a straight-A


    student and valedictorian in high school and college. He was also student body president and captain


    of the debate team¡­


    But Dexter made himte.


    ¡°This is to make them lower their guard,¡± Dexter said as if he had no concept of time.


    The person in charge of the acquiring party wasn¡¯t a young man.


    Calvin handled all the formalities. When he shook the other party¡¯s hand, Dexter didn¡¯t even look at


    them.

 Chapter 496

    Chapter 496


    Chapter 496 Why Is She Doing It?


    Josiey on the bed for a while. The pain in her lower abdomen had gradually dissipated. She didn¡¯t


    think about it further and thought her code red was almost upon her.


    Laura video-called her and teased her. ¡°You have such a great rtionship with your husband. The


    entire circle knows how Mrs. Russell flew to London.¡±


    Josie blushed when she heard it on the other end of the screen. ¡°Laura, I¡¯m worried about him.¡±


    Laura shrugged. She was snuggled on a couch and looked very rxed. ¡°It must be nice. At least you


    have someone to worry about and look forward to. Just do what you want to.¡±


    Josie answered and told Laura that she had instructed Angel and Jade to handle work at the studio so


    Laura wouldn¡¯t worry. After that, Josie asked, ¡°Where are you? It doesn¡¯t look like Olsen Residence.


    Laura¡¯s surroundings looked unfamiliar.


    ¡°I¡¯m at Dr. Eric¡¯s office. Speaking about it, he¡¯ste today.¡± Eric Skipworth was the psychologist Josie


    had asked Matthew to introduce. Eric¡¯s waiting list just to make an appointment was three months long.


    Eric was only willing to ept Laura as a patient for Matthew¡¯s sake.


    ¡°It seems like he puts you at ease.¡± I have to properly thank Matthew after I return to Wavery. ¡°He¡­


    hasn¡¯t hit you again, has he? I mean Zach.¡±


    Laura acknowledged it silently.


    ¡°I have a bad premonition. Do you think Dexter can win this time?¡± Josie was still worried. After all,


    even Old Mr. Russell had been called into action. She didn¡¯t have the nerve to visit him beforeing


    because she was afraid to spook him.


    ¡°Why are you worried? He¡¯s Dexter Russell.¡± Laura was unconcerned, but she paused and was slightly


    hesitant. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m not sure. Russell Group has been criticized for many years and has attracted


    countless difficulties. It¡¯s unknown if they premeditated this to drag him down.¡±


    Josie was a lot more anxious after Laura said it. Her gaze fell on the documents Dexter had left. ¡°I


    suddenly thought of something¡­¡°


    She had bumped into Yanis and Wyatt when she went to visit Old Mr. Russell. They looked very


    secretive. Did this have something to do with them?


    But Old Mr. Russell would protect Dexter if he knew, and it wouldn¡¯t cause such a situation today.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Perhaps I¡¯m overthinking.¡±


    Since she didn¡¯t say anything, Laura thought of something. Laura suddenly realized and said, ¡°Most of


    the Olsen family¡¯s business is at the ports, and they have ess to foreign investment. Laura has been


    taking over her family affairs these days. Perhaps.. Never mind¡­. I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    Josie was baffled. She wanted to ask further, but at this time, a man in a big, white robe appeared


    behind Laura. Only his thin figure was seen, not his face. However, his veins protruded viciously on his


    hands, looking slightly peculiar


    He said. ¡°Ms. Brandel, we should start


    The voice sounded unfamiliar through the phone.


    Laura answered, then said to Josic, ¡°I¡¯m going to hang up.¡±


    The video call ended, and Josie was still lost in thought as she thought of what Laura had said. She


    opened herptop and searched for Summer¡¯s name. As expected, a news article popped up. ¡°The


    Olsen family¡¯s sessor has returned to the country to take over and manage their business.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Summer¡¯s photo was attached. She looked charming and gentle yet cunning.


    Thements said she seemed as elegant as her father, Mark.


    Josie searched for the various investments under the Olsen family. Eighty percent of it was rted to


    foreign investment.


    She covered her mouth with her hand as she looked at the information. Her breathing slowed. down.


    What if Summer wanted to devour Russell Group and leave Dexter with nothing? But why was she


    doing it?

 Chapter 497

    Chapter 497


    Chapter 497 Cervical Inmmation


    Josie was pondering when she felt a sudden sharp pain in her abdomen again. She was instantly in a


    cold sweat and cried out in pain.


    She tried to tolerate it, but the pain didn¡¯t decrease. In fact, the pain seemed to intensify. She gritted her


    teeth and struggled momentarily before searching for a nearby hospital. Thankfully, it wasn¡¯t very far


    away.


    Josieposed herself and decided to hail a cab there. She had just left her room when she bumped


    into a woman. The other party wasn¡¯t young and had an ordinary appearance. She was dressed inly,


    but her outfit was evidently haute couture. She had an impressive demeanor.


    Josic didn¡¯t notice and was about to walk past that woman when the woman said, ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡±


    It was twenty percent doubtful and eighty percent certain.


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°Do you know me?¡±


    The woman nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve seen you a few times at Calvin¡¯s ce. You¡¯re always with Dexter Russell.¡±


    The woman knew Calvin, so she must have been one of the more intimate members of Dexter¡¯s


    network.


    ¡°You are¡­¡±


    I¡¯m Mallory Whiteford, Calvin¡¯s girlfriend.¡±


    Josie seemed to have heard the name before. ¡°I¡¯m Josie Warren.¡± She paused. ¡°I have something


    urgent to deal with. Talk to you next time.¡±


    Mallory noticed Josie¡¯s cold sweat and asked, ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    ¡°Mm. My stomach hurts. It might be gastroenteritis.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send you there. I have nothing to do anyway. You¡¯ll feel more at ease with someone around.¡±


    Josie hesitated and thought that someone Calvin was close with must have been trustworthy, so Josie


    nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t so anxious with Mallory around.


    In the car, Josie was still worried about Dexter. She hesitated and sent Arnold a message. It was


    concise. ¡®Does it have anything to do with you?¡±


    There was no reply.


    Her hand holding the cell phone was sweating.


    At the hospital, the doctor heard Josie describe her symptoms and was quiet momentarily. ¡°Ms.


    Warren, 1 suggest you head to the gynecology department.¡±


    ¡°Gynecology department?¡±


    At the gynecology department.


    ¡°You¡¯re twenty-three days pregnant. The baby is lying inversely on your fallopian tube, which was


    After that, the doctor looked at the young woman before her. ¡°Are you married?¡±


    Josie was stunned on the spot. She asked in disbelief. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant?¡±


    The female doctor flipped through Josie¡¯s medical history and answered impatiently, ¡°Yes, only for


    twenty-three days. There are no clear signs of pregnancy yet. Thankfully, this was discovered early. If


    you had kept this child, it would have ultimately harmed you.¡±


    ¡°Cervical inmmation. It¡¯s an illness women suffer from. The doctor repeated, ¡°Miss, are you married?¡±


    Before Josie could even rejoice from the initial delight of being a mother, her hopes were dashed. Her


    eyes lost focus, and her gaze was detached. She nodded subconsciously and spoke without any


    emotion. ¡°Yes, but¡­¡±


    The female doctor¡¯s gaze instantly turned contemptuous when she heard Josie stammering. It seemed


    like amon urrence to her. ¡°How did you get married in such a state? Your personal health is in


    such a mess. Miss, is your husband with you?¡±


    Josie touched her abdomen. She didn¡¯t dare to imagine a child was in it.


    ¡°He¡­ he¡¯s busy,¡± Josie answered nkly. ¡°Can I keep this child?¡±


    ¡°Of course not! Do you want to die? Do you want a child so badly?¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    The fetus was only twenty-three days old.


    Not even a month. What kind of grave sin wasmitted? It wasn¡¯t even formed.


    Josie walked out in a daze with her prescription. Mallory was waiting for her on a bench and rose when


    she saw Josie. ¡°How was it?¡±

 Chapter 498

    Chapter 498


    Chapter 498 Did the Birth Control Pills Cause an Ectopic Pregnancy?


    Before she could answer, her cell phone vibrated. Arnold had replied. ¡®Yes.¡®


    He admitted it openly.


    Josie answered Mallory¡¯s question. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    Mallory raised her brows and was about to congratte Josie when Josie continued. ¡°It¡¯s an ectopic


    pregnancy. The doctor suggested that I abort it immediately.¡± D


    She saw Mallory¡¯s smile dim.


    ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°No. At least not for now. Dexter and Russell Group are at a critical juncture. I don¡¯t have the time to do


    such a thing.¡± D


    Josie answered decisively. She took her prescription to get some medicine and asked the doctor to


    prescribe temporary painkillers.


    Mallory followed Josie. ¡°Are you overthinking this? You should discuss this with Dexter. After all, he¡¯s


    the child¡¯s father.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know if this was a cruel joke on herself or fate. ¡°He doesn¡¯t have the time for me now. It¡¯s


    just a child that can¡¯t be born. It¡¯s not important.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but think. How will Dexter react if he finds out he has a child? Will he be happy or


    indifferent? But Dexter doesn¡¯t like children. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t make me take birth control. D


    She couldn¡¯t help but think¡­ Is it because the birth control pills harmed me and caused this ectopic


    pregnancy? She shouldn¡¯t have been overthinking at such a critical juncture. D


    Mallory caught up to Josie and cleared her throat. ¡°As an outsider, I shouldn¡¯tment, but he should


    at least know.¡±


    Josie took her medicine and forced a smile. ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll tell him.¡±


    However, Dexter¡¯s negotiations went on the whole day.


    The negotiation teams of both parties were neck and neck.


    Dexter oversaw the entire process. When faced with various funding representatives, he stood his


    ground. He even skillfully made an unrted joke.


    Countless prying gazes were on him.


    Capital never sleeps. Companies deteriorated every day, so no one found it strange. They wanted to


    see how Dexter would turn the situation around and shrewdly make aeback. Russell Group¡¯s


    survival depended on Dexter.


    During the break, the media quickly published articles. They said that Dexter had privately met with an


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    executive who had met with the same crisis and sessfully resolved it.


    On the other end, Larry deftly reported the current capital situation of Russell Group and foreign


    investors. ¡°Our restraint against Carter Group was useless. There must be someone behind Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Investigate,¡± Dexter spoke sinctly..


    Larry didn¡¯t sense too much of a crisis. It seemed like nothing terrible would happen as long as Dexter


    stood firm. O


    Dexter rubbed his eyes for the third time. He didn¡¯t look worried. On the other end, Calvin was


    perceptive. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your eyes?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s tall and slender figure walked forward, and he said, ¡°Ignore me.¡±


    His eyelids had been twitching the whole day, and it upset him. He wanted to lose his temper for no


    reason, as though something had happened¡­


    Calvin handed him a cell phone. ¡°Call her. Since she¡¯s here, she¡¯s clearly worried about you.¡±


    Dexter had his first genuineugh in twenty¨Cfour hours but didn¡¯t take the cell phone. ¡°It¡¯s alright. She¡¯ll


    be more worried if I call her. I¡¯ll talk to her when it¡¯s done¡±


    ¡°Have you fallen in love with her?¡± Calvin said half¨Cjokingly in an amazed tone.


    Dexter continued walking forward, and he seemed to have rxed slightly. ¡°Indeed. An unmarried


    person like you won¡¯t understand.¡±


    The corners of Calvin¡¯s mouth twitched. He questioned why he had toe thousands of miles to


    listen to Dexter brag.

 Chapter 499

    Chapter 499


    Chapter 499 Proiming Mrs Russell¡¯s Presence


    Josie¡¯s abdomen pain decreased a lot after taking medicine. Still, she couldn¡¯t eat or sleep well


    because she was worried about Russell Group.


    The Inte connection in the hotel room was poor, so she went to a caf¨¦ in the hotel with herptop


    and stared at the market situation. That way, she would know how Dexter was doing. She was afraid it


    wasn¡¯t going well.


    ¡°Baby, can you hear me?¡± Josie stroked her abdomen and said softly. ¡°Your Daddy is now experiencing


    tough times. Let¡¯s watch him get through this time without mishaps, alright?¡±


    ¡°If¡­ if there¡¯s another life, you have toe back to Mommy,¡± Josie said with a gentle expression.


    At this time, a figure came into her view. She was surprised to see Heather, the woman who had


    entered Dexter¡¯s room yesterday and was also Arnold¡¯s assistant.


    Heather¡¯s voice rang. ¡°I understand, Mr. Carter. I¡¯ll do it!


    Heather also saw Josie. Josie looked straight at her, and Heather couldn¡¯t avoid her gaze.


    Heather nodded slightly and was just about to leave when Josie stopped her. ¡°Wait a moment, Ms.


    Riley.¡± Heather stood still, and her pitch¨Cck eyes were listless. ¡°Ms. Warren.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know who I am? Why don¡¯t you call me ¡®Mrs. Russell¡®?¡± Josie unted her identity again.


    She felt that Heather wasn¡¯t a big fan of hers.


    ¡°Mr. Russell doesn¡¯t like outsiders to advertise Mrs. Russell¡¯s presence in public, so I didn¡¯t.¡± Her


    actions and words showed how much she understood Dexter.


    Josie wasn¡¯t angry. ¡°Have a seat.¡±


    ¡°I have something to do.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°I said, have a seat.¡±


    Heather was slightly astonished. She never thought Josie could imitate Dexter¡¯s calm and assertive


    demeanor so well. Heather pulled a chair and sat down.


    ¡°Excuse me for asking, but what is your family background like, Ms. Riley?¡± Josie ordered an


    Americano and put it before Heather.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been an orphan since I was young and grew up in an orphanage. I made it through high school


    and college thanks to Carter Group¡¯s financial aid. So I guess my family background isn¡¯t great,¡±


    Heather answered calmly.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite grateful, Ms. Riley. Did you be Arnold¡¯s assistant right after graduating?¡± She was


    snide. ¡°I see that the bracelet on your wrist is quite invaluable!


    Heather nodded. ¡°I owe my life to Mr. Carter.¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°So you¡¯ll do whatever he asks you to,¡± Josie said softly, ¡°you don¡¯t have to avoid it. Arnold told me that


    this issue with Russell Group has something to do with him. So you came to the United Kingdom to do


    work


    for him.¡±


    1/2


    ¡°You know everything.¡±


    ¡°But I want to know where the huge funding behind Carter Group came from. He created such a


    situation with just a slip¨Cup in the project. Can you tell me, Ms. Riley?¡± Josie leaned forward slightly,


    and the ne around her neck dangled mid¨Cair.


    Heather imitated her demeanor and smiled. ¡°I¡¯m only Mr. Carter¡¯s secretary. I don¡¯t know anything


    about


    this.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess. Is it the Olsen family?¡°,


    Heather¡¯s smile froze as she had never thought Josie would guess so quickly.


    ¡°Summer?¡±


    Heather was dumbstruck.


    Josie knew the answer when she asked. She had just wanted to confirm it.


    Heather looked down at her cell phone as she was being questioned. She saw something and seemed


    to breathe a sigh of relief. She answered Josie, ¡°Your guess is correct. The Olsen family is making a


    move against Russell Group. They¡¯re pouring huge sums of funding into Russell Group¡¯s stocks. As far


    as I know, this situation won¡¯t improve soon.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression changed slightly.

 Chapter 500

    Chapter 500


    Chapter 500 Russell Group¡¯s Biggest Crisis


    Russell Group¡¯s operations were massive. They wouldn¡¯t be ruined just because of project problems.


    What troubled Dexter was the enormous sum Carter Group and the Olsen family had jointly poured into


    the funding market. It was two different families. They were really going all out against Dexter.


    Josie understood why Dexter didn¡¯t contact her. He would get distracted.


    Before leaving, Heather said, ¡°If Russell Group loses this battle¡­ You can imagine the consequences,


    Mrs.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Russell.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. She couldn¡¯t imagine what it would be like if Dexter was defeated.


    He wasn¡¯t a proud person, and he didn¡¯t deserve to fall from grace.


    Heather left, and Josie felt anxious.


    Does Dexter know that the Olsen family is making a move against him?


    Josie sat on the spot and researched Russell Group¡¯s current situation for a long time.


    Russell Group was on its own, and Dexter faced open and brazen pressure from all sides. This might


    have been the most significant crisis Russell Group had met since they were established!


    Dexter kept watch in the United Kingdom for over two days, and his schedule wasn¡¯t publicly


    announced. The reporters secretly took pictures of him looking haggard.


    Josie stared at the photos and felt fiercely distressed.


    She knew nothing about what Dexter dealt with but knew it was a fantasy world, and Dexter was


    undoubtedly the king.


    But today¡­ the king might be dethroned.


    Josie collected various information about Russell Group¡¯s predicament. She looked at it the whole night


    and forcefully made herself understand part of it.


    She massaged the bridge of her nose lightly. You¡¯re really making me worry, Dexter Russell¡­


    The sun rose, and Josie knocked on Mallory¡¯s door. ¡°I can¡¯t wait. I have to go to where they are. I want


    to see him.¡±


    Mallory was surprised yet stayed rational. ¡°You won¡¯t be of any help even if you go.¡±


    ¡°I have to personally tell him that the Olsen family is involved. They might not even know who their


    enemy is. I must go.¡± Josie was determined. ¡°Calvin has a reckless personality. He must have brought


    you along because you¡¯re important, so you should know where they are now, right?¡±


    -The woman¡¯s discernment made Mallory¡¯s eyes light up. She took a deep breath before entering the


    room


    and taking her bag. ¡°I¡¯lle with you.¡±


    It was the morning rush hour in London, and traffic was terrible. The driver was friendly and spoke in


    his British ent. ¡°The financial conference center isn¡¯t very peaceful recently. I only lost a few shares.


    Are you employees? Why don¡¯t you tell me about the current market situation.¡±


    The scenery outside the window changed. Josie and Mallory looked at each other. ¡°We¡¯re tourists, and


    <


    1/2


    we¡¯re just sightseeing.¡±


    The driver said, ¡°Oh,¡± and stopped asking.


    Josie was lost in thought as she looked at the traffic outside. She was clueless and would always


    inconvenience him wherever she went, but she wanted to look and see how he was doing before she


    felt at ease.


    The driver¡¯s cell phone rang as they were about to drive off the elevated road. He took his cell phone


    from his pocket and smiled at his passengers. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s a call from my wife.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. You can go ahead.¡± Josie saw how happy he looked. He must love his wife deeply.


    The driver answered the call as he drove with one hand on the steering wheel.


    They were justing off the elevated road, and traffic was all around them. The sounds of car horns


    were incessant. Before Josie came to her senses, she heard a shriek beside her.


    A car in front was rushing straight at them. Surprised, the driver threw his cell phone to the side, but it


    was toote.


    ¡®Crash!

 Chapter 501

    Chapter 501


    Chapter 501 High Fever


    Josie mmed into something sharp. She saw blood before her eyes and felt a throbbing pain in her


    head. She felt like she was about to copse and panicked. No! I can¡¯t get hurt now. I have important


    things to settle.


    However, she soon cked out.


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    Meanwhile, Dexter¡¯s subordinate received urgent news at a financial institution.


    ¡°This is thetest news. Carter Group increased the amount of capital.¡± The subordinate stood before


    theputer and appeared anxious as he walked to Dexter. ¡°Based on our past estimate, Carter


    Group would never be able to fork out such a high sum unless he had secret support. Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Dexter stood before the floor¨Cto¨Cceiling window and looked at the skyscrapers in the distance. He


    already had a n in mind.


    Calvin nafrowed his eyes. ¡°Could it be the Olsen family¡±


    Larry added, ¡°It will be difficult to top that amount even if we were to gather all our avable funds.


    Moreover, with the ongoing credibility issue, no banks will be willing to loan us money. It¡¯s a dead


    end¡­¡±


    All their funds came from thepany or Dexter¡¯s private fund. Even if they were to offer all they had,


    it would still be in vain.


    ¡°Dex, you must decide carefully from this point on.¡± Calvin was discouraged after the pressure and


    stress of the past few days.


    ¡°Give me the phone,¡± Dexter said suddenly. His expression was tense.


    Larry immediately handed it to him. He unlocked the screen and was surprised that Elisa had not called


    yet. Perhaps she did not want to disturb him.


    He scrolled down the call log quickly and called a number. Everyone waited with bated breath.


    The call got through, and a gruff male voice sounded, ¡°Dexter, it¡¯ste. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was grim, but his voice sounded amicable. ¡°Mr. Olsen, if I¡¯m not mistaken, we


    agreed to cooperate. Why did you suddenly backstab me?¡±


    His friendly tone carried an unmistakable hint of threat. Even Mark could not help but shudder as he


    listened.


    ¡°Dexter, I don¡¯t understand what you mean.¡±


    Dexter replied immediately, ¡°Mr. Olsen, you¡¯ve got to be kidding me.¡±


    The other end fell silent. It seemed Markmunicated something with his secretary. When he finally


    spoke, his tone was slow and deliberate, brimming with the tricks of a cunning businessman. ¡°It was


    only an expression of interest, and there was never any formal agreement. Dexter, you¡¯re too rash.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like you¡¯re trying to burn your bridges, Mr. Olsen.¡± Gareth pursed his lips and continued,


    ¡°Anyway, you¡¯re wrong. I wouldn¡¯t have allowed the Olsen family to turn their situation around if I was


    rash. What do you think?¡±


    |||


    1/2


    Dexter rarely brought up the past. Thus, Mark was taken aback by Dexter¡¯s remark. It was his first time


    hearing Dexter talking about it. He replied solemnly, ¡°Wait for a moment.¡±


    Three minutes after Mark hung up, Calvin asked curiously, ¡°What is he up to?¡±


    Dexter did not respond but asked Larry, ¡°Have you resolved the issue at the construction?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve reported it. Although the supervisor was angry, he agreed to let uspensate for it because


    we¡¯ve been behaving well.¡±


    ¡°Minimize the impact of the issue as much as possible within half a month and make sure the public


    never finds out that Russell Group is on the verge of copse.¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Dexter looked down at the phone in his hand. The screen suddenly lit up with a call from Mark.


    However, Dexter did not answer it. He allowed it to continue ringing for forty seconds before the phone


    went silent. Calvin asked anxiously, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you answer it?¡±


    ¡°He will call again.¡±


    Calvin had nothing to say.


    As Dexter predicted, the phone rang again ten secondster. He answered it this time.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°Dexter, Summer is severely ill with a high fever. I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t give you an answer,¡± Mark said


    simply and briefly.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes.

 Chapter 502

    Chapter 502


    Chapter 502 No Other Options


    Dexter was intelligent. Of course, he knew what Mark meant.


    It was an excuse to oppress Dexter.


    Since the Olsen family dragged personal feelings into business, Summer¡¯s fever was not what it


    seemed. Since Dexter did not respond, Mark continued slowly, ¡°I know you¡¯re anxious, but we cannot


    afford any dy with Summer¡¯s current condition. I believe you understand what you should do right


    now.¡±


    Mark hung up.


    Calvin threw the documents on the floor in his fury. ¡°That sly old fox! He is forcing your hands. Dex,


    must not go. It¡¯s a trap.¡±


    you


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was stern as he looked at the vast night scenery outside the window. ¡°Since they are


    waiting to see what I will do, I¡¯ll give them a good show. Arrange a flight for me tonight. Make sure no


    one finds out where I¡¯m going.¡±


    He would go and show concern for the severely ill Summer. That was what the Olsen family wanted to


    see. Thus, he was willing to act it out if it meant getting the Olsen family to cancel their investment in


    Carter Group.


    Calvin grabbed Dexter¡¯s arm and looked at him solemnly. ¡°Are you sure you should do this? Josie will


    be disappointed if she finds out.¡±


    Dexter was briefly stunned. ¡°That¡¯s why no one should know where I¡¯m going.¡±


    ¡°Dex!¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t have an option.¡± Dexter enunciated each word.


    Calvin slowly let go of him.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    The ne flew straight to Wavery. After itnded, Dexter got off and headed straight to Olsen


    Residence.


    Once they entered the Olsen Residencepound, Dexter noticed a Bentley traveling past them in the


    rearview mirror. It looked somewhat familiar.


    By now, Summer¡¯s fever had subsided. She was resting when Dexter walked in dressed entirely in


    ck. The sight surprised her, and she tried to sit up. ¡°Dex, you¡¯re here. Weren¡¯t you in the United


    Kingdom?¡± Dexter smiled warmly and touched her forehead. ¡°Hmm, your fever has subsided.¡±


    Summer could not believe he was right before her eyes. ¡°Did¡­ you travel all the way to see me?¡± Larry


    replied, ¡°Mr. Russell instructed me to book the flight tickets as soon as he heard the news.¡± Summer


    blushed slightly. She looked into Dexter¡¯s eyes and felt warmed by his gesture.


    Then, Dexter asked about her condition. He did not mention work matters but held her hand and said


    kindly, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving tomorrow. You should get some rest.¡±


    He left her room after that. The intimidating aura he suppressed while meeting Summer shrouded his


    1/2


    whole being. Mark was waiting for him in the study.


    On the other hand, Summer was like a child being dotted on. She smiled happily and quietly took out


    her phone to photograph Dexter¡¯s back as he left.


    The man in her photo wore a ck jacket. He was eye¨Ccatching with his tall form and broad shoulders.


    One could easily identify him from the image.


    Summer was truly surprised that he hade. Dexter was rational and would not let emotions


    influence his decisions. Yet, he came to see her,


    Meanwhile, conniving men stood across each other in the study. Mark narrowed his eyes. ¡°Dexter,


    Russell Group wouldn¡¯t have gotten into trouble if you had done this sooner.¡±


    Dexter was unfazed. His smile did not meet his eyes. ¡°assume it wasn¡¯t you who decided to help Carter


    Group.¡±


    Mark was impressed by Dexter¡¯s astuteness and nodded. Then, he sat down with a sigh and said, ¡°You


    would have achieved great things if you were my son. Unfortunately, you¡¯re not, and my son is useless.


    Only my daughter is fit to inherit my position.¡±


    Dexter sat down opposite him. ¡°She is not fit either.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie has been undergoing surgery for four hours in a hospital in the United Kingdom.


    Mallory waited outside the surgery room alone.


    Josie¡¯s father was in Wavery, so Dexter was her only family member in the United Kingdom.


    Unfortunately, he was not here.


    Mallory had no choice but to sign all the forms a family member should have signed. Her eyes were


    slightly red, and her hand would not stop shaking whenever she signed. She started to regret


    apanying Josie to the United Kingdom to look for Dexter.

 Chapter 503

    Chapter 503


    Chapter 503 He Must Not Know


    The car¡¯s airbag burst out of thepartment, causing Josie severe injuries. The doctor had no choice


    but to terminate her pregnancy immediately


    The surgery wasplicated. Worst, Josie suffered severe bleeding in the middle of the operation.


    Mallory gripped the doctor¡¯s hand and pleaded, ¡°Please, doctor. You must save her. Money is not an


    issue!¡±


    The doctor rushed into the surgery room. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best!¡±


    Mallory stood still in a daze and wiped her tears. She had called Calvin for the first time in the recent


    few days, but it went unanswered.


    She felt overwhelmed with too many things that had happened tonight.


    Meanwhile, Dexter and Mark negotiated for a long time but could not reach an agreement.


    Mark remained firm in his stance. ¡°Dexter, I want you to divorce your wife and marry Summer. You


    know. I¡¯ve always preferred you over Arnold. If you agree, everything will be yours. Even the Olsen


    family will be yours.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Josie and Mallory, someone also came to London.


    Xanthe was there. The person she sent to observe Josie arrived and reported that Josie got into a car


    ident on her way to the financial center. The airbag severely injured her, and she was still in surgery.


    Xanthe stood up in surprise. Then, she collected herself and asked, ¡°Dexter has gone to Olsen


    Residence. What¡¯s the situation there?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Olsen has been in love with Mr. Russell for many years. They will probably force him to marry


    her¡­¡±


    ¡°I understand¡­. He mustn¡¯t know what happened to her no matter what, at least not today! Do you


    understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Ms. Quorn.


    It waste at night. Mallory drove so speedily that she nearly crashed into another car. She opened the


    window and apologized to the other car¡¯s driver, allowing the wind to blow and mess up her hair. ¡°Sorry.


    I¡¯m truly sorry. I was rushing because of an urgent matter¡­.¡±


    The driver was stunned and could not help but feelpassion for a crying, beautiful woman. ¡°You


    mustn¡¯t drive so fast even though you¡¯re in a rush.¡±


    The financial center was brightly lit even at this hour. Mallory wanted to go in, but someone stopped


    her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss. Can you show me your work identification?¡±


    ¡°I have an urgent matter. Do you know Dexter Russell? I must see him!¡±


    The receptionist thought she was a troublemaker. Tm sorry. That¡¯s not possible.¡±


    It was three in the morning. Mallory stood downstairs and waited for a chance to see Dexter. Suddenly,


    the nurse called her. ¡°Ms. Whiteford, your friend¡¯s surgery is a sess, and we have moved her to the


    ICU. She will be fine if she wakes up,¡±


    Mallory breathed a sigh of relief. She looked up and shouted in public for the first time. ¡°Calvin! Answer


    your phone!


    Her loud voice attracted much attention. The receptionist rushed to her immediately. ¡°Miss, you can¡¯t


    shout here¡¯


    However, Mallory did not care. She dodged the receptionist and kept shouting ¡°Calvin!¡±


    She refused to stop despite knowing the people upstairs could not hear her.


    Mallory bit her lip. She had been crying all night, so her eyes were red and puffy.


    ¡°Miss


    Themotion attracted spectators. A man in a suit came out from the building and rushed over when


    he heard noises. He was shocked to see Mallory. ¡°Ms. Whiteford!¡±


    ¡°You work for Dexter!¡± Mallory was so relieved that she cried.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Mallory grabbed his hand as if clinging to a lifeline. ¡°Where is Dexter?¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The man had a bad premonition when he saw the desperation in her eyes. ¡°What happened?¡±


    He brought Mallory to the thirty-second floor.


    ¡°A car crash?¡±


    Calvin was pouring a ss of water for Mallory. His hands shook slightly. The hot water spilled onto the


    back of his hand, leaving a red patch. ¡°Are you all right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. My seat was in the blind spot. However, Josie bore the brunt of it. She has juste out of


    the surgery and is in a severe condition.¡±


    ¡°She only found out about her ectopic pregnancy two days ago. Now, the doctor had no choice but to


    terminate it.¡±

 Chapter 504

    Chapter 504


    Chapter 504 Hiding the Truth


    Calvin¡¯s gaze turned conflicted. He turned around after hearing Mallory and pulled out his phone to


    make a call.


    No one answered.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t answer?¡±


    ¡°Mallory, Dexter is dealing with an urgent matter. We mustn¡¯t disturb him.¡±


    ¡°Is Elisa¡¯s situation not urgent?¡± Mallory looked at him in disbelief.


    Calvin pondered and seemed conflicted. However, he chose to hide the truth. ¡°You said that her


    surgery was a sess. That means she will be fine. We can afford to wait a little.¡±


    ¡°Calvin!¡± Mallory red at him. ¡°How could you say this? Don¡¯t you know she nearly died?¡±


    ¡°I know!¡± Calvin gripped her arm and continued urgently, ¡°But I also know Dexter¡¯s matter involves the


    livelihood of tens of thousands of employees.¡±


    Mallory sneered angrily upon hearing him. She struggled to break free of his grip. ¡°Are you saying you


    won¡¯t tell Dexter?¡±


    Calvin looked away before replying, ¡°He cares too much about Josie. It will mess up his focus if he fin


    out about it. We need to wait until the crisis is resolved


    ¡°What about you? Do you also think the same?¡± Mallory turned to the subordinate dejectedly.


    ¡°I¡­ Ms. Whiteford, what Mr. Barrett said is not unreasonable¡­¡± The subordinate hesitated before


    gritting his teeth and continued, ¡°I will go to the hospital now and arrange for the best treatment for Mrs.


    Russell.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary!¡± Mallory got up angrily to leave. She suddenly recalled something and


    paused, standing with her back facing Calvin. ¡°If I get into an ident, will you do the same to me?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to make such an assumption.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Mallory left without another word.


    ¡°You¡¯re not chasing her?¡±


    ¡°Forget it¡­ It¡¯s not the right time. Calvin stared in the direction she left for a long time before looking


    away. Then, he called Dexter¡¯s office in Wavery.


    ¡°Mr. Russell came to the officest night but had already boarded the flight to return to the United


    Kingdom. Based on my estimation, the ne had just taken off.


    There was a sense of finality in his tone.


    Thankfully, the doctor¡¯s concern that Josie might not regain consciousness was unfounded. She woke


    up the following day. The lead doctor sighed in relief and told Mallory, ¡°She has a strong will to live. It¡¯s


    good that she doesn¡¯t lose hope.¡±


    Mallory felt conflicted. She guessed what gave Josie the strong will to survive.


    Josie was transferred to the general ward and needed to recuperate for a long time. Shey in bed,


    looking


    weak and broken.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that? I¡¯m fine. I would have to terminate my pregnancy eventually. I


    was already mentally prepared for it. Don¡¯t worry about me: Josie squeezed out a smile. ¡°By the way,


    how is the situation at the financial center?¡±


    Mallory held Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°You should rest first. We can talk about this another time.¡±


    Josie had an oxygen mask over her face. Vapors formed on the clear mask surface whenever she


    breathed. She shook her head with difficulty. ¡°You can tell me. How¡¯s the situation with Russell Group?¡±


    Mallory stood at the side and could not help but look away to mask her sadness.


    ¡°Mallory¡­


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing. How could anything happen to Dexter? You know how cunning he is. How can anyone


    do anything to him? Don¡¯t worry.¡± Mallory did not dare to meet Josie¡¯s gaze.


    Josie was exhausted, but she could only rest with ease after hearing Mallory¡¯s words.


    Nothing seemed to happen for the next few days.

 Chapter 505

    Chapter 505


    Chapter 505 Photograph


    Once the effects of the medication wore off. Josie felt pain from deep in her bones, waking her from her


    sleep.


    She was severely injured in a car ident and underwent surgery to remove an ectopic pregnancy.


    Yet, Dexter did not show up. Has he not been informed? Or does he know but doesn¡¯t wish to see me?


    The realization felt more painful than anything she had experienced.


    Mallory refused to let her use anymunication device. It was because reporters took photos of


    Dexter leaving Olsen Residence. The images showed a man dressed in ck clothes and Larry behind


    him, quietly leaving the ce.


    The photos were published with a shocking title. ¡®Dexter Russell flew to Wavery despite Russell Group


    in crisis just to visit a feverish Ms. Olsen?¡±


    However, Mallory underestimated Josie¡¯s astuteness. Her precautions allowed Josie to guess that


    something was wrong.


    Once her condition improved, Josie waited until Mallory left the ward to search for her phone and


    charge


    1.


    The phone vibrated non-stop the moment she turned it on. Various apps sent her notifications of the


    news. Moreover, someone sent her a photo.


    Josie opened it without thinking.


    What she saw stunned her for a while before she could recover her thoughts.


    The photo showed a room. Judging from the decorations, it was a woman¡¯s room. Furthermore, it


    showed Dexter had turned around to leave. He seemed in a hurry.


    Summer was an intelligent person. She knew she did not have to say anything. All she needed was a


    photo to strike Josie with a severe blow.


    The photo was taken on the same day as Josie¡¯s ident


    Then, she scrolled down the news. Her hands shook as she read them.


    The news spected that Dexter and Summer would get married soon.


    Suddenly, Josie felt like a fool. She fought so hard to survive, only to be rewarded with this.


    ¡°She survived?¡± Xanthe sounded astonished.


    The person reporting to her hesitated briefly before continuing, ¡°Yes, she survived, but¡­ she had


    surgery to remove an ectopic pregnancy. Currently, she is weak and has to recuperate in the hospital


    for a long time.


    Xanthe did not n to kill her because she did not want Josie to die so easily. After all, Josie and


    Dexter had not divorced. If she died, Dexter would be known as the man who failed to protect his wife.


    It would tarnish his reputation.


    At the moment, rumors about Dexter and Summer¡¯s potential marriage were rampant. Moreover, the


    crisis involving Russell Group remained unresolved. Dexter was so busy dealing with all these matters


    in London that he did not have time for anything else.


    Since the matter hade to this, Xanthe could not allow Josie to remain in her position for long.


    Meanwhile, Mallory noticed drastic changes in Josie¡¯s behavior. She stopped asking about Russell


    Group and stared out the window most of the time.


    Mallory tried to bring up the matter a few times but could never gather the courage to say anything.


    Today, Xanthe brought a group of people to Josie¡¯s ward. It was not apparent what she was up to this


    time.


    Her bodyguard pushed a man to stand before Josie¡¯s bed. The man had a cast on his arm. He kneeled


    and apologized, ¡°Mrs. Russell, I¡¯m sorry. It was my fault. I shouldn¡¯t have answered a call while driving


    and caused you to be injured. I¡­ I deserve to die¡­.


    Josie realized the man was the taxi driver from that day.


    She frowned and wanted to help him to stand up. However, she could not get up from her bed.


    One of the bodyguards stepped forward and raised her hospital bed so that she could see more clearly.


    Josie instantly noticed Xanthe standing at the side.


    Is it her? She¡¯s also in the United Kingdom.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Xanthe smiled and said gently, ¡°I found the culprit for you. You can punish him any way you want.


    Josie was unmoved and replied indifferently, ¡°Let him go.¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s expression changed. She narrowed her eyes and said, ¡°He nearly killed you.¡±


    Josie looked down and adjusted her quilt. She was not surprised that Xanthe showed up in her ward.


    ¡°I permitted him to answer the call. Therefore, I¡¯m partially at fault for this ident. I have no reason to


    punish him.


    The man was only a taxi driver, and his family relied on him for their livelihood. Josie did not want


    anyone to suffer on her ount.

 Chapter 506

    Chapter 506


    Chapter 506 Only She Can Save Him


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Xanthe was surprised that Josie was willing to show mercy to him.


    Then, she gestured to the bodyguards to bring the taxi driver away. Suddenly, she and Josie were the


    only ones in the ward. They looked at each other in silence.


    Sunlight filtered through the ss window and shone on the floor. Xanthe ced the document on the


    table before reaching up to adjust the IV drip and slow its flow rate.


    Then, she sat down and got straight to the point. ¡°Russell Group has capital issues, and Dexter injected


    much of his personal fund into it. A foreign investor chose to offer an olive branch this moment, hoping


    to invest in Russell Group and obtain shares worth hundreds of millions from him.¡±


    Josie listened to her and only understood partially. She asked indifferently. ¡°What¡¯s your point?¡±


    Xanthe was surprised by how callous Josie was and raised her voice, ¡°Dexter must marry Summer to


    solve this crisis.¡±


    Therefore, you must step down.


    ¡°I would have understood sooner if you had said this in the first ce.¡± Josieughed with self-derision.


    Xanthe observed the fragile woman before her. She seemed unaffected despite her recent car


    ident. Instead, there was an unshakeable sense of calmness about her.


    It was Xanthe¡¯s first time regarding Josie closely. She toned down her authoritativeness and said


    gently, ¡°I might have admired you if I didn¡¯t meet you through Dexter.


    Those words shattered Josie¡¯s self-restraint. She narrowed her eyes and said, ¡°You don¡¯t care about a


    woman¡¯s character. Instead, it¡¯s her wealth that you look at. Am I right?¡±


    Xanthe furrowed her brow.


    ¡°You worded everything nicely, but you look down on me because of my family background. In other


    words, if Summer is lying here in my ce, you would not have agreed to let her marry Dexter.¡±


    Josie had long realized this and was tired of feigning ignorance.


    Strangely, Xanthe was not troubled. She smirked slightly and replied, ¡°Dexter is not someone an


    ordinary person can hope to marry!¡±


    ¡°You never asked what Dexter thinks. Instead, all you care about is what he looks in others¡¯ eyes. I pity


    him for having such a power-hungry mother.¡± Josie paused briefly and continued, ¡°A mother who


    abandoned him when he was little and returned once he was reputable to leech off him!¡±


    Xanthe clenched and unfurled her hands a few times. She smiled and swallowed her fury. ¡°I didn¡¯t


    come here to quarrel with you.¡±


    She pulled out a newspaper from her briefcase. The headline news was about Russell Group¡¯s recent


    situation. It had a photo attached, showing Dexter leaving the scene urgently.


    Xanthe showed the newspaper to Josie and pointed at the news. The whole business world knows


    about Russell Group¡¯s crisis. An analyst predicts Russell Group will lose everything if Dexter can¡¯t turn


    things around. His drastic actions in recent years created many enemies. They are all waiting to strike


    Russell Group with a fatal blow.¡±


    Josie did not want to look at the news, but she could not resist reading the whole thing.


    Dexter¡¯s situation was worse than she expected.


    His burden was far more than one could imagine ever since he took charge of Russell Group. He was


    envied and targeted by numerous enemies. Therefore, he could not afford any mistakes at every step.


    Xanthe put down the newspaper gently. ¡®Russell Group is the umtion of hard work of several


    generations of the Russell family. Thus, necessary sacrifices must be made in this critical period to


    protect Russell Group and Dexter.


    Josie knew what Xanthe was talking about. Those ¡®necessary sacrifices¡¯ included herself.


    Xanthe tentatively tightened her grip on Josie¡¯s hand. Since Josie remained silent, Xanthe continued, ¡°I


    know it is unfair to you, but fairness does not exist from the moment you marry him. I know you feel sad


    and wronged, but we have no choice.¡±


    ¡°Summer is the only person who can save him now. Do you understand?¡±

 Chapter 507

    Chapter 507


    Chapter 507 I Need Time to Consider It


    Who knew marriage was a tradablemodity in the sperite world?


    Josie took a deep breath and observed Xanthe closely Does Dester know about thi


    Xanthe looked away upon hearing her. I decided on my own, but if you sign this divorce document, in


    sure he will also sign it¡±


    Hearing het, Josie understood that Dexter did not know what happened to her


    She felt a slight relief and pondered in silence for a while.


    Xanthe thought Josie was swayed and continued. ¡°Was it ectopic pregnancy!¡±


    ¡°This condition is harmful to a woman¡¯s body. Since you have undergone surgery, there¡¯s no point


    grieving over it. After all, you¡¯re still young. You can have children again after you recover¡± Xanthe


    appearedpassionate yet rational. ¡°I heard you opened a studio in Wavery. When the timees, I


    will provide some resources from my project to assist you. That way, you can live the same lifestyle as


    during your marriage. You won¡¯t have to worry about money.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mouth curved into a mocking smile as she listened to Xanthe¡¯s enticing offers. ¡°Ms. Quorn,


    when we met at Mandarin Oriental Hotel, you advised me to have children to bind Dexter to me. That


    wasn¡¯t too long ago. Why did you change your mind?¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s expression darkened. That was in the past. The situation has changed.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it has changed. News about Summer preparing to take over the Olsen family business causes


    many people to panic. Even you are one of them.¡±


    She must have thought to please her future daughter-inw in advance so she would not have to tip-


    toe around her son. That way, she could get anything she wanted.


    Xanthe avoided Josie¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Ms. Quorn, what you say to me now is no different from what Summer told me. It seems you two are


    doing everything to make me divorce Dexter,¡±


    Xanthe was running out of patience.


    Before she could say anything, Josie said with much difficulty, ¡°Since that is the case, give the


    documents to me. I¡¯ll think about it.¡±


    Xanthe was stunned. She did not expect to convince Josie so quickly and thought she needed much


    effort. She even readied the bodyguards to force Josie to sign the papers.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you at least give me a few days to consider?¡± Josie smiled bitterly.


    Xanthe thought it was a reasonable request and opened her briefcase. Then, she gave Josie a stack of


    documents and stuffed a pen into her hand.


    Therge front heading Divorce Agreement¡¯ looked incredibly annoying to Josie.


    She did not read the conditions closely but assumed it stipted that she would get any settlement


    from


    I Need Time to Consider It


    the divorce. She quickly flipped to the final page and said solemnly, ¡°You should leave.¡±


    Xanthe stood up and looked down at Josie. ¡°You should decide as soon as possible. That¡¯s the best for


    everyone.¡±


    Josie gripped the documents and wondered. If Dexter needs me to leave him to get out of this crisis,


    am I willing to give up my position?


    She closed her eyes. ¡°Please leave. I need to rest.¡±


    Xanthe snorted coldly and quickly left the ward.


    Mallory returned from outside and bumped into Xanthe, who was leaving. The two exchanged nces.


    Suddenly, Mallory snorted and said, ¡°Who knew an upper-ssdy would stoop so low as to pressure


    a severely injured patient? I wonder what the public would say if they knew this.¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    However, Xanthe was arrogant, thinking that she had a trump card. ¡°Mind your own business.¡±


    Mallory did not reply but watched Xanthe and her entourage leave. Then, she rushed to Josie¡¯s ward


    and saw her sitting on the bed, solemnly looking out the window.


    Mallory half kneeled before Josie. ¡°Are you okay? Did she do anything to you?¡±


    __The sunlight red, making Josie¡¯s eyes appear clear as crystals. She replied softly, ¡°She wanted


    me to


    divorce him.¡±


    Mallory was stunned with disbelief. ¡°Did you agree?¡±


    Josic pointed to the divorce agreement at the side. ¡°I said I will consider it.¡±

 Chapter 508

    Chapter 508


    Chapter 508 Return to Wavery


    Dexter¡¯s eyelids would not stop throbbing after a trip back to Wavery. He nearly lost his temper as the


    throbbing persisted throughout the meeting.


    He sensed that something terrible had happened.


    Dexter rubbed his brow and finally could not stand the feeling anymore. He shut hisptop and said,


    ¡°Go check on my wife and see if anything happened to her.¡±


    Larry was surprised by the instruction and whispered, ¡°But sir, didn¡¯t you say¡­


    A pair of sharp eyes suddenly focused on Larry, silencing him immediately.


    He recalled what Dexter had said when he mentioned Josie on the ne. I will attract danger to her if I


    get too close. I must endure it for the sake of her future.


    Larry was stunned and did not expect Dexter to care about Josie so deeply that he considered her


    future.


    The Olsen family would not give up easily. Josie would never be safe once they set their sights on her.


    Moreover, Dexter could not protect herpletely with Russell Group in crisis.


    Larry rushed out of the meeting room and happened to see Calvin. Calvin asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why


    the Tush? Did he tell you to do something?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell is worried about his wife and asked me to check on her.¡±


    Calvin was surprised and nced into the meeting room. Then, he turned solemn and pulle


    side. ¡°I¡¯ve already gone to see her when you returned to Wavery. She is safe and sound in the worrying


    about us.¡±


    Larry was confused. ¡°You went to see her?¡±


    Calvin pursed his lips and nodded. ¡°You don¡¯t have to check on her anymore. Go back to Dexter and


    inform him as I say so that he can focus on work. Also, have youpleted all your tasks?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°You should deal with them promptly.¡±


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Larry nodded and was still puzzled. However, he did not find anything strange.


    Josie stayed in the hospital for a few days and recovered slightly. She felt guilty that Mallory had to take


    care of her daily in the hospital.


    ¡°Mallory,¡± Josie began softly. ¡°I wish to return to Wavery¡±


    Mallory frowned upon hearing her. ¡°Don¡¯t joke around. You are injured from the car ident and are


    still recovering from the surgery on your womb. How can you move around?¡±


    ¡°My injury is not so severe. I just have to be careful, and I believe I can travel home.¡± Josie was


    insistent.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to see Dexter?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve checked the news recently and kept seeing articles about Grandpa. With his age, I¡¯m concerned


    that managing Russell Group will strain his health. That¡¯s why I need to return to see him. Also, my


    father has


    called me many times, Josie exined patiently.


    She was anxious about theck of improvement to Russell Group¡¯s situation. Instead of waiting


    helplessly in the United Kingdom, she preferred to return to Wavery to check the situation.


    ¡°You¡­.¡± Mallory was put in a difficult spot. After confronting Calvin that day, he came to her and


    instructed her to take good care of Josie. She agreed, but as a woman, she could not help but feel


    angry on Josie¡¯s behalf, Still, she thought a change of environment might be good for Josie¡¯s recovery.


    ¡°Mallory, there must be something special about you that Calvin keeps you by his side. Can you help


    me with my request? I will repay this favor one day,¡± Josie said slowly.


    Mallory had no choice but to assist her.


    It was summer. Most passengers wore short sleeves and shorts on the ne. However, Josie wore


    thick woolen clothes and stood out like a sore thumb.


    Laura had been waiting for them at the airport since morning. Seeing Josie, she rushed over with a


    coat and said, ¡°How are you feeling? Are you okay? Here, take this. The airport¡¯s air conditioning is too


    chilly. You mustn¡¯t catch a cold.¡±


    Mallory handed over Josie in a wheelchair to Laura and asked, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡±


    Josie nodded and thanked her. ¡°She¡¯s my friend. Don¡¯t worry.¡±

 Chapter 509

    Chapter 509


    Chapter 509 We Are Family


    Mallory turned around and left to get onto another flight to return to the United Kingdom


    Laura pushed the wheelchair and rushed to the car park. At the same time, she said, ¡°What happened


    to you? Why didn¡¯t you contact me at all? How did you get into an ident? Why didn¡¯t you tell me


    about your ectopic pregnancy?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you about itter, but first, send me to Russell Group.¡±


    Laura paused briefly but decided to do as Josie instructed.


    After they were seated in the car, Laura gave her a summary of the situation in Wavery and added,


    ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t have to worry. Dexter¡¯s family has deep reserves. They will have no problem


    persisting for half a month. It won¡¯t be easy for Arnold to destroy such arge corporation.¡±


    Then, she hesitated briefly and nced into the rearview mirror before continuing. ¡°Did you see the


    news about Dexter and Summer?¡±


    Josie curved her pale lips into a smile. ¡°Yes. It was a setup,¡±¡±


    Laura instantly breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°I¡¯m d that you understand. I was so anxious about the


    rumors flying around and your condition.¡±


    Josie had informed Henry that they would be visiting. They headed straight to De arriving at Russell


    Group. Henry sat behind Dexter¡¯s desk and wore a pair of read the documents. He seemed tired and


    overworked.


    ¡°Grandpa.¡±


    Upon hearing Josie¡¯s voice, Henry looked up and was shocked to see her weak and brok immediately


    and approached her. ¡°What¡­ What happened¡­¡±


    He looked at her and felt heartbroken about her condition. However, he did not dare to ask too


    questions or stare at her. He seemed nervous and unsure about what he should do.


    Need


    Josie pretended not to notice and said half-jokingly, I¡¯m okay. It¡¯s only a minor injury, and I will recove


    soon. Laura made a big fuss over a small matter and insisted I use a wheelchair.¡°


    Henry observed her for some time. It broke his heart to see her injured. ¡°How am I to answer your


    father with you like this¡­¡±


    Josie held Henry¡¯s hand tofort him.


    ¡°The construction side is mostly resolved for now. However, our finances are tight, Henry exined


    after hearing Josie¡¯s reason for visiting. He sighed and continued, ¡°Russell Group and its branches


    have tens of thousands of employees. Their sries amounted to billions each month. Furthermore,


    thepany has all kinds of projects requiring capital. Our risk of bankruptcy gets higher the longer


    Dex drags this matter.¡±


    Josie understood his words. ¡°In short, we are running out of money.¡±


    Henry sighed, reminding her, ¡°I told you this only because you wish to know. However, you must not


    overexert yourself. Carter Group and Russell Group are in the midst of a pricing war. Don¡¯t get


    involved.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m Dexter¡¯s wife. Grandpa, we are family. Family members should share burdens.¡± Josie had a


    n in mind. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will do what I can and won¡¯t overexert myself.¡±


    Henry was relieved to hear that.


    Laura only dared to speak after they left Russell Group, ¡°What are you nning to do? Are you going


    to raise funds through our small studio or from your savings? We don¡¯t have the means to fill such a


    significant gap. If it were up to me, I would let Dex keep acting with Summer. He will get the funds if he


    manages to convince Summer.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s perfectly normal to sacrifice a little when necessary.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie tightened the jacket around her body and pondered silently before saying, ¡°Laura, can you help


    me with something? I wish to meet Mark.¡±


    Laura was stunned.


    It was not easy to arrange a meeting with Mark. He was usually busy and had unpredictable schedules.


    However, he had been shutting himself in Olsen Residence for the past few days due to Summer¡¯s


    illness.


    Laura could not help but feel apprehension as she brought Josie to Olsen Residence. She rarely


    interacted with her father-inw. He was a prominent figure and was strict with the people around him.


    She was scared of him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll tell him I came to the house alone and bumped into you at the door. I won¡¯t cause you


    trouble,¡± Josieforted Laura.

 Chapter 510

    Chapter 510


    Chapter 510 He Refuses to See You


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean it that way. Laura clenched her teeth and opened the car door. ¡°Wait for me here. I¡¯ll go in


    and talk to him.¡±


    Josie waited in the Olsen Residence¡¯s yard. It was windy, so she wrapped her coat tightly around her.


    The summer breeze hurt like knives on her skin.


    She observed Olsen Residence. It had a European design and was bigger than Mason Garden. Arge


    fountain was before the main entrance, and various flowers lined the paths. The ce looked less like


    a house and more like a castle.


    Summer was the princess of this castle.


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    As Josic thought about this, she suddenly understood why Summer had an innate sense of being


    better than everyone and looked down on others. It was understandable since she grew up in such an


    environment.


    Five minutester, Laura rushed toward Josie and was shocked to see her in the yard. ¡°Why did you


    get out of the car? Does it hurt? Do you feel faint?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°What did he say?¡±


    Laura appeared troubled. ¡°He¡­ refuses to see you.¡±


    It was as Josie expected.


    She sighed and replied, ¡°Can I trouble you to talk to him again? Tell him I wish to talk to him as


    someone he once cherished.¡±


    Laura widened her eyes in shock. ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡±


    Is she thinking of impersonating Liana Olsen, Mark¡¯s precious daughter? How could she think of doing


    this?


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a choice. Please give it a try.¡± Josie needed Mark¡¯s support.


    She never thought her facial resemnce with Liana would be helpful one day.


    A blue Bentley suddenly barged into the yard as she waited for Laura to speak to Mark. The car te


    numbers were a row of eight. She could only think of one person owning such a car in Wavery.


    Arnold stepped out of the car and hurried toward her. His smile gradually diminished as he saw her


    condition.


    His expression darkened when he saw the wheelchair next to her. ¡°What happened? You were fine


    before heading to the United Kingdom.¡±


    Josie was not in the mood to joke with him. ¡°Mr. Carter, you have such good memory. Wasn¡¯t it all


    thanks to you?¡±


    Arnold looked away and concealed his emotions. His tone turned cold, ¡°We shouldn¡¯t talk about this.¡±


    However, Josie could not help but be furious as she thought about Dexter being dragged into their


    complicated schemes. The public doesn¡¯t know about Carter¡¯s Group¡¯s involvement in Russell Group¡¯s


    crisis. The tracks are covered so well. You must be proud of yourself. Why do you evene to Olsen


    Residence?¡±


    Arnold stared at theirbined shadows and replied. ¡°Must you talk to me like this


    Josie looked away


    The two were in a cold war with each other.


    Laura ran out of the house and was stunned to see them together. She said to Josie, ¡°Mark still refuses


    to see you. He is furious


    Josie closed her eyes and clenched her teeth. ¡°Tell him I will stand here and wait until he agrees to see


    me


    Those words made Laura panic, but Arnold replied sarcastically, ¡°You must be tough, Mrs. Russell. I


    can¡¯t help but be touched to see you braving your illness to save your husband.¡±


    Josie looked ahead and did not respond.


    Arnold ignored her and proceeded into Olsen Residence. He was likely here to see Mark.


    ¡°Are you insane? I¡¯ll help you think of another way. You can¡¯t risk your health like this.¡± Laura was


    getting


    angry.


    ¡°Laura. I¡¯m certain that Summer is behind this matter, but Mark might not know yet. I need to exin


    the matter and ask him to coborate with Russell Group. Josie answered firmly.


    ¡°What difference would it make even if Summer is behind it? She is his daughter. Why would he side


    with an outsider over his daughter?¡±


    ¡°A businessman ces profit above everything. I have confidence that I can convince him. All I need is


    a chance to meet him.¡±

 Chapter 511

    Chapter 511


    Chapter 511 I¡¯ll Bring Her Away


    Josie was determined. Still, she would not push herself too far and sat in the wheelchair to wait. She


    refused to leave.


    ¡°You¡±


    Laura had no choice but to wait with her. The sunlight was very ring during summer. She instructed


    the servants to bring an umbre.


    Josie was engrossed in her thoughts. ¡°Is Summer not here?¡±


    ¡°People said she has a high fever, but it¡¯s only an excuse. She has been busy for days and has likely


    received some tasks. She left the house early in the morning every day and came homete every


    night.¡±


    Things will be easier without Summer around.


    ¡°What about Zach? What kind of work does he do every day?¡±


    ¡°He manages some minor tasks Mark gave him, but he¡¯s rich, so he spends most of his time in leisure¡±


    Zach was Mark¡¯s eldest son. He is truly a failure to be reduced to this state.


    Does he still hit you!¡±


    Laura smiled helplessly. ¡°Depends on his mood. He won¡¯t hit me if he¡¯s in a good mood.¡±


    Meanwhile, Mark and Arnold were in a study on the left of Olsen Residence¡¯s top floor.


    Mark stood on adder and took a book from the shelf. His posture seemed concerning. Arnold held


    thedder below and said, ¡°You¡¯re in good shape. I¡¯m afraid my walking will be unsteady once I reach


    your


    age.


    Mark was pleased with hispliment. ¡°You should drink less alcohol and spend less time with


    women. Then, your body will recover by itself.¡±


    ¡°It can¡¯t be helped. How can a businessman avoid alcohol and womenpletely?¡± Arnold smiled. He


    noticed Mark wanted to get down thedder and reached out to support him. ¡°Perhaps you can help


    me find a way to retire early?¡±


    Mark was amused and jokingly chided him for being a rascal.


    The two sat in the study and chatted for two hours. Arnold did not bring up any business matters and


    said he only came to spend time with Mark to cheer him up. However, Markter seemed distracted


    and kept looking at the window.


    Arnold noticed his restlessness and mentioned, ¡°I think 1 saw Dexter¡¯s wife on my way in. Why¡­.¡±


    ¡°She came here for Russell Group.¡± Mark¡¯s expression turned ruthless. ¡°She¡¯s the same as Dexter!


    They don¡¯t know what¡¯s good for them!¡±


    ¡°It seems so. However, the sky looks like it¡¯s going to rain soon. Perhaps you should send someone to


    chase her out and avoid further trouble,¡± Arnold said indifferently, fiddling with his watch nonchntly.


    Hearing him, Mark called a servant over and ordered, ¡°Go outside and check what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Soon, the servant returned and reported, ¡°Mr. Olsen, she is still outside. It looks like it will be raining


    soon


    Mark mmed his teacup on the table. ¡°Why is she so stubborn? Does she think she can threaten me


    this way? Dream on!¡±


    The weather is unpredictable in summer. Suddenly, thunders rolled. Arnold¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He


    could not sit still anymore. ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s time for me to leave. What about I solve your problem for you,


    Mr. Olsen.¡±


    Mark closed his eyes and rubbed his brow. He did not answer.


    Arnold stood up and nearly ran out of the house.


    It was already raining outside. Even though Laura held an umbre for Josie, the rain still sttered on


    her. Her face was pale as a sheet, and she was shivering from the cold. She looked like she was about


    to copse.


    Anger surged within Arnold. He rushed to her and yelled, ¡°Are you trying to kill yourself?


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    Josie hadbored breathing. She was also too weak to speak.


    Laura held the umbre and tried to stop him. However, Arnold held Josie in his arms and shouted,


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I¡¯ll get her out of here!¡±


    With that, he carried Josie to the car and sped away.

 Chapter 512

    Chapter 512


    Chapter 512 Unfamiliar Body


    Meanwhile, Dexter gave instructions to Russell Group research team in London


    ¡°I will fight to the end if I have to. Therefore, make sure no problem arises with the funds I need


    The research team noted his instruction and waited for him to continue


    He paused before saying. Tm going to get some sleep. No one is allowed to disturb me


    The crowdughed in good nature.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Dexter slept less than four hours every day for many days now. The urgency of the matter kept him at


    work. Even machines could not withstand such work intensity.


    He let himself fall onto the soft king-sized bed and buried his face partially in the pillow. He could not


    resist checking his phone, but Josie did not call him.


    The remorse and longing he had been suppressing surged throughout his mind and rooted deep in his


    heart.


    He had no idea how she was doing.


    Forget it. Dexter put down his phone. It feels insincere to exin or apologize over the phone. I might


    as well timil until I return home to talk to her.


    After a while, he let go of his thoughts and fell asleep.


    He had a good sleep.


    At dawn, as the sky was about to brighten, Dexter heard soft footsteps in his half-awakened state.


    The person seemed careful not to wake him and tried to be as quiet as possible. It was a woman. She


    filled the ss on his bedside table with water.


    His longing and desire grew with sudden intensity. Dexter smirked slightly and made a daring guess:


    Only Larry has a copy of my room card and would not give it to anyone except Josie.


    Is she here? Did shee to confront me or to ask questions? It doesn¡¯t matter. Dexter thought


    excitedly. It¡¯s a good time for us tomunicate.


    The woman finished pouring water and hesitated briefly before going to the other side of the bed and


    lying beside him.


    Dexter did not open his eyes, but the exhaustion from the past few days faded away. He was ready to


    make his move.


    Since time immemorial, heroes were weak to the charms of beautifuldies. Dexter was no exception.


    He could not resist when the woman he loved was so close to him.


    As the woman reached out her hand, Dexter grabbed her wrist and pressed her beneath him with his


    lower body. He leaned toward her face and whispered coyly, I¡¯ve been away for so long, Why didn¡¯t you


    come to me until now? Could it be because you believed the rumors? Don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t have feelings


    for Summer, but I keep thinking about you. Do you believe.¡±


    Dexter would never let a good opportunity go by. He pulled up the woman¡¯s shirt as he talked and


    slipped his hands underneath it.


    However, a realization hit him as soon as he touched her body. His expression changed.


    Her body was unfamiliar to him.


    Dexter immediately got off the bed and turned on the light. The light came on and illuminated Heather¡¯s


    pitiful expression.


    Her clothes were a mess, and tears fell from her eyes. She looked at him as if he wronged her. ¡°Mr.


    Russell. I didn¡¯t know it was you, I came to the wrong room.


    Dexter felt an intense migraine as he looked at the mess before him. He was on the verge of copse.


    The desire in his body faded away. His expression turned stern as he buttoned up his shirt. ¡°How did


    you get in?¡±


    Even though Heather was sad, she was more fearful of Dexter and answered frankly, ¡°Your door wasn¡¯t


    locked.


    At this moment, Dexter recalled that he was too exhaustedst night and forgot to lock the door after


    closing it. Anyone could have gotten in.


    Dexter picked up his car keys from the bedside table and said solemnly, ¡°No one is to know what


    happened here. I mistook you for someone else, and I¡¯m sorry. However, all I can do is apologize.¡±

 Chapter 513

    Chapter 513


    Chapter 513 Is It Worth It?


    His cold turn was like a stab to Heather¡¯s heart. Tears cascaded down her face like glistening pearls.


    She could not resist asking. ¡°Did you think I was Josie?¡±


    Dexter did not stop walking away.


    Heather had never experienced so much shame. She willingly gave herself to Dexter just now, but he


    would only ept Josie.


    Jealousy fermented in her heart. She bit her lip and shouted, ¡°She will never return to you! Don¡¯t you


    know? Rumors say she has signed a divorce agreement!


    Dexter paused at the door and red at her. He did not conceal his fury. ¡°Say it again.¡±


    Heather trembled with fear, but it was toote to take her words back. She looked down in silence and


    did not dare to repeat her words.


    Dexter was still furious. He growled, ¡°I told you to say it again!¡±


    ¡°I only heard about it. That¡¯s what everyone says!¡±


    Dexter dashed forward in a sh and grabbed her neck. His face twisted with madness. ¡°That¡¯s


    impossible. She had no reason to sign it. What did you do to her?¡±


    Heather had difficulty breathing under his iron grip. Her face was flushed as she struggled to speak.


    ¡°No one forced her. Don¡¯t you know your mother brought the divorce agreement to her? Since your


    mother went to see her, she would think your mother¡¯s words represent your stance.¡±


    Dexter refused to believe her and sneered, ¡°What kind of joke is this? She knows me better than


    anyone in the world. She will never sign anything Xanthe brings her!¡±


    Still, he was relieved after hearing Heather¡¯s words.


    He knew what was rumored did not happen. Josie knew Xanthe¡¯s true nature and had no reason to


    trust her.


    Even so, he was still a little concerned. He worried that she would be discouraged by the rumors.


    Meanwhile, Heather nearly lost all hope. She did not expect Dexter to have so much trust for Josie.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, there¡¯s news everywhere about you returning to Wavery to see Summer despite being in


    the midst of a crisis. What makes you think she doesn¡¯t know?¡± Heather sneered mockingly. ¡°Any


    woman would be unhappy to see her husband involved with another woman.¡±


    She got off the bed and continued, ¡°I won¡¯t tell her about what happened here, but what do you think


    will happen if she finds out from someone else?¡±


    Heather knew psychological maniption. She was also aware of Dexter¡¯s weakness.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Mr. Carter had said something about you that I found true. You¡¯re always so egoistical that


    you think you¡¯re always right.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s confidence wavered slightly as he listened to her.


    Meanwhile, Josie slept fretfully in Wavery. She had continuous nightmares and broke out in cold sweat.


    ¡°Argh!¡±


    She awoke from her dream and saw a middle-aged woman she did not know. The woman brought a


    bowl of soup to the bedside table and smiled excitedly when she noticed Josie had woken. ¡°Ms.


    Warren, you¡¯re awake!¡±


    Josie shivered and nced at the unfamiliar room before turning to the woman again. ¡°Where am I?¡±


    The woman was stunned before answering. ¡°You¡¯re in Sky Pce. Mr. Carter brought you here.¡±


    It turned out she was not imagining things. Arnold had grabbed her from Olsen Residence and brought


    her here.


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    ¡°I¡¯ll inform Mr. Carter immediately. The woman put down the bowl in her hand and continued, ¡°But Ms.


    Warren, your body is weak, and you have a fever. Please stay here and don¡¯t get up yet.¡±


    Josie was a little out of breath. She looked at the nearby mirror and saw her face was pale as a sheet.


    At the same time, she felt a slight pain in her abdomen.


    Soon, she heard firm footsteps heading her way. A voice sounded, ¡°Was it worth it to suffer a


    miscarriage, a car ident, and stand under the rain for him?¡±

 Chapter 514

    Chapter 514


    Chapter 514 Permanent Profit


    Josie looked up and saw Arnold walkingnguidly toward her, dressed in casual clothes. He stood


    leaning against the bookshelf and spoke in a mocking tone.


    She looked away and replied, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have brought me away.¡±


    I had stayed there a little longer, Mark might agree to meet me.


    ¡°I thought staying by Dexter¡¯s side would make you wise. I didn¡¯t expect you to be so na?ve.¡± Arnold


    sneered before continuing. You should know what kind of person Mark is. He has authority over the


    whole city and has never experienced defeat. What makes you think he will give up a major project for


    you?¡±


    Arnold said those words with resentment. At the same time, he felt guilty and concerned for her.


    However, he hid those feelings.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°But Mark didn¡¯t start this project. It was Summer, right?¡± Josie panted as she looked into his eyes.


    ¡°You joined forces with her, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Arnold avoided her gaze and appeared stern. Josie, business is a battlefield. There¡¯s no friendship,


    only shared profits.¡±


    I understand. That¡¯s why I never begged for your help even when things havee to this state.


    Meeting with Mark is my only hope.¡±


    Josie¡¯s thoughts were clear.


    ¡°Do you know Dexter submitted to Mark¡¯s demands for Russell Group¡¯s sake and met with Summer?


    He never respected you as his wife,¡± Arnold said frankly. ¡°He only cares about profit. It¡¯s pointless to


    sacrifice your well-being for him.¡±


    Silence hung in the air between them and gradually felt suffocating.


    Josie gripped the nket tightly as if it was her lifeline. She forced down the indignance in her heart


    and replied, ¡°You might think I¡¯m stupid, but I believe husband and wife are one. That means I need to


    share his burden. Otherwise, how do I deserve to be called Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Josie was doubtful and confident, stupid and clever. Arnold found it hard to believe all those qualities


    belonged to the same person.


    Heughed despite his anger. ¡°What are you going to do? Even if you get to meet Mark, what then? He


    will always side with his daughter. What makes you think he will help you just because you resemble


    Liana?¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless. Her gaze turned dazed. ¡°That¡¯s my only bargaining chip.¡±


    ¡°I want to tell him that he will never regret choosing Russell Group. The value that Dexter can generate


    is far more than the immediate benefit before him.¡±


    Arnold nodded and paced slowly. Then, he took the soup from the bedside table and brought a


    spoonful to her lips.


    Josie remained still.


    ¡°Open your mouth.¡±


    Josie stared at him.


    ¡°Mark will never agree to meet an ill person.¡±


    Thus, Josie had no choice but to open her mouth.


    It was a herbal medicine brew and tasted bitter. Josie wanted to spit it out as soon as she tasted it, but


    Arnold ordered, ¡°Swallow it.¡±


    She frowned and tried her best to ignore the taste.


    ¡°You seem to trust Dexter a lot, Arnold sneered. His tone carried a hint of jealousy.


    ¡°Arnold, thank you,¡± Josie said suddenly. She was not dumb. She knew it was difficult for someone in


    his position to make this decision.


    ¡°What caused the miscarriage?¡± Arnold asked suddenly.


    Josie stiffened and could not resist feeling sadness as she thought about the baby that came to her at


    the wrong time.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t considered a viable pregnancy. I had an ectopic pregnancy, so I eventually need surgery


    anyway.¡± She felt at a loss and told him her secret.


    Arnold¡¯s hand shook slightly. ¡°Does Dexter know?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t n to tell him yet.¡±


    Arnold was stunned before putting down the bowl and said, ¡°How can you consider so much for him


    when you don¡¯t know what he¡¯s doing? What are you to do if he doesn¡¯t appreciate your effort?¡±

 Chapter 515

    Chapter 515


    Chapter 515 Who Do You Think You Are?


    Tll ept that I trusted the wrong person. Josie had always trusted Dexter, even now.


    Arnold fell silent. Suddenly, his phone rang. He nced at the screen and left the room.


    Once Josie felt better, she contacted Laura to inform her that she was safe. Then, she sat before the


    window in a daze


    Russell Group¡¯s situation remained dire. Somehow, her illness let her calm down and think about the


    situation.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Josie realized Arnold and Summer might not be the only ones behind the matter. There could be more


    parties involved.


    She took out the divorce agreement from her bag. The parts for names were left nk. She looked at it


    and wondered if Xanthe was involved in the troubles with Russell Group.


    It was only now that she understood how difficult everything was for Dexter. Every step for him was like


    walking on a tightrope.


    Arnold finished his call and stood still. ¡°I knew it.¡±


    Coincidentally, his secretary came out of the elevator and rushed to him. ¡°Mr. Carter, have you lost your


    mind? That woman is Dexter¡¯s wife. We¡¯ll be in serious trouble if people discover her in our territory.¡±


    Arnold was busy dealing with some matters on his phone and did not look at the secretary. ¡°No one will


    know. He never revealed her identity.¡±


    ¡°I know that, but¡­ Her presence is like a time bomb!


    Arnold did not respond but typed ¡®capture Dexter¡¯ on his phone and sent the message.


    ¡°But Ms. Olsen knows who she is. If she finds out Mrs. Russell is here, our n will be ruined.¡±


    Arnold finally looked up from his phone and warned, ¡°Whether she finds out about it depends on how


    well you all can keep your lips sealed.¡±


    The secretary frowned. He kept feeling his boss¡¯ attitude toward Josie was peculiar.


    Is Marking to Sky Pce for a business gathering in two days?¡± Arnold asked suddenly.


    The secretary considered and answered, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I need you to arrange something. I¡¯m nning to bring a person in.¡±


    The secretary widened his eyes in shock. ¡°No¡­. You mustn¡¯t, Mr. Carter. If she convinces him. Dexter


    might be able to turn things around.¡±


    ¡°Mark will eventually be swayed. He disagreed with Summer¡¯s method in the first ce: Arnold ced


    his arms on the railing and looked down at the lively crowd below.


    ¡°I will make Dexter pay double for ruining my quarterly profit. I won¡¯t let him get away with it However, it


    only took two days for every server in Sky Pce to discover that Arnold kept a woman there


    1/2


    Chapter Sis Who Do You Think You Are?


    Although he had fer other wornen stay in Sky Pce before, he had never taken care of them as


    attentively as he did to this woman


    He instructed the stall to prepare three highly nutritious meate daily, using ingredients flown in from


    inverseal. He spared no expense to care for her


    Everyone spected that this woman was weak and sickly


    Moreover, Arnold would visit her every day.


    Josie spent most of her time sitting in a daze before the window. Her body was so weak that even


    talking feltborious Sull, Arnold was relieved that she survived


    You behave as if you¡¯ve been kidnapped. Who would have thought I would be your savior Arnold


    said in a joking tone. His face, partially shadowed by darkness, appeared seductive and mysterious


    Josie curved her lips. Yes, you saved me many times. I¡¯m afraid I can never fully repay you in this


    lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Stop right there. Arnold raised his hand. ¡°You need to pay me back in full. I don¡¯t want to hear


    nonsense about serving me in my next life.¡±


    ¡°Tll repay you when there is a right opportunity.¡± Josie found him strange. He saved her life but was


    also her enemy. Yet, they got along quite well.


    ¡°Arnold.¡± Josie could not resist asking. ¡°When will I get to meet Mark?¡±


    Arnold arched his eyebrows and leaned toward her slightly. Tve provided you with food and a ce to


    stay. How could you order me to do something for you? Who do you think you are, Josie!¡±

 Chapter 516

    Chapter 516


    Chapter 516 I Think It¡¯s Possible


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Jose did not respond bus stared at him


    Arnold turned his back in her and began walking out of the room. It¡¯s eight o¡¯clock tonight at room


    At night, Josie dotted herself up and went to the door. She realized the room she had been staying in


    was the room Arnold usually used


    The stall warmed room number 412 in advance and rushed around to prepare until Mark appeared


    Then a group of people gathered and followed him in. Arnold finally appeared to Josie and said, ¡°Let¡¯s


    go in


    Josie quickly followed him.


    Mark would discuss ways to attract more investment to Wavery with a few people. A few prominent


    businessmen sat around the table. Arnold stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Olsen, I¡¯ve prepared


    something special when I heard you¡¯reing tonight. Shall I bring in a few vintage wines from my


    collection for Everyone?


    Arnold was good with words. Moreover, the guests were more than willing to take up his offer.


    Someone said, ¡®Arnold, you¡¯re such a generous host. No wonder this ce is sessful!¡±


    Arnold chuckled and indicated to Josie, who was holding the wine bottle, to step forward.


    Josie nodded. She wore the server¡¯s uniform and a mask over her face. No one recognized her.


    She poured ss after ss of red wine for these prominent businessmen. Then. Arnold excused


    himself to leave and left her in the room to serve them.


    Someone said, ¡°Mr. Olsen, can you tell us the truth? Will Russell Group be able to continue operating?


    Mark sipped the wine and feigned ignorance. ¡°Why do you ask me? How would I know?¡±


    ¡°Enough with the pretense. Who doesn¡¯t know that the Olsen family is involved in this matter?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right; I have to say the Olsen family is impressive to strike Russell Group with such a severe


    blow At the moment, Dexter can only hide in the United Kingdom, trying to buy time. Who knows how


    long he can persist.¡±


    However, if Russell Group were to turn things around, we would have offended it. It would be


    detrimental


    to us.¡±


    Mark snorted upon hearing them. ¡°You sly old foxes.¡±


    Everyoneughed.


    As for Russell Group, one can¡¯t tell whether it will crumble or survive? Mark did not give a


    straightforward answer. ¡°It depends on whether Dexter can secure more funds


    I believe he can, Josie said suddenly from the side. Her voice sounded clear as she interrupted the


    group of prominent businessmen.


    The men were surprised and frowned as they looked at her ¡°You¡¯re only a server. Do you know what


    we were talking abour¡±


    ¡°Yes, who doesn¡¯t know what¡¯s happening with Russell Group¡± Josie replied with a smile. ¡°Everyone


    thinks it¡¯s destined to fall, but I believe Russell Group will turn things around and end up victorious I


    used to work in a key department in Russell Group, so I know their financial situation. I remember


    Dexter has something up his sleeves in his n to test the businesses in Wavery¡±


    None of the businessmen believed her. Someone frowned and asked, ¡°You worked in Russell Group


    before?


    ¡°Why are you now working as a server in this ce?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because I was fired. Josie sighed and gave out a document. It showed her employment record.


    However, these businessmen were not entirely convinced. Josie continued, ¡°I was unfairly dismissed.


    That¡¯s why I¡¯m willing to tell you all this information.¡±


    ¡°Do you wish to take revenge against Russell Group?¡±


    ¡°I guess you can say that.¡± Josie nodded. ¡°That¡¯s why I want to remind everyone not to underestimate


    Russell Group. Do you know Xanthe Quorn, Dexter¡¯s mother? She returned from overseas with a


    significant amount of funds. Which mother wouldn¡¯t want to help her son?¡±


    She said those words to convince them.


    The businessmen¡¯s frowns tightened. One of them turned to Mark and asked, ¡°Mr. Olsen, what do you


    think? Russell Group is a major tax contributor in Wavery. I believe even the authorities will not let it fall


    that easily

 Chapter 517

    Chapter 517


    Chapter 517 Confidence


    rved Joie all this while. It was hard to determine how much


    how much her words, gue dhrough


    otiserved jorie all


    His gaze reminded


    del ber of a polwmous snake


    to


    Josie Forced herself to remain calm


    Why do you wear a mask Mark asked a seemingly unrted question


    Josie¡¯s heart trembled nervously. I have a cold and don¡¯t want to spread it to anyone


    Mark looked away and put down the wine ss. Since you have a cold, you should go out now. You


    don¡¯t have toe back anymore.


    Josse tried to say something but stopped herself. She had more things to say but realized on second


    thought that she had talked long enough. Thus, she nodded and left the room.


    She breathed in the fresh air and calmed down. When she looked up, she was surprised to see Arnold.


    He had been standing outside all this while.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Mark discovered me.¡±


    Arnold nodded and took off her mask. ¡°Let¡¯s leave here first.¡±


    Josie was still covered in cold sweat. She waited until they entered the elevator, asking. ¡°Why didn¡¯t


    you leave?¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    ¡°I was worried that they might kill you.¡± He was not joking. These people did terrible things as you Josie


    recalled Mark¡¯s expression. Tm afraid some of my words have gotten to them. Arnold


    No matter the oue, what she did was damaging to his interest.


    Arnold looked at Josie¡¯s reflection in the elevator mirror. ¡°It¡¯s not your first time apologizing to me


    Furthermore, how sure are you that they would listen to you?¡±


    I have confidence.¡±


    She was not confident about herself but in Dexter¡¯s track record through the years. Those


    businessmen were still wary of him. Thus, her half-truths were effective against them


    You look quite nice in these clothes. There¡¯s something appealing about uniforms Arnold¡¯s voice was


    low and charming as he patted her head.


    The elevator door opened.


    Josie felt hot all over her body Her difort grew as Arnold looked at her, instinctively prompting her


    to push him away. ¡°Tm taking a bath


    Her tension melted away once she soaked her body in the warm water. She recalled what Amold seld


    and grew flustered as she thought about it. She even noticed how warm het cheeks became


    Why wat he willing to help me unconditionally? Perhaps¡­


    She smacked her face. ¡°Josie, what are you thinking?¡±


    To her surprise, Arnold was still in the room when she walked out of the bathroom with a towel around


    her body. He sat on the floor quietly, ying a game. Josie instinctively tightened her towel around


    herself, ensuring it covered her properly.


    ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    Arnold sensed her approaching him. He did not look up but continued to focus on the game Josie


    watched him y. Her hair brushed his wrist as she looked down.


    Her hair stands were damp and felt ticklish on his skin.


    ¡°Is it wrong for me to enter my room?¡±


    Josie had nothing to say.


    Then, Arnold sighed and ended the game beautifully. Then, he snatched the towel from her hand and


    pulled open a nearby drawer without a word. There was a hair dryer inside.


    He plugged it in and used it to blow dry Josie¡¯s hair.


    Josie stiffened and felt the gentle warm air on her hair. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve gone through surgery easily, so you must be careful not to catch a cold. Shouldn¡¯t you be


    thanking me?¡±


    Arnold dried her hair properly and was pleased with the result.


    Josie felt awkward and dared not turn around to look at him.


    On the other hand, Arnold behaved naturally and offered her his phone. ¡°You can y any games you


    want here whenever you¡¯re bored.¡±


    Josie nced at the screen and discovered he had installed various games.


    It was now Arnold¡¯s turn to watch her y.


    She chose an adventure game to test it out. Arnold saw how clumsy she was andughed. Suddenly,


    the atmosphere between them was no longer so awkward.


    Josie was angry and frustrated.


    Arnold looked at the phone before regarding her expression. He pondered for a while before daring to


    speak Josie.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I have many game consoles at home. I¡¯ll invite you to my ce to y games the next time we meet


    Those words sounded perfectly normal. Yet, Josie sensed a lingering romance in his tone for some


    reason

 Chapter 518

    Chapter 518


    Chapter 518 Strike Back


    Three dayster. Russell Group suddenly received a few capital investments and instantly improved


    thepany¡¯s situation Dexter was adept in making the most of any opportunities avable and made


    impactful decisions on the market.


    Suddenly,panies that went against Russell Group suffered drastic drops in value in future markets,


    foreign exchange markets, and stock markets. Their future market value feil by three percent. Their


    foreign exchange markets fell spectacrly by six hundred points. Meanwhile, the stock market value


    dropped to two thousand three hundred points from the original three thousand points


    Many shareholders sold off their shares and abandoned the ship.


    However, many people could not figure out why thesepanies, which were doing well, suddenly


    sank into crisis. Then, Dexter¡¯s representative stepped out publicly and said, ¡°I wonder what those who


    harbor ill-intentions against ourpany feel about our returning gifts.¡±


    It turned out Dexter struck back against them.


    Dexter regained his footing after a significant setback and maintained the stability of his position.


    Furthermore, he struck back and retaliated against his enemies.


    His actions sent fear throughout the business world. Everyone knew this was the real Dexter. He would


    neverpromise and give in to demands, especially in a marriage alliance.


    When he received the news, Arnold was getting breakfast for Josie at a diner.


    ¡°I understand.¡± His reaction was surprisingly calm for someone whose interest was directly affected by


    the


    matter.


    He even smiled at the diner owner after hanging up. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s car traveled toward the apartment. At the same time, his iPad yed the day¡¯s news. He


    listened to Russell¡¯s group¡¯s spokesperson and thought he had a simr sense of authority and


    arrogance to Dexter The spokesperson did not care to hide or deny anything. Instead, he bravely


    admitted to what thepany did.


    Arnold turned off the news broadcast.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Josie had just finished washing up and was surprised when she opened the door. ¡°Did you calcte


    my schedule? How did you know I¡¯ve woken up?¡±


    Arnold walked in and ced the breakfast on the tes. ¡°How are you feeling today?


    Early morning sunlight shone into the room. The two sat on each side of the dining table and looked


    like a couple.


    Josie said. ¡°You don¡¯t have to bring me breakfast. I don¡¯t want to trouble you¡±


    Logically, Dester should have been busy today.


    He should stay in London to make decisions vital to prevent Carter Group from retaliating and deal with


    changes in the market


    Everyme thought that was what he would do Unexpectedly, he did not show up even as a few adstants


    waited all night for him in the first temporary meeting room. In the end, it was Larry who came to ge


    them instructions


    ¡°Mr. Russell has returned to Wavery Thus, we will put yeni in charge of surveince¡± Larry felt he was


    forcing them to do something they were not interested in and added softly. ¡°Take it as a training


    opportunity Those who did well shall be promoted as thepany¡¯s role model


    The assistants were rendered speechless


    Thankfully, everything was within expectations. The staff in London could take charge of the situation


    even without Dexter watching them.


    Meanwhile, Dexter arrived in Wavery and was mobbed by reporters when he exited the airpor


    No one knew how they found out about his flight details. Numerous camera lenses were aimed at the


    tall and sturdy man dressed in all ck.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, did you work hard for the past few days for what happened today? Do you have enemies


    in the industry?¡±


    ¡°Can you give us details about your ns in the United Kingdom? What will you be doing next


    ¡°What is your rtionship with Ms. Olsen?¡±


    Each question struck the critical points of the matter.


    The bodyguards escorted Dexter as he proceeded forward through the jostling crowd. Unfortunately, he


    could not leave as fast as he liked and frowned with frustration. Anger burned within him. When one of


    the reporters identally hit his fingers with a microphone, he red at the reporter and asked, ¡°Which


    mediapany are you from?¡±


    The reporter immediately backed down. Other reporters were so frightened by Dexter¡¯s tone that they


    dared not ask any more questions.


    After that, the bodyguards apanied Dexter to his ear. He did not care what others thought of him


    and stepped hard on the elerator, making the car speed away like a rocket.


    The crowd was confused. Dexter has won, so shouldn¡¯t he be happy? Why does he seem so sullen?

 Chapter 519

    Chapter 519


    Chapter 519 A Pet Dog


    When the news showed up on the TV in Olsen Residence, Summer violently threw the remote control


    in her hand onto the floor.


    Dexter finally submitted my demands that day and came to Wavery to see me. Yet, everything is now


    gone¡­


    The servants were shocked. No one dared to make a sound.


    Summer had always behaved like a perfect youngdy of a prominent family. She was well-mannered


    most of the time and rarely lost her cool.


    Mark heard noises from the study and walked out with the aid of a walking stick. ¡°What is it this time?


    Why so loud?¡±


    Summer stood downstairs. She looked at her father and asked, ¡°Dad, did you provide capital to Russell


    Group?¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡± Mark denied it.


    ¡°I can¡¯t think of anyone else who would do this., Russell Group was at a dead end and would have


    copsed in a few more days. Yet, how did it suddenly obtain capital investment? Apart from you, I


    can¡¯t think of anyone in Wavery who would want to help him!¡±


    Summer¡¯s tone was harsh. Although she had only taken over the Olsen family matters for half a month,


    she had the bearing of the head of the family.


    Even Mark could not deny that she had good potential. At the same time, he agreed with Dexter that


    Summer had no foresight.


    ¡°How can there be no one else? Didn¡¯t Dexter¡¯s mother, Xanthe, return to Wavery? She would help her


    son!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible!¡± Summer answered firmly as if she knew the whole truth.


    But Mark appeared intimidating even when silent.


    Summer realized she had misspoken and added, ¡°What I mean is Xanthe and Dexter don¡¯t get along


    and will never coborate. If she had provided the capital, everyone would have known about it. The


    media would surely investigate it.¡±


    Mark looked at Summer and did not indicate whether he believed her. Instead, he advised sincerely.


    ¡°Summer, you are too impatient. You can¡¯t seed this way.¡±


    Summer looked away upon hearing him. ¡°Every major corporation in Wavery and even the nation


    would not dare to disrespect you. Would they dare to invest capital in Russell Group without informing


    you?¡±


    ¡°We will talk again once you have calmed down and are willing to listen.¡± Mark felt it was useless


    speaking to her at this point.


    At this moment, the noises of a car sounded from outside the Olsen Residence. It was Zach, bringing


    Laura with him. He wore a pair of gold wire-framed sses and appeared elegant and gentlemanly.


    Meanwhile, Laura followed him and dared not speak in such a tense atmosphere.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Summer, did you quarrel with Dad again, Zach smiled and tried to act as the mediator.


    He patted Summer¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°What is there to fight about? You should apologize to Dad


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    quickly,¡±


    Summer red at him and wrenched her hand from him. She went to Laura. ¡°Was it you?¡±


    Laura pursed her lips at the sudden question. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean.¡±


    ¡°I heard someonee to beg Dad about a matter concerning Russell Group when I wasn¡¯t around.


    Did you bring that person in?¡± Summer smirked mockingly.


    Laura nervously touched the tip of her tongue to the roof of her mouth. It seemed Summer had found


    out about her and Josie.


    ¡°She is a business partner in my studio. I have no choice but to help her.¡± Laura looked at Mark.


    ¡°However¡­ Dad did not meet her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lucky that she didn¡¯t meet Dad!¡± Summer scolded furiously. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare simply bring anyone


    home. Are you the owner of this ce? Don¡¯t forget. Who saved you?¡±


    Summer¡¯s words were harsh, but Laura could only swallow her anger. ¡°It¡¯s the Olsen family.¡±


    ¡°Good that you know. Also, who gives you the right to call my father Dad?¡± No one could stop Summer


    when she lost her temper. ¡°You¡¯re nothing more than my brother¡¯s pet dog!¡±


    Pet dog.


    Laura trembled with fury.

 Chapter 520

    Chapter 520


    Chapter 520 Permission to Hit Her


    ¡°Summer, mind your words!¡± Mark could not stand listening to how she talked and mmed his walking


    stick against the floor.


    It was not the first time Summer had shamed Laura this way. If Laura had not married Zach, she would


    never believe that her once close friend had such a foul mouth. However, Laura had experienced it so


    often that she had long be numb.


    Perhaps Summer has never regarded me as a friend since the beginning


    ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡± Summer turned to Zach and asked earnestly.


    Zach¡¯s expression was livid. He suppressed his anger and muttered, ¡°Summer, you¡¯ve gone too far


    I¡¯ve gone too far? All I did was say a few words. Does this mean you care about her?¡± Summer raised


    her head arrogantly. ¡°If you do, why do you drag her to the basement daily to hit her?¡±


    Zach¡¯s expression twisted with fury.


    Laura trembled again.


    Everyone in the Olsen family knew about Zach¡¯s abuse. However, no one talked about it in the open.


    People looked at her with either pity or mockery. Laura felt like she was the family¡¯s punching bag, and


    anyone could take their anger out on her. She had never suffered as much as she did now.


    Mark was on his way downstairs with a servant supporting him.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything? Weren¡¯t you tough before this? You even dared to run away from


    home I guess you helped Josie because she begged Dexter to save you.¡± Summer spoke as if she had


    everything within her control.


    Laura¡¯s eyes grew red. She bit her lip and did not speak.


    However, the sight of Laura¡¯s expression angered Summer even more. She recalled how Liana, her


    biological older sister, who had been missing for many years, nearly met Mark. The thought made her


    furious.


    She stepped forward and pped Laura without warning.


    The p rang loud and clear throughout the room.


    Everyone was stunned for a while.


    ¡°Summer!¡± Zach gripped Summer¡¯s wrist firmly and shoved her to the side. Even hitting another


    person¡¯s dog requires the owner¡¯s permission. Did I permit you to hit her?¡±


    Laura could no longer stand the constant humiliation Tears fell from her eyes. She immediately turned


    around and ran out of the Olsen Residence.


    ¡°You hit me?¡± Summer looked at Zach in disbelief. ¡°How dare you hit me?¡±


    Despite being the younger sister. Summer had always lorded it over Zach since they were little. Now,


    she


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    even dared to hit his wife!


    Permission to Hit Her


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with hitting you?¡±


    ¡°Enough! All of you shut up!¡± Mark watched Laura running away and mmed his walking stick against


    the floor. ¡°Enough with all the fighting. What must I do to get some peace in this house?¡±


    Summer and Zach fell silent immediately.


    ¡°An older brother who doesn¡¯t behave like one. The same goes for the younger sister. You two have


    better reflect on your mistakes!¡±


    Meanwhile, Andy entered Arnold¡¯s office in Sky Pce.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, I¡¯ve instructed others on the matter you ordered.¡± Andy stood before Arnold¡¯s desk and


    found him engrossed in a game. ¡°Erm, what aboutpany matters?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m nearly done with everything. Even if Russell Group manages to revive itself, it will be hard to


    retaliate against us. They have lost too much capital in recent days.¡±


    It meant Arnold seeded in avenging the Carter Group.


    ¡°You can leave for now.¡±


    Andy stood still and said, ¡°Dexter is back.¡±


    Arnold finally reacted upon hearing Andy. He paused briefly before tossing the phone to Andy. ¡°Finish


    this round for me.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie finished packing her belongings. Her phone rang with numerous unanswered calls.


    They were all from Dexter.


    She was unsure how much he knew, but the crisis had been resolved since he initiated contact with


    her.


    All this while, she had missed Dexter desperately and yearned for the opportunity to discuss some


    matters with him. Yet, she suddenly did not know how to face him.


    ¡°Are you leaving?¡± Arnold¡¯s voice suddenly sounded near her.

 Chapter 521

    Chapter 521


    Chapter 521 Knowing the Truth


    Josie woke up from her daze and joked with Arnold. ¡°While I¡¯m reluctant to part with the food here, it¡¯s


    time for me to leave.¡±


    Arnold appeared calm andposed. ¡°Josic, I¡¯ve never encountered a woman who abandons people


    she took advantage of as efficiently as you do.¡±


    Josieughed and replied. ¡°I must say it¡¯s not easy to obtain any advantage from you, Mr. Carter.¡±


    Arnold looked at her bag. It seemed empty when she arrived. Thus, it did not contain much when she


    left.


    He was a little absentminded. ¡°Where are you nning to go after leaving here?¡±


    Josie raised her eyebrows. ¡°I¡¯m going for a checkup at the hospital.¡±


    It was such a standard answer that Arnold had nothing to respond to.


    However, Josie did not lie and went to the hospital as she said. She was concerned about the days


    when she was weakest and could not care for herself.


    Fortunately, the result was all right, and she was recovering well. Still, Josie asked tentatively, ¡°Doctor,


    will I be able to have children again with my condition?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? You¡¯re still young. Of course, you can have children.¡±


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief.


    Meanwhile, the situation was tense in Mason Garden.


    Dexter grabbed a teacup and threw it against Calvin¡¯s forehead. He did not dodge, and blood flowed


    from his wound.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier? You should have told me long ago!¡±


    Calvin ignored the pain and remained stubborn. ¡°I believe I¡¯ve made the right decision. You can¡¯t know


    about this during that situation.¡±


    Dexter panted with fury. He pressed a hand on the edge of a table to prevent himself from falling.


    Josie was pregnant, and it was an ectopic pregnancy. However, the baby was lost before he had a


    chance to see her.


    Furthermore, she was so stubborn that she did not even try to call him.


    ¡°You care too much about Josic. If you had known then, you wouldn¡¯t have been able to focus on


    solving the crisis. Russell Group would have been doomed, Calvin exined urgently.


    Dexter searched for Josie upon his return to Wavery but could not find her anywhere. Even his phone


    calls were answered. He was about to find her through her phone location when Calvin told her what


    had happened to her.


    The revtion left Dexter feeling as if a knife had torn through his heart.


    Even though it was an ectopic pregnancy, it was still a living being. Dexter did not dare to imagine her


    loneliness and helplessness as she underwent surgery to terminate that pregnancy.


    ¡°Calvin, you¡¯ve made me a heartless man in her eyes!¡± Dexter feared this misunderstanding would be


    enough to drive her to sign the divorce papers.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Dexter began to panic. He never panicked, even while facing the worst of Russell Group¡¯s crisis.


    ¡°Josie is an intelligent woman. I believe she will understand.¡±


    ¡°Did she sign it?¡± Dexter looked up with bloodshot eyes. Panic rose within him.


    Calvin frowned and resisted his pain.. ¡°Sign what? Do you mean the divorce agreement? No, Mallory


    was with her throughout. Although Xanthe met with Josie, she did not sign it.¡±


    Dexter suddenly felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted from him. She didn¡¯t sign it! Thank goodness


    she didn¡¯t sign it.


    Calvin felt conflicted as he saw emotions on his best friend¡¯s face that he had never seen before. He


    decided to conceal Josie¡¯s car crash from him.


    It was because the timing of the car crash was too coincidental, if not peculiar. Dexter would never


    forgive himself if he knew about it. Calvin could not bear to let Dexter live with such guilt.


    ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°L. I don¡¯t know.¡±


    In the end, Dexter resorted to tracking her phone location.


    Josiepleted her health checkup and left the hospital to find a ck car stopping before her. The


    window gradually rolled down.


    The wind suddenly blew at her hair, prompting her to turn her face away.


    She knew Dexter would eventually find her.


    He stepped out of the car and looked at her pale face. He pushed himself to speak with much difficulty.


    ¡°Does¡­ it still hurt?¡±


    They used to be tremendously close. Yet, they now stood before each other like strangers.

 Chapter 522

    Chapter 522


    Chapter 522 She Was Exhausted


    Josie could not describe her emotion as she faced him, but it felt so overwhelming that she could not


    speak.


    Although she did not me him, he would never understand the despair she had experienced.


    Seeing her silence, Dexter snatched her health report from her and deciphered the doctor¡¯s messy


    handwritten notes on the results of her treatments.


    The check-up revealed that she was recovering well.


    Josie sighed softly and took the report from him. ¡°There¡¯s nothing much. I only have to finish my


    antibiotics


    Dexter and Josie each had an unusual presence. They soon attracted much attention as they stood


    together.


    He could not help but notice that she lost much weight.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get another check-up to be safe. I should have taken better care of you.¡±


    Josie wanted tough and soon found herselfughing. ¡°Dexter, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    They suddenly became like strangers or dance partners meeting for the first time. Both were unsure


    about how to face each other or how to dance so that they step on the proper steps.


    Dexter was riddled with endless guilt. He carefully lowered his posture and tried to hold her hand.


    ¡°¡±¡°Will you pleasee home with me?¡±


    Josie had missed Dexter in their days apart, but now that they had finally met, she felt lost about what


    to do.


    Can I ignore the hurt and pain I¡¯ve gone through and pretend that they don¡¯t matter?


    She could not figure out her feelings. Thus, she shook her head and replied, ¡°I don¡¯t want to follow you


    home yet. Can you give me some time alone?¡±


    Dexter was reluctant. His eyes darkened with thought. He was usually proud and sure of himself. Josie


    had never seen him so lost and uncertain.


    ¡°You¡±


    Josie had never felt as tired as she did now. Being Mrs. Russell drained all her energy


    ¡°Sure, you can have some time alone. You can contact me whenever you wish to see me.¡± Dexter


    gradually let go of her hand.


    ¨C He watched Josie gradually walk out of his sight. Her warmth faded rapidly from his hands. It felt like


    she


    hadpletely removed herself from his life.


    Dexter stood still for a long time. The wind blew at his coat. He seemed forlorn standing there by


    himself.


    Josie walked for a long time, unsure where she should go. She wanted to go to her father, but she


    knew he would ask many questions if he saw her present state. She did not want to worry him.


    Thus, she walked around for a while before going to Sousturham. She did not head to Russell Mansion


    to visit Henry but went to a church instead.


    udia was surprised to see Josie. ¡°Miss, what brings you here? My goodness. Why have you gotten


    so thin?¡±


    Josie squeezed out a smile. ¡°udia, can I stay with you for a few days?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    Dexter returned to Russell Group the following day.


    Russell Group employees had not seen Dexter for some time and were impressed andforted by


    his stern and powerful presence as he walked past them.


    It felt like everything would be fine as long as Dexter was around.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Wee back, Mr. Russell.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Dexter nced at them indifferently and nodded slightly.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The upper management was waiting for him in the office on the top floor. One of them offered his hand


    and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, like Mark Olsen, you are also someone with the power to save Wavery.¡±¡°


    Dexter gave a shallow smile and shook his hand briefly. Then, he took the document his assistant


    ced on his table and read the details about the Olsen family¡¯s situation.


    The sky was gloomy today. The faint sunlightnded on his handsome face and reflected on the hint of


    tears in his eyes.


    The members of the upper management connected the dots and guessed why Dexter, who should not


    have been back so soon, was now seated in his office.


    It had to be because of Josic. There could be no other reason.

 Chapter 523

    Chapter 523


    Chapter 523 You Can¡¯t Go


    They all knew all too well that nothing would happen to Dexter. In other words, he would never let


    anything happen to him. Even though he was heartbroken, he would still shoulder his responsibilities


    without fail. That was everyone¡¯s impression of Dexter as the head of Russell Group.


    Suddenly, Larry rushed into the office. ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯ve been informed that Mrs. Russell is missing.¡±


    Dexter widened his eyes.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°A reliable source said she left Wavery.¡±


    I should have known she nned to leave me when she said she wanted time alone.


    Dexter suppressed his hurt and forced his rational mind to take over. He gave two orders.


    They wouldunch an attack on Carter Group and search for Josie.


    Josie had likely left recently. Thus, Dexter ordered immediate and thorough searches at the airport and


    high-speed rail station.


    Then, Dexter withdrew from work and spent some time alone before heading to the airport.


    One of the people he assigned to find Josie found many ne boarding passes under her name. It


    seemed she deliberately did not want them to find her. That further confirmed his theory that she left


    Wavery.


    However, no one knew which flight she boarded.


    The airport was always busy and noisy as many people moved about. Dexter stood among the crowd


    and looked at the boarding passes printed with Josie¡¯s name. He fell into a daze.


    Does she hate me that much?


    He knew he was a step toote. No matter his excuse, it would not change that he should not have


    beente.


    Most of the subordinates with Dexter had been working for him for many years. They had never seen


    him in such an emotional state. Although he appeared calm, his heart was shattered.


    News about Dexter¡¯s search in the airport soon reached the airport¡¯s upper management. When the


    person


    in charge heard that Dexter wanted to know which flight Josie boarded, he got out of bed in the middle


    of the night and personally investigated the ne she boarded.


    He found her.


    It turned out that Josie boarded a flight to Rivodia.


    Still, Dexter¡¯s frown did not rx. He could not figure out why she would want to go there. At the


    moment, he guessed she nned to switch flights to make her harder to trace.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Thus, her destination was still a mystery. They had no choice but to continue the search in Rivodia.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°We¡¯re going to Rivodia!¡±


    Someone immediately left to make arrangements. At the same time, a clear and bright voice sounded.


    ¡°You can¡¯t go!¡±


    Dexter nced toward the voice and saw a slightly haggard Laura,


    Laura received news about Dexter¡¯s search for Josie and rushed to the airport. She was relieved that


    she caught up with Dexter.


    She hurried over and stood before him. She forced herself to ignore her fear of him for the first time


    and said, ¡°What I mean is you are not fit to go to her!¡±


    Dexter looked at her indifferently. ¡°Why?¡±


    His indifferent tone angered Laura even more. ¡°Don¡¯t you feel any remorse for what you have done


    recently?¡±


    ¡°Did you not feel any guilt when you visited Summer? Dexter, how can you be so unreasonable?¡±


    A group of bodyguards blocked Laura from getting closer and ensured she could not hurt Dexter.


    Dexter heard her protest and replied tly, ¡°I will apologize to her in person.¡±


    He turned around to head to the boarding area.


    Laura¡¯s eyes were red as she shouted, ¡°You think an apology is enough to cancel all the hurt you


    caused? What a joke!¡±


    Dexter did not pause or slow down until Laura screamed. ¡°She nearly died in a car crash because of


    you! Is that still not enough?¡±


    Dexter stiffened. His eyes were slightly red as he turned around in disbelief. His voice was as cold as


    ice. ¡°What did you say?¡±

 Chapter 524

    Chapter 524


    Chapter 524 Her Sacrifice


    Laura¡¯s words prompted the bodyguards to clear the way, ceasing their obstruction as she approached


    Dexter.


    With resentment, she said, ¡°You were nowhere to be found during that time, but Josie was desperate to


    help you. She had gone the extra mile to gather information and ended up in a car ident while trying


    to locate you. Unfortunately, she lost her baby, but thank goodness, she survived. So, tell me, where


    were you during her hospitalization? How dare you take time out of your busy schedule and return to


    the country only to visit Summer Olsen, who was merely running a high fever!¡±


    The mere mention and recollection of this tragic incident resonated deeply within Laura, evoking a


    profound empathy for Josie and causing tears to stream down her face. However, as she observed


    Dexter¡¯s poker face gradually morphing into anguish, a feeling of sce washed over her.


    ¡°Before fully recuperating, she went to great lengths, hauling her weakened body back to Wavery for


    your sake! She even waited outside the Olsen Residence in the pouring rain all afternoon, tirelessly


    seeking Mark¡¯s help for you! And then ended up falling ill with a high fever!¡±


    I¡¯ve never seen someone as selfless and faithful as Josie. Despite having nothing herself, she goes


    above and beyond to help you. Can you imagine where Russell Group would be today without her


    relentless efforts?¡±


    ¡°Have you any idea she risked her life to secure those funds for you? Have you ever taken a moment


    to consider her feelings and the effort she put in for you?¡±


    Every word and sentence that escaped Laura¡¯s lips struck a chord in Dexter¡¯s heart. Prompting a


    heartfelt overflow of emotions surging through him.


    ¡°After failing her again and again, do you still think you deserve to seek her out?!¡±


    The man felt an overwhelming heartache; his body weakened, on the verge of copsing.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Dexter had no clue that it had unfolded in such a manner. During the most critical moment, it was Josic


    who orchestrated the financial assistance for Russell Group. In fact, she had selflessly given her all


    without any hidden agenda.


    Tears cascaded down Laura¡¯s face like glistening pearls, ¡°Please, just let her be¡­ stop tormenting her.


    You are the esteemed president of Russell Group, but she is just a regr woman. She can¡¯t afford to


    y your rich man¡¯s love games!¡±


    Hadn¡¯t Dexter realized he was the reason for Josie¡¯s indelible sorrow and departure?


    Having said that, Laura no longer cared about Dexter¡¯s emotional state. If he felt remorseful, her words


    would bring him anguish.


    shback to that fateful day when the sun remained veiled behind heavy and ominous clouds, an


    unexinable chill engulfed Josic, shattering her heart into pieces.


    Josie told Laura, ¡°Even so, I still wish him well, hoping for his sess. Despite any obstacles or


    hardships he may face, may he ovee them in the end.¡±


    Dexter was unworthy of Josie¡¯s love!


    Ultimately, Dexter chose not to board the ne to Rivodia. Instead, he got into his car and raced along


    the empty road with the melting snowfall surrounding it. Suddenly, the car skidded and crashed into the


    roadside barrier, resulting in a minor collision that knocked off the license te and caused his car to


    stall.


    Dexter weakly gripped the steering wheel, burying his head in it, reliving the rapid heartbeat and


    anxiety he had just experienced.


    Was this the very fear that gripped Josie during her car ident? She must have been terrified! God


    knows the dreads pain the most!


    The highway authorities were on their way upon receiving news about the crash. The tow truck


    operators who arrived in response were taken aback by the sight of the posh car in such a horrid state.


    What on earth happened? How could the driver bear to crash such an expensive car and see it


    damaged like this?


    Then, under the dim light, they caught sight of someone seated in the driver¡¯s seat, remaining silent yet


    emanating a strong aura. The tow truck operators exchanged nces as they observed the person¡¯s


    shoulders trembling uncontrobly¡­


    Is he crying?


    They were startled and called out hesitantly, ¡°Uh¡­ Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Unbeknownst to them, they had just witnessed an unprecedented event this evening: Dexter crying in a


    fit.


    After an undetermined time, Dexter got out of the car. His face remained stoic and parched with no sign


    of tears. Before he got into the car delivered by Moses and elerated away, he instructed Moses,


    ¡°Resolve this issue and ensure absolute secrecy. No one should ever know or speak of it.¡±


    Despite having just experienced an overwhelming emotional release, Dexter managed to stay


    composed and clear-headed as he instructed Moses to resolve the matter discreetly.

 Chapter 525

    Chapter 525


    Chapter 525 Praying to God


    The church in Sousturham exuded a serene atmosphere, with only a handful of visitors. Those who


    chose to attend the services and bow before the crucifix were devout in their faith.


    For several days, Josie apanied udia in prayers and quiet contemtion at the church,


    seekingfort and discovering a sense of inner peace, shielded from the chaos of the outside world.


    Sousturham stood majestically, adorned with luxurious mansions owned by affluent families. As a


    result, most of those who frequented the church held esteemed positions in society. However, their


    devotion and reverence while kneeling before the cross were equally fervent.


    ¡°Auntie, do you think God is real?¡± Josie fixed her gaze on the flickering candle mes, lost in


    contemtion.


    Having maintained a cynical outlook and never embraced any religious faith, Josie was now


    reconsidering her perspective after numerous life experiences. She was inclined to the appeal of such


    a possibility if praying to God could bring about a positive impact or change.


    ¡°Miracles happen when you believe Him. So, Jo, do not be wary and stop overthinking.¡± udia


    dressed modestly, wore a serene expression, and spoke with conviction. ¡°You don¡¯t have to cling onto


    what you¡¯ve lost because God will show you the way out if you truly believe in Him.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips and nodded. ¡°Knowing it as a head knowledge is one thing, but fully


    understanding and embracing it is another.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t mention anything about the incidents that caused her to leave her home and be a hermit in


    Sousturham church. udia didn¡¯t pry either, but she could tell that Josie had just gone through some


    harrowing ordeals.


    ¡°God will heal you. The sorrow in your heart will fade away with time.¡± udia held a rosary in her hand


    and asked, ¡°Does your family know that you came here?¡±


    Josie was taken aback by udia¡¯s question.


    To pacify her father, she had sent a message stating that she was on a business trip but purposefully


    omitted any mention of the Russell family. However, she had briefly exined and confided in Dexter


    that she required some solitary time away from him.


    ¡°They are aware.¡±


    udia picked up a prayer book from one of the pews and handed it to Josie. ¡°You seem troubled.


    Why don¡¯t you pray to God and tell him your concerns and see what it leads to?¡±


    Josie hesitated for a moment but decided to give it a try. She walked forward and knelt before the


    majestic stained-ss window, holding a prayer book in her hands and closing her eyes.


    ¡°God, if you are truly omniscient andpassionate, pleasefort my wounded heart and guide me


    towards healing. Help me find the strength to ovee the burdens of my past. Amen.¡±


    After uttering her prayer, Josie carefully ced the prayer book back on the pew.


    udia observed her and gently took her hand. ¡°Come, let¡¯s find sce in the tranquility of the church.


    This ce is perfect for quiet reflection and contemtion.¡±


    Despite the woman¡¯s hands showing signs of age with wrinkled skin, they exuded warmth. Josie


    followed


    behind her, feeling a sense ofpanionship and d to know she wasn¡¯t alone.


    ¡°Auntie, are your legs feeling better? Does your daughter visit you often? Josie asked.


    udia smiled warmly, her expression tinged with a hint of wistfulness. ¡°As people grow older, even in


    good health, it bes harder for them to venture far. When children grow up, they have their own


    commitments and responsibilities. Even if they visit, I can¡¯t always devote as much time to them. As


    time passes, their visits be less frequent.¡±


    Josie struggled to grasp the situation fully. If she had a mother figure like udia, she would never let


    her spend her days alone in the confines of the church.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    With a grateful heart, Josie pried, ¡°Auntie, forgive me for being blunt, but do you also yearn for


    someone or something that is out of your league?¡±


    udia raised an eyebrow, sensing a profound connection with the woman before her. It was as if


    Josie could peer into the depths of her soul.


    ¡°The person I long for is most likely never returning, udia forced a smile, her response tinged with


    sadness.


    Josic understood that this person held immense significance to udia, driving her to spend her


    remaining years within the church¡¯s walls. Sensing the weight of udia¡¯s emotions, she refrained from


    delving further.


    ¡°Find sce in this sacred space. If you seek spiritual nourishment, you can immerse yourself in the


    church¡¯s rituals, udia whispered, growing fond of Josie¡¯s gentle nature.


    Josie beamed a heartening smile, Thank you for yourpany and advice, Auntie. I findfort and


    contentment in being here.¡±

 Chapter 526

    Chapter 526


    Chapter 526 No News of Josie


    Since securing the funding. Dexter had practically made the office his second home, spending day and


    night there. Larry and the other employees had also been working tirelessly alongside him.


    ¡°Seriously¡­ he never gives us a break. Mr. Russell is pushing himself and us to the limit,¡± one of the


    employees grumbled.


    ¡°I know, right. Since ourpany secured the funding, Mr. Russell has lived in the office as if it were


    his second home.


    ¡°Maybe he can¡¯t afford to fail again¡­¡±


    Larry walked in with a stack of documents and caught wind of the employees¡¯ murmurs. He furrowed


    his brow. ¡°Don¡¯t you all have work to do? Shouldn¡¯t your focus be on your tasks rather than gossiping?¡±


    The room fell into a collective silence as everyone exchanged nces of resignation and helplessness.


    ¡°This is a critical period, and it¡¯s important for us to stay united and ovee it,¡± Larry began, intending


    to assure them that everything would improve once Josie returned. However, the words on the tip of his


    tongue transformed into, ¡°Things will take a turn for the better soon.¡±


    Whenever Dexter managed to steal a moment away from his demanding workload, he would lock


    himself In the seclusion of his private lounge within his office, lost in profound contemtion. Beyond


    the windows, the city lights painted a vibrant tapestry of countless lives and homes, reminding him of


    the familial warmth that eluded him.


    Never before had he yearned for a sense of belonging, a ce to call his own, until he met Josie. In


    her presence, he discovered a deep-rooted attachment and an earnest longing to build a sanctuary he


    could finally call home.


    How is she doing in Rivodia? What¡¯s on her mind at this very moment?


    Upon returning from the airport that day. Dexter visited his grandfather at the revered Russell Manor.


    Within the familiar walls of their ancestral home, Dexter closed his eyes, allowing the weight of Laura¡¯s


    words to settle upon his conscience.


    Regret washed over him like an unyielding tide as Old Mr. Russell confirmed the tragic incident with a


    knowing nod, ¡°Yes, what you¡¯ve heard is true.¡±


    Though they didn¡¯t delve into the specifics, Dexter knew his grandfather keenly understood the


    situation. Henry¡¯sforting hand gently rested upon Dexter¡¯s shoulder, offering sce and guidance.


    ¡°Josie is a remarkable woman. I find sce in knowing she stands by your side. Yet, in her presence, a


    twinge of unease resides within me¡±


    Dexter absorbed his grandfather¡¯s profound words, feeling their resonance within his soul.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    ¡°In the journey of life, striking a delicate bnce is key. It¡¯s all about striving for personal fulfillment


    while being mindful of the hearts we touch.¡±


    That night, abandoning thefort of his own bedroom, Dexter sat in themunal study room.


    Surrounded by the gentle whispers of raindrops on the roof, he embraced the moment for deep


    contemtion and introspection.


    In this very room, he vividly remembered the time when Josie had cried after he had angrily scolded


    her


    for identally discing Leanne¡¯s photo. Reflecting on his past behavior, Dexter realized how much


    of a jerk he had been.


    In that very moment, he finally realized the profound depth of his feelings for Josie, ingrained in the


    very core of his being.


    Two monthster.


    With the dawn of a new month, news arrived that lifted the spirits of the shareholders who had invested


    in Russell Group stocks.


    It turned out that a prominent international bank and several investment banks had injected five


    hundred million into Russell Group.


    Economy analysts believed that this substantial investment would expedite the growth of the domestic


    inte industry and rescue Russell Group from its precarious crisis.


    Well, calling it a crisis would be an exaggeration.


    After a significant period of absence, Dexter finally made his appearance before the media. He


    appeared muchposed, and with amanding gaze, he silenced the room.


    He addressed the crowd. I wee formidable rivals andpetitors on the condition that their power


    is genuine and not just empty bravado,¡±


    With that, Dexter sinctly rified his prolonged silence. Should a battle arise, he would firmly hold


    his position.


    It appeared that the man who had been subdued by life, temporarily concealing his sharpness and


    astuteness, had now resurfaced with renewed wit and strength.


    As he settled into the car, Moses nodded in understanding, fully cognizant of their intended destination.


    Dexter was swamped with work. During a discussion with Larry about a business matter, he asked


    furrowed, ¡°Do you think the Carter Group will continue their attacks?¡±


    ¡°Nope. Russell Group stocks haven¡¯t hit rock bottom. They won¡¯t take action for the time being. Dexter


    replied, feeling the pressure building.


    He had a gut feeling that the Carter Group had meticulously nned their moves and wouldn¡¯t easily


    back down. They might even escte their actions.


    ¡°Any updates?¡± Sitting in the backseat, Dexter suddenly asked.


    Larry fell silent for a moment. ¡°Not yet. Our intelligence team has been scouring Rivodia, but we


    haven¡¯t received any news.¡±


    The car came to a halt, and outside the window, the roadside trees disyed a deep shade of yellow.


    Autumn had arrived, a season that often evoked a sense of mncholy in people.

 Chapter 527

    Chapter 527


    Chapter 527 Tit for Tat


    On this asion, a social gathering was underway. Dexter personally hosted a banquet at the


    Mandarin Oriental Hotel, apanied by the top executives of Russell Group.


    Among the attendees were some of the city¡¯s most influential and affluent individuals.


    Over the past few months, Dexter had tirelessly engaged with numerous influential figures in his quest


    to revive the economy of Russell Group. Some negotiations bore fruit, while others faltered. Rest was a


    luxury he couldn¡¯t afford, as he was whollymitted to stabilizing thepany.


    As an outsider, Josie couldn¡¯t bear to witness him in a state of despair, especially considering the


    efforts she had made for him and Russell Group.


    Around the bend, a sleek ck official car with a distinctive license te glided into view. Without a


    hitch, it smoothly bypassed a police checkpoint, evading any need for a breathalyzer test.


    Then, the car pulled up before Dexter and the others. The personal assistant sprang into action,


    alighting from the vehicle and graciously opening the rear door. Stepping into view, a man in his forties


    or fifties emerged from the shadows, his face sharp and his hair graying gracefully. Leaning on the


    support of a woman, he greeted Dexter with a firm handshake, ¡°Hi, Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°We are truly honored to have you join us this evening, Mr. Perkins,¡± Caesar, Wavery¡¯s third¨Cin¨C


    command, expressed with a smile.


    Dexter reciprocated the smile until his gaze fell upon the woman beside Caesar. His smile subtly faded,


    sensing an unspoken tension in the air.


    The woman instinctively averted his scrutiny and gracefully took a step back.


    The man and woman proceeded to greet the attendees, shaking hands with the crowd. At the same


    time, Caesar directed his attention toward the grand hall of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. ¡°Choosing


    such an exquisite venue, Mr. Russell, are you trying to damage my reputation?¡±


    ¡°Everyone in Wavery knows that Mr. Perkins is renowned for his integrity and transparency. I have


    meticulously taken care of every detail. The food and beveragesply with all regtions and


    standards. Even in the event of an investigation, there won¡¯t be any issues,¡± Dexter replied with a


    subtle smile, motioning for Caesar to continue.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Caesar yfully scrutinized him for a moment before following the waiter¡¯s lead and stepping forward.


    ¡°I have witnessed Mr. Russell¡¯s capabilities, so I can certainly put my mind at ease.¡±


    Dexter had explicitly requested that no entertainment facilities be provided on the hotel¡¯s top floor.


    After three rounds of drinks, Caesar kept a clear head and disclosed the news Dexter had been eagerly


    awaiting. ¡°The Carter Group has secured the project in the city. The official announcement is set to be


    made within the next three days. To prevent any potential mistakes or loopholes that Russell Group


    could exploit, Mr. Carter has taken the preemptive step of canceling the bidding ceremony and blocking


    any possible interference.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow upon hearing this, showing little surprise, ¡°I understand. After all, Russell


    Group made mistakes in the previous project, so it¡¯s only reasonable for the higher¨Cups not to choose


    us.¡±


    He casually reached for the teapot on the table and poured tea for Caesar. ¡°Who is Arnold¡¯s immediate


    supervisor in the municipal government?¡±


    Caesar, known for his intuition and sharp senses, shook his head. ¡°We don¡¯t have the answer yet. It¡¯s


    still a mystery in Wavery


    ¡°A mystery!¡±


    Dexter took a cigarette from the box, not bothering to light it, and leisurely savored its aroma, ¡°It won¡¯t


    remain a mystery for long.


    Caesar furrowed, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°The office director¡¯s retiring soon. He¡¯s got his family all sorted for their overseas ns. He¡¯s looking to


    cash in on this project in his final days on the job. The city¡¯s putting three hundred million on the table,


    but from what I¡¯ve heard, the Carter Group¡¯s only getting a slice of up to one¨Cfifty. So, what¡¯s happening


    to the leftover moh?¡±


    Dexter deftly directed the conversation, observing Caesar¡¯s shifting expression.


    Dexter tossed the cigarette into the trash bin, keeping his thoughts hidden. ¡°Do you think Arnold can


    sessfullyplete the project with a budget of just one hundred and fifty million?¡±


    Caesar got the hint of Dexter¡¯s strategy. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re gearing up for a direct confrontation.¡°


    Dexter neither confirmed nor denied it. He nced past Caesar at the woman who had silently stood


    by all along, ¡°Mr. Perkin¡¯s assistant seems oddly familiar. I have a feeling I¡¯ve seen her before.¡±

 Chapter 528

    Chapter 528


    Chapter 528 Make Sure She¡¯s Unscathed


    Carsen


    d he let out a surprised chuckle, ¡°Ah, she used to be Mr. Carter¡¯s assistant I saw her handling things


    with finesse at an event, so I invited her to join us with Mr. Carter. I¡¯m sure Mr. R!! has crossed paths


    with her as well


    Heather,e on over and say hello to Mr. Russell


    Dressed in a sleek business suit today, Heather appeared less disheveled and moreposed. She


    avoided making direct eye contact with Dexter Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Russell¡±


    Dester leaned back, a hint of amusement in his eyes. Trecall Ms. Riley¡¯s tea¨Cmaking skills being quite


    impressive Care to showcase your talents for your new bow?¡±


    Heather felt a surge of humiliation at his words, her ears turning beet red.


    She bent down to brew the tea, her fair and delicate hands catching Caesar¡¯s attention. He couldn¡¯t


    help but appreciate their grace. ¡°I gotta say¡­ Watching young folks excel at their craft is always a


    pleasure to behold


    Dexter maintained his poker face.


    ¡°Working for the government has its perks. Following Mr. Perkins is a wiser choice than sticking with


    Mr. Carter


    Heather bit her lip. ¡°Uh¡­ Yeah.¡±


    Dexter took a quick break during the intermission and headed to the restroom. As he washed his


    hands, he nced up and noticed the woman standing behind him in the mirror.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve. If your new boss were to find out. I can imagine you¡¯ll have a tough time,¡± he


    remarked coldly.


    Heather tightly clenched her clothes, feeling misunderstood and wrongly judged. ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯ve


    completely misunderstood me. I¡¯m not that kind of person¡­¡±


    Dexter maintained his unwavering gaze at Heather¡¯s reflection in the mirror.


    ¡°I was penalized by Mr. Carter for a mistake in the United Kingdom. That¡¯s why I ended up working with


    Mr. Perkins. It¡¯s not what you¡¯re assuming.¡±


    ¡°Why bother exining it to me? It¡¯s your business with Arnold.¡±


    ¡°¡­I just don¡¯t want you to get the wrong idea about me.¡± Heather said, her voice trembling as she


    gathered her courage to raise her head. Her eyes were red and filled with tears.


    Dexter¡¯s mind flickered back to that disastrous day when everything fell apart, and a slight headache


    crept in. He turned around, nced at her, and silently walked past, leaving her words in the air. ¡°You¡¯ll


    have to face the consequences of your own actions.¡±


    As the evening drew to a close, Dexter walked alongside Caesar to his car, with Heather trailing


    behind, her eyes still shimmering with tears.


    The car sped away, and Dexter¡¯s gaze drifted into the distance, lost in his thoughts.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Larry caught up, and his voice was filled with concern. ¡°Mr. Russell, should I look into this?¡±


    Dexter gave Larry a quick sideways nce, pondering his choices. ¡°Conventional methods won¡¯t cut it


    when dealing with Arnold¡¯s rted matters. Get Moses on it instead.¡±


    When delving into covert affairs, unconventional approaches often reveal more valuable insights.


    In a sudden burst of inspiration, Larry suggested, ¡°Should we also have him look into Mrs. Russell¡¯s


    case? They had a close bond in the past, after all.¡±


    Dexter paused for a moment, a somber expression crossing his face. ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Getting into the car, he instructed, ¡°Caesar Perkins never hold back. Keep a close watch on him and


    make sure she¡¯s unscathed.¡±


    Caesar¡¯s ruthless and unpredictable way of seeking revenge had earned him quite a reputation,


    making it impossible to predict his next move,


    Dexter grappled with conflicting emotions, uncertain if his concern for Heather was rooted in guilt or a


    burgeoning sense of responsibility that had blossomed after their intimate encounter.


    Upon hearing this, Larry was taken aback, realizing that Dexter was referring to Heather, ¡°Uh, okay.¡±


    As the car drove a distance and arrived at Russell Manor, they saw a familiar figure waiting at the gate.


    Uh, it¡¯s Ms. Quorn.¡±


    Xanthe had been waiting there all night, determined to see Dexter.


    She raised her chin defiantly, her eyes filled with intensity as she locked her gaze on the back seat.


    Dexter calmly stepped out of the car, disying an icy demeanor. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Without responding to his question, Xanthe raised her hand, poised to deliver a p across his face.


    But this time, Dexter swiftly caught her hand. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡±


    ¡°Dexter Russell, you¡¯re such an ungrateful son! How could you do this to me?! I¡¯m your own mother!¡±


    Xanthe seethed with anger, struggling to maintain herposure. ¡°How dare you have someone


    sabotage my business dealings!

 Chapter 529

    Chapter 529


    Chapter 529 Never Thought of Divorce


    Desser shoved her hand away with an annoyed face, ¡°Without evidence, it¡¯s best not to make


    unfounded


    wiations


    But it was evident he had deliberately cut off the suppliers Xanthe had painstakingly established. Now,


    they all conveniently refused to work with her, making it incredibly difficult for her business to survive.


    The suppliers imed they couldn¡¯t trace the source, but Xanthe knew it was the work of Dexter, her


    supposedly loving son!


    She sneered, ¡°Well, look at you now, Dexter, how things have changed. But let¡¯s not forget, that it was


    me who supported you financially when the Russells were struggling Without my help, you are nothing


    Dexter nced sideways, a mocking smile ying on his lips. ¡°And what about before that?¡±


    Xanthe was taken aback by his imposing presence and defensively retreated, ¡°What do you


    mean?¡±


    ¡°When Rusell Group was on the verge of copse, weren¡¯t you involved in bringing it down as well?¡±


    Dexter furrowed, and a sudden realization dawned on him. ¡°Oh, and let¡¯s not forget Yanis too, One is


    my biological mother and the other is my uncle. You both never hesitated to plot against me, did you?¡±


    Xanthe was shocked, momentarily speechless. How had Dexter discovered the truth about their


    scheme?


    With a disdainful expression, he chided, ¡°You only started trying to cozy up to me after you saw that I


    didn¡¯t give up,¡±


    Dexter saw through all of her maniptive tactics and hidden motives.


    ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about. I haven¡¯t done anything!¡± She avoided eye contact, her anger


    palpable.


    ¡°What about the divorce papers you sent on my behalf to Josie? Dexter¡¯s voice rose abruptly, and


    Xanthe was shocked as she stepped back. I never once considered divorcing her. How dare you


    involve her in this!¡±


    ¡°How could you? Josie had just undergone major surgery. Xanthe Quorn. Your entire existence


    revolves around manipting others and inflicting pain!¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The mere thought of Josieing across the divorce papers while she was already going through so


    much physical and emotional turmoil filled Dexter with heartache. He never wanted to let her down.


    Who were these meddlers with no business interfering in their rtionship and creating chaos?!


    ¡°Hah. Josie?¡± Xanthe sneered. ¡°It was for your own good! Russell Group would have been doomed if


    you hadn¡¯t entered a strategic marriage with Summer Olsen then. Don¡¯t you remember that?!¡±


    ¡°If you hadn¡¯t returned to Wavery and seen Summer, how would I have had the opportunity and guts to


    manipte the divorce papers and send them to Josie?!¡±


    ¡°Now, Dexter, you understand what it¡¯s like to have your heart broken. Does that automatically make


    you innocent and absolve you of any involvement?¡±


    Standing beneath the streetlight, the man emitted an icy aura, his eyes brimming with indescribable


    pain.


    None of this would¡¯ve happened if he hadn¡¯t returned to Wavery to see Summer.


    At that time, he had callously disregarded Josie¡¯s feelings, which led to the current chaos.


    Dexter loathed himself more than anyone else.


    +5 Bonus


    Silence hung in the air as Xanthe pressed, ¡°Guess what Josie said when I handed her the divorce


    papers?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s heart constricted as if someone were squeezing it. He responded with solemnity.


    Xanthe enunciated every word, ¡°She said she would give it careful consideration.¡±


    Dexter was overwhelmed with sorrow. He closed his eyes, trying to envision the moment Josie¡¯s heart


    turned cold and deste upon seeing the divorce papers.


    After briefly pausing, he opened his eyes and gestured for Larry to pass him a folder. He extracted a


    stack of photographs from within and held them up before Xanthe. ¡°Take a good look at these and


    nevere near me again. Don¡¯t disturb Grandpa either.¡±


    Dexter tossed the photos at her.


    Xanthe frowned, her legs nearly giving way as she nced at the images. In the photos, a group of


    burly bodyguards surrounded a frail man, mercilessly beating him while hey defenseless on the


    ground.


    The pictures were crystal clear and showed evidence of injuries.


    That man was left half¨Cdead following the brutal assault


    Upon closer inspection, one could discern a resemnce to Dexter in his facial features.

 Chapter 530

    Chapter 530


    Chapter 530 Leaving Sousturham


    No¡­ No! Why did you turn to him?!¡± Xanthe cried out in anguish, her voiceced with sorrow. ¡°Dexter!


    How could you!! He¡¯s your brother, your own flesh and blood!¡±


    She dropped to her knees, desperately gathering the scattered photos and clutching them to her chest


    as if embracing her other son.


    Xanthe clutched onto Dexter¡¯s pant leg, pounding on it. ¡°You ungrateful child!¡±


    Dexter remained unmoved, coldly observing the woman who had abandoned all sense of dignity,


    consumed by heartbreak. The pain in his own heart grew even more intense.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    But his words were cutting and ruthless. ¡°From now on, if you dare to interfere in my affairs, your son


    will be in even greater danger. Mark my words.¡±


    He kicked Xanthe away and smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about moving him elsewhere. He will never be


    able to get away.¡±


    Xanthe was taken aback. In her disoriented state, she saw Dexter as nothing less than a devil


    incarnate!


    Meanwhile, at Sousturham Church.


    Josie had been living with Caludia in Sousturham for the past two months, finding sce in the


    newfound


    tranquility. Despite her physical distance, she remained dedicated to her work in the studio. She


    focused on her paintings andmunicated with her employees toplete ongoing projects.


    There was an unspoken agreement among them to keep her whereabouts secret, as they, too, were


    unaware of her current location.


    Laura persistently inquired, concerned about her safety.


    Josie kept her reasons to herself, exining that she needed time alone. Laura had no choice but to


    respect her decision. ¡°Take care of yourself. If you don¡¯t want toe back here, that¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll be


    here at the studio.¡±


    Her words had a light¨Chearted tone, but Josie couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of guilt towards Laura. She


    knew that Laura was going through a difficult time too. Finding a bnce was not an easy task. And so,


    after two months, Josie packed her things and prepared to leave Sousturham.


    Before she left, she said her goodbyes to the priest and udia, expressing her gratitude for their care.


    In return, udia gave her a Bible as a farewell gift.


    ¡°Last time, I gave you a rosary. I¡¯m giving you a Bible for your quiet moments with Him this time. Find


    peace in everything you do. You¡¯ve shown great devotion in your prayers these past few months, and


    God. listens to you and will protect you,¡± udia said.


    Josie¡¯s nose tingled, ¡°Really appreciate your kindness, Auntie.¡±


    She paused momentarily, asking, ¡°But are you sure you don¡¯t want to leave with me? It¡¯s been two


    months. Don¡¯t you want to go back home and see your family?¡±


    Every time this topic came up, udia would wear a reserved expression. She shook her head and


    replied, ¡°I don¡¯t need to worry about them. I¡¯m staying back. But you, after spending so much time with


    me. suddenly want to leave. I¡¯m feeling heavy¨Chearted to see you go so soon.¡±


    Josie shared the same feeling. She had never encountered such a nurturing elder before. udia had


    taken care of her like a mother would. So, she looked at udia sincerely and said, ¡°How I wish you


    were my mother, Auntie


    udia was taken aback, and her eyes welled up with tears.


    Josie gave a bitter smile and said. ¡°Sorry if I startled you with my sentiment. It¡¯s just that I¡¯ve never


    really known a mother¡¯s love, and I¡¯ve always felt a connection with you.¡±


    udia was about to respond when her phone suddenly rang, which she always carried along with her.


    She nced down, excused herself, and answered the call.


    Josie waited for udia patiently, understanding that they needed to pause their conversation until she


    finished the call knowing she had to leave soon.


    There were certain people and situations that Josie had been avoiding. Still, she knew deep down that


    she couldn¡¯t avoid them forever.


    udia¡¯s phone call seemed to drag on, and when she finally hung up, she wore a troubled expression


    mixed with a hint of anticipation. She smiled at Josie and said, ¡°Remember you¡¯ve just suggested we


    leave Sousturham together? My daughter just called with an urgent matter that needs my attention.


    Looks like we can travel together.¡±


    Josie was taken aback but also thrilled, ¡°Really? That¡¯s great! Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    udia hadn¡¯t heard from her daughter in two months, and now she was being called home. It seemed


    an important matter that only someone like udia could handle as an elder.

 Chapter 531

    Chapter 531


    Chapter 531 Carter Group¡¯s Complexities


    udia and Josie departed Sousturham together.


    As they reached a crossroad, a ck car awaited them. The driver stepped out, giving Josie an extra


    nce, and said, ¡°Good morning, Mrs. Hadey,¡±


    udia looked at Josie, silently asking if she wanted a ride in her car.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Josie smiled and shook her head. ¡°I have a friending to pick me up. See you next time, Auntie.¡±


    udia nodded understanding, got into the car with the driver, and soon drove off.


    The driver couldn¡¯t help but be curious, ¡°Mrs. Hadey, that woman¡­¡±


    udia¡¯s smile faded, and she pursed her lips as she settled into the car. She exuded an imposing


    aura and replied, ¡°Just a visitor to the church who happened to be on the way.¡±


    The driver understood and refrained from asking further questions.


    Meanwhile, Josie stood in ce, contemting the recent events. Something was intriguing about


    udia¡¯s family-they seemed well-off.


    Lost in her thoughts, a ck SUV swiftly approached her, stopping by her side.


    The window rolled, revealing a woman wearing sunsses who yfully whistled at her. ¡°Hey,


    beautiful! Need a ride?¡±


    Josie chuckled and settled into the passenger seat. ¡°Do you pick up men like this all the time?¡±


    Laura removed her sunsses and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Back in my prime, I could easily have ten male


    escorts eating out of the palm of my hand in a single night. And none of them could escape my charm.


    and fell head over heels with me.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter. Only Laura would make such daring and unapologetic


    ims.


    After theughter subsided, Laura drove toward the city center, her demeanor bing solemn. She


    nced at Josie with reservation, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier that you were in Sousturham? I


    thought you had left the city.¡±


    Confused, Josie furrowed her brow. ¡°Why would I leave the city?¡±


    Laura¡¯s tone grew more cautious. ¡°Well¡­ when they couldn¡¯t find you with Dexter, the information they


    received was that you had gone to Rivodia.¡±


    There seemed to be a misunderstanding in the information. Josie fell into reflective silence.


    Laura continued, her voice tinged with a hint of sheepishness, ¡°He was actually about to board a ne


    to Rivodia to find you, but I managed to stop him. I got so worked up on your behalf and spilled


    everything to him. But he did look genuinely remorseful, though.¡±


    Josie finally showed a flicker of reaction, though herposure remained intact.


    She didn¡¯t let Laura¡¯s idental blunder bother her. Josie knew that Laura had spilled the beans about


    the actual events- her being in a car ident and her encounter with Mark.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you mad, Josie!¡± Laura noticed her seemingly indifferent demeanor, which appeared even more


    detached than before.


    ¡°No, he was bound to find out anyway. It¡¯s better to know sooner thanter, Josie smiled. ¡°Why the rush


    for me toe back? Is something urgent happening at the studio?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve made some initial progress on the project Dexter handed over to us. We need to n our next


    steps. I heard that Carter Group has taken on a project from the city and is looking to assemble a


    design team. I think we should give it a shot,¡± Laura said as she drove.


    Josie furrowed her brow. She wasn¡¯t keen on getting involved with Arnold¡¯s project.


    ¡°Let¡¯s forget about it and explore other options. Carter Group is known for theirplex dealings, and


    we don¡¯t want to get in over our heads.¡±


    Laura nced at her in the rearview mirror. ¡°Josie, is it Dexter that you¡¯re concerned about?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t deny that she had considered that aspect. Still, her reservations were more about her


    lack of trust in Carter Group. She pondered momentarily, unsure how to exin theplexities


    involved.


    ¡°Alright. How about I make contact first? If I detect any risks or red gs on those projects, we¡¯ll back


    out, okay?¡±


    Laura was determined not to give up without even trying. She was known for her ambition and


    fearlessness.


    Josie considered Laura¡¯s suggestion, appreciating her support and willingness to take the lead.


    Ultimately. she didn¡¯t refuse and decided to go along with it.


    Laura inquired, ¡°Where are you headed?¡±


    Josie understood the underlying meaning behind the question. She paused momentarily before


    responding. Tm visiting my father. I bet he must be worried sick about me.¡±


    Dexter is also very worried about you.


    Laura had the inclination to say it to Josie but ultimately refrained. She chose to keep quiet about the


    incidents in which Dexter had been relentlessly trying to locate where Josie had been.

 Chapter 532

    Chapter 532


    Chapter 532 Birthday Banquet


    Today was significant for Summer as it marked her birthday, symbolizing her rise within the Olsen


    family.


    Since taking the reins, more and more people began to grasp the true importance of this youngdy.


    To honor her, a special feature titled ¡®From Researcher to Heiress- The Summer Olsen¡¯s Journey¡¯ was


    created,vishing her withmends, as society loves witnessing capable socialites in action.


    The Olsen family¡¯s unconventional decision to ce their daughter in charge of family affairs rather


    than the eldest son stirred up a whirlwind of gossip and fascination. This public appearance was


    Summer¡¯s first since returning to the country. Mark spared no effort in organizing a grand celebration.


    Guests had been streaming in since the afternoon, and the room was filled with gifts from high-ranking


    officials and dignitaries.


    However, truly meaningful celebrations for Summer¡¯s birthday were few and far between.


    Nearly every guest at the banquet tonight was engaging in social interactions solely driven by their


    personal interests, and Summer was acutely aware of this fact.


    ¡°What time is it? Why hasn¡¯t Dex arrived yet?¡±


    Summer gathered her dress and walked toward the window, hoping to spot Dexter¡¯s car pulling up


    outside. Much to her disappointment, it was not in view


    A vignt servant looked up and informed her, ¡°Ms. Olsen, Mr. Russell has left a gift for you.¡±


    The servant hesitated to finish the sentence. Mr. Russell¡¯s probably noting.


    Summer furrowed her brow, ¡°What gift?¡±


    The packaging was exquisite, revealing a valuable ne, and to her, it was nothing extraordinary


    for a typical birthday gift.


    Summer¡¯s anger surged as she examined the ne, causing her to fling the gift onto the ground.


    ¡°Why on earth would I need a ne?¡±


    The servant dared not utter a word. Suddenly, her eyes lit up as she spotted a potential savior, ¡°Mrs.


    Olsen!¡±


    Summer looked up and saw udia approaching with a ss of water. Still, she remained silent.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    udia donned a petite Chanel-style jacket paired with an elegant skirt. She nced at the discarded


    ne and stooped down to retrieve it. ¡°Not fancy it? Let me unwrap another one for you.¡±


    She casually unwrapped another gift, eximing, ¡°Oh, check this out. It¡¯s a Picasso painting. It¡¯s totally


    your style. Let¡¯s see who sent it¡­ Oh, it¡¯s from Arnold. Man, as usual, Arnold is super generous to


    you!¡±


    This painting actually sold for a crazy amount at a Sotheby¡¯s auction.


    Arnold insisted it was a simple gift, showcasing his incredible generosity.


    Summer nced at it briefly and said, ¡°Not really my thing. Even if Dex handed me a leaf, I would


    appreciate it because it¡¯s from him. But even if Arnold gave me an entire city, I still wouldn¡¯t like it.¡±


    Her preference was crystal clear.


    udia shook her head and ced the artwork aside. ¡°Hey, you gotta know. Having someone like


    Arnold spoil you like this is not an everyday urrence. You¡¯re lucky and blessed, Summer. And


    remember. Dexter is a married man now.¡±


    Hearing this, Summer instantly felt a pang of injustice. ¡°Mom, are you also trying to give me away to


    Arnold, just like Dad?¡±


    udia gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. ¡°I hope you can live a life that is simple, uplicated,


    and filled with happiness. I never intended for you to be the Olsen Group¡¯s heir and carry the


    Olsen family¡¯s weight.¡±


    Summer pursed her lips, feeling a hint of resistance. ¡°I can handle it.¡±


    Observing her reaction, udia refrained from saying anything further. She wasn¡¯t fond of overly


    festive asions, but today was a significant day for Summer, so she had to be there.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen your brother and sister-inw since my return. Do you know where they are?¡±


    Summer¡¯s expression turned slightly peculiar. ¡°How would I know? I¡¯m going downstairs now, my


    guests should have all arrived.¡±


    ¡°Eh¡­ udia watched Summer walk away, and Mark¡¯s voice reached her just then. ¡°Alright. Enough


    already. Just let her be.¡±


    She turned around. ¡°By the way, Zach and Laura, are they not home?¡±


    Mark¡¯s expression appeared somewhat secretive. He took her hand and said, ¡°Young people have their


    own matters to attend to. They¡¯ll be backter. Let¡¯s go downstairs. Don¡¯t keep Summer and the guests


    waiting.¡±

 Chapter 533

    Chapter 533


    Chapter 533 Deliberate Troubles


    The courtyard of the Olsen Residence was abuzz with activity as guests dressed to the nines mingled,


    raised their sses, and immersed themselves in delightful conversations.


    Subsequently, Summer made her entrance, apanied by Mark and udia.


    She was d in an elegant sea blue gown, her hair elegantly swept up and adorned with a crown,


    radiating a dazzling beauty befitting an actual princess. Her radiant charm and elevated status stirred


    both envy and adoration among the guests.


    With the candles extinguished on the extravagant three-tiered cake, Summer addressed the crowd,


    saying, ¡°Moving forward, I hope that each and every one of you will continue to support and be my ally


    in this incredible journey in Wavery. Cheers!¡±


    The audience erupted in a wave of apuse, their excitement palpable.


    ¡°Oh, and by the way,¡± she added, ¡°I have an important announcement in store. Please stay tuned.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The guests were puzzled. Mark and udia exchanged nces and whispered to her, ¡°Stop messing


    around, Sum.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not messing around. You¡¯ll find out soon,¡± Summer shed a peculiar smile, then looped her arm


    through Mark¡¯s.


    ¡°Dad, let¡¯s go around and toast our guests.¡±


    Mark furrowed his brow, reluctant but eventually resolved to join her. After all, making a toast was a


    way to forge connections and amon practice in business settings.


    udia remained in her spot, surveying the surroundings, and spotted a familiar figure approaching


    her.


    ¡°Good evening, Auntie udia. It¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve seen each other,¡± Arnold said, his smile lit


    up his face.


    ¡°Arnold,¡± udia spoke gently, ¡°d to see you grace Sum¡¯s birthday.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mention, Auntie. I gotta admit I haven¡¯t been the best when ites to proper etiquette recently.


    I didn¡¯t want to bother you during your time away in Sousturham. I hope you don¡¯t mind that I haven¡¯t


    visited,¡± Arnold leaned casually against the railing, with one hand resting on it.


    ¡°Not at all. On the contrary, I want to thank you. It was because of you that Summer had the chance to


    be in London a few years ago, udia expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°It¡¯s my pleasure.¡± Arnold slipped his hand into his pocket and nced at the woman skillfully


    navigating the crowd. ¡°Plus, it was Auntie¡¯s special request, so naturally, I obliged.¡±


    udia disyed a tinge of guilt and then inquired, ¡°Have you encountered any other intriguing girls in


    ¡ªrecent years?¡±


    The emphasis on the word ¡®other¡¯ was quite pronounced.


    Arnold grinned, ¡°Auntie, my feelings for Summer haven¡¯t changed a bit.¡±


    udia let out a sigh, ¡°What a shame for her. I hope she¡¯ll soon realize and reciprocate your sincerity


    and


    love for her.¡±


    They then turned their gaze towards Summer, but suddenly, amotion erupted.


    Meanwhile, Caesar and Heather were among the guests at Summer¡¯s birthday banquet. While pouring


    wine for Summer, Heather identally spilled some on her dress. Startled, Summer red up and


    used. ¡°Ms. Riley, I know you did that on purpose!¡±


    Caesar and Mark exchanged nces, momentarily taken aback and didn¡¯t know how to react.


    Heather promptly offered to clean it up, saying. Tm sorry, Ms. Olsen. It was an ident! I¡¯ll make it up


    to


    you.


    ¡°This dress was custom-made for me in Italy, with a month¡¯s effort put into it. Can you really afford to


    pay for it, Ms. Riley?¡± Summer¡¯s expression turned displeased.


    Heather nced at Caesar, her eyes pleading for help, and thetter intervened to diffuse the situation,


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, I apologize for my assistant¡¯s reckless behavior. I willpensate you for the dress after


    the event concludes.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I care about the petty money?¡± Summer sneered. ¡°It seems Mr. Perkins is quite fond of


    your clumsy assistant.¡±


    Some guests picked up her ambiguous insinuation, and whispers began to circte.


    Heather bowed her head, her face burning with abashment.


    Summer didn¡¯t yield but continued ridiculing. ¡°And as far as I know, Mr. Perkins doesn¡¯t earn much, do


    you? Yet you seem unconcerned aboutpensating for my expensive dress on behalf of your


    assistant. What¡¯s the deal between you two?¡±


    Mark¡¯s expression gradually soured. He held Summer¡¯s hand and suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s change your dress


    first. We can discuss thister.¡±


    Summer visibly calmed down after Mark intervened. She approached Heather and stated, ¡°Ms. Riley, I.


    don¡¯t want your money. Instead, I¡¯d like you to be a server, going around and serving drinks to my


    guests.

 Chapter 534

    Chapter 534


    Chapter 534 Had Dexter Rushed Into His Previous Marriage?


    Heather¡¯s humiliation was palpable. Her ears burned as she felt the disdainful stares of the crowd bore


    into


    her.


    Caesar¡¯s jaw tightened, muscles twitching as he tried to contain his anger. ¡°Ms. Riley,¡± he said, his


    voice tight with barely suppressed rage. ¡°You should make up for your mistake by following Ms. Olsen¡¯s


    orders.¡±


    Heather bit her lip so hard that she tasted blood. ¡°I will,¡± she responded, her voice barely above a


    whisper.


    Heather raised the bottle of wine and approached the crowd. ¡°More wine?¡± she asked, her voice small


    and uncertain.


    ¡°Excuse me, sir,¡± she called to the passersby, her voice trembling. ¡°Would you like more wine?¡±


    ¡°Hello¡­¡±


    An ufortable silence hung in the air, broken only by Summer¡¯s smirk as she watched the scene


    unfold.


    ¡°This is nonsense!¡± udia said, wanting to offer her help to the youngdy, but Arnold held her back.


    She lifted her head as a Mercedes Benz pulled up to the Olsens¡¯ house. The driver got out and opened


    the door for a man in a ck suit. He had a calm air of confidence that stood out in the crowd.


    ¡°Dex!¡± Summer eximed excitedly, holding onto the dress as she sprinted towards him. ¡°What


    happened to your dress?¡±


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    Summer stood frozen, her smirk fading as she recalled what had happened earlier.


    Dexter scanned the crowd, his gaze falling on Heather, whose face was pale. His eyebrows raised at


    the realization of what had happened before he arrived.


    ¡°Why are you making such a big deal out of a small mistake like this?¡± Dexter teased, grabbing her


    hands and leading her into the Olsens¡¯ residence.


    Summer¡¯s lips spread into a wide grin as she stared at their interlocked hands. Although Dexter didn¡¯t


    think much of it, it made her heart swell. ¡°Dex, it¡¯s my birthday today,¡± she said sweetly. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you


    spare me the embarrassment?¡±


    He immediately let go of her hands when they arrived before Heather. ¡°You¡¯ll have to face the


    consequences for ruining Ms. Olsen¡¯s dress,¡± he announced. ¡°Apologize to Ms. Olsen, and we¡¯ll let you


    off the hook.¡±


    Summer¡¯s words were caught in her throat as she tried to process Dexter¡¯s behavior. ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes darted up to Dexter¡¯s, then skittered away to Summer¡¯s. ¡°Ms. Olsen, I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she


    quavered. ¡°It wasn¡¯t intentional, I promise.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes flicked to the crowd, then back to Heather. She knew she couldn¡¯t make a scene.


    ¡°Alright, you can go now,¡± she concluded.


    Heather shot Dexter a grateful look before disappearing into the crowd.


    Summer turned her attention to Dexter. ¡°What took you so long? I was starting to think you weren¡¯t


    coming,¡± she continued, her voice dripping with honey.


    Dexter¡¯s jaw clenched at her kind and sweet fa?ade, but he kept his cool. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t miss your birthday.


    I heard Aunt udia hase back,¡± Dexter said, changing the subject. ¡°I should go find her.¡±


    Dexter had onlye to the party because he¡¯d gotten a call from his secretary saying that Heather


    was in trouble.


    Dexter¡¯s face twisted into a sneer, but he knew he had to help Heather. ¡°Fine,¡± he uttered. ¡°Take me to


    her.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s conscience weighed heavily on him due to the incident in the United Kingdom. He knew he


    had to make it up to Heather and get it over as soon as possible.


    His only reason foring to the Olsen residence was to help Heather.


    The sight of Summer and Dexter together sparked a flurry of gossip and spection. Everyone


    wondered if Dexter had rushed into his previous marriage and if he was having an affair with Summer.


    Dexter and Summer¡¯s bodynguage was very suggestive.


    udia knew Dexter didn¡¯te to the party because of her daughter. He was there for someone else.


    They had not seen each other in a long time. udia had deliberately avoided him in the past as she


    would be reminded of the painful past that was too hard to bear.

 Chapter 535

    Chapter 535


    Chapter 535 Laura in Danger


    Summer flounced off to change, leaving Dexter and udia alone. udia smiled at Dexter and said,


    ¡°Thank you for taking care of Summer. She can be quite a handful.¡±


    Dexter understood what she was implying behind her words. He knew why she had avoided him all


    these years.


    ¡°It¡¯s part of my responsibility,¡± Dexter said simply.


    Arnold had been listening to their conversation the whole time. He finally spoke up, his smile dripping


    with sarcasm. ¡°I never knew you were so protective, Dex.¡±


    Dexter raised his eyebrows in derision. ¡°Of course, I had to protect her,¡± he said firmly, his voice rising.


    ¡°She¡¯s my responsibility. D


    Dexter smoothly changed the subject, effectively cutting Arnold off.


    Arnold¡¯s lips tightened into a thin line, and he remained silent.


    Dexter raised his ss in a toast to Arnold. ¡°Congrattions on your new project,¡± he said in a


    courteous


    manner.


    Arnold¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. ¡°You must have your sources,¡± Arnold said as he leveled his gaze at


    him,


    ¡°It¡¯ll only get more efficient, Dexter responded, taking arge gulp of wine.


    It was ten at night, and Josie was fast asleep.


    Josie had a regr sleep schedule.


    Josie was jolted awake by her phone ringing. She furrowed her brow as she answered the phone. It


    was


    Laura.


    With her palms stered on her forehead, Josie pinched her eyebrows when she finally registered


    Laura¡¯s name on the screen of her phone. It waste at night, and Laura only called her thiste if


    there was a problem at work. She answered the call with a worried sigh.


    Her stomach churned with dread and anxiety when she heard Laura¡¯s crying on the other end of the


    line.


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    Laura was sobbing so hard that she could barely speak.


    Josie sat up in bed, her eyes wide with rm. ¡°Laura?!¡±


    ¡°Josie, I¡¯m so scared, Laura quavered, her voice breaking.


    ¡°Laura, calm down,¡± Josie responded, her voice firm. ¡°Where are you right now?¡± She swept her hair


    out of her face and asked in a frantic tone. ¡®Give me the address. I¡¯ll be there as soon as I can. Don¡¯t


    panic¡±


    Laura¡¯s mind was in disarray, and her clothes were stained with tear marks.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank as she listened to Laura¡¯s tearful cries. She quickly got out of bed, changed her


    clothes, and left her house in her bedroom slippers. She was determined to find Laura and help her.


    As Josie was trying to get a sense of Laura¡¯s situation, Laura said out of the blue. ¡°Josie, you don¡¯t


    have to find me. I¡¯ll be fine


    1/2


    Mon, Aug


    Chapter 535 Laura in Danger


    Josie stopped in her tracks, her anger rising. ¡°Where are you right now? Do you want to die?¡±


    The air was thick with tension. All Josie could hear was Laura¡¯s panicked breathing.


    ¡°You¡¯re at the Olsen¡¯s residence, aren¡¯t you?¡± Josie was sure of it.


    Josie took Laura¡¯s silence as a sign of agreement and darted downstairs in her slippers. ¡°I¡¯ll be there


    soon,¡±


    she announced.


    ¡°Don¡¯te here,¡± a faint and raspy voice said through the phone. ¡°It¡¯s Summer¡¯s birthday today.¡±


    Josie¡¯s footsteps came to a halt. After a moment, she said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll take care of this,¡±


    She hung up the call and booked a taxi on her phone. Later, she browsed the web and saw several


    photos from Summer¡¯s birthday party that had been posted online.


    ¡°The Olsen residence?¡± the cab driver asked, surprised.


    Josie clutched her phone tightly. ¡°Yes,¡± she answered.


    The taxi Josie hailed looked out of ce in the opulent vi. The sound of music and conversation


    wafted from within as if another worldy beyond the gates,


    After paying the taxi fare, Josie felt a pang of regret as she looked down at her slippers.


    At that very instant, a delivery man in uniform arrived at the vi. Josie stopped him in his tracks. ¡°Hi,


    those are mine.¡±


    The delivery man handed her the items and was about to leave when she called out to him. ¡°Hey, can


    you sell me your uniform?¡±


    I¡¯ll pay you three times the price.¡±

 Chapter 536

    Chapter 536


    Chapter 536 Sneaking Into the Olsen Residence


    Josie walked in, wearing a uniform several sizes too big for her.


    ¡°Hold on there!¡± the guard demanded, surprised to see delivery food at such avish event.


    ¡°Delivery,¡± Josie announced, her voice barely audible through her mask.


    ¡°Hand it over,¡± the guard said, ncing at the receipt on the paper bag without looking inside.


    Josie¡¯s heart was pounding so hard that she thought it would burst out of her chest. She had written


    Arnold¡¯s name as the buyer when she ordered the delivery food.


    She knew that Arnold would definitely attend Summer¡¯s birthday party.


    The guard dialed the phone number written on the receipt.


    Josie¡¯s heart was in her throat as she clutched her phone. She was ready to make a break for it if the


    guard didn¡¯t let her in.


    The guard eyed Josie suspiciously as the phone rang.


    After a moment, Arnold answered the call. The guard¡¯s tone changed to one of polite deference as he


    said, ¡°Mr. Carter, there¡¯s a delivery for you. I¡¯d like to confirm with you if it is yours.¡±


    Josie squeezed her eyes shut and inhaled deeply.


    ¡°Alright, sure,¡± the guard responded, hanging up the phone and looking at Josie.


    Her hands were sweating profusely as she waited for the guard¡¯s response. ¡°Why would I lie?¡± she


    asserted calmly.


    Josie was surprised when the guard nodded at her. ¡°He¡¯ll be here shortly. You can stay here and wait,¡±


    he announced.


    Sure enough, Arnold was there.


    After a few moments, Arnold emerged from the crowd. He was dressed casually, in a youthful style. He


    wore a sweater and jeans, and he also had a chain around his neck.


    Arnold walked towards Josie and circled around her, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he sized


    her up Josie kept her head down, her face hidden from view.


    ¡°Delivery?¡± Arnold asked with a smirk. ¡°Pass it here.¡±


    Josie handed him the paper bag and held onto his index finger with a firm grip. Her eyes grew soft as


    she gazed up at him


    Amold¡¯s face broke into a wide grin, which looked especially bright under the streetlights


    Amold told the guard, She¡¯ll being in with me


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    The guard nodded Alright, Mr. Carter


    as


    Josie leis a sigh of def she followed Arnold closely As soon as she was our of the quand¡¯s sight, she


    ckly tick of the delivery man¡¯s


    farm


    Arnold paused and pulled down her mask. ¡°Ms. Delivery Lady, you sure have some impressive tricks


    up your sleeve,¡± he said amusedly, raising an eyebrow at her.


    As soon as she raised her head, she saw Arnold opening the paper bag and taking out the container of


    fruits. Without a second thought, he picked up his fork and ate the fruits.


    Josie quickly stopped him. That¡¯s enough!¡± she eximed.


    Arnold nced at her, a smirk ying on his lips. ¡°You must really trust me to put my name on the bill,¡±


    he responded.


    She was at her wit¡¯s end, and this was the only option left. Josie didn¡¯t bother to exin herself as she


    continued to pack her things. ¡°Is Zach here today?¡±


    Arnold stayed silent, his mouth full of mangoes. ¡°No,¡± he mumbled.


    Josie¡¯s face clouded over. ¡°What about Laura?¡± she asked.


    She¡¯s not here either,¡± Arnold said, his voice t.


    Five minutes passed, and Arnold finally understood Josie¡¯s concerns. His face turned dark as a


    thundercloud. ¡°Wait here,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll go around and find them.¡±


    Josie grabbed his hands abruptly. ¡°Don¡¯t go by yourself,¡± she said. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. Let me go with


    you.¡±


    He took her around the corners of the residence and passed by the garden where everyone was


    gathered. Josie kept her head down the whole time to avoid attracting attention. Suddenly, they heard


    someone call out, ¡°Arnold.¡±


    They stood frozen on the spot, not knowing what to do next.

 Chapter 537

    Chapter 537


    Chapter 537 Why Is She Here?


    The woman who approached them radiated confidence and elegance. Her lips curled into a warm smile


    as she inquired, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes darted around but eventually met the woman¡¯s gaze. She froze with a hint of nervousness


    as she stared at udia. udia lookedpletely different from the two months they had spent


    together.


    Her eyes exuded a strong charisma.


    Josie¡¯s mask covered her face, so udia didn¡¯t seem to be able to identify her.


    Arnold was quick to respond, trying to deflect attention away from Josie. ¡°She¡¯s my assistant,¡± he said


    firmly. ¡°She¡¯s here to give me a status update.¡±


    As always, udia was warm and kind. She nced at Josie and said, ¡°It must be tiring to work until


    thiste. You two can go ahead and finish your work.¡±


    Josie¡¯s feet shuffled together as she tried to keep her bedroom slippers hidden.


    Arnold politely asked, ¡°Aunt udia, I have an urgent matter to take care of. Could we borrow your


    study room for a short while?¡±


    udia considered Arnold¡¯s request for a moment as she looked at the crowd. ¡®T¡¯ll have the maid take


    you to the study room in our guest room. There¡¯s aputer there.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Arnold took Josie upstairs. Her mind was a jumble of confusion. From the way udia spoke, it


    seemed like she was practically one of the Olsen family.


    She was still trying to make sense of what had transpired in such a short time. They hadn¡¯t seen each


    other for a day, and now they were meeting in such an unexpected way.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Arnold, Josie called after him as they walked up the stairs. ¡°Who was that woman?¡±


    Arnold answered matter-of-factly, ¡°Haven¡¯t you met her before? She¡¯s part of the Olsen family. She¡¯s


    Summer¡¯s mother.¡± He then continued to exin, ¡°She¡¯s been spending most of her time in the


    mountains, so she rarely meets anyone. I guess it¡¯s normal for you not to know her.¡±


    Josie¡¯s forehead creased. She would never have guessed that the woman who had gotten along so


    well with her was Summer¡¯s mother. She was destined to be her adversary.


    Josie even said that she would be happy if she were her mother.


    Now that she had reflected on her actions in the past, she felt utterly ashamed. How could she consider


    her as her mother?


    Upon reaching the second floor, they heard a familiar voice echoing from down the hall. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s steps faltered nervously


    Arnold turned to look at her


    The man in front of them was someone she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time. He had a quiet and collected air


    And the woman standing before him was ady in a cocktail dress. Her eyes were lowered, and her


    natural charisma was undeniable. ¡°Mr. Russell, thank you for helping me just now,¡± she said sincerely.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it for you,¡± Dexter responded, his eyes darting away from her, his face devoid of any


    emotion.


    Heather was no longer the timid girl she used to be. She stood with her hands behind her back and


    smiled at him with a yful grin. ¡°I know you did it for me,¡± she spoke in a delicate and sweet voice.


    The man kept his cool, refusing to acknowledge her ims. ¡°No,¡± he said firmly.


    Heather leaned in closer to him. ¡°You must feel guilty for mistaking me for Josie, so you helped me


    escape Ms. Olsen¡¯s outburst.¡±


    That one sentence contained too much critical information, and Josie was left reeling in shock and


    confusion.


    Dexter¡¯s forehead creased into a tight knot as he exined, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it. It¡¯s Summer¡¯s


    birthday today. I can¡¯t miss it.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it a strange coincidence that you arrived right on time? You were here the moment Summer


    was boiling with rage and had no intent of backing down.¡±


    Heather¡¯s gaze lifted to meet his eyes, her body inching closer to him.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I interpret it such that Mr. Russell was here to save me?¡±


    Arnold stared into Josie¡¯s eyes, and his gaze deepened with worry.


    Josie gave a strained smile as she said under her breath, ¡°Let¡¯s go in. We don¡¯t have much time left.¡±


    She should have expected Dexter to be here on such an asion.


    However, she could never have predicted meeting him under these circumstances, leaving her


    confused by the sudden revtion.


    Arnold pushed the door open to the study and held it open for Josie to enter.

 Chapter 538

    Chapter 538


    Chapter 538 Found the Hidden Basement


    Dexter moved away from Heather after Josie entered the room and said, ¡°You¡¯re right, but that¡¯s the


    extent of my gratitude.¡±


    Heather was left stunned by his coldness.


    After they entered the study, Josie took a deep breath and tried to calm herself down. ¡°Why did you


    request to enter the study room?¡±


    Arnold took off his coat and covered the security cameras. He then started to search the room. ¡°I lived


    in the Olsen residence in the past and found a secret basement that sounds like the one you¡¯re talking


    about. I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s the same one.¡±


    Josie raised her eyebrows in surprise and started to search around.


    Arnold spoke in a hushed tone, ¡°How long has Laura been physically abused?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been happening for a while. I thought she was getting better after introducing her to a therapist, but


    I never imagined that Zach would still abuse her.¡±


    Her fury rose as she described what had happened to Arnold.


    Arnold scoffed, ¡°You should have introduced the therapist to Zach.


    He tried to move a nt in the corner, but it was too heavy.


    ¡°I never thought someone so kind could have such a violent side to him,¡± Arnold added. He would


    never hit a woman, despite his flirty personality.


    Josie was feeling extremely pressed for time. She knew that Laura was in greater danger with each


    passing


    moment.


    The garden downstairs was a different world. Everyone was lost in conversation, the music providing a


    backdrop to their chatter.


    They spent twenty minutes trying to find the way to unlock the stairway to the hidden basement, but


    they were unsessful. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door-it was udia. ¡°Arnold, is everything


    alright? Do you need any assistance?¡±


    Arnold exchanged nces with Josie.


    After a moment, he opened the door. ¡°Aunt udia, we¡¯re still working on the issue. It might take some


    time


    udia paused for a moment, mulling over his words. She peered through the small opening of the


    door and saw Josie typing on theputer nonstop,


    Oh, I was just wondering if you would like me to call your uncle over


    ¡°The¡¯s no need to get Uncle Mark involved I can handle this myself Arnold replied


    Meanwhile Summer had changed into a new dress and noticed her mother speaking to Arnold She


    frowned and aked. ¡°What are you doing, Mom!


    ry wide with fear, as she heard Summer¡¯s voice


    Found the Hidden Basement


    ¡°Nothing much. I¡¯m just chatting with Arnold.¡±


    Summer¡¯s brow snapped together as she directed her question to Arnold. ¡°What are you doing in the


    study room?¡±


    ¡°Work,¡± he said curtly.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Josie sprang to her feet when the door closed. ¡°Do you think udia knows about Laura being


    abused?¡±


    Arnold shook his head. ¡°She¡¯s probably not aware of it. She wasn¡¯t here for their wedding, and she¡¯s


    not the type who would turn a blind eye to something like that


    Hearing Arnold¡¯s reassurance of her character, Josie sighed in relief.


    The two of them continued searching for the hidden basement entrance. As Josie looked around the


    bookshelf, she noticed that one of the books wasn¡¯t an actual book. Her forehead creased as she tried


    to turn the book around. To her surprise, the bookshelf began to slide open, and a door appeared


    before them.


    Arnold and Josie exchanged nces. ¡°It¡¯s the hidden basement,¡± he muttered in awe.


    The lights in the hidden basement were dim, and the air was stale. It took them five minutes to reach


    the bottom, where they found arge space well-stocked with food and water. As they walked deeper


    into the basement, the lights became dimmer.


    Arnold gripped a bat, keeping an eye out for danger.


    ¡°Laura?¡± Josie called out cautiously.


    All of a sudden, she heard someone panting from a distance.

 Chapter 539

    Chapter 539


    Chapter 539 Couldn¡¯t Leave


    She followed the sound of the voice with urgency, and she saw a woman in the corner of the basement.


    ¡°Laura!¡± Josie shouted as she sped towards her.


    Josie knelt down to see how she was doing.


    Hopelessness etched on her face as if the world had crumbled upon her.


    As soon as she saw Josie, her eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. ¡°Josie,¡± she whimpered.


    Josie could feel her tears welling up as she looked at Laura¡¯s back. Laura¡¯s clothes were torn, and her


    bare skin was covered in red marks.


    The crisscross of bloody marks was a testament to the brutal beatings she had suffered.


    Josie was frozen in ce, and her eyes brimmed with tears. ¡°Laura¡­


    Arnold¡¯s forehead wrinkled in disgust at the ghastly sight. ¡°Zach must be crazy!¡±


    As he looked around, he saw an array of weapons used to abuse her. Arnold felt a shiver run down his


    spine as he saw some of them stained with blood.


    Josie tried to lift Laura up. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll take you out of here. We¡¯ll go see a doctor. You¡¯ll get better,


    Laura,¡±


    Laura said breathlessly, ¡°I can¡¯t leave now.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Summer¡¯s birthday today. Zach wouldn¡¯t let you get away with taking me out of here.¡±


    Josie looked at Arnold, her eyes filled with worry: ¡°What do we do now?¡± she asked.


    Arnold nodded. ¡°There are a lot of people outside, including reporters. She can¡¯t go out now,¡± he


    responded, taking out his phone. T¡¯ll get someone here Just wait a bit.¡±


    Josie hugged Laura tightly, but her body was still shivering. She couldn¡¯t warm her up no matter how


    close she held her.


    After ten minutes, Arnold looked at them. ¡°I called Andy to get a doctor in here. They¡¯ll being in


    disguise. They mustn¡¯t get caught.¡±


    Josie was surprised by his ns. ¡°So you mean Laura can¡¯t leave this ce?¡± she blurted, her voice


    cracking.


    ¡°Zach coulde in here at any time. We can¡¯t take her out of here today.¡±


    Laura held onto Josie¡¯s sleeve as she nodded in assent to Arnold¡¯s suggestion. ¡°He¡¯s right. I can¡¯t leave


    today,¡± she muttered, her breath growing thin.


    Arnold¡¯s n was the only one that seemed feasible at the moment.


    Andy was exceptionally efficient. He had the doctor disguise themselves as an employee of the Carter


    Group and arrive at the hidden basement.


    However, it was difficult to ignore Arnold¡¯s atypical behavior.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Arnold seems to be up to something,¡± Larry said, his eyes tracking Arnold¡¯s secretary,


    Andy, as he rushed into the Olsen residence.


    Dexter looked at him and ordered, ¡°Have someone keep an eye on him.¡±


    ¡°What about us?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll stay put.¡±


    In the hidden basement, the doctor carefully took the medical supplies from his bag and said, ¡°Ms.


    Brandel, I can¡¯t administer anesthesia under these conditions. I¡¯ll need you to bear with the pain.¡±


    She almost passed out from the excruciating pain when he ced the gauze pad soaked in antiseptic


    on her skin.


    Josie couldn¡¯t bear watching her in pain. She turned around and quickly wiped away her tears.


    Arnold stared at her, letting out a big sigh. He lifted his hands but paused midway. Eventually, he patted


    her on the shoulders tofort her.


    Josie swore under her breath, ¡°He¡¯s a f*cking monster!¡±


    Andy felt his pulse throbbing in his ears as he muttered, ¡°Mr. Carter, we can¡¯t stay here any longer.


    We¡¯ll be in deep trouble if someone finds out about this.¡±


    Arnold lowered his head and told Josie. We must get out of here. Come with me.


    ¡°I can¡¯t leave,¡± she said with resolve. She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of leaving Laura here to suffer


    alone.


    ¡°You¡¯re putting yourself in danger by staying here,¡± he responded, his voice booming with anger. sees


    you here and starts hitting you, no one could save you!¡±


    ¡°If Zach


    Josie was taken aback by the change in his tone. I¡¯m worried about Laura,¡± she quavered, her body


    trembling in fear.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Tll try to set an appointment with Zach tomorrow and ask udia to help get Laura out of here, Arnold


    said reassuringly, trying to put Josie at ease.


    ¡°Will it work?¡± she asked, her hands fidgeting nervously.


    ¡°Trust me,¡± he said firmly, his eyes meeting hers with confidence.


    He had assured her that she could always trust him.


    Josie took a deep breath, trying to clear her head off the jumble of thoughts racing through it. She


    waited for the doctor to treat Laura¡¯s wounds, and she wouldn¡¯t leave until she knew that Laura¡¯s


    injuries wouldn¡¯t get infected


    Before leaving, she held Laura¡¯s hand tightly and vowed, ¡°We¡¯ll meet outside.¡±¡°


    Laura nodded, her lips pale and her eyes filled with tears.

 Chapter 540

    Chapter 540


    Chapter 540 Recognized


    The door of the study had been locked from the inside, which meant that no one could have entered


    the room. This allowed them to exit the basement safely without getting caught.


    Arnold ced his hat over Josie¡¯s head as they left the room, hoping to draw attention away from her.


    To their surprise, Zach arrived at the garden, dressed in a suit and tie as he mingled with the guests.


    He had the poise of a gentleman, but they knew this was just a fa?ade.


    ¡°I want to thank you all foring to Summer¡¯s birthday party today,¡± Zach announced, raising a ss


    of champagne.


    Arnold raised his ss to Zach, his lips curling into a smirk. ¡°Zach.¡±


    Zach turned around to face him and greeted him with a slight nod. ¡°Arnold.¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be here earlier, Arnold said, walking over to Zach and blocking his view of the vi.


    Zach smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. ¡°The whole of Wavery knows how much you care for


    Summer. I could never be as attentive to her as you are, even though I¡¯m her brother.¡±


    Everyone in the crowd chuckled politely at Zach¡¯s remarks.


    ¡°What about Laura?¡± Arnold probed, taking a sip of his wine. His casual manner and tone made it seem


    as if he hadn¡¯t just witnessed a horrific scene before him earlier.


    ¡°Laura wasn¡¯t feeling well, so I had her stay in her room,¡± Zach said confidently, his voice steady.


    Arnold smiled, his lips curving up in a faint smile..


    ¡°Mr. Russell, he doesn¡¯t seem suspicious, Larry said to Dexter. They both kept their eyes fixed on


    Arnold.


    The way he carried himself confidently, speaking in high spirits with the guests, left no room for


    suspicion.


    Meanwhile, Summer was walking towards Dexter; her eyes focused on him.


    ¡°Where is his secretary?¡± he inquired.


    Larry frowned as he looked around the garden, his eyes searching for Andy. ¡°I don¡¯t see him


    anywhere,¡± he replied.


    ¡°Find out where he is right now,¡± Dexter ordered, his voicemanding.


    Summer approached them, her eyes sparkling with innocence. ¡°Dex, do I look beautiful today?¡± she


    asked, her singsong voice filtering through the air.


    As always, Summer was breathtakingly beautiful; her eyes shone like stars in the night sky. Dexter


    forced a warm smile. ¡°You¡¯re always beautiful.¡±


    Summer chuckled shyly at his answer, then turned to his secretary. ¡°Mr. Peeple, where are you headed


    to?¡±


    Dexter maintained his calm demeanor, even though he was caught off guard by Summer¡¯s question.


    ¡°We have an urgent problem to attend to,¡± he responded quickly, trying to put an end to the subject.


    Summer looked down, her eyes no longer sparkling with light. ¡°Dex, I heard you¡¯ve been looking for


    Josie. Have you found her?¡±


    Dexter let out a forced chuckle, his eyes darkening with an inscrutable expression. ¡°Who told you?¡±


    ¡°I could help you find her. Are you searching for her in Rivonia?¡±


    Summer didn¡¯t hold back a single word. Dexter¡¯s smile faltered as he replied, ¡°You don¡¯t need to bother


    yourself with it.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the one at fault, Summermented, her eyes locked on Dexter¡¯s. ¡°Anyone else could¡¯ve


    understood your situation at that time.¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t bear to hear her anymore. ¡°You know me too well,¡± he responded, his lips pressed into


    a


    thin line.


    Summer returned a smile. She reached out her hands to hold him and spoke slowly and deliberately.


    ¡°Of course. I know you better than anyone in this world. That¡¯s what makes me worthy of being by your


    side.¡±


    Andy was leading Josie and the doctor out of the side door as Summer and Dexter were engaged in


    conversation. Josie kept her head down, not wanting to make eye contact.


    As she raised her head, she caught a glimpse of the woman standing next to Dexter from the corner of


    her


    eye.


    They were standing side by side, their arms brushing against each other¡¯s.


    Larry¡¯s eyes widened in recognition when she stopped to look at them. ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡± he blurted


    without much thought.


    He lowered his voice to a whisper and darted across the hall toward her.


    Andy was caught off guard by Larry¡¯s sharp eye. He couldn¡¯t get Josie to escape in time.


    Larry¡¯s eyes widened in surprise and disbelief. His mouth gaped slightly as he stared at Josie. ¡°Mrs.


    Russell, why are you here?¡±Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 541

    Chapter 541


    Chapter 541 use of Stealing


    Josie came to a sudden halt, her eyes widening in surprise. ¡°How did you recognize me with my


    mask?¡± she asked.


    Larry¡¯s eyes gleamed with surprise and delight. ¡°Of course,¡± he said. ¡°Mr. Russell has been searching


    for you for the past two months. I can recognize you even if you were wearing a helmet.¡°


    Josie nced in Gareth¡¯s direction. Her voice was filled with urgency as she said, ¡®T¡¯ll exin another


    day. I can¡¯t be seen here right now.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go,¡± Larry pleaded. ¡°we¡¯ve been looking for you for so long.¡± He stared momentarily at Andy


    before grabbing Josie¡¯s wrist. He was holding onto her as if his life depended on it. ¡°You have to at


    least see Mr. Russell before you leave.¡±


    He then led her towards Dexter.


    Josie wanted to disappear into the ground. ¡°I really can¡¯t,¡± she replied, shaking her head.


    As they were struggling in the hallway, they caught Dexter¡¯s attention. Dexter nced up, followed by


    Summer, who did the same.


    Josie immediately turned around, hoping to avoid being seen.


    Summer recognized her instantly and looked towards Gareth nervously. She saw his face sh in


    surprise and said carefully, ¡°Dex, this isn¡¯t the appropriate asion for this.¡±


    Dex didn¡¯t listen to Summer and started walking over to Josie.


    He started walking quickly but slowed down as he got closer to her.


    Arnold was carefully observing the scene that unfolded before him the whole time. He wanted to


    protect Josie but had to stay put because Zach was about to leave his seat. Without hesitating, he


    called out to Zach. Zach, let¡¯s have another toast.¡±


    Zach froze at his spot. ¡°You must be really pumped up tonight.¡±


    ¡°Summer announced that she had something big to reveal to everyer. Aren¡¯t you curious?¡±


    Zach¡¯s steps came to a halt, and he decided to stay with Arnold.


    Dexter stood before Josie. Suddenly, Summer¡¯s voice cut through the air. ¡°What are you wearing?!¡±


    As soon as Summer¡¯s scream rang out, everyone slowly gathered around them.


    Dexter stood frozen in ce as Josie turned around. She was stunned to see the man she hadn¡¯t seen


    in a long time standing before her.


    Their eyes met as if the world around them had stopped.


    It only took one moment for them to fall for each other again.


    Seeing how their eyes were longingly fixed on each other, Summer¡¯s face tightened, and she clenched


    her fists so tightly that they left red marks on her palms.


    She continued to yell at Josie, ¡°What are you wearing?¡±


    Josie finally averted her gaze from Dexter and removed the cap that Arnold had given her earlier.


    It was a cap from Louis Vuitton¡¯s Fall collection that was priced at an exorbitant price.


    Summer walked over and snatched the cap from her. This is mine! How dare you steal from me?!?


    Josie¡¯s bright eyes grew wide with fear and surprise when she noticed the overwhelming stares from


    everyone in the crowd. Shaking her head, she took a step back and refuted Summer¡¯s ims, ¡°I didn¡¯t


    steal It.¡±


    Andy, who stood by her side, lowered his tone and emphasized, ¡°Ms. Olsen, she didn¡¯t steal it from


    you.¡±


    ¡°How can I trust you? She looks suspicious, doesn¡¯t she? Why would she be wearing a mask? Who


    knows what she¡¯s up to? Does she even have an invitation?¡±


    Summer¡¯s questions came out in a single breath, not giving Josie a chance to speak. Her eyes darted


    away from Dexter¡¯s pressuring gaze.


    ¡°She¡± Andy was flustered and at a loss for words, struggling to exin under the scrutinizing stares of


    the guests.


    Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Summer sent a warning re at Andy, her gaze dripping with disdain. I¡¯m asking her. Why are you


    getting nervous?¡±


    Josie felt the man¡¯s eyes boring into her. His gaze was as dark and unfathomable as the deep sea,


    exuding a domineering and intimidating air. He looked like his world only had her in it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have an invitation?¡± Summer stood before Josie, lifting her cap. ¡°Let me ask you one thing.


    Do you know what¡¯s unique about this cap?¡±


    Josie narrowed her eyes but didn¡¯t utter a single word.


    ¡°There¡¯s a watercolor painting of a small flower behind the cap. I drew it myself,¡± Summer asserted,


    turning the cap around. Sure enough, there was a painting of a daisy.


    Summer wasn¡¯t lying.


    Josie closed her eyes shut. She knew Summer was determined to use her of stealing her item.


    However, she couldn¡¯t mention Arnold¡¯s name to save herself.

 Chapter 542

    Chapter 542


    Chapter 542 Revealing Mrs Russell


    Summer knew Josie was trapped.


    The people around them started to buzz with gossip. ¡°There¡¯s a thief¡­¡±


    ¡°What a disgrace¡­.


    ¡°How dare she steal Summer¡¯s item..¡±


    Every word they said felt like a weight crushing her chest. She couldn¡¯t look at Dexter, whose eyes


    were full of longing.


    A crowd of people started to form, drawn to themotion. udia and Mark finally showed up,


    having been alerted to the situation. Their brows furrowed as they took in the scene before them.


    ¡°It¡¯s certainly interesting to catch a thief on her birthday.¡± Zach was ready to leave his seat when Arnold


    stopped him. His voice was even and controlled as he inquired, ¡°Why are you so eager to leave? Do


    you have something important to attend to?¡±


    Zach drew his eyebrows together into a tight knot as he stood frozen in his tracks.


    The cap belonged to Arnold, and Summer just happened to notice the flower that was drawn behind it.


    As the reporters raised their cameras, Josie finally spoke up. ¡°Ms. Olsen, I didn¡¯t steal your cap,¡± she


    asserted.


    ¡°Why are you trying to deny it when the evidence is clear as day?¡± Summer chuckled indifferently. ¡°If


    you didn¡¯t steal it, show me your invitation. Do you even have one? What are you doing here dressed


    like that?¡±


    Her eyes fell on Andy, who was left dumbfounded, unable to utter a single word in Josie¡¯s defense.


    A calm and firm voice rang out, ¡°She came to find me. The gossip and chatter surrounding them quickly


    came to a pause as everyone stood still, stunned to hear Dexter speak out.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as she looked up at the man before her.


    Unwilling to ept the absurdity of his intervention, Summer grabbed the cuff of his shirt, trying to


    signal him to stop.


    Dexter ignored her. He marched over to Josie and announced, ¡°She came here to find me. Is there a


    problem with that?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s mouths dropped open in shock. They couldn¡¯t believe what they were hearing.


    Even udia and Mark exchanged curious nces. They were startled by the scene that was


    unfolding before them.


    Arnold gripped Zach¡¯s hand tightly, with his veins popping from his neck. His eyes were zing red with


    anger.


    ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    Josie was also surprised, and her heart started to race. She stared at Dexter, whose face was sharp


    and chiseled, his presencemanding everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°I gave this cap to Josie just now. She didn¡¯t steal it.¡± Dexter exined in a calm and collected manner,


    his deep voice resonating through the crowd. ¡°If you¡¯re not going to drop this, you can find me. I¡¯ll pay


    you ten times the price of this cap aspensation.¡±


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Summer stood frozen on the spot, her face ashen pale with shock.


    The people in the crowd started to murmur quietly. The incident of the stolen cap was just a pretext for


    Summer tosh out at Josie.


    However, everyone was still amazed that Dexter would stand up for her.


    This was the first time Dexter had publicly defended a woman in front of such arge crowd.


    Who is she?


    The crowd¡¯s eyes were all on Josic, sizing her up.


    ¡°Why are you doing this¡­ Summer mumbled, her voice trembling.


    Summer had only challenged Josie because she was sure Dexter wouldn¡¯t stand up for her in front of


    the media. But she hadn¡¯t anticipated that he would go against her words to defend Josie¡¯s honor.


    He must be crazy. Does he know what this represents?


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and raised her hands before the crowd. He spoke slowly and deliberately, his


    voice firm. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s inappropriate for me to bring my wife to an event, do you?¡±


    The crowd erupted into a frenzy.


    The sound of camera shutters clicking nonstop filled the air, as everyone present was eager to capture


    this


    moment.


    Who would have thought that she was Dexter¡¯s wife?


    Many guests knew Dexter was married but had no idea who his wife was. To their surprise, Dexter


    revealed her identity at Summer¡¯s birthday party.


    This news was sure to make headlines the next day.


    Josie felt a sinking feeling in her stomach as she struggled to process what was happening. She


    couldn¡¯t believe he would take that opportune moment to reveal the nature of their rtionship.


    She tried to free her hands from his, but Dexter gripped them tighter. His eyes reflected a determined


    glint as he looked into hers. ¡°You can rely on me from now on, he firmly reassured.

 Chapter 543

    Chapter 543


    Chapter 543 Take Her Away


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Dexter smiled warmly and continued, ¡°You¡¯re stunning. You shouldn¡¯t need to wear a mask.¡± Josie


    lowered her head and removed her mask. Her face was revealed to the public and caught on camera.


    Josie was a natural beauty. Her face was wless, even without makeup. Her features were delicate,


    and her skin was clear. Everyone who saw her was captivated by her beauty.


    The spotlight was blinding. Josie felt utterly exposed, so she covered her face with her hands, hoping


    to hide from everyone¡¯s stares.


    udia was taken aback when she saw Josie¡¯s face. She staggered backward in shock. ¡°Why is she


    here?¡±


    Mark caught hold of her, and his forehead creased in concern. ¡°She does look very simr to Liana. It


    muste as a shock to you.¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    ¡°No, that isn¡¯t the problem. Why is Josie here?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s wife was the one she had been spending time with for the past two months.


    Mark was too focused on his own thoughts to pay attention to her. ¡°Summer just dug her own grave, he


    sneered in a deep and solemn tone.


    On the other side, Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and led her through the crowd. Her heart was racing as


    she followed him.


    Out of nowhere, Dexter picked her up by the waist and marched through the crowd. His determined


    figure exuded a sense of calmness as they passed through the mass of people.


    The noise faded away, and the only thing that remained was the sound of their hearts pounding in their


    chests.


    Moses sped along the highway.


    Dexter¡¯s phone rang, and he saw that it was Larry. ¡°We¡¯re having some trouble with the reporters,¡±


    Larry


    said.


    Dexter held his phone tightly, and his eyes narrowed. He spoke in aposed voice to Larry, ¡°Let


    them report it.¡±


    He was determined to let the world know about Josie.


    Josie sat huddled in the corner of the backseat. She had her mask on and her head down, her face


    indiscernible for Dexter to see.


    Dexter¡¯s tense expression slowly melted away as he studied her.


    ¡°Where have you been for the past two months?¡± he asked, his voiceced with sweetness.


    Josie was not used to hearing Dexter speak in such a soft and gentle tone. She wrapped her arms


    around her legs and remained silent, even as he questioned her.


    Dexter continued to speak to her in a gentle and understanding tone. ¡°It¡¯s alright if you don¡¯t want to


    share.¡±


    ¡°Where are we headed to?¡± Moses asked.


    ¡°To a hotel,¡± Dexter replied.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to return to the Mason Garden.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to a hotel,¡± she finally spoke up. ¡°I want to go home.¡±


    Dexter pressed his lips tightly together, forming a thin line. ¡°I¡¯ve been worried sick about you for the


    past two months. I need to make sure you¡¯re safe right now. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I here now? I¡¯m fine,¡± Josie said, meeting his gaze. Her eyes were dazzling, enrapturing him


    wholly.


    But her words cut deep like a knife; it felt like there were a million miles between them as she put up


    walls again.


    ¡°You¡¯re still ming me,¡± he finally said after a pause, his voice filled with regret. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Josie.¡±


    He had apologized to her many times.


    Josie couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize to me. You¡¯ve done nothing wrong.¡±


    her


    The car pulled up in front of a luxurious hotel. Dexter exited the car and opened the door for Josie, but


    she stayed in her seat. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be with you,¡± she uttered, her voice trembling with dread. D


    Dexter had lost all patience with her. He picked her up and carried her into the hotel, not giving her a


    chance to argue..


    Josie struggled to break free from his arms, but he was too strong for her.


    ¡°Dexter, you prick!¡± Josie bit his shoulder so hard that it left a bloody mark. ¡°Let me go!¡±


    He carried her all the way to the top floor of the building, to the presidential suite.


    The door closed behind them automatically. Josie didn¡¯t have time to take in thevish view of the room


    before she was abruptly let down on the floor. Within a split second, Dexter pulled her to the side, and


    her back knocked hard against the wall, leaving her wincing in pain. D


    The man leaned in closer to her ear, and she caught a whiff of his familiar scent.

 Chapter 544

    Chapter544


    Chapter 544 We Can Try for a Second Child


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Josie immediately recognized the man¡¯s unique scent.


    She held her breath, feeling his lips linger closer to hers. Her line of sight was blocked, and all she


    could hear was his raspy voice. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t youe with me? Are you together with Arnold?¡± (D


    Dexter squeezed her hands harder, and her muscles flexed in resistance.


    ¡°You showed up at the Olsen Residence together with his people. Am I right?¡±


    ¡°So what?¡± Josie sneered, staring into his eyes.


    ¡°Why did you go to the Olsen Residence?¡± Dexter asked, his voice cold and demanding.


    She was surprised by his interrogation, ¡°What does that have to do with you?¡± she spat, her eyes


    narrowing at him.


    ¡°I won¡¯t hold it against you if you tell me nothing is going on between you and Arnold,¡± Dexter said, his


    voice dropping. D


    Josie knew that she was about to push him too far. She would have given him what he wanted in the


    but she wouldn¡¯t do it this time.


    ¡°I¡¯m with Arnold now,¡± Josie said, her tone final.


    past,


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened, but he held his anger in check. Before he could say anything, Josie continued,


    her voice rising in anger. ¡°Why does it concern you? You humiliated me, and then you threatened me


    by dragging me here as soon as you found me. What more do you want?¡±


    He did not expect her to be so blunt, leaving him no room forpromise.


    ¡°Say that again,¡± his voice was devoid of emotion.


    ¡°You humiliated me, and then you threatened me. What more do you want from me?¡±


    ¡°Say it again.¡±


    ¡°You humiliated me¡­¡±


    ¡°Say it again!¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    The hands that gripped her chin tightly slowly softened. Her tears welled up in her eyes, but they were


    invisible in the dark. He only knew about them when a teardrop fell onto the back of his hand. D


    The tear was warm on his hands, a reminder of the pain he had caused.


    The veins on his arms faded as soon as he felt the warm teardrop.


    Josie¡¯s legs buckled as soon as she was free from his grip, and she sank to the ground, trembling with


    fear.


    Her tears streamed down her face as she wept into her hands.


    ¡°Dex, we lost our first child. It took me so long to recover from that loss. I finally found peace, but you¡¯re


    tearing my life apart again. Please let me go.¡± (D


    Dexter¡¯s face was unreadable, but his eyes were filled with regret. He had never seen Josie cry like this


    before, and it broke his heart. He finally realized the pain he had put her through.


    She begged and pleaded for him to release her.


    Dexter lifted his head, his face set in a grim expression, and he blinked his tears away forcefully.


    Josie hadn¡¯t sobbed hysterically in a long time. She was afraid to cry in front of people, not wanting to


    worry them. Even when she did cry, she had to stifle her sobs so no one could hear her.


    However, when she stood before Dexter, she felt like she had found the source of all her problems. She


    cried her eyes out, releasing all of her pent¨Cup frustration and despair.


    Dexter¡¯s heart cracked into pieces as he heard her cries. He crouched down and gently lifted her onto


    the bed. As she sobbed, he patted her back softly tofort her. ¡°We can still try for a second baby,


    even a third one,¡± he said. ¡°I won¡¯t hurt you. Please stop crying and take a deep breath to calm down.¡±


    D


    Josie¡¯s eyes were blurry with tears. She felt like she was in a dream. When had Dexter ever been so


    patient and warm with her before?


    Dexterforted her, but he wouldn¡¯t let her leave.


    Josie panted in short gasps, her body shaking as she tried to calm her breaths. Dexter reached for a


    ss and filled it with warm water. He ced the ss on the bedside table and sat down next to her.

 Chapter 545

    Chapter 545


    Chapter 545 Who Would Understand Me?


    The ck suit he was wearing entuated his intimidating aura. He suddenly pulled out a first aid kit


    and held Josie¡¯s leg to check on her leg injury.


    It was recovering well.


    He tenderly applied the ointment to her wounds and dered, ¡°I¡¯m not getting married to Summer. Not


    now, not ever.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t say anything in response to his statement.


    Dexter was unusually gentle as he treated her wounds. ¡°Thank you for helping me when the Russell


    Group was in trouble, Jo. I owe you,¡± he enunciated sincerely.


    As expected, he knew what she had done for him.


    Dexter waited for Josie¡¯s response. His heartstrings tugged when she didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°I never had feelings for Summer,¡± Dexter added earnestly, his voice steady. ¡°The only reason I kept my


    distance from you was to protect you. I had no other choice.¡±


    Josie would have understood and forgiven him if it had been in the past. But she was on the verge of


    death and was deeply hurt by someone she loved, so she didn¡¯t know how to react anymore.


    ¡°I know,¡± she mumbled, moving her leg away.


    ¡°You know?¡± Dexter asked, his eyes widening.


    Josie could finally look into the eyes of the man she hadn¡¯t seen in months. ¡°Mr. Russell always has his


    reasons. What else could I do other than to forgive and move on?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes narrowed, and his nostrils red. He didn¡¯t like it when she was sarcastic with him.


    ¡°Are you upset about the divorce agreement? Xanthe was the one who drew it up. It¡¯s not legally


    binding.¡±


    Josie was exhausted, both physically and emotionally. She tried to get out of bed but froze when she


    met Dexter¡¯s stern gaze.


    She was fuming with frustration as she rubbed her temples. ¡°All this time, I¡¯ve had to interpret your


    actions for myself. You¡¯ve never tried to exin any of your actions. Do I mean anything to you?¡±


    ¡°Our marriage was never fair from the start. It was a business deal. But Dexter, you should know I


    married you because I loved you and hoped you would love me back. Even now, I like you yery much,


    but I¡¯m afraid of you.¡±


    His world was tooplicated for her toprehend.


    -Dexter stared at her, his eyes grave with suppressed rage and vulnerability.


    Josie locked eyes with him. ¡°I¡¯ve always been there for you, trying to understand your perspective. But


    what about me? Who would try to understand mine?¡±


    She was about to get off the bed when Dexter grabbed her wrist. ¡°I¡¯ll understand you from now on,¡± he


    asserted.


    Josie had no energy left to deal with him.


    Dexter gripped her arms like a vice, refusing to let her go. In the darkness of the room, he pleaded,


    ¡°Josie, you can hate me, but please give me a chance to make it up to you.¡±


    He took her phone, leaving her without a way to contact anyone.


    Dexter¡¯s stubbornness was driving her insane. Without her phone, she couldn¡¯t reach out to Arnold to


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    check on Laura.


    Dexter was glued to her side, never letting her out of his sight.


    Josie felt a sense of dread settle in her stomach as she was under Dexter¡¯s watchful eye. Even though


    she tried to ignore him, he was still willing to put up with her. She tried to escape in the middle of the


    night but was met with his cold stare from the shadows. His slight cough gave her a startle,


    She would lose her mind if he didn¡¯t set her free.


    ¡°I need my phone to let them know I¡¯m okay.¡±


    ¡°Who are you trying to reach?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t let him know that she wanted to call Arnold.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know why I went to the Olsen Residence?¡±


    Josie finally gave in and told him the truth.

 Chapter 546

    Chapter 546


    Chapter 546 Cracking the Passcode.


    Dexter¡¯s face scrunched up in a look of consternation.


    She spent half an hour exining everything to him. ¡°It¡¯s daytime now, and I don¡¯t know if Laura


    escaped. I would feel terrible if something happened to herst night.¡±


    Dexter finally realized why Josie was so on edge. He handed her the phone. ¡°Go ahead and ask.¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Josie couldn¡¯t fathom how at ease he seemed. ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ be calling Arnold¡­¡±


    He nodded in assent.


    She quickly snatched the phone from his hands and dialed Arnold¡¯s number. ¡°Josie! Are you okay?!¡±


    Josie turned away to answer Arnold¡¯s call, worried about how Dexter would react. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Did Laura


    manage to escape?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told udia. She¡¯s going to help us get Laura out of there today.¡±


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief when she heard what Arnold had to say.


    ¡°You must let me know as soon as she¡¯s out.¡±


    Before they hung up, Arnold asked, his voice indicating his concern, ¡°Are you really okay?


    A shadow cast over Dexter¡¯s features the longer the call continued.


    Josie had no choice but to end the call when she saw Dexter staring at her intently.


    Josie was still upset with Dexter and refused to speak to him. However, he had his subordinates


    prepare a new set of branded clothes for her without her knowledge.


    Josie saw the array of branded clothesid out for her and smiled wryly. ¡°Am I going to a fashion


    show?¡± she scoffed.


    In addition, Dexter had a doctore to look at Josie¡¯s injury.


    After the doctor hadpleted a series of examinations, Dexter followed up with him. ¡°Make sure she


    doesn¡¯t suffer any after¨Ceffects from the ident!¡± he demanded.


    ¡°The injury is not serious,¡± the doctor assured Dexter. With proper rest, she will make a full recovery¡°-


    Josie had enough. Clicking her tongue, she demanded, ¡°Dexter, why are you keeping me here?¡±


    Directing her frustrations at him, she continued, ¡°Are you trying to make amends for what you did?


    What¡¯s the point of all this?¡±


    Dexter could put up a front of being patient if the situation called for it.


    He didn¡¯t answer her questions, and Josie stomped her legs indignantly like a child experiencing a


    temper tantrum. She was upset and annoyed by his behavior.


    Dexter secretly took satisfaction in the fact that he could get Josie riled up.


    Dexter was happy with the way things were. He was content as long as he could be with Josie.


    ???


    Josie finally understood that her outburst did not serve any purpose and only fueled Dexter¡¯s


    satisfaction. She decided to try a different approach. ¡°If you want to make up with me,¡± she said finally,


    ¡°could you help Arnold get Laura out of the hidden basement?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyebrows shot up. ¡°I had my people on their way the moment you hung up,¡± he responded.


    Josie was surprised by his unexpected behavior.


    However, he still wouldn¡¯t let her go. He must be afraid of losing her again.


    A sense of dread continued to gue Josie. She couldn¡¯t reach anyone to find out about Laura¡¯s


    condition.


    Dexter finally left in the afternoon for a business meeting. The door was locked from the outside.


    There must also be guards posted outside.


    Josie¡¯s hand started to sweat as she stared at the lock in front of her. She knew this was her only


    chance to


    escape.


    She only had three chances to enter the passcode. She had to think carefully before trying any of them.


    She tried Dexter¡¯s birthday, but it didn¡¯t work.


    Josie maintained herposure. There was no way Dexter would use her birthday as the passcode.


    She paced around the room, and then a thought urred to her. She was frustrated with herself for


    being so foolish.


    If she got it wrong, she would have one more opportunity to get the passcode right.


    Josie scurried around the bedroom, her anxiety¨Cstricken face reflected in the doorknob as she keyed in


    the passcode.


    ¡®Beep!¡¯


    The door unlocked.


    Josie was stunned, unable to believe she had guessed the passcode correctly.


    Her heart was beating wildly in her chest.


    Afterposing herself, she slowly opened the door and saw that no one was around.


    Was Dexter so sure that she wouldn¡¯t guess the passcode?

 Chapter 547

    Chapter 547


    Chapter 547 Escape


    Josie entered the VIP elevator and pressed the button for the ground floor. Her heart sank as the


    elevator descended, and her inner rms started to re.


    Her cheeks burned red as her heart pounded in her chest.


    The passcode she entered was the date of their wedding anniversary.


    When the elevator door opened, Josi? stepped into the hotel¡¯s luxurious lobby. The lobby was adorned


    with marble flooring.


    She took a deep breath and stepped out, trying to look like she belonged there.


    Josie didn¡¯t expect to see Dexter at the cafe next to the lobby. As she was about to walk through the


    entrance, their eyes met.


    His eyes turned cold as he saw Josie trying to flee. He rose to his feet and called out to her, ¡°Josie!¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat at the sound of his voice. She didn¡¯t hesitate for a second and bolted


    through the door.


    Cars were driving by the hotel, and she managed to catch a taxi just in time. She got in the cab as soon


    as Dexter came out of the hotel entrance. Her heart was beating out her chest as she sat down.


    ¡°Please hurry, my husband is an abuser. He¡¯s chasing me with a knife.¡±


    The driver stepped on the pedal and looked out the window. He was puzzled about how a man who


    seemed so well-groomed and distinguished could be an abuser.


    Josie ced her hands on her chest to calm her racing heart. After a while, she saw a caring up


    behind them. It was Dexter driving his ck Maybach. His car had a much more powerful engine than


    the taxi, and she could see him gaining speed on them.


    They were speeding through the streets recklessly. The taxi driver was starting to get worried about


    offending the driver of the Maybach. ¡°Miss, who is he?¡± he asked.


    Dexter lowered his window and gave her a thumbs up. He was impressed by her determination to


    escape.


    She could feel her blood rushing through her veins as she imagined what would happen if Dexter


    caught


    her.


    ¡°He¡¯s a monster. Please take me to the nearest police station.¡±


    Josie was wary of being caught by him. She knew he would never do anything to her in front of a


    crowd.


    Despite everything, Dexter had never hurt her. He had always been attentive and caring towards her.


    Before they reached the police station, the cars came to a halt at a traffic light.


    The traffic light had a sixty-four-second countdown timer.


    I¡¯m doomed, Josie thought to herself when she realized the predicament she was in.


    Dexter controlled his rage as he pulled Josie out of the car. He stered a smile on his face and asked


    through gritted teeth, ¡°Why are you running away? I¡¯m not going to do anything to you.¡±


    Josie winced in pain as Dexter¡¯s grip tightened on her hands. ¡°Dexter, let me go,¡± she stuttered. ¡°I


    promise I won¡¯t go anywhere.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face tightened with anger as the silence between them stretched on.


    Josie¡¯s anger and fear were palpable. She gripped Dexter¡¯s hand so tightly that it left red marks on his


    palm, but he didn¡¯t even flinch.


    ¡°You¡¯reing with me,¡± he said firmly, his eyes hard and unyielding.


    He needed her by his side today.


    The cars behind beeped their horns loudly as the light turned green. However, no one was brave


    enough. to get too close to Dexter¡¯s car.


    Dexter was met with a pleading gaze from Josie. She knew that she was trapped. He refused to let her


    go.


    Dexter gripped her wrist tightly as he led her to his car. He opened the door and was about to force her


    inside. At that point, the taxi driver had already left.


    Darting her eyes left and right, a sense of helplessness and desperation seared through her body as


    she frantically sought a way to break free from her current situation. Just then, she saw a few police


    officers working on the sidewalk.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    When the police officers saw Dexter¡¯s car stopped at the traffic light, they started to approach them.

 Chapter 548

    Chapter 548


    Chapter 548 You¡¯re Quite the Gangster, Aren¡¯t You?


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. She yelled at the top of her lungs, ¡°Help me! I don¡¯t know this


    man! Please help me!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief.


    Dexter was caught off guard as the police officers arrived and cuffed his hands together before he


    could speak..


    Josie felt a sense of relief wash over her as she fell to the ground, her arms hitting the pavement with a


    dull thud.


    ¡°What are you doing to this woman?*


    Dexter had never been restrained in this way before. If it hadn¡¯t been for the unexpected attack, the


    police wouldn¡¯t have been able to take him down. He gritted his teeth and red at the officers. ¡°Let me


    go if you want to live!¡±


    The police officers were unmoved by Dexter¡¯s threats. They increased the pressure on him, warning.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite the gangster, aren¡¯t you? For someone with such distinguished charisma, you have a


    terrible character.


    ¡°Miss, can you tell us what happened?¡±


    Josie rubbed her hands, which were sore from hitting the ground. This was the only chance she had to


    escape from Dexter. Her words lingered on her lips, but she held her tongue when she met his zing


    stare.


    The crowd was dispersed by the police officers. The incident would be a hot topic on social media if


    their pictures circted online.


    ¡°Miss, can you tell us your rtionship with this man?¡± the police officers asked.


    Josie regained her senses and stuttered out a response. ¡°I don¡¯t know him.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were icy cold, like two shards of ss. They pierced her soul, and she could tell he was


    thinking about the absurdity of the situation they were in.


    The police officers tightened their grip on Dexter as they heard her response. ¡°How dare you kidnap a


    woman?¡± one of them asked. ¡°I¡¯m sure the car must be stolen too. You can exin yourself to the


    detectivester.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face turned grim. He had an affluent background and held a powerful standing in society. He


    was used to being treated with respect, but now he was treated like amon criminal.


    Dexter swore under his breath. ¡°Fools,¡± he muttered to himself.


    The police officers ears perked up. ¡°What did you just say?¡± one of them yelled.


    I said that you¡¯re both fools, Dexter snarled


    ¡°You bastard¡±


    Dexter¡¯s charisma was overwhelmung His piercing gaze and deep, profound features made Josie¡¯s


    anxiety skyrocket She staggered backward, ready to run for it before he could catch her again.


    You¡¯re Quite the Gangster, Aren¡¯t You?


    Once the detectives were on the scene, it would take them a while to interrogate Dexter. If she left now,


    he wouldn¡¯t be able to find her. Even if he did, tracking her down would take him a few days.


    Like a predator eyeing his prey, Gareth narrowed his vision onto Josie and saw her nervously backing


    away. Within a split second, he kicked the police officers with such force that they staggered away.


    Josie was rooted to the spot. She was worried about the two police officers. If Dexter got revenge, he


    wouldn¡¯t hesitate to hurt their families.


    Josie was not as cold-blooded as Dexter. She stood frozen in ce, her heart hammering in her chest


    as she watched the police officers and Dexter fight.


    The police officers were not about to let Dexter get away with his crimes. They immediately started to


    fight back, but Dexter was able to overpower them and pin them to the ground.


    They were convinced that Dexter was a kidnapper. He was too skilled a fighter to be anything else.


    The police officers looked at each other, and their eyes narrowed in suspicion.


    Dexter broke free from the police officers¡¯ grip with a single tug. His eyes were fixed on Josie as he


    walked towards her, his gaze unwavering.


    As always, Dexter¡¯s eyes were likesers, boring into her soul.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The detective¡¯s car was almost there, and Josie¡¯s breath came in short gasps. Her cor bones were


    visible, and her eyes were wide with fear as she stared at the man approaching her.


    One of the police officers raised his baton and swung it across Dexter¡¯s back with a powerful blow.


    Dexter groaned in pain, and Josie¡¯s heart sank as she saw his veins popping out of his neck.


    The detectives came over to restrain Dexter. ¡°Is this the man who tried to kidnap you?¡± one of them


    asked.


    Dexter raised his head, his eyes narrowed.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were locked on Josie, and she felt a shiver run down her spine. She quickly turned her


    head. away from him.

 Chapter 549

    Chapter 549


    Chapter 549 Marriage Certificate


    The detectives escorted Dexter back to the police station for interrogation, and Josie had to go along.


    ¡°We just need a brief statement from you. Don¡¯t worry, and it won¡¯t take long.¡±


    The police were incredibly considerate and gentle with the victim.


    Dexter raised his eyebrows and sneered. ¡°Why are you being so biased?¡± he asked the detective.


    The detective¡¯s face was set in a stern¡¯expression as he red at Dexter. ¡°Do you think I should treat


    you respectfully?¡± he scoffed.


    Dexter had never felt so disrespected before.


    Josie squeezed her eyes shut. She started to regret her split-second decision to use him in front of


    the police. She had only gotten herself into deeper waters by messing with him.


    Dexter had controlled his anger and looked surprisingly calm. He looked into her eyes with a


    determined. gaze. They both knew these people were no match for him and wouldn¡¯t dare toy a


    finger on him once they discovered his true identity.


    He won¡¯t be the oneing out on the losing end by the end of the day.


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    The baton was swung with such power that it left asting ache in his back, making it hard for him to


    stand up.


    Josie and Dexter were cramped together in the back seat of the police car. They asionally brushed


    shoulders as the car bumped along, but Josie kept her head down and didn¡¯t want to deal with him.


    ¡°Just wait and see.¡±


    His voice dropped an octave, and he spoke each word with deliberate rity, emphasizing the gravity


    of his words. Josie¡¯s stomach churned at the thought of what was in store, knowing Dexter wouldn¡¯t let


    them off the hook.


    She then lifted her head. ¡°Enough, Dexter. Don¡¯t touch them.¡±


    Dexter chuckled menacingly. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you feel sorry for them when you screamed earlier?¡±


    The people trying to put him behind bars would never have thought that they were about to be at the


    mercy of the person they had apprehended.


    Josie ignored him, as there was no way for them tomunicate effectively.


    ¡°So, tell me, are you the human trafficker who was trying to kidnap a woman in broad daylight?¡± The


    detective at the police station interrogated Dexter.


    Dexter scoffed. ¡°How is this kidnapping? She¡¯s my wife. We had a minor disagreement, but your people


    had to interfere. You can ask her yourself.¡±


    The group of detectives looked at Josie expectantly. ¡°Is be your husband? You can tell us the truth.


    Don¡¯t worry about him getting back at you¡±


    Josie¡¯s scalp prickled. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to look at Dexter.


    Before she could say a word, Dexter threw their marriage certificate on the table. ¡°See for yourself,¡± he


    said


    in a low, demanding voice.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in shock. Why did he have a marriage certificate with him?


    The officerpared the names on the certificate to their identity cards. He stared at their pictures and


    then looked up at them. After confirming that everything matched, he asked Josie with an arched


    eyebrow, ¡°Why did you call for help then?¡±


    Josie chewed on her bottom lip, her hand stered on the temple of her head. She felt humiliated and


    quickly apologized, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for causing this much trouble for you.¡±


    This situation left the police officers speechless. Their faces were filled with a mixture of confusion and


    frustration as they inquired again, ¡°Are you being abused? You looked terrified of him just now.¡±


    ¡°It certainly looked like it.¡±


    Dexter crossed his arms in front of him, his eyes narrowing with annoyance. Josie quickly apologized to


    them, afraid that their words would set Dexter off.


    His eyes darkened even further when he saw her apologizing profusely. ¡°You¡¯re amazing.¡± he


    commented sarcastically under his breath.


    Larry arrived at the police station momentster. He knew the rules-they couldn¡¯t know that he was the


    CEO of the Russell Group. However, things would be different as soon as they left the police station.


    ¡°You¡¯re Dexter Russell, the CEO of the Russell Group?


    ¡°Do you need me to prove who I am?¡±


    The detectives apologized profusely and offered to take him to the hospital to treat his wounds.

 Chapter 550

    Chapter 550


    Chapter 550 Leave as Soon as Possible


    Josie stood by the entrance, pouring a cup of water for the police officers.


    The police officers didn¡¯t hold anything against her after she exined what happened. ¡°Your husband


    looked furious. He must bully you often, theymented.


    However, she kept it to herself and exined, ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I came out without telling him.¡±


    ¡°Is he that strict with you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s how he¡¯s always been.¡±


    ¡°Seeing how you and your husband act around each other, I¡¯m sure your rtionship won¡¯tst. Listen


    to my advice and get away from him as soon as possible.


    Josie chuckled softly, ¡°Thanks, buddy.¡±


    Despite her wishes, Dexter wouldn¡¯t let her go.


    The police officers had already left when Dexter exited the station. Andy went outside to make a call.


    Dexter leaned against the wall, a cigarette dangling from his mouth. He lit it up but didn¡¯t take a puff.


    ¡°They look quite young. I¡¯m sure they¡¯re just at the beginning of their careers. Shall I turn their world.


    upside down?¡±


    The smoke he breathed out wafted between them.


    ¡°All I need is for you toe with me. It¡¯s a simple and straightforward request. However, if you¡¯re


    unwilling to do so, I guess I¡¯ll have no choice but to make them pay. Their lives would be ruined


    because of your little rebellion. Would you be able to sleep soundly knowing what you¡¯ve done to


    them?¡±


    ¡°You know me better than anyone.¡±


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯re ying with fire. Don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice was assertive. As he spoke, Josie¡¯s knuckles turned white from the pressure of her grip.


    Dexter was a master maniptor, and he knew exactly how to push Josie¡¯s buttons.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were like two chips of blue ice, cold and unyielding. ¡°I have a condition.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyebrow shot up in amusement.


    ¡°You have to inform me about Laura¡¯s situation.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips expanded into a wide grin. ¡°Sure.¡±


    When they left the station, the police officers who had arrested them were still there, shining a


    shlight. into the car. Dexter¡¯s eyes narrowed to slits as he growled, ¡°What do you want? Are you


    thinking of hitting me again?¡±


    ¡°How could I?¡± The officerughed nervously. ¡°I didn¡¯t recognize you before. But I wouldn¡¯t have


    mistaken. you for a human trafficker if I had known you were the person who is currently trending on


    real-time


    searches


    Josie quickly nced over. In that brief moment, her eyes widened in shock at the pictures posted


    online. They were from Summer¡¯s birthday party,


    The photo was taken from a misleading angle. It showed Dexter carrying Josie away, his broad back


    making her look small in his arms. She had turned to look back in fear, and the photo caught her


    looking directly into the camera.


    Her eyes were wide with fear, and tears welled up in them, threatening to spill over.


    Dexter¡¯s face was a nk te, unreadable and imprable.


    Thement section was a hive of activity, with people buzzing about thetest news.


    ¡°Dexter had finally confirmed the identity of Mrs. Russell!¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°So this is Mrs. Russell. Despite her ordinary appearance, her presence is truly unique.¡±


    ¡°This must be another Cindere story.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips twitched. She felt the urge to disappear into thin air.


    This revtion meant that she was trapped. Everyone now knew that she was Dexter¡¯s wife.


    Dexter was pleased to see her reaction. ¡°Let the PR department keep this on the trends for a few more


    days,¡± he said, his lips curling into a smile.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie yelled; she couldn¡¯t stand it anymore.


    It was all his fault.


    Andy informed Josie as they reached the top floor of the hotel that Dexter had booked the ce for half


    a year with the intention of staying there long-term.


    The dressing on Dexter¡¯s back wound, which had been applied at the police station, was inadequate,


    as evidenced by the blood that had seeped through it onto his shirt.


    Larry urgently called for the doctor to examine his injury.


    He was severely hurt and would need a few days of rest to recover.

 Chapter 551

    Chapter 551


    Chapter 551 Do You Really Like Arnold?


    Josie was increasingly frustrated with Dexter. She felt bad that he had been injured because of her, but


    she didn¡¯t want to be entangled with him anymore.


    However, there was no one else to take care of him. Andy had too much on his te, so Josie was the


    only one who could do that. The doctor had given her instructions on what to do, and she just needed


    to follow them.


    Dexter had a quick temper, but Josie knew he was more patient now. asionally, she could feel that


    he looked at her with a hint of concern and hesitation.


    He didn¡¯t want her to exhaust herself from taking care of him.


    Josie wasn¡¯t naive. She knew that Dexter was trying to make amends with her. She also suspected it


    was because he felt remorseful about what had happened.


    She sneered at him, ¡°You booked this room for half a year? Are you not going to care about the Russell


    Group anymore?¡±


    Dexter tapped on theputer before him. ¡°I do care, but I also have to care for you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curled into a yful smirk. ¡°I¡¯ll still leave after you get better.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve changed the passcode.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll jump out from here then.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face scrunched up in a deep scowl. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± he responded, his voiceced with


    concern. He knew that Josie was capable of doing it if she was feeling desperate. His reckless


    demeanor must have rubbed on her. Understanding that she could take unnecessary risk, he spoke in


    a hushed tone, ¡°Just don¡¯t do it.¡±


    Josie was startled by the sudden change of attitude. She had only meant it as a joke, but Dexter¡¯s


    voice was full of concern.


    She brought a new dressing for his wound, hoping to change the subject. ¡°It¡¯s time to change your


    dressing,¡± she muttered.


    Dexter had a lean but muscr body. Every line on his body was like it had been chiseled by a master


    sculptor. Even in Josie¡¯s eyes, he was the most beautiful man she had ever seen.


    Her cheeks turned scarlet as hey face down on the sheets.


    The wounds were not ghastly, but it was excruciatingly painful. Josie¡¯s fingers danced across his spine,


    applying the ointment with gentle pressure. The cool ointment left a trail of relief on his heated skin.


    Dexter winced in pain, his face contorting in agony.


    His voice was deep and raspy, making Josie¡¯s cheeks flush.


    The room was suddenly filled with heavy tension, the air thick with unspoken words.


    Her body could never forget how he had touched her, the memory of his touch lingering on her skin.


    ¡°Don¡¯t feel too guilty about it,¡± Dextermented suddenly. ¡°This is nothingpared to the pain


    you¡¯ve


    endured because of me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes went wide with surprise. She didn¡¯t know how to react.


    She felt a sense of relief after dressing his wound, but her relief was short-lived when he suddenly


    pulled her by the wrist, and she fell onto the bed.


    Dexter had a sly expression on his face. Josie¡¯s eyes widened in rm, and she tried to get off the bed,


    but his hands locked her wrist tightly.


    Josie pushed him forcefully, trying to break away from his grasp. He leaned back, the lines on his


    forehead creasing in pain as he grazed his wound on the bed.


    She retreated from him, her frustration clear in her voice. ¡°Dexter, what are you trying to do?¡± she


    asked, the pitch of her voice raising with every word.


    Dexter took a deep breath and pulled Josie from behind into his embrace. ¡°Don¡¯t move if you don¡¯t want


    anything to happen to Arnold,¡± he ordered coarsely.


    Josie¡¯s muscles tensed up in his arms as she bit down on her lip. ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable!¡± she eximed.


    Dexter paused for a moment before he let out a snicker. ¡°I don¡¯t care what you think of me.¡±


    He observed her expressions under the light. ¡°Do you really like Arnold?¡± he inquired in a gravelly


    voice. A fiery passion burned in his gaze as he trailed his eyes over her body..


    Dexter leaned in and kissed Josie without giving her a chance to respond.


    The cold air was immediately reced by a warm and inviting sensation.


    Josie could not believe that Dexter managed to rein in his emotions and kept his distance. He must


    have been afraid of angering her, so he never approached her during the past couple of days. This led


    her to let her guard down around him.


    In the end, he was still the same cunning person.


    She struggled in his embrace and bit his lip so hard that she drew blood.


    Dexter finally pulled away, wincing in pain. His lips were bleeding, but there was something strangely


    attractive about the sight.


    Josie¡¯s breath quickened into short gasps. Their eyes met with a zing tension. They were like two


    predators locked in a staredown.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

 Chapter 552

    Chapter 552


    Chapter 552 Follow Her


    This was the main difference between Dexter and Arnold. Arnold respected her boundaries, while


    Dexter would push them until she gave in.


    After a short while, Josie softly said, ¡°Dexter, I¡¯m not sure if I can still like you.¡±


    He could tell from Josie¡¯s behavior that she had not yet forgiven him for his past actions.


    He lifted his hands and wiped away the bloodstains on his lips. ¡°So, who do you like? Arnold?¡±


    Josieid her head on his chest, her dark hair smoothly falling on the white sheets of the bed. Her


    clothes. were a tangled mess.


    ¡°Who knows?¡± She tilted her head to the side, purposely taunting him with words that he didn¡¯t want to


    hear.


    Dexter pinched her cheeks. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, we¡¯re not divorced yet. If you get together with anyone else,


    you¡¯d be cheating on me. Don¡¯t even think about leaving me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face broke into a wide grin. ¡°Who walked out on who first? Why didn¡¯t you say anything when


    the inte was aze with rumors about you and Summer? What about the time I had to go to


    surgery after the car ident? Dexter, this is not right! You have no right to say this to me!¡±


    Her voice was trembling with an overwhelming sense of dread. Seeing Dexter lean in closer to her with


    his solemn expression pushed her anxieties through the roof. However, she didn¡¯t expect him to lower


    his head as tears welled up in his eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Josie,¡± his voice quivered, each word trembling with the weight of his guilt.


    Josie shut her eyes tightly, her mind lost in thought over the tribtions of their rtionship.


    After a short moment, Dexter got up and pur on his shirt. He stood in front of the windows, where the


    sunlight streamed in.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you go.¡±


    Josie thought she was dreaming.


    ¡°But I¡¯ll have to follow you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mouth hung open in shock. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing.


    Dexter turned to look at her-his gaze leveled at hers. ¡°I can¡¯t let you run away again.¡±


    The next day, Andy noticed that Dexter¡¯s lips were bruised. ¡°Mr. Russell, what happened to your lips?¡±


    he asked without thinking twice.


    -Josie¡¯s ears felt hot and flushed as she hurried past them.


    Dexter continued to saunter, a smirk ying on his lips as he replied, ¡°Do I have to exin to you


    where it came from?¡±


    Larry¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment, and he gave himself a soft p on the cheeks to clear his


    head.


    Given how their rtionship had progressed, Dexter and Josie were on the pathway of reuniting.


    He apanied Josie to the hospital that day.


    The hospital was a high-security facility, so the VIP rooms werepletely inessible to the public.


    Their privacy was thus ensured to be protected.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Upon entering the VIP floor, they were met by Andy, who approached them with hasty footsteps. ¡°Mr.


    Russell¡­ Ms. Warren¡­¡±


    Before Josie could speak, arge handnded on her shoulders, and a deep voice rumbled from above


    her head. ¡°Mr. Johnson, what did you call her?¡±


    Andy had habitually addressed her as Ms. Warren¡­


    ¡°Mrs. Russell,¡± Andy uttered, his head bowed.


    ¡°That sounds better.¡±


    Josie lifted her head and saw Arnold walking out of the hospital ward. He nodded in acknowledgment.


    His face flickered with anger, but he quickly masked his emotions. ¡°Dex, you¡¯re here,¡± he muttered


    casually.


    Dexter didn¡¯t let go of Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°How is she?¡± he asked.


    ¡°She fainted, but she¡¯s going to be okay. The doctor said she¡¯ll need some time to recover,¡± Arnold


    responded.


    Josie released Dexter¡¯s hand and quickly went into the hospital ward.


    The two men stood facing each other, Dexter¡¯s gaze following Josie¡¯s retreating figure. ¡°Arnold, you


    were too careless that day. You should¡¯ve told me Laura was hurt,¡± he said as he voiced hisints.

 Chapter 553

    Chapter 553


    Chapter 553 Laughingstock


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we had a chance to talk that day,¡± Arnold replied, taking out a pack of cigarettes from his


    pocket and offering one to Dexter.


    Dexter declined the cigarette. ¡°I¡¯ve quit,¡± he announced tly.


    Arnold¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.


    He tucked the cigarettes away. ¡°Mark knows about this. He¡¯s already grounded Zach at their


    compound. They¡¯re making sure this doesn¡¯t get out.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re trying to sweep this under the rug,¡± Dexter scoffed. ¡°What about Summer?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s heartbroken because of you. What do you think?¡± Arnold lit a cigarette and took a seat in the


    corner.


    ¡°Dex, I never would have thought you¡¯d reveal your rtionship with Josie at such a time. Mark won¡¯t


    let this go easily,¡± Arnold remarked, his eyes narrowing as he watched Dexter through his cigarette


    smoke.


    Dexterughed out loud as if he had just heard the most ridiculous thing in the world. ¡°When has he


    ever made my life easy? But he has always adored you, hasn¡¯t he?¡±


    Arnold pressed Dexter. ¡°Are you going to give up on inheriting their fortune?¡±


    Dexter looked through the windows and saw Josie gently holding Laura¡¯s hand. His heart swelled at the


    sight. After a short pause, he said softly, ¡°I¡¯m content with how things are now. I only need her.¡±


    Arnold flicked the cigarette between his fingers, and the ashes fell onto his fingers. The heat from the


    ashes made his face wrinkle up.


    Josie gripped Laura¡¯s hand tightly, her voice shaking. ¡°Why did he hit you this time? Didn¡¯t he bring you


    out of the mountains?¡±


    Laura¡¯s breathing was shallow, and her body was covered in gauze as if she had beenpletely


    shatte


    ¡°It was Summer¡¯s birthday that day, and the Olsen family had a huge celebration to announce the heir


    the Olsen Group. Zach felt humiliated as if he was beingughed at and made aughingstock, so


    he¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a monster!¡± Josie screamed. ¡°It¡¯s his fault that he¡¯s not good enough, but he¡¯s taking his rage out


    on a


    woman.¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    ¡°Abusers never change. Laura, you need to leave him now.¡±


    Laura closed her eyes and let out a deep sigh. I can¡¯t do that. The Olsen family is very concerned


    about their reputation. The public will criticize them if Zach ends his marriage so soon.¡±


    Josie felt her fury building. ¡°Why are you concerned about their reputation? You were almost beaten to


    death!¡±


    Josieughed bitterly. ¡°I know¡­¡±


    ¡°Then why¡­¡±


    ¡°I really can¡¯t,¡± Laura squeezed Josie¡¯s hands. ¡°I heard that Dexter had announced to the public that


    you¡¯re


    his wife.¡±


    Josie was caught off guard by Laura¡¯s sudden change of topic, but she knew she had to answer. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Laura smiled, her voice tinged with envy. ¡°That¡¯s good. It seems like he is very protective of you, but I


    am not in the same situation as you, Josie. Even after our divorce, Zach could still harm me.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    She knew that Zach was capable of such violence.


    ¡°You¡¯re in a very vulnerable state right now. It will take months for you to recover, and I¡¯m worried


    about. what happens next. What if he continues to hit you?¡±


    ¡°Look on the bright side, Laura said with a tight-lipped smile. ¡°At least he can¡¯t hit me during this time.¡±


    Josie felt a painful wave of emotion swell in her chest. She tried to hide the tears welling up in her eyes


    by turning away from Laura.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Laura said sincerely. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t found me the other day, I would have died in the


    basement.


    ¡°I can¡¯t let you be in danger,¡± Josie responded sincerely, her steely eyes reflected her determination. As


    she mulled over what had happened, she felt like getting Laura out was a fair trade, even though she


    had been exposed as Dexter¡¯s wife during the event.


    Arnold had people guarding the ward. Josie slowly closed the door behind her as she left the room.


    When. she lifted her head, she saw Dexter on a business call..


    ¡°How is she?¡± Arnold asked.

 Chapter 554

    Chapter 554


    Chapter 554 Bothered by Their Rtionship Going Public


    Josie stiffened slightly, understanding what he was referring to. T¡¯m fine,¡± she responded firmly.


    Arnold felt a pang of guilt for involving her in the scandal. ¡°The hat, it¡¯s mine,¡± he exined.


    Unsurprised by the revtion, she replied, ¡°I know. I was an easy target for Summer.¡±


    She raised her gaze to meet his. ¡°Did you really go to see udia? What did she say?¡±


    Arnold sneered, ¡°What else could she say? She didn¡¯t believe me initially, but she agreed to look in the


    basement after I persuaded her. I bet she couldn¡¯t believe her son could be capable of such a


    monstrous


    act.¡±


    ¡°Monstrous¡­¡± Josie¡¯s gaze grew distant. ¡°Isn¡¯t there a monster behind every rich person?¡±


    She recalled a story Laura had once shared about an influential tycoon in Wavery who, despite his


    poor health, took pleasure in tormenting others through the misuse of his wealth and power. During a


    business trip abroad, his secretary arranged for a woman who showed a keen interest in him. He paid


    her two million for five days. Despite the woman¡¯s experience, she could only endure two days before


    being carried out on a stretcher and spending a month in the hospital.


    Ordinary people might have bad habits or weird quirks, but there was a limit to the things they could do.


    People who were both rich and powerful were, however, exempt from those same limits. With no one


    capable of keeping them in check, their depravity knew no bounds.


    Josie fixed her gaze on Arnold, her voice filled with conviction. ¡°I¡¯ve always thought you were that kind


    of


    person.¡±


    Arnold looked her straight in the eye and raised an eyebrow. ¡°You seem to think you know me very


    well.¡±


    ¡°So, are you that kind of person?¡± she challenged.


    Despite Arnold¡¯s carefree and suave demeanor, she knew that he was capable of going overboard


    when having fun.


    ¡°You can try it yourself if you¡¯re so eager to find out.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile faded, offended by Arnold¡¯s dismissive words. She turned her attention away from him


    and noticed Dexter was still talking on his phone.


    In an attempt to shift the conversation and escape the awkwardness, Josie changed the subject, ¡°Have


    the recent projects undertaken by the Carter Group been challenging?¡±


    Noticing Josie¡¯s poor attempt to change the subject, Arnold smiled yfully. ¡°If I reveal the ssified


    information to you, Dexter Russell¡¯s wife, wouldn¡¯t I be betraying the Carters?¡±


    There was a hint of sarcasm in his words, and Josie immediately sensed that he was still bothered by


    that -night when Dexter had publicly announced their rtionship.


    Dexter finished his call and turned around, only to witness the scene of the two holding their gaze at


    each other; their expressions held a yful demeanor. Their gazes, though distant, contained an


    uncanny understanding between them that stabbed Dexter in the heart.


    In an instant, a surge of violent rage welled up inside him.


    Bothered by Their Rtionship Going Public


    Just then, a voice rang out, ¡°Dex.¡±


    They turned their attention and saw udia holding something, seemingly a visiting gift for Laura.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Upon hearing the voice, both Arnold and Josie turned towards her.


    Josie instinctively stepped back, not knowing how to act in front of udia.


    Dexter stepped forward, holding Josie¡¯s hand and pulling her behind him as if trying to shield and


    protect. her. ¡°Aunt udia, you¡¯re here.¡±


    udia looked at Dexter indifferently andmented tly, ¡°You sent someone to get her that day.¡±


    Dexter confirmed her question with a simple ¡°Yes.¡±


    udia nodded and turned to put the things she was carrying into the ward.


    After a while, she got out of the room and gestured to Josie to follow her, ¡°Come with me for a


    moment,¡± she said, her tone indicating there was no room for objection.


    However, Dexter held Josie back, interjecting, ¡°Aunt udia, Josie is a bit shy. If there¡¯s anything, you


    can say it here.¡±


    Josie looked up and stared at him while trying to free her hand from his grip.


    udia¡¯s cold smile remained, clearly disying her displeasure with Dexter¡¯s opposition. ¡°Dex, I don¡¯t


    think she is that shy,¡± she said in a disapproving tone.


    Feeling the tension in the air, Josie quickly intervened. ¡°Mrs. Hadey, I¡­ I¡¯lle right away.¡± Josie


    quickly struggled free from his grasp.

 Chapter 555

    Chapter 555


    Chapter 555 Let¡¯s Pretend We Don¡¯t Know Each Other


    At the end of the corridor, two women stood facing each other, enveloped in an unusual atmosphere.


    Josie lowered her head and spoke first, ¡°Mrs. Hadey, I apologize for ruining Summer¡¯s birthday banquet


    that day.¡±


    udia examined her closely, unable to ept the fact that this soft-spoken woman before her was


    her daughter¡¯s rival in love and Dexter¡¯s wife.


    ¡°You¡¯ve taken me by surprise,¡± she responded coldly.


    Josie nodded in agreement, ¡°I am equally surprised.¡±


    udia¡¯s gaze fell upon the beaded Buddhist bracelet on Josie¡¯s wrist, her thoughts indiscernible


    under her mask of a dignified woman.


    ¡°Dexter has treated you well,¡± udia stated inly.


    Josie hesitated for a moment. ¡°Well¡­perhaps,¡± she spoke uncertainly, as even Josie herself was


    uncertain of Dexter¡¯s feelings.


    ¡°That child has grown up under my care. He is naturally distant, so if he treats you this well, it means


    you are someone he truly cares about,¡± udia said with bitterness. ¡°I¡¯m not surprised that he chose to


    marry


    you.¡±


    Josie understood that Dexter¡¯s feelings for her all came down to her appearance. She exined, ¡°I


    know I bear a resemnce to your missing daughter and Dexter and she shared a special bond from


    their childhood.¡± D


    Upon learning that udia was Leanne¡¯s mother, Josie immediately understood that udia had lived


    in the temple to seek sce in the absence of her daughter.


    udia smiled slightly as she spoke, ¡°I have to thank you for what you did that day. Zach might have


    caused even greater trouble if not for you saving Laura. The scandal surrounding the Olsen family


    would have been immense.¡±


    ¡°Domestic violence is truly despicable, Mrs. Hadey. Please, do everything you can to keep him away


    from Laura, Josie responded with genuine concern.


    Moved by the sincerity in her gaze, udia sighed. ¡°Once Laura has fully recovered, I will make


    arrangements to send her away from Wavery.¡±


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°In the future, we may still cross paths in Wavery, but let¡¯s pretend we don¡¯t know each other,¡± udia


    suggested, leveling her gaze at her.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Josie replied, her voice steady despite the heaviness in her heart.


    udia nodded in acknowledgment and left, leaving Josie to collect her thoughts. Taking a moment to


    compose herself, she returned to Dexter¡¯s side.


    Josie red at him and said with an annoyed tone, ¡°Dexter, can you not make things difficult for


    Arnold?¡±


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Dexter scoffed in disbelief at Josie¡¯s audacity to defend someone other than himself. ¡°What did you


    say? I


    Let¡¯s Pretend We Don¡¯t Know Each Other


    make things difficult for him? Well, it would be great if he doesn¡¯t make things difficult for me.¡±


    ¡°You were the one who crossed the line first,¡± Josie said firmly.


    Dexter stood still, his attempts to calm himself bing more evident. It finally dawned on him that


    Josie held a debt to Arnold and, thus, wouldn¡¯t stand by his side.


    Struggling to force a smile, Dexter reached out and held Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°What did she say to you?¡± he


    asked.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to tell him what had transpired during the past two months of her disappearance.


    Sensing her reluctance, Dexter didn¡¯t push for further information.


    Lowering his voice, Dexter then asked. ¡°What are your ns next?¡±


    Josie took a moment before responding cautiously, ¡°I don¡¯t have any ns.¡±


    Dexter guided her towards the car, but noticed her reluctance to follow. With a furrowed brow, he


    issued a gentle threat, ¡°Remember, my injury hasn¡¯t recovered fully yet.¡±


    She immediatelyplied and got into the car.


    Silence hung in the air for a moment.


    Josie sighed impatiently, ¡°You¡¯re behaving like a little boy pretending to be injured for attention.¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but grin, amused by her teasing tone.


    As they arrived at the hotel, instead of heading upstairs, he led Josie to the lounge. ¡°What would to


    drink?¡± he asked.


    Josie remained silent.

 Chapter 556

    Chapter 556


    Chapter 556 Surpassing the Russell family


    Dexter appeared to have arranged for a meeting with someone, and it didn¡¯t take long for a


    meticulously dressed woman to approach. She was likely in her fifties and had a slightly plump figure.


    Bowing respectfully to Dexter, she apologized, T¡¯m sorry for beingte, Mr. Russell. I just finished


    negotiating a project.¡±


    Josie¡¯s curiosity was piqued upon realizing it was a business meeting, and her impatience subsided


    slightly. She nced at Dexter, waiting for him to provide further exnation.


    ¡°Please, take a seat,¡± Dexter said in his typical polite business voice while pouring a cup of tea for the


    woman.


    The woman, filled with trepidation, hesitated momentarily before sitting beside Josie.


    As their eyes met, the woman eximed softly, ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Since bing a hot topic on social media, everyone recognized Josie¡¯s face.


    Josie felt a headacheing on.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze remained fixed on her, observing her reaction while casually introducing, ¡°This is Ms. -


    Warner, the head of the province¡¯s most renowned engineering outsourcing team.¡±


    Josie was utterly bewildered and confused by Dexter¡¯s intention behind arranging a meeting with


    someone of such influence.


    Despite her confusion, she extended a polite greeting to the woman before her. ¡°Hello, Ms. Warner.¡±


    Ms. Warner smiled warmly as she responded, ¡°Nice to meet you, Mrs. Russell. You and your husband,


    Mr. Russell, make a striking couple.¡±


    Josie was about to refute, but Dexter smoothly interrupted. ¡°Thank you,¡± he said nonchntly while


    raising his teacup, taking a graceful sip as per customary table conducts.


    Josie shot a re at Dexter.


    Ms. Warner, with a polite smile, chimed in, ¡°I received the news in haste and didn¡¯t have time to


    prepare a gift. How about we have dinner together tonight? My treat.¡±


    Dexter, being the talented and ruthless person he was, had revived the Russell Group in his hands.


    The news of their resurgence had spread worldwide, attracting the attention of those eager to climb the


    socialdder. Ms. Warner, recognizing the potential benefits, saw this as a golden opportunity to


    coborate. ¡°No need,¡± Dexter replied indifferently. ¡°I invited you here today to ask for your help, Ms.


    Warner.¡± ¡°What help? Feel free to let me know; I¡¯ll do whatever I can.¡± Ms. Warner eagerly offered her


    support. Josie tightened her grip on the cup, a sense of unease washing over her.


    Dexter responded to Ms. Warner¡¯s question while maintaining a warm gaze on Josie, ¡°I would like you


    to assist in establishing the groundwork for my wife¡¯s studio.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but exim in a hushed voice, ¡°Dexter!¡±


    1/2


    Chapter 556 Surpassing the Russell family


    Dexter remained unfazed.


    Ms. Warner quickly responded, gently asking Josie, ¡°Mrs. Russell, you have a studio?¡±


    Josie replied hesitantly, ¡°Um¡­ I¡¯m one of the partners, mainly responsible for designing


    ¡°How many projects has the studio undertaken?¡± Ms. Warner inquired.


    ¡°Not many, but enough to sustain ourselves.¡± Josie implied, suggesting that they didn¡¯t require any


    assistance.


    Feeling Josie¡¯s reluctance to ept her assistance, Ms. Warner found herself uncertain about how to


    proceed.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter¡¯s words pierced through Ms. Warner¡¯s doubts and uncertainties. ¡°Her channels need to be


    expanded,¡± he stated firmly.


    Josie¡¯s frustration


    reached its peak as she forcefully mmed her hand on the table. ¡°You¡¯re going too far!¡±


    Ms. Warner found herself caught in the middle, realizing that the rtionship between Dexter and Josie


    was not as harmonious as she had initially thought.


    Dexter, unmoved by Josie¡¯s outburst, focused his gaze on her reddened hand. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    In that fleeting moment, Josie felt an intense urge to unleash her anger and curse at him.


    She turned her head, no longer wanting to engage with him.


    Ignoring Josie¡¯s decision to disengage, Dexter remained unfazed and continued his conversation with


    Ms. Warner.


    He sat across from her, calmly discussing the operational strategies for the studio. Dexter effortlessly


    presented threeprehensive ns for every aspect, ranging from business expansion to project.


    marketing.


    Ms. Warner couldn¡¯t help but question if she was truly the industry expert or if Dexter held that title


    instead.

 Chapter 557

    Chapter 557


    Chapter 557 No One Move


    ¡°That¡¯s the n. I hope that my wife¡¯s studio will make a name for itself nationwide within six months


    and even beat the Russells,¡± said Dexter.


    Ms. Warner¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment as she witnessed the ambition radiating from Dexter¡¯s


    calm andposed demeanor. The audacity of his aspirations left her genuinely shocked.


    Even Josie, who initially resisted these ideas, had to reluctantly admit the efficiency of Dexter¡¯s n.


    His strategic vision and determination made it clear that with his execution, bing an industry


    leader was only a matter of time.


    Ms. Warner took a moment toprehend Dexter¡¯s intention. She felt ttered and expressed her


    admiration, ¡°After listening to your words today, I admire you greatly. Truly, talented individuals are


    remarkable no matter where they are.¡±


    Dexter heard her words, but his gaze remained on Josie. With a yful smile, he replied. ¡°Because my


    wife has excellent taste in man.¡±


    Not waiting for Ms. Warner¡¯s response, Dexter got straight to the point, ¡°I know your team has always


    wanted to expand in your field. The Russell Group can support you without any financial obligations.


    The condition is that you must contribute to the sess of my wife¡¯s studio.¡±


    The temptation was immense. As a businessman, Dexter was willing to make a significant investment


    for the sake of his beloved. He knew he was sacrificing potential profits for love.


    Ms. Warner nodded enthusiastically, moved by Dexter¡¯s sincerity. She replied, ¡°Mr. Russell, your


    sincerity is undeniable, and I have no reason to refuse. Rest assured. I will make the necessary


    arrangements immediately.¡±


    After a brief pause, Ms. Warner turned her attention to Josie, who had remained silent throughout the


    discussion. She added, ¡°However¡­ we will need Mrs. Russell to provide us with the studio¡¯s


    information. This will help us understand the direction in which to operate effectively.¡±


    Dexter could make all the other decisions, but Josie had the final say in sharing the studio¡¯s


    information.


    At that moment, Josie finally lifted her head and gazed at Dexter with a hint of provocation as if to say,


    ¡°You talk so much-why don¡¯t you say it?¡±


    Dexter remained unfazed by Josie¡¯s provocative gaze; instead, he smiled faintly. He liked it when she


    acted vivid and lively.


    Josie stood up and disregarded all the ns Dexter had meticulously prepared. She asserted, ¡°This


    studio belongs to Laura and me. Without our authorization, no one can interfere with it.¡±


    After making her statement, Josie didn¡¯t even nce to see Dexter¡¯s reaction when she walked out of


    the


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    room.


    Ms. Warner stood frozen in ce, feeling somewhat awkward and unsure of how to proceed.


    Remainingposed, Dexter rose from his seat and calmly said, ¡°Carry on with the ns. I will send


    you the necessary detailster.¡±


    With that, Dexter left the lounge, leaving Ms. Warner to contemte the unexpected turn of events.


    Confident in his determination, Dexter believed that Josie would ultimatelye to an agreement.


    Josie walked quickly, but she knew no matter where she went, Dexter was certain to catch up, aided by


    the convenience of having a car at his disposal.


    As Dexter trailed behind, two bicycles passed by on the roadside, Riding their bikes was a group of


    high school students still dressed in their uniforms, making their way to school. The boy slowed down


    and held an umbre to shield the girl beside him from the sun.


    The sound of theirughter filled the air, carrying a sense of carefree innocence and freedom from


    worries.


    Josie watched their figures gradually fade into the distance, and a sudden rush of memories from long


    ago flooded her mind.


    She averted her gaze and turned back, her voice firm, I don¡¯t need you to worry about my affairs.


    Dexter chuckled softly, ¡°Ever since you became a hot topic, your information has been widely exposed.


    People know you¡¯re a talented designer and that you¡¯ve even won the Interior Design Award. Soon,


    there will be those who try to tter you because of me. Instead of waiting for them to approach you, I¡¯d


    rather take charge of the situation myself.¡±


    Despite his injuries, Dexter stood tall, exuding confidence and pride.


    Josic listened attentively, her brows slightly furrowed.


    He reached for a cigarette, tapped the box, and pulled one out, but after a moment of consideration, he


    decided against lighting it and ced it back in ce.

 Chapter 558

    Chapter 558


    Chapter 558 Tell Him Everything


    Quitting smoking had been a challenging journey, but in her presence, the cravings diminished. She


    became the recement for his addiction.


    Josie remained in a squatting position, her voice filled with anguish. ¡°Dexter, you always do this. Why


    do you always believe you¡¯re right? Is my opinion less important? Throughout, I¡¯ve felt like nothing


    more than an essory to you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze softened as he looked at her.


    He listened attentively, patiently considering her words. ¡°Like I mentioned earlier, within six months, can


    rise to the top of this industry. I won¡¯t allow others to perceive you merely as an essory to me. Isn¡¯t


    that a good thing?¡±


    you


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not!¡± Josie¡¯s voice echoed, her hair dancing in the wind. ¡°It¡¯s not fulfilling to achieve sess


    without putting in my effort and relying on you to pave the way for me.¡±


    Dexter chuckled, ¡°You do have quite the pride.¡±


    ¡°As a businessman, you prioritize profit and seizing opportunities without considering the emotions of


    others. I can¡¯t be as ruthless as you,¡± Josie exined, her voice tinged with frustration.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes narrowed, and he leaned closer, gently pinching Josie¡¯s chin. ¡°Do you know, I used to be


    just like you? But ever since I embarked on this path, all senses of ethical principles went up in smoke.¡±


    Josie found herself locked in a gaze with his intense, pitch-ck eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lecture me about emotions. Besides you, I have no feelings for anyone. I haven¡¯t made a move


    on Arnold yet because of you. It¡¯s best not to provoke me. Jo,¡± he warned, his voice carrying a hint of


    danger.


    His words struck a nerve within Josie, and she realized he wasn¡¯t joking.


    A throbbing headache overwhelmed Josie, and she couldn¡¯t help but regret getting entangled with this


    man. His words carried an overpowering weight, and every interaction with him felt overwhelming.


    Feeling the blood rushing to her head and dizziness overtaking her, Josie struggled to maintain her


    bnce. She took a few unsteady steps before being caught by Dexter¡¯s firm grasp. His cold smile


    sent shivers down her spine as he spoke in a threatening tone, ¡°Take two days to think it over. But


    remember, your decision will directly determine the future of the Carters.¡±


    Mouth agape, with her eyebrows pinched together, she yelled indignantly, ¡°You¡¯re threatening me!¡±


    ¡°I have no other choice. You¡¯re not a good girl,¡± Dexter replied, his tone surprisingly gentle as he


    pressed his fingertip against Josie¡¯s lips with force.


    Turning away, Josie made up her mind to leave, no longer willing to engage with him. There was no


    reasoning with someone like him. D


    When she returned to her foster father-Paul¡¯s ce, a tinge of disappointment lingered within her that


    Dexter didn¡¯t follow along. (2)


    Paul¡¯s health had improved more than she had anticipated. When he saw her, he let out a sigh and


    suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s eat first.¡±


    1/2


    As they sat at the dining table, Josie kept her head down, her mind burdened with the events of the


    past two months. Finally, she gathered the courage to speak, ¡°Paul, in these past two months, I¡­ I


    went through some things.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Paul raised a hand to interrupt her, his kind eyes filled with understanding. ¡°You don¡¯t have to exin.


    It¡¯s your life, and you have every right to make your own choices.¡±


    Josie paused, her eyes locked with Paul¡¯s, and a sense of relief washed over her. She smiled warmly


    and replied, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Paul poured her a cup of warm water and reassured her, ¡°I¡¯m doing fine. Justin oftenes to see me,


    and¡­ Dexter as well.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyebrows shot up in surprise upon hearing thest few words of Paul¡¯s sentence.


    ¡°He¡¯s sincere, but if you don¡¯t like him, end it,¡± Paul said thoughtfully, his eyes filled with care. ¡°I have


    your back, Josie.¡±


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes as she took in his words. Her heart, once empty, had found sce in


    the presence of someone who cared for her and would protect her.


    ¡°Okay,¡± she replied softly. With tears streaming down her face, she reached out and embraced Paul,


    holding onto him tightly.


    Does it really have to end? Josie questioned herself. Her mind was still in a state of turmoil.


    The next day, as she headed to the studio, ¨¤ Porsche stopped by her path.

 Chapter 559

    Chapter 559


    Chapter 559 High Fever


    The person who stepped out of the car was Moses. He quickly approached Josie, a sense of urgency


    in his. voice as he spoke, ¡°Mr. Russell is in trouble.¡±


    His words were spoken in a hushed tone, not wanting others to overhear.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel concerned. With so many people protecting Dexter, what could have


    possibly happened


    to him?


    Josie furrowed her brows in worry as she asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°His fever won¡¯t go down.¡±


    There was a brief moment of silence as Josie processed Moses¡¯ words. She observed his face closely.


    noticing the fine beads on his forehead. It was clear that he had rushed over to deliver this news.


    Moses, who used to be rebellious towards Dexter, now appeared genuinely concerned for him. Josie


    couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of worry herself.


    ¡°And? What does it have to do with me? I¡¯m not a doctor,¡± she muttered, faking a hint of detachment in


    her


    voice/


    Moses grew increasingly anxious, his voice trembling slightly. ¡°He has been calling out your name


    nonstop¡­ Please,e with me. He refuses to take the medicine, and his condition is getting serious.¡±


    Dexter caught a coldst night, andbined with his unhealed injuries, he fell ill the next day.


    He had a high fever and was delirious, refusing to let a doctor see him, and kept calling Josie¡¯s name.


    Larry, the secretary, told Moses to quickly find someone who could help.


    Josie, on the other hand, had been hoping for a peaceful day, but now she waspelled to go see


    Dexter. She was far from pleased. ¡°Moses, you need to understand one thing. I have no obligation to


    take care of him. When someone is sick, they should see a doctor, note to me and talk nonsense.¡±


    However, Moses was undeterred by her resistance. ¡°When you were away, he spent a lot of time and


    effort looking for you in Rivodia for two months. Since your return, he has been upied with your


    studio¡­ He hasn¡¯t had a proper night¡¯s sleep. He even stood outside your building all night


    yesterday¡­


    Did he stand outside all night?


    Josie furrowed her brows slightly; although worried about Dexter¡¯s condition, she said matter-of-factly,


    ¡°I¡¯ve never asked him to do all of this.¡±


    Moses froze, realizing that he had misjudged Josie¡¯s feelings for Dexter, and began to turn away.


    As Josie¡¯s gaze followed Moses¡¯ deste figure, a pang of guilt tugged at her heart. The memory of


    Dexter turning away the previous night shed before her eyes. She found herself clutching her


    sleeves tightly.


    Just as Moses was about to get into the car, Josie¡¯s voice rang out, ¡°Wait! I¡¯ll go with you!¡±


    Moses paused, his eyes widening in surprise.


    Dexter was still in the hotel room, refusing to allow the doctor inside. The staff breathed a sigh of relief


    when they saw Josie. She tightened her lips and instructed, ¡°Come in with me


    She knew theyout and cement of everything in the room better than anyone else.


    The room was messy, with broken items scattered on the floor from Dexter¡¯s temper tantrums.


    Josie carefully walked over and saw Dexter lying in bed, sleeping with a high fever. He looked very


    ufortable, with his arms red and trembling. His lips had turned pale, and his breathing was heavy.


    He was as stubborn as she had anticipated.


    Requesting the doctor¡¯s assistance, Josie watched as they examined Dexter. His temperature was


    measured at a high thirty-nine point four degrees.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The doctor administered an injection, causing Dexter to wince in pain.


    Josie observed closely for any signs of the fever subsiding. The doctor prescribed some medicine and


    instructed her. ¡°Make sure he takes the medicine with warm water. I¡¯ll be outside. Call me immediately


    if anything happens.¡±


    Josie held the medicine in her hand. The hot water she had prepared had already started cooling


    down.


    ¡°Thank you, doctor,¡± she expressed her gratitude.


    Following the doctor¡¯s instructions, Josie opened the medicine and sat by the bed.


    With great effort, she aided Dexter in sitting up, allowing him to lean against her for support. ¡°Dexter,


    wake up. Take the medicine first. It¡¯s me,¡± she called out.

 Chapter 560

    Chapter 560


    Chapter 560 Apology and Redemption


    Josie¡¯s voice sounded muffled and distant, yet Dexter managed to hear it. He reached out and grabbed


    her wrist, his body temperature almost scorching her skin.


    His grip was strong despite his weakened state.


    Feeling the pain from his firm grasp, Josie furrowed her brows as she stubbornly ced a pill by his


    lips and handed him water. But he didn¡¯t open his mouth, causing the water to spill over.


    Covered in sweat, Josie called, ¡°Dexter, Dexter?¡±


    The pill melted in Dexter¡¯s mouth, its bitterness perhaps unnoticed amidst his condition.


    Josie couldn¡¯t do anything else but observe that he didn¡¯t spit it out. Deciding to withhold the water, she


    silently resolved to let him endure the difort.


    With that in mind, she gentlyid him back down and prepared to leave. However, her wrist was firmly


    grasped, and she found herself pulled into Dexter¡¯s embrace.


    In a hoarse voice, he whispered into her ear, ¡°Stay with me.¡±


    The warm touch reached Josie¡¯s skin through their clothes, causing her to furrow her brows in


    difort.


    He remained with his eyes closed throughout, yet he relied on his senses alone to recognize her


    presence, tightening his grip even more.


    He whispered breathlessly, ¡°Stay with me and sleep for a while, just a little while.¡±


    Josie¡¯s back stiffened, and she didn¡¯t dare moye a muscle. She listened to his gradually calming


    breaths.


    As Dexter gradually drifted into sleep, Josie found it difficult to find her ownfort from his powerful


    grip. She used all her strength to adjust to a slightly morefortable position.


    Raising her gaze, she found herself face-to-face with Dexter.


    He looked peaceful while sleeping, utterly different from his usual imposing and cold demeanor. He


    even appeared somewhat cute.


    His eyshes trembled slightly, his lips tightly pressed together as if he didn¡¯t sleep soundly.


    They were so close that Josie could see the hint of stubble on his chin, which would be prickly to touch.


    Lost in her thoughts, she continued to gaze at him.


    After Dexter had received an injection and taken medicine, he began to sweat. After some time had


    passed, Josie touched him and found that his fever had subsided.


    Taking the opportunity of his deep sleep, she got up and fetched a towel. She dampened it with water


    and wiped away the sweat from his body.


    While waiting for him to wake up, she sat on the windowsill, and her attention was momentarily drawn


    to a folder ced next to hisputer. Thebel on the folder read, ¡°nk.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat as she nced at the folderbeled with the name of the studio.


    Before she knew it, her fingertips had instinctively opened the file. Inside, she found nning proposals


    for the studio, filled with densely packed words and concepts.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dozens of pages, with his handwritten annotations in ces that required attention or improvement.


    Josie went through each page, then looked back at Dexter lying on the bed, her mind lost in her


    thoughts.


    Dexter, the CEO of the Russell Group, who handled billion-dor deals daily, had dedicated his


    precious. time and expertise to work on the nning for her studio.


    The things Dexter had created over the years were always highly sought after in the market.


    Josie lowered her gaze and couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    She had never mentioned anything about the studio to Dexter, yet he urately grasped her ideas and


    concepts for the studio.


    As she reached thest page of the file, Josie¡¯s eyes fixated on a line written by Dexter in the nk


    space.


    ¡®I want to apologize to her. It was my negligence that ruined her many expectations. I don¡¯t know how to


    love.


    Dexter¡¯s handwriting had always seemed rather messy, and his signature was done with just a few


    strokes.


    But when he wrote seriously, his handwriting was exquisite.


    In that line which he wrote, each character he wrote carries a sense of regret.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but admit that Dexter¡¯s ability to scheme surpassed anyone else¡¯s. He seemed to


    urately anticipate her thoughts and even expected her toe across the file.


    As he had nned, Josie finally believed that this time, Dexter¡¯s actions all these while were made


    sincerely to apologize and seek redemption.


    She closed the file slowly; the words echoed in her mind, affirming the truth of the statement: When


    you¡¯re young, encountering someone too astonishing can be overwhelming.


    Indeed, that sentence held a profound truth.

 Chapter 561

    Chapter 561


    Chapter 561 Winning the Bet


    Dexter was awakened by a faint and elusive fragrance. As he opened his eyes, he realized that the


    soreness in his body had finally subsided, although he found himself drenched in sweat. He rubbed his


    forehead and sat up, his gaze falling upon several white water lilies delicately arranged on the bedside


    table.


    Sounds wereing from the small kitchen in the room. Dexter nced over and saw Josie standing


    there, seemingly simmering soup, her back turned to him.


    Dexter curved his lips, not wanting to disturb this tranquility.


    Quietly getting up, he entered the bathroom to take a shower.


    When he came out again, Josie was no longer there. Dexter wondered if he had been caught in a


    dream. unsure if the serene scene he had witnessed before was real or a figment of his imagination.


    But the soup she had stewed was ced on the table, a tangible reality.


    Josie hadn¡¯t left anything behind, and Dexter instinctively looked toward the windowsill. Still, there were


    no signs of it being touched.


    Using a towel to dry his hair with one hand, he sat at the dining table and scooped himself a bowl of his


    movements somewhat sluggish as he slowly sipped it.


    Her culinary skills were excellent, and it had been long since he tasted such a delectable meal.


    Despite the mouth-watering meal filling his stomach, a sense of destion washed over him.


    Dexter closed his eyes.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Suddenly, he stood up, not wearing his outer coat, and dashed out the door.


    Larry, who was standing outside the door, was startled by Dexter¡¯s sudden appearance. Watching the


    man¡¯s figure swiftly disappear, he shouted, ¡°Mr. Russell, please put on your coat! You haven¡¯t fully


    recovered yet!¡±


    There was no response from Dexter.


    Larry stomped his foot in frustration and returned to fetch Dexter¡¯s coat before following him.


    Josie was standing by the roadside, looking around the surroundings as she waited for a car.


    soup.


    The surrounding was bustling, but she stood still, her beautiful yet wistful figure drawing the attention of


    those around her.


    Dexter¡¯s footsteps stopped as he observed her figure from a distance. Her hair, still damp from the


    shower, framed her face delicately, adding to her gentle aura.


    -Sensing his intense gaze, Josie slowly turned around, meeting his eyes directly, and spoke, ¡°I was


    taking a


    gamble just now. If you manage to catch up to me, I¡¯ll agree to your conditions.¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips and grabbed Josie¡¯s hand, walking ahead without uttering a word.


    ¡°So, you won the bet.¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze and followed beside him, not resisting.


    She spoke deliberately softly and said, ¡°I haven¡¯t eaten yet.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s steps faltered slightly. Looking around, he saw a night market close enough.


    He led her there, tightly gripping her hand, asionally loosening his grip, afraid of hurting her. Night


    markets were always crowded, bustling with people brushing against each other.


    Dexter, who was ustomed to more luxurious settings, didn¡¯t show the slightest hint of disdain.


    Josie picked a barbecue stall, ordered several skewers, and handed the menu to Dexter. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring


    any money, so I might need you to payter.¡±


    Her innocent doe eyes seemed particrly harmless amidst the swirling smoke.


    Dexter patted his pocket, realizing his wallet and phone were not with him. He looked up, and Larry


    stood behind them, guarding the car. He had driven it over.


    Dexter smiled warmly and nodded.


    Josie wiped the table and chairs with a tissue. As she did, she finally disclosed, ¡°I¡¯ve been staying in


    the mountains for the past two months and haven¡¯t had any meat.¡±


    Dexter sensed that she had something on her mind. She ordered two boxes of beer, which made him


    furrow his brows slightly.


    Josie opened a can of beer and took a sip, her face scrunching up from the bitterness.

 Chapter 562

    Chapter 562


    Chapter 562 We Would Still Have Kids


    Dexter reached out to grab it, but she skillfully dodged, smirking at him. His elongated frame seemed


    out of ce.


    That shirt he wore was worth a fortune.


    Dexter¡¯s face looked pallid from his illness, yet he still exuded a captivating aura.


    ¡°You are ill. You can¡¯t drink or cat skewers. You can only watch me eat,¡± Josie said curtly.


    ¡°I am not going to eat. Dexter replied, unfazed by her reluctance.


    ¡°I¡¯ve made soup.¡±


    ¡°No time for that. You¡¯re leaving in a bit.


    Josie pondered and agreed with his statement.


    She drank from the soda can, sip by sip. She scowled at the bitter taste, but it left a lingering


    sweetness as an aftertaste. Despite the alluring aroma and steam rising from the sizzling skewers,


    Dexter refrained from taking a single bite.


    He secretly watched as the delicate woman fearlessly devoured the skewers and gulped down beer.


    It was a sight he rarely witnessed from Josie.


    After getting married, she shed her carefree spirit and embraced the role of aposed and poised


    Mrs. Russell.


    Amidst the billowing smoke, his gaze lingered on Josie, enraptured by her reveling in newfound joy and


    freedom.


    A bitter pang surged through him. He fumbled in search of a cigarette, only to realize he had none.


    Dexter asked cautiously, ¡°Was what you said true? Will you allow me to assist you in your studio?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face flushed, and replied, ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask me why I was in the mountains?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dexter earnestly said, ¡°I was told that you had gone to Rivodia. My team searched for extensively but


    couldn¡¯t find you. So, you stayed in Wavery, is that right?¡±


    He had an inkling that Rivodia was a mere diversion.


    you there


    Though Josie didn¡¯t know how he discovered her presence in Rivodia, she could only imagine his


    immense frustration after an exhaustive yet futile search. He would likely have turned Rivodia upside


    down in his pursuit.


    She smiled and nodded, ¡°I was in the church in Sousturham.¡±


    A sudden realization struck Dexter. He could never have guessed that Josie went there.


    ¡°I spent two months there, observing strict vegetarianism and reciting scriptures, mourning our first


    child¡¯s loss.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s whole body stiffened; a sour tinge traveled in his nostrils.


    Josie sipped her drink and continued, ¡°This child was not meant to stay. So, I won¡¯t me you for it.


    But I can¡¯t forgive myself for giving him such misery.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s sickly pale face grew even paler. ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I wasn¡¯t fit to conceive. Don¡¯t me yourself.¡±


    His excessive social engagements, apanied by heavy smoking and drinking, had contributed to


    the ectopic pregnancy. He bore some responsibility.


    Despite sessfully quitting smoking, he found it challenging to maintain sobriety.


    ¡°Jo, despite losing our first child, we will have a second, a third child as long as we are together,¡± he


    spoke gently, hoping to alleviate her from self-me.


    ¡°Will we have more children?¡± Josie¡¯s difort was reflected in her strained expression as she


    scrutinized. ¡°Dexter, you are a good man, but I fear I am not worthy of being your match.¡±


    Dexter grew unsettled by her words and was about to respond when Josie continued, ¡°In recent times.


    I¡¯ve witnessed your triumphant resurgence. You stand confidently in front of the media, seemingly


    invincible. But as you stand before me, I ask myself, can we continue?¡±

 Chapter 563

    Chapter 563


    Chapter 563 We Won¡¯t Get a Divorce


    She paused, and Dexter held his breath, awaiting her following words.


    ¡°But at that moment, my mind went nk. I didn¡¯t know,¡± she confessed.


    ¡°Do you know who I met at the church? Mrs. Hadey, who is none other than udia Hadey.¡±


    That one sentence awakened Dexter.


    It all made sense.


    ¡°I never imagined that udia Hadey is Summer¡¯s mother,¡± Josiemented and closed her eyes, ¡°She


    is a very gentle woman. I even told her I wished she were my mother, but s¡­¡±


    She couldn¡¯t continue.


    She could never heal from the pain of never receiving a mother¡¯s love.


    Dexter frowned; the muscles along his jaw tightened.


    ¡°Social ss erects lifelong barriers that cannot be ovee.¡±


    Josie opened her eyes and added, ¡°I thought I was your first wife and genuinely liked you. But the


    reality is harsh, Dexter. Sooner orter, we will end up divorcing Your ideal partner should be a


    sophisticated and educated woman from a wealthy family I cannot fulfill that role. How will I live my life


    if I can¡¯t move on?¡±


    Josie had spoken so much that her face flushed, and Dexter reached out, cradling her face warmly.


    Little did she know, a wave of anger raged in his heart.


    Gradually, Josie fell silent, copsing into Dexter¡¯s embrace. She gently touched his face, asking, ¡°Did I


    cry¡­? I thought I wouldn¡¯t cry anymore¡­¡±


    ¡°Josie, we won¡¯t get a divorce,¡± Dexter whispered, stroking her hair tenderly.


    She felt intoxicated, but there was a firm sense of sobriety underneath. ¡°I¡¯ve tried, but there are too


    many obstacles between us. We cannot reach the end, do you understand?¡±


    Josie had epted her fate.


    Dexter gently caressed her face as his chest heaved with turmoil.


    After a while, Dexter finally looked up and beckoned his secretary, Larry, toe over.


    He took the car keys from him and ordered, ¡°Go settle the bill.¡±


    -He lifted Josie, ced her in the passenger seat, reclined it, and fastened her seatbelt before


    adjusting the


    temperature to a warmer setting.


    Dexter was sober and drove outte at night to find empty streets with few cars.


    He continued driving, passing the city hall, Wavery University, and the lengthy coastline, He


    elerated as the city fell silent. The rushing wind filled his ears, but the weight in his heart remained.


    After driving for a while, he finally pulled over. He was still coughing uncontrobly, having not fully


    recovered from his illness.


    Turning his head, he noticed Josie sleeping soundly, covered with a small nket.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    What was she dreaming about? Was he a part of her dreams?


    Josie and Dexter were perceptive about each other¡¯s motivations. Josie saw through Dexter¡¯s fake


    illness as a way to reunite, and Dexter figured out Josie¡¯s hidden intentions behind her drunken words.


    Josie woke up to sunlight piercing through her eyelids. She shielded her eyes and saw the car had


    stopped near Pop¡¯s residence.


    Dexter, who hadn¡¯t slept all night, looked at her and muttered, ¡°Hi, sleepyhead.¡±


    Josie stared nkly at him.


    The soft, orange glow delicately kissed his face, softened his features, and revealed a glimpse of the


    youthful man he once was rather than the formidable Mr. Russell he had be.


    The steady beat of her heart resonated in her ears.


    Josie withdrew her gaze. ¡°Did I spend the night here?¡±


    His expression dulled, ¡°You drank too muchst night. I heard many things from you.¡±

 Chapter 564

    Chapter 564


    Chapter 564 The Proposal


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean what I said,¡± she admitted, her fingers clenched tightly.


    Dexter remainedposed, his gaze fixed on her. ¡°From now on, I can assure you that no other


    woman wille between us, and I won¡¯t let any pressure get the best of me. Josie, can you trust


    me?¡±


    Her voice caught in her throat momentarily,


    The car radio was left on. The presenter¡¯s voice is barely audible, discussing some current events.


    Dexter pressed, ¡°l, well, never really considered our future. After we lost the child, I quit smoking.¡±


    This statement caught Josie off guard. Dexter was a chain smoker, and quitting had seemed


    impossible. But as Josie recollected their recent days together, she noticed that he hadn¡¯t smoked once


    in her presence.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°I want to have a child with you.¡± He enunciated each word slowly, ¡°I want to make things right between


    1. us.


    With a charming smile, he reached for a small box and opened it to reveal a stunning diamond ring that


    caught Josie¡¯s eye. Dexter then unbuckled his seatbelt, dropped to one knee, and nervously asked,


    ¡°Would you do me the honor of starting afresh in our marriage?¡± His sincerity and optimism filled the air


    with excitement and joy. D


    Josie¡¯s stomach flipped as she tenderly brushed against his teary eyes.


    Their marriagemenced as a transaction, yet as it neared its end, he knelt before her in hopes of


    romantically starting anew.


    Josie¡¯s heart swelled.


    After a long while, she asked hesitantly, ¡°Not merely a transaction?¡±


    ¡°A transaction no longer binds us,¡± Dexter said with a gentle smile, his pallid face glowed despite his


    illness. ¡°I took a detourst night to find an open jewelry store and bought this ring. It may not be as


    precious as the one I gave you when we first married, but its significance is different. I hope you don¡¯t


    mind.¡± D


    How could she possibly mind when such an incredible man was willing to do all this for her?


    In the silence that followed, the radio host abruptly interrupted with breaking news-¡°Olsen group


    announces marriage with Arnold Carter, the executive of Carter Group.¡±


    She froze as she stared at Dexter.


    The marriage announcement implied that Summer had finally made apromise.


    Summer had decided to marry Arnold Carter. She had based her decision on the rumors of Zach¡¯s -


    domestic abuse and Dexter¡¯s public deration of his rtionship with Josie. This path was the one


    that


    would benefit her the most.


    This alliance will definitely change the dynamics in Wavery.


    Dexter waited patiently for Josie¡¯s response, unfazed.


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡± Josie huffed softly as she extended her finger, knowing that this marriage was no longer a


    contract.


    Dexter¡¯s face lit up as he slid the diamond ring onto her left hand, intertwining their destinies.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go meet your father.¡±


    He pressed the central lock to unlock the vehicle and guided Josie by the hand as they walked


    together.


    ¡°If you hadn¡¯t agreed just now, would you have let me get out of the car?¡± she asked. Dexter chuckled


    and replied, ¡°If you hadn¡¯t agreed, I would have let you go.


    If you truly love someone, you would have let them go for their happiness.


    Josie¡¯s muscles rxed as she uttered with a bright smile lifting her features, ¡°I¡¯m starving.¡±


    ¡°What would you like to have?¡±


    ¡°Your homemade soup.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    As they knocked on the door, Josie¡¯s father looked up. He saw them holding hands, feeling both


    surprised and relieved. ¡°Come in,¡± he said.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.

 Chapter 565

    Chapter 565


    Chapter 565 Life Seemed Trivial


    A fiery torrent of wrath and disdain arose in Summer.


    Anger thrummed through her veins as she shattered all her objects in the master bedroom.


    ¡°How could this happen? I have no interest in Arnold¨Cwhy did I marry him and spend the rest of my life


    with him?¡± She was trembling with rage.


    Since Dexter publicly revealed Josie¡¯s identity at her birthday banquet, Summer became the


    laughingstock of the entire Wavery City, with people using her of being a wanton woman trying to


    break apart a married couple.


    Even she couldn¡¯t believe that Dexter would risk offending her and the entire Olsen family for the sake


    of Josie.


    Was Josie really that important?


    Summer was exhausted from her outburst and sat on the floor, panting tearfully.


    When udia arrived, she found Summer in such a disheveled state that was not befitting of a young,


    dignified woman of her status. udia heaved a sigh softly, ¡°Get up.¡±


    Summer heard the sound and looked up at udia¡¯s feet, feeling even more aggrieved. ¡°Why did


    Father arrange it this way? You both know that I don¡¯t like Arnold Carter.¡±


    She remained still, so udia had to bend down and help her up. ¡°Arnold is a good man. He has been


    there for you all these years, unwavering. Even if you don¡¯t love him, you should be grateful.¡±


    Summer couldn¡¯t deny her gratitude towards Arnold Carter, the only person who visited her during her


    time abroad.


    ¡°But, Mother, being grateful is not love.¡±


    ¡°Then who do you love? Dexter?¡± udia reached out and tidied her disheveled hair. ¡°Sum, he has


    already openly acknowledged his wife on your birthday¨Che doesn¡¯t love or care about you. If you


    persist, you will ruin your own life.¡±


    Summer listened and gradually calmed down. ¡°But I am unwilling. I can wait for them to get divorced¡­¡±


    udia fell silent and stared at her quietly.


    It was demeaning for her to say that, and her voice weakened.


    ¡°This marriage is the best for you, for Arnold, for the Olsen family, and for the Carter family. Sum, don¡¯t


    give up on yourself. You have a long life ahead, and you deserve your own happiness,¡± udia spoke


    slowly, her eyes filled withpassion for her daughter.


    Summer sat opposite her, and tears welled up. She suddenly asked, ¡°Mother, I heard from Father that


    were surprised when Josie appeared. Why?¡±


    She was desperate for an answer. Thus her eyes fixated on udia, not daring to blink.


    udia evaded the question and said, ¡°I was just surprised. I never expected Dexter to marry someone


    like her.¡±


    you


    ¡°Really?¡± Summer probed as her heart shattered.


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± udia replied calmly, with no hint of a white lie.


    ¡°Why did you help her rescue Laura? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to let her die in the basement, where no one


    would know and the Olsen family wouldn¡¯t be tainted with scandal, and our father wouldn¡¯t send away


    my brother? Isn¡¯t that better?¡± she murmured.


    udia, almost furious, looked at her daughter in disbelief and gasped, ¡°Summer, do you even realize


    what you¡¯re saying? That was a human life! Your brothermitted a crime! Is a life that trivial to you?!


    You weren¡¯t like this before.¡±


    Summer fell silent.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Exasperated, udia shook her head and continued, ¡°My dear Summer, though she may seem


    restless and stubborn now, she has always been kind¨Chearted since she was little.¡±


    Summer choked, ¡°But have you ever been with us? Since Liana left, how much attention have you


    given to me and my brother? It¡¯s only natural for him to go down this path. So even if everyone mes


    him, I don¡¯t me him!¡±

 Chapter 566

    Chapter 566


    Chapter 566 The Truth Behind Josie¡¯s Birth


    ¡®Smack!¡®


    udia raised her hand and delivered a sharp p.


    ¡°Madam!¡± The servant gasped.


    Summer fell to the ground and held her face in disbelief as she looked up at the quivering woman


    before her. She continued, ¡°Did I say anything wrong? It¡¯s like you¡¯ve lost your soul since she left.


    You¡¯ve abandoned me and my brother, consumed by your devotion and prayers. Will reciting God¡¯s


    words and prayers bring her back? It¡¯s been so many years, and there¡¯s still no trace of her anywhere!¡±


    Those words struck udia¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You¡¯ve neglected and abandoned your entire family, treating me like I never existed. Would you kick


    me out and let Liana inherit the Olsen family if she were to return?¡± D


    Summer¡¯s voice quavered as tears streaked her face. The lead in her body finally lifted.


    ¡°Summer, this is absurd! How can you even say such a thing?¡± udia¡¯s voice trembled as she bent


    over, clutching her chest. ¡°I have dedicated my life to raising you and your brother. Haven¡¯t you felt the


    love I haye for both of you?¡±


    ¡°And as for Liana, she is your sister, your own flesh and blood. How can you be so cold¨Chearted?¡±


    Summer raised an eyebrow, smiling as she said, ¡°I don¡¯t feel that way. I¡¯ve barely seen her a few times.


    I never considered her as a sister, just a vague figure. I don¡¯t understand why you can¡¯t move on


    because of her.¡±


    Each sentence that left her mouth continued to pierce udia¡¯s heart deeper. She was too furious to


    speak, her lower lips trembling with suppressed rage.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Summer knelt on the ground, clutching her legs. Her eyes filled with fear and anxiety as she added,


    ¡°Mother, will you not want me anymore if Liana returns?¡±


    udia lowered her gaze coldly.


    Anxiety crawled over her body as she uttered, ¡°Is it true? I¡¯m terrified, Mother. I have nightmares every


    night where you only love my sister and don¡¯t even see me. Will those dreamse true?¡±


    udia sensed the fear in Summer¡¯s voice. She felt slightly calm as she stroked her head gently and


    reassured her, ¡°You¡¯re both my daughters. How could that be? You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    As Summer held onto her tightly, her mind filled with the recent information the detective had


    uncovered.


    ¡°As for Paul, he used to be a surgeon at Rivodia Hospital, and Josie was adopted by him while working


    there. His wife was always unhappy about it. Later, he made a medical mistake and was fired from the


    hospital. The whole family moved to Wavery City,¡± The detective informed as he presented a stack of


    documents.


    ¡°Indeed, Josie is not his biological child.¡±


    ¡°All the surveince cameras malfunctioned then, leaving no trace of the missing Liana, in the Olsen


    family¡¯s search. Over the years, finding any leads has be even more challenging. Without Ms.


    Olsen


    providing the crucial clue and aligning the time and location with Paul, the truth of Josie being Liana


    wouldn¡¯t have been uncovered.¡±


    With everythinging to light, Summer closed her eyes and asked, ¡°If Dexter and the Olsen family


    investigate Josie, will they discover all of this?¡±


    ¡°Highly unlikely, as even Paul himself is unaware that Josie is the child who went missing from the


    Olsen family years ago.¡±


    ¡°This matter must be kept strictly confidential. Any leakage will cost you your life!¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ Ms. Olsen, then what about the money¡­


    ¡°Collect it in two hours.¡±


    Summer opened her eyes as she returned to the present moment. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mother. I got carried


    away and spoke out of turn. Please don¡¯t be angry.


    udia¡¯s anger was alleviated. She sighed, ¡°You have suffered much all these years, and Mother is


    sorry for that.¡±


    Summer gently shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m doing well. From now on, I will follow the path and live even


    better. I will marry Arnold.¡±

 Chapter 567

    Chapter 567


    Chapter 567 I¡¯m Not Your Most Beloved Person


    The wedding of Summer and Arnold took ce at thergest hotel in Wavery, which belonged to the


    Olsen family.


    Both families created an extravagant spectacle. On that day, the tworgest airports in Wavery were


    closed, and security was tight. nes and private jets arrived one after another, weing important


    guests to the wedding.


    The banquet hall had 288 tables, hosting esteemed guests and media from various sectors. The city¡¯s


    top officials personally officiated the ceremony, marking it as the wedding of the century.


    How deeply in love can a man be with a woman to proudly and publicly dere her as his to the entire


    world?


    The makeup artist eagerly shared the media¡¯s tteringments in the dressing room while Summer


    meticulously shaped her eyebrows. Lost in thought, she gazed at her morous reflection in the mirror.


    of true


    Her eyebrows had arched in a beautiful curve; her eyes gleamed like peach blossoms. Her petite face


    was framed by flowing locks that cascaded softly down to her chest, exuding the enchanting allure


    Southern beauty. When she smiled, her warmth and intelligence shone through, captivating the hearts


    of all who beheld her.


    Wedding days are often seen as the most cherished and breathtaking moments for brides.


    Unfortunately, today, this bride married someone who was not her heart¡¯s desire.


    The bride¡¯s gown was worth millions, adorned with meticulous diamonds. A Spanish tailor spent a


    month crafting this bejeweled masterpiece.


    Arnold was awestruck as he saw the dress, taking him back to his youth when he walked home with a


    girl in her school uniform.


    ¡°How do I look?¡± Summer nced back at the mirror.


    Arnold usually dressed casually, but his wedding suit entuated his tall and graceful physique.


    ¡°You¡¯re gorgeous,¡± he leaned in and touched her shoulder. At that moment, he noticed a faint red mark


    where the wedding dress had gently pressed against her skin.


    Noticing where his gazended, Summer¡¯s jaw tightened, and she quickly muttered, ¡°It¡¯s just a slightly


    tight fit. I can manage.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Arnold apologized and quickly withdrew his hand.


    ¡°I never expected that the person who knows me best would one day forget my size,¡± Summer tilted


    her head and gave him a faint smile.


    Arnold¡¯s heart remained hollow and vacant as her mouth curved into a gentle smile.


    He stood up and said, ¡°That day was solely to save someone¡¯s life-I never intended to embarrass you.


    I¡¯m


    sorry.¡±


    Summer and Arnold hadn¡¯t met ever since the day of the birthday banquet. Mark and udia


    orchestrated the wedding arrangements.


    |||


    1/2


    Up,ced him directly, and recounted, ¡°On my eighteenth birthday, when my parents were busy with


    work, you took me outte at night. We climbed the tallest mountain in the city, and when I grew tired,


    you carried me to the summit. At midnight, we gazed upon the beautiful night view of the city. view. You


    told me we should always be this happy in the future.¡±


    ¡°I knew right then that you liked me.¡±


    Her mouth twitched, and she continued, ¡°I am twenty-two now. I threw a birthday party that was more


    extravagant than ever. Everyone congratted me, except for you. You were being cold to me.¡±


    ¡°Arnold, do you still have any feelings for me?¡±


    The question lingered as Arnold stared at Summer, and a grave hollow filled his heart. His silence grew


    heavier as he struggled to find the right words to respond.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.

 Chapter 568

    Chapter 568


    Chapter 568 The Wedding


    ¡°Many say I¡¯m cold-blooded for ignoring your pursuit all these years, but they don¡¯t know that you never


    liked me. (3)


    Arnold stood face to face with Summer and remained silent.


    Just then, a server knocked on the door. ¡°It¡¯s about time, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Summer smirked. ¡°I have no other intentions. I just want to remind you not to forget about the hatred


    because of others.


    As Summer turned around, Arnold grasped her wrist and pulled her into his arms. He buried his head in


    her neck and whispered. ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t forget it. Sum, I haven¡¯t forgotten that we¡¯re partners too.¡±


    Summer didn¡¯t break away from Arnold but embraced him. ¡°Good to know. I¡¯m only left with you now.¡±


    Josie had kept Laura in Mason Garden to recover ever since Laura was discharged from the hospital,


    and Laura had rarely headed out.


    She had received the invitation to Arnold and Summer¡¯s wedding and was not allowed to reject it. The


    Olsen family intended for Laura to attend the wedding to cover up the previous scandals.


    ¡°Look. Being in a rich family is all about putting on shows.¡± Laura hummed indifferently as she curled


    up on a recliner, basking in the autumn sun.


    Josie knew there was nothing she could do about it. She picked a scarf from her wardrobe and put it


    around Laura¡¯s neck to hide the ugly bruises. ¡°Since it¡¯s just for show, all you need to do is to show up.


    I reckon the Olsens won¡¯t give you a hard time.¡±


    Laura made noments as Josie put the scarf around her neck.


    ¡°Thanks for taking care of me these days. I have to leave after today.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°Where else can you go? You can¡¯t go back to the Olsens.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Laura smiled. ¡°Do you remember Dr. Morgan, the psychologist you introduced to me? He¡¯s a


    kind man and helped me find a ce to stay. It¡¯s convenient for him toe and treat me too.¡±


    Josie understood that, given Laura¡¯s situation, she needed the intervention of a psychologist.


    ¡°Can this Dr. Morgan be trusted? Be careful not to get scammed.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who introduced him to me. Why are you worried?¡±


    Only then did Josie remember that Dr. Morgan was introduced to her by Matthew, so there shouldn¡¯t be


    any problem.


    ¡°If I continue staying here, someone¡¯s gonna detest me, Laura¡¯s casual remark reached the ears of


    Dexter, who wasing downstairs. He was dressed in a white long-sleeve blouse with half of his


    watch revealed


    at his wrist.


    He lifted his eyebrows and said, ¡°Since when did you learn to be ungrateful, Laura?¡±


    Lauraughed Josir trotted to Dexter and asked, ¡°What time are you leaving?¡±


    |||


    1/2


    Dexter held her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°I think I better stay back.¡±


    Dexter caressed the ring on Josie¡¯s finger. ¡°You¡¯re my wife. If you don¡¯t attend the wedding with me,


    others might think my wife doesn¡¯t care for me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s cheeks blushed as Dexter teased her. ¡°Laura¡¯s here.¡± She muttered in embarrassment.


    Laura sensibly averted her gaze. ¡°I didn¡¯t hear anything.


    N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Dexter remained smiling and insisted, ¡°Let¡¯s go together. There¡¯ll be plenty of asions like this in the


    future where I¡¯ll need my wife to apany me.¡±


    Josie was in a quandary. ¡°But udia said she didn¡¯t want to see me again.¡± Even though it had been


    a while, Josie still felt depressed when she thought about udia¡¯s words.


    Dexter bent down slightly and pinched Josie¡¯s cheek. ¡°You¡¯re not there today to meet her but to tell


    everyone you¡¯re my only wife.¡±

 Chapter 569

    Chapter 569


    Chapter 569 No Regrets.


    Dexter was so persistent that Josie couldn¡¯t reject him further. ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Moses dropped Laura at the hotel while Dexter sent Josie to the stylist to dress up.


    The stylist tied up Josie¡¯s hair and helped her wear elegant makeup. Her lipstick was a deep shade of


    red, and she wore a golden strapless long dress that exposed her slender shoulder and calves. Her


    outfit wasplemented by a pair of four-inch stilettos, which she confidently walked on.


    The stylist couldn¡¯t help eximing. ¡°I have to say that you look like a natural noblewoman after


    dressing up.¡±


    Leaning against his Mercedes, Dexter smiled as he calmly watched Josie walk toward him.


    Josie stood in front of him and became nervous under his scrutinizing gaze. ¡°Do I look weird?¡±


    In fact, she was gorgeous, like a royal princess.


    Dexter reached out his hand and said, ¡°You¡¯re stunnin


    Josie held Dexter¡¯s hand and felt its roughness and warmth. With that, the couple entered the hotel.


    This was a grand asion. Josie knew she shouldn¡¯t mention the previous conflicts and that her task


    today. was not to embarrass the Russell family and Dexter.


    The upper ss nevercked handsome men and beautiful women. The guests invited to the banquet.


    were especially outstanding and influential.


    However, when Dexter and Josie entered the hall together, everyone else seemed to pale in


    comparison.


    Arnold, who was dressed in a ck suit, was standing in the hall greeting the guests.


    ¡°Hi, Arnold. Dexter led Josie and walked up to Arnold.


    When Arnold saw Josie, he spaced out briefly as he was reminded of the previous time he and Josie


    attended Zach¡¯s wedding. But now, Josie was attending his wedding.


    ¡°Wee.¡± Arnold had no desire to have a small talk with Dexter.


    It had been a while since Josiest met Arnold, and she wouldn¡¯t have thought the next time they met


    was at his wedding. She thought this might be a better choice for Arnold, which could be beneficial for


    his


    future.


    ¡°Hey, Dexter. Oh, this must be Mrs. Russell.¡± Just then, someone among the guests called out to


    Dexter.


    It was an elder. Dexter did not avoid him but politely greeted the person.


    Meanwhile, Josie and Arnold stood face-to-face with each other. Their gazes met for a moment before


    Josie asked, ¡°Do you regret it?¡±


    They were on opposing sides, yet she could understand his helplessness.


    Arnold smiled and cast a side nce at Decter. ¡°No regrets.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good¡± Josie took out an envelope from her handbag and ced it in the basket in front of


    Arnold.


    |||


    1/2


    The wedding gift was a thick pile of cash.


    Mark and udia greeted the guests in the hall while Laura apanied them solemnly. As such,


    many guests reckoned the rumors about Laura being abused were false.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Zach? Why isn¡¯t he here for such an important asion?¡± Someone asked.


    Before udia could say something, Laura answered, ¡°He¡¯s on a business trip and couldn¡¯t make it


    back in time. Sorry about that. Please allow me to give you a toast on his behalf.¡±


    Many deemed Laura¡¯s action solid evidence to refute the rumors.


    udia gave Laura a grateful look.


    Soon, the ceremony officially began..


    Rose petals were scattered on the thirty-foot red carpet. Summer wore a white rose bracelet and held


    at bouquet of flowers. As the background music yed a romantic wedding march, Mark walked


    Summer down the aisle toward Arnold, who was at the end of the red carpet, while the flower girls held


    Summer¡¯s wedding dress from behind.


    Countless shing cameras were being pointed at the bride.

 Chapter 570

    Chapter 570


    Chapter 570 The Ex-girlfriend


    Sitting next to Josie, Dexter asked softly, ¡°Do you like this kind of wedding?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Not really. It¡¯s too high-profile.¡±


    Dexter took note of it.


    As the bride¡¯s mother, udia gave a speech on the stage. She shed tears as she was delighted for


    her daughter to marry a good man. Her blessings for the couple were genuine.


    Everyone thought Arnold and Summer were a perfect match.


    Some guests discussed Josie among themselves. ¡°Is that woman Dexter Russell¡¯s wife? The one he


    announced at Summer¡¯s birthday party? Rumors say that she¡¯s average-looking, but her appearance is


    way beyond average.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s indeed beautiful. No wonder she managed to seduce Dexter to marry her.¡±


    ¡°Even Summer can¡¯t hold a candle to her¡­.¡±


    Josie had made Dexter proud and proved that they were the real couple.


    Dexter ced his hand around Josie¡¯s waist and whispered into her ear affectionately, ¡°Many men have


    their eyes glued to you, and I don¡¯t like that.¡±


    Later, Dexter introduced Josie to his business partners. I¡¯ve heard of you from Dexter several times.¡±


    Josie clinked sses with the other parties and said with a courteous smile.


    In fact, she had never heard of them.


    Dexter mischievously pinched Josie¡¯s waist. ¡°You¡¯re such a natural socializer. It seems like you can


    handle it on your own.¡±


    Josie nced around the surroundings and nodded. ¡°I should be fine. Go ahead and meet your other


    friends.¡±


    Summer¡¯s wedding was just another major socializing event.


    After Dexter left, several provocatively-dressed socialites approached Josie. ¡°Hi, Mrs. Russell. It has


    been a while.¡±


    Actually, they had never met Josie. Some of them were Dexter¡¯s admirers, but little did she expect an


    ordinary woman like Josie to end up bing Dexter¡¯s wife.


    They became more salty to see Josie in the spotlight.


    Staring at them, Josie tightened her grip on her clutch and straightened her back. ¡°Hi, how can I help


    you?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. We just want to know how it feels like to go from rags to riches. One of thedies spoke


    meanly, which made her appear far from a poised socialite.


    Josie took a sip of red wine and carried herself with pride like a true princess.


    ¡°I guess you might not know that the ugly duckling can be a swan only because it is a swan, to


    begin.


    1/2


    with.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Thedies were exasperated as they were at a loss for words to retort to Josie.


    A newly hired celebrity from the Carter Group was invited to y the piano at the wedding. Celebrities


    were indeed different; they had their unique charm.


    Suddenly, Laura appeared and grasped Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°How¡¯s everything?¡±


    The others were surprised by the interaction between Laura and Josie, not knowing that they were


    close.


    Josie looked at her and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you need to greet the guests?¡±


    ¡°Summer doesn¡¯t need me. Don¡¯t you think this event is more like apany opening ceremony?¡±


    Josieughed at Laura¡¯s sarcastic remark.


    Just then, she unintentionally made eye contact with udia. Thetter quickly averted her gaze,


    which disheartened Josie.


    Somemented discontentedly behind Josie¡¯s back. ¡°So what if she¡¯s Dexter¡¯s wife now? Dexter


    once ignored her feelings for Summer.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. They¡¯ll probably get divorced sooner orter. Dexter¡¯s wife is not an easy role to y.¡±


    Laura wasn¡¯t as tolerant as Josic. She shot a re at the gossipers and was about to rebuke them


    when the celebrity on the stage spoke into the microphone. ¡°Let¡¯s wish Mr. Carter and Ms. Olsen a


    blessed marriage!¡±


    Josie asked Laura softly, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Laura nced at the woman on the stage and chuckled. ¡°Her name is Xenia Watson, and she¡¯s


    Arnold¡¯s ex- girlfriend. She¡¯s not a kind woman. Just watch.¡±

 Chapter 571

    Chapter 571


    Chapter 571 Challenge epted


    Just as everyone thought Xenia would give Summer a hard time, the former walked confidently to Josie


    and dered, ¡°As many guests are aware, Mrs. Russell is here today, too, to bless the newlyweds. I


    heard. that Mrs. Russell is a Grade 8 pianist, and I¡¯ve always admired you. Hope we have the chance


    to witness your skills today.¡±


    Both Josie and Laura were startled. Obviously, Xenia had no good intentions and was provoking Josie!


    Everyone¡¯s gaze was focused on the elegant Josie.


    Arnold, who was greeting the guests, wanted to stand up for Josie but was subtly held back by


    Summer.


    Josie instinctively looked around for Dexter. He was standing diagonally across from her. When the


    warm light shed on the suit-d man¡¯s face, it entuated his dignified aura. Dexter raised his ss at


    Josie and didn¡¯t intend to help her out at that moment.


    He wanted to test how independent Josie could be.


    you, Ms.


    Josie looked at Xenia and replied with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s my honor to have the chance to y with Watson.


    However, we¡¯re here to celebrate the bride and groom today, so I think it¡¯s better not to steal the


    spotlight.¡±


    The guests fell silent when they heard Josie¡¯s wise response.


    Xenia sneered at Josie in a voice that was only audible to her. ¡°Mrs. Russell, are you intimidated? Don¡¯t


    tell me you don¡¯t know how to y the piano. Is Mr. Russell aware of it?¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression turned ghastly. ¡°Hey, watch your words!¡±


    Josie was finally stirred up. She could put up with Xenia¡¯s humiliation but couldn¡¯t allow her to implicate


    Dexter.


    Staring at Xenia with her guard up. Josie clenched her fist and said to Laura, ¡°I ept her challenge.¡±


    Suddenly, Xenia dered loudly, I¡¯m looking forward to your performance. Hope you don¡¯t mind it.


    Everyone, please enjoy!¡±


    Josie said with a stone face, ¡°After you, Ms. Watson.¡±


    Xenia was feeling smug for trapping Josie. As she walked toward the piano, she wondered if Josie


    actually knew how to y the piano. She merely wanted to embarrass Josie.


    Laura was anxious. ¡°Can you y the piano?¡±


    Josie gave Laura an assuring look.


    Xenia started ying The Blue Danube. During her debut, the agencypany arranged intensive


    sses for her to learn all sorts of skills, including piano. So, Xenia had not forgotten how to y, but


    her fingers.


    were stiff.


    Nheless, her posture was attractive. The crowd was soon mesmerized by her performance.


    Toward the end of the performance, the hall resounded with apuse. Truth be told, the guests


    acknowledged her confidence and beauty more than her piano skills.


    She bowed at Josie and said, ¡°It¡¯s your turn now.¡±


    ?


    1/2


    Xenia thought although she was not an excellent pianist, her skills were good enough to defeat Josie.


    She stood beside the piano, ready to witness Josie¡¯s embarrassment and to im her victory.


    In fact, it had been a while since Josie yed the piano. When she sat down and touched the keys, the


    memories and feelings came flooding back.


    She pressed a few keys and produced incoherent sounds, which caused the audience to boo her.


    ¡°She should just get off the stage and stop embarrassing herself¡­¡±


    ¡°Ha! I thought she was great.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Suddenly, her fingers started moving swiftly as she yed a piece. Her arms moved gracefully like a


    dancing swan.


    She was ying Rachmaninoff¡¯s Piano Concerto No.2. It was known as one of the most difficult piano.


    pieces, and many pianists found the piece challenging.

 Chapter 572

    Chapter 572


    Chapter 572 The Guy Who Taught Her Piano


    Everyone was bbergasted and was soon captivated by her exceptional performance. They were so


    immersed in it that they only regained theirposure after Josie finished ying the song.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Xenia stared at Josie in disbelief, knowing that she was utterly defeated in thispetition.


    Josiepletely outperformed Xenia with her excellent skills. Not only did she know how to y the


    piano, but she was also a piano virtuoso!


    On the other hand, Xenia felt like she had dug her own grave.


    Laura excitedly apuded first. ¡°Bravo!¡±


    With her prompt, the others joined in the apuse, some admiringly and others reluctantly.


    Standing in the corner, Dexter received many envious nces. The guests praised his wife but didn¡¯t


    notice the depression in his eyes. He never knew Josie could y the piano.


    Josie didn¡¯t leave the stage after ying the concerto. She gazed at Dexter¡¯s in a daze, and her eyes


    tinged with a faint sorrow.


    She subconsciously continued ying the piano. This time, the song she yed was F¨¹r Elise.


    She had learned the piano at school. In a past rtionship, some mocked her like Xenia and


    commented that she was not in the man¡¯s league because she couldn¡¯t even y the piano. She was


    angry and felt inferior. The man brought her to the music room and promised arrogantly, ¡°It¡¯s no big


    deal. I¡¯ll teach you.. Others don¡¯t deserve to have me as their teacher.¡±


    Josie chuckled and said worriedly, ¡°But I have zero basics.¡±


    The guy wasn¡¯t bothered by it. He held Josie¡¯s hands to press the keys. He taught her to recognize the


    notes, y songs, and polish her skills.


    As such, Josie patiently learned many songs throughout her university life. She was his only student.


    ¨C


    Just then, the music stopped abruptly. Xenia had secretly unplugged the power she couldn¡¯t allow Josie


    to continue ying, or she would be theughingstock of the city tomorrow!


    Josie stopped her movements and opened her eyes, feeling lost as she was jolted back to reality.


    Out of the blue, Dexter appeared behind Josic, took her hand, and led her to his side to signify his


    protection over her.


    ¡°Dex?¡±


    Dexter smiled at her and squeezed her hand assuringly. ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you, honey.¡±


    Xenia¡¯s face turned pale as she was intimidated by Dexter¡¯s cold aura. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Russell. I have


    been abrupt¡­¡± She apologized.


    Dexter disregarded her apology and rebuked impatiently, ¡°My wife¡¯s time is precious and not something


    just anyone can upy.¡±


    Xenia was utterly embarrassed today, yet she couldn¡¯t say anything. How she wished she could vanish


    into


    thin air.


    1/2


    ¡°Ms. Watson, if you want topete next time, it would be better topete against your fellow


    entertainers.¡± Dexter, being who he was, made a harsh remark indicating that Xenia was way out of her


    league.


    ¡°Y-Yes, sir.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes and warned, ¡°A wise person wouldn¡¯t cross the line. You¡¯re the Carter


    Group¡¯s spokesperson. Didn¡¯t your agencypany instruct you to maintain your image? Otherwise,


    the consequences can be dire.¡±


    Xenia¡¯s face reddened in shame. She felt so abashed that she was on the verge of tears. ¡°Yes¡­ You¡¯re


    right.¡±


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and left the stage. ¡°Good job. You¡¯re getting better at carrying yourself as Mrs.


    Russell. Hemented nonchntly..

 Chapter 573

    Chapter 573


    Chapter 573 Hold Tight


    Dexter¡¯s gentleness made Josie regret remembering someone whom she shouldn¡¯t. She cracked a


    smile. ¡°I hope I didn¡¯t disgrace you.¡±


    Dexter replied with a smile, ¡°Not at all. When did you learn the piano?¡±


    ¡°When I was in uni.¡± Josie thought about it and answered honestly.


    She could feel Dexter¡¯s hand stiffen momentarily.


    ¡°You¡¯re pretty good at it.¡±


    Meanwhile, the guests who attended the wedding realized how absurd the rumors were. How would a


    loving couple like Dexter and Josie possibly get divorced?


    ¡°I¡¯m tired.¡± Josie mumbled.


    Her face was pale. Dexter carried her to the lounge, which was a quiet space. ¡°I still need to talk to


    some people. Rest here first. We¡¯ll go home togetherter.¡±


    Josie nodded. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll wait for you.


    Dexter kissed her on her forehead before striding back to the hall that was filled with materialistic


    people. Everyone was socializing with the intention to garner benefits.


    Josie sat obediently in the lounge. There were only servers passing by with food and drinks.


    The servers, too, had witnessed Josie outshining Xenia just now and admired her boldness and dignity.


    A server approached her and asked, ¡°Mrs. Russell, would you like to have some drinks?¡±


    Josie was thirsty, so she thought about it and said, ¡°Can I have some orange juice, please? Thank


    you.¡±


    Just as the server was about to pass a ss of orange juice to Josie, a fair hand intercepted and took


    over the ss to pass it to Josie.


    Surprised, Josie lifted her head to see a familiar face. ¡°Summer?¡±


    Dressed in a white gown, Summer stood arrogantly before Josie.


    The observant server sensed something was off and quickly left.


    Holding the ss of juice, Summer uttered, ¡°You¡¯ve gained all the spotlights in my wedding, Mrs.


    Russell.¡±


    She had seen howposed Josie was and knew she could never be as elegant as her. Even udia


    was impressed by Josie¡¯s poise, which made Summer even more annoyed..


    She would be in deep waters if Josie returned to the Olsen family.


    Josie adjusted her shawl alertly and asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do? You¡¯re so capable; there¡¯s nothing I can do to you.¡± Summer sat down beside


    Josie and said saltily, ¡°Besides, I¡¯m well aware that there¡¯s no chance between Dexter and me.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t intend to act before Summer. ¡°I¡¯m d you know.¡±


    |||


    OContent rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    1/2


    ¡°However, it doesn¡¯t mean that others don¡¯t stand a chance. You better hold tight to the identity and


    don¡¯t be dragged down.¡±


    Josie was not interested in entertaining Summer but silently clenched her fists.


    ¡°You should worry for yourself if you¡¯re so free. Oh well. Arnold¡¯s parents are no longer around, so you


    don¡¯t have to deal with the elders. But he has plenty of women out there. Are you able to secure him?¡±


    Josie smirked. ¡°Even the public knows he loves you. But if he really does, why is he involved in so


    many scandals during this period?¡±


    Josie¡¯sment hit the bull¡¯s-eye. Summer tightened her grip on the ss. Indeed, Arnold was a


    ladies¡¯ man. Xenia didn¡¯t mess with her but went after Summer; this proved she knew who Arnold truly


    cared.


    for.


    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Josie took the ss of juice from Summer and said, ¡°My matter is none of your business too.¡±


    Summer stood up with a grin. ¡°From now on, I¡¯m Mrs. Carter. We¡¯ll inevitably meet on various


    asions, and I look forward to it, Mrs. Russell.¡±

 Chapter 574

    Chapter 574


    Chapter 574 She Left First


    After Summer left, Josie continued sitting in the lounge for quite a while. It was her third time in the


    Olsen Group¡¯s hotel, but she had never carefully observed the furnishings here.


    The furnishings of the hotel were luxurious but not extravagant. Its elegant style corresponded to


    udia¡¯s taste.


    Mark must love her a lot. If Liana were still around, maybe she wouldn¡¯t have to stay in the monastery


    and iste herself from the outside world.


    At this thought, Josie smiled ruefully.


    She wanted to go and find Laura but identally sprained her ankle when she stood up. Her heels


    broke, which left her in an inconvenient state. She looked around the lounge in exasperation, but there


    was no one she could seek help from.


    Just then, udia walked into the lounge, surrounded by a few otherdies. She lifted her eyes and


    noticed the helpless girl, who lookedpletely different from her confident self just now.


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen, she¡¯s¡­¡± Herpanion asked when they saw her gazing at Josie hesitantly.


    ¡°Nothing. Go ahead. I¡¯lleter.¡± udia sent herpanions away and walked up to Josie. ¡°What


    Happened?¡±


    Josie was startled when she heard the voice and became nervous to see udia. ¡°I¡­¡±


    udia was observant and quickly noticed her broken high heels. ¡°Wait for me here.¡±


    Josie was upset as she watched udia walk away. Although udia was Summer¡¯s mother, their


    personalities werepletely different. Josie felt apologetic toward udia for disrupting her


    daughter¡¯s major asions repeatedly.


    Not long after udia left, Josie¡¯s phone vibrated. She was relieved, thinking Dexter had texted. To her


    shock, it was a message consisting of a picture. In the picture, a man dressed in home wear was


    pressing. his body against a woman on the bed. He ced one hand on the woman¡¯s chest while


    kissing her neck.


    It was obviously a couple who were madly in love. The man¡¯s side profile could be seen clearly.


    Instantly, Josie¡¯s feet felt like jelly. She tightened her grip on the phone. The man in the picture was so


    familiar that she could recognize him at one nce.


    Gulping, she erged the picture to confirm her perception. There were no traces of the picture being


    digitally edited; the two people in the picture looked natural.


    The ID which sent the message was one from Wavery. Josie called the number immediately, but no


    one answered.


    ¨C Just then, Laura came down from upstairs with a coat over her shoulder. She walked up to Josie and


    said,


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving now. Come with me.¡±


    Josie was still standing in a daze at the spot.


    ¡°Hey, Josie. Are you okay?¡± Laura waved at Josie. Only then did Josie regain herposure. ¡°What is


    it?¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯m leaving. Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    O


    1/2


    Josie unlocked her phone screen and mumbled, ¡°I-I¡¯m waiting for Dexter.¡±


    ¡°The men are busy socializing, and it won¡¯t end that soon. Why don¡¯t youe with me to check out


    the house?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Josie was filled withplicated emotions. She felt light-headed and wished to leave the ce


    as soon as possible.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Oh, your heels are broken.¡± Laura exchanged her shoes with Josie before the two left the hotel


    together.


    By the time udia rushed back to the ce after asking for a pair of sandals from the server, Josie


    was nowhere to be seen.


    Dejected, udia noticed the heels Josie left on the floor. She instructed the server to keep them away


    and wrote down an address, ¡°Get them fixed and send them to this address.¡±

 Chapter 575

    Chapter 575


    Chapter 575 Morgan¡¯s Back


    Seated in the car, Josie examined the picture scrupulously one more time.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    It seemed like a digitally-enhanced screenshot from a surveince camera.


    She drew two conclusions after she was done with her examination ¨C the picture was real, and there


    was video evidence as well; the sender eagerly wanted to show her the person in the picture.


    ¡°Did something happen? You don¡¯t seem like yourself today.¡± Laura frowned at her after noticing her


    preupation.


    Josie locked her phone instinctively. ¡°Everything¡¯s fine


    After a while, she asked, ¡°Laura, what would you do if someone used facts to drive a wedge between


    you and your rtions?¡±


    It was a ratherplicated question. Laura gave the matter a thought before replying, ¡°It depends on


    what the facts are. If it¡¯s something severe, the rtionship is bound to break apart anyway


    Is it severe enough? Josie wondered internally. She wanted to trust Dexter. ¡°Hmm¡­ It¡¯s kinda severe, I


    suppose.¡±


    Laura snorted outughing. ¡°What¡¯s going on? If it¡¯s severe, there¡¯s no other way around it. ¡®Kinda¡¯


    doesn¡¯t really mean anything. Oh, we are almost there.¡±


    The car turned into a fancy neighborhood. After arriving, Laura brought Josie to the thirtieth floor of the


    building.


    The apartmentplex was Waterfront Heights, a high-end one, but Josie was so deep in her


    thoughts. that she didn¡¯t notice anything around her. She hastily put on a jacket to cover her bare skin


    only when she suddenly remembered the meeting.


    ¡°How¡¯s the psychiatrist like?¡±


    Laura shed a cryptic smile. ¡°He¡¯s very¡­ good-looking.¡±


    Josie arched her eyebrows.


    The doctor was already waiting for them in the apartment. The door was unlocked, so they could enter


    the ce on their own.


    This was one of therger units of theplex that had a wide panorama over the city. The apartment


    looked minimalistic, revealing the aesthetic taste of the owner.


    Looking around her, Laura liked the vibes of the apartment. ¡°Dr. Morgan, it must be hard to find such a


    great apartment in the heart of the city.¡±


    The orange rays of the sunset poured through the French window, enveloping the man in a warm glow.


    He stood with his back facing them, ying around with a metal contraption that reflected some of the


    light.


    Josie narrowed her eyes ¨C it was a lighter.


    He wore a white shirt with a gray cardigan, making him look tall and sturdy. Judging from his physique


    and aura, one would hardly think he was a psychiatrist.


    When he heard their entrance, he turned around and looked straight at Josie with dark eyes that


    seemed to have the power to lure one into his world.


    When Josie made out who he actually was, she froze.


    ¡°Of course, he replied in a deep voice.


    Laura quickly nudged Josie, who was still shocked. ¡°This is my best friend, Josie. I¡¯m so thankful that


    she¡¯s been taking care of metely. Josic, this is Dr. Morgan, whom I always talk to you about.¡±


    It was none other than Morgan Bastille.


    The precision of his reply surprised Laura.


    While carefully observing Josie¡¯s reaction, he stretched his hand toward her calmly, not betraying any


    hints of surprise at Josie¡¯s sudden arrival.


    ¡°Hi¡±


    Though countless different emotions were raging within her, she shook his hand. ¡°Hi¡­¡±.


    He gave her a squeeze just as she was about to retract her hand. Startled, she met his dark gaze and


    seemed entrapped by his eyes.


    Morgan smiled and let go. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about you from Matthew countless times. Now that we¡¯ve finally


    met cach other in person, I must admit that you¡¯re one of a kind indeed.¡±


    ¡°Oh, not at all, she denied almost instantly. ¡°When did you return?¡±


    Laura was about to reply, but Morgan beat her to it. ¡°Ten weeks ago.¡±

 Chapter 576

    Chapter 576


    Chapter 576 His Old me


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Morgan had been a man of few words. Just as Laura was about to say something, she received a call


    from work.


    ¡°Josic, carry on the chat with Dr. Morgan,¡± Laura said, then she went to a corner to ept the call.


    Josie nodded and pinched the hem of her shirt subconsciously. It was a sign that she was nervous, and


    this habit hadn¡¯t changed after all those years.


    Morgan opened a bottle of water before passing it to Josie. ¡°You dressed up quite formally today,


    looking very different from how I remembered.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath, but she didn¡¯t ept the water. Finally, she plucked up enough courage to


    look at him. ¡°Morgan.¡±


    ¡°Well, you still remember me. He smiled.


    Of course. You were there in all my memories when I was younger.


    ¡°I recalled you studied financial management, not psychiatry.¡± Hence, she had no clue that Laura¡¯s


    psychiatrist was him.


    -1 studied this field after going abroad. It seems to be going quite well.¡± With that, he forced the bottle


    of


    water into her hands. ¡°But it¡¯s a surprise that Matthew is your friend.¡±


    ¡°Morgan, I¡¯m married,¡± she suddenly blurted.


    He froze for a moment before quickly retorting, ¡°I know.¡±


    He¡¯s been speaking with Laura. He probably knows a lot about me.


    ¡°But I also know that¡­¡± He suddenly scooted closer and spoke into her ears. ¡°He hasn¡¯t been treating


    you well.¡±


    His words were like a catalyst that triggered all her emotions about the topic. She shoved him away


    and replied. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Right at that moment, Laura turned around after finishing her call. To her, both of them seemed like


    they knew each other beforehand and held grudges.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± She walked to them.


    Josie stared at Morgan with conflicted emotions. ¡°Laura, I have to leave first. I forgot that I have


    something up.¡±


    With that, she hurried away.


    Laura was at a loss regarding what had just transpired. She looked at Morgan, who gestured


    gentlemanly.


    ¡°Go after her.¡±


    Josie had gotten quite far. She heaved breathlessly, almost unable to ept Morgan¡¯s return. After so


    many years, I thought he would nevere back here¡­..


    Memories of their rtionship came flooding back like a torrent, as though it was a dream.


    In her first year in university, she was a local in Wavery, while all her roommates were from other cities.


    The difference in their habits made it difficult to mingle with them, so Josie mostly spent most of her


    time alone, focusing on her studies.


    Her first encounter with Morgan was in a convenience store. That day, she lost track of time while


    studying in the library until it was way past curfew in her dorm. She found a twenty-four-hour


    convenience store and bought food as she looked at the hazy moon in the sky.


    Evente at night, Waverly was a busy city. Sports cars raced after one another, owned by the


    mboyant young men locally. Even their car tes were extravagant.


    Josie had one of her hands in the pocket of her denim dress as she smoked a cigarette, thinking about


    how to wake up the dorm master to get back into the dorm.


    It was at that moment Morgan appeared.


    An ostentatious car pulled to a stop before her, with a driver even more shy than the car. His


    bewitching eyes stared straight into hers, but the smile on his face made him seem harmless.


    What a good-looking man.


    ¡°Hey, love.¡± He arched his eyebrow as he spoke in a thick British ent.


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    With another smile, he passed some money to her. ¡°Can you grab a pack of cigarettes for me?¡±

 Chapter 577

    Chapter 577


    Chapter 577 Priceless Treasure


    Josic managed to catch his words, but she froze when she saw his bandaged left leg. Ah, so he¡¯s


    injured.


    Even though there was a woman next to him, she was on her phone, ignoring thempletely.


    ¡°What brand?¡±


    ¡°Anything.¡±


    Josie finally decided to take a pack of Marlboro and handled him the change, as well as the cigarettes.


    As she came closer, he got a good look at her. She had bright, clear eyes and the naivety of a young


    girl with a slight fragrance.


    Looking at the cigarette, he joked, ¡°Do you want to have supper together?¡±


    She didn¡¯t catch his words. Admittedly, it was quite a challenge for a local in Wavery to understand the


    thick ent.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Looking at her confused expression, Morgan repeated himself patiently.


    When she finally understood his question, she looked at the other woman, who didn¡¯t show any


    reaction and shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡±


    After rejecting him, she took the books on the bench and disappeared into the night.


    The other woman finally put her phone down and smiled at Morgan. ¡°You¡¯re not appealing enough for


    her.¡±


    ¡°Some people simply have no taste.¡±


    After that encounter, Josie deliberately walked past that convenience store for a while. Perhaps he left


    a deep impression on her at that young age. However, he never appeared, just like any other stranger.


    The next time they met was inte spring when the cherry blossoms bloomed. Josie¡¯s friend joined a


    volunteering club and dragged her along.


    At that moment, Morgan was already in his final year. While his peers were busy revising for the finals,


    he had already achieved impressive results. He even became the private pupil of a famous professor.


    He had always been a carefree person, marching to the beat of his own drum. In high school, he was


    already a frequent customer of the pubs, going to bed only when dawn was about to break. Since


    university offered even more freedom, he would make full use of it.


    Hence, his name was well-known, but most people hadn¡¯t met him.


    When Josie opened the bus door, he was introducing himself cavalierly at the back.


    People were already excited when they heard his name.


    Nevertheless, the sound of the door opening when Josie entered still caught his eyes.


    As he paused and looked at her, the group followed suit.


    It was a small bus, so not many people were on board. When Josie met his gaze, her heart skipped a


    beat.


    His face stood out in the crown, but the unexpectedness of meeting him there had caught her off guard,


    temporarily freezing her on the spot.


    On the other hand, Morgan¡¯s eyes lit up as though he had found a treasure. After a while, he retracted


    his gaze and continued the conversation nonchntly.


    Josie heaved a long sigh and found a window seat.


    The bus started moving, and everyone started focusing on something else.


    As the bus left the hustle of the city, the scenery became more beautiful as they moved south. Josie


    was quietly taking pictures with her camera.


    Suddenly, someone plopped down next to her with a huge force. Shocked, she turned around and


    found herself face-to-face with the haughty man with a face many would die for.

 Chapter 578

    Chapter 578


    Chapter 578 Will You Be My Girlfriend?


    She froze. ¡°You-¡±


    Morgan didn¡¯t give her any chance to reject him. ¡°Let me have a look.¡±


    It wasmon knowledge that Morgan was a proud character. Many wouldn¡¯t let the opportunity to be


    taught by him pass.


    Josie frowned, but her question was unrted to the topic. ¡°You know how to speak in our local


    ent?¡±


    Morganughed. ¡°My mom is from Wavery herself. I think I have a pretty good grasp of it.¡±


    That¡¯s true. He sounds natural, just like a native.


    Josie red at him, a flush coloring her puffed cheeks. ¡°You lied to me.¡±


    ¡°Oooh, someone remembered me. What an honor,¡± he teased.


    She didn¡¯t reply to him after that.


    When they arrived at the destination, her palms were sweaty, as though she had just been through an


    ordeal.


    Morgan¡¯s leg was already healed. He was just wearing a in white tee that day. As he yawned and


    stretched, sunlight glistened on his ck hair. Even from afar, he looked mesmerizing.


    Josie gathered her courage and red at him in annoyance.


    Unfortunately, he turned around and met with her fierce re. Both of them froze.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Even if the earth somehow formed a huge crevice, she would be too embarrassed to jump into i


    Just like that, she spent a week with him, not knowing how they ended up spending so much ti


    together.


    They were at Willowbrook Valley, an underdeveloped region living in poverty. They were helping an


    elementary school located halfway through the valley. The kids there would have to walk several miles


    in the dark just to go to a school that was severelycking in resources. The cement of the walls had


    fallen off over the years, making it look like a dpidated building.


    However, when Morgan was teaching the eager students in the small ssroom, he seemed to shine


    brightly in Josie¡¯s eyes.


    He had been around the world with his cousin and was quite knowledgeable. His stories enthralled the


    students.


    His usual mboyance had disappeared from his gentle voice when he was focused on teaching. He


    seemed like a different person to her.


    Still, the habits of being a sheltered, rich kid remained he was not used to the food there. Fortunately,


    Josie thought of different recipes to improve it, putting a lot more effort into Morgan¡¯s mealpared to


    the rest.


    After ruminating for a long time, she finally asked, ¡°Do you think they will look at our suggestions in the


    report?¡±


    Morgan lowered his head to look at her. Through the leaves, glimmers of sunlight fell on her face. He


    could even see the tiny fuzz on her face if he moved closer.


    His heart skipped a beat, but he kept aposed demeanor.


    ¡°Go ahead and write it. I¡¯ll help you with the rest.¡±


    ¡°For real?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    The sun slowly disappeared on the horizon, leaving shades of golden and pink in the blue sky. It was


    beautiful.


    Looking at Morgan in in clothes, Josie¡¯s thoughts wandered away.


    ¨C


    After they went back to the university, Morgan carried out his promise this was the first time he treated.


    something so seriously. They wrote their suggestions in a report and started a charity donation that


    received great feedback.


    It was not easy arranging all that, and to Morgan, it was not worth putting in the effort and time. Still, he


    did everything perfectly.


    __¡±Josie, I¡¯m not a patient person; I¡¯m quick-tempered, and I admit I¡¯m pretty awful. There probably


    won¡¯t be a lot of change in me. Even so, would you agree to be my girlfriend?¡± At a party celebrating


    their sess, he whispered the question in her ears as he hugged her tightly.

 Chapter 579

    Chapter 579


    Josie agreed without having any idea what love meant.


    Morgan came from a wealthy family.


    He took her on a helicopter, flying through mountain ranges. She could see the vast blue sky with


    white, fluffy clouds from the windows. As she looked down, she felt insignificantpared to the vast


    beauty of


    Mother Nature before her.


    He also brought her to a hilltop in London that provided a bird¡¯s eye view of the bustling city. The


    breeze that blew past brought the fragrance of the flowers.


    He even brought her out to the sea. She remembered the star-filled night sky that looked like a gxy.


    As they gazed starry-eyed at the night sky while the boat swayed calmly, fish would sometimes leap


    into the boat, scaring Josie.


    Morgan gave Josie the experiences she never had. But when she talked to others about him, she


    always said with a smile that he had been haughty and arrogant, behaving as though the entire world


    owed. something to him when he got mad. Nevertheless, he treated her very well.


    There were times he pulled an all-nighter to write assignments with her. She still remembered how he


    broke his leg on a skiing trip, how he tried to cheer her up when they had arguments, how he socialized


    seamlessly in important dinners regarding his future, how he pranked others, and how mean he could


    be


    when he mocked her.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Just like that, they spent two uneventful years together.


    Like everyone else, they had fights, but they pulled through it. Some were envious of them, some


    jealous, and some waiting to get a goodugh at Josie. At that time, Josie was still unaware that there


    could be a lot of possibilities in life. By the time she realized it, Morgan¡¯s temper started getting worse.


    When her father visited her, she waspletely unprepared for his arrival. She quickly left her lecture


    and called Morgan into the washroom to pick her father up. Heined, but he still agreed after a


    few seconds of silence.


    Josie thought that he had some hidden concerns.


    Morgan did as he was told and arranged everything. When Josie arrived at the hotel, she heard him.


    exining the restaurants and the food around them. Though he was polite and respectful, Josie


    frowned when she heard that; it didn¡¯t sound like him at all.


    When he saw her, he whispered in her ears, ¡°Just at the right time. I¡¯ve got something up, so I have to


    go first.¡±


    She nodded.


    Paul stayed for three days. Josie didn¡¯t contact Morgan during that period, and he never appeared.


    However, there were rumors about Josie forcing him to meet her parents.


    Before Paul left, he advised, ¡°Sure, that kid is polite, but you don¡¯t belong in his world.¡±


    Everyone else thought she was not good enough for him.


    After a while, Morgan came to pick her up from her sses and brought her to parties as usual, as


    though


    happened.


    However, he had always been quick-tempered. On top of that, he didn¡¯t like to be restricted. Because of


    his family, he could basically do anything he wanted. On the other hand, Josie could not afford to be as


    whimsical as him. When a fight started between them, it was like a war.


    Josie had her pride as well. She left him in front of all his friends, running away as she texted, I¡¯m not


    good for you. This Cindere doesn¡¯t suit your highness.


    When Morgan saw the text, he threw the phone into the pool. Meanwhile, his friends exchanged


    nces. with each other, not daring to say a word.


    Josie was not far away. She could hear the voices of his friends, but Morgan never looked for her.

 Chapter 580

    Chapter 580


    Chapter 580 Still a yboy


    She still remembered how strong the winds were that night. She trembled in the dress he bought her,


    holding her arms together as she held back a sob.


    She remembered the helplessness when she walked back, as though every step she took was


    trampling on her pride. She remembered convincing herself that he was different and that she should


    be more understanding.


    However, on her way back, she saw him kissing another woman. To be precise, it was his famous ex-


    girlfriend that was sitting next to him in the car on the day Josie had first met him.


    Josie started shaking as she looked at them stonily. Suddenly, she recalled someone telling her,


    ¡°Believe it or not, you will not end up with Morgan.¡±


    And that prediction hade true.


    Someone saw her and poked Morgan, who threw a fierce re, annoyed they were disrupting him from


    his sensual diversion. However, he paled when he saw Josie with that woman still in his arms.


    After that, he started hooking up with various women and went to pubs all night without giving a damn


    about Josie. He seemed to have returned to his days before he met her, spending money as though


    nothing mattered-the most valuable thing to him was money.


    That was the night theyst saw each other.


    When his ex-girlfriend visited Josie, she was in a hospital with an intravenous drip to cool down her


    temperature.


    ¡°What happened?¡± the ex-girlfriend asked in shock, but Josie did not reply.


    Then, her red lips moved again, more rude this time. ¡°Where¡¯s Morgan?¡±


    Josie still didn¡¯t give any reply.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t he tell you?¡± Understanding now dawned on the ex-girlfriend¡¯s face.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t tell you. He will be mad at me.¡± Sheughed. ¡°After all, it¡¯s not something to be proud of.¡±


    Josie replied calmly, ¡°Exin.¡±


    When Josie first met Morgan at the convenience store, the conversation that ensued in the car went


    something like this.


    ¡°You¡¯re not appealing enough for her.¡±


    ¡°Some people simply have no taste,¡± Morgan scoffed.


    ¡°Tsk! Weren¡¯t you checking her out just now?¡±


    ¡°Jealous?¡±


    ¡°What for?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you up for her.¡±


    ¡°Youngdy,¡± the ex-girlfriend spoke, looking at Josie¡¯s pale face with a simrly bewitching eye ast


    Morgan¡¯s. ¡°Perhaps you didn¡¯t know that Morgan¡¯s dad died in a car ident before his wedding. It¡¯s all


    because of him that his mother steadied her footing in the family. He¡¯s the pride of the family. Perhaps


    hist family allowed him to fool around at this time, but he is bound to inherit the business. Of course, I


    won¡¯t give him to you.¡±


    Josie let out a cold snort. The pain that shot through her heart sent tears streaming down her face.


    She finally understood that what she thought was true love had always been a lie. From the beginning,


    she had been a fool all along.


    Morgan was not a simpleton. He was great at ying around with people¡¯s emotions. Just like a cat in


    the dark, he could hide his true selfpletely. As long as he wanted to, he could make any girl fall for


    him. while he would never invest any true feelings in the rtionship.


    I should have known who he was from the beginning.


    The ex-girlfriend didn¡¯t push her any further. She patted Josie¡¯s shoulders and left.


    The girls toyed by Morgan could fill up an entire truck, and Josie was merely one of them. Yes, that¡¯s


    just who Morgan is. He¡¯s not going to stay faithful to one person, and he won¡¯t spend the rest of his life


    peacefully with just a woman.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 581

    Chapter 581


    Chapter 581 Gone Missing


    Josie returned to the world she belonged to. She continued to study hard and spent the rest of her


    time. doing part-time jobs, not fitting into any social groups at all.


    She never saw Morgan since then; he disappeared from her life as though he had never existed.


    Hence, she never thought he would return.


    The past memories came flooding back to her as she walked on the empty sidewalk. Everything


    seemed like a distant dream.


    Laura drove to her and sted the car horn loudly. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    She returned to her senses and lifted her head nkly. ¡°Laura¡­¡±


    ¡°I have no clue what happened. I just hope you¡¯re happy.¡± she said as Josie got into the car.


    Josie looked at her gratefully. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m just slightly bothered by some insignificant matters.¡±


    While speaking, she replied to the anonymous number. What do you want?¡±


    But she received no reply.


    Seeing that Josie had no intentions of disclosing the troubling matters upying her mind, Laura


    chirped cheerfully, ¡°Let¡¯s go have some fun!¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    She brought Josie to a club with music sting so loudly that Josie thought she was going to be deaf.


    ¡°I¡¯m not supposed toe here-Dexter doesn¡¯t like it. Let¡¯s change a spot!¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Her soft voice was engulfed by the noisy surroundings.


    Laura held her hand tightly as she led the way to a private VIP room.


    ¡°You¡¯re finally here, Laura!¡±


    ¡°Who is this prettydy?¡±


    Laura introduced proudly, ¡°She¡¯s my best friend, Josie. I won¡¯t allow any of you to have your eyes on


    her! Josie, these are my friends.¡±


    Josie met their gazes anxiously. She hadn¡¯t adapted to the sudden switch from a luxurious wedding to


    the


    club.


    ¡°Hi, guys!¡±


    ¡°Hi


    Someone tried to flirt with her, but Laura replied, ¡°I know what you¡¯re thinking-she¡¯s married to an


    important figure. If you know who he is, you will be so shocked.¡±


    Then, she turned to Josie and said soothingly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will send you hometer; nothing bad will


    happen. I¡¯ve been staying still for so many days, so I¡¯m going to have my share of funter!¡±


    She went on stage as though she owned the ce and started partying with the DJ.


    The people around them were dressed in the minimal possible amount of clothing.


    Josie could feel her heart beating to the rhythm of the loud music. How could Laura stand this? I¡¯m


    impressed.


    She kept ncing at the time, but she eventually got used to the noise thrumming through her ears.


    Not wanting to ruin Laura¡¯s fun, she sat in a corner and fell asleep.


    Unbeknownst to her, Dexter¡¯s face was as dark as night when he couldn¡¯t find her.


    ¡°Where¡¯s she?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps Mrs. Russell got bored and¡­ went back first.


    Something felt off to Dexter. He quickly drove back to Mason Garden.


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    When the maids heard his call, they asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Isn¡¯t Mrs. Russell with you? She¡¯s not


    home.¡±


    The shadows looming behind Dexter¡¯s figure seemed to grow bigger.


    ¡°Check the surveince cameras around here and the hotel. I want to know where she is in half an


    hour!¡± hemanded.


    We have to keep this down. Otherwise, everyone will know I lost my wife tomorrow.


    The empty void in his heart suddenly seemed bigger than usual, threatening to swallow him whole.


    Fear gripped his whole body as he recalled how she disappeared two months ago, abandoning him.


    He covered his face with his hands to hide the panic on his face as pain shot through him.


    The phone on the table showed all the calls that didn¡¯t go through.

 Chapter 582

    Chapter 582


    Chapter 582 Home


    ¡°We found her¡­ Mrs. Russell took Laura¡¯s car and visited an apartment. Then, they went to a club¡­¡±


    Larry reported.


    Dexter immediately raised his head sharply.


    Arnold¡¯s club was well-known to upper-ss society.


    The men and women who frequented the club were incredibly good-looking.


    As soon as the club manager heard Dexter¡¯s arrival, he immediately weed him nervously.


    With Dexter¡¯s influence, the music came to aplete stop. Unrted people were directed by the


    staff to exit the ce. The club was immediately transformed into anothermonce.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on today? Do we have a security check? But it¡¯s still so early!¡± someoneined.


    Laura was also surprised by the sudden halt. The moment she stood on tiptoe and saw the situation,


    she froze. Oh, right! Apart from Dexter, who else has the power to shut this ce down?


    With a group of staffers apanying him, he walked toward her with the will of wanting to burn the


    ce down.


    Laura¡¯s jaw dropped as she processed the situation. I¡¯m doomed.¡±


    Right after that, Dexter strode over briskly and spoke through gritted teeth, a sh of anger flittering his


    eyes. ¡°Laura, where did you bring Josie to?¡±


    Laura quickly stood aside. ¡°S-She¡¯s here.¡±


    Everyone looked behind her and saw Josie fast asleep in a chair, looking like a gentle, harmless soul.


    There was a jacket on her, probably given by some men, worried she might catch a cold.


    The moment Dexter saw the jacket, his temper red up.


    ¡°Josie, it¡¯s dawn.¡± He walked forward and nudged her.


    Josie was not in a deep sleep yet, so she opened her eyes groggily. When she saw Dexter, she


    thought she was hallucinating.


    However, the fierce expression behind his eyes showed that this was reality.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± She stood up and rubbed her eyes innocently.


    Dexter¡¯s anger almost shot through the roof. He took her hands harshly as he mocked, ¡°ying hide-


    and- seek, eh?¡±


    Laura furtively made some signs to Josie behind his back.


    She looked around her and immediately understood the situation. ¡°We¡¯vee to the wrong ce. We


    wanted to go to a cafe with the same name. Come on, let¡¯s go home now.¡±


    It was such a terrible excuse that no one bothered to expose her.


    Dexter looked at her intently. Not wanting to further disgrace themselves, he swept her in his arms and


    walked out of the club.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    When the manager saw that, his legs almost gave way weakly.


    What the hell is Mrs. Russell thinking? Does she have a grudge against us and decide to use Mr.


    Russell to ruin our ce?


    Laura sped her hands together. ¡°Josie, it¡¯s all my fault¡­¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Then, she turned around and bellowed, ¡°Which of you gave her the jacket just now?¡±


    On the other hand, Dexter threw Josie into the car and drove even faster than Laura.


    Josie tried to suppress the difort in her stomach as she pleaded, ¡°Don¡¯t be mad.¡±


    With a veil of darkness on his face, he ignored her and pressed harder on the eleration pedal.


    ¡°Dexter, I don¡¯t feel well,¡± she said calmly.


    Dexter turned to her after parking the car in Mason Garden. Frowning, he asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you know


    before leaving with Laura?¡±


    let me


    To Josie, he resembled the man in the picture, especially at that moment with the dark surroundings.

 Chapter 583

    Chapter 583


    Chapter 583 Are You Hiding Anything?


    Annoyance suddenly flooded her when she heard that. ¡°Isn¡¯t it my freedom to go wherever I want?¡±


    Dexter frowned in worry. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±


    Josie got out of the car and went to the bathroom directly to take a cold shower.


    On the other side of Wavery, Xenia¡¯s manager reported to her.


    ¡°The Carter Group has decided to terminate the contract¡­¡± she reported nervously.


    All the contracts andmissions rted to Xenia had been dissolved, including the shows that had


    confirmed her participation-the film set found a substitute for her.


    Since she no longer had any work, she stayed at home and drank.


    ¡°Good for you, Arnold, to be able to control everything to this extent, she muttered drunkenly.


    She had been the star of the industry. After making a name for herself, she had never been so


    humiliated. It was not great to be plunged into the abyss from the clouds.


    Everything she had was given by Arnold. She had been docile, epting of every request, and never


    asked for anything outrageous. Hence, she stayed with him for a long time.


    She couldn¡¯t even remember the day he suddenly asked for a breakup.


    Xenia thought it was because of Summer, but an unfamiliar face appeared next to Arnold frequently.


    Once, when Josie fell asleep, Xenia had witnessed how Arnold wanted to caress her hair, yet he


    hesitated. He treated her as though she was the rarest treasure in the world.


    Hence, when everyone thought he fell for Summer, Xenia knew it was Josie all along.


    She gritted her teeth when she recalled the embarrassment at Summer¡¯s wedding. She didn¡¯t seem


    like at celebrity at all.


    ¡°What does she deserve?¡± She clenched the wine ss.!


    ¡°Xenia, stop thinking about provoking Josie. Let alone Arnold; we can¡¯t afford to make Dexter our


    enemy


    ¡°Can¡¯t afford? I doubt that.¡± She arched her eyebrows and took a deep breath. ¡°We have one more


    commercial shoot with Carter Group, don¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°Yes. That¡¯s thest one for this season-they didn¡¯t cancel it, probably wanting to end on a good note.


    Otherwise, they would have to break the contract.¡±


    ¡°When is it?¡±


    ¡°The day after tomorrow, at a studio owned by Carter Group.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie¡¯s mind cleared up after the shower.


    When she opened the door, she was surprised to see Dexter waiting for her.


    She lowered her head as she folded up the towel. ¡°I apanied Laura to view some apartments


    today.


    1


    She wanted to cheer me up, so she brought me to the club-it wasn¡¯t on purpose. Don¡¯t me her; of


    course. I¡¯m not to be med either.


    She was more confident and natural whenever she spoke with Dexter. However, she left out the part


    about meeting Morgan.


    Standing in the dim yellow light, he replied seriously, I don¡¯t me anyone. I¡¯m just worried about your


    safety; I don¡¯t want anything to happen to you.¡±


    ¡°What would happen? With you around, Wavery is the safest city, isn¡¯t it?¡± she retorted mockingly.


    Dexter realized that she wasn¡¯t in a good mood and fell silent.


    ¡°Sleep well, Josie. Goodnight.¡± He was a decisive person; since the conversation could hardly go on,


    he decided to end it and made his way to the study.


    Before he walked away, she suddenly called out in a small voice, ¡°Dexter.¡±


    He turned around.


    ¡°Is there anything you¡¯re not telling me?¡± she asked after mustering her courage.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He paused briefly for a few seconds. ¡°No.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes when she heard his reply.

 Chapter 584

    Chapter 584


    Chapter 584 Fell Into the Pool


    The next day, Josie received a message when she woke up.


    ¡®Come to Carter Group. You will see what you¡¯ve been wondering.


    Another anonymous number texted her. Obviously, it was from the same person the day before.


    She took a deep breath before replying. Where do we meet?¡±


    ¡°She took the bait,¡± Xenia smirked as she sent the exact location over.


    She had to shoot amercial in an indoor pool with someone not involved in the show business.


    They had to fall into the pool together to meet the vibe of themercial.


    Now that she had lost her poprity, many people were much colder to her. Some didn¡¯t even try to


    hide. their disdain for her.


    Josie asked one of the maids to apany her, but she didn¡¯t inform Dexter.


    When she arrived, only one assistant remained with Xenia, looking rather deste.


    Is she the one who sent me the picture? Is that her? It doesn¡¯t look like it, though-she¡¯s too thin. Dexter


    would have Taken action during the wedding if it was really her, but he didn¡¯t.


    Many people were surprised to see Josie. I don¡¯t seem to recall this celebrity, they wondered amongst


    themselves.


    ¡°I¡¯m here now. What do you want?¡± she asked.


    Xenia gave her an appraisal before suddenly yelling, ¡°Mr. Director, haven¡¯t you been dissatisfied with


    the shoot? Here, I found you another girl!¡±


    The maid stood in front of Josie defensively.


    The director walked over and looked at her from head to toe. ¡°Looks good.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not a celebrity, and she¡¯s not going to be involved in the shoot!¡± The maid stomped her foot on


    the ground after seeing how Xenia was up to no good.


    ¡°Now, don¡¯t be so hasty. We are going to pay you at the end of the day. Madam, if you do well, I can


    even lead you into show business¡­¡± The director tried to convince Josie to join.


    With just a nce at Xenia, Josie already knew what she had nned. What a lousy n.


    ¡°Sure. Tell me what to do.¡±


    ¡°Madam, if something happens-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.


    Let¡¯s see what Xenia can do!


    Meanwhile, Arnold received a report right after a meeting ended.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, Ms. Warren is here.¡±


    |||


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    .ever.


    Josie? What is she doing here?


    ¡°Let her in.¡±


    ¡°No, she¡¯s in the studio, filming with¡­ Xenia.¡±


    Xenia!


    Arnold¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Why is she there?¡±


    ¡°Looks like they are filming amercial together-


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± Arnold got up immediately. ¡°Bring me over now.¡±


    Everyone in the studio bowed when they saw Arnold. ¡°Mr. Carter-


    Andy announced. ¡°Get back to work!¡±


    As the cameras started rolling, the director sat in front of the camera and barked, ¡°Start!¡±


    Josie had some light summer clothes on. Even though she was next to Xenia, she held her own


    ground. She performed quite well despite her underlying nerves.


    Arnold¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw her.


    While filming, they weren¡¯t required to perform the actions. Nevertheless, it was clear that Josie would


    not go easy on Xenia.


    Arnold frowned when understanding dawned upon him.


    Frustrated that her antics did not make a fool of Josie, Xenia got mad and pulled Josie with her before


    falling into the pull.


    ¡®Ssh!¡¯


    A sense of dread took hold of Arnold¡¯s body. He reacted quickly and leaped into the pool. ¡°Josie!¡±


    The director took off his earpiece and instructed, ¡°Why are you guys standing there? Save her!¡±


    Josie knew how to swim-or she would never allow this situation to happen. As she emerged from the


    water, she was stunned when she saw the man swimming toward her. D


    ¡°Arnold?¡±

 Chapter 585

    Chapter 585


    Chapter 585 Causing Him Difficulties


    Arnold was drenched. Water dripped from his hair as he swam to Josie. He grabbed her hand and


    pulled her up. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Josie never expected him to show up.


    The film set was chaotic. A few staff jumped into the water to save Xenia.


    Arnold¡¯s eyes were wet, but Josie could see the fury burning within them, leaving her stunned.


    momentarily.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine¡­¡±


    Arnold dragged Josie onto drynd. Josie¡¯s maid immediately covered her with her towel. ¡°Mrs.


    Russell, are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?¡±


    Josie shivered from the cold and pulled the towel tighter around her. Then, she looked up and asked,


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Arnold dried his hair with a towel. His gaze had turned calm again. ¡°I was passing by and noticed what


    happened. Josie, why do I keep bumping into you? How can you be so careless about your safety?¡±


    -If one were to listen closely, one could hear a hint of anger in his tone.


    Josie looked down, pretending to dry her hair. She did not know how to reply to Arnold or tell him why


    she was there.


    Meanwhile, Xenia spurted the water she swallowed after a staff conducted CPR on her. She red at


    Josie, unable to conceal the hatred in her eyes.


    However, she suddenly noticed that Arnold was there. Her eyes widened in shock. It was toote to


    take everything back.


    Why is he here?


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± The director came to Arnold and did not know what to say.


    Furthermore, he never expected his small-scale filming would trigger Arnold¡¯s wrath.


    ¡°Is this how you treat actors?¡± Arnold asked coldly.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ It¡¯s an oversight.¡±


    The spectators were curious. They knew Xenia was one of Arnold¡¯s ex-girlfriends. Yet, he did not save


    her first and saved Josie instead.


    Furthermore, he was married, and his wife was the daughter of the Olsen family.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Everyone was interested to see how things would unfold.


    Arnold sensed the situation would cause severe repercussions. He tossed the towel aside and turned


    to Josie. ¡°I¡¯ll call him.¡±


    Josie instantly understood who he was talking about. She parted her lips and mumbled, ¡°Dexter.¡±


    Arnold nced at her.


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I understand it will cause you trouble, but I can¡¯t let him know¡­¡±


    If Dexter knew she came to Carter Group, he would investigate and get to the bottom of it. However,


    Josie could not let him find out anything yet.


    Arnoldughed upon hearing her. He bent toward her and looked into her eyes with a hint of bitterness.


    ¡°Why did you make such a request even though you knew it would put me in trouble? Do you not feel


    sorry for me?¡±


    While Arnold knew he did not matter much to Josie, hearing such words from her still hurt.


    Josie did not insist and fell silent. Water dripped from her hair.


    Arnold¡¯s heart trembled when he saw her docile and helpless. However, he steeled his heart. ¡°Please


    understand. I¡¯ve recently gotten married. You know how scandalous it is if news spread about me


    jumping in to save another man¡¯s wife.¡±


    Josie understood and felt regretful. She realized she should never havee here. Judging from


    Xenia¡¯s behavior, she could not have been the one who sent her the photo.


    Arnold walked away. He red at Xenia as he walked past her. ¡°We need to talk.¡±


    Xenia trembled with fear. She knew Arnold would not forgive her for the times she harmed Josie.


    Meanwhile, Andy brought clean clothes to a break room in Carter Group. He said awkwardly, ¡°Ms.


    Warren, you put Mr. Carter in a difficult position.¡±


    ¡°I understand. Please convey my apology to him,¡± Josie replied sincerely. ¡°Feel free to call me if he


    needs me to exin anything to Summer.¡±

 Chapter 586

    Chapter 586


    Chapter 586 She Received a Video


    Andy was about to say something but stopped himself. In the end, he sighed and left the room.


    The maid could not understand why Josie had to apologize. ¡°Mr. Carter jumped in on his own volition.


    How could it be your fault¡­¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie was not sure how to exin. She felt indebted to Arnold.


    After waiting in the break room for twenty minutes, Josie¡¯s phone beeped, causing her to jump in


    surprise.


    The maid was puzzled by her reaction. She handed Josie the phone and said, ¡°Mrs. Russell, it¡¯s a


    message.¡±


    Josie shuddered and sensed a shiver down her spine. The message was like Pandora¡¯s box, tempting


    her to open it.


    She epted the phone and slowly unlocked the screen. It was the same unknown number as before.


    A video popped up below her earlier ¡®What do you want?¡¯ reply.


    It was a fifteen-second video.


    Josie was wary about opening it.


    She took a deep breath to control her trembling before walking to the side to open it.


    The video was dark, but she could vaguely see a woman cing a cup of water on the bedside table.


    As shi was about to leave, the man sleeping soundly suddenly got up and forcefully trapped her


    beneath him. Ho kissed and groped her, causing her to moan.


    His actions were smooth and well-practiced.


    The photo must havee from this video.


    Josie felt excruciating pain in her heart as if a knife had stabbed her. It left her so wobbly that she


    nearly. dropped her phone.


    She and Dexter had intimate rtions many times. How could she not recognize his mannerism?


    Is this real?


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± the maid suddenly whispered.


    Josie stiffened. She gradually turned around and saw the man in her thoughts standing right before her.


    Dexter was dressed in a suit and had juste out of a fneeting. A slight stubble on his chin made


    him. even more mature and handsome. However, his expression was sullen and intimidating.


    He nced at Josie and found her drenched all over. She seemed alluring, like a delicate flower.


    The thought that Arnold saw her in this state filled hira with intense jealousy.


    Josie¡¯s anger grew as she watched him approach her. Any sense of remorse she had disappeared


    after sh watched the video.


    He said he had hidden nothing from me.


    But that video couldn¡¯t have been fake.


    Suddenly, the maid eximed. She noticed blood on Josie¡¯s clothes. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re bleeding¡­¡±


    Josie nced at it and was puzzled because she felt no pain. However, she soon figured out the


    reason and closed her eyes.


    At this moment, she felt someone grabbed her wrist. She looked up into Dexter¡¯s cold gaze. He


    tightened his grip but did not say anything. Then, he took off his jacket and tied it around her waist.


    He knew what caused the blood stain on her clothes.


    His thoughtfulness did not move Josie, but she also found it hard to imagine that he had an affair with


    another woman.


    She shoved his hand away. ¡°Thank you for your kindness. I can walk by myself


    Her tone angered Dexter. She only managed to step forward before Dexter wrapped his arms around


    her waist and carried her, leaving her feet dangling in the air. Dexter threatened in his fury, ¡°Don¡¯t


    move, or I¡¯ll throw you back into the water. You can stay there all night.¡±


    Dexter truly lost his temper.


    But Josie felt numb. Shouldn¡¯t I be the one angry?


    The maid dared not say anything when Dexter was in a bad mood.


    Dexter brought Josie back to Mason Garden.


    Moses could not help but feel nervous as he drove the car.


    On the other hand, Josie sat in a corner and tried to get as far away as she could from Dexter. She did


    not want to speak, especially to him.


    Meanwhile, Dexter¡¯s expression darkened like a sky on the verge of a storm.


    Once they arrived at Mason Garden, Julie was shocked to see Josie in a disheveled state. ¡°Oh dear,


    what happened to you?¡±

 Chapter 587

    Chapter 587


    Chapter 587 Don¡¯t Let Her Out


    Josie was still angry about Dexter when she entered the bathroom. She took a long bath and found


    Dexter standing outside the bathroom in casual clothes and his arms crossed.


    He stared at her unwaveringly.


    Josie pretended not to see him and dried her hair with a towel. Dexter suddenly grabbed her hand and


    pulled her back as she was about to walk away.


    That forced Josie to return to her original spot. His grip hurt her hand, causing red marks to appear on


    it. She gradually looked up. ¡°What¡¯s this for? Are you punishing me because Xenia is your lover?¡±


    Her words angered Dexter even more. His gaze turned vicious as he said, ¡°Josie, when have you


    be so nasty!¡±


    Nasty? Josieughed in anger. ¡°Only my father has the right to speak to me in such a tone,¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes threateningly.


    He grabbed her hand. ¡°Why did you go to Carter Group?¡±


    Josie daringly met his gaze. ¡°I was having an affair with Arnold. Happy now?¡±


    She deliberately angered him. Dexter felt a sharp pain in his heart. He forced down his fury and replied.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to you. Why did you go to Carter Group?¡±


    If not for you, why would I bother going to Carter Group?


    However, Josie strongly resisted saying those words.


    She was so persistent and stubborn that Dexter sensed something was wrong, but he could not figure


    out why. He softened his tone. ¡°Can you please tell me? I won¡¯t get angry.¡±


    Won¡¯t he get angry? He has no right to be angry with me.


    Josie looked up and repeated, ¡°I¡¯ve told you. I went there to have an affair with Arnold.¡±


    The word ¡®affair¡¯ caused Dexter to narrow his eyes. His voice turned stern. ¡°Stop lying!¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what you think?¡±


    Josie!¡±


    She looked at his familiar face and did not dare think he was intimate with another woman. Although


    she wanted to trust him, her faith in him had severely diminished.


    ¡°You still won¡¯t tell me?¡± Dexter¡¯s gaze turned cold and vicious. ¡°You can stay here until you¡¯re willing to


    tell the truth!¡±


    He left the room and locked the door. Furthermore, he ordered the servants, ¡°Don¡¯t let her out until


    she¡¯s willing to confess!¡±


    Isn¡¯t this a house arrest?


    el! Let me out!¡±


    No one responded.


    Josie was having her period, so her face was rmingly pale. Moreover, she had fallen into the pool.


    Thus, her headache was worse than usual, and she felt unbearable difort all over her body.


    Josiey in bed and had no choice but to turn on her phone to seek help from Laura. She noticed the


    messages Laura had sent her.


    ¡°Did you push Xenia into the pool?


    What happened? Why aren¡¯t you responding?


    You¡¯re trending!¡±


    ¡®Xenia¡¯s management agency med you for everything! Where are you? Please reply!


    There were chains of damningments.


    Josie did not expect to be trending. Xenia was a celebrity and had many fans. Thus, almost all of the


    comments were scolding Josie.


    She read thements one by one and suddenly felt tired. At the same time, she found her situation


    laughable. Is this how it feels to have no one believe you?


    It¡¯s pointless to exin.


    Then, she closed her eyes. Dexter is the kind of person to be ruthless when he gets angry.


    He must have turned on signal blockers. There¡¯s likely no phone signal in the region around Mason


    Garden.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were red with fury. On her phone screen, the message ¡®I would have to be crazy to give in


    to Dexter¡¯ kept buffering. Then, a red exmation mark popped up, indicating that it could not be sent.


    Josie lost all hope. Even if Laura were to rush to Mason Manor, she could not do anything about


    Dexter¡¯s decision.

 Chapter 588

    Chapter 588


    Chapter 588 cklist


    Josie gave up andy in bed, trying to sleep well. Unfortunately, her headache worsened due to a


    fever. She whimpered in pain.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    However, she forced herself to stay strong.


    She was determined not to cry because she knew Dexter was watching her every move from the


    surveince system. She believed he would look down on her if he saw her crying. Thus, Josie gripped


    the nket and shut her eyes tightly. She felt tears threatening to spill from her eyes as she tried to fall


    asleep.


    Meanwhile, Dexter watched Josie toss and turn on the screen without a hint of emotion on his face,


    Josie has always been stubborn. Once she decides on something she will never stray from it. It¡¯s


    impossible to make her


    submit to anyone.


    Dexter did not want to do this to her, especially after someone had dragged her into the pool. It hurt him


    to see her suffer.


    However, he could not help but be furious to see her treating their rtionship as if it was nothing.


    Therefore, he steeled his heart and locked her up.


    Larry came in and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, the maid, who went out with Mrs. Russell, wishes to talk to you.¡±


    The maid discovered that Dexter ced Josie under house arrest. She could not understand why Josie


    was punished when Xenia was the culprit. Therefore, she stood before the door nervously, wanting to


    plead for mercy on behalf of Josie.


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned cold. ¡°No, tell her to leave.¡±


    ¡°What the heck is wrong with you? Are you out to humiliate me?¡±


    Summer barged into Arnold¡¯s office in Carter Group in her high heels before mming her handbag


    against him.


    The metal decoration on her handbag scratched Arnold¡¯s forehead, leaving a streak of red.


    He did not show any pain but looked at Summer calmly. ¡°Dexter personally came to pick her up. Why


    are you so anxious?¡±


    Summer¡¯s face was covered with thick makeup. Her ruby-red lips curved into a smirk. ¡°Since you¡¯re so


    good at weighing the pros and cons, do you know the media learned about the incident? Your videos


    are trending all over the Web. Everyone¡¯s talking about how furious you were and how you jumped in


    not to save your ex-girlfriend, but that f*cking Mrs. Russell!¡±


    It would have made more sense if he saved his ex-girlfriend, but he saved Josie instead!


    Summer¡¯s chest heaved as anger and jealousy warred within her.


    ¡°Dexter will issue a statement. You don¡¯t have to worry about being humiliated as my wife. Arnold


    arched his eyebrows. He lit a cigar and smoked indifferently.


    Summerughed angrily. She nodded and turned to a woman who had been kneeling at the side for a


    long time. She grabbed a folder on the way and mmed it against the woman. ¡°B*tch! This is all your


    fault.¡±


    Xenia cowered under Summer¡¯s intimidating aura and trembled fearfully. She did not dare to look up.


    ¡°Mrs¡­ Mrs. Carter, it wasn¡¯t me. Josie pulled me into the pool..¡±


    Summer raised her feet, pushing her beautiful high heel against Xenia¡¯s chin. She looked at Xenia as if


    she was trash. ¡°If you didn¡¯t scheme against Josie, why would shee to Carter Group to look for


    you? Tell me, why were you against her?¡±


    Xenia¡¯s trembling worsened. She looked at Arnold pleadingly. ¡°T¡­ I couldn¡¯t stand the sight of her.


    She¡­ She¡¯s annoying!¡±


    Summer sneered and pressed her heel harder, causing Summer¡¯s face to turn red and swollen.


    ¡°If I were you, I wouldn¡¯t have used such a crude method and dragged everyone down, Summer said


    disdainfully. Then, she muttered to herself, ¡°How should I deal with this trash?¡±


    ¡°cklist her.¡± Arnold suddenly replied. He snuffed out the cigar and wiped the ash from his hand. His


    tone was so indifferent that it was as if he was talking about the weather.


    Xenia turned pale with terror and slumped to the floor.

 Chapter 589

    Chapter 589


    Chapter 589 Nothing Can Happen to Her


    Josie kept dreaming in her sleep. She dreamed about Dexter being in bed with an unknown woman.


    He cuddled the woman and said she was the one he loved the most.


    The sight brought her to her knees. She burst into tears and begged him not to do this to her.


    However, Dexter did not understand why she cried. He looked at her with confusion and disdain. It was


    his disdainful expression that finally shattered her resolve.


    It waste. Dexter sat quietly in the study, staring at theputer screen. The high-end surveince


    system showed high-definition footage of Josie¡¯s sleeping face. He had been watching it for a few


    hours.


    Although he said he would keep her under house arrest, it was only for tonight. He nned to let her


    go the next day.


    Suddenly, Dexter noticed something off about Josie. Her face was flushed, and she appeared


    miserable as she tossed and turned on the bed.


    His expression changed when he sensed something was wrong.


    He stood up immediately and left the study.


    Larry and the maid were standing right outside.


    The maid insisted on seeing Dexter. Since he refused, she stubbornly stood outside the study. Larry


    feared she would cause problems and had no choice but to guard the study. The two had been ring


    at each other for some time.


    Seeing Dexter leaving the study, they called in unison, ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter did not acknowledge them but walked away toward Josie¡¯s room.


    He soon reached the door and held the handle. The coldness of the metal door handle prompted him to


    pause.


    A hint of concern appeared on his stern expression. Before entering, he turned the door handle and


    ordered Larry, ¡°Turn off all the signal blockers and call Anderson toe here!¡±


    Then, he proceeded to Josie¡¯s bed and found her flushed and weak. She looked as if she was dying.


    Dexter carried her and heard her mumbling hoarsely in her dreams. He touched her forehead and was


    shocked by how hot it was.


    Panic appeared on his face, ¡°Jo!¡±


    But Josie did not wake up. Her body was worryingly flushed.


    In less than ten minutes, Larry entered the room and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, Dr. Monte is in the middle of


    surgery. I¡¯m afraid he can¡¯te here any time soon.¡±


    Hearing him, Dexter immediately carried Josie in his arms and rushed outside. ¡°Make an appointment.


    with the best hospital in the city and get the car ready!¡±


    Larry immediately followed Dexter. The maid was stunned briefly before following them.


    The scene was chaotic.


    The hospital readily epted Dexter¡¯s request. Once Dexter¡¯s car arrived, the hospital director came


    out to receive them. He brought the best doctor in the hospital with him.


    They saw the unconscious Josie in Dexter¡¯s arms and knew they were up for a considerable challenge.


    With how intimidating Dexter was, they knew they would be in severe trouble if they failed to cure


    Josie. Dexter handed Josie over to the doctor and instructed firmly, ¡°Nothing can happen to her.¡±


    That added stress to the already nervous medical staff.


    They rushed Josie to the emergency room. No outsiders were allowed in, no matter their prominence.


    Thus, Dexter had to wait outside.


    Although the hospital director was a man in his fifties, he could not help bit shudder as he saw


    Dexter¡¯s. expression. Dexter appeared cold and intimidating as he stood with his hands behind him.


    His brow remained tense throughout. Thus, the hospital director knew that Josie mattered to him


    tremendously.


    He considered telling Dexter that Josie only had a fever.


    However, Dexter turned to the hospital director with a stern gaze. ¡°You should go and make sure that


    your staff is doing their best to cure her.¡±


    The hospital director answered awkwardly, ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Only Larry noticed that Dexter¡¯s hands were trembling behind him.


    Larry worked for Dexter for many years and experienced bloody, cruel, and dangerous situations with


    him. He had never seen Dexter¡¯s weak side.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.

 Chapter 590

    Chapter 590


    Chapter 590 Fever


    Dexter loses his rationality whenever anything happens to Josie.


    Is Josie¡­ that important to him?


    After half an hour, the lights in the emergency room went out, and a group of doctors came out of the


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    room.


    Larry went to them and asked, ¡°How is she?¡±


    The lead doctor sighed and nced at the intimidating Dexter, who stood a short distance from him.


    Dexter remained in his spot and stared at them.


    The doctor¡¯s sigh heightened his anxiousness. ¡°How is she? Say something.¡±


    This was the best hospital in the city, so all the doctors had extensive clinical experience. They thought


    Josie had a severe condition when Dexter rushed her to the hospital in the middle of the night.


    However, after aplete body check-up, she only had a fever.


    Then, one of them recognized Josie and eximed, ¡°Isn¡¯t she the recently trending Mrs. Russell


    The medical staff were shocked. They recalled the scene outside the emergency room and understood


    what was happening. Knowing who their patient was gave them a sense of trepidation. Thus, they did


    everything they could to treat her.


    However, it was only a fever. Still, she nearly fainted from it. Her condition would have turned


    threatening had she been brought to the hospital anyter.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Her fever has subsided, and we administered an IV drip. She should wake up soon.¡±


    Then, the doctor felt it was his duty to reprimand Dexter. ¡°How could not one notice until her fever


    reached. such severity? She would have been in serious trouble if she were brought here anyter.¡±


    The maid looked down in remorse.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes flickered. Finally, he said, ¡°When will she wake up?¡±


    ¡°It depends on her recovery. She exhausted herself recently. Thus, she must be more careful and get


    more


    rest.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze darkened slightly.


    These doctors had fulfilled their duties the best that they could. Still, they could not help but feel


    intimidated by Dexter¡¯s domineering presence. Larry was more approachable than Dexter, so the lead


    doctor said, ¡°Pleasee with me to get her prescriptions.¡±


    Larry left with the doctor.


    The hospital director arranged a VIP room for Josie.


    Dexter stood by the bed and watched the soundly sleeping woman. She was no longer flushed like


    before. Moreover, she seemed so peaceful and quiet that Dexter¡¯s anger disappeared.


    However, he could not help but worry about her. He bent down and touched her face, recalling the


    times she remained by his side when he fell asleep. One time, he caught her trying to kiss him. She


    was so embarrassed that her face turned pink.


    Dexter sat by her bed and watched her unwaveringly, letting time slip by.


    Larry went to the ward after getting Josie¡¯s prescription. He was about to push the door to get in but


    was stunned by the scene before him.


    The usually stern and emotionless Dexter tucked Josie under the nket and arranged her shoes so


    that she could put them on easilyter.


    Josie slept for a long time and was no longer disturbed by turbulent dreams. It was morning by the


    time. she woke up.


    She thought she was still under house arrest in her room in Mason Garden. Thus, she opened her eyes


    and resolved to ept her situation calmly. Unexpectedly, everything she saw was white. Furthermore,


    Dexter was right beside her.


    He looked at her and seemed to have watched her for a long time. Josie instinctively nced at her


    surroundings and realized she was in the hospital.


    Dexter appeared calm. He adjusted her bed so that she could be propped up slightly.


    Then, he went to the kitchen and brought her a bowl of soup. ¡°Your fever subsided. You should eat


    something.¡±


    Josie did not forget how he hurt her heart. She closed her eyes and replied, ¡°Can you leave? I want to


    be

 Chapter 591

    Chapter 591


    Chapter 591 He Made It


    Larry waited for a long time before Dexter finally left Josie¡¯s ward.


    He noticed how haggard Dexter seemed and bowed slightly. ¡°Mr. Carter informed me that he would


    cklist Xenia.¡±


    Dexter unstrapped the watch on his wrist. ¡°She¡¯s already a B-list celebrity, and he has no qualms


    kicking her. That¡¯s surprisingly responsible of him.¡±


    Sensing the sarcasm in his tone, Larry said, ¡°That woman did not know what¡¯s good for her and


    provoked. Mrs. Russell and Ms. Olsen. Arnold would not let her go unpunished.¡±


    Dexter arched his eyebrows upon hearing Larry. ¡°Ms. Olsen?¡±


    Larry immediately corrected himself. ¡°I meant Mrs. Carter.¡±


    Dexter walked away. He paused briefly and nced at Josie¡¯s ward. ¡°Josie has been behaving


    strangely recently. I need you to investigate if anyone did something to her.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josiey in bed and counted with her fingers the number of times she had been hospitalized in the past


    two years. Although life was hard in the past, she was healthy. However, now that she had better


    means, she kept getting ill because of Dexter.


    She turned on her phone and nced at the screen. It was November, meaning another year would


    end.


    soon.


    She wanted to look at the video again, but her courage faltered the moment she tapped on it. Thus,


    she had no choice but to turn it off.


    It waste.


    Dexter cooked soup in the kitchen and flinched when he identally scalded his hand. Larry could not


    stand seeing the man he esteemed get hurt. Thus, he stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, let me


    do it. You haven¡¯t slept the whole ofst night. What about you get some rest.¡±


    However, Dexter nced up indifferently and said, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Larry flinched and did not dare to speak.


    ¦§


    Dexter looked elegant as he focused on cooking. He scooped the soup into a bowl. While waiting for it


    to cool, he slowly wiped his hands and asked casually, ¡°Have youpleted what I asked?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell. Xenia¡¯s management agency released a statement before cklisting her and


    exined the truth to the public. Mrs. Russell¡¯s reputation has been restored.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Once the temperature was right, Dexter brought the soup to Josie¡¯s ward. As he was about to enter, he


    noticed people standing before Josie¡¯s bed. Laura was one of them.


    He paused and stayed quiet.


    Josie looked past the people around her bed and noticed Dexter. She wanted to warn them that Dexter


    was here, but Laura interrupted, ¡°Isn¡¯t he too much? How could he treat you like this when it wasn¡¯t


    your fault? Xenia tantly bullied you. Understandably, you get back at her for what she did. How could


    he vent his anger on you?¡±


    Josie did not hold back herughter.


    She noticed Dexter leaving a paper bag by the door and left quietly. Then, Larry carefully closed the


    door.


    Her smile froze.


    After a while, Josie came to her senses and said, ¡°Laura, can you get me that paper bag?¡±


    Laura ran to get it. ¡°What is it?¡±


    She opened the bag and found a bowl of soup. The soup was packed with nutritious ingredients and


    smelled delicious.


    Laura nced at Josie and was confused. ¡°Did you order a takeaway?¡±


    Josie ced the soup aside and replied indifferently, ¡°Dexter made it.¡±


    Laura was rendered speechless.


    Josie ate a spoonful and thought it tasted all right. She asked, ¡°You looked better. How¡¯s your health.


    nowadays?¡±


    Laura sat down slowly. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Zach has been sent to Sudenton. I¡¯m not sure when he will be


    back. It feels like I¡¯m strapped to a time bomb.¡±


    Josie understood what she meant and nodded. She paused eating and asked, ¡°Is Dr. Morgan still


    treating you?¡±

 Chapter 592

    Chapter 592


    Chapter 592 Begging Her


    Laura had a strange expression when Josie mentioned Dr. Morgan. She nodded. ¡°Yes, Dr. Morgan is a


    good person.¡±


    A good person¡­. Josie wanted tough. This description doesn¡¯t fit Morgan at all. Still, he can be


    charming if he


    chooses.


    Otherwise, how would I have fallen for his tricks?


    Josie lost her appetite as she recalled thest time they met. She had no idea when Morgan returned


    and why. She hoped she never had to see him again.


    Josie stayed in the hospital to rest for the following few days. However, she never saw Dexter again in


    those days.


    The day before her discharge, an unwee guest appeared in her ward. It was Xenia.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She brought a crowd with her. It was not a simple visitation. She likely arranged for reporters to take


    photos of her entering the hospital and publishing articles about her visit.


    It was all to remedy her reputation.


    Did


    youe to see me? I¡¯m standing right here. What are you looking at?¡±


    Xenia looked left and right when Josie¡¯s clear tone brought her to her senses. She smiled stiffly, ¡°Oh,


    are you all right?¡±


    Josie found the situation amusing. ¡°It has been so many days. You would have visited days earlier if


    you


    cared.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been busy recently.¡±


    ¡°Seems like you¡¯re now free.¡± Although Josie did not feel hatred speaking to Xenia, she had no reason


    to be


    nice to her.


    Xenia clenched her fists. She lost all her jobs ever since Arnold cklisted her. Thus, she was indeed


    free.


    She looked at Josie with hatred and could not understand why an unremarkable woman like her


    caught. Dexter and Arnold¡¯s eyes.


    Still, she had no choice but to humble herself for the sake of her career.


    Arnold had cklisted her from the entertainment industry. Xenia could not think of any way to resolve


    this except to beg Josie.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, I didn¡¯t mean what I did. I called you over because I was jealous that Arnold liked you. I


    only wanted to make you suffer a little and did not expect things to spiral out of control. Can you please


    be merciful and let me go this time?¡± Xenia looked eager to please Josie.


    Josie pondered briefly before answering, ¡°You want me to let you go? But I didn¡¯t do anything to you.¡±


    Xenia was on the verge of tears. ¡°Can you talk to Mr. Carter for me? I really can¡¯t afford to lose my job.


    I swear I will never bother you again!¡±


    Josie wanted tough. ¡°Xenia, you came to the wrong person. Rather than me, it would be best if you


    talked to Mrs. Carter. She is better positioned to persuade Mr. Carter.¡±


    Xenia immediately recalled how Summer stepped on her that day and treated her like trash.


    ¡°Josie, I¡¯m begging you. You have to help me. Didn¡¯t you also drag me into the pool? I had a fever too!¡±


    Josie nodded thoughtfully. ¡°But what does this have to do with me?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    Xenia knew her n failed. She nced at her surroundings and was relieved that Dexter was not


    around.


    She retorted, ¡°You are also a woman working in this industry. Can¡¯t you show some mercy? Do you


    think I don¡¯t know how you achieved all you have? Don¡¯t act like you¡¯re better than me.¡±


    Josie frowned in confusion.


    Xenia lowered her voice. ¡°I heard you used to work in Russell Group. Your rtionship with Dexter


    must have started then.¡±


    Josie felt irritable the moment she heard his name. Still, she could tell what Xenia implied. Why does


    Dexter keep attracting troublesome people wherever he goes?


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

 Chapter 593

    Chapter 593


    Chapter 593 Insulting Words


    Xenia took a deep breath and asked, ¡°Is he your sugar daddy?¡±


    There were many people in the ward. Everyone was stunned to hear Xenia say such words tantly.


    Although Josie had never regarded her rtionship with Dexter as such, she answered, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Her casual reply shocked everyone.


    Xenia widened her eyes, gleeful that Josie confirmed her spection. She could not understand why


    Dexter would like someone like Josic, prompting her eyes to redden with jealousy.


    Josie replied calmly. ¡°If not for him, I would have been exploited in this cut-throat industry. It¡¯s the same


    for you, right?¡±


    Josie¡¯s words angered Xenia. She pointed at Josie and scolded furiously, ¡°Me? I¡¯m not sleazy like you.


    Arnold and I were in a proper rtionship. It¡¯s pitiful that you¡¯re still unknown despite being in the


    industry for so long. Who knows how many men you slept with? You¡¯re nothing but a sl*t!¡±


    She had gone overboard and did not bother to hide her hatred for Josic.


    Josie¡¯s servant tried to defend her. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    However, Josie stopped her. Although angry about the nder, she did not want to fight Xenia publicly.


    Thus, she said, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Xenia¡¯s hand shook. She turned around to leave but stopped suddenly.


    The crowd blocked the door and would not move.


    A tall, handsome man stood before Josie, surrounded by an intimidating aura. He looked at her with a


    sharp gaze that seemed to pierce her soul.


    Xenia had no idea how much he had heard.


    Her mind went nk. She looked at Dexter and stuttered nervously, ¡°Mr¡­ Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    Moses was behind Dexter. He understood Dexter¡¯s silent instruction and stood before him. Then, he


    smiled warmly and asked. ¡°Did you say those words just now?¡±


    Xenia had a bad premonition and argued instinctively, ¡°¡­ It was Josie who insulted me first.¡±


    Moses nodded. ¡°But that¡¯s not what I heard.¡±


    He indicated to Xenia and the crowd to scram, but Xenia froze and did not get it at all. She looked at


    Dexter¡¯s cold expression and had a sudden idea. Thus, she ignored Moses and ttered, ¡°What a


    coincidence. I didn¡¯t expect to see you here, Mr. Russell. I never intended to say those words, but Mrs.


    Russell said you¡¯re her sugar daddy¡­¡±


    She thought Dexter would not be angry if she said this.


    Dexter behaved as if he did not hear her and unbuttoned his cuffs slowly.


    Moses smiled.


    The next moment, a pair of hands grabbed Xenia and forcefully turned her around before pping her


    face.


    The crowd trembled with fear. No one had ever witnessed such a tant show of force in public.


    Josie pushed through the crowd and saw Xenia fall to the floor, trembling profusely. She looked up and


    saw Moses waving his hand, itching to p her again.


    He pinched her cheek and threatened. ¡°Those who witnessed what they shouldn¡¯t would be blinded,


    and those who hear what they shouldn¡¯t would lose their cars. What about those who nder¡­¡±


    Xenia widened her eyes with terror.


    Moses asked slowly. ¡°What do you think will happen?¡±


    Despite themotion, they were in a hospital, yet no doctor could be found.


    Josie did not like how things were heading and grabbed Moses¡¯ arm to stop him. ¡°Moses!¡±

 Chapter 594

    Chapter 594


    Chapter 594 You Have Gone Overboard


    ¡°Mrs. Russell,¡± Moses said respectfully. He had worked with Dexter for so long that it was natural to


    him.


    Josie did not want to cause a scene. ¡°Please leave. Xenia brought reporters with her. It would be


    troublesome if the matter gets on the news.¡± Although she hated Xenia, she did not want to use


    violence against her.


    Moses remained still. ¡°Anyone who dares to publish anything shall die.¡±


    Xenia trembled as shey on the floor. Josie could not stand it anymore. ¡°Please listen to me and let


    her. go. I don¡¯t want to pursue the matter. I want to forget what happened today.¡±


    Moses was uncertain and turned to Dexter for instruction. Josie followed his line of sight and looked


    into Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    She knew Dexter had instructed Moses to do this.


    Moses kicked Xenia and said, ¡°Fine, I¡¯m willing to let it go if you apologize to Mrs. Russell and admit


    that you ndered her.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ you¡­.¡± Tears fell from Xenia¡¯s eyes.


    Seeing the scene, Josie went to Dexter and said urgently, Tell Moses to stop right now!¡±


    Previously, she had spoken as if she wanted Xenia dead, but now, she protected her. Dexter suddenly


    grew furious and grabbed Josie¡¯s chin. ¡°She ndered you. How could you plead for mercy on her


    behalf? Josie, it¡¯s pointless to pretend to be nice around me.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words fanned the me of Josie¡¯s anger. However, she did not want to argue and tried to


    leave, only for him to grab her arm.


    He nced at Moses, prompting Moses to stand straight and shout at Xenia, ¡°Apologize now!¡±


    Xenia¡¯s eyes were filled with tears. She considered quickly and swallowed her anger. ¡°Mrs. Russell¡­


    I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t have said those words. Please forgive me.¡±


    Although Josie wanted Xenia to apologize, she did not want the apology to be due to Dexter¡¯s threat.


    Still, she could not help but find it satisfying to see Xenia in this state. Thus, she nodded with conflicting


    feelings.


    Dexter red at her. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you leaving yet?¡±


    Before Xenia could say anything, her staff immediately helped her to stand up and dragged her away.


    All the while, Xenia cried profusely and looked pitiful and humiliated.


    Once the crowd left, Moses and the maid retreated, leaving Josie alone with Dexter.


    Josie red at Dexter and wrenched her arm from him. ¡°You have gone overboard.¡±


    Dexter pulled her to him and wrapped his arms around her waist. He embraced her and said softly.


    ¡°How can I defend you if you relent so easily?¡±


    ¡°How could you do this¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you going to let them bully you?¡±


    ¡°Who would dare to bully me after what you did? People will still spread the word even if the media


    doesn¡¯t publish anything.¡±


    ¡°They can say whatever they want.¡±


    Then, Dexter regarded her cautiously. ¡°Are you still angry¡­¡±


    Josie knew he was sincere because he could never fake such a gentle demeanor. Still, she was not


    sure how she felt. She pulled her hand away and replied, ¡°Let¡¯s leave the hospital first.¡±


    Neither spoke as they traveled to Mason Garden. Silence hung tensely between them.


    Anderson was already waiting when they arrived.


    Dexter sat in the master seat while Josie made tea beside him. She was not used to making Darjeeling


    tea, so it was not as fragrant as it should be. Still, Dexter drank it withoutining.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Furthermore, he seemed in a better mood than before.


    Dexter finished his tea before looking at Anderson, who bowed his head in remorse.


    Anderson came to Mason Garden expecting to be scolded.

 Chapter 595

    Chapter 595


    Chapter 595 Were You with Another Woman


    Dexter had provided Anderson with the best resources and training opportunities since Anderson


    showed medical talent. He funded everything, whether studying overseas or returning to the country to


    begin his medical career.


    Therefore, Dexter called Anderson over before he traveled overseas. This time, it was not as a friend


    but as an employer. He said, ¡°You know I trusted you¡¯


    In other words, he implied Anderson should only work for him and no one else.


    He spared no effort to nurture Anderson¡¯s talent, yet Anderson did not show up when he needed him.


    Anderson expected Dexter to bring this up. ¡°I couldn¡¯t abandon the patient during a life-threatening


    condition. You can punish me as you see fit.¡±


    Dexter did not seem to care. ¡°How is he now?¡±


    Josie quietly did her own thing. She knew when to stay out of Dexter¡¯s matter.


    Anderson answered honestly, ¡°He is all right now.¡±


    looked at the teacup indifferently. ¡°I understand a doctor must treat the ill. The matter was too


    I don¡¯t me you.¡±


    sudden,


    His words indicated understanding. Unknowing outsiders would even say that Dexter was generous,


    However, those present would see his stern expression as he spoke. Anderson¡¯s face turned pale. He


    kneeled and apologized immediately, ¡°I was wrong.¡±


    However, Dexter frowned and said, ¡°Stand up.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be nervous. I only asked a question. You don¡¯t have to kneel.¡±


    Anderson stood up as he was told.


    ¡°But if a person who works for me saves someone else when my life is at risk, how am I to trust this


    person?¡±


    This was the main thing Dexter wanted to say.


    His words also exposed the true nature of their rtionship. They usually behaved like friends, but


    Anderson did not have the right to be Dexter¡¯s equal.


    Anderson was silent for some time before saying, ¡°I will prioritize you from now on.¡±


    Josie stopped pouring tea and watched warm steam rising from the cup.


    Dexter smiled and replied, ¡°There¡¯s no need for that. I¡¯m not an unreasonable person. Since you work


    in a hospital, you should fulfill your responsibilities to the patients.¡±


    ¡°I understand¡­¡±


    Then, Dexter smiled and said, ¡°Josie¡¯s health is weak. Can you prescribe something to help her


    recover?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    This was what made Dexter intimidating. He aroused fear in people without having to say a word.


    Everyone could not help but be scared in his presence when he remained silent.


    After Anderson left, Josie changed her clothes and said without looking up, ¡°Can I talk to you?¡±


    Dexter was briefly stunned before following her.


    The bedroom was dim as only amp was left on. Josie and Dexter sat facing each other, looking at


    each other¡¯s faces. After a while, she took a deep breath and steeled her resolve. ¡°Were you with


    another woman beside me?¡±


    Dexter frowned upon hearing her.


    It was pointless to ask an adult male such a question.


    Therefore, Josie corrected herself. ¡°I mean, did you get together with another woman after we were


    married?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s frown deepened. He felt her question was absurd. ¡°No, I have never been with anyone after I


    married you.¡±


    He answered without hesitation.


    Josie could not understand why she suddenly felt relieved. Then, she nodded and pulled out her


    phone,


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She opened the relevant message and showed it to Dexter. ¡°What is this then?¡±


    She had decided to talk about the matter openly.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze turned bleak the instant he saw the message.

 Chapter 596

    Chapter 596


    Chapter 596 It Was Heather


    Dexter opened the video and watched his past mistake y before his eyes.


    He finally understood why Josie had been behaving strangely. He gently tossed the phone aside and


    faced Josie. ¡°I made a mistake in the United Kingdom, thinking that the woman was you. This video is


    iplete. I stopped immediately when I realized she wasn¡¯t you.¡±


    ¡°I will ask Larry to obtain the security footage.¡±


    Although Dexter was nervous while exining, he also seemed honest.


    Josie nodded. That means the thing in the video truly happened.¡±


    Dexter fell silent.


    ¡°I thought the man who proposed and convinced me to stay would never cheat on me with another


    woman. When I saw the video, I thought someone had faked it to sow discord between us. So I trusted


    you and went to Carter Group to investigate the matter.¡±


    Josie felt on the verge of giving up as she spoke. She was exhausted with everything.


    ¡°Honestly, what can I do even if you cheated on me? I have nothing of worth to keep a man like you.


    Everyone thinks we are ill-matched.¡±


    It hurt Dexter to see Josie depreciate herself. He exined helplessly, ¡°I didn¡¯t have intercourse with


    her. What the video showed was all we did. I pushed her off me after that.


    However, his words sounded unbelievable without proof.


    Yet, Josie nodded. ¡°I believe you.¡±


    Dexter frowned and did not dare to rx.


    ¡°Who was that woman?¡±


    Dexter hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°Heather.¡±


    Josie suddenly felt the woman¡¯s identity no longer mattered when Dexter hesitated. Her voice trembled.


    ¡°Did you¡­ not want to tell me?¡±


    Dexter frowned harder and replied immediately. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to overthink.¡±


    ¡°How could I overthink if it happened? It¡¯s your behavior that makes me suspicious!¡± Josie could no


    longer hold back her emotions. His moment of hesitation destroyed her effort to remain calm.


    ¡°Do you know what I did in the few days I was in the United Kingdom? I had surgery. No, after I


    returned to Wavery, I pleaded with Mark on behalf of Russell Group. What were you doing then?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Tears fell from her eyes. She could not contain them anymore. The thought of him being with that


    woman while she suffered was like a stab to her heart.


    ¡°Josie, please listen to me.¡± Dexter embraced her immediately. He tightened his hold such that veins


    popped up on the back of his hands. He calmed down and continued, ¡°I can exin and find evidence


    to prove my innocence. I won¡¯t ask you to trust me. All I ask is a chance to clear my name.


    Meanwhile, Josie gradually calmed down in his embrace. Then, Dexter repeated, ¡°Please leave it to me


    and let me deal with it. You can trust me.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes and did not wish to think anymore.


    ¡°Please leave. I want to rest.¡±


    She could pretend the matter never happened before Dexter told the truth. She could even analyze the


    matter rationally and guessed someone had tried to sow discord between them. Furthermore, she was


    even willing to trust Dexter.


    However, now that he had confessed, she suddenly could not hold back her emotions and felt so


    betrayed. that she wanted to give up.


    Dexter closed the door and went downstairs.


    Larry had been waiting for Dexter all this while and was shocked to see his red eyes and hopeless


    expression. ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±

 Chapter 597

    Chapter 597


    Chapter 597 A Misperception


    ¡°Who else knew about the incident in the United Kingdom?¡±


    Dexter stood still in the silent corridor as dust floated around him. Although a shadow partially


    concealed his face, Larry could keenly sense murderous intent from him.


    Larry answered immediately. ¡°No one knew except me.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter instantly understood what it meant. ¡°Bring Heather to see me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Although no one lived in Emerald Vi for a long time, the servants kept the ce so clean that there


    was no dust to be seen.


    Dexter stayed in the study and calmly inspected the items on the bookshelf. Josie never wanted to


    come to this vi since she discovered that Summer had been here before. Since she would note


    here, Dexter had no desire to either.


    This was the first time he stepped into the vi after a long time.


    ther dressed more casually than usual in a white maxi dress. She had a gentle and schrly


    appearance that endeared her to many people.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I heard you wish to see me.


    Dexter turned around and paused momentarily when he saw her dress. He did not speak but gestured


    to Larry, who stood behind her. Larry immediately handed Dexter a phone.


    It was the phone Heather was made to hand over when she entered the vi.


    Dexter took it and asked without looking up, ¡°Your password?¡±


    Heather frowned. ¡°Did you call me just to check my phone? What an unusual habit you have.¡±


    ¡°The password,¡± Dexter repeated.


    He seemed formidable even when calm. One could not help but feel intimidated.


    Heather took a deep breath and answered, ¡°0418.¡±


    Dexter frowned upon hearing the numbers and unlocked the phone. He checked her message log and


    found it clean.


    ¡°You work for Caesar. It doesn¡¯t make sense for your phone to have only these few numbers.¡±


    Heather pursed her lips and exined, ¡°Caesar is cautious. He gave me a work phone that can never


    be removed from thepany.¡±


    In other words, this was her personal phone.


    Dexter did not find what he wanted and tossed the phone on the table. ¡°Did you send the video to


    Josie?¡±


    Heather was stunned. ¡°What video? I didn¡¯t.¡±


    ilused. It seemed like she was telling the truth.


    Dexter stared at her.


    Heather became anxious. ¡°I really didn¡¯t.¡±


    Then, Dexter threw a document at her feet. ¡°You have no parents, and your background¡¯s clean.


    Furthermore, youpleted university with a public donation. It must have been difficult. However,


    people like you have no reason to get involved in this circle. Who¡¯s controlling you?¡±


    Heather could not help but shudder as Dexter exined the critical points of Heather¡¯s background


    with only a few words.


    She bore with the humiliation and stood straight. ¡°There has to be a reason why someone would


    subject. oneself to another¡¯s control. However, I have no family or weakness. Mr. Russell, you¡¯re


    overthinking. I¡¯m only an ordinary person.¡±


    Still, she was unusually courageous and never truly feared Dexter.


    ¡°You still won¡¯t speak?¡±


    ¡°I have nothing to reveal. Mr. Russell, you have a misperception about me.¡±


    Dexter stood up. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Heather hesitated before keeping up with him. It was drizzling outside, and the air was cool. Larry held


    an umbre for Dexter. Heather followed behind them and was anxious to speak.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, did Mrs. Russell find out about the incident?¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. I never talked to her.¡±

 Chapter 598

    Chapter 598


    Chapter 598 Deliberately Causing Trouble


    ¡°I have no reason to do such a thing. I will be the first person she suspects if she finds out about the


    incident. What do I have to gain from this?¡±


    Dexter remained silent.


    Heather¡¯s high heels stepped on a puddle and caused water to ssh everywhere.


    Dexter walked ahead. As Moses opened the car door, Dexter turned slightly and said, ¡°You look terrible


    in white. Don¡¯t wear it again.¡±


    Heather was stumped. Dexter¡¯s words heavily implied something.


    Meanwhile, Dexter entered the car and lowered the window partially. ¡°Meet me at Heaven on Earth in


    half


    an hour.¡±


    Heather was rendered speechless.


    The car sped away. He had no intention of offering her a ride.


    Heather stood in the wind, looking like a fallen white rose.


    She hugged her arms and tried to get a cab using an app. Unfortunately, Emerald Vi¡¯s unique


    location meant that cars came here. She had no choice but to walk outside in her high heels.


    The tarred road was long and unending. Her legs felt sore from walking, but she still could not find a


    cab.


    Dexter deliberately did this to her.


    She walked for around fifteen minutes before finally hailing a cab. The taxi driver was astonished.


    ¡°Miss, what happened to you?¡±


    Heather was not in the mood to chat. She said fearfully, ¡°Send me to Heaven on Earth right now. Can


    you reach there in fifteen minutes?¡±


    ¡°Fifteen minutes? It will take at least half an hour. Moreover, there¡¯s a traffic jam on the way.¡±


    ¡°No, it has to be fifteen minutes. Please, I beg you. I¡¯m willing to pay more.¡±


    The driver was rendered speechless.


    Calvin had not seen Dexter since they parted previously. He knew Dexter still held grudges against him


    for concealing Josie¡¯s car crash from him.¡±


    ¡°Do you have a business gathering today?¡± Calvin asked tentatively.


    ¡°Get me a private lounge.¡± Dexter¡¯s tone brood no argument.


    Heather arrived around forty minutester.


    Her white dress was stained with muddy sshes, and most of her makeup had faded. She cautiously.


    opened the private lounge door and was greeted with a fantastic sight..


    ¡°Mrs. Russell¡­¡± She flinched and looked at the man in the main seat.


    Dexter did not move, but the man beside him waved and said, ¡°Where are my manners? Pleasee


    in.¡±


    Calvin appeared interested in her. He poured her a ss of wine and gestured for her to sit beside him.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Heather nced at Dexter. ¡°Heather.¡±


    ¡°Your name sounds familiar. Have we met?¡±


    ¡°I used to work for Mr. Carter¡­¡±


    Arnold was Dexter and Calvin¡¯s rival. Naturally, their paths would not cross.


    ¡°Interesting.¡± Calvin seemed excited and offered her another wine. ¡°Do you dance?¡±


    The others fell silent when Calvin began speaking. They whistled as he mentioned dancing.


    Dexter did not show any emotion. He raised his ss and swirled the wine in it.


    Heather clenched her teeth and replied, ¡°I can dance.¡±


    Screams and cheers filled the room.


    Heather danced well. Although her movements were messy, her youthfulness made up for it.


    Furthermore, with a figure like hers, she looked good no matter how she danced.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. Calvin watched his expression curiously.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve fallen for her.¡±


    ¡°Does Josie know?¡±


    Dexter felt that mentioning her in such a ce meant defiling her name. ¡°Don¡¯t bring up her name


    here!¡±


    Meanwhile, Heather finished dancing and returned to the table. Calvin offered her a ss of wine.


    ¡°Drink up.¡±


    She hesitated briefly before epting it.


    Dexter observed silently.


    Heather finished the wine in a gulp. She looked gorgeous as she leaned back slightly, showing off her


    slender neck. Drops of wine rolled down her neck as she drank. Her neck arched beautifully.


    ¡°Thank you for the wine,¡± Heather said before turning to Dexter. ¡°Mr. Russell, you misunderstood me,¡±


    Dexter did not respond. Instead, Calvin spoke first. ¡°Why are you talking to him? He¡¯s already married.


    Talk to me instead. Name a price and be with me.¡±

 Chapter 599

    Chapter 599


    Chapter 599 My Wife Won¡¯t Like It.


    Heather¡¯s gaze turned stern. She ced the ss on the table.


    It was a clear rejection.


    Calvin instantly turned hostile. No one had ever rejected him before. He was so angry that he red at


    Heather intently as if trying to pierce her with his stare. Heather had a feeling that he would cause a


    scene


    soon.


    Calvin briefly met Dexter¡¯s gaze before looking at Heather fiercely. ¡°Do you know who I am?¡±


    How could she not know? She also knew she could not afford to offend anyone in this ce. She


    feared she would be doomed if she didn¡¯t escape immediately.


    She ignored Calvin and looked into Dexter¡¯s indifferent gaze, pleading for him to help her.


    F


    Suddenly, Larry entered and whispered something into Dexter¡¯s ear. Dexter leaned slightly to the side.


    His gaze was gloomy and intimidating.


    Then, right before Calvin could lose his temper, Dexter said, ¡°That¡¯s enough. Don¡¯t trouble the young


    lady.¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes brightened with hope.


    Calvin thought he had misheard andpletely forgot about his anger from before. He looked at


    Dexter in disbelief. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Didn¡¯t you tell me to scare her?


    Dexter appeared calm. He nced at the helpless Heather and headed outside. ¡°I don¡¯t want


    unnecessary problems.¡±


    Larry greeted Calvin before following Dexter.


    Calvin nced at Heather and was stunned. He understood what Dexter meant. Heather would not


    stay no matter what he did.


    Meanwhile, Heather chased Dexter and caught up with him at the end of the corridor. Dexter draped a


    suit jacket over his arm and seemed to expect her.


    Heather smiled cheerfully. ¡°Mr. Russell, do you not suspect me anymore?¡±


    Dexter did not pause. His expression was indifferent as he replied, ¡°You¡¯re surprisingly happy even


    though


    gave you a lot of trouble.¡±


    I


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°All that matters is that the misunderstanding is cleared. I¡¯m willing to exin the matter to your wife if


    needed.¡±


    Dexter raised his eyebrows. A while ago, Larry discovered that the message sent to Josie¡¯s phone


    came from Rivodia.


    If Heather were behind this, she would not let anyone trace the message¡¯s origin. Yet, Dexter¡¯s team


    found


    1.


    The cold wind blew at Heather when she stepped out of the nightclub, causing her to shiver from the


    cold.


    1.2


    Furthermore, she wore a dress that showed her long legs, making her s sultry and beautiful.


    Dexter watched the scene and frowned, ¡°You should leave Caesar when you can.¡±


    Heather smiled bitterly. Do you think I have a choice? Still, she replied, ¡°Thank you, Mr. Russell¡­¡± She


    paused and fluttered hershes. ¡°Let¡¯s meet again sometime. I¡¯ll buy you a beer.¡±


    She thanked him even though he wrongly suspected her.


    Dexter smiled ambiguously. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. My wife won¡¯t like it.¡±


    Heather wanted to respond but stopped herself. She bowed slightly and left. Then, she walked away


    with. her head held high. It was hard to know what she was thinking.


    Meanwhile, Dexter stood with his hands behind him and watched Heather disappear into the crowd.


    Her back looked so slender in the night scene that it felt like the wind could blow her away.


    Larry looked ahead, following Dexter¡¯s gaze. ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Riley seems like a dignified person. She


    doesn¡¯t look like someone who would scheme against others.¡±


    ¡°How do you know?¡± Dexter sneered and continued, ¡°Have you obtained the surveince record?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell. The hotel management said the surveince camera was not functioning, so I sent


    someone to fix it in the United Kingdom.¡±


    Dexter breathed a sigh of relief. I can prove my innocence upon obtaining theplete surveince


    record. Then, Josie¡­ won¡¯t be sad anymore.


    He smiled and instructed, ¡°Let¡¯s return to Mason Garden.¡±


    Then, he paused before continuing, ¡°I need you to get rid of Emerald Vi.¡±


    Larry was puzzled. ¡°Do you mean sell it?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Moses drove the car at high speed to Mason Garden. However, a servant informed, ¡°Mrs. Russell went


    out and hasn¡¯t returned.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Where did she go?¡±

 Chapter 600

    Chapter 600


    Chapter 600 Proving His Innocence


    Josie went to the work studio. She had been working from home for the past few days, and it seemed


    she was doing nothing while everyone else was working.


    She bought some snacks for her staff as afternoon tea. Everyone was astonished when she opened


    the door and came in.


    ¡°You¡¯ve be prettier, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie¡¯s dismal feelings finally improved. ¡°You¡¯re such a sweet talker. Take this and share it with


    everyone.¡±


    Laura also happened to be around today. The two sat together and had a good chat. ¡°Have you solved


    your problems with Dexter?¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°Why are you such a busybody?¡±


    ¡°Pfft, I¡¯m just curious. It¡¯s not just me. Everyone else is curious about your love story and wants to


    witness it personally.¡± Laura added, ¡°Even my psychologist asionally asks me about your recent


    developments. You have such great charm.¡±


    When Laura mentioned it, Josie froze. Morgan¡­ Why is he asking about this?


    ¡°I¡¯m doing fine. There¡¯s nothing to ask about.¡±


    Laura stopped asking when she saw Josie unwilling to speak.


    Josie only found out that Laura had epted Arnold¡¯s project aftering to the work studio. Laura


    thought it would be fine as long as Carter Group hadn¡¯t copsed.


    Josie still felt that something wasn¡¯t right, but she couldn¡¯t say anything since things were at such a


    stage.


    At this time, her cell phone vibrated. It was a message from Dexter. ¡®Look at your mailbox.


    She took a deep breath and was torn for a few seconds before she opened her mailbox. There was a


    video in it. It was around two minutes long.


    She was surprised to see it was a scene after Dexter and Heather were intimate. In the video, he


    paused for three seconds before pushing Heather away. The two stood opposite each other like they


    were strangers.


    After that, Dexter turned and left. Heather said something in agitation, and Dexter suddenly turned. He


    grabbed her upper jaw and threatened her fiercely. He wasn¡¯t affectionate to her at all.


    This was the full vid¨¦o.


    Josie watched it calmly and breathed a slight sigh of relief¡­ He really isn¡¯t that kind of person.


    Laura observed her expression and teased her. ¡°What¡¯s up? Have you solved your problems?¡±


    Josie blushed. ¡°Don¡¯t make fun of me.¡±


    After leaving the work studio, Dexter¡¯s car was already waiting outside. It was an all-ck vehicle. The


    car door opened, and the man in the vehicle looked weary yet gentle. Josie stood still but went to him


    in the


    end.


    Dexter held her hands tightly and didn¡¯t want to let go. ¡°What do you want to eat for dinner?¡±


    Josie let him do as he wanted to. ¡°I haven¡¯t forgiven you.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    He moved quickly and was able to get evidence in a day.


    ¡°What must I do for you to forgive me, Mrs. Russell?¡± The man humbled himself as he coaxed her.


    Josie looked at him in exasperation and suddenly burst outughing.


    The weather was a lot cooler after the rain. The maple tree¡¯s leaves outside Mason Garden started to


    fall. The fallen maple leaves rustled as the car rolled over them.


    Dexter came out of the study room, and Larry reminded him. ¡°Today is Wavery University¡¯s anniversary.


    It¡¯s Mrs. Russell¡¯s alma mater.¡±


    The man paused slightly. ¡°Alright.¡±


    At that moment, Josie was drawing at herputer in the master bedroom. Dexter suddenly appeared


    behind her and grabbed her left hand. ¡°Come out with me?¡±


    ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    ¡°Today is Wavery University¡¯s anniversary. We¡¯re invited.¡± He rubbed her nose.


    Josie¡¯s expression changed. She had never returned for so many years. The school¡¯s anniversary¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go.¡± She smiled. ¡°I¡¯m not done with my work.¡±


    Dexter was very shrewd. His ck eyes never left her and seemed gentle, but Josie could feel the


    unruliness and vigor in his gaze.


    ¡°What are you afraid of?¡± He asked half-jokingly.


    ¡°Nothing¡­¡±

 Chapter 601

    Chapter 601


    Chapter 601 Heading to Wavery University


    Dexter supported her up and held her hands tightly. ¡°In any case, you can¡¯te up with anything


    good. at home. Why don¡¯t we go out for a bit?¡±


    She was led downstairs, and she suddenly stopped on thest step. Indistinct panic appeared in her


    eyes, but she hid it well.


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling slightly unwell.¡±


    Dexter was on a lower step, but he was still taller. He knew she was lying, so he grew more forceful


    when she acted like this. ¡°Jo.¡±


    He had arranged for a car outside and instructed the servants.


    ¡°With your identity¡­ You¡¯ll be photographed.¡± Josie couldn¡¯t dissuade him, so she raised the most


    realistic.


    concern.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond. He seemed to have lost his patience. Dexter let go of her hand and bent down to


    pick her up. He kicked the door open and made his way out of Mason Garden.


    He opened the door and got into the car. He did everything smoothly.


    The man had devoured her ferociouslyst night, so she had no energy to resist.


    After the car sped off, multiple ck cars followed and escorted them safely from a distance.


    The car rolled over the fallen leaves.


    #


    Josie couldn¡¯t escape, so she could only worry about one thing. She didn¡¯t know what to do with the


    slippers on her feet.


    Dexter was prepared. He had instructed for a dress in a style that Josie liked to be sent ahead of time.


    He personally bent down and helped her put it on.


    Josie was angry and uncooperative when putting her shoes on. She wriggled her feet like a worm.


    Dexter was still patient initially but hit the sole of her feet in the end. ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±


    He was merciless, and there was a burning pain. Josie didn¡¯t have to look to know it must have been


    red.


    Her eyes reddened. ¡°Dexter Russell!¡±


    She looked at him bitterly and had a nasty expression.


    Dexter wasn¡¯t angry. He wiped away the aggrieved tears in the corners of her eyes. ¡°If it really hurts, I¡¯ll


    get Anderson on standby.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t say anything.


    The man¡¯s embrace was warm, but she was cold all over.


    Why did he suddenly want to take me back to school? Did he find out something?


    Since it was the anniversary, the various entrances of Wavery University were crowded. It was hard for


    Dexter¡¯s car to move.


    Josie looked at the young, good-looking boys and girls outside. Their expressions were intertwined with


    anticipation. It was like her young self when she thought she would have a great future.


    The car had stopped.


    The faculty staff building was outside.


    Larry opened the car door. Josie was well hidden in Dexter¡¯s arms. They quickly arrived at the door of


    an


    office.


    Dexter knocked.


    Surprisingly, an elderly person with white hair sat inside elegantly. Her head was bent as she wrote with


    her reading sses on.


    She raised her head when she heard a noise and smiled. ¡°Dexter.¡±


    Josie was in a daze. Professor Mowry had aged in the few years Josie hadn¡¯t seen her.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    This was her professor when she was in school. Professor Mowry treated her well.


    Professor Mowry looked at Josie for a few seconds, and tears shed in her eyes before she reached


    out to hold Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s really you, silly girl. Why haven¡¯t you visited me? How heartless of you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s breathing was slightly rushed. No one knew what she was thinking of. Sheughed bitterly. ¡°I¡¯ve


    been busy with work.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve been busy. I heard you entered Russell Group but never thought you became Mrs.


    Russell.¡± Professor Mowry said pleasantly.


    Josie looked at Dexter. ¡°You know each other?¡±


    ¡°Professor Mowry is good friends with my professor.


    ¡°Dexter is outstanding. His professor often brags about him to me.¡±


    Josie was astonished. ¡°Did you study at Wavery University?¡±


    ¡°For a year before I transferred overseas.¡±


    It made sense and came as no surprise to her.

 Chapter 602

    Chapter 602


    Chapter 602 Don¡¯t Bring Up the Past


    Josie calmed down and rubbed her eyes, looking like the young girl she was in the older, Professor


    Mowry.¡±


    Professor Mowry shooed Dexter away. ¡°You can leave. I want to talk to Jo alone.¡±


    Dexter nced at Josic, asking if she was alright with it.


    Josie silently agreed.


    past. ¡°You¡¯ve gotten


    Professor Mowry asked tentatively, ¡°Does Dexter treat you well? If he doesn¡¯t, tell me. I¡¯ll take care of


    him. for you. After all, I¡¯m still friends with his professor.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. He treats me quite well, Professor Mowry¡±


    Professor Mowry sighed. ¡°I¡¯m quite surprised that you¡¯re together. I thought you would end up with that


    fellow.¡±


    Josie forced a smile. ¡°It was a disastrous rtionship. Some people can¡¯t stay together. I¡¯ve long


    recognized


    this.¡±


    Professor Mowry saw the changes in her. She felt terrible for Josie and didn¡¯t say a word anymore.


    They talked for a long time, and poor Dexter had to wait outside.


    His face was captivating, and he was quickly recognized. At that moment, many visitors to the school


    immediately recognized him.


    ¡°Dexter Russell? Why is Dexter Russell here?¡±


    ¡°Ah, oh my god. This is amazing.


    ¡°Huh? Who is he?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he handsome? Isn¡¯t he?! He¡¯s still considered alumni even if he transferred overseas after


    studying at Wavery University for a year.¡±


    ¡°Quickly take a picture.¡±


    In a few hours, these pictures were uploaded on social media and caused amotion. ¡®Dexter


    Russell seen at Wavery University¡¯s anniversary.


    In the pictures, he was holding a coat in his hands. He had an impressive demeanor as he leaned


    against the wall in a white shirt.


    But this wasn¡¯t important.


    Professor Mowry felt that Josie had be too quiet. Although Josie¡¯s eyes seemed warm and gentle,


    it felt like she was hiding something. Josie was so silent that it terrified Professor Mowry.


    She thought Josie resembled the man outside the door when she thought about it.


    Josie took the initiative to break the silence. ¡°Professor Mowry, has Morgane back in these years?¡±


    Professor Mowry was surprised Josie asked on her own ord. She shook her head. ¡°No. Just like


    you.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Josieughed lightly. ¡°What¡¯s between us has long passed. Nothing will change in the future. Professor


    Mowry, I love Dexter a lot now. I hope you won¡¯t bring up the past before him.¡±


    ¡°¡­ I understand.¡±


    The conversation ended.


    When Dexter saw Josie again, she had a rxed expression. He breathed a sigh of relief and led her


    back


    to the car.


    Because Dexter had been recognized, the university corridors were filled with people. Many who


    wanted to witness Dexter¡¯s good looks were gathered.


    In a corner far away, a man stood silently against a tree. His cold gaze watched as Dexter¡¯s car slowly


    left his line of sight.


    Dexter kept holding Josie¡¯s hand as if he had decided to never let go.


    Josie suddenly thought of something that had happened long ago as she looked at the school¡¯s


    landscape


    outside the window.


    In winter many years ago, Wavery was snowing, which was rare. At the time, Professor Mowry had just


    found out about Josie¡¯s rtionship with Morgan as she walked with Josie in the snow.


    Professor Mowry suddenly asked her, ¡°Do you really like that fellow?¡±


    Not a sound was heard. Snowkes were floating aimlessly in the air, like the uncertainties of life.


    Josie covered her flushed cheeks. She didn¡¯t know if it was because of the cold or if she was shy.


    Her answer was loud and clear. ¡°Yes. Very much.¡±


    A long time had passed since then.


    Dexter saw she was distracted, as though she had much on her mind. He suddenly thought of


    something. ¡°There aren¡¯t many people here. Take me around?¡±


    Josie froze. ¡°For what?¡±


    ¡°To tour your school.¡±

 Chapter 603

    Chapter 603


    Chapter 603 Did You Date?


    Dexter¡¯s hand was about to open the car door, and Josie pulled it away with a slightly stiff smile. ¡°Didn¡¯t


    you study here for a year? There¡¯s nothing much to see.¡±


    ¡°The anniversary celebration is lively. Let¡¯s soak it in. Dexter silently held her hand and led her out of


    the


    car.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    It seemed like Josie couldn¡¯t avoid it.


    Dexter was in a ck coat. He blocked most of the breeze as he stood before her. She felt a sense of


    security just by looking at his figure.


    As a petite woman in a vast world, it seemed like she was naturally protected as she hid behind the


    man.


    There was ake here with elm trees by the side. Red leaves floated in the air before falling into the


    dark green, crystal-clearke water.


    Further up front was the lively scene.


    Dexter was slightly distracted and suddenly asked, ¡°Did you date when you were in university?¡±


    Josie¡¯s pupils widened a little. She paused momentarily before answering, ¡°Why are you suddenly


    asking?¡±


    Dexter turned. ¡°I feel like such a greatndscape is perfect for university students to date.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know what he meant. She wrapped herself tightly in his arms and asked, ¡°What about you?


    Did you date in university?¡±


    Her intentions were obvious. Dexter turned and said dully, ¡°No. After finishing a year in Wavery, I


    applied to be an exchange student in Boston. The schoolwork overseas was difficult, and I spent most


    of my energy on my studies. I had no mood to date.¡±


    ¡°How wholesome. How can I not believe you?¡± Josie said half-jokingly. ¡°You¡¯re so handsome, Mr.


    Russell. You should have had many admirers.¡±


    She was a sweet-talker. Dexter squeezed her chin and said half warningly and half solemnly, ¡°You


    haven¡¯t answered my question.¡±


    Josie looked into his eyes and knew she couldn¡¯t avoid it. ¡°I dated someone for a year. After that, he


    went overseas to study, and we broke up.¡±


    This was true. Josie wasn¡¯t lying.


    Dexter immediately restrained his smile, and she added. ¡°I was young at the time, and I didn¡¯t know


    right. from wrong. It¡¯s in the past. Are you angry, Mr. Russell?¡±


    He let her hands go and only asked, ¡°Was he older than you?¡±


    Yes.¡±


    Dexter had never regretted any decisions but suddenly regretted going overseas when he heard it.


    ¡°Perhaps I could have met you earlier if I stayed back initially.¡±


    Josie broke intoughter when she heard it. She couldn¡¯t imagine dating Dexter in school. She was


    highly


    amused as she thought about it and gradually doubled over withughter.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡± Dexter was baffled that Josie wasughing. He held her arm so she wouldn¡¯t


    sit on the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯m thinking about how arrogant and cocky you would have been back then.¡± Josieughed harder


    when she thought of that scene.


    Dexter reached out and tickled her. ¡°Is that how you think of me, Josie Warren?!¡±


    Josie raised her hands and begged for mercy. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s my fault. The breeze is strong by theke.


    Let¡¯s head back.¡±


    Dexter pulled her up and was about to agree when a voice suddenly rang.


    ¡°Josic!¡±


    The two looked over simultaneously and were surprised to see a woman with a slim figure walk over


    with a smile. Josie only recognized the woman as she approached. ¡°Nancy?¡±


    Nancy had returned from Rivodia for this anniversary


    Nancy smiled as she walked over but was slightly surprised when she saw the man next to Josie. ¡°This


    is¡­¡±


    Josie and Dexter looked at each other. ¡°My husband, Dexter Russell. Dex, this is my schoolmate,


    Nancy


    Stewart.¡±

 Chapter 604

    Chapter 604


    Chapter 604 No Longer Matters


    Dexter enjoyed hearing the words ¡®my husband.


    He extended his hand. ¡°Hello, Nancy.¡±


    Nancy¡¯s gaze became very thoughtful as she looked closely at the two. ¡°What a perfect couple you are,


    Mr. and Mrs. Russell. You¡¯re the envy of everyone as you stroll on the school grounds together.¡±


    Nancy had found out earlier that Josie was married, but she didn¡¯t know who Josie¡¯s husband was.


    Now, she had found out through the trending searches, but it was different to see them personally.


    Dexter had at more imposing demeanor than in the pictures.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie was joyful, but her heart was suspended mid-air, and her smile was unnatural. ¡°Nancy, when did


    yout return to Wavery? Let¡¯s go out for a meal. My treat.¡±


    ¡°Your treat? Won¡¯t you join us, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°Since you¡¯re Jo¡¯s friend, I¡¯ll naturally join if invited.¡±


    Nancy raised her brows and smiled sweetly at Josie. Nancy was hinting, what a great honor.


    ¡°I came back yesterday. I wanted to look for you but thought you would be busy, so I didn¡¯t disturb you.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°How can that be?¡±


    Dexter released Josie¡¯s hand and stepped to the side a little. ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ll wait for you in the car.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t answer, and Nancy hugged her arm. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll take your wife away, Mr.


    Russell?¡±


    Dexter smiled lightly. ¡°She¡¯ll return on her own.¡±


    There was absolute trust in his expression.


    Josie looked away after the man got into the car, and Nancy finally showed signs of nervousness.


    ¡°Does he really treat you well?¡±


    Josie was exasperated. ¡°Why does everyone like to ask me this?¡±


    The two slowly walked side by side at thekeside. Nancy said, ¡°I didn¡¯te alone today.¡±


    Josie¡¯s footsteps froze slightly. As they looked at each other, Josie understood what Nancy meant.


    ¡°He¡¯s here today. Do you want to see him?¡±


    The two had gotten to know each other because of Morgan. Nancy was his ex-girlfriend. After Morgan


    went overseas, he lost contact with everyone in the country. Meanwhile, the two women got closer.


    Josie looked away. ¡°I¡¯ve seen him. There¡¯s no need to meet again.


    ¡°I¡¯m over it, but I don¡¯t know how you feel.¡±


    Josie was frustrated. ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m still not over him? I¡¯ve already moved on when he decided to


    leave


    me.¡±


    Nancy furrowed her brows. ¡°But from what I know, Morgan¡¯s mother came looking for you back then.


    You


    broke up partly because of her intervention.¡±


    ¡°If two people love each other, do these obstacles even matter? I can only say certain people weren¡¯t


    determined enough.¡±


    ¡°What if¡­. he had his reasons at the time?¡±


    Josie looked at her and answered thoughtfully, ¡°Nancy, all this no longer matters.¡±


    Nancy was dumbstruck.


    When Josie returned to the car, Dexter was working on hisptop. He held her hands. ¡°Are you cold?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart was suspended in mid-air. It only rxed when she saw him. She shook her head. ¡°Are


    we returning to Mason Garden?¡±


    ¡°I just received news that I must attend a meeting at Russell Group. Should I ask Moses to send you


    home?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°No need. I¡¯lle with you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved. ¡°Alright.¡±


    He handed her a stack of information. ¡°We still have fifteen minutes. Look at as much information as


    you can. Just get a rough idea of it.¡±


    Josie flipped through it casually. The papers were densely filled with numbers. Even reading them


    would be tough, let alone getting a rough idea.


    ¡°Am I attending too?¡±


    Dexter had received a few calls from Larry on his cell phone.


    ¡°What do you think about being my assistant?¡± He raised his brows.


    ¡°Huh?¡±

 Chapter 605

    Chapter 605


    Chapter 605 Love Rivalry


    During their shortmute, Dexter briefly exined the purpose of the meeting to Josie in a clear and


    easy-to-understand manner.


    The other party was a foreign venture capital firm that hade to negotiate with the Russell Group.


    The opposing party turned out to be a foreign venture capitalpany visiting for negotiations with the


    Russell Group. The business andmerce media were present because of the current intense


    situation. in the capital market, where a capital victory was crucial to boost morale.


    Therefore, the meeting carried immense importance-any slight errors or mistakes were uneptable.


    Despite herck of knowledge of business, Dexter¡¯s decision to bring Josie along was uncalled for.


    Upon their arrival at the venue, all the Russell Group employees were startled. ¡°Mr. Russell, this is¡­¡±


    Josie wore a subtle makeup look, entuating her youthful features and giving her the appearance of


    a teenager. Yet, everyone was cognizant that she was Mrs. Russell.


    Dexter¡¯s demeanor turned serious. ¡°She¡¯ll be apanying meter.¡±


    Why would he bring Josie to such a pivotal meeting, who had little understanding of business?


    Josie¡¯s apprehension mirrored in her eyes, ¡°But, I¡­¡±


    Larry caught sight of Dexter and quickly walked up, leaning in to whisper something in his ear. In an


    instant, Dexter¡¯s gaze shifted upward.


    At that very moment, the representative from the capital party confidently strutted towards them.


    Josie¡¯s eyes instinctively darted toward the person, her pupils dting when she caught sight of his


    figure.


    The sunlight streaming through the window cast an aura of solemnity upon the man in formal attire. He


    wore gold-rimmed sses and casually examined Josie.


    Little did Josie know that she would bump into Morgan!


    Just as she was starting to feel relieved about escaping the school anniversary celebration, life threw


    her at curveball by unexpectedly running into an old acquaintance in this unassuming setting.


    Dexter noticed Morgan¡¯s scrutinizing gaze and smirked, extending his hand. ¡°After all this time, I finally


    get to see the true face of the man pulling the strings.¡±


    Morgan snapped back to reality and locked eyes with him. ¡°Well, thepany we started as a hobby


    years ago pales inparison to Russell Group.¡±


    In truth, Morgan¡¯spany had been quite impressive; otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t have been worthy of


    Dexter personally attending the negotiation.


    Larry promptly handed over a document with Morgan¡¯s name prominently printed and visible on the


    coyer, catching Dexter¡¯s attention.


    He narrowed his eyes and nced to his side. Josie seemed lost in her own thoughts.


    Gripping a piece of paper, Dexter maintained aposed facade. ¡°This way in, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    He clutched the unauthorized regtions of Morgan¡¯spany, intending to employ themter.


    Josie reluctantly sat next to Dexter while everyone else entered the room.


    After carefully perusing the documents, Josie couldn¡¯t help but be perplexed by the paradoxical nature


    of the regtions. At the same time, she was impressed with Dexter¡¯s profound understanding of


    internationalw.


    At first nce, these regtions and uses seemed uplicated. Still, they possessed a hidden.


    those whocked the necessary caution and familiarity with the intricacies of thew and regtions.


    trap


    On the other hand, the moment Josie stepped onto the scene, the media¡¯s attention was immediately


    ensnared.


    Oh wow! Mrs. Russell is here! Is this going to be her debut in the business world?


    Dexter nced at Morgan as he lovingly held Josie¡¯s hand with a warm smile gracing his lips. ¡°Please


    excuse the attention. Today, my assistant happens to be my wife as well.¡±


    for


    Caught up in the unexpected revtion, the room full of reporters and corporate personnel buzzed with


    excitement.


    was caught off guard by the news. She swiftly cast a sidelong nce at Dexter. ording to him, she


    had the freedom to actively participate in any significant events rted to the Russell Group!


    Their presence together stirred up quite a buzz among the crowd.


    By pure chance, the financial media attending the meeting captured the coveted photos that


    entertainment reporters had desperately hoped for.


    This news was undoubtedly more valuable and piqued greater interest than any juicy scandal or gossip


    in showbiz.


    Morgan maintained aposed demeanor, seated calmly on the sidelines with a faint smile, ¡°Looks


    like Mr. Russell is in a great mood.¡±


    In fact, the person initially designated to negotiate with Dexter was meant to be someone else.


    However, upon their arrival in the country, the representative of the Russell Group abruptly summoned


    them under the guise of a round-table discussion aimed at fostering trust, friendship, and economic and


    commercial exchanges..


    Why were they suddenly subjected to an impromptu interrogation in such a casual andst-minute


    manner?


    Consequently, Morgan had no alternative but to step in and assume the role of proxy and chair for the


    eleventh-hour meeting.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    In an intriguing twist of fate, Dexter benefitted from the circumstances. And it never urred to Dexter


    that, of all people, he would face off against Morgan.


    Under Morgan¡¯s unwavering tender gaze, Josie felt like sitting on pins and needles.

 Chapter 606

    Chapter 606


    Morgan found himself at a clear disadvantage after falling into Dexter¡¯s trap.


    Chapter 606 Look Like an Old Acquaintance


    Deep down, he knew this negotiation was set to end unfavorably.


    Morgan proposed, hoping to salvage the situation, ¡°Mr. Russell, let¡¯s find a middle ground here. You


    take six, and we¡¯ll settle for four. How about that?¡±


    Dexter pushed the documents across the table with a smirk. ¡°You know¡­ there are countless


    vulnerabilities in your supply chain that I can exploit.¡±


    Subsequently, Dexter¡¯s intimidation backed Morgan into a corner, rendering no room for negotiation.


    Josie lowered her head, confused and frustrated, as she took notes. She couldn¡¯t help but think that


    Dexter was ruthless and cunning.


    Josie¡¯s thoughts about Dexter were confirmed by his subsequent actions-he wasn¡¯t just ruthless but


    went


    to extremes.


    Without hesitation, he used his power to impose the terms. He even brought up the idea of


    cooperation, ¡°Let¡¯s consider profit sharing. I¡¯ll take eight, and you¡¯ll take two.¡±


    A heavy silence permeated the room.


    Josie nced at the man beside her. He was calm and collected as if they were engaged in a casual


    chitchat.


    Morgan pressed his lips together, inwardly frustrated by theck of options to counter Dexter¡¯s


    unreasonable demand.


    Then, he turned, fixed his gaze on Josie, and blurted, ¡°Mrs. Russell, you look a lot like someone I used


    to know.¡±


    Josie was taken aback, furrowing her brows at Morgan.


    Has he gone nuts? What is he trying to do?


    ncing at her, Dexter swooped in and said, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s just a coincidence that she and your


    acquaintance look alike.¡±


    ¡°Who knows,¡± Morgan replied with a meaningful smile. ¡°Why not ask Mrs. Russell if she recognizes


    me?¡±


    Amid the bustling media presence and Dexter by her side, Josie hesitated to admit she knew Morgan.


    Acting on pure instinct, she leaned over and grabbed Dexter¡¯s hand that was resting on the table,


    silently expressing her vulnerability.


    The room filled with disapproving frowns.


    Dexter looked at Josie, and she shook her head in response, indicating she hadn¡¯t made his


    acquaintance.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    before.


    Upon witnessing Josie¡¯s response, Morgan instantly sported a triumphant and sarcastic smirk.


    Dexter was caught off guard, his expression changing from disbelief to a bitter smile.


    He had just lost the upper hand in this negotiation.


    Standing on the sidelines and witnessing Josie¡¯s reaction. Larry closed his eyes and sighed in defeat.


    In the room, everyone was well aware of how things were unfolding, except for one person who was


    also the culprit for the fallout.


    Josie blinked, her innocent and puzzled gaze fixed on Dexter.


    Dexter slowly withdrew his smile and asked in a gentle tone, ¡°Are you keeping up with the minutes?¡±


    Josie replied, hopeful for a turning point, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m following. Please continue.¡±


    Yet, the meeting hade to a sudden halt.


    Dexter took the me upon himself, questioning his wit, and regretted involving Josie in the meeting.


    He had brought her into the fray, only to have her presence sabotage him at a critical moment.


    Morgan picked up on the shift in Dexter¡¯s demeanor as he uttered, ¡°Mr. Russell, it seems that even


    Mrs. Russell deems your demands excessive.¡±


    In essence, he meant. ¡®Even your closest ally doesn¡¯t see things the way you do. The conditions you¡¯ve


    presented are simply unreasonable.


    Morgan had posed a challenging defense.


    Dexter, a seasoned yer in the business world, had never encountered such backstabbing from his


    counterpart before. He found no more cards to y in response to the opponent¡¯s move.


    However, Morgan offered some leniency to Russell Group. ¡°We can ept your proposal on the


    condition¡± that Russell Group gives hundred percent participation and cooperation in our future


    endeavor.¡±


    Instead of being the ones taking advantage of others, Russell Group now found themselves on the


    receiving end. While they acquired the funds, they also incurred a sense of indebtedness.


    Morgan¡¯s intention was clear, I¡¯m letting you off the hook for now, but in the future, you must fulfill your


    obligations if I need something!


    The morale within Russell Group diminished as everyone recognized their impending defeat.


    However, Dexter possessed unwavering resolve. Even in the face of betrayal, he managed to maintain


    a smile and replied, ¡°Certainly.¡±


    He never anticipated being at the mercy of Morgan. A sense of continual frustration and anger surged


    within him.


    Meanwhile, Josie struggled to grasp the shifting dynamics as it appeared that Dexter still emerged.


    victorious. Naively, she assumed her recent actions had no impact on the ongoing negotiation..


    Throughout the meeting, Dexter maintained a severe and stoic demeanor.

 Chapter 607

    Chapter 607


    Chapter 607 Old Things


    Josie was puzzled and cautiously reached out to hold his hand. ¡°Wha¡­ What¡¯s wrong.


    Prompted by Josie, Dexter cast a quick nce at the woman by his side. Her clear. gaze reflected


    innocence and ack of awareness regarding the harsher realities of human nature.


    With an abrupt change in demeanor, he uttered, ¡°Stop talking to me from now on.¡±


    Startled by his sudden shift in attitude, Josie jolted back her arm. A perplexing sense of resentment


    swelled within her.


    Meanwhile, Dexter was followed by a group of individuals as they exited the meeting room.


    Larry couldn¡¯t bear to see her clueless and defeated look; he pulled Josie aside and exined, ¡°Don¡¯t


    me Mr. Russell. If anyone else had done what you just did, and if it were me that did it, I would have


    been dead by now.¡±


    Josie blinked, confused and startled, ¡°That bad?¡±


    Out of courtesy and adhering to business etiquette, Dexter escorted Morgan to the exit.


    As the cold air lingered outside, Morgan nonchntly epted a scarf from his assistant, ¡°Well then,


    Mr. Russell, we shall excuse ourselves now. Until next time.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s impatience was evident as he emitted an intense frustration.


    He was about to walk away when his attention was suddenly drawn to the scarf in Morgan¡¯s. hands. In


    an instant, a surge of anger filled the air.


    To his shock, the scarf bore the initial Jo.


    Morgan sensed a subtle change in the atmosphere and paused in his movement. ¡°Do you also. happen


    to fancy this scarf, Mr. Russell? I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t give it to you. It was a gift from an old friend.¡±


    The two men locked eyes from afar, their mutual animosity tangible.


    ¡°Not at all. I don¡¯t fancy outdated things-I only appreciate what¡¯s current.¡±


    Morgan turned and walked away, ¡°Well, old things have their own charm.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie¡¯s scalp tingled as Larry briefed her on the situation.


    Dexter had brought her to this event to showcase her status. Still, she unknowingly caused a


    catastrophic disaster for Russell Group.


    It was her fault. She shouldn¡¯t have let Morgan get to her.


    Now, the resulting public pressure would all fall on Dexter.


    Josie pushed open the door and strutted into the CEO¡¯s office.


    The room was dimly lit, with a lingering scent of cigarettes. Dexter stood silhouetted against. the light,


    emanating amanding presence.


    Between his slender fingertips, a hint of crimson lingered.


    Josie approached him silently on the plush carpet. Dexter wasn¡¯t surprised by her visit.


    She murmured apologetically, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Dex. I didn¡¯t know the unintended consequences of my


    actions would be so significant.¡±


    She had no intention of aiding Morgan in any manner. Her primary goal was to alleviate. potential


    burdens on Dexter in the near future.


    any


    However, she failed to consider one critical factor. With countless unscrupulous media outlets


    present at the event, even the slightest detail or action could capture their interest and be magnified.


    Little did she know, her slight mishap had given Morgan a chance to strike, inflicting a fatal blow to


    Dexter and Russell Group.


    Dexter¡¯s silence lingered, extending the tension in the air. He took a final drag of his cigarette, stubbing


    it out before finally meeting her gaze.


    ¡°Did you, for a moment, feel sorry for Morgan?¡±


    Conflicting emotions surged within Josie, and a twinge of fear flickered in her eyes.


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t¡­ Why would I feel sorry for him? I don¡¯t even know him.¡±


    Josie quickly brushed off his probing question, assuming Dexter hadn¡¯t uncovered Morgan¡¯s true


    identity and their scandalous rtionship in the past.


    But the next instant, she was pressed against the floor-to-ceiling window.


    Pinning Josie¡¯s wrists above her head, Dexter¡¯s voice was cold and biting as he reproached, ¡°You don¡¯t


    know him? I saw the letters Jo¡¯ embroidered on his scarf. Do you not recognize it?¡±


    Josie winced, feeling the pain in her wrists. ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    What scarf? She couldn¡¯t recall anything about it.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    To prevent the news of Josie¡¯s unexpected plea for mercy on Morgan¡¯s behalf during the recent


    negotiation from spreading to the public, Dexter instructed Larry to provide marypensation to


    all media outlets to ensure their silence.


    He instructed them to title it as ¡®Dexter Russell and wife lovingly show up at an official event. That alone


    should suffice to give the media what they wanted.


    Otherwise, it would be fodder for gossip.

 Chapter 608

    Chapter 608


    Chapter 608 No Need to Feel Sorry


    Despite their attempts to keep the incident under wraps, today¡¯s events had undeniably urred.


    Dexter stared intently at Josic, ¡°Jo, there¡¯s no need to lie to me.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    His piercing stare caused Josie to furrow her brows, quickly realizing he was aware¡­


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯re ruthless. Even if it wasn¡¯t Morgan, I would have done the same thing,¡± Josie quickly


    exined, trying to pacify Dexter¡¯s anger. ¡°It wasn¡¯t because of him¡­¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but let out a frustratedugh. His voice turned hoarse as he spoke, ¡°Even if it


    wasn¡¯t Morgan, you should always stand by my side. Showing sympathy to the enemy is the dumbest


    thing to do!¡±


    Josie¡¯s action rendered him speechless beyond words!


    Josie may not have been an expert in business or corporate meetings. Still, she should have had the


    simplemon sense to grasp what was appropriate and expected of her in such a serious and formal


    environment. Regardless of her business knowledge or whether she agreed with his perspective, she


    should have been willing to show respect for his opinion.


    Given that Morgan was representing a foreign venture capital firm, how could Josie let outsiders exploit


    their own people?


    Or maybe she never had any intentions of supporting Dexter at all, refusing to align with him under any


    circumstances.


    Feeling humiliated, Josie tried to break free of his captive, but her effort was in vain.


    She felt wronged by his usation, ¡°So, what do you expect me to do? You¡¯re the one who brought me


    into this¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s anger surged, his disappointmentcing the words that followed, ¡°I brought you. here because


    I wanted the world to see your value!¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless, her body trembling. She thought he did that simply to¡­ dere that


    she was his wife.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Can you let go of me first so we can discuss this calmly?¡±


    ¡°Jo, you don¡¯t need to burden yourself with guilt.¡±


    Josie blinked, puzzled by his words.


    Dexter fixed his gaze on her, his words cutting through the air. ¡°You don¡¯t need to feel guilty about this.


    Business isn¡¯t about fairness. Show the world what you¡¯re capable of. Sympathy has no ce in the


    business realm. You must remember no one will ever go easy on you just because you¡¯re vulnerable or


    inexperienced!¡±


    Josie admitted she had made a mistake, despite the reprimand; however, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a


    sense of injustice.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze shifted to the lively cityscape outside the floor-to-ceiling window, a defeated chuckle


    escaping his lips.


    A sense of helplessness washed over Dexter as he delicately traced his fingers along her arms.


    Knowing his intentions, Josie instinctively recoiled, ¡°This is your office¡­¡±


    She couldn¡¯t fathom how the conversation had taken this unexpected turn.


    Dexter firmly held her shoulders, leaning closer to her ear, his voice filled with insinuation, ¡°Do you think


    those people over there can see us?¡±


    Across from the Russell Group building, another office stood illuminated. If they happened to look in


    their direction, they would witness an explicit scene.


    If Dexter dared to take it a step further, there would be no hiding from prying eyes¡­


    Not to mention that Josie had no intention of engaging in such shameful acts with him. T


    Josie put up a fierce struggle. ¡°No, don¡¯t do this. I don¡¯t want to.¡±


    Dexter effortlessly restrained her with strength and forcefully kissed and sucked her lips. Josie tensed


    up, worried that the people in the building across would witness their intimate


    encounter.


    ¡°You¡¯ve ruined my grand n and put Russell Group to shame. Aren¡¯t you supposed to make it up to


    me?¡±


    Dexter unbuttoned her cor, his voice bing tender. ¡°Hmm? This isn¡¯t how things are done in the


    business world, Jo.¡±


    Josie was abashed. How could she still respond to this man¡¯s seduction and follow his lead. after what


    happened¡­


    Suddenly, she looked away, struggling to catch her breath. ¡°I already said I don¡¯t want to!¡±


    However, Dexter seemed unaffected by her response and whispered, ¡°Then, how will you make it up to


    me? How about having a child or multiple of them? I¡¯ll take good care of them.


    In the future, the Russell Group will be theirs.¡±

 Chapter 609

    Chapter 609


    Chapter 609 It¡¯s Already in the Past


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Annoyed by his tone, Josie averted her eyes.


    ¡°How long have you known him?¡± he probed.


    ¡°He was ¡­¡± Josie felt an intense embarrassment under his scrutinizing gaze, leaving her unable to


    speak.


    ¡°Was what?¡± Dexter persisted, determined to hear her


    ¡°He was my first love.¡±


    response.


    The moment Josie uttered the words ¡®first love, the tension radiating from Dexter instantly eased.


    However, anger and jealousy swiftly welled up inside him, noticeable in his elerated breathing.


    ¡°So, he¡¯s the senior¡­ who came back for you?¡± Dexter elongated his words.


    Josie was forced to meet his gaze, her eyes shimmering with tears. ¡°No, I don¡¯t know why he suddenly


    came back. Dexter, you can¡¯t do this to me.¡±


    He pulled down her top, exposing a significant portion of her delicate and curvaceous breasts in the


    mirror. If anyone were toe out from the building across, they would see her in such a vulnerable


    state.


    However, Dexter refused to let go; his voice tinged with mocking praise, ¡°But you are irresistibly


    alluring.¡±


    Josie endured the humiliation and couldn¡¯t resist retaliating, ¡°Don¡¯t make it sound like you¡¯re perfect! I


    was only gone for a few days, and you had sex with another woman. What does that say?¡±


    The two were like wounded animals, attacking each other¡¯s most sensitive vulnerabilities.


    As soon as the words left her mouth, Josie instantly regretted it. She bit her lip, feeling a profound


    sense of injustice.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t we seen the video? Are you still jealous?¡± Dexter pinched her chin upon hearing her words.


    ¡°You just switched sides in front of the media, abandoning your husband for your ex- boyfriend.¡±


    It appeared that they were determined to assign me to the other.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you it was an ident,¡± Josie¡¯s voice softened.


    ¡°You¡¯re so heartless and cruel to your own husband¡­¡± Dexter lowered his head to her neck, leaving a


    visible love bite. With a dangerously low voice, he whispered, ¡°Do you still have feelings for him?¡±


    He was determined to get an answer from her today.


    Josic, feeling drained by his relentless questioning and torment, ¡°It¡¯s been four years! Gosh, why would


    I still be hung up on him? He¡¯s not even the most sought-after bachelor out


    there!¡±


    Her answer elicitedughter from Dexter. His anger faded slightly, ¡°Well, but I am.¡±


    He kissed her passionately, gradually bing more unrestrained in his actions.


    Josie squirmed and pushed him away. ¡°You smell like cigarettes. I hate it¡­¡±


    At that moment, Dexter realized his anger had momentarily gotten the best of him, leading him to lose


    control and light up another cigarette.


    Dexter¡¯s voice turned hypnotic as he leaned in, asking, ¡°Tell me, do you love me or him?¡±


    Josie reluctantly tilted her head, feeling exasperated by his childish behavior.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you answer me?¡± he pressed.


    Josie sighed softly and replied, ¡°Of course, it¡¯s you. I¡¯ve long moved on from Morgan, Dex.¡±


    ¡°He seems to think otherwise, proudly wearing that scarf, Dexter sneered. ¡°You really have a thing for


    knitting, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie reached her breaking point. As Dexter¡¯s hand ventured downward, she quickly interjected, ¡°I


    promise, I¡¯ll stop knitting. Just please¡­¡±


    Dexter showed no intention of backing down from his intentions.


    Seeing people exiting the meeting room from the building across, Josie buried her head. She sought


    refuge in the man¡¯s embrace, pleading. ¡°Carry me inside¡­¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t budge.


    Anxiety surged within her, ¡°Dex!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just do it right here.¡±


    No way! What a jerk!


    Anxious tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes. Her hair was tousled, sticking to her face, and her

 Chapter 610

    Chapter 610


    Chapter 610 Waiting All Night


    Dexter wrapped his arms around her, offering reassurance in his gentle voice, ¡°I lied. This tinted floor-


    to-ceiling window is custom-made in London. We can see outside while. maintaining our privacy. It¡¯s all


    good now. Don¡¯t worry, okay?¡±


    Feeling Josie¡¯s trembling body, intense remorse immediately washed over him.


    Josie leaned against Dexter listlessly and scolded him. ¡°You were so close to¡­¡±


    He had nearly treated her as a mere outlet for his sexual desires, like a disposable object to be used


    without a second thought!


    Now back to hisposed self, Dexter smoothed her hair and sternly warned, ¡°If you behave and do


    as I say, I won¡¯t embarrass you again.¡±


    After a long pause, Josie looked up. ¡°Let¡¯s forget about the past. Neither of us should bring it up again,


    okay?¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Dexter agreed, carrying her into his private lounge. Take a rest here.¡±


    Josie kept her eyes closed the entire time.


    Dexter made space for her and turned away, but his eyes reflected a sense of gloom as het angrily


    flicked his lighter on his desk. D


    After a brief pause, he dialed a number on his phone. ¡°Look into the Bastille family and get back to me.¡±


    Larry, who was just outside his office, wondered why Dexter didn¡¯t call him in and instead. opted for a


    phone call.


    ¡°Sure thing. I¡¯ll get right on it.¡±


    Rubbing his temples, Dexter couldn¡¯t shake off the image of Morgan wearing the scarf that Josie had


    knitted. His anger still simmered within him.


    In frustration, he kicked the chair, creating a loud noise in the room.


    Josie mustered her strength and reached for her phone on the floor. It had identally fallen during her


    heated exchange with Dexter, resulting in a shattered screen.


    Fortunately, it still functioned.


    Sitting on the floor, wrapped in a nket, she typed a message on her phone, ¡®Hey, Laura, can you


    help me arrange a meeting with Dr. Lu? I need to talk to him.


    Looking up, she couldn¡¯t help but feel small under the vast night sky that stretched endlessly above the


    city.


    Josie spent the entire night in Dexter¡¯s private lounge. When she emerged, Dexter was nowhere to be


    found. Larry had prepared fresh clothes and a delightful breakfast waiting for her. ¡°Good morning, Mrs.


    Russell. Mr. Russell wanted me to remind you to have breakfast after you change.¡±


    Josie nced at the clothes briefly and replied, ¡°Sure.¡±


    The clothes fit perfectly, entuating her figure. Josie let her hair down, partially concealing the


    bruises of his love bites.


    Larry silently marveled at Josie¡¯s beauty, which was enchanting yet unassuming, emanating a natural


    charm. No matter how often he saw her, he couldn¡¯t help but think Josie was truly stunning.


    When she and Dexter stood together, they looked like the epitome of a perfect couple!


    Josie exited the Russell Group building and strolled a short distance when she suddenly heard a honk


    from a sleek ck Porsche, startling her.


    Morgan¡¯s familiar face emerged as the window gradually rolled down, sporting his trademark gold-


    rimmed sses. With one hand casually resting on the steering wheel, he greeted her with a simple,


    ¡°Hey, Josie.¡±


    Josie froze in ce, meeting his gaze head-on.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    In her eyes, a flicker of fatigue reced the anticipated excitement of a long-awaited


    reunion.


    ¡°How long have you been waiting for me here?¡± she asked.


    Josie settled into the passenger seat and noticed a breakfast container beside her, knowing it was


    intended for her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you all night,¡± Morgan spoke with a monotone voice, masking the deep.


    mncholy that had engulfed him as he anxiously anticipated their previous night¡¯s reunion.


    Josie hesitated briefly, avoiding direct eye contact with him. C)

 Chapter 611

    Chapter 611


    Chapter 611 Waiting for Her Divorce


    Morgan handed Josie the neatly packaged breakfast, a tinge of remorse in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for what


    happened yesterday.¡±


    A small chuckle escaped her lips when she sneered, ¡°About what?¡±


    Morgan¡¯s frown deepened at her distant demeanor.


    ¡°I admit I took advantage of your soft spot to gain the upper hand over Dexter at yesterday¡¯s meeting.


    It¡¯s been a while since west met, and I used our reunion to my advantage. I¡¯m really sorry for that.¡±


    He could have spared her from all of it, but he didn¡¯t.


    Sipping the warm coffee, which warmed her heart and stomach, Josie responded with a snicker tinged.


    with sarcasm, ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m used to it anyway.¡±


    Her casual words couldn¡¯t mask the underlying sense of loneliness and sorrow.


    Morgan frowned at her reply. ¡°Josie, I didn¡¯t have much of a choice.¡±


    Given the circumstances, he had no other option.


    Josie smiled, her inner beauty radiating. ¡°No need to apologize to me. You know the stakes in the


    business world. I don¡¯t need to say much, but you¡¯re well aware of Dexter¡¯s nature. He doesn¡¯t take


    losses lightly. So, brace yourself for his retaliation.¡±


    She warned Morgan of his potential reality in a lighthearted tone.


    Thetter gazed at her, realizing that the Josie in front of him had transformed into a fierce and resilient


    entity, akin to a rose with thorns, captivating and unyielding.


    It was rumored that Dexter was indeed nning to take action against the Bastille family. However,


    Morgan showed no signs of fear. ¡°Trust me, the Bastille Group is just as formidable as the Russell


    Group. I just need some time, and I¡¯ll make sure Dexter won¡¯t be able to bring me down.¡±


    Josie casually ced the breakfast back in its original position. ¡°Hmm, I believe you.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    She had always known that Morgan was intelligent and aplished. But now, everything has


    changed. In her heart, Morgan was no longer the person she had once admired.


    ¡°The scarf I gave you, I remember seeing it discarded in the trash. So, I¡¯m curious, why did you


    suddenly pretend to be sentimental and wear it before Dexter?¡± Josie¡¯s words carried a sense of


    mncholy.


    The past was still etched vividly in Josie¡¯s mind.


    After the fallout with Morgan, they had stubbornly drawn distinct boundaries. As she passed the trash


    bin, she caught sight of the scarf she had once knitted for him.


    ¡°You misunderstood me back then,¡± Morgan exined, the sunlight streaming through the car window,


    casting a golden glow on his cufflinks, exuding an air of luxury.


    He continued, ¡°Even if I were to exin, you wouldn¡¯t believe me. But I hope you understand that what


    happened back then wasn¡¯t my intention.¡±


    The morning light gently kissed her face, revealing a coffee stain on her lips.


    Morgan¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and he reached out to wipe it away.


    Josie evaded his touch.


    His arm froze momentarily, but he wasn¡¯t embarrassed. Morgan retrieved a tissue and gave it to her.


    Josie declined. She asked, sounding rather awkward, ¡°Why did youe back?¡±


    A momentary flicker of hesitation disyed in Morgan¡¯s eyes as he smiled. Since Josie had asked, he


    feltpelled to tell her the truth..


    Both of them were perceptive adults and understood the underlying implications of their words.


    Morgan tightened his grip on the tissue. ¡°Because of you.¡±


    Josie was taken aback, realizing his answer was as straightforward as it sounded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see the woman I love going with another man. I want to pursue you again.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s honesty surprised her.


    Josie was no fool. She thought Morgan was delusional, suddenly proiming his feelings for her after


    everything that had happened between them, ¡°Do you even know what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    ¡°I want us to be together like how we used to. I¡¯m confident I can provide you better care than Dexter.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s voice held a solemn yet yful undertone, his heart racing in the morning light.


    However, Josie¡¯s expression grew colder, and her anger intensified.


    ¡°I know you resent and hold me ountable in your heart, but it¡¯s okay. I can wait for you to divorce


    and for us to fall in love again. I¡¯m telling you my true feelings now, but I¡¯m not expecting an immediate


    response.¡±

 Chapter 612

    Chapter 612


    Chapter 612 Your Love Terrifies Me


    Morgan lightly tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. ¡°After all these years, I¡¯vee to realize that


    my feelings for you are more determined and profound than any I¡¯ve experienced with other women.


    Will you please consider giving me another chance?¡±


    Unlike Dexter, whose possessiveness and need for control prevented any space for others to bond with


    Josie, Morgan¡¯s attitude bore more flexibility. He was open to the possibility of Josie being with


    someone else while patiently waiting for her to change her mind.


    However, at that moment. Josie found herself unable to respond.


    Meanwhile, Morgan remainedposed, sharing his thoughts without sumbing to anxiety.


    ¡°Did I scare you? I apologize if I did,¡± Morgan said, his toneced with genuine concern.


    Josie shook her head, a hint of frustration mingling with herughter. ¡°Tell me, what is it about me that


    you like?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t believe the man who had once walked away from her could still hold love in his heart.


    Morgan tapped the steering wheel again, deep in thought for a moment. I¡¯m drawn to your purity¡±


    ¡°My purity?¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curved into a cold sneer. ¡°My purity? Unfortunately, that ship sailed long ago. The Josie


    standing before you is a woman driven by material gain, willing to trade in her marriage for it.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s gaze locked onto hers. ¡°That¡¯s not true.


    ¡°Are you sure? Let me enlighten you. After you left, my father suffered a severe car ident. I


    endured. hardships to make ends meet: I¡¯m no longer the naive girl who only fantasized about love.


    Nobody can fool me anymore. Especially you of all people!¡±


    As Josie uttered those words, fueled by anger and pain, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of


    satisfaction when she saw the helpless expression on Morgan¡¯s face.


    ¡°I¡¯m not worthy of your love. Let alone being someone else¡¯s wife, if I were single, I still wouldn¡¯t choose


    to be with you.


    With those words, Josie decisively severed and crushed any budding affection from Morgan.


    Morgan¡¯s expression changed, taken aback by her blunt rejection.


    ¡°Am I not on the same level as him? The Bastille family¡¯s wealth can match that of the Russells! If I


    wanted to, Dexter would pale inparison if I took control of the Bastille Group! It¡¯s funny how Dexter


    Russell, known for hispetence, had to rely on you to salvage his business!¡±


    ¡°Yes! You¡¯re intelligent and remarkable. It¡¯s precisely because of these qualities that I feel undeserving


    of you,¡± Josie¡¯s voice rose in response.


    ¡°Then why did you choose Dexter?¡±


    Morgan couldn¡¯t fathom why Josie chose Dexter over him, considering that Dexter was not the person


    that society hadrgely heralded as outstanding.


    Josie took a deep breath inside the car, her emotions swirling in the confined space.


    ¡°I¡¯m not that exceptional, and neither is he. But no matter how much he hurts me, he will never


    abandon. me. Morgan, your love terrifies me. Even if Dexter isn¡¯t perfect, I still wish him well.¡±


    Ironically through their conversation, Josie hade to terms with the intense and potentially


    scandalous. incident from the previous night at Dexter¡¯s office.


    All Josie could recall were Dexter¡¯s awkwardness, cunningness, brutality, and childishness.


    He had ws, but she knew all his dark qualities stemmed from his deep concern and love for her.


    Morgan narrowed his eyes and asked, ¡°Can you see yourself with him forever?¡±


    Forever? Josieughed sarcastically, avoiding a direct answer to the question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to keep you around, Morgan. I¡¯m not a good person and not worthy of your time and


    efforts.¡±


    Morgan quickly responded, ¡°I don¡¯t believe that.¡±


    ¡°Many people out there think poorly of me.¡±


    ¡°But I knew you before all the rumors and gossip.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s response was swift, catching Josie slightly off guard.


    ¡°Go back and get some rest. I didn¡¯te here today to burden you with my love confession.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Morgan had no intention of giving up. He proceeded to unlock the car¡¯s central control, ready to


    embark on his journey.


    Today, he opted for a more rxed attire, dressed casuallypared to the formal attire he wore


    yesterday. His demeanor exuded a sense of steadfastriess and unwavering determination as he


    basked in the soft morning light.

 Chapter 613

    Chapter 613


    Chapter 613 Repeating Mistakes for Josie


    Josie¡¯s heart twinged at the usibility that she could have fallen for the spirited Morgan if she hadn¡¯t


    met. the charismatic Dexter.


    But s¡­ fate had brought Dexter to her, and she loved him.


    Morgan was a proud man, yet he wasn¡¯t ashamed or affected for pouring out his feelings for Josie.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m not worth it.¡± Josie frantically got off the car as if fleeing from him.


    Being perceptive. Morgan understood Josie¡¯s unspoken message and chose not to pursue her.


    He sighed and couldn¡¯t help but picture Dexter¡¯s cold and stern expression. Just then, his phone rang.


    His assistant. Duggar Seraph, called, ¡°Mr. Bastille, pleasee back immediately! Uh¡­ your half-


    brother has shown up at thepany and caused a scene¡­¡±


    Duggar hesitated to use the term ¡°half-brother¡¯ since he wasn¡¯t a blood rtive but an illegitimate


    child¡­.


    ¡°What¡¯s his motive?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s demanding fifty percent of the shares of Bastille Group!¡±


    -Morgan¡¯s heart sank as he watched Josie¡¯s figure disappear around the corner.


    He tightened his grip on the steering wheel and muttered, ¡°I¡¯ll be right back!¡±


    Josie arrived at Mason Garden, where the winter flowers in the garden hung heavy and drooped like


    frost- kissed eggnts.


    A delicateyer of frost coated their petals, creating a shimmering and transparent effect.


    As she walked by, she crouched down and gently brushed off the frost.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    A servant lingered near the doorway, witnessing the scene, and a random proverb came to mind,


    ¡°Knowing the vastness of the world, yet cherishing the beauty of the grass and trees.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, are you alright?¡± the servant inquired with concern.


    Josie mustered a smile. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Her current countenance was a facade, masking the turmoil within.


    Josie¡¯s unintentional sabotage against Dexter and Russell Group may have been skillfully concealed,


    escaping the notice of the general public. Still, the keen-eyed Russell family remained fully aware of the


    situation.


    Yanis mmed his hand on the table in the meeting, fixing a piercing gaze on the man standing before


    him.


    ¡°We entrusted Russell Group to you, and you keep bending over backward and making foolish


    mistakes for that woman?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what you told me before!¡±


    Yanis was infuriated by Dexter¡¯s uncalcted decision and squirmed at the thought of implicating the


    future of Russell Group.


    Dexter raised his eyes, emanating a strong aura.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t take any hits in yesterday¡¯s meeting and won¡¯t in the future. You know damn well what I¡¯m


    capable of,¡± Dexter dered, exuding confidence.


    He had a vindictive streak and would never let Morgan manipte the woman he cared about and turn


    her against him. Even if Morgan had the resources, it was highly doubtful he¡¯d have the luck toe


    out


    on top¡­


    ¡±


    ¡°Dex¡­¡± Wyatt interjected, unable to hold back his two cents.


    ¡°Well, long time no see,¡± Dexter greeted with a fake smile.


    ¡°How are you coping with everything up north? I bet the freezing weather and tough business are


    keeping you on your toes,¡± Dexter¡¯s words dripped with sarcasm as he made his remark.


    Wyatt nodded in agreement and said, ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. By the way, Dex. This is a tough situation


    we¡¯re dealing with. Let¡¯s not forget that the Bastille family holds significant sway in Rivodia. We should


    tread carefully and avoid getting on Morgan¡¯s bad side.¡±


    Dexter squinted his eyes, yfully twirling his finger in the air. ¡°Get on his bad side? How dare he


    expect. nat to back down after waltzing into Wavery and meddling with my affairs?! That¡¯s not how the


    real world. works, my friend!¡±


    Yanis couldn¡¯t resist interjecting, his sarcasm dripping with every word, ¡°Well, do tell us, Dexter. What


    has he done to get under your skin? It¡¯s quiteical to think that every man on this revolves


    around. your less-than-impressive wife!¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smirk ying on his lips, ¡°Oh, trust me, not every man is


    smitten. by her charms. Just look at how Uncle, you¡¯ve been so besotted with my mother, and we all


    know how that ended up, don¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Yanis eximed, standing up and pounding the ground with his cane.


    ¡°Oh well, I know aunt was gone too soon, and it¡¯s understandable that Uncle, you¡¯re lonely and needy.


    But if you were to marry Xanthe as your new wife, it would be awkward for me to call you ¡®Uncle, don¡¯t


    you think?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words carried a sharp edge as he scornfully vented his frustration at Yanis. He showed no


    regard. for the fact that he was criticizing his own mother in the process.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Yanis boomed, his voice filled with fury.


    ¡°Enough, Dex! That¡¯s too much!¡± Wyatt interjected, attempting to intervene and prevent further


    esction.


    ¡°Since the weather up north is getting so rough and unpredictable, it might be a good idea for you to


    hold. off on venturing out to sea for a while,¡± Dexter taunted, subtly redirecting the conversation


    towards Wyatt and turning the tables on him.

 Chapter 614

    Chapter 614


    Chapter 614 Mrs Carter


    As Dexter exited Yanis¡¯ office, he abruptly asserted, ¡°Josie will forever be Mrs. Russell, and no one can


    deny it! No one should ever think about challenging her status!¡±


    His words carried an air of determination and authority.


    Consumed with anger, Yanis grabbed his cane and seemed ready to hurl it at Dexter.


    Dexter nced over his shoulder, seemingly unfazed by Yanis¡¯ fury. ¡°Uncle, there¡¯s only one thing I


    won¡¯tpromise-my im on this woman. She¡¯s mine.¡±


    ¡°People should learn to mind their own business and keep their envy in check,¡± Dexter enunciated


    gravely before exiting.


    As Dexter walked away, nging and shattering noises echoed inside the room.


    In Mason Garden, Josie received a call from Mrs. Langman.


    ¡°Would you like to join me for an afternoon tea at Viva Rivodia?¡± she asked straightforwardly.


    Josie hesitated momentarily before inquiring, ¡°Who else will be there?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡± The fact that Mrs. Langman initiated the invitation meant that the person in


    question held considerable status.


    ¡°Get the car ready. I¡¯m heading out. ¡°Josie stated, her hair still slightly damp and partially tied after the


    up


    shower.


    The servant appeared perplexed. ¡°But didn¡¯t you just get home, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Josie draped a smoky gray coat over her shoulders, exuding a subtle air of coolness, as she stood


    before the mirror to assess her appearance.


    Irrespective of the circumstances, an air ofpetition and rivalry loomed.


    The afternoon tea was scheduled on the top floor of Viva Rivodia, in a caf¨¦ named Sky Pce,


    which was renowned among socialites anddies seeking an elegant afternoon tea experience.


    Sitting gracefully by the window, Summer wore a shawl and radiated the essence of a refineddy with


    her poised posture.


    She was surrounded by a group of women trying to butter her up, but Summer brushed them off with at


    dismissive response.


    Only when Josie approached closer did she finally notice Summer wearing a mask, revealing only a


    pair of captivating eyes.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Summer sneered upon seeing Josie. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re fashionablyte.¡±


    Josie chuckled softly, ¡°Well, it seems Mrs. Carter beat me to it.¡±


    The waiter came over, inquiring about Josie¡¯s choice of beverage. ¡°A caramel mhiato with seventy


    percent sugar, please.¡±


    Summer stared at her coldly. ¡°You seem remarkably calm.¡±


    Contrary to her expectations, Josie showed no signs of weariness or aggression.


    She even managed to curl the corners of her mouth ever so slightly. ¡°It¡¯s an honor to be personally


    invited by Mrs. Carter.¡±


    The afternoon sun enveloped the two women in its warm embrace as they sat face to face.


    Summer¡¯s grip on Josie¡¯s hand tightened, bracing herself for the conversation she dreaded.


    Josie calmly ced her hand on the table and urged, ¡°Just say whatever is on your mind.¡± Summer


    removed her mask, revealing a fatigued expression that surprised Josie. Her paleplexion betrayed


    the toll of countless affairs.


    Unexpectedly, Summer¡¯s tone softened as she began, ¡°Josic, I had a dreamst night.¡±


    ¡°I had this dream where I went back to the time before I turned eighteen when it was just me and Dex,


    and no other girls coulde close to him. On one of his birthdays, when our families were celebrating


    with him, my mom asked if he wanted little Summer to marry little Dex, Summer shared, lost in


    memories.


    Hearing about their past again, Josie didn¡¯t react as fervently as usual. Her expression remained


    impassive,


    as if numb to it all.


    Summer fixed her gaze on Josie, her lips curling into a knowing smile, leaving Josie in suspense. ¡°Do


    you know what he said then?¡±


    It was Mark who intervened. He dismissed that unfitting question for the asion, ¡°Our approval


    doesn¡¯t really matter, does it? It alles down to whether Dex is willing. He¡¯s always had a mind of


    his own.¡±


    Just then, the young Dexter nonchntly chimed in. ¡°Why not?¡±


    Reminiscing the innocent snippet of childhood, Summer blushed, ¡°But I was just a little girl back then.¡±


    Unbeknownst to Dexter, his casual consent to marry her had left an indelible imprint on Summer¡¯s


    heart.


    Dexter¡¯s casual agreement to marry her became a cornerstone sustaining her throughout the years.


    But then, when Josie came around, those once meaningful words had lost their significance and faded


    into


    oblivion!

 Chapter 615

    Chapter 615


    Chapter 615 No Privacy


    Josie¡¯s response wasn¡¯t one of anger. Exuding an air of authority, she calmly retorted, ¡°Those are all


    childhood memories and things of the past. Mrs. Carter, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s disrespectful to your


    husband to bring it up again?¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze locked with Summer¡¯s, their eyes entangled as if invisible threads held them.


    Summer¡¯s lips curved into a cynical smile as she stared at Josie.


    ¡°Josic, you may have perfected the art of ying Dex to your advantage, but¡­¡±


    Confused, Josie interjected, ¡°Mrs. Carter, you¡¯re using the wrong terminology. What does winning or


    losing have to do with me? The union between the Olsen and Carter families was decided without my


    involvement. I have no part in it, remember?¡±


    As the waiter brought the coffee, Josie epted and stirred it with a spoon absentmindedly.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not happy marrying Mr. Carter, perhaps you should express your discontent to your parents


    and the Carters instead of directing your anger towards me.¡±


    Meanwhile, the gentle winter afternoon sun cast a warm and tender glow on Josie.


    ¡°Did you happen to see today¡¯s headline in Wavery? It ims that ¡®Mrs. Russell betrayed during the


    negotiation, causing substantial losses for Russell Group¡±,¡± Summer remarked, cing one hand on


    the seat and gently massaging her temple, ¡°Is it true?¡±


    Josie pressed her lips together.


    Dexter was right. Being Mrs. Russell meant having every move scrutinized and exposed to the public


    eye, necessitating caution and vignce.


    Josie cleverly digressed to another topic, ¡°It¡¯s interesting how quickly Mrs. Carter got wind of the news,


    She was cognizant that Larry had kept a lid on the incident from leaking out.


    ¡°In addition to being Mrs. Carter, I also happen to be the future heir of the Olsen Group.¡±


    Before taking the helm at the Olsen Group, Summer had a background in finance and had fostered


    connections throughout the industry, making it a breeze for her to gather


    information


    Asserting her position as the heir of a corporation, Summer aimed to intimidate Josie with her


    superiority and capabilities.


    However, thetter was unfazed.


    ¡°As far as I know, this news hasn¡¯t reached the public yet. Your attempt to mock me seems. premature,


    don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Summer raised an eyebrow, contemting the idea of leaking the information.


    ¡°True, it may not have caused a huge stir yet, but what if I let it slip?¡±


    As Josie savored her coffee, she crinkled her nose in response to its excessive sweetness.


    ¡°If you really had the guts, you wouldn¡¯t have invited me here under false.


    Josie had a keen understanding of Summer¡¯s motives.


    pretenses.¡±


    ¡°Before you showed up, I had no intention of doing so. But now that you¡¯re here, I do.¡± Summer


    smirked cynically.


    ¡°There¡¯s a rumor iming the man who betrayed you during the negotiation meeting is none other than


    Morgan Bastille, the heir of the Bastille family in Rivodia. Interestingly enough, he also happens to be


    your ex from university.¡±


    Summer¡¯s words sent a shock through Josie¡¯s system. How did the word of her private matters get out


    so swiftly?


    Josie would have been able to tackle the situation if it were just Dexter who knew. But now, even


    Summer had found out. Goodness gracious! Was there no privacy left?


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie forced herself to swallow the sickeningly sweet coffee. ¡°So what?¡±


    ¡°Does Dexter know about this?¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    ¡°Ah, he knew,¡± Summer feigned naivety.


    ¡°What perfect timing for Morgan to make his entrance, huh?¡± she smirked.


    ¡°Sure, but what does that have to do with me?¡± Josie responded nonchntly.


    Even though Summer had found out about their connection, the revtion did not faze her in the


    slightest.


    So what?


    ¡°Mrs. Russell certainly knows how to work her charm,¡± Summer said, a hint of intrigue in her smile.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what unfolds in the future.¡±


    patig of unease. Is this why you asked me out? Frankly, I have no interest in getting caught up in your


    schemes,¡±


    With those words, Josie stood up, but before turning around, she noticed a figure in the


    distance.


    d in a sheepskin vest, the man stood tall with an air of elegance thatmanded.


    attention.


    Arnold nodded politely to the otherdies before making his way toward Josie.


    He approached as he greeted, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Russell.¡±

 Chapter 616

    Chapter 616


    Chapter 616 It¡¯s You Again


    He rarely addressed her as Mrs. Russell.


    Josie locked eyes with Arnold, feeling estranged after they hadn¡¯t seen each other for so long, ¡°Mr.


    Carter came to pick up your wife, huh?¡±


    Arnold lifted his gaze and looked beyond her to Summer, who was lounging in the background,


    observing his interaction with Josie with a cryptic look.


    ¡°Andy, please send Mrs. Carter home,¡± Arnold ordered.


    Summer¡¯s smile deepened. ¡°Are you done with your work?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, just came down from the meeting. It¡¯s so cold. Why didn¡¯t youyer up?¡± Arnold. approached


    and wrapped the scarf he was holding around Summer¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Oh? I didn¡¯t feel cold at all talking with Mrs. Russell. See you at home.¡± Summer said with a smile,


    then walked over to Andy.


    ¡°See you at home.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Drive safely,¡± Arnold reminded Andy..


    The two of them left together, and only then did Josie divert her


    ¡°I suppose I should see myself out now.¡±


    gaze.


    ¡°I heard about what happened yesterday,¡± Arnold said abruptly, ¡°are you okay?¡±


    He wore an unexpectedly serious expression, catching Josie off guard. ¡°Absolutely. Being his wife, I


    don¡¯t think he would be too hard on me.¡±


    Her defense of Dexter was evident, but Arnold couldn¡¯t help but scoff. ¡°I heard he recently had an


    incident with a young female worker at Heaven on Earth, but surprisingly, he let her off the hook.¡±


    Josie arched her eyebrows, trying toprehend the meaning behind Arnold¡¯s words. She was


    confused about who he was referring to, and his intentions remained unclear.


    ¡°You know, you¡¯re partly responsible for this mess, Josie remarked, subtly ming Arnold.


    Arnold¡¯s eyebrow shot up, surprised by her statement.


    ¡°She¡¯s your assistant. Her misconduct and questionable character are your responsibility. Otherwise,


    we wouldn¡¯t be dealing with this chaos. So, yes, I am holding you ountable!¡±


    Josie asserted, her voice tinged with a hint of resentment.


    It dawned on him that Josie was fully aware of everything, including Heather¡¯s existence.


    He let out a soft chuckle, his hand resting casually on the side. ¡°Looks like Dexter has been an open


    book with you.¡±


    Just as Josie was about to continue speaking, their attention was diverted by shattering ss and


    ensuingmotion from outside.


    They exchanged nces and walked out together, joining a crowd that had already gathered. Summer


    could be seen forcefully pushing a woman to the ground, spilling coffee all over.


    Summer¡¯s anger was palpable as she huffed, ¡°Can¡¯t you watch where you¡¯re going? Are your eyes just


    for disy? If you don¡¯t need them, maybe someone else does!¡±


    The woman on the ground kept her head down, biting her lip, appearing distressed and hesitant to


    speak up. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it was an ident. I¡¯m willing to pay for the clothes I ruined.¡±


    Summer sneered upon hearing those words.


    Andy stood awkwardly to the side, exchanging a nce with Arnold. ¡°Um, this¡­dy identally


    bumped into Mrs. Carter.¡±


    ¡°Heather?¡± Arnold¡¯s eyes widen in rm, his voice filled with surprise.


    Josie¡¯s attention shifted, and she realized that the woman on the ground was Heather-the same person


    she had encountered before.


    How did she end up here?


    Summer raised an eyebrow upon hearing the name. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you again. I should¡¯ve known I¡¯d run into


    trouble with someone like you.¡±


    Heather trembled slightly. ¡°Ms. Olsen, I¡¯m deeply sorry for the inconvenience. I¡¯m willing topensate


    for any damages caused, including the cost of the clothes.¡±


    ¡°Thepensation doesn¡¯t bother me,¡± Summer raised her voice, her tone filled with


    resentment.


    ¡°It¡¯s your conduct that does. Consider this a lesson for your own benefit.¡±


    Heather was at a loss for words.


    Looking at the teeming crowd, Heather felt increasingly humiliated.


    Arnold stepped forward, cing himself between Summer and Heather. ¡°That¡¯s enough.


    There¡¯s no need to stoop to her level. We have a meeting to attend, remember?¡±


    ¡°Arnold,¡± Summer teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes, ¡°are you sympathizing with her now? I heard


    she used to be your assistant.¡±


    Heather¡¯s expression turned sour at the mention of her past connection with Arnold. ¡°Mr. Carter, I can


    handle this on my own.¡±

 Chapter 617

    Chapter 617


    Chapter 617 No Wonder He¡¯s Smitten with Her


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough!¡± Arnold scolded in a firm yet restrained voice.


    Summer¡¯s expression contorted with displeasure at his reprimand.


    Josie took a deep breath and stepped forward, navigating her way through the crowd.


    ¡°Mrs. Carter, I see that you have other guests to entertain. Why don¡¯t you leave this to me? I¡¯ll make


    sure she learns her lesson while you take a moment topose yourself.¡±


    Summer furrowed her brow, casting a skeptical nce at Josie, ¡°You?¡±


    Josie maintained aposed demeanor and reminded Summer of her priority. ¡°We must handle this


    properly.¡±


    Whispers circted among the onlookers, drawing attention to the uncanny resemnce between


    Heather and Josie.


    Unwilling to extend the public spectacle in front of the city¡¯s socialites and elites, Summer fixed Heather


    with a fierce re before striding away.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Arnold exchanged a meaningful nce with Josie and quickly followed after Summer.


    As the crowd was dispersing, Josie approached Heather and extended her hand. ¡°Come on.¡±


    Amid the chaotic scene, Josie stood before Heather. With the former¡¯s poised and distant. demeanor,


    she appeared like a guiding presence in front of Heather.


    Heather hesitated momentarily before firmly taking Josie¡¯s hand to lift herself off the ground.


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    ¡°So, you still remember me,¡± Josiemented, tilting her head slightly.


    ¡°We met in Spain,¡± Heather recalled, reminiscing about their previous encounter where Josie had


    stirred up some trouble while seeking information.


    Josie nodded and approached the counter. ¡°A cup of hot cocoa, please.¡±


    The waiter swiftly prepared the beverage and handed it to Josie, who then extended it to Heather.


    ¡°Here, this will help warm you up.¡±


    As the chilly winter wind blew, they stood facing each other, Heather appearing somewhat lost. ¡°Mrs.


    Russell, I truly appreciate your help today. I wouldn¡¯t know what to do without


    you.¡±


    Observing Heather¡¯s submissive and hesitant demeanor, Josie smiled slightly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I


    might cause you trouble?¡±


    ¡°No. You¡¯re not that kind of person, Heather replied with confidence.


    Her certainty piqued Josie¡¯s curiosity. ¡°You seem to know me quite well.¡±


    ¡°With the few encounters I¡¯ve had with Mr. Russell, he had mentioned you, Heather exined.


    Upon hearing this, Heather looked at Josie cautiously, analyzing her expression.


    Josie nodded.


    ¡°I want to rify that the incident in Spain was not a deliberate attempt to cause trouble. If you have


    any lingering dissatisfaction or frustration, please direct it towards me.¡±


    Heather was taken aback by Josie¡¯s words. She responded swiftly, ¡°Oh, no! Mrs. Russell. you¡¯re in a


    whole different league while I¡¯m just a nobody. How could I even imagine venting


    frustrations to someone like you?¡±


    my


    Josie hadn¡¯t fully realized it before, but now she felt the weight of her new status as Mrs. Russell.


    I¡¯m just an ordinary person who happened to capture Dexter¡¯s attention and be Mrs. Russell. The


    privileges and wealth thate with it shouldn¡¯t be romanticized.¡± Josie expressed with unwavering


    rity.


    Josie¡¯s words hit home, leaving Heather with a bitter taste. ¡°No wonder Mr. Russell is so smitten with


    you¡­.¡± she muttered under her breath.


    ¡°So, now that you¡¯re no longer working for Arnold, why are you working at a coffee shop?¡± Josie asked,


    noticing Heather¡¯s attire resembling that of the waitress.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s my day off today, and I picked up a part-time job. I never thought I¡¯d run into Mrs. Carter¡­¡±


    Heather expressed her embarrassment.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t mean any harm with her actions earlier.¡±


    I understand. It¡¯s because I let my emotions get the best of me.¡±


    ¡°Are you struggling with money?¡± Josie asked, cutting to the chase.


    ¡°You know¡­ People like us aren¡¯t allowed toin about not having enough cash. I¡¯m not a local


    here in Wavery, and if I want to make a life here, I still have a


    financially,¡±


    Heather confessed bashfully.


    ¡°Arnold isn¡¯t tight-fisted. He must have given you a considerable amount during the Spain. trip,¡± Josie


    replied nonchntly.


    Heather looked up abruptly, panic shing in her eyes. ¡°Mrs. Russell¡­¡±


    Josie maintained eye contact without saying a word.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it,¡± Heather referred to the video incident.


    ¡°I know. I watched the whole thing, so I won¡¯t me you,¡± Josie¡¯s smile didn¡¯t quite reach her


    eyes.


    ¡°Arnold must have spent a significant sum hiring you, am I correct?¡±

 Chapter 618

    Chapter 618


    Chapter 618 Apologies


    Heather had nowhere to hide: Josie saw right through her. ¡°He gave me two hundred thousand.¡±


    Josie nodded, ¡°That¡¯s quite a sum.¡±


    If Dexter was a sexually impulsive man who fell into a scandalous trap and handed someone a


    potentially devastating advantage, the timing of the two hundred thousand couldn¡¯t have been more


    opportune.


    Arnold was indeed a savvy businessman, and this money was well invested.


    Even if he couldn¡¯t achieve his desired oue, he could use the videoter to manipte the


    dynamics between them at a critical moment.


    Vo! What a guaranteed gain!


    ¡°I had no other choice. I have limited options in this circle,¡± Heather exined quickly.


    ¡°Having no parents, Arnold sponsored my university education. He has shown me great kindness, and I


    feel obligated to repay him.¡±


    ¡°People do desperate things for money, and survival often takes precedence. We all have our own


    paths to follow, and I respect your choices,¡± Josie responded calmly.


    ¡°But what you did jeopardize my marriage, and I couldn¡¯t let it slide.¡±


    Hearing Josie¡¯sment, Heather¡¯s grasp on the cup of hot cocoa weakened, nearly causing it to slip


    from her hand.


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m truly sorry..


    ¡°I don¡¯t hold you solely responsible,¡± Josie reassured her.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°From now on, I will avoid any further contact with Mr. Russell, Heather stated firmly. determination in


    her eyes.


    Josie showed understanding and spoke softly, ¡°You look stunning in white. Just make sure your future


    actions reflect that purity.¡±


    Observing Josie¡¯s diminishing figure, Heather felt a sense of relief wash over her.


    Despite their differences, she couldn¡¯t deny that Josie was a woman worthy of Dexter¡¯s love.


    Im so sorry.¡± she whispered softly to herself.


    As Josie made her way down from the building, she spotted Dexter¡¯s car parked below, its hazard


    lights shing.


    She quickened her pace and approached the vehicle. The car window rolled down.


    ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    Dexter closed his files, his demeanor warm. He opened the car door. ¡°I heard you were here, and it so


    happened that I was passing by.¡±


    Their unresolved argument lingered, creating a subtle air of awkwardness between them.


    Josie settled into the car, and Dexter¡¯s gaze briefly flickered toward Heather before he shifted. his


    attention to Moses. They exchanged a knowing nce, their eyes conveying an unspoken


    understanding.


    The engine started, and Josie couldn¡¯t help but notice a gift bag ced beside her.


    Josie¡¯s curiosity got the better of her, and she eagerly picked up the gift bag, turning it over in


    her hands.


    ¡°What¡¯s inside?¡± she asked, her voiceced with anticipation.


    ¡°It¡¯s a phone I bought for you on my way here. Open it and find out,¡± Dexter replied, a touch of


    satisfaction in his voice. He had noticed her broken phone earlier and wanted to make amends.


    Josie carefully unwrapped the gift with a grateful smile and opened the box, revealing thetest


    smartphone model.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°How many gigabytes does it have?¡±


    ¡°One terabyte, Dexter answered, a hint of pride in his voice.


    ¡°Hmm, impressive,¡± Josie responded, her curiosity piqued.


    She started exploring the features of the new phone. ¡°Well then. I forgive you offensive actions


    yesterday.¡±


    Dexter chuckled softly. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Russell, for your forgiveness.¡±


    for


    your


    Josie was weary, so she rested her head on hisp and closed her eyes. She heard him ask. ¡°Who did


    you meet today?¡±


    ¡°I ran into Arnold and Summer,¡± she replied honestly.


    ¡°You¡¯re always so honest, he remarked.


    ¡°Well, you know it¡¯s because I don¡¯t want to upset the jealous king back home,¡± Josie said, mischief in


    her eyes as she opened them.


    Dexter smiled but kept his opinion to himself, remaining silent.


    Feeling restless lying there, Josie¡¯s hand reached out for the document he had just read. She opened it


    and took a quick look. To her surprise, ¡®Bastille Family¡¯ were printed in bold on the


    page.


    Josie paused.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Josie swiftly closed the document. ¡°Are you snooping into the Bastille family?¡±


    ¡°Know yourself, know your enemy, and you will win every battle,¡± Dexter replied, leaning down to fix her


    hair.


    ¡°How much do you know about the Bastille family?¡±


    Josie chuckled, ¡°Are you trying to gather intel from the ex-girlfriend of your enemy, who also happens to


    be their enemy?¡±


    Dexter lightly tapped her cheek, a yful warning. ¡°You catch on quickly.¡±


    ¡°Not much. I only know that Morgan is the illegitimate child and the future heir of the Bastille family.¡±


    Josie replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡±


    ¡°Yep, that¡¯s about it!¡± Josie confirmed with a nod.

 Chapter 619

    Chapter 619


    Chapter 619 Send Her Away


    Dexter¡¯s face was stered with a wide grin. ¡°Your ex doesn¡¯t seem to understand.¡±


    Josie shot Dexter a disdainful re.


    He tossed the document aside and said casually, ¡°The industry dominating Rivodia is electronic and


    information technology, and forty percent of the biomaterials here are owned by the Bastille Family.¡±


    ¡°His family alone owns forty percent?¡± she asked, her voice thick with disbelief.


    ¡°That¡¯s nothing,¡± Dexter huffed.


    The sight of Dexter trying to one-up her ex was enough to make her chuckle.


    Josie exited the car before Dexter when they arrived at the Mason Garden. Moses had received news


    about Heather. ¡°Heather is being bullied by Summer.¡±


    Dexter shut his eyes, his voice feigning indifference. ¡°She¡¯ll keep being an eyesore if she stays in


    Wavery. Send her back to Rivodia, Dexter ordered.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Tilting her head quizzically, Josie stared at Dexter, who had yet to exit the car. ¡°What are you. doing?¡±


    she asked.


    Dexter¡¯s lips slowly lifted into a warm smile. ¡°It¡¯s winter now,¡± he responded. ¡°Shall we go. skiing


    together?¡±


    ¡°Skiing? That sounds great,¡± Josie answered, her eyes lit with childlike glee. ¡°Just us two?¡±


    Larry and Moses exchanged nces, their eyes twinkling with excitement. ¡°We have wanted to go for a


    long time, too,¡± they said in unison.


    Josie¡¯s face broke into a wide grin. ¡°Cool! We¡¯ll go together then.¡±


    Dexter red coldly, his eyes likesers boring into their souls. ¡°Have youpleted the tasks I


    assigned?¡±


    ¡°We haven¡¯t taken a break for a year. Even a dog must have a rest day, right?¡± Moses grumbled.


    Dexter looked at Josie and chuckled at Moses¡¯ment.


    There was a ce in Wavery that had been snowing for half a year. A thickyer of snow had


    formed, attracting many tourists with their skateboards.


    Larry beamed as they arrived. ¡°This is the city¡¯s biggest and most well-equipped skiplex. You could


    do almost any form of skiing here.¡±


    Everything was covered with a nket of white, softening the edges of the world. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to


    ski, actually,¡± Josie mumbled after she heard Larry¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get the hang of it as you try it out,¡± Dexter responded coolly, raising his eyebrows.


    Dexter¡¯s non-judgmentalment reassured Josie, and her perception of him slowly improved. She


    found that he was nice to hang out with as long as he was treated like an ordinary person and


    approached without ulterior motives.


    He specially assigned a coach to instruct Josie on how to ski, and within a short moment, she could


    already ski on a t surface.


    Josie felt restless on the t surface. At that moment, she saw Dexter skiing down a steep slope at


    lightning speed. Hended firmly at the bottom of the hill, and Josie¡¯s eyes widened in excitement.


    Josie bounded towards Dexter. ¡°I want to try that too!¡± she eximed, her cheeks flushed and her


    breathing in short. gasps.


    Dexter put his arms around her shoulders and teased her, ¡°If you end up falling and bursting. into tears,


    no one¡¯s going to run towards you tofort you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips turned down into a pout, her eyes narrowing in determination. She was about to shove


    Dexter away and find the coach when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her close. ¡°Are you sure you


    want to try?¡± he asked, his voice low and challenging.


    Her excitement was evident in how she nodded rapidly, her eyes shining with anticipation.


    The coach instructed Josie on everything she needed to take note of as she stood beside Dexter. After


    they were satisfied that she had remembered the important points, they finally allowed her to try skiing


    down the slope.


    Josie took a deep breath of the crisp, clean air as she stood at the tip of the hill. The clear blue sky


    stretched above her, and the ground was covered in a thickyer of pristine white snow. She felt like


    she was in the world¡¯s cleanest and most serene ce, apanied by the person she was closest


    to.


    Josie took a deep breath and shifted her gaze back to the ground. She glided down the slope, the wind


    howling around her and the other visitors whistling and cheering. She felt weightless and free like she


    was flying.


    Dexter followed behind on his ski board, controlling his speed to observe her from a safe


    Chapter 619 Send Her Away


    Dexter¡¯s face was stered with a wide grin. ¡°Your ex doesn¡¯t seem to understand.¡±


    Josie shot Dexter a disdainful re.


    He tossed the document aside and said casually, ¡°The industry dominating Rivodia is electronic and


    information technology, and forty percent of the biomaterials here are owned by the Bastille Family.¡±


    ¡°His family alone owns forty percent?¡± she asked, her voice thick with disbelief.


    ¡°That¡¯s nothing,¡± Dexter huffed.


    The sight of Dexter trying to one-up her ex was enough to make her chuckle.


    Josie exited the car before Dexter when they arrived at the Mason Garden. Moses had received news


    about Heather. ¡°Heather is being bullied by Summer.¡±


    Dexter shut his eyes, his voice feigning indifference. ¡°She¡¯ll keep being an eyesore if she stays in


    Wavery. Send her back to Rivodia, Dexter ordered.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Tilting her head quizzically, Josie stared at Dexter, who had yet to exit the car. ¡°What are you. doing?¡±


    she asked.


    Dexter¡¯s lips slowly lifted into a warm smile. ¡°It¡¯s winter now,¡± he responded. ¡°Shall we go. skiing


    together?¡±


    ¡°Skiing? That sounds great,¡± Josie answered, her eyes lit with childlike glee. ¡°Just us two?¡±


    Larry and Moses exchanged nces, their eyes twinkling with excitement. ¡°We have wanted to go for a


    long time, too,¡± they said in unison.


    Josie¡¯s face broke into a wide grin. ¡°Cool! We¡¯ll go together then.¡±


    Dexter red coldly, his eyes likesers boring into their souls. ¡°Have youpleted the tasks I


    assigned?¡±


    ¡°We haven¡¯t taken a break for a year. Even a dog must have a rest day, right?¡± Moses grumbled.


    Dexter looked at Josie and chuckled at Moses¡¯ment.


    There was a ce in Wavery that had been snowing for half a year. A thickyer of snow had


    r


    1/3


    formed, attracting many tourists with their skateboards.


    Larry beamed as they arrived. ¡°This is the city¡¯s biggest and most well-equipped skiplex. You could


    do almost any form of skiing here.¡±


    Everything was covered with a nket of white, softening the edges of the world. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to


    ski, actually,¡± Josie mumbled after she heard Larry¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get the hang of it as you try it out,¡± Dexter responded coolly, raising his eyebrows.


    Dexter¡¯s non-judgmentalment reassured Josie, and her perception of him slowly improved. She


    found that he was nice to hang out with as long as he was treated like an ordinary person and


    approached without ulterior motives.


    He specially assigned a coach to instruct Josie on how to ski, and within a short moment, she could


    already ski on a t surface.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Josie felt restless on the t surface. At that moment, she saw Dexter skiing down a steep slope at


    lightning speed. Hended firmly at the bottom of the hill, and Josie¡¯s eyes widened in excitement.


    Josie bounded towards Dexter. ¡°I want to try that too!¡± she eximed, her cheeks flushed and her


    breathing in short. gasps.


    Dexter put his arms around her shoulders and teased her, ¡°If you end up falling and bursting. into tears,


    no one¡¯s going to run towards you tofort you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips turned down into a pout, her eyes narrowing in determination. She was about to shove


    Dexter away and find the coach when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her close. ¡°Are you sure you


    want to try?¡± he asked, his voice low and challenging.


    Her excitement was evident in how she nodded rapidly, her eyes shining with anticipation.


    The coach instructed Josie on everything she needed to take note of as she stood beside Dexter. After


    they were satisfied that she had remembered the important points, they finally allowed her to try skiing


    down the slope.


    Josie took a deep breath of the crisp, clean air as she stood at the tip of the hill. The clear blue sky


    stretched above her, and the ground was covered in a thickyer of pristine white snow. She felt like


    she was in the world¡¯s cleanest and most serene ce, apanied by the person she was closest


    to.


    Josie took a deep breath and shifted her gaze back to the ground. She glided down the slope, the wind


    howling around her and the other visitors whistling and cheering. She felt weightless and free like she


    was flying.


    Dexter followed behind on his ski board, controlling his speed to observe her from a safe

 Chapter 620

    Chapter 620


    Chapter 620 Learning to Ski


    She tumbled headfirst into the snowdrift, the cold air biting at her nose and cheeks. She could taste the


    snowkes on her tongue as she gasped for breath. After a moment, she lifted. her head and took a


    deep breath of the crisp winter air.


    Dexter picked up her ski poles, panting as he approached her. ¡°You fool.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face fell into a pout. ¡°It¡¯s only my first time.¡±


    The skiplex was a hive of activity, with people of all social sses enjoying a day of skiing.


    No one there could recognize Josie and Dexter, and for the first time in a long time, she felt. like a


    normal couple skiing with their friends in wintertime.


    This was what she had always hoped for with Dexter, to be able to just be themselves and enjoy each


    other¡¯spany.


    Dexter noticed her unfocused gaze and gave her a pinch on her cheeks. ¡°Get up now. The ground is


    really cold. You can try again.¡±


    Josie held onto his hands. ¡°I like this ce.¡±


    ¡°We cane here often if you like it here,¡± he said, firmly pulling her from the ground.


    He assured her confidently, but Josie felt this could be thest time.


    She sighed softly at the thought. As she took her first step, she noticed her left ankle was sprained.


    Dexter knelt down beside her and gently uced her boots. He massaged her ankle tenderly; his lips


    curled into a yful grin. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have let you do this,¡± he said. ¡°It hurts, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°It¡¯s all your fault for not taking good care of me.¡±


    Dexter was baffled by the way she shifted the me on him. A smirk yed on his face as soon as he


    heard herment. Josie¡¯s face scrunched up as he continued to rub her ankle with a controlled force.


    A jolt of adrenaline surged through her veins, fueling her with renewed vigor.


    Out of the blue, she leaned in closer to Dexter and gave him a peck on the lips.


    Dexter was caught off guard. His hands froze in mid-air seconds after the kiss.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    When he regained her senses, her head had already turned to look at the people at


    the top of


    the hill slope. ¡°I feel so bad for spoiling everyone¡¯s mood.¡±


    Dexter briefly nced in their direction. ¡°Nothing to worry about. Let¡¯s head back.¡±


    He quickly removed both of their ski gear and carried her on his back as they made their way toward


    the exit.


    Josie tried to reach back, but he held her tightly. ¡°We have to let them know we¡¯re leaving.¡± she


    asserted. ¡°We can¡¯t just abandon them.¡±


    ¡°Do you think everyone is as foolish as you? They¡¯ll catch up with us soon. Don¡¯t worry about them.¡±


    She wrapped her hands around his neck, leaning close as he carried her. The whiteyer of snow


    softened the edges of the ground and covered the pine trees by the road. Tiny patches of green


    revealed themselves amidst theyer of snow.


    Dexter carried her steadily on his back as they walked towards the exit, but it felt like it was taking


    forever to reach.


    The air was crisp and cold. The snow fell gently, like a million feathers drifting down the sky.


    Josie¡¯s eyes narrowed in suspicion. ¡°Have you carried anyone else before?¡± she asked sharply.


    Dexter shrugged. ¡°Who else could¡¯ve had this privilege?¡± he responded, his voice casual.


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe his words. She felt a pang of jealousy and insecurity. ¡°You¡¯ve never brought


    anyone else here before either?¡± she asked again, her voice trembling.


    Josie regretted the words as soon as they left her mouth.


    Dexter had been treating her so welltely that she had forgotten their boundaries. She brought up


    something from the past-mentioning anything from the past would have made him angry before.


    However, Dexter didn¡¯t throw a tantrum at her. Instead, he responded nonchntly, ¡°No.¡±


    He had carried Leanne numerous times when they were still in school, but it wasn¡¯t something worth


    mentioning now.


    Josie¡¯s lips beamed into a wide grin. She knew she shouldn¡¯t be feeling this way, but she was


    bing more reliant on Dexter as time passed. Everything he did for her made her heart swell with


    admiration.


    She knew she had to control her feelings for him.


    I¡¯m fine now. You can let me down,¡± she muttered softly.


    Dexter let out a light chuckle as he pointed at the exit. ¡°Not bad, Jo. You took a long time. before you


    asked me to let you down.¡±


    She scratched her head, her cheeks turning red as she let out a nervous chuckle.


    After they left the skiplex, Dexter took her to a nearby clinic to check on her ankle. ¡°You really are


    a piece of work.¡±

 Chapter 621

    Chapter 621


    Chapter 621 Dexter¡¯s Effort


    Larry and Andy arrived after a while. ¡°Are you okay, Mrs. Russell?¡± they asked concernedly.


    Josie brushed away the snow on Dexter¡¯s head and replied, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll recover in no time.¡±


    Dexter knelt calmly on the ground, peering up at Josie with kind eyes. ¡°Are you hungry?¡± he asked.


    Josie rubbed her stomach, which was rumbling with hunger. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m famished from ying the whole


    morning,¡± she answered.


    ¡°Let¡¯s grab some food then.¡±


    Dexter supported Josie as they made their way through the extravagant hotel with its five- star


    restaurant. This was a popr destination for the wealthy, who woulde to ski and enjoy the


    luxurious amenities.


    Josie had a fulfilling day.


    As theyy side by side on the bed, Dexter had a sudden thought. ¡°It¡¯s the end of the year, and our


    branch executives will have a final debriefing at Wavery. You shoulde with me to wee them,¡±


    he suggested.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°This involves the Russell Group¡¯s internal matters. I don¡¯t think it


    would be appropriate to have me there.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my wife. How is it not appropriate?¡± Dexter caressed her hair. ¡°It¡¯s alright. Think of it. as a


    chance for you to get to know them better. After all, you¡¯ll be seeing them more often.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart was racing, but his words helped to slow it down. She nodded in assent to his request,


    her eyes still filled with worry.


    Dexter assured Josie that she didn¡¯t need to worry about the event. All she had to do was be there.


    They weed the executives from the airport.


    Josie greeted each of them politely, in which she was addressed as ¡°Mrs. Russell¡± when they greeted


    her respectfully in return.


    Although they knew of her, Dexter had never introduced them to her personally before. They knew that


    if he were willing to do so, it would be because he was determined to make Josie the heart and soul of


    the Russell family.


    Hence, it was clear that they would treat Josie respectfully.


    Wever, Josie didn¡¯t seem to understand the implications of her presence at such an event.


    He asked her nonchntly, ¡°Do you know who these people are?¡±


    Josie had no information whatsoever about their identities. Her eyes widened in confusion as she


    shrugged bemusedly.


    They were the Russell Group¡¯s best-skilled leaders, with expertise across each department, and were


    at the helm of thepany¡¯s operations. They were the ones shaping the future of the Russell Group.


    The media wouldn¡¯t have to worry about the contents for their news outlets over the next week if


    Josie¡¯s meeting with the executives were known to them.


    Dexter smiled at her without saying a word.


    Dexter had meticulously nned their stay at a luxurious hot spring vi by a beach. Josie finally


    understood why he had told her not to get worried.


    When they reached the vi, Josie noticed that Summer was also present. She was dressed in shorts,


    even though it was the dead of winter. She waited for them in thevishly decorated vi, her poise and


    charisma undeniable. ¡°Dex, you guys have finally arrived,¡± she said. ¡°I had a business meeting here


    and heard the news about the Russell Group¡¯s peopleing over, so I decided to wait here.¡±


    She flicked her eyes to Josie and offered a brief blink of acknowledgment.


    Josie felt that Summer¡¯s actions were deliberately provocative. She could tell that Summer was up to


    something, and she felt her blood start to boil. Why is Summer here?


    Fortunately, Dexter immediately noticed her sudden change in mood. ¡°You¡¯re here working barely days


    after your wedding. I take it Arnold isn¡¯t treating you well,¡± hemented with at wry smile.


    Summer¡¯s smile faltered.


    He was establishing a clear boundary with her.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter¡¯s direct statement hinted to the executives, especially his wife, that he had nothing. going on


    with Summer. Everyone around there understood the underlying meaning of his words.


    Josie was secretly pleased as Dexter spoke sternly, almost as if he was warning her not to overstep


    her boundaries.


    Summer reined in her frustrations and suggested coolly, ¡°Arnold is here as well. We shall meet up for


    tea another day.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s hand was warm in Josie¡¯s as they walked towards the room in the mountain. The room itself


    was a feast for the senses, with its rustic furniture and bubbling hot spring pools, their steam rising like


    wisps of fog.


    Josie was extremely pleased with the room. ¡°It¡¯s sofortable.¡±

 Chapter 622

    Chapter 622


    Chapter 622 Showing Affection


    Dexter ced her luggage down and exined, ¡°The water is said to have healing


    properties.¡± He shuffled about, his hands touching the furniture around him. ¡°You can finally start to


    make up for the time you lost at the Sky Pce.¡±


    He still remembered.


    Larry had arranged dinner for them inside the vi, in which Wavery¡¯s local dishes were served. Dexter


    strode into the restaurant in his casual outfit, his confidence radiating off of him. This was the first time


    anyone had seen him outside of work, and they were all surprised by how different he looked. His


    sternness had been reced by a youthful look, and he carried himself with a demeanor that was both


    charming and disarming.


    On the other hand, Josie¡¯s face was painted with makeup that entuated her beautiful appearance.


    She understood the importance of her role as Dexter¡¯s wife.


    During dinner, Dexter, apanied by Josie, gave a toast to everyone at the table, ¡°I hope you have a


    great time here.¡±


    Josie raised her ss in a cheerful toast, her smile lighting up the room.


    Summer had her business meeting at the table next to theirs. When she saw what was happening at


    their table, her hands clenched tightly, her fingers digging into her palms as jealousy rose within her.


    As the night went on, someone at the table became tipsy and started stuttering as they asked. Josie,


    ¡°Is Mr. Russell as stern at home as he is in the office? Aren¡¯t you afraid of him?¡±Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie nced at the man beside her. He was holding a champagne ss, swirling the champagne


    inside indifferently. After a moment¡¯s pause, she shook her head at the executive.


    Dexter stopped swirling his champagne ss and pinched her cheek lightly with a yful grin. ¡°Why


    did you take so long to answer? I¡¯ve never been stern with


    you.


    ¡°He gets angry easily.¡±


    ¡°If I say no, it means no.¡±


    Josie was left speechless by his insistence.


    She let out a forcefulugh, her eyes sparkling with mirth. ¡°See! This is what I¡¯m talking. about.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice caught in his throat, his face flushing red. He was flustered by her sudden


    tease.


    Their bickering was like a symphony of love, filled with yful banter and gentle teasing.


    Seeing how they interacted, Summer took a deep breath and walked over with her ss. ¡°Mrs. Russell,


    I would like to make a toast to you. I missed out on your wedding, so I hope this counts as a toast for


    that time.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes fixated on her with a cold stare.


    Her words seemed harmless and innocent, so Josie couldn¡¯t reject her toast in front of the executives,


    even if she wanted to.


    Josie forced a smile and said through a thin sheer of politeness, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Just as Josie¡¯s lips were about to touch the ss, Dexter swiftly took it from her. ¡°My wife can¡¯t drink,¡±


    he interjected. ¡°I¡¯ll drink this for her.¡± D


    It was a statement, not a question, and Summer knew she couldn¡¯t refuse.


    Summer was taken aback. She didn¡¯t have a chance to object.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Summer responded, flustered.


    Dexter lifted the ss and downed the ss of champagne, showing off his profound jawline.


    When he finished the drink, the people at the table started to cheer for him. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you are so


    lucky¡­¡± D


    Josie¡¯s lips curled into a smile. Her cheeks slowly turned red at the cheers. Dexter¡¯s gaze softened as


    he stared at her, his eyes filled with affection and warmth. The two of them made. a beautiful picture,


    their love for each other evident in their expressions.


    Summer¡¯s grip on her ss tightened like a vice, her knuckles turning white as she fought.


    urge to shatter the delicate crystal.


    the


    On the other side, a warm fire spread throughout Josie¡¯s chest, filling her with delight and warmth as


    she gazed sweetly at Dexter.


    They had been at the dinner table for hours. Summer excused herself, exining that she wasn¡¯t


    feeling well. Josie felt like a weight had been lifted as soon as she was gone.


    It was a rare asion to see Dexter so rxed and happy. Heughed and smiled as he toasted with


    the executives, who greeted him warmly.


    The executives talked about the current state of their industry, but Josie didn¡¯t understand a word they


    were saying. She was nearly lulled to sleep by Dexter¡¯s deep, gravelly voice.


    She didn¡¯t want to ruin their fun, so she secretly poured some champagne into her ss and


    sipped on it asionally to stay awake.


    She focused on her dinner, eating everything Dexter picked for her withoutining. When she was


    finally full, she pulled on his cuff and looked at him with her doe eyes. ¡°Dex, I can¡¯t eat anymore.¡±

 Chapter 623

    Chapter 623


    Chapter 623 Adorable Woman


    Dexter turned to her and chuckled warmly, ¡°Alright, cutie.¡±


    Josie continued to sip on her champagne secretly. As they were about to leave, Dexter noticed Josie¡¯s


    flushed cheeks and ears. She was swaying on her feet, and she leaned against him for support.


    The champagne had gone straight to her head, and her whole body was on fire. She could feel the


    heat rising in her cheeks and ears, and her eyes were glistening with tears. ¡°I think I¡¯m drunk,¡± she said,


    her voice shaking.


    Dexter wrapped her in his embrace and greeted the guest. ¡°My wife is feeling tipsy from the alcohol. I¡¯ll


    have to take her back to the room.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Everyone at the table nodded in understanding.


    Josie¡¯s body went limp in Dexter¡¯s arms, and she whimpered softly. Her voice was light and high, and


    her breath came in short gasps. Dexter could feel her trembling, and he knew that she was feeling very


    ufortable.


    Everyone else directed their lecherous gaze at her. Mrs. Russell¡¯s voice is so flirtatious¡­


    Dexter shot a nce at them, and the people quickly looked away.


    They were astonished to see the way Dexter treated Josie behind the scenes. It was definitely not the


    way that the rumors had portrayed their rtionship. Contrary to the rumors that Dexter didn¡¯t like his


    wife, they noticed the affection and care they shared for each other in their actions and expressions.


    Larry led them back to their rooms as Dexter carried Josie inside. He held the door open and said to


    Larry, ¡°Please ask the receptionist to bring a cup of tea.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll head over now.¡±


    As soon as she was ced on the bed, Josie rolled around; her dark, long hair sticking to her face. Her


    makeup was mostly rubbed off, but her red lips were still alluring.


    Dexter ced his arms under her head, a yful grin ying at his lips as he teased, ¡°It¡¯s time for bed.


    Goodnight.¡±


    Her eyes immediately opened, and she whimpered softly, her hands still in his. ¡°I feel terrible,¡± she


    whined. ¡°My head hurts, and my stomach hurts. Even my hands hurt.¡±


    She was definitely taken over by the alcohol. Every word she spoke was tinged by the effects of


    alcohol.


    Dexter was amused by the way she was acting. It was the first time he had seen Josie behaving in


    such a childlike manner.


    ¡°Who told you to drink so much alcohol secretly?¡±


    ¡°I was getting tired, but you were busy talking to everyone else. I couldn¡¯t fall asleep there, so I just


    drank,¡± Josie responded in a hushed voice..


    Dexter¡¯s smile widened. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? I would¡¯ve stopped if you had asked.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to bother you,¡± Josie pouted in a weak voice.


    His smile faltered as he listened to her words. His heart pounded in his chest, and he felt a knot of


    anxiety. forming in his stomach.


    She was still afraid of him.


    Soon, Larry arrived with a cup of tea. Dexter helped Josic sit up in bed, and she took a few sips of the


    tea. Her eyes drooped with exhaustion, but she felt slightly better after drinking the tea.


    Later, Dexter brought the makeup remover from the dressing table and began to wipe Josie¡¯s face. His


    movements were harsh, and they caused her to wince in pain.


    Josie¡¯s face was free of makeup, but her cheeks were flushed a dusky rose from the alcohol. The flush


    made her skin look soft and inviting, like a ripe peach begging to be bitten into.


    Dexter was sweating by the time he finished. He helped her up and said softly, ¡°You can¡¯t sleep right


    now. Let¡¯s get you into the bath, okay?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to bathe¡­ I¡¯m too tired¡­¡±


    He ignored her refusal. Her stance was wobbly, and she could barely stand. He began to unbutton her


    blouse, and soon, her clothes were all taken off.


    There was nothing to hide from each other, and even Josie wasn¡¯t embarrassed by it anymore. The hot


    spring water enveloped Josie, and the scent of medicinal herbs filled her nose. Her exhaustion melted.


    away, and she felt her soul being cleansed..


    Dexter scrubbed Josie¡¯s body with a sponge, his hands moving slowly and deliberately. No one would


    ever imagine Dexter helping a woman bathe. He had never done anything like this before, and he


    couldn¡¯t help. but feel slightly dumbfounded by the situation.


    Despite everything, he held a sweet and affectionate gaze as he looked at her.

 Chapter 624

    Chapter 624


    Chapter 624 As Long as You Stay by My Side


    As soon as Josie was in the hot spring, she became limp andpliant. Dexter held her tightly, afraid


    she would slip away if he let go.


    The full moon hung like a bright beacon in the sky, casting its silvery light over thendscape. Dexter


    was never one to give freely. His warmth and affection always came with a price. He was a man who


    always wanted something in return..


    The woman¡¯s beauty was captivating, even more so as she stood submerged in the water.


    The heat of desire coursed through Dexter¡¯s body like a river ofva as he approached her. Josie


    moaned. softly, her voice a high-pitched wail of pleasure.


    The water was still and silent, but Josie¡¯s chest still heaved as she struggled to catch her breath. Her


    knees were weak and wobbly, and she could feel the pain radiating from her legs. She was fully awake


    now.


    Josie¡¯s head was still spinning from the alcohol, and she felt lightheaded. Dexter leaned in close and


    whispered, ¡°Do you like me?¡±


    ¡°Who are you referring to?¡± she responded with a casual tone.


    He then rephrased his question and asked, ¡°Do you like Dexter or Morgan?¡±


    ¡°Dexter,¡± she answered without a second of hesitation.


    His lips curled into a smile with a hint of satisfaction.


    Dexter leaned in closer to her and kissed her lips. ¡°Jo, I won¡¯t let you feel wronged again as long as you


    stay by my side,¡± he uttered.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were like two zing coals as he approached her. His veins were pumping with


    adrenaline, and he could barely contain his desire. It was as if he wanted to prove that she was his.


    The tub would have been parched if the water hadn¡¯t been flowing into it constantly.


    Josie was fully awake by the time they finished.


    Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a mischievous smirk. ¡°The winter in Wavery is really beautiful. I¡¯ll take you


    around whenever I¡¯m free.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened as she saw the floor-to-ceiling window on the other end of the tub. The window


    offered a stunning view of the outside that stretched for miles. She couldn¡¯t help but smile as she


    admired. the scenery.


    The sea was a sheet of ice, its surface shimmering like a thousand diamonds under the streetlights.


    Josie parted her lips in a silent gasp as her eyesid upon the view before them.


    The sight of the sea sparkling under the moonlight filled Josie¡¯s heart with warmth.


    ¡°Dexter, don¡¯t be too nice to me,¡± Josie said with an exaggerated sigh, her voiceyered with dread and


    a hint of concern.


    Dexter¡¯s face was shed with darkness; his heart felt like it was being squeezed. But before he let a


    word. in, Josie fell into his embrace as the drowsiness started taking over her. ¡°Hug me to sleep, won¡¯t


    you?¡±


    |||


    1/2


    He had been upset with her earlier, but her proactive gesture made him forget all about it.


    They were in deep slumber from midnight until the following afternoon.


    Josie lifted her eyes and gazed at Dexter¡¯s face, his stubble adding a touch of ruggedness to his


    handsome features. He was sleeping soundly, his chest rising and falling steadily as he held her close.


    Josie¡¯s head was throbbing, resulting fromst night¡¯s rigorous workout and excessive drinking.


    She slowly got out of bed, her head still pounding from the previous night¡¯s excesses. She padded


    across. the warm tiles to the bathroom, her eyes widening in shock as she caught sight of her reflection


    in the


    mirror.


    Her body was a patchwork of bruises, painful evidence of the night¡¯s activities. She buried her face in


    her palms, trying to remember what had happenedst night. She shivered instinctively, imagining how


    wild. the night had been.


    The thought of it made her cheeks burn red.


    As Dexter slept soundly, Josie changed into a fresh set of clothes. She called room service and


    ordered a light lunch, savoring the taste of the food as she basked in the warm afternoon sunlight.


    The long coastline of Wavery was a sight to behold. The sea was frozen solid, and the air was so cold


    that it stung your skin. Yet, the scene was serene, as if the world had been put on pause.


    Dexter woke up to the view of Josie admiring the sea. She waspletely still, her expression one of


    peace and tranquility.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating Josie¡¯s hair like a halo. She sat by the window.


    her hands gently cradling a book. She looked like an angel, a vision of beauty and grace.


    He was mesmerized; his eyes lit up as he took his phone and called, ¡°Josie!¡±


    Josie swiveled her head around, her eyes widening as she saw the camera pointed at her. The shutter


    clicked.


    She closed her book, her cheeks flushing as she inquired, ¡°Were you taking a picture of me?¡±

 Chapter 625

    Chapter 625


    Chapter 625 Keep You Safe


    Dexter smiled mischievously and put his phone away. He leaned over Josie¡¯s shoulder and took a bite


    of her French toast. ¡°Do you remember what you said to mest night?¡± he asked.


    Josie was worried when Dexter brought up her past mistakes. She shook her head at first but then


    nodded. when she saw the strange expression on his face.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter smirked and said, ¡°It¡¯s okay. As long as I remember it, it¡¯s fine.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart fluttered when she heard his response. Her curiosity was piqued, and she probed, ¡°What


    did I


    say?¡±


    ¡°You said¡­¡± The words lingered in the air for several seconds; his eyes lit up with a yful glint as he


    observed her expressions. ¡°You said I was the most good-looking man you¡¯ve seen.¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes at his sillyment..


    Dexter ced thest piece of toast in her mouth and stood up. ¡°I don¡¯t have anything nned this


    afternoon. Let¡¯s go for a walk.¡±


    Dexter rarely had time for himself, thanks to his busy work schedule..


    Josie wore a long beige trench coat, and Dexter held her hand tightly as they walked out of the vi


    from the back door.


    After a short walk, they arrived at a bustling street lined with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and


    street artists. Artists were setting up their easels and offering to draw portraits of tourists for a hefty


    price.


    Dexter and Josie were a striking couple, and their presence drew the attention of everyone in the area.


    Thankfully, no one seemed to recognize them.


    The inns in the area were all charming, with flowers blooming in window boxes.


    Josie gripped Dexter¡¯s hand tightly. This was her favorite part of Wavery.


    Josie slowed her pace and stopped at a stall selling handmade items. Dexter looked down at the items


    and asked, ¡°You like this?¡±


    She nodded at him. ¡°Yes, I want to try it out.¡±


    We shall try it then.


    The owner offered them a small stool to sit on and invited them to try making the items themselves.


    They were given beads, chains, and a few shells. Josic carefully selected a few beads and asked


    Dexter to pass her the chain. She then began to put the beads together.


    The beads were very tiny, so it required good eyesight and a lot of concentration to thread them onto


    the chain. Josie kept making mistakes, which frustrated Dexter. ¡°You¡¯re such a dummy,¡± he scolded her


    yfully, patting her head.


    They switched ces, and Dexter could thread the beads onto the chain without any problems. ¡°This is


    kind of fun, he muttered with a hint of a smile.


    Dexter measured Josie¡¯s wrist against the bracelet he had made for her. The bracelet was filled with


    shells


    shapes and sizes, each one sparkling in the sunlight. As Josie moved, the shells made a soothing


    tinkling sound.


    Josie was thrilled with the bracelet Dexter had made for her. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful,¡± she said, awe-struck at the


    object on her wrist. ¡°It¡¯s better than any name-brand bracelet.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a smile.


    His handiwork had even garnered respect from the owner, with the owner heaping praises upon


    Dexter¡¯s


    work.


    Josie had a sudden thought. ¡°I¡¯m already wearing a rosary bracelet,¡± she said. ¡°I don¡¯t think I should


    wear


    this one with it.¡±


    The man¡¯s forehead furrowed, but Josie had an idea. ¡°You can keep it to keep you safe,¡± she said.


    ¡°You need it more than I do,¡± Josie added. ¡°I just need something pretty¡± She didn¡¯t wait for his


    response. before removing the rosary bracelet from her wrist and putting it on his. ¡°This was given to


    me by udia. She got it from Sousturham. I¡¯m passing it on to you now to keep you safe.¡±


    He wanted to decline her gift but couldn¡¯t refuse her sincere gesture.


    He then asked the owner, ¡°How much does this cost?¡±

 Chapter 626

    Chapter 626


    The owner told him, ¡°A hundred and forty-two.¡± The price even had a special meaning: ¡°I love you.¡±


    Josie whispered under her breath. ¡°I think she¡¯s ripping you off.


    How could a mere hundred be considered a rip-off? She must not be aware of his identity as Dexter


    Russell, the CEO of the Russell Group.


    Dexter smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ll pay with a credit card. Thanks.¡± He then took out his credit card.


    The owner grinned from ear to ear as she processed their purchase.


    After a short while, Josie noticed that the bracelet kept tinkling whenever she walked.


    ¡°Is it too loud?¡± she asked, her eyes darting around the crowd nervously. She didn¡¯t want to attract


    unnecessary attention.


    Dexter squeezed her hand tighter and said, with a glimmer in his eye, ¡°This way, I won¡¯t need to worry


    about losing you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart fluttered at his sweet remark.


    After a while, they ran into Summer.


    Summer was a masterworker and socializer. When she learned that Dexter had brought arge


    group. of top executives with him, she was eager to make connections.


    She was beautiful and held a powerful position in thepany, so it was easy for her to win over the


    executives. If they got along well, they could work for the Olsen Group in the future.


    Therefore, she invited a young man to go for a walk with her today.


    Coincidentally, the young man was the director in charge of Russell Group¡¯s venture capital


    investments. He was a highly skilled student who had been scouted by Dexter.


    They were getting along well. When Summer looked up from her coffee, she saw Dexter and Josie


    walking towards them, hand in hand.


    They were holding hands and looked like they were enjoying each other¡¯spany.


    Summer felt a surge of jealousy at the sight of them.


    The man sitting with Summer stood up and greeted them. ¡°Mr. Russell, what a coincidence!¡±


    Dexter nodded in greeting, but his eyes narrowed with suspicion when he took notice of Summer¡¯s


    presence. ¡°What are you two doing here?¡±


    He was quick to distance himself from Summer. ¡°Summer invited me for coffee. I was bored in the vi,


    so I thought I¡¯d join her.¡±


    Summer stood up and confirmed, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Dexter nodded calmly and didn¡¯t ask any further questions. He gestured for them to sit down and enjoy


    their coffee. ¡°You two go ahead.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face had turned even grimmer. Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of worry when she saw his


    darkened expression.


    Did Dexter get jealous because Summer was with another man?


    They walked in silence; the only sound that emitted between them was the crunch of their footsteps on


    the gravel path. The friendly atmosphere between them earlier had been reced by a pressuring


    tension.


    The sun was about to set, and the air was cold and crisp, stinging their skin as the wind blew. Josie


    subconsciously pulled her hand away from Dexter.


    Dexter held her hand tighter and turned to look at her. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you asking me about it? You¡¯re


    clearly unhappy.¡±


    He knew it all along.


    Josie felt a bitter sense of pain coil around her heart. ¡°Something seemed to be bothering you, so I


    didn¡¯t want to distract you.¡±


    Dexter pulled out his phone from his pocket and demanded, ¡°Follow Summer and Mr. Hensley. I want


    to know everything they talk about.¡±


    Josie pulled her hands away from his and shoved them into her cold pockets.


    She then walked ahead of him.


    Josie walked too hastily, her legs stumbling in the snow. She almost fell, but the man quickly steadied


    her from behind. ¡°Are you angry?¡± he asked.


    Dexter followed behind her with his long strides. Josie¡¯s breath came in short gasps as she tried to


    keep her distance from him, her eyes stinging from the cold air.


    ¡°Why are you acting this way?¡± Dexter asked again, wrapping his arms around her. He helped her to


    wipe the snow off her face. ¡°How did I make you angry?¡±


    His tone was calm and gentle, but Josie was still unsure how to respond.


    Dexter was incredibly patient with her. He looked into her eyes affectionately and exined, ¡°You must


    know what kind of power the Olsen family holds in Wavery, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Before Josie could interject, he continued, ¡°They can pose a great risk to the Russell Group, especially


    if my people end up working with them.¡±


    Josie tried to connect the dots as she asked carefully, ¡°You¡¯re afraid that there might be a spy hiding


    within the management?¡±


    Josie may not have seemed to understand fully, but Summer was an opportunist who knew the tricks of


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    the trade.


    Meanwhile, on the other side, Summer stood up and bid Mr. Hensley farewell. ¡°We¡¯ll talk again next


    time.. The Olsen family won¡¯t let you down. Please consider my offer.¡±

 Chapter 627

    Chapter 627


    Chapter 627 Unannounced Guest


    After weing the executives, it was time for the Russell Group¡¯s annual meeting. Dexter would be


    very busy with his work.


    Josie¡¯s work studio was running smoothly under Laura and the other employees. Her only responsibility


    was to work on her drawings and send them to the studio. Dexter had mentioned in the vi by the


    seaside that Josie could participate in the Russell Group¡¯s


    events.


    Josie felt that it wasn¡¯t appropriate for her to be there. She was still hung up on the they had only gotten


    married as a business partnership.


    past when


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you n the annual meeting very wellst time? Even when the Russell Group faced a crisis,


    you stood up courageously with your ideas and overcame the problem. Why are you worried now?¡±


    Dexter teased her, his eyes twinkling with amusement.


    Josie red at him. ¡°How is this the same? It¡¯s the annual meeting where all of Russell Group¡¯s top


    executives attend. What would they think of me if I attended? After all, I messed up the partnership


    meeting thest time¡­¡±


    Josie felt a pang of guilt when she thought about this.


    ¡°It could only mean that you need more practice. So you have to be there for your own sake,¡± Dexter


    said matter-of-factly as he poured himself a cup of tea.


    Once he made his mind up, there was no changing it. Josie understood what he meant and sighed


    deeply before replying, ¡°Alright then. Thank you, Mr. Russell, for giving me more. workload.¡±


    Dexter held her hand tightly in his.


    The annual meeting was a big asion. In addition to the executives she had met at the hot spring


    vi, there were also the directors of the various departments under the Russell. Group and the


    executive directors in the meeting room.


    Josie followed Dexter and Larry, a stack of files in her hands. Her sses sat neatly on her nose, and


    her makeup was understated but polished. She smiled warmly, her lips curling into a gentle arc. Her


    professional demeanor was entuated by her warm smile and friendly


    eyes.


    Everyone in the meeting room started to exchange nces when they saw her enter the room. They


    assumed that Mr. Russell¡¯s wife would be participating in the work at the Russell Group.


    And Dexter had allowed her to do so.


    |||


    O


    1/3


    ¡°If everyone¡¯s here, we can start now,¡± he announced to the table as he opened theptop.


    ¡°Everyone who should be here is here, but it seems we have an unannounced guest,¡± Yanis remarked


    scornfully, his hostility towards Josie evident.


    Josie kept herposure, and Dexter was unfazed by Yanis¡¯ment. ¡°If you¡¯re referring to my wife,


    then you must be opposing me. She¡¯s my wife, so do you think I¡¯m also a guest here?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He spoke in a rxed tone, but there was a steely edge to his words that made everyone in the


    meeting room sit up and take notice.


    Yanis¡¯ face turned ashen pale. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant, Dexter,¡± he said, his voice trembling. ¡°It¡¯s


    ridiculous for you to think that way of me.¡±


    ¡°Please refer to me as Mr. Russell at work,¡± Dexter reminded, his words straightforward and


    unforgiving.


    Yanis fidgeted in his seat, his eyes darting around the table. The words had registered, and he could


    feel the tension building in his jaw. He thought about leaving, but the thought of the bonuses at the end


    of the year kept him rooted to his seat. He couldn¡¯t bear standing up to Dexter now, not when so much


    was at stake.


    The meeting room started to fill with chatter and gossip. Dexter had already defended Josie and


    humiliated one of the executive directors, and the room was buzzing with spection. about what this


    meant. Was Dexter warning everyone that they should not cross Josie?


    ¡°Let¡¯s begin,¡± Josie¡¯s voice was soft and gentle, but it carried an air of assertiveness and. confidence as


    it traveled through therge meeting room.


    The meeting was in full swing, with Dexter listening to the reports from each department¡¯s


    representative. Josie, who was in charge of taking minutes, took a moment to pour everyone a cup of


    water when the meeting reached its midpoint. Despite her position as Dexter¡¯s wife. she maintained a


    humble and friendly attitude.


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Russell,¡± they expressed, stammering slightly. They were pleasantly surprised by


    Josie¡¯s approachability and friendliness.


    She smiled warmly and said, ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡±


    When she passed Yanis a cup of water, she maintained herposure and smiled politely at him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard, Mr. Russell,¡± she enunciated.


    Yanis red at her and said firmly, ¡°It seems like Mrs. Russell has Mr. Russell wrapped around her little


    finger. Aren¡¯t you going to ask me what tea I prefer?¡±


    ¡°This pot of tea is better. Would you like to try it, Mr. Russell?¡± Josie asked as she poured him.


    a cup of tea.

 Chapter 628

    Chapter 628


    Chapter 628 It¡¯s Not Easy to Be Mrs Russell


    Yanis¡¯ face turned grim, and he didn¡¯t touch the teacup throughout the rest of the meeting. Josie didn¡¯t


    spare him a nce as she passed by and continued her work.


    Yanis¡¯ eyes were fixated on Josie¡¯s back. This young woman may not have said or done anything, but


    she had the presence of the heart and soul of the Russell family.


    I can¡¯t believe Dexter treats her with such affection and care!


    The meetingsted two hours, and everyone went to lunch together at noon.


    Josie sat with the secretaries, not wanting to draw attention to herself by speaking with


    Dexter.


    Dexter wasn¡¯t pleased with her actions. He shot her several nces-it was evident that he was


    wondering why she was avoiding him.


    Josie smiled, her hands brushing against his thighs under the table.


    The touch was ticklish, and he almost lost his cool.


    He texted Josie, ¡®If you¡¯re so brave, why don¡¯t you sit by my side?¡¯


    Josie replied, I¡¯m not that brave.


    Dexter¡¯s smile returned. Later, an executive approached him and spoke to him in a hushed. voice.


    They then left the table and headed for the office. Josie¡¯s heart swelled as she stared at hisrge,


    broad back..


    After lunch, she went to the pantry.


    Not everyone was happy to see her at the meeting. A few employees who admired Dexter were


    gathered in the pantry, gossiping about her.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t office romance banned in the Russell Group? How did Josie manage to marry Dexter?¡±


    ¡°Exactly. I remembered that Josie was an employee in the design department.¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Who knows what kind of tricks she used to seduce Dexter? He even gave up on Summer for. her.


    She¡¯s definitely not an ordinary woman.¡±


    The women gossiped in hushed tones, their voices filled with envy and displeasure. They each held a


    cup of hot coffee in their hands.


    ¡°Now that she¡¯s married to Dexter, she¡¯s decided to leave the Russell Group. She must be afraid of the


    gossip,¡± one of themmented from her perch on a tall stool, her legs crossed.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t she here now? She must be up to something,¡± another chimed in.


    Josie stood behind the wall, out of sight, listening to what they had to say about her and


    Dexter.


    ¡°She looks like an ordinary girl with an average body. What did Dexter ever see in her?¡± They went on


    badmouthing Josie without


    any restraint.


    Just then, Larry arrived at the pantry and overheard part of the conversation. He wanted to go in and


    stop them, but Josie blocked him, shaking her head to signal him not to meddle in her business.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    Josie turned around and walked into the pantry. She casually poured herself a cup water, her calm and


    composed manner leaving them startled and frozen.


    of hot


    She didn¡¯t say a word in her defense. However, they held their breaths, struggling to figure out how


    long she had been there and how much she had heard.


    ¡°When I first joined the Russell Group, Dexter and thepany were not as sessful as they are


    today,¡± Josie said, lifting her gaze and staring at them. ¡°Now that the


    Their breaths caught in their throats, afraid of what Josie might do. But as her words. registered, they


    realized she was simply exining her position.


    ¡°But¡­ But you¡¯re married to Mr. Russell,¡± someone spoke up bravely.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve all seen the news surrounding our rtionship. Do you think it¡¯s easy to be Mrs.


    Russell?¡± Josie skillfully replied to her question, leaving no room for rebuttal.


    News about Mrs. Russell had been sweeping the inte frequently for the past two years, resulting in


    various critiques from the onlinemunity. It was only recently that they began to receive more


    positivements from the public.


    When she first got together with Dexter, she was used by various media outlets and constantly thrown


    to the wolves.

 Chapter 629

    Chapter 629


    Chapter 629 Your Ex Wasn¡¯t Responsible


    ¡°You¡¯ve already won in life, so you can say whatever nonsense you want,¡± the woman huffed,


    expressing her reluctance to ept Josie¡¯s exnation. ¡°You used all kinds of petty tricks to win


    Dexter¡¯s heart. None of us here arecking in terms of physical appearance. The only thing that helped


    you get the title of Mrs. Russell is your luck.


    Her words exposed her immaturity and envy towards Josie, leaving her baffled and flustered. She


    couldn¡¯t hold in herughter in the end.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Sheughed because she knew Dexter didn¡¯t care about


    appearance.


    ¡°What you say about me doesn¡¯t reflect who I truly am. They only reflect your character and yourck


    of ss,¡± Josie chuckled at the end of her sentence. She didn¡¯t want to exin any further.


    Josie left the pantry with her cup of warm water. She had grown more resilient to the opinions of others.


    She didn¡¯t let their opinions get to her.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a bigmouth! Don¡¯t you have anything better to do?¡± Larry finally went into the pantry to


    reprimand them after Josie left.


    ¡°Mr. Peeple¡­¡±


    The meeting continued for another four hours after lunch. Josie¡¯s meeting minutes were well-written


    and free of errors.


    Seeing that Yanis wasn¡¯t in the meeting room, Josie secretly texted Dexter. He replied, ¡®Do you check


    your textbook after a test?¡¯


    Yanis wouldn¡¯t be here to tolerate any further insults after losing face earlier.


    Josie¡¯s breath caught in her throat when she saw the message. She replied, ¡®I actually do.¡±


    After a short while, he sent another message, ¡®I really can¡¯t tell.¡±


    Their conversation ended there.


    The meeting finally ended in the evening, but they would have to continue their discussions for the next


    two days due to theplexity of the issues rted to their management.


    After following him around all day, Josie realized how busy and tiring Dexter¡¯s schedule was.


    Larry looked through her meeting minutes when they arrived at Dexter¡¯s office. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re


    really talented. Our secretaries could use some training from you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re ttering me.¡±


    Dexter signaled for Larry to hand him the meeting minutes. As Larry passed them over, he continued to


    praise Josic. ¡°I¡¯m only speaking the truth,¡± he said. ¡°Why don¡¯t you return to work with the Russell


    Group? I believe this is where you belong.¡±


    He wasying it on a bit thick with hispliments. Josie couldn¡¯t help but smile as she replied, ¡°I still


    prefer designing.¡±


    She needed to hand in her drafts for the partnered project with the Carter Group soon. After that, the


    construction process would officially begin. This meant that she would be required to monitor the


    progress at the construction site and wouldn¡¯t be free to join in the events at the Russell Group.


    ¡°It¡¯s not bad,¡± Dextermented nonchntly. ¡°How did you make such a simple mistake in thest


    meeting? It must have been because your ex was present.¡±


    ¡°Ha!¡­¡± Larry couldn¡¯t hold in hisughter, amused by the way Dexter expressed his jealousy in such a


    rxed and carefree tone.


    He immediately covered his mouth and left the office quickly and cleverly.


    Josie¡¯s eyes zed as she red at him. ¡°Dexter! Are you trying to get on my nerves?¡±


    He sat at the head of the meeting table, dressed in a formal suit, but his expression was casual and


    carefree. He looked at her with a mischievous grin, exuding a rather yful demeanor.


    ¡°You must be the epitome of jealousy.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t try to deny it. ¡°I heard that the illegitimate child of the Bastille family has returned. He¡¯s


    nning to fight with your ex for their assets.¡±


    Josie ignored Dexter¡¯s mention of Morgan. ¡°The Bastille family had an illegitimate child?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips widened into a grin. ¡°You seem to be clueless about your ex. What did you guys talk about


    when you were together? The weather? The moon? He must¡¯ve been a bad boyfriend if he wasn¡¯t


    bothered to reveal anything about himself.¡±


    He would keep talking about it as long as she was there. So, Josie picked up her bag from the sofa and


    turned around. ¡°You can continue. I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Why are you getting mad?¡± Dexter continued to tease her as he hurried to catch ¡°You don¡¯t even let


    me speak the truth.¡±


    up


    to her.


    ¡°Dex!¡± Josie¡¯s face was flushed red with frustration. Her eyes narrowed as she turned around and


    pointed at him angrily.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stop,¡± he chuckled, holding her hands. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±

 Chapter 630

    Chapter 630


    Chapter 630 At the Construction Site


    After the Carter Group reviewed and approved the submitted draft, construction began shortly


    thereafter.


    Josie initially wanted Laura to follow up on the project¡¯s progress, but she didn¡¯t want any more rumors


    to spread. Ultimately, it would be more suitable for her to be in charge, as she was the designer. Laura


    would have found it difficult to be involved as she was still a member of the Olsen family.


    Therefore, Josie ended up handling the project.


    After all, Arnold wouldn¡¯t be on-site.


    Dexter knew that she was getting busier with her work at her studio, but he didn¡¯t realize that the


    project she was handling was rted to the Carter Group, so he didn¡¯t object. He was also busy with


    his own work at the Russell Group.


    Josie was grateful that Dexter didn¡¯t force her to return to the Russell Group, but she didn¡¯t. tell him that


    the project she was working on was for the Carter Group.


    If he knew, he would have asked her to withdraw from the project. She couldn¡¯t just let all her hard work


    go to waste.


    Josie spent days and nights at the construction site, wearing a safety helmet and overseeing. the


    construction work. She was the only woman in charge of a group of brawny andrge. men, but they


    respected her because of her great skills and formidable attitude.


    Despite her lean figure and gentle voice, her words were firm and assertive. ¡°How could you make a


    mistake in this area? You should just insert cement your head if you¡¯re not going to use your brains.¡±


    ¡°I drew the n very clearly. Are you blind, or is there something wrong with your brain?¡±


    ¡°This is not a joke. Have you forgotten what happened to the Russell Group? The Russell Group is still


    recovering from the crisis caused by the construction problem. If you don¡¯t want the Carter Group to


    end up the same way, get your heads in the game.¡±


    Josie stood under the hot sun, holding the building n in her hands, as she reprimanded them.


    The muscr men at the construction site didn¡¯t dare to argue with her.


    Who knew such a tiny girl would have so much charisma?


    Soon enough, everyone knew that the designer of this construction project was a bold


    woman who was not afraid of anything.


    Arnold, who had just finished his meeting, was also notified.


    ¡°It¡¯s the project Mrs. Russell is in charge of,¡± Andy added.


    Arnold paused momentarily. ¡°I don¡¯t recall you ever referring to her as Mrs. Russell before.¡±


    Andy choked on his breath. ¡°That was in the past, Mr. Carter.¡±


    Dexter had a new way of doing things. He no longer kept Josie under wraps. In fact, he even brought


    her to their annual executive meeting. This clearly demonstrated Josie¡¯s status.


    No one could tear them apart.


    Andy had clung to a glimmer of hope in the past, but he didn¡¯t dare look at Arnold now.


    ¡°What¡¯s on my schedule for this afternoon?¡±


    Andy flipped through his notebook and reported, ¡°Mrs. Carter has invited you to the Olsen residence.


    Mr. Olsen¡¯s health has deteriorated.¡±


    ¡°What time?¡±


    ¡°Around two.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Arnold crumpled the document in his hands. ¡°I¡¯ll be heading out before then.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Andy¡¯s words trailed off. ¡°Are you having lunch?¡±


    The food at the construction site was not very nutritious. Josie joined the workers in eating takeout


    food. Over time, the construction workers began to warm up to Josie, realizing that her stern attitude


    was a result of her concern for the quality of the project.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it tiring to work here?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± Josie responded, nodding her head. ¡°But it¡¯s my line of work. I¡¯ve gotten used to it.¡±


    ¡°There aren¡¯t many young women who can withstand the rigorous work here,¡± said Will, one of the


    men. His face was red from being under the sun. ¡°Many college students want to work in office


    buildings, so not many would choose to work in engineering.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Will, aren¡¯t I ady too?¡± Angelina directed her question at him with a steely gaze, clearly displeased


    with hisment. She had been following closely with Josie for this project.

 Chapter 631

    Chapter 631


    Chapter 631 Heather Had Been Sent Away


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Josie agreed, munching on her food. ¡°You¡¯re generalizing all of us. Even though we¡¯re office


    workers, we still have to work at the construction site.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault,¡± Will apologized quickly. ¡°I was too narrow-minded.¡± He lifted his noticed a car parked


    outside the construction site. A man got out of the car.


    gaze and


    The man was tall and lean, with an outstanding aura. He was walking towards them.


    Will narrowed his eyes to get a better look. As the man approached them, he finally realized who the


    man was. ¡°Mr. Carter!¡± he called out immediately, almost dropping his food.


    Josie was still busy finishing her lunch box when she heard Will call out Arnold¡¯s name. She felt a


    shiver run down her spine, and her hands started to tremble.


    Soon, she heard a familiar voice say, ¡°I had a business meeting nearby, so I thought I¡¯d stop by. Are


    you having lunch now?¡±


    After she confirmed that it was indeed Arnold, she froze in ce.


    ¡°Yes. Everything is going well here. Would you like to take a look around?¡± Will brought a safety helmet


    and offered it to Arnold.


    Arnold declined the helmet and instead handed Will a bag of food. ¡°These are some local delicacies of


    Wavery I picked up. You can share them with your friends.¡±


    He brought arge bag filled with food. Will eagerly took it from him and called out to the other


    construction workers, ¡°Mr. Carter brought us food!¡±


    Arnold stood behind her, not moving. She was about to leave as the other workers crowded around


    them, but Will noticed her and called out, ¡°Jo, I remember you¡¯re from Wavery. Come and try the food


    with us.¡±


    Josie¡¯s stomach churned.


    She slowly turned her head around and met Arnold¡¯s eyes. He raised his eyebrows, and his lips curled


    into a mischievous grin.


    ¡°The local dishes from Kodille are indeed delicious. Mr. Carter sure knows where to find the good food.¡±


    At the corner of the construction site, Arnold and Josie stood side by side. She took a bite of the meat


    and nodded in approval.


    ¡°Why did youe here yourself? You could have sent one of your subordinates,¡± Arnold


    said, pretending that he hadn¡¯t intended to see her here.


    ¡°Of course, I can¡¯t leave my work to others. It¡¯s my design, after all,¡± Josie replied, ncing at him with


    disdain.


    ¡°You¡¯re certainly responsible.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s words weren¡¯t meant as apliment.


    ¡°My designs are very expensive. Mr. Carter, I hope you can be payment.¡±


    generous with your final


    Knowing that no one they knew was around, Josie could let her guard down in front of Arnold and


    spoke casually.


    it


    The sauce from her pasta smeared on the corner of her lips, and Arnold reached out to wipe away with


    his hand. ¡°How could I leave a skilled designer like you in debt? I¡¯ll make sure you get your desired


    amount by the time you¡¯re done.¡±


    His actions made her freeze in her spot. She couldn¡¯t say anything, as Arnold had already pulled his


    hand away.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to thank you, Mr. Carter, for your prompt payment.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so distant with me. You weren¡¯t like that in the past.¡± Arnold rested his arms on


    the scaffolding as he looked around the construction site. His tone of voice was low and deep, tinged


    with dismay.


    Josie felt awkward by his remark, but she couldn¡¯t help but curl her lips into a cunning grin. ¡°We¡¯re


    enemies now. If I were to act carelessly, your wife would tear me to pieces. I don¡¯t want my life to go


    into chaos again.¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Arnold was amused by Josie¡¯s expression, a slight smile stered on his face as he changed the


    subject, ¡°I recently got the news that Heather had been sent away.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand froze mid-air, the fork halfway to her mouth. Her eyes widened in surprise. ¡°I wasn¡¯t


    aware,¡± she said.


    Arnold nodded knowingly. ¡°I see. It seems like Dexter is treating you well.¡±


    He sent Heather away quietly, severing all ties with her.


    ¡°Where was she sent?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Rivodia is a possibility, as Heather is from there.¡±

 Chapter 632

    Chapter 632


    Chapter 632 We¡¯ll Never Know if She¡¯s Useless


    Josie raised her eyebrows in amusement. ¡°I seem to be fated with Rivonia, even though I¡¯ve never


    been there before.¡±


    Both Heather and Morgan were from Rivodia. The people in her life who were entangled with her were


    somehow connected to Rivodia.


    Arnold¡¯s expression was unreadable as he looked at her. ¡°Rivodia is a nice ce. You could there


    sometime,¡± he said after a short pause.


    She had been in Wavery too long and rarely traveled outside its borders. ¡°We¡¯ll see,¡± she answered


    with an indifferent response.


    However, she had never heard from Dexter about Heather being sent away. She was pleasantly


    surprised by how quietly he had tried to end everything.


    go


    ¡°It¡¯s such a pity for Heather, who worked hard toe to the city only to be sent back home in disgrace


    by a powerful man,¡± Arnold chuckled softly.


    Josie¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as she turned to look at him. ¡°Don¡¯t try to shift the me,¡± she chided.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you, she wouldn¡¯t be in this situation. You¡¯re the first person to me for this.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face grew grimmer with each passing second. She had never confronted Arnold, but he had


    pushed her buttons this time. ¡°Mr. Carter, you¡¯re a skilled man. However, you won¡¯t be able to use the


    same tricks over and over again.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    They stood still under the faint sunlight, their eyes locked on each other.


    Arnold smirked. ¡°Unfortunately, you weren¡¯t willing to be my pawn, so I had to find someone else.¡±


    ¡°Your poor pawn¡­¡± Josie leaned in closer to him and said in a hushed tone, ¡°is useless now.¡±


    Arnold lowered his gaze and grinned mischievously at her. His heart fluttered at the sight of her pale


    face, but he regained his cool and confidently said, ¡°We¡¯ll never know.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t interested in continuing the conversation with him. She started walking away but suddenly


    realized that she had forgotten her lunchbox. She quickly turned around, grabbed it, and stomped away


    in anger.


    |||


    O


    1/3


    ¡°Josie,¡± Arnold called out to her.


    She continued to march forward, crossing the ground that had been filled with cement.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s the end of the year, Dexter must be very busy. I suggest you stay by his side. You don¡¯t have


    toe to the construction site.¡±


    Josie grew suspicious of his words. She turned around aggressively and snapped, ¡°Shoo.¡±


    Arnold did not get angry at her. Instead, he was bewildered by her reaction. There was still another half


    a month until the construction work was finished. It seemed like he would have to personally monitor


    them.


    His phone had been buzzing in his pocket for a long time when he finally picked it up. Andy¡¯s voice


    came across the line in a panicky tone, ¡°Mr. Carter, it¡¯s already two twenty. Mrs. Carter has called me


    several times to ask where you are. Are you on your way to the Olsen Residence?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s eyes were fixed on Josie¡¯s back as she walked away.


    He sighed deeply before replying, ¡°I¡¯m on my way.¡±


    Andy¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°You haven¡¯t left yet?¡±


    He knew it was a long drive from the construction site to the Olsen Residence.


    Josie returned to Angelina, who had a wide grin on her face. ¡°Ms. Warren, you¡¯re friends with Mr.


    Carter as well?¡±


    She noticed that the two had been talking for a long time, but Josie¡¯s face was etched with frustration


    when she returned.


    ¡°I know him. He¡¯s a know-it-all,¡± Josie huffed. She wasn¡¯t afraid of Arnold at all.


    The lines on Angelina¡¯s forehead deepened as she thought about it. ¡°Kodille is located in the west, but


    we¡¯re on the north side of the city. I don¡¯t think he got the food on the way,¡± she said, trying to make


    sense of Arnold¡¯s words.


    Not only were they in different directions, but he also had to travel a long way from his office. to get to


    the construction site. And that¡¯s not even counting the time it took to wait for the food to be prepared


    and packed.


    Josie froze for a while as she realized the implications of Angelina¡¯s words. She squinted her eyes and


    pursed her lips in confusion but quickly recovered and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about him. He¡¯s


    the CEO. He has all the time and money in the world to travel the


    extra mile.¡±


    Angelina rubbed her temples. ¡°Is that so?¡± she asked, still not quite believing it.

 Chapter 633

    Chapter 633


    hapter 633 Like a Dog


    Josie returned to the Mason Garden, where Dexter had already arrived before her.


    ¡°Where is Mr. Russell?¡± Josie asked the maid, cing her bag down and removing her coat.


    ¡°He¡¯s in the study having a meeting with someone,¡± Julie replied, and then she hung up Josie¡¯s coat in


    the closet.


    Josie¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as she asked, ¡°There¡¯s a guest? Who is it?¡±


    ¡°I heard Mr. Russell referred to him as Wyatt.¡±


    Wyatt was here. What was he doing here sote?


    Josie nodded in understanding. ¡°Please help me prepare three cups of chamomile tea and send it to


    my room once I¡¯m done showering.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The study was filled with confidential documents rted to the Russell Group. Dexter trusted Josie


    implicitly, so the documents were not kept in a safe.


    Wyatt stood only a few steps away from the stack of files, but he could not see their contents.


    Josie brought the tea to the study. As she was about to knock on the door, she saw Wyatt kneeling on


    the marble floor with a loud thud. His gaze was fixated on the calm,posed man across from him.


    ¡°Dex, my father crossed the line foolishly, but he will change. Please give him another chance,¡± Wyatt


    pleaded sincerely.


    ¡°Please, for the sake of Grandpa, let¡¯s forget about what happened. After all, we¡¯re family. Dexter,


    please forgive us.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He was sweating profusely, facing Dexter¡¯s inscrutable expression. There was no guarantee what


    Dexter would do.


    Her heart raced, its thundering beats echoing in her ears. Although Wyatt feared Dexter, he had always


    carried himself with a dignified and confident air. It must have been a serious problem if he was willing


    to kneel in front of Dexter.


    He sat stiffly in his chair, his jaw clenched, and his hands were white-knuckled as he gripped hold of a


    pen. ¡°Wyatt,¡± he said, his voice eerily calm, ¡°I had the highest hopes for you out of everyone in the


    family. But you¡¯ve disappointed me this time.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s my father, after all,¡± Wyatt replied, his voice trailing off.


    Dexter nodded, his eyes bulging in realization. ¡°He¡¯s my biological uncle, but he showed me no mercy.¡±


    The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning.


    Beads of sweat dotted Wyatt¡¯s forehead as he moved towards Dexter on his knees, his hands grabbing


    Dexter¡¯s pants. ¡°The Russell Group has already recovered from the crisis. It won¡¯t happen again.


    Dexter, my dad isn¡¯t capable of causing any more trouble to you,¡± he said in a breathless voice.


    Looming over Wyatt¡¯s hunched figure, Dexter used his shoes and firmly pressed against Wyatt¡¯s chin,


    lifting his face to meet Dexter¡¯s cold, hard stare. ¡°You¡¯re making me wonder how involved you were,¡±


    Dexter growled murderously through gritted teeth.


    A cold shiver ran down Wyatt¡¯s spine, his whole body turning rigid from fear. He tried to shake his head,


    but he couldn¡¯t move a muscle.


    ¡°You conspired with our enemies to bring down the Russell Group. How do you expect me to forgive


    you for such an absurdity?¡± He lowered his voice to emphasize the seriousness of his


    words.


    Wyatt¡¯s hair stood on each end, his stomach churning with a nauseating mixture of anxiety and


    apprehension. ¡°I never conspired with outside forces to harm the Russell Group,¡± he finally managed to


    say, his voice cracking and tight.


    A heavy silence hung in the air.


    Dexter pursed his lips into a tight line-he knew Wyatt was still withholding secrets.


    The memories of the hardships he had endured a few months ago were like a knife in the back. Dexter


    had made sure to keep track of everyone who was involved in the matter so that he could get revenge.


    He would not rest until they had all paid for what they had done to


    him.


    Now that Yanis was being med, Wyatt quickly stalked over to Dexter, eager to clear his


    name.


    ¡°Dex, my


    father was also deceived. Arnold yed him like a puppet, making him think the Olsen family would be


    backing him up. If Arnold hadn¡¯t manipted my father, he wouldn¡¯t have dared to move a muscle!¡±


    His neck almost sprained from having to keep his head up, and saliva started to dribble down his chin


    as he spoke. He no longer looked like the charismatic and respectable top businessman he once was.


    He looked like a dog that had been thoroughly cowed.

 Chapter 634

    Chapter 634


    Chapter 634 Who Knows Who Will Win in the End


    ¡°Is that so? It seems he¡¯s had rebellious thoughts for quite some time then. It will just be a small


    punishment-I won¡¯t take his life,¡± Dexter spoke slowly, his words dripping with indifference while his icy


    gaze fixed on Wyatt. ¡°Serve a few years in jail, thene out right. in time for retirement, perfect


    timing.¡±


    Dexter recited out his potential path in life as casually as one would discuss what to have for dinner.


    The chilling certainty in his voice sent shivers down Wyatt¡¯s spine.


    Wyatt had been in this room for what felt like an eternity, pleading relentlessly to the man. before him,


    even resorting to kneeling and enduring humiliation. However, he still couldn¡¯t change Dexter¡¯s mind.


    Each attempt had chipped away at Wyatt¡¯s once unyielding spirit, leaving only a shred of dignity


    behind.


    ¡°My father¡¯s health is in poor condition, Dex,¡± Wyatt¡¯s voice wavered, desperation seeping through.


    ¡°Once he goes to jail, his life is over.¡±


    The plea forpassion fell on deaf ears, and all Wyatt received in response was Dexter raising his


    gaze with a distant, detached expression.


    ¡°Dex¡­¡± Wyatt choked on his words.


    Dexter retracted his leg, not bothering to look up again. ¡°Go home. Don¡¯t sacrifice yourself for someone


    like your father,¡± he uttered, his toneced with a blend of disdain.


    The implication was clear-Yanis¡¯ destiny was decided no matter what they said. Dexter was resolute in


    sending Yanis to prison, showing no mercy.


    Josie believed that Old Mr. Russell must have known about this and even agreed; otherwise, Wyatt


    wouldn¡¯t havee here to plead so desperately for his father¡¯s life.


    ¡°Is the jail time really going to be just for a few years?¡± Wyatt slumped to the ground, his voice filled


    with profound despair, his hopes shattered by Dexter¡¯s heartlessness.


    In the dimly lit room, Wyatt¡¯s voice rang out again, trembling with disappointment, ¡°I knew you pushed


    the Carter family over a cliff. I just didn¡¯t expect that you wouldn¡¯t even spare your own family.¡± As the


    weight of Dexter¡¯s cruelty and indifference settled in, the room. seemed to grow colder, matching the


    chill in Wyatt¡¯s heart.


    Wyatt¡¯s words were soft but carried a rity that changed Dexter¡¯s expression abruptly. He stared at


    Wyatt. ¡°What did you say?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice disyed a hint of disbelief.


    ¡°Arnold¡¯s father is still in the Southern Wavery Prison, isn¡¯t he? I doubt he will evere out again in


    this lifetime,¡± Wyatt¡¯s smile twisted into a sinister grin, and his bloodshot eyes red. at Dexter with


    intense hatred. ¡°No wonder Arnold hates you so much. I believe everything


    1/2


    he¡¯s done is right. Dex, you deserve the worst. I¡¯d love to see who will win-Arnold or you!¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The whole study fell into an cerie silence as the weight of Wyatt¡¯s usations hung heavily in the air.


    Josie sensed that something dangerous was about to unfold. She was about to step in and defuse the


    situation. Still, before she could act, Dexter suddenly lifted his leg and sent. a powerful kick to Wyatt¡¯s


    chest, hurtling him across the room.


    The force of the blow caused Wyatt to crash into the corner of the wall, and he clutched his chest in


    agony, coughing violently.


    ¡°You are a capitalist yourself. You know best what kind of people they are. Yet, you sympathize with


    them.¡± Dexter smoothed out the creases in his trousers, showing little signs of losing his temper, only


    disying disdain for Wyatt¡¯s foolishness.


    ¡°You seem so indignant. Does Arnold know about this? How about I send you to him. tomorrow and tell


    him there¡¯s a loyal and devoted dog who wants to serve him!¡± Upon hearing this, Josie¡¯s heart


    trembled, knowing that Dexter was capable of such a thing.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I just stating the truth?¡± Wyatt yelled with all his might, ¡°If you send my father to prison, I will do


    everything I can to go against you. Arnold is too kind. You are able to catch. your breath only because


    he didn¡¯t eliminate youpletely. If not, who knows who will win in the end!¡±


    Hearing this, Dexter clenched his teeth, a wicked smirk forming. ¡°Unfortunately, you¡¯re not Arnold. You


    can¡¯t reach the heights of his position, let alone match me in qualifications.¡±


    His words conveyed the harsh reality, leaving Wyatt speechless, a heavy sense of defeat in his chest


    as the weight of Dexter¡¯s words struck him deeply.


    ¡°When I was managing the inte industry, my abilities were no worse than yours. If you give me


    some time, I will definitely outperform you. But unfortunately, you got scared of my potential and took


    thepany back, leaving me with nothing. Dexter, you¡¯re shameless!¡± Wyatt¡¯s voice trembled with a


    mix of anger and resentment.


    Wyatt had been nursing this resentment about the matter for a long time, finally reaching its. boiling


    point. The taste of having his fervent spirit and ambitions suddenly extinguished by Dexter¡¯s actions


    was difficult for him to bear.


    Dexter raised an eyebrow, seemingly unaffected by Wyatt¡¯s outburst. ¡°Do scared?¡± he retorted.


    you


    think I got

 Chapter 635

    Chapter 635


    Chapter 635 Not to Settle Scores, but to Win


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that so?¡± Wyatt questioned.


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Dexter¡¯s cruel smile deepened as he replied. ¡°What you did back then was


    commendable, but I decided to take back thepany because of Josie.¡±


    Josie was standing at the door, meeting Dexter¡¯s gaze, which had long noticed her presence. Josie felt


    a chill down her spine.


    ¡°We had a little disagreement at that time, and what she cared most about was that so-called


    company,¡± Dexter exined nonchntly as if suggesting that the termination of an entirepany


    was just a result of a minor argument between a couple.


    Wyatt realized he was just an innocent sacrifice caught in the crossfire of their disagreement. He


    looked incredulous. ¡°It¡¯s impossible¡­¡±


    ¡°I do feel some remorse towards you. That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t stop Mark Olsen from investing in you to clear


    your debts. So we settled the score here,¡± Dexter spoke lightly.


    Wyatt shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s impossible, absolutely impossible. You were afraid of my abilities, afraid that


    I wouldpete with the Russell family.¡±


    Dexter chuckled disdainfully, mocking Wyatt¡¯s wild imagination. ¡°You can ask Josie why she stayed by


    your side and tried her best to salvage the situation. Her conscience made her guilty, so she wanted to


    compensate you.¡±


    Wyatt was greatly shaken, standing still in disbelief that his significant ups and downs were all due to


    the conflicts between Dexter and his wife.


    He felt like a toy being yed with by God¡¯s hands.


    Wyatt mentioning Yanis had indeed angered Dexter, leading Dexter to strike him with such at


    devastating blow.


    Struggling to stand up, Wyatt clung to his knees, finding it difficult to get back on his feet. Blood flowed


    from the corner of his mouth, and his gaze toward Dexter seemed filled with


    Venom.


    ¡°We have lots of time. Let¡¯s see how things go,¡± Dexter remained silent, picking up


    down earlier and capping it.


    had


    put


    Wyatt walked towards the exit, his gaze meeting Josie¡¯s sympathetic look.


    He walked up to her, his voice strained, ¡°Is it true?¡±


    the pen


    he


    Josie held the tea tray motionlessly, feeling guilt welling up inside her, rendering her unable


    to utter a word.


    Her silence was no different from admitting it.


    Realization dawned upon him; Wyatt bumped into Josie¡¯s shoulder and strode away from the corridor.


    Josie watched as the once young and spirited young man¡¯s back filled with agony as if he had


    experienced the vicissitudes of life.


    Amidst the curious gazes of the servants, he left Mason Garden.


    Once he was gone, Josie entered the study. The room still faintly carried the scent of blood, leaving her


    bewildered. ¡°I remember the first time I saw him, your rtionship with him seemed quite good, and


    you actually admired him.¡±


    Why did it change so much now, to the point where they seemed like enemies? Josie wondered.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Dexter


    put down the


    pen and picked up


    the cup


    of tea, taking a sip. ¡°Is it Chamomile?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t answer him.


    He then understood. ¡°Are you upset that I mentioned you?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Josie decided not to ask any more questions and moved to stand behind him. She gently


    massaged his shoulders with just the right amount of pressure. ¡°Do you really want to send Yanis to


    jail? It¡¯s almost New Year-it doesn¡¯t seem like good timing.¡±


    She knew he wouldn¡¯t easily change his mind, but she wanted to remind him that the timing


    was wrong.


    ¡°Then let him get through this New Year,¡± Dexter leaned back and took the chance to hold her hand.


    ¡°You¡¯re so well-behaved today; let me guess, you got into trouble and need me to clean up for you?¡±


    He grinned mischievously, and Josie lightly hit him. ¡°I do have a question.¡±

 Chapter 636

    Chapter 636


    Chapter 636 Someone Inside the Olsen Family


    ¡°Ask away,¡± Dexter responded casually.


    At the tip of her tongue, Josie was worried that the question might offend Dexter. Anyone who offended


    Dexter, sooner orter, would face unfavorable consequences. Besides, asking about it would seem


    like jealousy, so she kept it to herself.


    ¡°Nothing much, it¡¯s about Yanis. You dealt with him, but what about the situation with the Olsen family?¡±


    Josie smoothly shifted the topic.


    Dexter closed his eyes, a look of contemtion crossing his face, his finger pressed against his temple.


    ¡°Mark¡¯s illness has rpsed, and he¡¯s in the hospital. If the people under him find. out, the New Year


    won¡¯t be peaceful for him.¡±


    Josie understood the delicate situation Summer faced after taking over the Olsen Group. Mark¡¯s illness


    weakened his support for her, leaving her vulnerable to internal challenges, and Arnold, too, would be


    affected.


    This presented a favorable opportunity for Dexter, who aimed to deal with both the Carters and Olsens,


    leveraging the vulnerability caused by Mark¡¯s illness. The situation was ripe for him to make significant


    moves within the Olsen family structure.


    A sudden thought struck Josie as she observed Dexter¡¯sposed expression. ¡°Is Mark¡¯s illness


    somehow rted to you?¡± she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes flickered open, a mocking smile ying on his lips. ¡°I can¡¯t control someone else¡¯s


    health, can I?¡±


    Josie understood the implication. Some individuals within the Olsen family were loyal to Dexter and


    might have yed a part in orchestrating Mark¡¯s ailment.


    Wrapped in Dexter¡¯s embrace, Josie pressed her fingertip to his lips. ¡°Forget about Summer, but Mark


    is still your childhood friend¡¯s father. If she finds out, she¡¯ll be heartbroken.¡±


    Dexter responded with a teasing smile. ¡°Jealous of her, are you?¡±


    Amused by the suggestion, Josie rolled her eyes at him. ¡°What do I have to be jealous of? When you


    two broke up, you were just a kid. It doesn¡¯t bother me at all.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s grin widened. ¡°You¡¯re jealous.¡±


    Josie yfully rebutted, ¡°Just because you¡¯re easily jealous doesn¡¯t mean I am too.¡±


    Dexter acknowledged her wit and rose, holding Josie¡¯s hand to lead her out of the study. ¡°Remember


    not to make Chamomile tea next time. I don¡¯t like it.¡±


    A shiver ran down Josie¡¯s spine as she recalled that Chamomile was Arnold¡¯s favorite tea.


    ¡°You came backte today.¡± Dexter changed the subject, steering away from the conversation that


    made Josie anxious.


    ¡°The construction site has been jam-packed. I had to oversee the progress,¡± Josie exined,


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    her words sincere.


    ¡°Do you need me to pick you up in the future?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already arranged a driver for me. There¡¯s no need to trouble you,¡± Josie replied, feeling slightly


    guilty for not revealing that the project belonged to the Carter family.


    If he found out, he would definitely not allow her to go, and it would waste all the studio members¡¯


    efforts.


    Fortunately, Dexter seemed preupied with recent affairs.


    ¡°Tomorrow morning,e with me to the hospital to visit Mark. After that, I have some business to


    attend to,¡± Dexter suggested, pulling her closer into his embrace.


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Josie asked, her fingers gently intertwined with his.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be inspecting the branchpanies, starting with Rivodia.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement as she recalled something Arnold had mentioned. ¡°I heard that


    Rivodia is beautiful. When will you take me there to see it?¡±


    ¡°Why not tomorrow? Put aside your work ande with me on a business trip,¡± Dexter suggested,


    leading Josie into the master bedroom and closing the door behind them.

 Chapter 637

    Chapter 637


    Chapter 637 Marriage Is Nice


    Josie¡¯s yful demeanor faded slightly as she expressed her disapproval. ¡°No, that won¡¯t do¡­ It¡¯s a


    working trip. I can¡¯t fully enjoy it when there¡¯s work involved.¡±


    Dexter amusedly responded, ¡°You¡¯re quite hard to satisfy, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    He gently lifted Josie up and yfully threw her onto the soft bed. He followed closely, leaning over her,


    and whispered, ¡°Then, when we have time, I¡¯ll take you


    there.¡±


    With the man so close, Josie blushed. She avoided his intense gaze, responding softly with at slight


    hum.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    In the morning, light streamed through the car windows as Josie drank her milk, her fair skin. adorned


    with a rosy hue. Her drowsy state revealed the effects of insufficient sleep.


    Sitting in the back seat, Larry reported to Dexter, ¡°Mr. Russell, here are Mark¡¯s medical records.¡±


    Dexter quickly scanned the records, inquiring, ¡°Has Summer or the head of the investment bank taken


    any action yet?¡±


    Larry responded, ¡°They haven¡¯t made any moves yet. I believe the investment bank is also hesitant,


    considering the interests of the old and new bosses. I think we can trust Mr. Hensley¡¯s judgment for


    now.¡±


    Dexter, signing various contracts before him, chuckled with a tinge of disdain. ¡°What if the new boss


    proves to be more powerful?¡± Dexter remarked, implicating that the head of the investment bank, Mr.


    Hensley, might abandon the old boss for its strongerpetitor.


    Larry was momentarily at a loss for words, unable toe up with a satisfactory response.


    ¡°Not everyone has a conscience,¡± Dexter added, his expression thoughtful.


    Just then, Josie opened her eyes. She shook the milk bottle, saying, ¡°I can¡¯t finish it, Dexter.¡±


    Interrupting his work, Dexter put aside the contracts and took over the bottle, finishing the remaining


    milk at her behest.


    Larry found himself somewhat stunned. Having worked with Dexter for so long, he knew hist habits and


    preferences well. Dexter had always been a ck coffee enthusiast, showing no interest in anything


    else. But now, he has even started drinking milk.


    Dexter noticed Larry¡¯s perplexed gaze and raised an eyebrow. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Larry stammered, ¡°It¡¯s nothing¡­ I just noticed that married men do seem to change.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved into a faint smile as he nced affectionately at Josie, who pretended to nap.


    ¡°Marriage is nice. You should try it too.¡±


    Larry was taken aback by Dexter¡¯s teasing remark, unsure how to respond. He replied humbly, ¡°I am


    not as fortunate as you, Mr. Russell. I don¡¯t even have a girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not toote to find one. If you ever need anything, just let me know,¡± Dexter replied, his tone


    lighthearted and teasing.


    The sound of Dexter¡¯s pen scratching against the paper filled the air. He appeared truly at ease and


    content under the warm rays of sunlight.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, they found Mark Olsen¡¯s floor heavily guarded by vignt bodyguards with


    strict ess control. They were clearly closely guarding against any news about Mark¡¯s illness leaking


    out.


    Standing outside the hospital room, they realized all the tight security measures had proven futile.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, I think we should reconsider this. Thepany should not be handed over to Ms. Olsen so


    hastily,¡± came a voice from inside the room. Several middle-aged individuals who appeared to be


    shareholders were sitting around Mark Olsen¡¯s bedside, offering relentless advice.


    Standing by the side, udia addressed the shareholders calmly, ¡°I understand what you¡¯re saying.


    You came so early just to talk about these trivial matters. Do you think Summer isn¡¯t capable?¡±


    Marky in bed, and his eyes closed as if pretending to be asleep.


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen, we didn¡¯t mean to undermine Ms. Olsen¡¯s capability. We just think that she¡¯s still young


    and too impulsive to handle such a huge responsibility,¡± one of the shareholders exined.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen has already made a decision, proving she¡¯s qualified. You are all acting above. station as


    shareholders,¡± udia replied calmly andposedly, defending Summer.


    your


    Just then, several people emerged from the elevator. Arnold and Summer led the group. and they


    weren¡¯t surprised to see Dexter and Josie waiting outside.


    ¡°You came early, Dex,¡± Arnold remarked nonchntly.

 Chapter 638

    Chapter 638


    Chapter 638 For Gaining Benefits


    Summer¡¯s frustration was evident as she gritted her teeth in


    annoyance.


    Dexter, everposed, replied, ¡°You have a lot on your te while I¡¯m not as busy. Coming early is


    perfectly normal.¡±


    Josie hooked her arm around his, exchanging a casual nce with Arnold. Arnold suggested, ¡°Dex,


    why don¡¯t youe inside?¡±


    ¡°They are still discussing business there-it wouldn¡¯t be convenient for me to enter,¡± Dexter smiled.


    As they stood outside the ward, the voices of discontent from within reached their ears.


    ¡°Whether she¡¯s qualified or not depends on her actual performance. Frankly speaking, Mrs. Olsen has


    been estranged from the Olsen family for so long-she doesn¡¯t understand the inner workings. Do you


    know how many reckless things Ms. Olsen has done since taking over the position? I¡¯m sure you


    don¡¯t.¡±


    udia¡¯s response remainedposed, undeterred by the sarcasm. ¡°All I know is that during the


    months when Mark wasn¡¯t handling the business, Summer and Arnold managed. everything efficiently


    and orderly, didn¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°Regardless, Arnold is an outsider and, moreover, apetitor. This marriage should never have


    happened from the beginning!¡±


    The dissatisfaction with Olsen¡¯s decisions had been brewing for a long time.


    Summer sneered as she listened to their disparagingments, seemingly ready to push


    the ward door and confront them. However, Arnold grabbed her arm before she could storm in, holding


    her in an intimate position. ¡°Hold on, okay?¡±


    open


    Josie nced at Dexter, who chimed in, ¡°Yes, there will always be rumors, and you can¡¯t silence


    everyone,¡±


    ¡°Rumors¡­.¡± Summer whispered softly, ¡°It¡¯s strange. My father was hospitalized yesterday, and the


    news spread so quickly today. It¡¯s as if it was nned in advance.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows in agreement but remained silent on the matter.


    Tensions rose among the group in the corridor.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. I¡¯m not dead yet. Why are you all so anxious?¡± Mark suddenly opened his eyes and


    interrupted their conversation.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, we didn¡¯t mean it that way. We just want you to reconsider your decision. With the New


    Year approaching, there are too manyplicated matters, and Summer is not up to the task.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Olsen, we¡¯re only doing this for the good of the Olsen Group.¡±


    Summer could no longer contain herself. She forcefully pushed open the ward door, her hair flying. ¡°Do


    you old men think I¡¯m not capable, or are you just trying to interfere to leech from us Olsens?¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Her smile was forced,cking sincerity, yet her presence wasmanding.


    The elders looked at each other, taken aback by her sudden outburst. One spoke quavering, trying to


    defuse the tension, ¡°Sum¡­ we didn¡¯t mean it that way. You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Arnold followed, stepping into the ward and shielding Summer behind him. ¡°I have the


    annual reports showing the Olsen Group¡¯s yearly profits here. Father, you¡¯ll understand if youpare


    them.¡±


    With one hand in his pocket and the other holding the documents, Arnold disyed the evidence


    casually.


    ¡°You!¡± Someone in the group grew anxious and cast a furtive nce at Mark. ¡°You¡¯re an outsider.


    There¡¯s no credit in any of your ims. Don¡¯t try to drive a wedge between us.¡±


    Undeterred, Arnold respectfully offered the documents to Mark. ¡°Father, please take a look.¡±


    Another individual in the group grew even more anxious, attempting to discredit Arnold¡¯s evidence.


    ¡°This is just nder. We decided to visit Mr. Olsen spontaneously. How could you have prepared these


    fake documents so quickly? You must have prepared them in advance!¡±


    Arnold maintained hisposure and quickly responded, his tone firm and assertive. ¡°Yeah, your visit


    wasn¡¯t nned? The news of Mr. Olsen¡¯s hospitalization wasn¡¯t leaked to the public. I wonder how you


    all knew about it so quickly. Were you also prepared for this day?¡± His words subtly hinted at the


    possibility of ulterior motives among the group, challenging their credibility.


    Mark scanned through the documents, his expression growing exceedingly solemn, and a glimmer of


    ferocity appeared.

 Chapter 639

    Chapter 639


    Chapter 639 Bring Your Brother Back


    ¡°What¡¯s all this arguing about? Do you wish I were gone tomorrow? Mark closed the documents and


    mmed them on the table, asserting his authority. His stern expression clearly conveyed that he


    wouldn¡¯t tolerate plotting or scheming among the elders.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, we have no such intention!¡± The several men quickly reassured, their eyes flickering with


    hidden motives, especially when they nced at Arnold, who seemed to have be their target.


    Arnold, ever astute, saw an opportunity in the crisis. He cleverly shifted the focus, ¡°Father, Sum is a


    neer, and it¡¯s normal for the elders not to trust her fully. But wanting to remove her so urgently.


    raises some doubts.¡±


    Summer, her arms crossed, added fuel to the fire, ¡°Yeah, without knowing better, one might think you


    guys want to take my ce.¡±


    One of the shareholders chided her, ¡°Sum!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare call me Sum. I¡¯m not the same as you all, who are only in it for personal gain,¡± Summer


    retorted, her gaze unwavering as she focused on Mark.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Mark said while trying to sit up, and udia swiftly moved to assist him, supporting his


    weakened body. ¡°Both sides have concerns, and it¡¯s natural to overthink the situation. How about


    bringing your brother back to assist you during this time of the year?¡±


    Zach? Josie felt the urge to step forward, but Dexter restrained her with a gentle shake.


    ¡°My brother, Zach?¡± Summer seemed taken aback, exchanging nces with Arnold.


    ¡°Zach¡­¡± Several elders also expressed their concerns.


    ¡°What? Are you all not satisfied with my decision?¡± Mark¡¯s voice carried a hint of threat.


    As Dexter whispered to Josie, he exined, ¡°It¡¯s been several months. The rumors about his domestic


    abuse have died down, and Zach will eventually return. You can¡¯t stop him.¡±


    However, Josie was worried about the consequences of Zach¡¯s return, particrly regarding Laura.


    Knowing Zach¡¯s pent-up anger, she feared he might seek revenge against Laura.


    The elders sheepishly agreed to Mark¡¯s decision, ¡°¡­No, no.¡±


    Arnold seized the opportunity to support Mark¡¯s decision. ¡°Zach is one of us and knows about the


    company. Father¡¯s decision indeed strikes a bnce.¡±


    Summer¡¯s displeasure was evident, as she realized that Mark¡¯s choice to have Zach assist instead of


    Arnold indicated his intention to use Zach to secure the interests of the older members and maintain


    their rtionships.


    Unfazed. Summer taunted the elders. ¡°Are you still not leaving? Or do you want to stay and have


    breakfast together?¡±


    Taking the hint, the several elders quickly made their exit. Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand and made way for


    them to leave the room.


    With the room now quiet, the couple entered. Dexter said, ¡°I understand now why Mr. Olsen¡¯s health is


    not improving You¡¯re bothered even by such trivial matters. It¡¯s no wonder you¡¯re exhausted.


    12


    No matter how often he saw Josie he couldn¡¯t help but feel that she resembled that person who


    appeared tri hus memory every so often


    Thank you for your concern, but this is something we can handle ourselves, Arnold chimed in, his gaze


    falling on the couple¡¯s sped hands as he held Summer¡¯s hand, disying their intimacy


    ¡°Of course, I believe you can handle it. I¡¯m not here to meddle, Dexter responded with a light smile,


    addressing Mark and udia. ¡°I had a morning flight. I heard Mr. Olsen was hospitalized, so I first


    rushed here. I hope it¡¯s not too much of a bother.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Mark remained silent, and udia spoke on his behalf, It¡¯s no trouble. He has a long-term health issue;


    it happens every winter.¡±

 Chapter 640

    Chapter 640


    Chapter 640 Worried for Mark Olsen


    That¡¯s a relief,¡± said Dexter as he reached out to pick up the tea kettle and added some hot water to


    Mark¡¯s rup. ¡°Have you seen the neurosurgeon I rmended youst time?¡±


    Mark closed his eyes and continued to rest. ¡°Treating the symptoms rather than the root cause won¡¯t


    solve this problem


    udia stared at the Catholic rosaries on Dexter¡¯s wrist for a long time and finally exchanged a nce


    with Josic.


    There was an inexplicable sense of guilt and pity in udia¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Dexter. I will take good care of Father this winter,¡± Arnold reassured, emphasizing Father


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Dexter raised an eyebrow and said, ¡°I heard that the Carter group initiated a project with the


    government. Aren¡¯t you busy with that?¡±


    Josie felt a searing gaze as soon as it was mentioned.


    Arnold sneered, ¡°We are in good hands. We have someone trustworthy overseeing the project.¡±


    ¡°Arnold has a lot on his te, but I believe he can make time,¡± Dexter said tly. He turned to Summer


    and continued, ¡°Don¡¯t let the pressure get to you, Sum. It¡¯s normal for the elders to hesitate since some


    of your past decisions were made recklessly. What do


    you think?¡±


    He hesitated for a moment before finally using the term ¡®recklessly,


    The Russell Group had undermined Summer since she joined, although it was never openly


    acknowledged.


    At that moment, Dexter subtly insinuated, and Summer flustered. She gave him a twisted smile and


    replied, ¡°Mr. Russell is right, I understand.¡±


    ¡°Josie, what brings you here? Dexter can¡¯t get enough of you, can he?¡± Arnold teased.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I can¡¯t get enough of Josie,¡± Dexter admitted and continued, ¡°She heard about Mr. Olsen¡¯s


    situation and insisted oning together to check on him.¡±


    Nobody believed those words. Summer¡¯s eyes narrowed in disbelief.


    Why was she suddenly concerned about Mark? Did she know something?


    There seemed to be a mutual understanding between the father and daughter that something was


    amiss.


    Within a few seconds, Summer¡¯s heart was pounding and racing rapidly


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Mr. Olsen and I have met several times, and he has always been nice to me. He is ill, and


    I am quite concerned for him,¡± Josie asserted.


    Mark did take good care of her in many ways.


    ¡°Is that so? Summer bit her bottom lip as she asked.


    Just then, the maid pushed open the door with a breakfast tray. ¡°Mr. Olsen, it¡¯s time for breakfast, she


    announced.


    111


    12


    The maid walked straight ahead but identally bumped into Josie before gracefully stepping aside to


    let her pass.


    Summer noticed the maid¡¯s youthful appearance and pleasant face, embodying the ideal image of a


    virtuous wife and mother.


    She served Mark his meal meticulously while udia watched silently from the side


    Summer questioned, ¡°Ms. rkson, you¡¯re a bitte today¡±


    ¡°Oh. Mr. Olsen wanted banana bread, but we ran out of ingredients I went out to buy them she


    exined.


    Summer felt a lump in her throat upon hearing the reply.


    Summer trusted her and didn¡¯t ask any more questions without prying further.


    Dexter bade farewell and promised to visit Mark when he had the time. Holding Josie¡¯s hand, they left


    the hospital room.


    As they exited the suffocating atmosphere, Josie breathed a sigh of relief, feeling the tension release


    from her shoulders. Dexter tenderly squeezed her hand and said gently, ¡°You¡¯ve been through so


    much.¡±


    Josie pouted, her beady eyes casting a forlorn look on the floor.


    Larry stepped forward at the right moment and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, the flight is about to depart.¡±


    Dexter nodded and replied, ¡°I have to go. Shall I have the driver take you?¡±


    ¡°Okay.

 Chapter 641

    Chapter 641


    Chapter 641 Arnold¡¯s Vengeance


    As Arnold stepped out of the hospital, an intimate scene unfolded before his eyes. Dexter held joue


    shoulder and gently kissed her forehead, solidifying their bond


    As he boarded the car, the engine roared to life Dexter unexpectedly spoke through the rolled window 1


    remember that Wyatt arranged your father¡¯s ce¡±


    Josie recalled, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t have time to arrange it, so you can bring him out in the next two days and have him stay at


    Mason Garden. Dexter suggested.


    Josie understood there was a conflict between Wyatt and Dexter, and she was caught in the middle.


    She realized that her father¡¯s safety could bepromised.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Josie fixated on the license te as the vehicle sped away, staring into the distance.


    The way udia stared at her earlier always sent shivers down her spine.


    She couldn¡¯t help but feel uneasy that the Catholic rosaries udia had given her were now in Dexter¡¯s


    possession.


    Josie sighed as she reminisced about the time they had supported each other. She had decided to


    apologize and provide an exnation.


    Nevertheless, her utmost concerny with Dexter¡¯s well-being.


    As the driver swiftly pulled up, Josie heard her name being called. She turned around, facing away


    from the morning sun, and was surprised to see Arnold standing on the doorstep. Bathed in the gentle


    he exuded a calm and unmistakable presence.


    ¡°If Mrs. Carter finds out I¡¯m out here with you, it could cause quite a scene,¡± she warned.


    Josie reclinedzily in the back of the Bentley, pretending to doze off.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it exciting?¡± Arnold teased. ¡°On the surface, we appear as two respectable people romantically


    attached to someone else, and the next, we are engaged in a ndestine rtionship.¡±


    Josie remained unfazed. ¡°Mr. Carter, your tastes are quite peculiar.¡±


    I do enjoy a bit of excitement. It seems like Dexter hasn¡¯t told you yet,¡± he responded with a leering


    smile.


    Josie raised her brow as she recalled Wyatt¡¯s words from the previous day


    Fueled by resentment and vindictiveness, Arnold Carter was capable of anything. Beneath his


    composed fa?ade the heart of a wolf lurked, forever vignt for the right moment to unleash us fury


    Josie pursed her lips and replied. ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve had a taste of that¡±


    The car drove along a long street and came to a sudden halt. They arrived at a ce Josie hain; been


    before. It wasn¡¯t a construction ute, but there were towering walls on either side, engng thests with


    stifling silence. There was no one else in sight.


    As Josie peered ahead, she was taken aback by a tightly locked gate that looked like a prison.


    She immediately realized what was happening. She looked at Arnold warily and asked, ¡°Why did you


    bring me here?¡±


    It was the Southern Wavery Prison, where Arnold¡¯s father was incarcerated


    Why are you so nervous? I didn¡¯t ask you to see him,¡± Arnold said with a slight smirk ying on his lips.


    Instead of leaving the car, he leaned back in the rear seat and nonchntly remarked, ¡°You witnessed


    my position in the Olsen family earlier at the hospital.¡±


    Images shed through Josie¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Undervalued, distrusted, unrecognized,¡± Arnold drummed intermittently, his fingers on his leg.


    Josie¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°You chose this path yourself, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Arnold locked his gaze into her dark eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t want to marry Summer.¡±


    This bold statement caught Josie off guard.


    ¡°Or rather, I am marrying not Summer but the might and influence of the Olsen family,¡± Arnold chuckled


    sinisterly. The person locked inside there-that¡¯s what he truly desires from me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed deeper. ¡°Arnold, this isn¡¯t what you truly want. You still have a chance to turn


    back. ¡°It¡¯s toote. Vengeance is the only thing that has defined me from childhood until now.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Silence hung in the air.


    A smirk yed on Arnold¡¯s lips as he propped up his legs. ¡°The Olsens may scorn me now, but it won¡¯t


    be long before I have them on their knees, begging for my mercy.¡±


    His words were so convincing that it was impossible to doubt him.

 Chapter 642

    Chapter 642


    Chapter 642 Like a Battlefield


    ¡®Arnold. I¡¯m not in a position to ask you to let bygones be bygones. But your father has done something


    wrong, hasn¡¯t he?¡±


    Arnold turned around and smiled wryly as though he just heard a joke ¡°Time¡¯s up. I have to visit him


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    now.¡±


    The prison door opened slowly. Before Josie could make out what was going on. he disappeared.


    She gripped her phone tightly and typed out a message. After making a couple of amendments, she


    finally sent it out. I¡¯m still curious-what did Arnold¡¯s father do to deserve imprisonment for life¡±


    Has he boarded the ne? She wondered.


    Five minutester, she received a lengthy voice message.


    ording to Dexter, Carter Group and Russell Group werepetitors. After his father took over


    Russell Group, he didn¡¯t mind sacrificing his pride for the development of hispany. He waited at


    the door of Carter Residence for a month before the head of the Carter family agreed to work together.


    Back then, Yanis was still in thepany. He didn¡¯t like the Carter Group and yed several tricks to


    sabotage them, resulting in the suicide of the head of the Carter family.


    It was already toote when Dexter¡¯s father uncovered the truth.


    When Arnold¡¯s father took control of thepany, he ced some spies in Russell Group to take


    revenge. It led to internal crises within thepany that caused Dexter¡¯s father to suddenly die from a


    heart attack.


    Dexter was studying abroad when that happened. In order to take over Russell Group, he finished his


    studies in six months and took full responsibility for thepany upon returning.


    However, there were still some remaining spies in thepany that took advantage of thepany¡¯s


    instability to siphon hundreds of millions away.


    Unexpectedly, Dexter was not easy to deal with. He immediately sniffed out the spy and found the


    evidence that sent Arnold¡¯s father to prison.


    As the sum of money was astronomical, he was sentenced to life imprisonment.


    Dexter was decisive and meticulous ¨C he didn¡¯t leave any loophole for Arnold to be able to bail his


    father


    out


    After hearing theplete story, Josie finally understood that the roots of revenge go deep within the


    two families


    Each had their own justifications for taking revenge, but the source of everything was Yanis


    After such a long time, we no longer know what the root cause is, and we are unable to clear things up


    anymore. Dexter replied.


    A heasy weight hung on Josie¡¯s heart when she heard that Business was like a battlefield, cach


    decision would change one¡¯s life.


    Dexter and Arnold were both actually innocent.


    1.2


    Why are you suddenly asking about this?¡±


    You talked about Wyatt before you left, which led me to think about this.


    Tm boarding the ne now. Talkter.


    Josie locked her phone and continued looking at the prison door. ¡°Does Mr. Carter visit often?¡± she


    asked


    the driver.


    The driver observed her vigntly. He seemed to conclude that she had a special connection to Arnold


    and replied, ¡°Around once every two months. He would usually visit in the middle of the month.


    While Josie was calcting the dates, Arnold walked out in a ck coat. He looked terribly lonely as he


    walked on the streets with his hands in his pockets.


    It was rare for him to wear dark-colored clothes.


    ¡°Why are you back so soon?¡± Josie asked.


    Arnold opened a bottle of water and took a sip. ¡°How long do you want me to stay?¡±


    Josie fell silent.


    ¡°He¡¯s going to be ted for the next two months after hearing about my marriage with Summer.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips into a thin line, not knowing what else to say.


    ¡°By the way, he seems to age much quicker behind bars. As months pass, I can barely recognize him.¡±


    The car started moving again. Josie seemed distant when she interjected suddenly, ¡°You met Wyatt.¡±

 Chapter 643

    Chapter 643


    Chapter 643 Be My Lover


    Arnold narrowed his eyes at her it was a statement.


    ¡°After leaving Mason Garden yesterday, I assume he went to your ce.¡± Josie¡¯s expression became


    more animated. She supported her chin with her hand and continued, ¡°Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t bring


    me here.¡±


    Arnold looked at her solemnly before suddenly chuckling. ¡°Why don¡¯t you assume this is all a n to


    sabotage your rtionship with your husband after seeing how lovey-dovey you guys were from the


    unexpected encounter at the hospital?¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile slowly disappeared.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m capable of that?¡±


    ¡°What did Wyatt want? Let me guess¡­. he wants to pledge his allegiance to you, doesn¡¯t he?¡± Josie


    directed her question at him without giving a response.


    Arnold retracted his yful gaze. ¡°He didn¡¯t say anything.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t believe him.


    ¡°He dragged his sick body to my turf. Without even saying anything, I can guess what he wants from


    the position he¡¯s in.¡±


    There was a ring of truth in it.


    ¡°Forget it. He is only going to be the sacrifice. Don¡¯t use him, Arnold,¡± Josie replied solemnly.


    ??


    As sunlight fell onto her face through the shades of the trees, Arnold¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He


    caressed her face as he asked, ¡°Are you pleading with me?¡±


    Josie wanted to avoid him, but her face was locked in his hands.


    ¡°You used to be the sacrifice, too. But look at you now you¡¯re living a good life, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    He seemed to be obsessed with her soft skin.


    ¡°We¡¯re different.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡± he retorted instantly.


    She tolerated his hold, unable to get away from him. ¡°Wyatt is a young man full of potential. All he


    needs is an opportunity not to be used by others.¡±


    |||


    O


    J


    1/9


    ¡°But he¡¯s obsessed right now. You can¡¯t change his mind.¡±


    ¡°Arnold-


    ¦§


    ¡°Are you begging me to help him? If so, you should look more like it. Since Dexter is not in Wavery


    now, why don¡¯t you be my lover?¡±


    The smile widened on his face, with genuine joy sparkling in his eyes.


    However, the same smile was a terrifying sight to Josie. She suddenly lifted her hand and pped his


    checks. ¡°Do you know what you are talking about, Arnold?¡±


    His lover? How could he even utter those words?


    Still, the p did nothing to bring Arnold back to his senses. Instead, he recalled the intimacy between


    Josie and Dexter in the ward and became even more incensed. With veins throbbing at the back of his


    hand, he was close to making a decision.


    ¡°Be my lover I can give you money and intel. All you need to do is spend time with met whenever


    Dexter is away. I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a lot to ask for.¡± Arnold pinched her cheeks until they turned red. At


    that moment, he had deserted morality and societal norms.


    Josie red up upon hearing that. A strong urge to p him surged within her fury.


    ¡°Let me go! I want to get out of this car!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no hurry, Josie. Perhaps Dexter and Summer also have this agreement without your


    knowledge. Yet, you treat me as though I¡¯m the worst. Isn¡¯t it unfair?¡± Arnold raised his voice.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Nonsense! He wouldn¡¯t do that!¡± she yelled back. She could not tolerate her marriage being tarnished


    by him in this manner and ced her hands in front of her to protect herself.


    ¡°Stop the car! Right now!¡± she bellowed at the driver, who didn¡¯t know what to do..


    He observed Arnold¡¯s expression quietly. Eventually, thetter seemed to have returned to his senses


    as he slowly let go of Josie.


    The car stopped.


    ¡°Arnold, I don¡¯t have the time to y sick games with you. Don¡¯t drag me down with you, even if you¡¯re


    unhappy with Summer. You disgust me!¡± she spat and took her bag before leaving.

 Chapter 644

    Chapter 644


    Chapter 644 Forgot About Him


    Infuriated by Arnold, Josie sped away in disgust and fury.


    Arnold sank back in his seat and shut his eyes.


    The driver was at a loss on what to do next. Nothing seemed right to him. ¡°Mr. Carter, er-¡±


    When he opened his eyes again, Josie was gone from his sight. He picked up the water bottle and


    emptied the contents over his head to clear his mind.


    ¡°Go back to the office,¡± he barked grimly.


    On the other hand, Josie stormed back to her office with trembling hands. A wave of disgust overcame


    her whenever she recalled Arnold¡¯s disrespectful behavior.


    She had always regarded him as a righteous gentleman who knew his boundaries. If it weren¡¯t for our


    conflicting positions, I thought we could be friends. I can¡¯t believe the words he just spewed today. Be


    his lover? How could he bring himself to say that?


    ¡°Ms. Warren, what¡¯s wrong?¡± one of the employees asked upon bumping into her.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± She entered the washroom and stared at her reflection.


    Is this his true character from the beginning? she wondered. She couldn¡¯t forget his passionate gaze


    moments ago. Leaning against the wall, she felt palpitations rolling in her veins along. with an ominous


    feeling that began to coil around her.


    She walked out of the bathroom after she had finally calmed down.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to follow up with the project from Carter Group. Jade, take it up with Angel,¡± she


    announced.


    Since she was their boss, no one had any objections, including Jade.


    After all, this was an excellent opportunity for him to gain new experience. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Josie nced at Laura¡¯s empty office. ¡°How long has she been absent?¡±


    ¡°A couple of days.¡±


    She nodded and sent a message to Laura.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°This morning, I heard that Zach will return to Wavery soon. Take care!¡¯


    If that were true, an imminent storm would soon blow over town. All she could do was give


    1/2


    O


    J


    Laura a heads-up so she could avoid it.


    Then, she left the office. While she was in the elevator, she called Paul.


    ¡°Pops, are you at home?¡±


    ¡°Me? I¡¯m at the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Hospital? What are you doing there?¡± she asked nervously.


    ¡°Your memory is worse than mine, youngdy. I¡¯m having a check-up today.¡±


    Josie pped her forehead. ¡°Oh, right. Ipletely forgot about that. Are you alone? Is Justin with


    you?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to bother yourselves with me; I know you guys are busy. I¡¯m almost fully recovered,


    and I can go to the check-up alone.¡±


    There was some background noise from his end, making it clear that he was at the hospital.


    Josie panicked. ¡°Pops, send me your location. I¡¯ll pick you up now. Don¡¯t wander around, okay?¡±


    ¡°Silly girl, I¡¯m not a five-year-old. But I¡¯ll wait for you here, alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes, just wait for me. The outside world is chaotic. Don¡¯t let me lose you again.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay,¡± he replied gently.


    The doctor called his number as he ended the call, and he slowly made his way to the ward. His


    memory was not as good as before, but he was very familiar with the hospital.


    Perhaps it¡¯s because I¡¯ve been staying there for the past few years, he spected cheerfully.


    Meanwhile, Josie called her designated driver to go to the hospital while she hailed a cab


    there.


    I¡¯m not a responsible daughter. I forgot all about Pops because of how busy I am. After he joins us at


    Mason Garden, I will take good care of him.

 Chapter 645

    Chapter 645


    Chapter 645 Definitely


    Fifteen minutester, she finally arrived at the hospital and saw the driver waiting outside.


    ¡°Madam, your father is nowhere to be seen.¡±


    Which means he¡¯s still inside. She heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°No worries. I¡¯ll take a look inside.¡±


    She had a foreboding premonition without any particr reason. Hence, she informed Matthew that her


    father was going to have his check-up done at the hospital and asked him. to pay more attention to


    him.


    Matthew was pleasantly surprised to receive her call. ¡°Alright. Got it,¡± he replied after a pause.


    Josie went to the third floor. After leaving the elevator, she saw Paul and Matthew sitting on at bench in


    the corridor, chatting with each other.


    Paul looked safe and sound.


    Upon seeing that, she heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Dad.¡±


    Both of them smiled when they saw her. ¡°See? Jo is so paranoid. I mean, I can¡¯t possibly vanish into


    thin air, can I? Sorry to bother you, Matthew.¡±


    Matthew smiled and helped him stand up. ¡°Jo is just worried about you. All children do that.¡±


    Josie thanked him immediately, though with some embarrassment. ¡°Thanks, Matt. I think I¡¯m too


    paranoid.¡±


    It had been a while since they met each other. An air of awkwardness hung between them.


    Matthew avoided her gaze as they spoke. ¡°It¡¯s nothing at all. Mr. Warren was my patient, after all. He


    passed a copy of Paul¡¯s medical history to Josie. ¡°I¡¯ve just checked the report everything looks good.


    Still, he should focus on rehabilitation.¡±


    Josie took it from him and winked slyly at her father. ¡°Did you hear that? This is doctor¡¯s


    orders.¡±


    Paul chuckled. ¡°Isn¡¯t today a working day? Why are you here?¡±


    His question suddenly reminded Josie of her encounter with Arnold earlier that day. She shook her


    head in annoyance and exined, ¡°I¡¯m my own boss now. Whether it¡¯s a work day or not, it doesn¡¯t


    matter. Your health is more of a priority than my work.¡±


    Paul and Matthew smiled at each other. Though Josie had matured, she was still a cheeky and


    vivacious young girl.


    Matthew¡¯s smile slowly faded as he asked, ¡°You started apany?¡±


    They rarely spoke to each other nowadays, so he had no clue. She nodded awkwardly. ¡°Not a


    company. It¡¯s just a studio for illustration.¡±


    He nodded, but she couldn¡¯t see the expression on his face.


    Paul was a bright person. He could tell the underlying emotions between them and quipped, ¡°I¡¯m going


    to the washroom.¡±


    ¡°Wha-¡±


    ¡°I know my way around here.¡± With that, he walked out of the room, leaving Josie and Matthew alone.


    She bit her lipsText ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    lore asking, ¡°Matt, how have y


    you been?¡±


    ¡°Same old, same old. On the contrary, I hear a lot of news about you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    It was still hard for him to wrap his head around the fact that the young, innocent girl back. then had


    already be someone else¡¯s wife, taking up important responsibilities and living. in the limelight.


    ¡°Do I feel like a stranger to you now?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Matthew replied instantly. ¡°I know you will have to experience this anyway. I¡¯m d that you¡¯ve


    matured.¡±


    They exchanged nces, and she could tell the love he once had for her had vanished. Instead, he


    looked slightly lost and dazed. I bet he has left many things behind after such a long


    time.


    ¡°I¡¯m happy for you, too,¡± she added.


    The old friends, who had known each other since way back, understood each other in their


    smiles.

 Chapter 646

    Chapter 646


    Chapter 646 Hit It Off


    ¡°How¡¯s your friend doing? Is she better?¡± Matthew asked.


    Josie froze before realizing he was referring to Laura¡¯s psychiatrist. She scrutinized Matthew carefully


    and concluded that he didn¡¯t know about Morgan¡¯s background.


    ¡°Yes. The psychiatrist is quite skillful indeed. It was a lot of help.¡±


    Matthew nodded. ¡°Good. He¡¯s a genius banker at Wall Street; psychiatry is only his second job. Still,


    he¡¯s trustworthy.¡±


    Looks like he knows Morgan well. Morgan didn¡¯t hide anything from Matthew.


    Josie asked tentatively, ¡°How did you guys meet?¡±


    ¡°We are¡­ from the same university.¡± Matthew took a trip down memoryne. ¡°Two years ago, I had a


    patient from abroad, and he¡¯s the family member of the patient. We hit it off from the beginning and


    became friends.¡±


    I see. Hmm¡­ from that information, I can¡¯t tell if Morgan is trying to get closer to Matthew on purpose.


    Still, the coincidence is pretty suspicious.


    ¡°From the same university?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Didn¡¯t you know? He used to be the most popr person in Wavery University. Unfortunately,


    when I went to Wavery as an exchange student, he left for another university abroad. I didn¡¯t get to


    witness the peak of his poprity back then,¡± he exined wistfully.


    Josie finally recalled that the first time she met Matthew was after Morgan¡¯s departure.


    She had an indecipherable expression on her face. Fortunately, Matthew wasn¡¯t there. Otherwise, he


    would have known I was Morgan¡¯s ex-girlfriend.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked after seeing her silence.


    Just as Paul walked out of the washroom, Josie shook her head. ¡°Nothing. We are leaving soon. See


    you around, Matt.¡±


    He raised his head and looked at the corridor. ¡°I hope we won¡¯t be seeing each other in the hospital the


    next time.¡±


    Josie chortled at his witty remark.


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty happy at the ce you rented for me. It¡¯s also convenient for Old Mr. Russell to visit. Why


    should I move?¡±


    In the car, Paul protested when he heard Josie¡¯s suggestion.


    ¡°What¡¯s good about that ce? It¡¯s quiet, but you¡¯re on the tenth floor. Grandpa has to take the elevator


    every time. it¡¯s too troublesome! If you live with us, it will be convenient for him to visit.¡±


    Josie fabricated an excuse, hiding the fact that thendlord turned back on his promise.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong about taking the elevator?¡± Paul asked, confused.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s¡­ a waste of time!¡±


    ¡°Kiddo¡­¡± Paul shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t mind staying with you guys for a few days, but this can¡¯t be a long-


    term solution. I¡¯m not used to it.¡±


    Upon hearing his reply, Josie lied, ¡°Sure. If you can¡¯t get used to it, I¡¯ll find another ce for you.¡±


    Paul finally looked relieved upon hearing that.


    By the time they arrived at Mason Garden, the maids had already prepared the room for Paul.


    He grew up in a typical middle-ss family. Never had he experienced having maids and servants, nor


    had he stayed in such a huge mansion. On top of that, there was a garden and ake behind the


    house. The surroundings were exceptional.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Nevertheless, he wasn¡¯t happy about hisvish amodation. Instead, he looked troubled.


    In the evening, when Josie was about to have a chat with Paul, she saw him staring nkly at the


    balcony.


    ¡°Pops, what¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    He returned to his senses and looked at her. ¡°Jo, these things are alien to me.¡±


    Josie was stunned for a moment before his words sank in. ¡°Do you think I¡¯ve changed?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that, but I¡¯ve changed.¡± Paul waved and motioned her to sit. ¡°Where¡¯s he?¡±


    They both understood who he was referring to.


    Josie took a seat across from him and replied, ¡°He¡¯s on a business trip to Rivodia.¡±

 Chapter 647

    Chapter 647


    Chapter 647 The Bastille Family¡¯s New Mall


    ¡°Rivodia¡­ It¡¯s an old ce.¡± Paul mumbled.


    Josie didn¡¯t hear him clearly. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Paul lifted his head and asked worriedly, ¡°Does he know you brought me here? If you act


    without permission, I¡¯m afraid he might be upset.¡±


    Only then did Josie understand what Paul was concerned about. She smiled and said, ¡°Pop, you¡¯re


    overthinking. It was he who reminded me to bring you over. He¡¯s d that you¡¯re here.¡±


    Paul remained doubtful. ¡°I¡¯ve had a few encounters with him. He¡¯s someone who¡¯s going to achieve


    great things and is much more dependable than the guy you dated in college. You must have suffered


    quite a bit to stay with someone like him.¡±


    Dexter was destined to shine and would naturally have many enemies. As his wife, Josie would


    inevitably be targeted too.


    Paul was a wise man and could see through many things.


    ¡°They said your brain became slower after you got sick, but I think you¡¯re still very shrewd to be able to


    think of that.¡± Josie teased Paul while propping her head with one hand.


    Paul was displeased and pushed her. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m being serious here.¡±


    ¡°There, there.¡± Josie held Paul¡¯s mottled hand and assured him. ¡°Just stay here and don¡¯t worry about


    anything else. Let me see you daily so I can put my mind at ease.¡±


    Paul scrutinized Josie and became more relieved upon perceiving that she wasn¡¯t forcing herself to put


    on an act.


    Afterforting Paul, Josie returned to the master bedroom and made a video call to Dexter. When


    Dexter picked up the call ten secondster, Josie could tell he was in the car from the fleeting shadows.


    ¡°Hey, I hope I¡¯m not disturbing you at this hour.¡± Josie was lying in bed.


    ¡°Nope. My dinner appointment just ended, and I¡¯m heading back to the hotel now.¡± Dexter¡¯s tired


    expression relieved much after seeing Josie.


    Josie nodded and informed him that she had brought Paul to Mason Garden.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. Wyatt is at the end of his rope and would likely go after your father.¡±


    O


    {¡±


    1/2


    Cupping her face with her hands, Josie asked, ¡°Will Wyatt really go to Arnold for help? After all, there


    are grudges between him and the Carters.¡±


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°No one in this world willpletely rely on another person. They¡¯ll only use each other. By the way, I¡¯ll


    probably stay in Rivodia for three days.¡± Dexter said indifferently.


    ¡°A day without you is like a year without rain.¡± Josie purred with a grin.


    Dexter was amused. ¡°Where did you learn that from?¡±


    ¡°I mean it.¡±


    The couple chatted for a while before ending the call. Dexter¡¯s fatigue faded away after the call. He put


    his phone aside and lifted his eyes to see a bustling mall not far away.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, this is S&A Mall, a newly opened business under the Bastille family.¡±.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes flickered. ¡°Let¡¯s go in and get a gift for Jo.¡±


    A chill ran down Larry¡¯s spine. How strange Dexter is to pick a gift for Josie at her ex- boyfriend¡¯s mall.


    The Bastille family¡¯s businesses rarely involved the real economy. This first mall was opened on the


    Bastilles¡¯ own territory as a means of test marketing.


    They had invited famous designers from overseas to design the arc-shaped building. The mall was an


    enve of various luxury brands, which showed that the Bastille family had an impressivework.


    The mall was crowded with people. An opening ceremony was ongoing at the central court. A tall man


    dressed in a white suit spoke into the microphone. ¡°Wee to S&A Mall,dies and gentlemen.


    Thank you for your support.¡±


    A thunder of apuse broke out. Most patrons were the rich and socialites with considerable spending


    power.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard the young master of the Bastille family has returned to Rivodia, but I didn¡¯t. expect to meet


    him here.¡±

 Chapter 648

    Chapter 648


    Chapter 648 A Reencounter


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mm-hmm. I heard he¡¯s still not married. He seems to be an ambitious man¡±


    Surrounded by the noisy crowd, Dexter frowned in disgust. ¡°This is no different from a wet market¡±


    Larry couldn¡¯t helpughing.


    As the opening ceremony ended, a few staff escorted Morgan down the stage while the spotlight


    continued shining on him.


    Dexter suddenly asked, ¡°Is he younger than me?¡±


    Morgan and Josie were the same age. While they were still studying at university. Dexter already took


    over the Russell Group.


    ¡°He¡¯s just a young imp and is no match for you.¡±


    ¡°He was fearless and imposing when he confronted me, which reminded me of myself back in the day.¡±


    Larry was at a loss for words.


    Momentster, Larry disappeared from their sight. ¡°Would you like to continue shopping?¡± Larry asked.


    Dexter took out his phone to see Josie¡¯s message, asking for the pair of high-heels in Valentino¡¯stest


    collection.


    It is said that Valentino knows men¡¯s taste best. I¡¯m sure the high heels will look great on me. I wonder


    if you¡¯ll like it.¡±


    Dexter smiled. The mischievous woman loved seducing him over texts but was modest when facing


    him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s walk around.¡±


    Upon arriving at Valentino¡¯s shop, they looked through the ss door to see a few socialites trying on


    shoes and arrogantly picking on the staff.


    A slender woman was kneeling on the ground, helping one of thedies with the shoes. Thedy


    seemed to be displeased and yelled all of a sudden, ¡°Ouch! You hurt me!¡±


    She kicked the staff in the chest before rubbing her ankle.


    111


    1/2


    The staff fell to the side and was hurt by thedy¡¯s heel, but she didn¡¯tin and quickly stood up.


    Tm so sorry. It was my mistake. Please let me clean it up for you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so clumsy. How did you qualify as a salesperson? My legs are insured. You can¡¯t afford to


    compensate me for any injuries!¡± The salesperson lowered her head helplessly.


    ¡°Get your manager here. I can¡¯t just let this matter slide.¡±


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯m very sorry. I¡­¡±


    Just then, the manager walked out of the store room and said. ¡°I¡¯m the manager. So sorry for our staff¡¯s


    mistake. How can we make it up for you?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t your staff receive proper training? How could she make such a stupid mistake? Mind you. I


    heard Mr. Bastille is hanging around in the mall today. Do you think your store can stay open if this


    matter alerts him?¡± The woman threatened aggressively.


    The manager was a bundle of nerves and nudged at the salesperson. ¡°Quickly apologize to the


    customer!¡±


    The manager pushed the salesperson to another side, which allowed Dexter to see her face. clearly. At


    once, he furrowed his brows and cast a nce at Larry.


    Larry panicked and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t know she was working here¡­¡±


    It was Heather.


    She apologized to the customer in a servile manner and looked pitiful with tears brimming in her eyes.


    Dexter loosened his tie to ease his frustration. ¡°Go and settle it.¡±


    Then, he left the mall and got into the car. I¡¯d rather you don¡¯t wear it. He replied to Josie¡¯s


    message.


    On the other hand, Larry entered the store and rebuked the woman, ¡°Mr. Bastille wouldn¡¯t favor


    someone who deliberately picks on the staff.¡±


    The woman was caught off guard. Her face reddened in embarrassment as she left with her


    companions. ¡°What the heck are you talking about?!¡±


    Meanwhile, Heather was shocked to see Larry.

 Chapter 649

    Chapter 649


    Chapter 649 Gleaning Information


    Larry took out a credit card. ¡°Give me a pair of high-heels in thetest collection¡±


    He was anxious when he returned to the car with the shoes. Tm sorry, Mr. Russell. I didn¡¯t know


    Heather was working here.¡±


    She was indeed sent back to Rivodia, but they didn¡¯t expect her to appear on Morgan¡¯s turf.


    Dexter¡¯s face was darkened, indicating his displeasure. ¡®Did anyone notice the episode today?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. I¡¯ll investigate if this has any connection with Morgan once we get back.¡± Larry


    answered.


    Heather was previously a spy for Arnold and participated in many of his ns, so she was not an


    ordinary person. Now that she worked in the Bastilles¡¯ mall, it was natural for Dexter to be


    suspicious.


    ¡°Go look into it as soon as possible.¡±


    When the car engine started, Dexter casually raised his eyes to see Heather running out from the mall,


    but she was toote and could only watch the car drive away.


    Perceiving her disappointed look, Dexter averted his gaze.


    When Josie woke up and saw Dexter¡¯s reply the next day, she blushed to the root of her hair.


    On the other hand, Laura had not replied to her message yet. Josie inhaled deeply and decided that


    she had no choice but to trouble Arnold. She pondered upon it for a moment before calling Mrs.


    Langman. ¡°Hi, Mrs. Langman. Are you avable today?¡±


    They met at the same rooftop cafe as before. Sitting across from Josie, Mrs. Langman held. her coffee


    cup elegantly. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you won¡¯te to me for trivial matters. Why did you ask me out this


    time?¡±


    Josie smiled. Tm here to bring you some news.¡±


    ¡°What news is it?¡±


    ¡°I believe the project in Northern Wavery is under Mr. Langman¡¯s management, right? There are some


    issues with the project.¡± Josie was in the same industry, so the news reached her in a short time.


    She handed over a document to Mrs. Langman, who was flustered. ¡°Some people are attempting to


    sabotage Mr. Langman in the quality inspection.¡±


    1/2


    <


    Mrs. Langman opened the envelope panickedly and was shocked after reading it. ¡°You¡¯re right. He¡¯ll be


    in trouble if this is exposed at ater stage.¡±


    Jour uttered, ¡°Since you know the source of the issue now, any potential problems can be avoided if


    immediate actions are taken.¡±


    Mrs. Langman smiled. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie put down her coffee cup, which gave a crisp sound when it hit the ss table.


    ¡°May I ask for a favor, Mrs. Langman?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Can you help me find out when exactly Zach Olsen returned to Wavery? It shouldn¡¯t be difficult for


    you.¡±


    Mrs. Langman mingled in the upper circle, so it was a piece of cake for her to glean


    information.


    Mrs. Langman roughly understood Josie¡¯s intention. She raised her eyebrows andmented, ¡°It


    seems like you and Mr. Russell are on the same side now.¡±


    Josie smiled and didn¡¯t specify who it was for


    In fact, Zach¡¯s return to Wavery had its pros and cons. For Dexter, there were many things he could do


    to Zach; but it was a disaster for Laura.


    Josie couldn¡¯t decide who to side with but was more concerned about Laura¡¯s situation


    She would be more relieved if Laura could find a safe shelter¡­.


    At Wavery.


    The morning sunlight streamed through the window as Dexter adjusted his attire in front of the mirror


    while listening to Larry¡¯s report.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s all for today¡¯s schedule.¡± Larry closed the file and added. ¡°I looked into the matter Heather¡¯s job


    in S&A Mall has nothing to do with Morgan. They don¡¯t know each other and never have interactions.


    Yesterday¡¯s incident was merely a coincidence.¡±


    Dexter looked at himself in the mirror and said, ¡°Keep an eye on them. I want to see how things unfold.¡±

 Chapter 650

    Chapter 650


    Chapter 650 An Old Picture


    Angel and Jade were closely monitoring the Carter Group¡¯s project, so Josie could keep her hands off


    and have more free time than she was used to.


    ¡°Call me immediately if there¡¯s anything you can¡¯t decide. She instructed Angel and Jade. Apart from


    the project, she didn¡¯t want to have any other interactions with Arnold.


    The weather was pleasant on that day. Josie returned to Mason Garden and saw Julie and Paul


    walking back to the vi after a stroll outside. They were close in age and looked harmonious.


    When Julie saw Josie, she immediately said, ¡°Madam. The weather is pretty good today, so I brought


    Mr. Warren out for a walk.¡±


    Paul quickly exined, ¡°I wanted toe out for a walk. It¡¯s not her fault.¡±


    Amused, Josie crossed her arms and teased, ¡°Pop. I haven¡¯t even said anything, yet you instantly


    defended Mrs. Carroll.¡±


    Her yful remark made the two elders blush. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? We¡¯re not young


    anymore.¡±


    Josie took Paul¡¯s hand from Julie and supported him to walk into the house. I¡¯m just kidding. Why so


    serious?¡±


    Paul gave her a stern look, which made her surrender with both hands. ¡°Okay, okay. I¡¯ll stop.¡±


    Josie and Paul sat in the yard, basking in the sun. ¡°It has been a few days. When is heing back?¡±


    Paul asked out of the blue.


    Josie chuckled. ¡°Who are you referring to?¡±


    ¡°Ugh! Dexter!¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you call him by his name? When I was in university back then, you also called. Morgan


    ¡®your friend. You¡¯re so protective of your daughter.¡± Josie chaffed.


    From how Josie mentioned Morgan naturally, Paul could tell she hadpletely gotten over him.


    ¡°You¡¯re my precious daughter. How could I not be angry to see him bully you?¡± Leaning on his cane,


    Paul wore a proud expression.


    Josie appreciated the presence of her humorous father all the more.


    |||


    1/2


    <


    ¡°He¡¯ll be back tomorrow, ortest, by the day after, Josie replied after counting the days on her fingers.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Paul was relieved to hear the reply. He looked closely at Josie under the sunlight and was reminded of


    something from long ago.


    Seeing Paul lost in thought, Josie asked curiously. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?


    ¡°Nothing. I just remembered that you were so small when I brought you home back then. Time flies.


    You¡¯ve now grown into an adult. Paul made a gesture: his aging eyes were full of nostalgia.


    Josie smiled bitterly. Indeed, everything had passed in the blink of an eye. ¡°How was I like when I was


    young? Was I naughty?¡±


    Josie had a faint memory of her childhood.


    Paul shook his head. ¡°You were very well-behaved, unlike other children your age. You were often on


    your own. One could hardly believe a child at that age could be so obedient.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t imagine herself being well-behaved.


    It was a sunny day, so Julie took out some old items to dust them off. Josie went to assist her and


    identally spotted a framed picture of Liana, the woman who was once the apple of Dexter¡¯s eye.


    Julie panicked. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t know the picture was kept here.¡±


    Josie picked up the frame and wiped the dust, so the picture could be seen clearer. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s


    dirty. I¡¯ll wipe it clean.¡±


    At this stage, she wasn¡¯t bothered by Dexter¡¯s past rtionship as much as before. After all, it had


    be the past for both her and Dexter.


    Paul nced in Josie¡¯s direction and was stunned when he saw the picture. He rubbed his eyes and


    gasped in disbelief, ¡°Why is this picture here?¡±


    Josie was holding Liana¡¯s picture in her hand.


    She waved the picture andmented mischievously, ¡°Don¡¯t you think we look alike?¡±


    111

 Chapter 651

    Chapter 651


    Chapter 651 He Wanted to Give Her a Home


    Paul furrowed his white brows and looked closer at the picture. He became bbergasted when he


    gazed at Josie again, who was grinning widely.


    Josie tilted her head. ¡°I thought she resembled me too when I first saw her picture. Not just me, but


    many others think so too. Unfortunately, I don¡¯t have a picture of myself when I was younger. Pop, do


    you remember how I looked when I was young?¡±


    In the picture, Liana stood on a green pasture under the sunlight, beaming from ear to ear. Her aura


    differed from Josie, who used to be shy when she was a girl.


    Nheless, they looked like twins.


    Paul scrutinized the picture and wiped away the dust on it. ¡°You two look very alike¡­¡±


    Suddenly, Paul was reminded of the scene when he first saw Josie back then..


    That year, a nurse spotted a sick girl, aged around eight, outside the hospital. Her head was severely


    damaged. Paul was her doctor-in-charge, and she only regained consciousness half a monthter.


    When she woke up, she stared at Paul with a lost look. Her eyes were filled with confusion, yet they


    were bright and clear. ¡°Who are you? Where am I?¡± She asked timidly.


    Paul¡¯s heart softened at once.


    Even after the girl waspletely healed, the police couldn¡¯t find her family. The hospital specially held


    a discussion and came to no conclusion. Finally, Paul stood up and uttered in a moderate yet


    determined voice. ¡°I¡¯ll adopt the child and take care of her.¡±


    He was still young at that time, and his son was only five years old. So, no one expected he would


    voluntarily adopt the child.


    Later, some asked Paul why he did so. Paul answered with mixed emotions, ¡°I¡¯ve been looking after


    this child for a month, and I¡¯m the only one she knows. I can¡¯t bear to send her to the orphanage. I want


    to give her a home.¡±


    Jenny was dissatisfied with Paul¡¯s decision and became very harsh towards Josie.


    Paul thought he would return Josie to her parents if they came looking for her, but no one hade for


    her even after she graduated from university.


    As such, Paul raised Josie like his own daughter.


    Until now, he could remember Josie¡¯s appearance when she was young, which looked exactly


    like the girl in the picture.


    Paul¡¯s memory had deteriorated ever since he regained consciousness. The old memories. were


    especially shattered and sealed. When he suddenly remembered so many things in the past, he had a


    headache as his brain could not take the impact.


    ¡°Hey Pop, are you okay?¡±


    Josie was startled to see Paul¡¯s pale face and quickly helped him sit down.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this person in the picture? Is she from the Russell family?¡± Paul asked strangely.


    Josie frowned. ¡°No, she isn¡¯t. Is there something wrong? You look disturbed.¡±


    Paul heaved a sigh of relief when he heard the answer. ¡°Why is this picture here, then?¡± He asked.


    Josie hesitated. ¡°Uhmm¡­ That¡¯s Dexter¡¯s privacy. She¡¯s his childhood friend, not from the Russell


    family.¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Nodding in a daze, Paul ced the picture on the table and carefully examined it under the sunlight.


    His memories were blurred, and he couldn¡¯t make sense of some things. When he looked at the picture


    again, he thought the resemnce wasn¡¯t that strong.


    ¡°I see. You two look quite alike.¡±


    Josie smiled and signaled for Julie to keep the picture away. ¡°I wonder if we still look alike now that she


    has grown up.¡±


    After all, Liana was someone whom both Dexter and udia cared for. So, Josie hoped she was alive


    and well.

 Chapter 652

    Chapter 652


    Chapter 652 A Gift for Him


    ¡°My daughter definitely looks more beautiful.¡± Paul patted Josie¡¯s hand.


    Josie beamed back at him. She used to be envious when she saw how Summer¡¯s father cared. for her.


    She no longer had any reason to be envious.


    At Rivodia.


    On Dexter¡¯s final day there, hisst schedule was supervising part of the uing year¡¯s work goals


    for the branch. As night fell, the head branch apanied him at the banquet in Rivodia¡¯s liveliest


    ce.


    Three rounds of drinks went around. Dexter was not drunk. An executive from the branch offered him a


    cigarette. ¡°Mr. Russell, I heard that you love this brand Lelotus.¡±


    Dexter did not give him a single nce. ¡°I don¡¯t smoke anymore.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t smoke?¡± The man was taken aback and put the cigarettes away awkwardly.


    Dexter had always been careful of how much he drank. He was being courteous with the amount he


    had consumed today. Yet the others had not noticed his actions and discussed. where to go next.


    ¡°Rivodia¡¯skes are beautiful at night.¡±


    He kept silent and looked out the window. It was bustling outside. ¡°Even the ever-upright Rivodia has


    such ces.¡±


    The city was developed with business as the primary ie source. Although it was neither. a tourist


    nor a capital city, the number of agreements required for anything to be done was not easy to obtain in


    the slightest.


    A reply came immediately. ¡°Only the Bastille family have this privilege with their influence.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Arge taxpayer has the ability to do that.¡±


    Some began discussing in hushed voices. ¡°I heard that the second son of the family is back. here to


    compete for the spot as heir with the eldest son. He appeared at the newly opened. mall yesterday.


    Perhaps he was there to dere his


    presence.¡±


    ¡°What second son? He¡¯s an illegitimate son. All he has is his knowledge from a few years of studies.


    Does he have the ability to defeat Morgan with just that?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Morgan onlye back recently? Why is there suddenly such a situation?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you know? Morgan was born after his father¡¯s death. His mother only managed to get a position


    in the family with Morgan¡¯s presence.¡±


    ¡°Wow, the old man Bastille is incredible. How did he get an illegitimate child? They¡¯re probably only a


    few months apart.¡±


    Theyughed. Dexter had a half smile when he heard them.


    Morgan¡¯s mother had her n. When the man died, she quickly became a part of the family. She


    obtained a stable hold over a substantial portion of the businesses. All in the family. hoped that the


    baby she had would be a boy.


    And he was.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He even turned out to be a reliable son.


    ¡°What¡¯s the name of the second son?¡± He tilted his head slightly while asking Larry.


    ¡°Shawn Bastille.¡±


    ¡°Get me an appointment with him within two hours. I have a precious gift for him.¡±


    Larry only hesitated for a second. ¡°Will do, sir.¡±


    It seemed that Dexter nned to redeem back Russell Group¡¯s loss here.


    At Bulgari Hotel, a couple of sses of red wine were poured.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have known that the great Mr. Russell is here visiting if no one had told me.¡± The man¡¯s


    voice was soft. The golden sses framing his face twinkled as he entered with a gift bag. ¡°I¡¯ve only


    managed to prepare some little gifts. I hope that you will find it to your taste.


    Dexter gave him a nce. ¡°Mr. Bastille, you¡¯re an easy man to make an appointment with. I only been


    an hour, and you¡¯re here.¡±


    Shawn¡¯s expression stiffened at the sarcasm, but he kept civil. ¡°Of course, I wille when it¡¯s Mr.


    Russell¡¯s invitation. After all, those hoping to meet you could queue from here all th way to Wavery.¡±


    Dexter did not smile. ¡°You look quite anxious. I think I know how to soothe your anxiety.¡±


    Shawn¡¯s eyes twinkled. Anyone could see what he meant.


    ¡°Forgive me for asking, but why would you help me?¡±


    Dexter raised his ss. ¡°I¡¯m in a good mood today.¡±

 Chapter 653

    Chapter 653


    Chapter 653 The Same Birthdate


    A couple of hourster, Shawn left the room.


    Dexter stood watching at the window. Larry went up to him. ¡°Mr. Russell, do you think Mr. Bastille would


    do as you say?¡±


    ¡°His only hope now is to do what I told him to. I¡¯ve given him half a year to coborate with our


    company without him putting in any effort. He has the better end of the deal. He wouldn¡¯t even be able


    to go up against Morgan Bastille without this.¡± He ced the ss. down. ¡°Do you want to make a


    bet?¡±


    ¡°What is it for?¡±


    ¡°Within these six months, Shawn will force Morgan into a tight corner.¡±


    A devious smile stretched across his lips as though the image of the scene was ying out in his head.


    His


    eyes swept down as Shawn stepped out of the hotel. He did not leave after entering his car, probably


    checking something up.


    At that moment, Dexter¡¯s smile froze when he spotted a petite figure. Sitting in an open-air restaurant,


    she was dressed in a long white dress. A small cake was before her as she sped. her hands


    together with her eyes closed.


    Even though he could not see her face, Dexter immediately knew that she was Heather.


    Is it her birthday today?


    ¡°Is Heather¡¯s file still around?¡± he asked in a low voice.


    Larry was puzzled, but he brought it out quickly. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Dexter took it and nced at it, immediately noticing the date written near the top. It was the day¡¯s


    date.


    So, it is her birthday.


    She seemed to be delighted after making her wish. She cut the cake open and took her time eating it.


    Dexter¡¯s expression was mixed as he watched her finish the cake and left.


    Why is it today of all days¡­


    ¡°Does Heather know that I¡¯m staying here?¡± he was wary


    ¡°That¡¯s not possible. Our itinerary hasn¡¯t been disclosed to many.¡±


    He recalled a memory. At that moment, an absurd thought came to his mind.


    Today¡¯s Leanne¡¯s birthday too¡­.


    ¡°We¡¯ll head back to Wavery tomorrow.¡±


    Mrs. Langman received the news very swiftly. ¡°Zach Olsen is already in Wavery?


    Josie was specting about his first move. Would he go straight to the hospital?


    But not much time passed before it was revealed that he was helping Summer handle their family¡¯s


    matters. This disproved any news of him being ostracized.


    Did he go to help Summer? Josie was skeptical.


    Paul was bored while staying in Mason Garden. Josie nned to bring him along to visit Grandpa.


    It had been quite some time since she had seen him.


    The two chatted away like old friends. Josie let them be and went out for a walk.


    She hesitated after turning the corner but ultimately chose the road to Sousturham.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    udia would not be around. She seemed busy as she had been staying at the Olsen Residence for a


    while now.


    Josie stepped into the church. A priest greeted her. ¡°Peace be with you.¡±


    She nodded back under her cap. Her heart would feel calm whenever she was there.


    After standing in one spot for a while, she turned to leave, but a familiar figure caught her


    eyes.


    It was udia. She had a veil over her head. A man with a hat held his arm out to support her as they


    left the main sanctuary. They must have just finished a prayer meeting.


    Josie wanted to hide from them but could not do it in time.


    She had nowhere to hide when the two walked into her.


    At that very moment, Josie realized that the man under the hat was Zach.


    After disappearing from public sight for a while, his gaze had only be colder, and the air around


    him was cial.

 Chapter 654

    Chapter 654


    Chapter 654 Dexter Will Send You Behind Bars


    They stood in the garden behind the main building. Bored, Zach stood to a side while. looking at Josie.


    A chill ran down Josie¡¯s back. She could feel the stony look fixed on her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I gave the Bible that


    you gifted me to someone else. She brought the matter up after some time. contemting.


    udia took a deep breath as she watched the scenery. ¡°It¡¯s up to you what you do with the things


    gifted to you.¡±


    Josie felt choked up.


    udia turned to her. ¡°Don¡¯t regret your decisions.¡±


    udia¡¯s clear eyes were skilled at evaluating a person.


    Josie was nervous about meeting udia without any reason today. ¡°Is Mr. Olsen doing any. better?¡±


    udia averted her eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t need to bring it up if you don¡¯t care about it.¡±


    Josie felt a lump in her throat. Although udia was aloof when they first met, Josie thought she was


    still considerate. Yet now, she seemedpletely unconcerned.


    ¡°You know me well.¡± Josie nodded.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like ttering others. That¡¯s why you have no reason to force yourself to do anything you


    don¡¯t want, like visiting Mark. Dexter has a rtionship that he cannot end. with us. It¡¯s not the same for


    you.¡± udia pointed it out clearly, leaving no room for dispute.


    The bridge in Dexter and the Olsen family¡¯s rtionship was none other than Summer.


    Josie understood that udia wanted to keep her out. ¡°Mrs. Hadey, are you trying to protect


    me?¡±


    There was a look ofpassion in udia¡¯s eyes, but she did not answer Josie¡¯s question directly.


    ¡°You¡¯re worried that I would be hurt and hope I won¡¯t have much to do with the Olsen. family, right?¡±


    Josie was not being narcissistic. She knew udia very well.


    ¡°You¡¯re free to think that way.¡± udia turned and left.


    Josie was rooted to her spot while watching her go.


    However, Zach did not follow her. He continued staring at Josie with his piercing gaze.


    Unafraid, Josie stared back at him.


    He took a few steps toward her with his hands in his pockets. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Mrs. Russell to be this


    capable. I can¡¯t believe that you know my mother personally.¡±


    She quirked a brow. ¡°That¡¯s true. I do have my capabilities. But you, on the other hand, the only thing


    you know is to raise a hand against women. What an act of bravery, huh?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to die?¡± Zach was infuriated. He lifted his hand, thinking of hitting her.


    Josie did not flinch. ¡°Go on. It¡¯s best if you make sure I actually die. If you can¡¯t do it, Dexter will send


    you behind bars the very next day!¡±


    Her fearless demeanor aggravated him further. ¡°F*****g w***e! I can¡¯t touch you just because you have


    a man behind you. But how about Laura? If I find her, you won¡¯t have a chance to save her again!¡±Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zach was evidently aggrieved after being kept away for months. He could no longer keep up the


    gentlemanly act he used to do. It was as though a maniacal thug had taken his ce.


    With his threat, Josie grasped his raised arm. ¡°I warn you, Zach, if you touch a single hair on Laura, I¡¯ll


    put you in jail myself!¡±


    ¡°With what you have? I can take charge of my family¡¯s properties now. Just so you know, you have no


    chance of doing anything to me!¡±


    ¡°So what? You can¡¯t even find Laura.¡± A smirk stretched across her face.


    With what he said, Josie noticed that he had not found Laura after he returned to Wavery. This gave


    her relief.


    ¡°Keep her well hidden if you care for her!¡± How he wished he could hit that smile off her face.

 Chapter 655

    Chapter 655


    Chapter 655 You¡¯re My Medicine


    However, Zach couldn¡¯t act rashly while udia was still outside the temple.


    In a swift and determined move, Zach forcefully pushed Josie¡¯s hand away and strode out, sending a


    cold shiver down her spine. Her heart pounded as she quickly sent a message to Laura, ¡®If you see


    this, please reply.¡¯


    The silence remained, and there was no response from Laura.


    Anxiety gripped Josie¡¯s heart as she wondered where Laura could be. If she hadn¡¯t encountered Zach,


    she should be safe. Although a thought kept resurfacing in Josie¡¯s mind, she hesitated to ept it fully,


    pushing it away. Unable to bear the uncertainty, she reluctantly reached out to Morgan, hoping for any


    clue about Laura¡¯s whereabouts.


    During her time with Matthew, she was introduced to a psychiatrist. However, when she discovered that


    the psychiatrist was Morgan Bastille, she blocked him. Due to the disappearance of Laura, she had no


    choice but to unblock his contact, hoping he might have some information about the missing woman.


    ¡®Sorry to bother you, but I can¡¯t contact Laura. Please reply to my message if you have any information


    about her.¡¯


    Meanwhile, in another part of Rivodia, the heavy rain enveloped the city in its relentless embrace.


    In a simple yet stylish apartment, a man sat in a bathtub, the steady rhythm of the raindrops against the


    window creating a soothing melody. The air was filled with the refreshing scent of pine wood, imparting


    at sense of tranquility to the surroundings.


    A woman wearing a bathrobe approached, holding a tray of fresh fruits. She casually remarked, ¡°You


    seem to like pine wood.¡±


    Indeed, over the past few months, he had burned pine wood incense every time they had been in


    contact, filling the air with its distinctive fragrance.


    As the mirror¡¯s surface caught the light, Laura¡¯s face emerged, unmistakable.


    The man raised his gaze, scrutinizing her with a mocking smile ying on his lips. ¡°Why did youe


    all the way to Rivodia?¡±


    ¡°My medication is running out. I came to get more,¡± Laura answered softly.


    None of the many men she had encountered, including Zach, could evoke the same response as


    Morgan- the only one who could make her feel fearful.


    That sense of fear was strangely alluring to her. It captivated and fascinated her, drawing her closer to


    him. despite the uneasiness it instilled in her.


    After leaving Wavery, Laura had been restless, finding sce only in Morgan¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Take the prescription I gave to you in the hospital; you can get your medication there,¡± Morgan replied,


    indifferent and unconcerned.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡± Laura bent down, her face wearing a pitiful expression. ¡°Dr. Bastille, I believe


    you¡¯re my medicine.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s gaze remained steady, and after a moment, he almostughed. He gently caressed her


    delicate


    face. ¡°You are funny.¡±


    Laura grew anxious, desperate to make him understand. ¡°It¡¯s true.¡±


    Desperate, she leaned over too much, identally revealing her cleavage-enough to stir any man¡¯s


    imagination.


    Despite Laura¡¯s plea, Morgan¡¯s expression remained unchanged. He firmly pushed her away, making


    his position clear. ¡°Our doctor-patient rtionship has ended. I am no longer Dr. Bastille.¡±


    ¡°But I heard that I was the only patient you have ever treated,¡± Laura quickly interjected, her voice


    desperate. ¡°Your n was always to take over the family business. So why did you make a detour to


    Wavery and be my psychiatrist for so many months?¡±


    Morgan ced his hand under his nose, concealing a faint smile. It seemed as if women always


    thought they were special in some way.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± he asked, his tone enigmatic.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Not because of me,¡± Laura admitted, her vulnerability exposed. ¡°But I hoped I could be someone


    important to you.¡±


    Her words lingered in the air. Morgan nced at her before suddenly reaching out and pulling her into


    the bathtub, creating a ssh of water around them.


    He firmly held her wet neck, leaned in close, and looked into her eyes. ¡°You are overestimating your


    importance, Laura.¡±


    Laura didn¡¯t resist; instead, she desired to be in his embrace, no matter how stern he might be. She


    longed To be close to him.


    As Morgan whispered in her ear, his voice appeared slightly agitated, ¡°You are being too reckless,


    Laura. You shouldn¡¯t have run away from Wavery. And you made her worry; that¡¯s unforgivable!¡±

 Chapter 656

    Chapter 656


    Chapter 656 Temptress


    Morgan¡¯s phoney untouched on the edge of the bathtub, the message from Josie still illuminated on


    the screen. He had not saved her contact; the location in Wavery disyed on the screen was enough


    for him to recognize the sender.


    Laura, on the other hand, was puzzled by the unexpected message. An unsettling feeling crept over


    her, like a whisper of foreboding that sent shivers down her spine. ¡°Who is this?¡± she asked, seeking an


    exnation.


    Morgan¡¯s lips curved into a scornful smile, his demeanor now devoid of thepassionate psychiatrist


    he had portrayed. ¡°Does anyone else in this world care enough about you to make an effort to look for


    you?¡± he retorted mockingly.


    His fa?ade as a gentle psychiatrist had dropped, and he had no desire to y the role of her savior. He


    revealed his true colors without a shred of mercy.


    The puzzle pieces fell into ce as Laura¡¯s mind connected the dots. Her voice quivered as she


    confronted Morgan, ¡°It¡¯s¡­ Josie! You know Josie!¡±


    Memories surged through her like a tidal wave-Josie¡¯s odd behavior whenever Morgan¡¯s name was


    mentioned, the advice he gave her to hinder Dexter¡¯s search for Josie, and the countless times he


    must have manipted their interactions to serve his hidden agenda.


    Morgan maintained aposed demeanor, not revealing any emotions, even with Laura¡¯s usations.


    ¡°So¡­ you stayed in Wavery for Josie and approached me for Josie too¡­¡± The realization hit her like a


    ton of bricks, and her body trembled uncontrobly. Laura had unknowingly be a pawn in his


    borate game, a mere tool for him to manipte and use to his advantage.


    And Laura, a pawn in the scheme, had foolishly fallen in love with the mastermind behind it all.


    ¡°Why¡­¡± her voice quivered with disbelief and hurt.


    Morgan¡¯s grip on her tightened, pulling her closer, but the warmth of his embrace offered no sce.


    ¡°I¡¯ve known Josie even before, Dexter,¡± he whispered softly, his breath brushing against her ear. ¡°Do


    you want to hear our story? It¡¯s quite the romantic tale.¡±


    Laura¡¯s quivering intensified as his words washed over her, leaving her exposed and vulnerable.


    In the bustling airport of Wavery, passengers bustled about, a mix of anticipation and reunions filling the


    air. Among the crowd, Josie stood with eager eyes. She had obtained Dexter¡¯s flight information from


    Larry in advance, unable to bear the thought of waiting a moment longer.


    Dexter¡¯s surprise was evident in his eyes when he spotted her approaching him. Josie rushed towards


    him and threw herself into his arms. He held her tightly, feeling an overwhelming sense of belonging.


    ¡°Why did youe?¡± Dexter inquired, his voice filled with curiosity and affection.


    A smile tugged at the corners of her lips, and she looked up at him, her eyes shining with adoration. ¡°I


    told you, one day without seeing you feels like an eternity.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved as he helped her put on her mask. ¡°Are you missing me or the shoes more?¡± he


    teased,


    eyes sparkling with mischief.


    his


    Josie raised her eyebrows in response, a yful glint in her eyes. ¡°Have you brought back the shoes?¡±


    she


    asked.


    His smile broadened, and he switched to holding her hand as they exited the airport together. ¡°Wavery


    has that brand too. Why insist on buying it in Rivonia?¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression softened, and she revealed the reason behind her desire for those shoes. ¡°But they


    won¡¯t be the same. When I was little, whenever my father went out to work, he would bring me a small


    gift when he returned. I would be so happy the entire day. When you bring me gifts from your business


    trips, it makes me very happy too.¡±


    Making a mental note of her words, Dexter vowed to remember the significance of those small gestures


    that brought her joy.


    As the car glided through the city streets, Josie couldn¡¯t contain her excitement, eager to try on the new


    shoes Dexter had brought for her. As she slipped the shoes on, she couldn¡¯t help but admire how


    perfectly they fit, the studs entuating the elegant curves of her fair feet, the sparkle emanating from


    the shoes mirroring the twinkle in her eyes.


    Josie extended her slender leg, teasingly sliding her heel across Dexter¡¯s thigh. ¡°I really like them, Mr.


    Russell. Do you like them too?¡± she said with a hint of coyness, fully aware of the effect her actions


    would have on him.


    Dexter¡¯s throat bobbed as he found it hard to deny the allure of Josie¡¯s sexy legs. His calm demeanor


    wavered for a moment, a flicker of desire in his gaze. However, he quicklyposed himself, rubbing


    his forehead with a sense of restraint.


    ¡°Josie, we¡¯re in the car,¡± he reminded her, his voice deep and husky.


    Josie¡¯s yful gazended on the soundproof ss, ¡°They can¡¯t hear us.¡±Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Closing the distance between them, she pressed the heel of her shoe against a certain part of his body


    with a teasing force, ¡°Don¡¯t you like it?¡± she purred, her voiceced with seduction.


    His reaction was evident, and of course, he liked it. How could he not? Dexter¡¯s temples throbbed with


    a mix of excitement and restraint..


    Unable to resist the woman¡¯s temptation before him, he pulled her into his embrace. ¡°Aren¡¯t you a


    temptress,¡± he whispered, his breath hot against her ear, his tone filled with desire.

 Chapter 657

    Chapter 657


    Chapter 657 Is Dexter a Lovesick Fool?


    They were consumed by passion after not seeing each other for a few days. It took three hours for


    Josie to finally recover from the intense experience.


    After her shower, she wrapped herself in a long, white silk bathrobe that hugged her curves and


    caressed her skin. The bathrobe entuated her hourss figure and created a rxing air around


    her.


    Her phone buzzed with several unread messages from Laura. One of them said, ¡®I¡¯m in Rivodia. Zach


    hasn¡¯t found me. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Laura¡¯s text was unusually polite; it didn¡¯t seem like her at all.


    Had her work at the studio expanded to Rivodia? Josie hadn¡¯t heard anything about it.


    Despite her suspicions, Josie was relieved to know that Laura was alright.


    Josie¡¯s frustration boiled over when she saw that Morgan hadn¡¯t replied to her text. She wouldn¡¯t have


    sent the message if she knew he wouldn¡¯t respond.


    She tried to delete the message, not wanting Morgan to know she had contacted him.


    Dexter was still half asleep when he hugged her from behind. ¡°What are you looking at?¡± he asked


    groggily.


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    Josie put her phone away. ¡°Nothing,¡± she answered, trying to brush off her frustration. ¡°I just got a


    message from Laura.¡±


    She lowered her gaze, then lifted Dexter¡¯s chiseled jaw to meet her eyes. ¡°God is really unfair,¡± she


    noted in her delicate voice. ¡°He gave you the best of everything. Even your face was carved to break


    many youngdies¡¯ hearts.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes and smirked. ¡°What¡¯s the use of having this face?¡± he asked. ¡°Do you want


    it?¡±


    ¡°Of course, if I had a face that could charm the nation, I would have been able to satisfy my vanity.¡±


    ¡°In our next life, you can have a perfectly carved face, and I¡¯ll take the ordinary look for a change.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll fall for you,¡± Josie chuckled mischievously.


    ¡°How dare you say that?¡± The man pulled her down to the bed, his voice booming theatrically.


    He tickled her sensitive areas, and Josie burst outughing. It took a long time for her to regain her


    composure again.


    ¡°How¡¯s everything going in Rivodia?¡± After calming down, she snuggled into Dexter¡¯s embrace, sharing


    a precious moment.


    ¡°It¡¯s going well,¡± Dexter responded. His expression suddenly changed, and an inscrutable mask


    adorned his face. ¡°If Morgan came to find you, would you meet up with him?¡±


    Josie was taken aback by the unexpected question. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to tell him that she had


    already met up with Morgan twice. ¡°Why did you ask that?¡± she stuttered.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes narrowed as he studied her strange expression. He sensed something was going on


    between them, but he knew it wasn¡¯t serious.


    ¡°Nothing. I was curious if you felt any sympathy for him.¡±


    His tone was smooth and collected, leaving Josie confused about what he was trying to get at. She


    wasn¡¯t sure how to respond, but then she remembered that the Bastille family was in Rivodia.


    ¡°If the public learns that Mr. Russell is targeting his wife¡¯s ex for reasons of jealousy, they must think


    you¡¯re a lovesick fool,¡± shemented timidly.


    ¡°Am I not?¡± Dexter chuckled, attempting to tease his wife.


    Josie narrowed her eyes and red at him, her lips curling into a surly sneer. ¡°Who would believe that


    you¡¯re a lovesick fool? All you do is seek revenge for personal reasons. Don¡¯t lovesick fools cater to


    their wife¡¯s desires?¡±


    Dexter was amused by herment and couldn¡¯t help but smirk. ¡°Wasn¡¯t good at catering to your


    desires just now?¡± he said as he snuggled his face in her neck.


    Dexter¡¯s smile was stered on his face, but it faltered when he was reminded of a white figure.


    The next day, Dexter met Paul on the way to the Russell Group. ¡°Jo and I would feel more at case if


    you stayed in the Mason Garden,¡± he said in a solemn voice.


    Paul had slowly warmed up to Dexter, and his attitude towards him changed as he let go of his


    prejudice against him. ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you.¡±


    ¡°Although I¡¯m not sure why this decision was made so abruptly, I trust you have your reasons. I won¡¯t


    pry into it. However, I left many things in my old ce, and I need to return home to retrieve them.¡±

 Chapter 658

    Chapter 658


    Chapter 658 Mysterious Red Box


    Josie exchanged nces with Dexter before facing her father. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it. Just tell me


    what


    you


    need,¡± she offered.


    Paul stared at her quizzically. ¡°Are you grounding me here? You¡¯re really not letting me go anywhere?¡±


    he asked, befuddled.


    Josie nodded and exined, ¡°The Mason Garden isrge enough for you to explore for days. Pops,


    you have to be content with what you have.¡±


    Seeing his daughter¡¯s cunning smile spread across her face, Paul jokingly asked Dexter, ¡°Is that


    something a daughter would say to her father?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved into a warm, gracious smile. He passed Josie a cup of milk and gestured for her to


    finish it. ¡°I¡¯ll get Moses to send you back. Please take care.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart started to race as she thought about the danger she had put herself into. I reckon Wyatt


    wouldn¡¯t hit me out of the blue, would he?


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After Dexter left, Paul gave Josie a list of things he needed. In addition to his clothes, he also listed


    many misceneous items.


    Paul specifically emphasized one of the items on the list. ¡°It¡¯s a red box ced in the first drawer of the


    wardrobe. You must bring it back.¡±


    Josie looked at the list carefully. ¡°What precious item did you put inside?¡±


    With a loud thud, Paul knocked his walking stick on the ground, expressing his irritation. ¡°It¡¯s my private


    belonging.¡±


    ¡°Oh? There must be money inside.¡±


    ¡°Tsk!¡±


    Josie stopped teasing him after that.


    She felt a strong sense of familiarity when she arrived at their old home. Everything looked exactly the


    same as she had remembered it. It also didn¡¯t seem like anyone had been inside the house. She went


    to the wardrobe and opened the door, revealing a red box inside.


    She wanted to open the box as soon as she saw it. She was curious about the contents and why Paul


    had been so secretive about it.


    ¡°Moses, it should be fine to take a tiny peek, right?¡± Josie hugged the box in her arms, hoping that


    Moses would approve.


    Moses pursed his lips into a thin line and answered, ¡°Why would it be an issue?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Pops will be mad.¡±


    ¡°Alright, then just leave it.¡±


    ¡°Pift,¡± Josie scoffed. That wasn¡¯t the answer she anticipated. ¡°I¡¯m itching to know what¡¯s inside.¡±


    Moses was rendered speechless by her hesitancy.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care anymore. I¡¯m opening it.¡± Josie couldn¡¯t hold back her curiosity, so she rubbed her hands.


    together and carefully opened the red box.


    There were Paul¡¯s medical reports and other documents inside. Josie skimmed through them but didn¡¯t


    notice anything out of the ordinary.


    She also found a stash of cash, but it only amounted to four hundred.


    Underneath the cash was an old album. The brown spotted pages crinkled under her touch. Inside the


    album were pictures dating back to when she was in middle school, which was around the time they


    got their first camera. There were not only pictures of her but also pictures of Justin and Jenny.


    Josie started reminiscing about her younger days as she looked at the pictures.


    Suddenly, she noticed that there was also a medical license inside the pile of documents.


    She froze in surprise. It had her father¡¯s photo when he was young, and his name, Paul Warren, was


    etched on it.


    ¡°Pops was a doctor in the past¡­¡± Josie had no recollection of her father being a doctor. From what she


    could remember, Paul had never had a stable job. He had been working multiple jobs to keep the


    family. afloat.


    He was a doctor!


    Josie¡¯s forehead creased in disbelief. She couldn¡¯t believe that Paul had never told her this before.


    Who knew he was this skilled?


    Below everything was a very thick document. Josie was eager to look through the contents, but her


    phone.


    rang.


    Moses passed her the phone, and she saw it was Angel calling.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Josie regained herposure immediately. She had told Angel that she could reach out to her if there


    were any issues she couldn¡¯t resolve.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Josie greeted, taking the call and holding the box.


    ¡°Jo, there¡¯s a problem,¡± Angel said, her voice betraying urgency. ¡°Jade and I saw that they were using


    unauthorized materials for the concrete at the construction site. I tried to exin that we can¡¯t use


    unauthorized materials, but they wouldn¡¯t listen and said that we were interfering with their job.¡±


    Josie felt a surge of anxiety welling up inside her. ¡°Are you sure?¡± she asked, her voice trembling.


    ¡°Yes, we are very sure,¡± Angel answered, her voice firm. ¡°They were using unauthorized materials.¡±

 Chapter 659

    Chapter 659


    Chapter 659 Who¡¯s Going to Take Responsibility if Something Goes. Wrong?


    Josie took a deep breath and announced, ¡°I¡¯ll be there as soon as possible. Please try to stop them.¡±


    As soon as she ended the call, she told Moses, ¡°Please take me to the construction site.¡±


    Josie arrived at a construction site that was filled with sizzling tension as the two sides argued. The


    construction workers carried construction tools, making them look even more intimidating.


    ¡°Who are you to tell us what to do? Get away!¡± The man in charge snapped at them.


    Jade stood in front of him. ¡°Give me the official documents authorizing the use of these materials, or I


    won¡¯t back down.¡±


    ¡°You little troublemaker!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you


    feel guilty? How could you use unauthorized materials? Who¡¯s going to take responsibility if something


    goes wrong?¡±


    The construction workers must have been surprised at how knowledgeable they were about the legality


    of the materials.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter either way,¡± Will said, hurrying to them and standing next to Jade. ¡°I¡¯ve told you that


    the materials are fine. We have toplete our work before the new year. Please don¡¯t affect our


    progress, young fe.¡±


    Jade stood rooted to his spot and directed his irritation at Will, ¡°You¡¯re part of this too?¡±


    ¡°What are you getting at?¡± Will stomped his feet in frustration. ¡°It¡¯s the Carter Group¡¯s project. We


    wouldn¡¯t have started the construction if something was wrong with the materials. The materials would


    take at least three to five days to be tested and authorized. Who will be responsible for the dy of our


    work then?¡±


    He had a point; Jade was rendered speechless, with his lips pressed together in a tight line.


    Will continued, ¡°Are you going to take responsibility?¡±


    Dumbfounded, Jade could not offer a rebut as he let the weight of Will¡¯s words sink in.


    A delicate voice rang out from afar. ¡°I¡¯ll take the responsibility,¡± it said,


    Josie strode towards them and stood by Jade¡¯s side. ¡°If someone has to take responsibility for the


    dy in progress, I will,¡± she announced, her voice booming so the rest of them could hear.


    Will felt his head throbbing in frustration. ¡°Ms. Warren, why are you behaving like them?¡± he asked.


    He even referred to her by herst name.


    ¡°Will, I¡¯m not making this up,¡± Josie said, summoning a tight-lipped smile. ¡°Since they pointed out the


    problem, shouldn¡¯t you be trying to fix it as soon as possible? Is there really a problem with the


    materials


    used?¡±


    When she first took on the project, she had her doubts about the materials used. Therefore, she


    inspected their progress personally to avoid any problems.


    |||


    1/2


    all & browS STRIEIT


    caused any problems. It¡¯s very sturdy, even though it hasn¡¯t been authorized.¡±


    There was indeed a problem with the materials..


    Josie scanned the materials and interrogated, ¡°Is it cheap?¡±


    Will¡¯s frown deepened as he answered, ¡°It¡¯s high-quality material.¡±


    projects before. It¡¯s never


    Josie¡¯s lips quirked disbelievingly. ¡°We¡¯ll also be in hot water if something goes wrong with the project.


    1 can¡¯t let you use these materials.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Amidst the heat of their argument, Josie remained calm andposed. She turned to Angel and Jade


    and said, ¡°You guys did a great job today. The Carter Group should reward you for this!¡±


    Angel and Jade exchanged worried nces. ¡°Jo, will we get in trouble if we stop them from working?¡±


    Will was already discussing the matter with the people involved.


    ¡°Don¡¯t back down. You¡¯re doing the right thing, and you have nothing to fear.¡±


    It made sense to stand their ground, but it was still daunting to be confronting brawny men with their


    construction tools.


    Josie stood her ground defiantly, her small frame only making her determination more impressive.


    ¡°The person in charge from the Carter Group will be here soon. Ms. Warren, you¡¯ll have to answer to


    them,¡± Will said indifferently, exasperated by her stubbornness.


    Josie was unfazed by his cold attitude. However, she immediately thought of Arnold when he


    mentioned the person in charge of the Carter Group.

 Chapter 660

    Chapter 660


    Chapter 660 Heather Could Be Liana?


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She recalled their conversation before, which made her blood boil with anger.


    If Arnold were toe over, he wouldn¡¯t be on her side.


    Josie felt her head throbbing as she anticipated her encounter with Arnold. She didn¡¯t know how to face


    him.


    After fifteen minutes, the person in charge from the Carter Group arrived. It wasn¡¯t Arnold but the


    manager of the project. Josie realized that Arnold was never officially involved in overseeing the


    project.


    Why did he even bothering thest time?


    The manager walked into the crowd and searched around. ¡°Where is Ms. Warren?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s heads turned to look at Josie.


    ¡°Ah! We¡¯re¡¦terribly sorry for the misunderstanding. Our workers were careless and caused you


    distress.¡± The manager approached Josie and took her hands in his.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t take this personally. We¡¯ll work on improving our workers¡¯ conduct.¡±


    -Everyone at the scene was stunned.


    Josie¡¯s eyes narrowed at the manager¡¯s theatrics. It left her surprised as well. ¡°It seems like you were


    aware that something was wrong with the materials used.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true! I was furious to learn that someone had tried to rece the materials of our concrete


    with unauthorized materials. I¡¯m so d you were quick to spot it! Thank you!¡±


    The manager didn¡¯t relinquish Josie¡¯s hand as he spoke contritely.


    Josie raised her eyebrow dubiously at his actions. ¡°It was my employee who noticed it.¡±


    His


    eyes widened in understanding, and he scurried to Angel and Jade.


    ¡°What¡¯s yourst name?¡±


    ¡°Haynes!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Haynes, I¡¯m not sure if this matter is directly rted to thepany or if it was the construction.


    team¡¯s idea, but we will not allow you to use these materials. You cannot use them now and will not be


    abl to use them in the future either.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I agree!¡± The manager immediately turned to the construction workers and barked at them. ¡°Who


    is behind this? How could you order the wrong materials? Do you think the Carter Group is broke, so


    you couldn¡¯t get the authorized materials? Don¡¯t screw this project up!¡±


    Will¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment. He tried to say something, but his words died on his lips. He


    finally threw up his hands in frustration.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I will have someone change the materials right away. You can send someone to oversee


    the process as well, the manager said with a lilt.


    It was evident that Mr. Haynes was someone who was meticulous in his work.


    |||


    1/


    Josie couldn¡¯t find any fault with the way he handled the problem. ¡°Alright, please inform Mr. Carter that


    he shouldn¡¯t take any shortcuts if he doesn¡¯t want to end up in the same mess as the Russell Group.¡±


    The things she said were a direct affront to Arnold, causing the muscles in Mr. Hayne¡¯s face to tighten.


    He forced a smile before continuing. ¡°Mr. Carter instructed me to address this issue as soon as he


    became aware of it. Please have faith in his character.¡±


    His character? The way he flies off the handle at the drop of a hat? Josie¡¯s face turned grim and


    serious, and she didn¡¯t say another word in response.


    It seemed like he didn¡¯t want to be around her, either.


    Later that day, the previous materials were taken away, and new sets of authorized materials were


    brought


    1.


    Josie kept an eye on them the whole day.


    They did as they were told and didn¡¯t make any slip-ups. However, this incident strained their


    rtionship. with the construction team, making it more challenging to coborate with them in the


    future.


    At the Russell Group.


    After seeing Heather in Rivodia, Dexter¡¯s mind was awash with conflicting emotions. He felt a sense of


    dread as if he was being pulled back into the past.


    After he saw Heather in Rivodia, his mind was reeling, and he felt an uneasy weight on his chest. He


    felt like he still had something left to do.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I ran a background check on Heather. She¡¯s an orphan, so we can¡¯t be certain that her


    birthday was that day. It could just be a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°How can they be so alike? They both have a liking for white dresses and have the same birthday.


    Even their personalities are simr.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t want to admit it, but he had noticed many simrities


    between them.


    ¡°So, you believe she could be Liana Olsen?¡±


    Larry had heard that Dexter was constantly gued with thoughts of Leanne; they were like a constant.


    ache in the back of his mind, never quite going away.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. We¡¯ll need to get the Olsen family to find out the truth.¡±

 Chapter 661

    Chapter 661


    Chapter 661 A Stranger on the Phone


    Dexter was struck by a memory. When he first saw Heather, he thought she looked like Josie.


    Could it be that she didn¡¯t look like Josie? Could she be the real Liana?


    Dexter¡¯s heart thumped against his chest as he tried to process the idea that Heather could be Liana.


    He knew that seeing her again would cause a major emotional upheaval within him.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    All the things he had done to her in the past would only add to the guilt he already felt toward her.


    ¡°I apologize for my bluntness, but I don¡¯t think it would be easy for the Olsen family to rify her


    identity. as their family rtions are extremelyplicated.¡±


    Dexter massaged his temples, his headache pounding like a jackhammer. ¡°We need to get udia and


    Heather together,¡± he said, his voice strained. ¡°If they meet, it will make our progress much smoother.¡±


    After a short pause, he emphasized, ¡°It has to be udia.¡±


    She was the only clear-headed member of the Olsen family, unclouded by personal ambition or greed.


    She was the person most suitable to identify Heather¡¯s true identity.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Larry turned around and walked away. After a few paces, he stopped and turned back


    ¡°We¡¯ve secured the partnership with Shawn Bastille. I heard that Morgan is absolutely livid.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. ¡°He must be seething after losing his control.¡±


    The Olsen family was inplete disarray this year. Summer had been pushed to the brink by Zach


    Olsen¡¯s return. She was so overwhelmed that she couldn¡¯t focus on her ns to target the Russell


    Group. To make matters worse, she was also caught up in the Carter Group¡¯stest debacle. It had


    been a challenging year for her.


    Dexter had a meeting that night at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel to discuss the Russell Group¡¯s ns to


    build warehouses overseas the following year.


    He had left his phone in the car, so he asked Moses to get it for him. The hotel was crowded, and


    Moses was bumped into by a woman in the elevator. The sudden collision between their bodies


    inadvertently caused both of them to drop their phones. rmed, they quickly picked up the phone


    closest to them without further inspection.


    Unfortunately, they both had the same phone model, and they both ended up with the wrong phone.


    After Josie showered, she called Dexter, but the breathy voice on the other end of the line was delicate


    and


    coy.


    ¡°Who is this?¡±


    Josie remained silent momentarily, trying to make sense of what was happening. She then noticed the


    noise in the background and took a wild guess at their location. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m looking for Dexter Russell.


    Could you please pass the phone to him?¡± she said calmly.


    ¡°You¡¯re looking for Dexter here? Are you his mistress or his wife?¡±


    Josie could tell that the woman was intoxicated. She took a deep breath to regain herposure


    before replying, ¡°I¡¯m Mrs. Russell.¡±


    |||


    1/


    The woman at the other end of the call fell silent. Her calm and firm tone exuded a charisma that could


    only belong to the matriarch of the family. ¡°What is yourst name?¡± she asked timidly.


    ¡°Warren.¡±


    The woman finally believed her. ¡°I see. Why didn¡¯t you join Mr. Russell here? Have you had dinner? It¡¯s


    reallyte now.¡±


    Everyone knew that Dexter was very protective of his wife, but she was from an ordinary family


    background and had no one with a strong standing in the social hierarchy to back her up. They didn¡¯t


    see the need to be intimidated by her because they thought she would be reced in a few years.


    Everyone who worked here knew about it.


    That was why she wasn¡¯t bothered by her and treated her disrespectfully.


    Josie was unfazed by the other woman¡¯s dismissive attitude. She stood her ground and spoke to her in


    a firm but polite tone. ¡°I need to speak to Dexter,¡± she said. ¡°Please give him the phone. It will only take


    at


    moment.¡±


    Josie¡¯s politeness only seemed to fuel the other woman¡¯s arrogance. ¡°Don¡¯t you know Mr. Russell is


    busy?¡± she sneered. ¡°He has urgent matters to attend to. If I were you, I wouldn¡¯t bother him at this


    time, Men will eventually get tired of the same woman, so if you want to stay by his side for a long time,


    you¡¯ll have to be morepliant. After all, he is a powerful man who expects to be obeyed.¡±


    She advised Josie with a cunning grin ying at the corners of her lips.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief as she listened to the other woman¡¯s words. She shifted her position


    on the bed and crossed her arms. ¡°I¡¯ve learned something new,¡± she responded, her voice dripping with


    sarcasm. ¡°So, tell me, what is your rtionship with him?¡±

 Chapter 662

    Chapter 662


    Chapter 662 The New Girl


    The unexpected question caught everyone off guard.


    Feeling humiliated and anxious, she hesitated for a moment before visibly flustering. ¡°I¡¯m his


    companion. he booked for the night!¡±


    Companion? The word invoked various possibilities. Josie nodded slightly, ¡°Oh, he¡¯s booked a


    companion? I must have missed that part¡­¡±


    The woman on the other end responded smugly, ¡°Hasn¡¯t anyone ever called you dumb, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ you sound like the smarty pants here.¡± Josie retorted before promptly ending the call.


    Two minutester, Larry received a message on his phone, ¡®Can you get someone to check on Mr.


    Russell¡¯s phone?¡±


    Larry was left perplexed, having endured a lengthy negotiation meeting only to be bombarded with an


    ambiguous message.


    He showed his phone to Dexter, saying, ¡°It¡¯s a message from Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Furrowing his brow, Dexter powered on the phone Moses recently delivered and was taken aback to


    find a


    woman¡¯s screensaver.


    At that moment, everything clicked, and Dexter came to a supposition.


    He had waited eagerly for Josie¡¯s call all night, but it never came. It turned out that the phone he held


    wasn¡¯t even his own.


    Ten minutester, the second floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, typically bustling with servers and


    guests, was now shrouded in an eerie silence.


    Upon hearing the situation, the manager hurriedly arrived and almost peed in his pants, ¡°What¡¯s


    happening?¡±


    ¡°One of the new girls here provoked Mrs. Russell¡­.


    ¡°What? How ignorant! How many lives does she think she has to dare provoke Mrs. Russell¡­ She¡¯s


    practically asking for trouble!¡± The manager eximed angrily..


    Dexter, the founder of Mandarin Oriental Hotel, had gradually distanced himself from its day-to-day


    management in recent years. However, it remained the most profitablepany in the entire Wavery


    underworld. Its influence was respected and feared by both the realms of organized crime and politics.


    If Dexter ever decided to cancel someone, it would spell their ultimate downfall.


    Meanwhile, Dexter lounged on the sofa, idly tinkering with his phone. Equipped with an automatic -


    recording function, he pressed a button to rey the previous conversation.


    After listening to it once, Dexter rewound and listened to it again.


    ¡°What? Don¡¯t you know? Even at this hour, Mr. Russell is still hard at work, handling important matters.


    If I were you, I wouldn¡¯t disturb him right now. You know how men can be-they easily grow weary of


    things and women. If you want to maintain your status as Mrs. Russell for longer, you must be


    submissive and heed the advice. Do you understand?¡±


    |||


    1/Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    The entire conversation yed out for a grueling ten minutes, leaving everyone in the room holding


    their breath, paralyzed with fear.


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t anyone ever called you dumb, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Dexter listened to this segment three times in a row.


    Even Larry couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of nervousness.


    One must know that Dexter wasn¡¯t one to look for trouble actively; most of the time, he couldn¡¯t be


    bothered. However, if he intentionally made someone¡¯s life difficult, that person wouldn¡¯t be in for a


    good


    time.


    ¡°Who was it that answered my wife¡¯s call just now?¡±


    Dexter pocketed his phone, his countenance turning increasingly ominous.


    A heavy silence descended upon the room as no one dared to utter a single word.


    Dexter maintained hisposure and asked again because no one owned up to the mistake,


    Finally, a woman cautiously stepped out from the crowd. Her drunkenness had subsided, yet she still


    stuttered as she answered, ¡°It¡­It was¡­ me¡­¡±


    Larry carefully sized her up. The girl was undeniably young, attractive, and exuded confidence


    bordering. on arrogance, but all that dimmed in the face of Dexter¡¯smanding presence.


    Dexter gave her a quick once-over and inquired, ¡°So, what¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°¡­Mr. Russell, her name is Ruby Snitch, our newly hired waitress. The manager stammered.


    Dexter cast another nce at her. ¡°Ah, Ruby Snitch, the ¡®bitch¡¯ with a snappy stitch.¡±


    The manager was momentarily stunned, unsure if he should join in or maintain a professional


    demeanor


    ¡°How old are you?¡±


    ¡°She had just turned twenty.¡±


    ¡°Is she your girlfriend?¡± Dexter suddenly posed a startling question to the manager.


    ¡°Huh? No, no, not at all, Mr. Russell! I¡¯m not¡­ I mean, you¡¯ve misunderstood¡­ The manager felt a


    wave of anxiety, sweating profusely.


    ¡°Then why are you sticking your nose in this waitress¡¯ business, answering for her mistakes?¡±

 Chapter 663

    Chapter 663


    Chapter 663 Offending Mrs Russell


    Once the culprit stepped up and admitted her guilt, the manager understood it would result in the girl¡¯s


    downfall.


    For subordinates, having their supervisor¡¯s support was something to be grateful for. Still, if the


    supervisor refused, the subordinate¡¯s problem wasn¡¯t their concern or responsibility.


    Ruby quivered in fear. Her previous arrogance towards Josie had now vanished.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She dared not lift her head and meet his eyes in Dexter¡¯s overpowering presence.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my actions, Mr. Russell. I didn¡¯t know my ce and offended Mrs. Russell. You can


    punish me however you think is appropriate!¡± Ruby apologized in a flutter, bowing deeply.


    Dexter gave her a cold stare and asked, ¡°Which university do you attend?¡±


    Ruby nced at his expression and stuttered, ¡°¡­D¡­ D University.¡±


    Their eyes briefly met that moment, sending a shiver down Ruby¡¯s spine.


    With just a few nces, this man towering over her could see right through a person¡¯s social


    background. And she knew nothing about him¡­


    The absolute dominance of power was terrifying and humbling, making Ruby feel inferior and


    insignificant.


    Dexter shifted his gaze away and instructed Larry, ¡°Check if there¡¯s such a person at D University.¡±


    Larry was about to take out his phone when Ruby suddenly blurted out, ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ I, I didn¡¯t attend


    D University. I go to A University¡­¡±


    Her voice trembled this time, reflecting her fear for the future.


    The moment those words left her lips, the manager shot a disapproving look at Ruby, astonished that


    she would lie in front of Dexter. Did she have a death wish?


    Dexter¡¯s unwavering stare bore into her, his face a mask of authority. He effortlessly saw through her


    attempts at maniption.


    ¡°Ms. Snitch, trying to fool me won¡¯t end well,¡± he cautioned with a subtle, barely noticeable. parting of


    his lips. ¡°it¡¯s best to drop the act when you¡¯re dealing with me.¡±


    Word on the street was that Dexter¡¯s influence in the nightlife scene was akin to a ruler in the


    |||


    <


    1/3


    underworld, and once he spoke his mind, there was no turning back.


    And it appeared to be true.


    Sensing that things were about to get out of hand, the manager quickly said, ¡°Mr. Russell, please give


    her a chance. She¡¯s young and new to all this. She chose to work here at our hotel. because her family


    has a sick rtive, and she needed the money¡­¡±


    ¦§


    The manager attempted to excuse Ruby¡¯s misconduct by highlighting her vulnerability.


    Dexter nced at him as if half-understanding. ¡°Needs money, huh? I suppose so. I mean, what does a


    college student know, right?¡±


    The manager forced a smile. ¡°Exactly¡­¡±


    ¡°But,¡± he suddenly changed his tone, ¡°since you¡¯re working here, it doesn¡¯t matter if you¡¯re a college


    student or if you need money.¡±


    Ruby¡¯s heart sank.


    Dexter raised his hand slightly, motioning to Larry. ¡°Let the media know.¡±


    Then, the Daily Wavery would feature the story of a college student¡¯s downfall, enmeshed in a


    corrupted lifestyle, delving deep into and investigating the syndicate.


    Dexter wouldn¡¯t even have to intervene personally. With a simplemand, he could ruin a young


    girl¡¯s life.


    Ruby crumbled to the ground, and Dexter didn¡¯t spare her another nce as he stood. up and left,


    nced at the embarrassed-looking manager, and remarked, ¡°Our hotel needs some serious cleanup,


    or it will eventually tarnish my reputation.¡±


    The manager took in a deep, unsettling breath.


    Back at Mason Garden, it was already ten-thirty at night.


    Yet, for a corporate high-ranking man like Dexter, returning home at ten-thirty at night. wasn¡¯t


    consideredte; if anything, it was early.


    Josie had fallen asleep, but she woke to the man¡¯s breath and gentle embrace from behind. ¡°Did I wake


    you?¡±


    She replied in a half-asleep, hoarse voice, ¡°No, I¡¯m a light sleeper.¡±


    ¡°Is everything resolved?¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡± Dexter covered her with the nket.


    ¡°All sorted now.¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡± Dexter covered her with the nket. ¡°All taken care of now.¡±

 Chapter 664

    Chapter 664


    Chapter 664 Alluring Temptress


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    The word ¡®all¡¯ felt somewhat elusive.


    Josie snuggled in his arms, feeling a sense of relief andfort. ¡°I¡¯m happy everything¡¯s


    sorted out.¡±


    She intentionally left out the phone call issue because she knew once the text message was sent


    sessfully, Dexter would handle it.


    ¡°You won¡¯t have to deal with situations like today again,¡± Dexter said gently, brushing the hair off her


    face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for putting you through that.¡±


    Josie¡¯s sleepiness gradually faded, and she yfully remarked, ¡°So, did you hire a call girl today?¡±


    The female workers at Mandarin Oriental Hotel were skilled and well-trained to captivate men. If Josie


    were to bepared with them, she wouldn¡¯t stand a chance. But fortunately, she didn¡¯t need to.


    Dexter chuckled softly, no longer as distant as he was a moment ago. ¡°Moses grabbed the wrong


    phone; it was just a misunderstanding. I didn¡¯t hire any call girl.¡±


    While looking at his chiseled face under the dimmed light, Josie¡¯s finger traced his cheek, brimming


    with affection. ¡°And you won¡¯t in the future, right?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    She smiled.


    Two dayster, Josie stumbled upon the aftermath of Dexter¡¯s wrath on the front page of Daily Wavery


    ¨C a story of a college girl sumbing to temptation and money.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you so engrossed in there?¡± A voice suddenly interrupted.


    Josie nced up in surprise as Laura sauntered into the office, rocking high heels and a dark green


    fitted skirt that showcased her long legs, exuding the allure of a temptress even in the bone-chilling


    December.


    Josie¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°I thought you were going to hand this studio over to mepletely.¡±


    Laura¡¯s red lips curved into a yful smile as she nudged her. ¡°You wish! I¡¯ve invested a good chunk of


    money in it.¡±


    Josie looped her arm through Laura¡¯s. ¡°Where have you beentely? Did you leave Wavery or


    something?¡±


    |||


    O


    1/3


    With Laura being a tad taller, she lowered her head and picked up on the reliant expression on Josie¡¯s


    face. A hint of hesitation flickered in her eyes. ¡°I went on a vacation for a few days. Staying cooped up


    in Wavery all the time is just in boring!¡±


    ¡°And you swung by the studio right aftering back?¡±


    Laura beamed at her. ¡°Devotiones first.¡±


    They both settled down, each with a cup of coffee before them.


    ¡°I heard you were pretty gutsy and walked into the site and stopped the Carter Group¡¯s construction.


    Did that actually happen?¡± Despite not being in Wavery, Laure seemed to be well-informed.


    Josie had no defenses against her and answered honestly, ¡°They were using shoddy materials, and I


    had to stop them.¡±


    ¡°Come on, using different materials isn¡¯t much of a big deal. You were so insistent on stopping them


    because¡­¡±


    Laura¡¯s tone trailed off.


    Josie furrowed her brow, ¡°What do you mean ¡®isn¡¯t that big of a deal? When something goes. wrong, it


    ruins lives. You know very well what happened with the Russell Group. How can you say it¡¯s not a big


    deal?¡±


    How could Laura lightly brush it off as if it weren¡¯t a big deal?


    Josie was getting upset, and Laura signaled for her to calm down. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. What I


    meant was Carter Group is apetitor to the Russell Group. Wouldn¡¯t it benefit Dexter if Carter


    Group failed and got caught up in this matter?¡±


    Laura had a point, and Josie understood where she wasing from.


    Standing up, Josie walked to the floor-to-ceiling window. ¡°I don¡¯t want to prioritize ourpetition over


    this. Besides, our studio is not a subsidiary of the Russell Group.¡±


    In her heart, this studio had no ties or affiliation with anyone or any establishment.


    Laura walked up and patted her shoulder. ¡°Of course, I get what you mean. But you went all out to stop


    it because of Arnold¡­¡±


    They locked eyes, and she revised her wording, ¡°¡­because of yourpassion.¡±


    Laura¡¯s words struck a chord within Josie.


    Despite Arnold¡¯s offensive words, deep down, she didn¡¯t want him to go down the wrong

 Chapter 665

    Chapter 665


    Chapter 665 The Indulgence of the Companion


    ¡°You¡¯ve seen how much he¡¯s helped me firsthand. At the very least, I don¡¯t want his project to fail under


    my watch,¡± Josie exined.


    Laura shed a gentle smile. ¡°Josie, you¡¯re such a sincere person, but sincerity doesn¡¯t seem to carry


    much weight in this industry.¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Josie smiled back. ¡°I don¡¯t mind. As long as I¡¯m true to my conscience, that¡¯s enough.¡±


    ¡°Are you not worried that Dexter will be upset if he finds out? This could be the perfect. opportunity to


    bring down the Carter family once and for all,¡± Laura pointed out.


    ¡°He won¡¯t,¡± Josie quickly responded, addressing the doubt. ¡°and I don¡¯t think he¡¯d want to achieve


    victory at the cost of bloodshed.¡±


    Laura neither agreed nor disagreed, and her gaze suddenly shifted to the high heels on Josie¡¯s feet. ¡°I


    remember these shoes were sold out in Wavery. Where did you get them?¡±


    Josie followed her gaze, ¡°In Rivodia. He brought them back for me when he was on a business trip.¡±


    Her words carried a deep affection from someone who held a special ce in her heart.


    Laura¡¯s smile slightly faded at the mention of Rivodia, ¡°It¡¯s a nice ce. I¡¯ve been there. during my


    travels.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Josie asked, ¡°How was it?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, it rained for a few days, which made it a bit disheartening,¡± Laura replied.


    Josie seemed to grasp Laura¡¯s sentiment, but not entirely.


    When thinking about the ce, Laura still felt a lingering pain in her heart.


    As they had grown close and became confidantes, Josie probed, ¡°Will you still be meeting Zach?¡±


    Hearing Zach¡¯s name, Laura showed immediate disdain, ¡°Yes, we haven¡¯t divorced yet, and I came


    back just to see him.¡±


    Josie offered emotional support, holding her hand and feeling her sorrow.


    Laura shrugged as if to dismiss her feelings, ¡°He has already made a blunder. He can¡¯t afford. another


    public scandal unless he doesn¡¯t want to inherit the Olsen¡¯s fortune.¡±


    |||


    1/3


    <


    Josie felt puzzled, sensing that Laura¡¯s mind seemed scattered, like pieces of a puzzle she couldn¡¯t


    quite piece together.


    Before she could inquire further, Laura suddenly said, ¡°Guess who I saw in Rivodia?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Morgan Bastille.¡±


    The name made Josie visibly stiffen.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t you know him? He¡¯s the psychologist you introduced me to,¡± Laura said, catching


    Josie¡¯s somewhat shocking reaction.


    ¡°Oh, really? What about him?¡± Josie tried to act nonchnt as she turned around, picked up her coffee,


    and took small sips.


    ¡°I just found out he¡¯s the eldest son of the Bastille family in Rivodia and is set to inherit the family


    fortune.¡±


    ¡°Where did you hear that?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know? I thought you two were friends?¡± Laura answered without directly. addressing the


    question, trying to uncover their history from Josie¡¯s uneasy response.


    Regarding Morgan, he was someone Josie never wanted to confront or acknowledge his existence, let


    alone have anything to do with him.


    ¡°We were college ssmates, but I don¡¯t know him well.¡±


    Laura could easily discern the stark contrast in their reactions.


    Josie¡¯s attempt to distance herself from Morgan was apparent, especiallypared to his suggestive


    gaze and tone while mentioning her.


    ¡°He¡¯s not my psychologist anymore. He¡¯s now the heir of the Bastille family. And, honestly, it feels


    weird,¡± Laura said.


    ¡°Since he¡¯s back in Rivodia, it¡¯s probably best not to see him again,¡± Josie advised.


    Laura remained emotionless behind her, lost in her thoughts as she mumbled, ¡°I think so too.¡±


    The somber rain in Rivodia seemed to envelop her in a sentimental haze, and the man¡¯s indifferent


    voice echoed in her ears, ¡°Laura, you said I¡¯m your medicine. Don¡¯t you think you should offer


    something in return to deserve me?¡±


    She shuddered in the rain. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Nothing much,¡± he beamed,¡°Just everything about Wavery.¡±)

 Chapter 666

    Chapter 666


    Chapter 666 Spare Me, I¡¯m Exhausted


    After half a month of hard work, Carter Grouppleted the government project three days. ahead of


    schedule.


    On thepletion day, numerous government officials and Carter Group executives gathered for the


    ribbon-cutting ceremony while Josie stood inconspicuously in a distant.


    As she watched those people show off and act all fancy, Josie finally felt a sense of relief as the project


    had concluded smoothly, without any mishaps.


    With only ten days until the New Year, the studio decided to go on an early holiday.


    Josie mostly stayed at Mason Garden, keeping her fatherpany, and asionally dropped by the


    Russell Group to support Dexter while he worked.


    Josie spent most of her time in Mason Garden, keeping her fatherpany, and asionally visited


    the Russell Group to support Dexter while he worked.


    Today, she feigned exhaustion and used it as an excuse to avoid preparing for the Russell Group¡¯s


    annual meeting.


    Josie yfully said to Dexter, ¡°I¡¯m exhausted. Spare me, please.¡±


    And Dexter smiled and indulgently rubbed her nose before letting her off the hook.


    On the day of the annual meeting, she attended it alongside Dexter.


    Even though they dressed modestly, their status naturally drew attention.


    Many people came to offer toasts, and Josie confidently called out each person¡¯s name as they


    approached. She exuded theposure expected of Mrs. Russell, even when Dexter wasn¡¯t by her


    side.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    The emcee on stage was the most notable project owner from one of Russell Group¡¯s investments this


    year.


    Sporting an enchanting smile, she spoke with eloquence and


    grace.


    Sitting next to Josie in the front row, she suddenly added, ¡°Guess what? Our project¡¯s investor isn¡¯t only


    Mr. Russell but Mrs. Russell too. And on theunch day, he bought the first batch of products,


    especially for her.¡±


    Josie smiled knowingly, catching the full implication it meant that even Mr. Russell was treated as a


    guest during their productunch.


    1/3


    The emcee¡¯s choice of words was clever, subtly turning the tables on Russell Group at their very own


    event.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Josie took the microphone. She added, ¡°when your husband first came to our house to discuss


    the investment with Dex and me, I was already blown away by the project¡¯s innovation. He spent half


    an hour exining the concept, and Dex took only a minute to sign and agree to invest.¡±


    As Josie delivered her words, her polished manner and eloquence left a strong impression on everyone


    present, and they exchanged subtle nces, recognizing her wit and skillful presentation.


    With a skillful turn of phrase, Josie subtly implied that the emcee and her husband were eager to


    promote the project. At the same time, Dexter¡¯s quick decision to be on board. showcased their


    enthusiasm. It was a shrewd move that clearly demonstrated who had the advantage.


    The emcee reluctantly followed the crowd and joined in the apuse, but her expression clearly


    revealed her displeasure.


    Rumor had it that Josiecked influential connections and came from an ordinary. background, leading


    some to believe she was easily influenced. Little did they know that Josie was like a rose with thorns a


    gentle exterior hiding a fierce spirit. Prick her a little, and she¡¯d prove her strength.


    Shortly after, Dexter returned to stand beside Josie.


    Having heard her speech and witnessed the room¡¯s amazed reaction earlier, he couldn¡¯t help. but feel


    an immense sense of pride as he observed the woman he had mentored now basking in the spotlight.


    Dexter felt reassured, knowing that Josie would stand up for him. They held hands, their understanding


    of each other¡¯s emotions flowing effortlessly without the need for extensive words.


    The annual meeting hit its midpoint, and the music invited everyone to the dance floor. Amidst the


    festive atmosphere, someone teasingly suggested that Mr. and Mrs. Russell share a dance. Blushing


    slightly, Josie softly replied, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to dance¡­¡±


    With numerous eyes on them, Dexter calmly held her hand and offered, ¡°My wife isn¡¯t


    feelingfortable dancing today. But if everyone¡¯s willing, how about we present a musical piece


    instead?¡±


    Josie nced up, intrigued.


    ¡°Woohoo!¡± The crowd burst into apuse.


    2/3


    Guiding her to the stage¡¯s piano, Dexter heard Josie whisper, ¡°Can you y the piano?¡±


    She waspletely unaware of his piano-ying ability.


    Dexter gently squeezed her hand, ¡°Moonlight Sonata, shall we?¡±

 Chapter 667

    Chapter 667


    Beethoven¡¯s famous piece was no stranger to Josie. She nodded confidently.


    Seated side by side at the piano, their eyes met, and the captivating melody flowed from their fingers.


    enchanting the entire audience. Despite never having rehearsed together, their four-handed duet


    disyed an extraordinary level of harmony, as though they were one musician.


    The sight of a handsome man and a beautiful woman sharing their musical talent was a sight to behold,


    prompting many to capture the moment on video.


    Following the performance, even Josie was pleasantly surprised by how wlessly it unfolded. She


    shared a knowing nce with Dexter, who looked at her with fondness and understanding.


    ¡°Tired?¡± he asked.


    ¡°A bit.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Hand in hand, they left the venue.


    Shortly afterward, a video of their performance at the annual meeting went viral on social media,


    bing the talk of the town.


    Though the video was a bit blurry, it disyed two people wlessly ying the piano, looking


    remarkably in sync.


    Gone were the days of mocking Josie¡¯s qualifications and doubting her as Dexter¡¯s wife. Now, she was


    recognized by everyone for her outstanding qualities, and she held the role with utmost confidence.


    The streets were filled with festive cheer as the New Year was on the horizon. Sitting in the car, Josie


    felt restless. She held on to Dexter, urging him to take a walk.


    Unable to resist her, he helped her change intofortable shoes and put on a coat before stepping


    out of


    the car.


    ¡°You know, having peaceful days like this felt like an unattainable fantasy, something I didn¡¯t even dare


    to dream of in the past,¡± Josie said, strolling alongside him, her arm wrapped around his.


    ¡°So, now that you¡¯ve got everything you wanted, are you happy?¡± Dexter adjusted his pace to walk


    beside


    her.


    ¡°Definitely! My father has finallye around, my studio is doing well, and having you in my life makes


    it all perfect.¡±


    ¡°Oh, so I¡¯m rankedst?¡± Dexter teased with a grin.


    Josie yfully held onto his arm, ¡°No way! You¡¯re my number one!¡±


    ¡°Being ranked thest doesn¡¯t matter to me anyway, Dexter reached out and affectionately pinched her


    cheek, noting she had gained some weight, which pleased him. ¡°How about having a child next year?¡±


    The question had an air of jest, but his gaze showed sincerity and yearning.


    Josie stared at him and nodded happily, ¡°Sure, let¡¯s do it¡±


    |||


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    1/2


    Dexter was pleasantly surprised by her enthusiastic response.


    ¡°We lost our child this year. I don¡¯t know if he or she would be willing toe back to us again.¡±


    The memory of the loss weighed heavily on Josie¡¯s heart every time she thought about it.


    Dexter held her close, his embraceforting. ¡°You¡¯re perfect. Our child wille back to us soon.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    The moon hung high, casting a gentle glow on their path. Despite the happiness, Josie couldn¡¯t shake


    off a sense of impending danger.


    At that moment, Larry, who had been discreetly following them, stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr.


    Russell.¡± He handed over a phone with an iing call.


    Dexter shot a warning nce at Larry. He didn¡¯t want to take the call tonight, but knowing that if it


    weren¡¯t urgent, Larry wouldn¡¯t have disrupted his time with Josie.


    Josie understood and said, ¡°You should take the call first.¡±


    Dexter nodded, took the phone, and moved aside to answer the call.


    Josie stood there, idly rubbing her arms, and an unfamiliar number popped up on her phone while she


    waited. She answered hesitantly, ¡°Hello?¡±Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Hi, Josie,¡± a voice tinged with resentment came from the other end.


    She froze and remained silent.


    ¡°You yed four-handed duets with another man with the piano skills I taught you.¡± It was a cautionary


    statement.


    He had seen the video.


    Morgan sneered, ¡°Did you think of me during the serenade?¡±


    Josie closed her eyes and coldly replied, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Josie.¡± It was a warning. He had seen the video, and his resentment was on the brink of spiraling


    out of control.

 Chapter 668

    Chapter 668


    Chapter 668 But You Left First


    ¡°I already said no.¡±


    Josie felt no obligations toward Morgan in any way, ¡°You left first, so you have no right to question me.¡±


    There was a moment of silence on the other end, and only heavy breathing could be heard.


    After a while, Josie was finally released from Dexter¡¯s grip, which had now turned cold.


    She grew impatient and said, ¡°There¡¯s nothing left for us to talk about. Bye.¡±


    Josie was quick and decisive, but she caught on to Morgan¡¯sst words before hanging up, ¡°Does


    Dexter know that I¡¯m the one who taught you to y the piano?¡±


    She observed Dexter standing tall in the chilly wind, still bogged down with the phone call.


    Dexter had no inkling of the situation, and she wondered how furious he would be if he learned the


    truth.


    She walked up to him and heard Dexter say to the other end of the phone, ¡°Keep an eye on it, and


    make sure there are no mistakes.¡±


    As the call ended, he turned around, and his cold expression hadn¡¯t yet softened when he met Josie¡¯s


    innocent face. Both froze for a moment.


    Josie was equally taken aback. Her prepared words momentarily choked up, ¡°What¡¯s going on? You


    look upset.¡±


    Dexter lowered his eyes, his tone visibly softened, ¡°Just some pettypany matters.¡±


    Josie was perplexed but slightly nodded, choosing not to press the issue.


    Dexter pulled her closer. She nced at him, wanting to say something but hesitated, ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± He waited expectantly for Josie to express herself.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    However, observing Dexter¡¯s continued sullen demeanor, Josie deduced that he must be under


    immense work pressure. Suppressing her urge, she shook her head and said, ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s getting too


    chilly out here; let¡¯s head home.¡±


    Dexter let it slide.


    Josie made a mental note to exin everything to Dexter when the right opportunity arose.


    As the New Year drew near, Paul grew restless at Mason Garden and expressed his desire to go for a


    walk. Josie had to apany him to the supermarket to buy ingredients for the uing celebration.


    With some free time, Paul seemed more rxed. ¡°Will Mr. Russell¡¯s grandfather join us on New Year¡¯s


    -Eve?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Josie replied, then hesitated. ¡°but given his old age and frailty, I thought it would be more


    comfortable to celebrate the New Year at the Russell Manor. How does that sound, Dad?¡±


    ¡°That sounds good to me,¡± Paul agreed.


    Josie teased him, ¡°You¡¯re the most amodating and open-minded dad ever!¡±


    O


    1/2


    ¡°What¡¯s so funny about that? Don¡¯t you think so?¡± Paul chuckled, and they both shared augh.


    Amidst the cheerful atmosphere, Josie brought up a more serious topic, ¡°Dad, were you a doctor


    before?¡±


    At this question, Paul¡¯s expression suddenly turned solemn. ¡°Did you peek into the box I kept, Josie?!¡±


    She raised her hands in surrender. ¡°I just opened it and took a quick look and happened to see your


    medical license.¡±


    Paul yfully pointed his finger at her, testing her, ¡°Oh, just a quick look?¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze wandered. ¡°I also saw a few thousand dors in there¡­


    Josie looked guilty but wasn¡¯t angry at all. She probably didn¡¯t see what was at the bottom, which


    seemed. to ease Paul¡¯s frowning expression. ¡°That¡¯s my pension money, don¡¯t even think about


    stealing it.¡±


    Josieughed, ¡°Who wants your money? But you still haven¡¯t answered me. Were you a doctor


    before?¡±


    Regarding this question, Paul clearly didn¡¯t want to say much. ¡°Huh? It happened so long ago¡­ I can¡¯t


    seem to recall anything about it.¡±


    ¡°How could you forget? This¡­¡±


    Paul suddenly picked up his pace, appearing to be avoiding the topic. ¡°Why would I joke about this?


    Mentioning it gives me a headache. Let¡¯s not talk about it anymore.¡±


    Josie had no choice but to fall silent, frowning at the old man¡¯s fading figure, feeling somewhat helpless


    as she thought he was acting like a child.


    The Russell family was grand, but Dexter had no ns to participate in the ancestral rites this year.


    After all, they were about to send Yanis in, and it would be too awkward to meet now.


    Old Mr. Russell had no objections. ¡°I¡¯m old; it¡¯s up to you to decide for the Russell family now. Whatever


    you say goes.¡±

 Chapter 669

    Chapter 669


    Chapter 669 The New Year¡¯s Gift from Dexter


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Picking up on the disgruntlement behind his words, Josie remarked, ¡°Grandpa sounds upset.¡±


    Dexter continued typing away on the keyboard, dealing with business matters. ¡°Family ties run deep.


    It¡¯s normal for him to be upset.¡±


    ¡°Grandpa is already at the age of the heavenly mand¨¢te. His children are also in their old age. He


    probably doesn¡¯t want to see this kind of situation happen in the family.¡± Josie carefully chose her


    words as she poured him a ss of water.


    ¡°Nobody ever wished for this.¡± Dexter looked up. ¡°Yanis should have known that this day woulde


    when he plotted against me with outsiders.¡±


    He had always sought revenge for any harm done to him, especially when it was inflicted by a family.


    member.


    Josie nodded.


    ¡°So, are we still returning to Russell Manor for New Year?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s fingers hovered over the keyboard, pausing for a moment. He then took the water ss from


    her hand, gently ced it on the table, and reluctantly pulled her into his arms.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Josie curved her lips, sitting on hisp and running her fingers through his slightly prickly hair.


    ¡°Do


    you


    think I¡¯m crude?¡± he mumbled, burying his head in her embrace and savoring her sweet scent.


    ¡°No,¡± Josie whispered. ¡°you had a tough time in Spain, and I understand.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not just that, Dexter carried on, saying, ¡°if that incident hadn¡¯t happened, you wouldn¡¯t havee


    to Spain with me, wouldn¡¯t have had a car ident, and wouldn¡¯t have begged Mark to help me. Jo,


    you don¡¯t need to burden yourself with those memories. I¡¯ll remember them for you.¡±


    In Dexter¡¯s mind, Yanis and his aplices were to me, and he was determined to make them pay.


    Upon hearing this, a warm feeling rushed through Josie¡¯s heart. She might have endured hardships,


    but she was never forgotten by him.


    Wavery had an umonly snowless and warm winter with clear and calm weather this year. The


    Russell family lived in peace, and on New Year¡¯s Eve morning, Josie received two gifts: one from


    Dexter and one from her father.


    Paul slipped one thousand cash into an envelope and gave it to Josie. It felt substantial when she


    touched it. Half-jokingly, she quipped, ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve given me all your pension


    money.¡±


    Paul yfully flicked her forehead. Take it, and stop asking questions!¡±


    Josie was delighted.


    It had been ages since she received any special gifts, but this year she got two. It wasn¡¯t just about the


    gift but the feeling of being cared for that warmed her heart.


    Next, she picked up the one from Dexter, which felt thin. yfully dissatisfied, she teased, ¡°Dad is so


    1/2


    generous. Why are you so stingy?¡±


    Dexter chuckled, leaned in, and nted a kiss on her lips. ¡°Open it and take a look.¡±


    Curious, she tore open the envelope, finding a bank card inside.


    Josie was taken aback.


    ¡°The pin number is our wedding anniversary, Dexter added.


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°How much money did you load on it?¡±


    ¡°You and your money fixation. Well, go to the bank and check it yourself.¡±


    Josie held onto him, and Dexter had no choice but to gesture the numbers-two and four.


    She turned her head; twenty-four matched her age this year.


    ¡°Two thousand four?¡± she asked.


    Dexter got up and left.


    ¡°Twenty-four thousand?¡± Josie held his hand and probed.


    Dexter affectionately pinched her cheek.


    She took a wilder guess, ¡°It can¡¯t be two hundred and forty thousand, can it?¡±


    That would be the bonus for the two projects shepleted!


    The man sighed. ¡°Two hundred and forty million.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Josie eximed, utterly bbergasted, ¡°Why in the world would you give me so much money?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a New Year¡¯s gift from me.¡± Dexter stayed calm, gently patting her head. ¡°The little girl is growing


    up; she deserves a grand present.¡±


    To him, this money wasn¡¯t a significant sum. He always wanted to ensure Josie had something for


    security in case of emergencies and when he was not around.


    ¡°It¡¯s too much, Dex¡­¡± Josie still couldn¡¯t believe it.


    ¡°Just take it.¡±


    Dexter was undoubtedly wealthy. Josie couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the extent of his personal


    fortune. and how many more two hundred and forty millions he had in possession.

 Chapter 670

    Chapter 670


    Chapter 670 Something Had Happened!


    ¡°Dexter, you know we never signed a prenuptial agreement. If we divorce, you¡¯re not subject to paying


    me any alimony,¡± Josie said yfully, holding her face thoughtfully.


    It was New Year¡¯s, and Josie wanted to amuse him with her witty response. ¡°You¡¯re quite the expert at


    calctions, aren¡¯t you, Josie?¡± Dexter teased, looking at her with affection.


    She gave him a yful doe-eyed look. ¡°The Russell family¡¯s legal team never loses. You can ask


    them,¡± Dexter confidently stated, knowing they wouldn¡¯t let her take a single penny.


    ¡°You seem disappointed. Do you really want a divorce?¡±


    Dexter sealed her words with a kiss as if he couldn¡¯t get enough of her.


    Breathless from the kiss, Josie repeatedly shook her head, signaling she didn¡¯t want a divorce.


    In this gap. Dexter suddenly lost his focus for a moment. He remembered the divorce agreement he


    had signed with Paul¡­ Hopefully, that agreement will never be brought up.


    As the day passed peacefully, the couple and Paul gathered at Russell Manor to celebrate the New


    Year together.


    Henry still appeared upset, evident from his expression. Still, with the cheerful atmosphere and many


    people around, the anger eventually dissipated.


    After the New Year¡¯s Eve celebration, Josie hurried to the courtyard to y with fireworks. Dexter


    joined her, looking at her dotingly as if Josie were his daughter.


    Amidst the vibrant fireworks disy, Dexter suddenly said, ¡°I don¡¯t think we should have a daughter


    together.¡±


    Josie looked confused. ¡°Why? Are you against having daughters and only prefer sons?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid if she looks too much like you. I won¡¯t be able to let her go and might even stop her from


    getting married in the future.¡±


    Each word felt like a glimpse into the distant future, spanning over twenty years.


    Josie blushed, tiptoed, and delicately brushed off the debris from the fireworks that had fallen onto his


    hair.


    Dexter could hear the rhythm of her heartbeat and instantly leaned forward, kissing her tenderly.


    This kiss under the enchanting fireworks seemed to stretch on forever. Eventually, Josie was left


    breathless and nestled her head in his arms.


    She heard his hypnotizing hoarse voice saying, ¡°Jo, our third year together ising.¡±


    Unbeknownst to them, two years had flown by, and Josie¡¯s heart was pounding with excitement too.


    Just then, Dexter¡¯s phone in his pocket suddenly rang. She took it out for him, and it was an


    anonymous number.


    Dexter nced at the phone before reaching out to answer it.


    |||


    1/2


    He turned slightly, leaving Josie puzzled. She had a feeling that he seemed to be under some


    psychological


    pressure.


    Anxiously, she approached him. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    There was a strange cryptic look in his eyes, making it hard for her to discern.


    Dexter gazed fondly at Josie, forcing a smile. The office has somest-minute matters to deal with.


    Tonight, I may have to leave my lovely wife to sleep alone.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie immediately breathed a sigh of relief. She thought something serious had


    happened. ¡°Alright, Mrs. Russell approves.¡±


    Dexter leaned down and gave her a tight hug. ¡°Wait for me toe back.¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Be careful on the road.¡±


    He entered the manor, exining to his grandfather and Paul, who were watching TV, before stepping


    away and turning back to catch a glimpse of Josic.


    She stood under the colorful fireworks, looking radiant and full of life.


    With a warm smile, she waved at him.


    Only then did Dexter get into the car.


    For some reason, Josie felt that he was acting strangely, but she couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on what


    exactly seemed amiss.


    She thought perhaps she was just being paranoid.


    After Dexter left, Josie spent some time watching television with the elders. Suddenly, her phone rang.


    It was Laura calling.


    Without much thought, she answered, ¡°Happy New Year, Laura!¡±


    Laura spoke in a hushed voice, ¡°Something bad happened!¡±

 Chapter 671

    Chapter 671


    Chapter 671 Arnold Carter! You¡¯re A Selfish Scumb*g!


    ¡°I just got word that the project handled by Carter Grouppany haspletely fallen apart!¡± Josie¡¯s


    face turned pale at the news. ¡°How is that even possible?¡±


    The two elders looked worried.


    reporters


    ¡°Today is New Year¡¯s Eve, and very few people know about this yet. The police and are still in the dark,


    but it did copse. I¡¯m not sure if anyone got hurt!¡± Laura quickly exined.


    A chill ran down Josie¡¯s spine. ¡°This can¡¯t be true! How could it copse? I personally supervised all the


    materials!¡±


    The fact that Laura received this information indicated that there was a source. ¡°By tomorrow morning,


    this news will be all over the ce.¡±


    After hanging up, Josie was still in shock. But regardless, she couldn¡¯t ignore the situation. She stood


    up and said, ¡°Dad, Grandpa, I have an urgent matter at work. I need to go out for a while. You both


    should rest early!¡±


    ¡°Ah! In such a hurry on New Year¡¯s Eve?¡± Old Mr. Russell was also worried.


    Josie didn¡¯t have time to exin. Hastily changing her shoes, she grabbed the car keys and assured


    them, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be right back.¡±


    She rushed out, and the old man¡¯s voice warning her to drive safely lingered in the background.


    ¡°Ah, young people are always busy with work these days.¡±


    Old Mr. Russell resumed his seat, exchanging nces with Paul, ¡°I hope everything¡¯s alright¡­¡±


    Josie randomly selected a car from the garage and headed straight to the construction site.


    Fortunately, it was New Year¡¯s Day, and the roads were rtively clear, allowing her to drive. smoothly.


    However, she was sweating profusely while driving.


    How could the building copse?


    Hopefully, there are no casualties, but if there are¡­


    Josie couldn¡¯t imagine the potential implications this might have on her studio. Once the news broke


    tomorrow, it would undoubtedly be a massive setback.


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    1/3


    As Josie arrived at the scene, she noticed a few people scattered around the construction site, all


    wearing safety helmets with lighting equipment attached.


    Her heart skipped a beat when she saw the central part of the site had copsed, and the extent of the


    damage appeared irreparable.


    Her heart racing with anxiety and shock, she hurried to the scene and questioned, ¡°What¡¯s happening?


    Are there people stuck under the debris?¡±


    However, no one seemed to notice her, let alone respond to her desperate questions.


    Growing frustrated, she turned to one of the workers wearing a safety helmet. She firmly gripped his


    arm, pleading, ¡°Please, you have to tell me what¡¯s happening!¡±


    The person was visibly nervous, perspiring profusely. ¡°W-who are you¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the project¡¯s designer. Tell me, please!¡± Josie shouted, her anger rising.


    The fear was evident on the person¡¯s face, and he nervously wiped off the sweat, saying, ¡°¡­I-I think


    there are people down there, trapped¡­¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank.


    Suddenly, a booming voice came from behind her, ¡°Josie?! What in the world are you doing here?¡±


    She turned her head and saw Arnold striding towards her furiously.


    He, too, was wearing a safety helmet, his face flushed with


    rage.


    He reached out and grabbed her arm, trying to pull her


    away.


    ¡°What were you thinkinging here? You should¡¯ve stayed home!¡± he scolded.


    Josie pushed back against his grip, her hand instinctively striking him with a resounding p.


    ¡®Smack!¡±


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The impact of the p caused Arnold¡¯s head to jerk to the side.


    ¡°I personally supervised the recement of those materials. How could this happen?¡± Josie eximed,


    her anger evident in her trembling voice. ¡°Did you have a hand in this?¡±


    Despite the p reddening and burning his face, Arnold maintained a stoic demeanor.


    Josie locked eyes with him, ¡°The construction finished three days ahead of schedule. Something


    seems off, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


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    O


    2/3


    Arnold didn¡¯t utter a word.


    ¡°You must have pushed the workers to work overtime secretly during the night, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Arnold grabbed her arm, attempting to pull her away.


    ¡°Let¡¯s discuss this outside. It¡¯s not safe here.¡±


    Josie broke free abruptly, striking him. ¡°Arnold Carter! You¡¯re a selfish s*umbag!¡±

 Chapter 672

    Chapter 672


    Chapter 672 Someone Died


    Arnold dragged Josie to a deste spot and released his grip on her. The bright lights illuminated the


    p marks on his face.


    Panting heavily, Josie confronted him, ¡°Is it true?¡±


    ¡°D¡±mn you, yes!¡± Arnold bellowed angrily, his neck veins bulging. ¡°I pushed the workers to work extra


    hours during the night!¡±


    After learning the truth, Josie took a step back. ¡°Did you go back to using the shoddy materials?¡±


    Arnold turned his face away. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter now; talking about this is pointless.¡±


    Pointless?


    Josie had taken on many projects, and there had never been any mistakes or idents. But this time,


    there was a possibility that lives were lost.


    She gazed at the copsed area, now a ruin, dark and starkly contrasting to the light on this side.


    ¡°Why did


    you do this? You already have an alliance with the Olsen family. You can¡¯t be short. of money. Why did


    you take it this far?¡±


    She kept pushing Arnold for answers, desperate to understand the motives behind his selfish. decision.


    Arnold remained tight-lipped.


    ¡°People died on New Year¡¯s Eve. Do you know what that means, Arnold?¡±


    ¡°So what? There are countless projects in Wavery across the entire country. Haven¡¯t there been


    casualties before? Even the Russell Group had its share of idents. I can easily bury this news, so


    f*ck that!¡±


    Arnold snapped, anger evident as he punched the wall, causing his knuckles to bleed.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Josie eximed in disbelief and expressed her frustration, ¡°Don¡¯t you see? The Russell Group incident


    is why I supervised this project so closely! Our history together demanded it!¡±


    However, she never anticipated that Arnold would secretly pressure the site workers to workte nights


    on the project.


    The copse urred shortly after the project¡¯spletion, indicating the use of severely


    |||


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    1/3


    substandard materials.


    With a heavy heart, Josie watched Arnold¡¯s reckless actions lead him into a pit despite her efforts to


    save him.


    The person in charge¡¯s excessive amodation back then had now made sense; they were only


    trying to appease her.


    Arnold appeared momentarily surprised by her statement, but a scornful smile spread across. his lips,


    ¡°No matter what challenges the Carter Group encounters, just like the Russells, we¡¯lle out


    stronger!¡±


    Josie was so furious that it took her a while to calm down.


    ¡°Heck! Why are you selling yourself short like this? Remember how cocky you were when you asked


    me if I¡¯d be your mistress? Where did that confidence go?¡±


    The man¡¯s eyes gleamed with unresolved emotions at Josie¡¯s confrontation.


    ¡°At first, Laura was eager to take over this project, but I had reservations, so I asked if were up for it.


    Do you remember what you said to me back then?¡±


    you


    The current situation was far from what Arnold had promised her back then.


    With frustration evident on his face, Arnold turned away. He located a safety helmet, which he promptly


    ced on her head. ¡°Leave it to me; I know what to do. Everyone will still be lost in the festivities


    tomorrow, enjoying a happy and harmonious New Year!¡±


    Just as Josie was about to say something, he promptly tightened the safety helmet, hushing and


    gesturing for her to stay out of it, ¡°You don¡¯t need to get mixed up in this. Just act like you weren¡¯t even


    here today and pretend you know nothing about it.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Suddenly, a man hurriedly approached from the center of the ruins. He was drenched in sweat, and his


    voice quivered, ¡°Mr. Carter, there¡¯s someone¡­ someone trapped down there¡­¡±


    Josie shuddered, feeling Arnold tense up beside her.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Someone¡­ someone identified him; his name is Will, and he¡¯s from the construction team¡­¡±


    ¡°Is he alive?¡±


    There was no response, only silence.


    In shock, Josie screamed, pushing Arnold away, and sprinted toward the center of the ruins.


    She fought through the crowd and was horrified to find Will trapped under immense debris, his body


    contorted and lifeless gruesomely.


    Her stomach churned, and she spun around, vomiting.

 Chapter 673

    Chapter 673


    Chapter 673 You Can¡¯t Silence Me


    Not long ago, Will and Josie had a heated argument about the materials, but now, he was gone in the


    blink of an eye.


    in the b


    Josie crouched down on the side, taking time to regain her


    Arnold hurriedly walked over, asking, ¡°It¡¯s New Year¡¯s Eve. What was he doing here?¡±


    ¡°I heard¡­ I heard he wasn¡¯t at ease with this project and always wanted toe and check on it. After


    his family gathering on New Year¡¯s Eve, he took a stroll and ended up nearby, so¡­¡±


    After exining, nobody said anything.


    No one could decide momentarily whether he was to me for the ident or if it was his fate.


    After a brief pause, Arnold closed his eyes, ¡°Before dawn breaks, take care of the body, inform his


    family, offerpensation, and make sure they speak nothing about it.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Josie took in everything and finally stood tall. She shot a frosty, hollow stare at Arnold. ¡°And what


    happens next?¡±


    Arnold locked eyes with her from afar, exuding a chilly and distant aura. ¡°In this world, money rules.


    Even some people¡¯s lives can be bought.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s brutally frank words made Josie¡¯s stomach churn once more.


    Her expression became intricate as she inquired, ¡°And what about me? Can you silence me too?¡±


    ¡°Can you buy my life as well?¡±


    Josie¡¯s words carried an emotional weight that silenced everyone present.


    Tears welled up in her eyes, and she felt profound sorrow. In her heart, Will was a devoted team leader.


    When they worked together, his employees spoke highly of him, emphasizing how he never dyed


    paying their sries,


    Despite theirter disagreements over different ideas, Josie didn¡¯t believe it was his fault.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    After all, Will was a living, breathing person!


    |||


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    1/3


    Hearing Josie¡¯s words, Arnold momentarily gave her a cold and distant gaze.


    Then, he removed the safety helmet and signaled for her to follow.


    He walked away, his once imposing figure now looking small amidst the vast ruins.


    Josie took a deep breath and eventually caught up with him.


    As she approached, Arnold opened the car door. Inside were loaded with gifts prepared by Andy for


    Will¡¯s family, and he handed Arnold some documents. ¡°Mr. Carter, all of Will¡¯s information is right here.¡±


    Arnold skimmed through it and said, ¡°You can go home


    Andy was frantic, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I go instead? If you show up, the situation might get out of control.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I need you to go back and keep an eye on public opinion online.¡±


    Arnold said, gesturing at Josie. ¡°I¡¯m heading to console Will¡¯s family. Do you want to tag along?¡±


    Perplexed, Josie could only follow Arnold; he was in charge of the project.


    Arnold took the driver¡¯s seat and drove the car from a side road onto the main road.


    On New Year¡¯s Day, the streets and roads in Wavery were eerily quiet, and Josie sat in the passenger


    seat with a perturbed look.


    Neither of them spoke.


    After an unspecified period, the front began to show some activity. Josie raised her noticed the sign:


    Trinity Wavery Hospital.


    gaze and


    Frowning, she asked, ¡°Why are we at the hospital?¡±


    Arnold stepped out of the car and retrieved many gifts from the trunk. ¡°Will has a son with cancer. The


    family exhausted all their savings for his treatment, and his wife is spending the New Year at the


    hospital keeping the sonpany.¡±


    Josie was taken aback; she hadn¡¯t expected this situation.


    ¡°That¡¯s why he chose to work as a contractor on our construction site. His son¡¯s cancer is a financial


    burden; they need the money.¡±


    Arnold continued, saying, ¡°Taking on projects involves risks; everyone is staking their life on it:


    With his long strides, Josie had to jog to keep up.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t have to die; he could¡¯ve earned more money for his family¡¯s medical


    ¡°Do you think they feel the same way?¡±


    Arnold blurted out the ugly truth.


    Josie was momentarily speechless. expenses!¡±

 Chapter 674

    Chapter 674


    Chapter 674 Happy New Year


    Josie and Arnold strolled by the hospital¡¯s security checkpoint.


    Since it was New Year¡¯s Day, the hospital buzzed with a festive atmosphere, trying to cope with a


    challenging situation.


    Arnold and Josie reached the ward entrance, where they saw everyone gathered around the TV with


    meat loaves and candies on the table.


    The three hospital beds were filled, and most of the patients lying on them were bald with pale faces.


    Arnold stepped forward and went straight to the third bed. He grinned and said, ¡°You must be Lucia.¡±


    Josie followed closely.


    Taken aback by the unexpected presence of a tall and handsome young man, Lucia promptly got to her


    feet. ¡°Yes, I am. And you are¡­¡±


    ¡°I am Will¡¯s boss. The project has ended, so I came to wish him a Happy New Year.¡±


    Arnold ced the gifts on the table.


    The middle-aged woman bore the marks of life¡¯s hardships, evident from the wrinkles on her smiling


    face.


    ¡°That¡¯s very thoughtful of you to visit. Unfortunately, Will isn¡¯t here right now. He should be back soon.¡±


    Despite the cheerful ambiance, Josie felt deep sorrow, and tears welled up once more.


    ¡°Sir, please have a seat.¡± The boy lying on the bed kindly gestured to a chair.


    He seemed to be about sixteen or seventeen, appearing frail and weak due to his illness. However,


    warmth radiated from him when he smiled, showing no sign of decay.


    ¡°My dad will be back soon.¡±


    Lucia was busy attending to Arnold and Josie. ¡°You know, the hospital is very basic without proper


    tools; they don¡¯t even have decent tea. I apologize for the poor hospitality.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m not a tea drinker.¡± Arnold stopped her.


    ¡°Could


    youe outside with me for a moment? I have something to ask you to convey to.


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    1/3


    Will.¡±


    Considering the presence of the child, he spoke very tactfully.


    Perceiving Arnold¡¯s cryptic hint, the woman¡¯s initially rxed expression faltered momentarily.


    She nced at Josie, gleaning that something was amiss, and a flicker of panic crossed her face.


    Arnold led the woman outside, and Josie chose to stay behind; the atmosphere was somber and harsh,


    and she wished to spare herself any further distress.


    Seeing that Josie had stayed back, the boy offered a handful of candies with a warm smile. ¡°Happy


    New Year, little missy. Help yourself to some candies.¡±


    Despite the bitterness in her heart, Josie smiled and took one from the bunch. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She gracefully took a seat. ¡°How old are you this year?¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°After the New Year, I¡¯ll be eighteen.¡±


    In the prime of his youth, while other eighteen-year-olds were enjoying a cheerful New Year with their


    families, he was stuck in this confined and mncholic hospital room.


    ¡°What an exciting age! I believe things will get better for you in the future.¡±


    The boy seemed a bit downhearted. ¡°Will it really get better? I don¡¯t want to burden. my parents.¡±


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes as she choked on the candy. She shook her head reassuringly. ¡°It will


    get better; trust me.¡±


    To be terminally ill at such a vibrant age and losing his father, how could he bear it?


    Josie couldn¡¯t imagine the pain he endured..


    As Josie left the ward, she couldn¡¯t find Arnold. It wasn¡¯t until she had walked a fair distance. that she


    suddenly heard the sound of a woman sobbing. She turned and saw Lucia huddled in the dimly lit


    corridor, crying uncontrobly.


    Her copse clearly indicated that she had already learned the devastating truth.


    Standing beside her was the man, his face expressionless and his fingertips glowing crimson as he


    chain-smoked one cigarette after another.


    After a while, he finally broke the silence. ¡°How much do you need? The Carter Group can cover it.¡±

 Chapter 675

    Chapter 675


    Chapter 675 I Know Where Dexter Is


    Reducing a life and a family¡¯s value to mere money felt heartless, disheartening, and despicable.


    Lucia copsed to the ground. ¡°Before he left, our son said he wanted cherry pies from his favorite


    bakery, but¡­ but¡­¡±


    Lucia¡¯s voice faltered, and Josie couldn¡¯t face her.


    ¡°When things were toughest for our family, Will once said he wished he could get hit by a car just to get


    compensation for our son¡¯s medical expenses.¡±


    Her voice was numb, tears welling up, ¡°I never thought it woulde true.¡±


    Arnold took a slow drag on his cigarette.


    After a while, Lucia stood up. ¡°I want you to be ountable for my son¡¯s medical and nutritional


    expenses until he gets better.¡±


    Lucia¡¯s appeal was entirely warranted, showing her sensibility andpassion.


    Arnold frowned. ¡°Of course, besides that, you can also request additionalpensation.¡±


    ¡°He gave his life for this project, and I don¡¯t want to treat his life as a means to make


    money.¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The woman had endured numerous hardships in life, yet she upheld her and her husband¡¯s dignity.


    Josie felt a profound admiration for her.


    After speaking, Lucia walked toward the ward with her weary body. When she reached the door, she


    paused, took a deep breath, and entered.


    The dimly lit corridor was now empty, leaving only Josie and Arnold. They stood. sensing the gravity of


    life.


    ¡°You knew it all,¡±


    apart.


    Josie confronted him as they exited the hospital. Standing in the cold breeze, she felt a sense of rity.


    Arnold pulled a cigarette from the pack, lit it, and exhaled a cloud of smoke.


    ¡°You were aware of Will¡¯s family situation when you selected his construction team for this project. He


    was desperate, ready to shoulder all the me for you if anything went wrong.¡±


    O


    1/2


    Commercialpetition always instilled fear in people.


    Arnold blew out the smoke, which hung in the air before him. ¡°Don¡¯t act like so well. I never thought that


    way.¡±


    you


    know me


    ¡°The facts presented to me don¡¯t align with your ims,¡± Josie said, feeling a sense of unease with the


    man beside her.


    Right from the start of their acquaintance, she sensed that Arnold was a mysterious and sinister figure.


    She had been na?ve to believe he was a lonely man with a conscience.


    Arnold remained silent.


    After a while, Josie nced up and was taken aback to see him trembling as he held the cigarette. At


    the same time, the bloodstains on the back of his hand made him look more like. a desperado.


    He took a deep breath and offered his final response. ¡°No matter what you believe, I never intended for


    anyone to die.¡±


    Josie continued walking.


    ¡°If this incident hadn¡¯t happened, I¡¯d be at the Olsen family¡¯s right now, raising sses with those phony


    hippos and hypocritical people instead of standing here in the cold.¡± Arnold¡¯s voice trailed after her,


    repeating, ¡°I didn¡¯t want this, Josie.¡±


    Hearing this, she finally stopped in her tracks.


    So, Arnold was celebrating the New Year with the Olsen family today. No wonder Laura wind of the


    project ident so quickly.


    got


    Seeing her stop, Arnold approached and firmly grasped her cold wrist. ¡°And what about you? You¡¯re


    alone at home on New Year¡¯s Day, yet you rushed here so swiftly.¡±


    Josie was caught off guard and red at Arnold. ¡°I came because I was concerned about the


    ident.¡±


    A faint smile appeared at the corner of Arnold¡¯s mouth. ¡°Really? Would Dexter have allowed. you to


    come if he was with you?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not the kind of person you described!¡± Josie wanted to break free, feeling that this man. was


    being unreasonable.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to deny it because I know where Dexter is tonight.¡±


    She froze.

 Chapter 676

    Chapter 676


    Chapter 676 He Has Fallen in Love With Her


    ¡°Where is he?¡±


    Amidst the tension, Arnold cracked a joke and said, ¡°You finally admit he¡¯s not at home.¡±


    How shameless! Josie realized she had fallen for his cunning words. She was seething with anger and


    yearned to break free from his hold.


    Arnold firmly grasped her hand as they crossed the pedestrian crossing, approaching the pharmacy on


    the other side.


    ¡°I will tell you everything after you treat my wound,¡± he said, tightly gripping her hand.


    Josie was like a marite, helplessly being led by Arnold.


    He bought medicine and gauze, cing them before her, andmanded, ¡°Tend to the


    wound.¡±


    Anger thrummed through her veins as Josie grabbed a cotton swab to clean Arnold¡¯s hand. Half-


    expecting to wince in pain as the alcohol touched his skin, he bit his lower lips.


    When Josie looked up, she saw Arnold frowning in silence. Disheartened, she became gentler while


    tending to his wound and murmured, ¡°Violent men reap what they sow.¡±


    Arnold remainedposed as she tended his wound and asked, ¡°Are you in such a hurry today


    because of me?¡±


    Josie jerked a sharp breath and swallowed dryly as Laura asked a simr question. Josie quickly shook


    it off and continued, ¡°I helped you, thinking you¡¯d return the favor for a clean te. It¡¯s a pity you can¡¯t


    appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°No one¡¯s looking for a clean te here,¡± Arnold¡¯s voice was icy as he held her chin firmly, locking eyes


    with her.


    Josie¡¯s breath was caught in her throat as she caught a whiff of his cold tobo scent.


    Suddenly, she curved her lips and burst intoughter as if something funny had been said.


    Arnold furrowed his brows in confusion.


    ¡°Arnold, you couldn¡¯t possibly be falling for me, could you? This is beyond the boundaries of friends or


    foes. Can I take this as a confession?¡± Josie¡¯s smile faded slightly as she spoke. She had hoped Arnold


    would deny it and mock her for being self-centered instead.


    An ufortable silence lingered in the air. Finally, he stared at Josie with cold, piercing


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    eyes and uttered, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart lurched.


    ¡°I helped you, andter I threatened to make you my lover, all because I fell in love with. you, Josie,¡±


    Arnold announced. His muscles stiffened, and his heart was thudding at the back of his. throat as he


    uttered those words.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it ridiculous? I¡¯m in love with the in and foolish Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie stood frozen in ce, avoiding his gaze. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for jokes,¡± she said dismissively.


    ¡°I¡¯m not joking,¡± Arnold insisted as he forcefully turned her back to face him. ¡°You should divorce


    Dexter.¡±


    Josie scoffed at hismand. ¡°Are you out of your mind? I am and will remain Dexter¡¯s wife. What


    gives you the audacity to ask for a divorce? And even if I did, what about Summer?¡±


    She realized the unyielding connection between the Olsen and Carter families.


    you and


    However, to her surprise, Arnold seemed to see a glimmer of hope in her words. He whispered in her


    ear, ¡°Divorcing her is just a matter of time. Someone like Summer cannot hold me back.¡±


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    His unwavering conviction surprised Josie. Those words were throbbing in her head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to


    leave him,¡± Arnold murmured, lowering his head to nt icy lips on her fair neck, sending shivers down


    her spine. He seemed utterly engrossed by the act as he whispered sweetly, ¡°I can wait.¡±


    She felt like she was going mad-insane!

 Chapter 677

    Chapter 677


    Chapter 677 Lianne Has Been Found


    The sensation of his kisses lingered, and a wave of fury surged through her.


    Her heart was thundering as she forcefully pushed Arnold away and gasped for air. ¡°I don¡¯t want to


    hear any of this. Where is Dexter?¡± she demanded.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    He noticed a glint of distress in her


    eyes.


    As Arnold remained silent, Josie quickly dialed Dexter¡¯s number. The phone rang for forty- six seconds,


    yet there was no response.


    Why isn¡¯t he picking up the phone?


    Josie was persistent and dialed again. After a few rings, Arnold interrupted, ¡°Forget about it. He won¡¯t


    answer your call tonight.¡±


    Her brows furrowed as fear coiled in her stomach. Reluctant to believe, she demanded, ¡°What do you


    know? Has something happened to him? Speak up, Arnold!¡±


    With his back against the wall, Arnold squinted as the ring lights in the pharmacy stung his eyes. He


    closed them briefly before speaking, ¡°Don¡¯t you know? Lianne has been found.¡±


    The slow and deliberate words froze Josie on the spot, and her heart went cold. ¡°What?¡± Her voice was


    barely audible.


    ¡°Lianne has been found. Tonight, on New Year¡¯s Eve, she was brought back to the Olsen. family for the


    New Year. They are weing her home.¡±


    There was a tinge of mockery in Arnold. Josie opened her mouth to respond, but no words. came out.


    She was at a loss for what to say.


    Was the call Dexter received a while ago about this matter? Did he leave her behind to meet Lianne as


    soon as he found out?


    She could hardly believe it; Lianne hade back.


    She had hoped that Lianne was alive and back, but only if she was certain of Dexter¡¯s love for her.


    Even if Lianne returned, she remained confident in their rtionship¡¯s strength, forged through


    countless trials and tribtions.


    But now she was back.


    An impending doom slowly crept in.


    Lianne had always been someone special to Dexter. But now, uncertainty loomed over Josie.


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    Would Dexter choose Lianne over her in the future? She felt her confidence faltered.


    Arnold taunted Josie, ¡°Surprised?¡± Her face turned pale as the blood drained out of her face. ¡°You and


    Dexter aren¡¯t as strong as you believed.¡±


    Josie retorted bitterly, ¡°Don¡¯t act like you know me so well.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it true? He went to the Olsen¡¯s house tonight, and you didn¡¯t know, did you? He doesn¡¯t even trust


    you enough to share this,¡± Arnold taunted.


    Once again, Josie felt a stab in her heart and clenched her fists. ¡°This is between us, and you¡¯re


    meddling too much.¡±


    She strode away from the pharmacy. There weren¡¯t many cars on the road, and her car remained


    parked at the construction site. She had no choice but to walk as the cold wind. blew against her face.


    Josie couldn¡¯t find the courage to make a third call to Dexter. She feared it might interrupt. his reunion


    with Lianne.


    Before Lianne¡¯s return, everything was mere spection. Now that she was back, it shattered. Josie¡¯s


    assumptions and left her powerless.


    In the distance, the sound of a car horn red. It was Arnold catching up in his vehicle. He rolled down


    the window and said, ¡°Mason Garden is 30 kilometers away. Save your energy and hop in.¡±


    Josie ignored him and insisted on walking.


    The car screeched to a halt. Arnold walked up to Josie, lifted her, and shoved her into the car.

 Chapter 678

    Chapter 678


    Chapter 678 Nightmare


    Arnold pressed Josie into the front passenger seat and put on the seatbelt for her.


    She ceased struggling and appeared to have given up.


    Arnold drove the car along the empty street and did not speak to her. He did not stop until the car


    arrived near Mason Garden.


    Still, he did not unlock the door but said, ¡°Believe me when I say that the headlines for the next few


    days will not be about the construction issue but about the Olsen family finding their beloved long-lost


    daughter.¡±


    Josie believed him. Still, she did not respond but stared ahead nkly.


    She did not doubt that Arnold could suppress the news about the construction failure. Furthermore,


    information about Liana¡¯s return to the Olsen family would shock the nation.


    After all, everyone knew the Olsen family had been searching for her for more than ten years. Now that


    they finally found her, the media was eager to cover the news extensively.


    Arnold turned to Josie. ¡°I will ask someone to bring your car here tomorrow.¡±


    Then, he unlocked the car door.


    Josie did not respond. She unfastened the seatbelt and entered Mason Garden.


    It waste, so no one was in the vi except a dozing-off servant. She was astonished to see Josie


    dejectedly entering the vi and blinked a few times to ensure it was not a dream. Then, she said, ¡°Mrs.


    Russell¡­ Why are you back at this hour? I thought you were staying the night in Russell Mansion.¡±


    Josie was exhausted and did not feel like exining. The servant knew not to press further and kept


    quiet as she watched Josie walk away.


    Too many things had happened tonight, and each matter stretched the limit of her endurance. Having


    to experience them all at once left her physically and mentally exhausted.


    All she wanted was a good night¡¯s sleep. However, shey on the cold bed wide awake, unable to


    sleep a wink.


    If not for the asional sound of fireworks outside, she would have forgotten that it was New Year.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She gathered the courage to check her phone, but there were no notifications. Dexter did not call back


    or send a message.


    She could not help but wonder what he was doing.


    Is he with Liana?


    They must have many things to talk about.


    The thought sent a stab to her heart. She curled up her body and covered her ears in despair, trying to


    stop herself from specting further.


    No, Dexter is not like that.


    Josie, you should trust him.


    She kept telling herself this and finally fell asleep after much difficulty. However, she had a nightmare.


    Josie dreamed she was talking with Will, but Will suddenly turned into a corpse lying on a pile of ruins.


    She ran away in panic, only to see Dexter and an unknown woman embracing. They seemed intimate,


    like a real married couple.


    Josie could not stand watching them and screamed as she awoke from the dream. Her clothes. were


    drenched with sweat.


    Then, she nced outside and saw it was almost dawn.


    A servant knocked on the door. ¡°Are you okay, Mrs. Russell? Should Ie in?¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips were dry. She mumbled, ¡°No.¡±


    She did not dare to fall asleep again. Instead, she curled up in bed and waited quietly for daylight.


    Three hourster, when the sky was bright, Josie heard the noises of a caring to the vi. It was


    Arnold¡¯s staff bringing her car back. She listened to the servant talking to the


    person briefly.


    Around another half an hourter, she heard noises of a Porscheing into the yard and parked


    there. A servant greeted, ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Although the noises came from downstairs, they felt like they came from another world.


    Josie listened and heard Dexter enter the vi. He came upstairs and carefully turned the doorknob. It


    seemed he was afraid of waking her.


    Once he entered, he walked stealthily to the bed and lifted the nket to look at Josie.

 Chapter 679

    Chapter 679


    Chapter 679 Dexter Was Out All Night


    When Dexter came out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel, he was surprised to see Josie seated at


    the corner of the bed. ¡°Why not sleep a bit more?¡±


    Josie hugged her knees and looked at him. ¡°I can¡¯t sleep anymore. Why were you out the whole night?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes flickered with expectation as she asked this question. She hoped Dexter would answer


    truthfully.


    Dexter looked down and dried his hair with a towel. ¡°I had to deal with somethingplicated. It took


    more time than expected.¡±


    He avoided her gaze as he answered.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. Still, she did not show emotion as she replied, ¡°It must have been severe. since you


    had to deal with it on New Year¡¯s Eve.¡±


    Dexter did not notice anything strange with her words. Instead, he recalled something. ¡°When I


    returned to Russell Mansion this morning, Grandpa said you leftst night and never returned. Did


    something happen?¡±


    His inquiry sounded t and emotionless. Josie tried to detect concern from his tone but could not hear


    any.


    ¡°I had to amend an urgent design.¡±


    Dexter did not find an issue with her excuse. Perhaps he was too tired.


    ¡°It¡¯s not safe going out thatte. Try not to do that again.¡± Dexter frowned slightly and towel down.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Josie stepped forward and did not talk about him being out all night again.


    put


    the


    Dexter embraced her from behind and basked briefly in her warmth before saying, ¡°You called me twice


    yesterday. What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    He returned her call this morning, but no one answered. Then, he called Mason Garden and was told


    she had returned.


    Dexter seemed exhausted. Josie sensed a heaviness in his tone despite his attempt to conceal


    1.


    ¡°I wanted to ask when you would be home, but you didn¡¯t answer.¡± Jose squeezed out a smile and


    glossed over the matter.


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    ¡°I was busy¡­¡±


    Dexter tightened his embrace, but Josie felt he did it out of guilt.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    She recalled what Arnold said.


    He said she and Dexter did not trust each other.


    Dexter needed sleep andy in bed. At the same time, he wrapped his arms around her waist. and


    would not let go. ¡°Stay with me.¡±


    His clinginess moved herpassion. She took a deep breath and said tentatively, ¡°Dexter, we are


    husband and wife. I¡¯ve been honest with you. Will you also be honest with me?¡±


    She suddenly stopped feeling his warm breath on the back of her neck. It seemed he was surprised by


    her question, but he soon answered, ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t lie to me, right?¡±


    Dexter sensed something was wrong. He opened his bloodshot eyes and moved her to face him. ¡°Why


    do you suddenly ask these questions?¡±


    His behavior seemed so natural that Josie was relieved. She began to suspect the truthfulness of


    Arnold¡¯s words.


    She shook her head and replied, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I was thinking about New Year¡¯s resolution.¡±


    Dexter tightened his embrace.


    Josie fell asleep until the afternoon and woke up to find him missing.


    She ran barefoot out of the bedroom and nced downstairs. Coincidentally, Dexter stood at the door


    and was about to head out. He looked up upon hearing noises and frowned. ¡°Put on your shoes.¡±


    But Josie did not move from her spot. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to pick up your father. Have you forgotten?¡± Dexter replied teasingly.


    Josie nodded. She had indeed forgotten about the matter. ¡°Can you bring me dessert from Kodille on


    your way back? I¡¯m craving its strawberry cake.¡±


    Dexter smiled and grabbed his car keys. ¡°Sure. Go wear your shoes now.¡±


    Then, he walked out and started the car. Josie returned to her room and remembered Russell Mansion


    and Mason Garden had chauffeurs. Why is Dexter picking Pop up on his own?


    bet head and felt it was not right to be suspicious of him. However, she could not stop the seed of


    suspicion from sprouting in her heart


    The more she thought about it, the more he found the matter strange. Ultimately, she could not stand


    her doubt and rushed out of Mason Garden after Dexter¡¯s car left. Then, she hailed a taxi and said.


    ¡°Can you follow that Porschel

 Chapter 680

    Chapter 680


    Chapter 680 DNA Test


    The taxi driver nced at Josie strangely. ¡°Miss, are you ckmailing someone or catching a cheating


    partner?¡±


    This was a high-end area. The taxi driver had picked up many passengers from this ce and heard


    many strange requests.


    Josie did not have time to exin. ¡°Just follow that car.


    ¡°All right then.¡± The driver was highly experienced. He stepped on the elerator and steered the car


    to tail Dexter¡¯s Porsche. What was even more impressive was that he drove. the SUV as if it was a


    Te.


    Since Josie did not use her car, Dexter did not realize someone was tailing him.


    However, Josie¡¯s suspicion grew as they traveled. It became apparent that Dexter was not heading to


    Russell Mansion.


    After some time, his Porsche suddenly stopped and picked up someone by the road. Josie frowned


    and recognized that the person was Larry. He held a document envelope and leaned. toward Dexter to


    say something.


    Dexter drove away after taking the envelope.


    Josie was puzzled. She could not figure out what document it was that Dexter had to pick it up himself.


    As the taxi moved past Larry, Josie bent down to conceal herself. She realized she was still in her


    pajamas. She had only worn a jacket over it as she rushed out of the house.


    I do look like I¡¯m catching a cheating partner¡­.


    Strangely, Dexter did not meet with anyone else but traveled with the document to an institution. Josie


    looked at it from afar and saw it was an institution for DNA testing.


    What is he testing?


    She instructed the taxi to stop at a distance. Then, she saw Dexter leave the car and enter the


    institution, holding the document.


    Once he entered, she finally dared to get out of the taxi. ¡°Wait here for me.¡±


    However, the driver was reluctant. ¡°Miss, it¡­ will cost more.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay you double.¡±


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    ¡°Okay!¡±


    Josie sneaked into the institution, but the receptionist stopped her. ¡°Greetings. Do you have an


    appointment?¡±


    Josie looked up slightly and was stumped. ¡°An appointment?¡±


    The receptionist looked at her and replied politely, ¡°We¡¯re a private institution, and we can¡¯t let anyone


    in without a prior appointment.¡±


    That¡¯s strict. No wonder Dexter chose this ce.


    Josie had a sudden idea. ¡°How fast can I get the test results?¡±


    ¡°It will usually be ready in one or two hours.¡±


    Two hours¡­ I only have to wait and see if Dexteres out in two hours¡­


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m waiting for someone.¡±


    Josie found a corner and sat down, waiting for two hours. While waiting, she wondered if Dexter had


    come here to get DNA tests for Liana and the Olsen family.


    Dexter met with Liana after her return. He must have suspected something and thought to get a test to


    confirm it.


    Josie kept track of the time. When it was time for Dexter toe out, she left the institute in advance


    and hid behind the door to observe secretly.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, let¡¯s meet up somewhere else next time. I¡¯ll have to head back. Have a nice day.¡± A man


    in a whiteb coat shook Dexter¡¯s hand.


    Dexter nodded. He was holding a different document envelope from before.


    Josie stealthily returned to the taxi and watched Dexter through the window.


    He stood on the steps and read through the document. He seemed to have prepared himself for the


    result. His expression appeared conflicted. It seemed he could not ept what he read.


    Josie watched him take a deep breath and return to the car.


    The driver observed her expression and asked softly, ¡°Does your husband have an illegitimate child?¡±


    Josie almost had a breakdown. ¡°Mister, can you focus on driving and stop being a busybody.¡±


    Dexter left the institute and headed toward Russell Mansion. He was finally bringing Paul to Mason


    Garden.


    Josie realized he was driving uphill and could not trail him anymore. She knew how astute he was and


    how he could easily catch her.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Bring me back to Mason Garden.¡±

 Chapter 681

    Chapter 681


    Chapter 681 Spection and Test


    Dexter arrived half an hourter.


    Paul exited the car with the servants¡¯ help and said, ¡°Thank


    you, Dexter.¡±


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have sent you to Russell Mansion in the first ce. It was our mistake,¡± Dexter replied


    evenly.


    No matter how friendly Henry was, Paul could not be at ease staying in Russell Mansion because it


    was not his home.


    He smiled knowingly and patted Dexter¡¯s hand to indicate that he appreciated what Dexter did for him.


    Furthermore, he saw that Dexter was responsible and trustworthy and thought Josie had married the


    right man.


    Although Paul was initially wary of Dexter, he hade to trust him.


    Josie went out of her room. She was still in her pajamas but wore shoes this time. ¡°What took you so


    long?¡±


    Dexter handed the dessert to her and answered calmly, ¡°The strawberry cake was popr. I had to


    queue up for some time.¡±


    The dessert was packed in an exquisite box and tasted as delicious as usual. The cake melted in her


    mouth but did not taste as sweet as expected. She offered Dexter a bite and said, ¡°Perhaps there¡¯s


    something wrong with my taste buds, but this cake tastes bitter. You should give it a try.¡±


    Dexter frowned. He did not like desserts but opened his mouth as Josie asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s sweet.¡±


    Josie smiled bitterly. ¡°I guess something is wrong with my taste buds.¡±


    Seeing her refusing the cake after a bite, Paul scolded, ¡°Dexter queued for twenty minutes to get you


    this cake. How can you be so wasteful?¡±


    Before this, she would never trample on Dexter¡¯s effort to make her happy. However, she had be


    rebellious from disillusion.


    ¡°It¡¯s bitter. I¡¯m not eating it.¡±


    Yet, Dexter did not get angry but instructed a servant to take the cake away. ¡°I¡¯ll tell the shop


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    owner to add more sugar next time.¡±


    Josie did not say anything.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She found it hard to maintain her act before him. It did not matter how calm and natural she was before


    this. She could not help but express her frustration before him, leaving her torn. between wanting him


    to know her feelings and not wanting him to know.


    Even though she felt bitter, she did not want to confront him yet.


    She waited, hoping that he would tell her about the matter himself.


    Dexter did not join the Russell family¡¯s New Year celebration this year. Moreover, Josie had no


    rtives. Thus, their New Year was quieter than usual.


    Russell Group would only resume work on the fifth day of the New Year, so Josie asked. tentatively,


    ¡°Do you have any ns tomorrow?¡±


    Dexter was dealing with work in the study. He paused typing on the keyboard and pondered about his


    schedule. ¡°I have something in the morning. Do you need me to do something?¡±


    Josie prepared a pot of tea and poured a cup for him. ¡°What matter is it? Can¡¯t you cancel it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s work. I have to go.¡± Dexter frowned slightly.


    ¡°I pity Larry. He doesn¡¯t even get to spend time with his family during the New Year holiday. and has to


    work with you.¡±


    Dexter curved up the corner of his lips.


    Josie took a deep breath and leaned slightly against his arm, saying coquettishly, ¡°Are you sure you


    can¡¯t cancel it? I want to consult you about some problems in my studio.¡±


    Dexter had difficulty resisting when Josie spoke to him in a coquettish and pleading tone. He looked at


    her and felt his heart softened. Then, he held her hand and said, ¡°Jo, I¡¯m free in the afternoon.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile faded. He rarely refused her, especially when she told him she had a problem.


    ¡°What if I insist you go with me in the morning?¡±


    Josie was rarely this insistent, prompting Dexter to frown.


    Seeing his reaction, Josie suddenly found it pointless to pressure him. ¡°I was only joking. It¡¯s not


    urgent.¡±


    Initially, she nned to tell him about the problem with Carter Group if he agreed to cancel his matter to


    apany her. However, Dexter seemed to be relieved that she did not insist.

 Chapter 682

    Chapter 682


    Chapter 682 Reunion


    Josie did not sleep well all night.


    The following morning, she heard a car being started and opened her eyes immediately. Then, she


    quickly changed her clothes and put on a hat and sunsses before leaving Mason Garden to hail a


    taxi.


    She tailed Dexter¡¯s car as before. Thankfully, the taxi driver did not ask her any questions.


    While traveling, Josie turned on her phone to check the day¡¯s headlines. There was nothing special,


    only unimportant news rted to New Year.


    Moreover, as Arnold said, there was no news about Carter Group¡¯s construction incident.


    At the same time, the news also did not cover Liana¡¯s return to the Olsen family. That¡¯s strange. This


    should be significant news. Mark and udia should have been ted and wanted to spread the good


    news. Why didn¡¯t the news cover it at all?


    It was so quiet that Josie could not help but feel suspicious.


    Dexter went to Heaven on Earth, a ce Calvin owned. The ce was tranquil in the morning. There


    was hardly anyone around except the staff.


    Josie parked the car far away and took off her sunsses. Dexter did not go in but stood. waiting


    outside. Soon, a car appeared, bringing Henry from Russell Mansion.


    Henry walked unstably and needed support as he walked. Dexter took over helping Henry from the


    servants and guided him into Heaven on Earth.


    Josie¡¯s frown deepened. She could not understand what was going on. Henry was ill and weak. due to


    his age and rarely left Russell Mansion. Yet, he rushed to Heaven on Earth to meet Dexter.


    Why is he here?


    Dexter chose Heaven on Earth due to its secrecy.


    Who are they meeting?


    Josie did not want to continue investigating because such spection damages a married couple¡¯s


    rtionship. However, she could not stop now that things hade to this.


    One of the attendants recognized Josie. ¡°Mrs. Russell? Are you¡­¡±


    She smiled and shushed him. ¡°I¡¯m not here as Mrs. Russell today. Instead, I¡¯m here to meet a


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    client. Can you arrange a room for me?¡±


    The attendant nodded. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Josie feared meeting someone she knew as she waited. She lowered her hat over her face, terrified


    that Dexter would see her.


    She looked up without thinking and identally met the gaze of a woman walking downstairs. The


    woman¡¯s face looked ordinary, but she unted an alluring figure in a tight fitting red dress.


    ¡°Mallory?¡± Josie whispered.


    Mallory smiled and stepped forward. ¡°I did not expect to bump into you here.¡±


    The attendant greeted Mallory as if she was in charge of the ce.


    Josie smiled. ¡°Happy New Year, Mallory. It seems like you secured your position here.¡±


    Mallory took the request note from the attendant and instantly understood what Josie wanted. ¡°Please


    follow me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing special. I¡¯m only earning a living under a man¡¯s authority.¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Mallory led Josie along a corridor full of green nts.


    Josie nced around. She did not expect Heaven on Earth to have such a scenic area at the back.


    ¡°This area is only essible to VIP guests. We don¡¯t simply allow anyone in, no matter how much


    money they offer,¡± Mallory nced at Josie and exined. Josie saw beautiful greeneries no matter


    where she looked.


    ¡°Seems like I¡¯m a VIP guest.¡±


    Mallory opened a door, revealing a spacious, intricately decorated room. ¡°I believe you can achieve


    your goal using this room.¡±


    Although Mallory arranged everything discreetly, Josie could not resist pursing her lips. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,


    Mallory. I¡¯m not here to meet a client.¡±


    Mallory arched her eyebrows and chuckled, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have brought you here if you were only meeting


    clients.¡±


    Josie was confused.

 Chapter 683

    Chapter 683


    Chapter 683 Meeting Liana


    Suddenly, a voice sounded outside. It was Henry¡¯s voice. ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up.¡±


    Josie looked through the gauze-curtained window and saw two figures walking in a hurry. They walked


    past Josie¡¯s room and pushed open the door in the neighboring room. Josie instantly understood why


    Mallory had brought her here and was surprised. ¡°How did


    know¡­¡±


    you


    ¡°Dexter would not choose this ce to meet someone without a good reason, so I thought it must be


    important. Furthermore, when I met you, I could see that didn¡¯t want to be recognized.¡±


    you


    Mallory was astute and guessed the gist of things after connecting the dots.


    Josieughed at herself. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    But Mallory looked away. ¡°I brought you here only because you needed a secluded ce to meet a


    confidential client. I have no idea that Dexter is next door.¡±


    Josie understood and replied, ¡°Yes, you don¡¯t know anything.¡±


    Satisfied with her response, Mallory turned around to leave. However, when Mallory reached. the door,


    Josie could not resist asking, ¡°Why did you help me?¡±


    Mallory helped Josie tremendously in the few times they met. She considered before replying,


    ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because our situations are too simr.¡±


    Once the door closed, Josie waited for a moment before stepping out. She stopped stealthily outside


    Dexter¡¯s room and vaguely saw the people inside. There were around three people. Dexter and Henry


    sat on one side, facing a woman with a slender figure.


    The woman looked young.


    She raised her hand to pour a cup of tea. Her gestures were as graceful as a swan.


    Unfortunately, the room was soundproofed, so Josie could not hear what they discussed.


    Josie saw Henry holding the young woman¡¯s hand and roughly understood what was happening.


    This young woman was most probably Liana.


    From what Josie knew about the past, Henry cared about Liana as if she was his granddaughter. Thus,


    it was understandable that he would want to see her now that she returned.


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    1.2


    <


    Josie looked down and thought Dexter had arranged everything well. It seemed yesterday¡¯s DNA test


    confirmed that the woman was Liana. Otherwise, he would not have brought Henry to meet her.


    They conversed, but Josie could not hear anything. After a while, she could not stand watching their


    interactions anymore.


    Josie turned around to leave. However, in a moment of carelessness, she identally bumped into a


    flowerpot by the door and nearly fell. She let out a yelp as she lost bnce.


    Even though she immediately stopped herself from falling, the people inside still heard her. Dexter


    stood up. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Josie panicked and searched for a ce to hide. As she was about to rush into a neighboring room, a


    hand suddenly covered her mouth and dragged her away.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±


    Dexter opened the door and stepped out. He saw the leaves on the potted nt swaying but found


    nothing strange.


    There was no one around.


    He frowned and pushed the partially opened door at the room next door. He stepped in and saw a


    familiar figure buttoning up his shirt as he walked over.


    Arnold frowned helplessly. ¡°Dexter, why are you here?¡±


    Dexter looked at him suspiciously and noted his untidy clothes. It seemed he had just finished a secret


    dalliance with a woman. Dexter ignored him and proceeded forward, but Arnold extended his arm and


    stopped him.


    ¡°There¡¯s a woman inside. It would be unseemly for you to go in. Josie would be angry if she knew.


    Arnold sneered and looked at Dexter mockingly.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you came here to have a love affair, Dexter appeared emotionless.


    ¡°No one will find out if neither of us says anything.¡± Arnold replied calmly and did not seem worried.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°What was the noise just now?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hear anything¡± Then, Arnold appeared as if he just realized something It must have been my


    girl calling out in the throes of pleasure. I¡¯m sorry that it frightened you.¡±

 Chapter 684

    Chapter 684


    Chapter 684 Is He Skilled?


    Dexter had a disdainful expression and stopped wanting to go further into the room. ¡°Arnold, you


    should watch your behavior. Otherwise, you will be in trouble with the Olsen family.¡±


    Arnold was not intimidated by his words and leaned against the wall yfully. ¡°It¡¯s too early. to tell, isn¡¯t


    it?¡±


    Dexter ignored him and walked away.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°The woman has a pretty good figure. Do you want to see her for yourself?¡± Arnold called


    after him.


    However, Dexter did not even spare him a nce.


    Meanwhile, Josie huddled in the corner of the room and breathed a sigh of relief. There were still red


    marks on her face caused by Arnold¡¯s hand when he covered her mouth.


    Arnold returned to the room with a devilish smile. He bent down on one knee before her and asked,


    ¡°How was it? Did you find our affair exciting?¡±


    Josie was so enraged by his words that she had to hold back from pping him. She lowered. her


    voice and scolded, ¡°How dare you take advantage of me? Have you no shame?¡±


    ¡°Watch your words. You would have been discovered if not for me.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    She rubbed her mouth furiously and red at him. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°To negotiate business.¡±


    ¡°You can negotiate business in your Sky Pce. Why would you want toe to your rival¡¯s territory?


    Do you think I¡¯m stupid?¡±


    ¡°You know nothing. The most dangerous ce is the most secure.¡± Arnoldughed and patted Josie¡¯s


    head. ¡°So yes, you¡¯re stupid.¡±


    Josie could not be bothered to argue with him. She wanted to stand up, but her legs were numb,


    causing her to lose her bnce and fall back on the floor.


    Arnold smiled. It was a sincere smile. He looked like a carefree youth with his toothy grin.


    Josie blushed in embarrassment at his stare. She desperately wished the ground would swallow her


    up.


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    She tried to stand up again, but Arnold grabbed her wrist, forcing her back on the floor. Then, he


    leaned over her and moved closer until she could feel his breath against her skin. ¡°Were you spying on


    your husband?¡±


    Josie fumed and did not want to talk to him.


    ¡°He came to meet Liana today.¡±


    His words fanned the mes of her anger. Josieshed out furiously, ¡°I¡¯ve seen it with my eyes. You


    don¡¯t have to remind me.¡±


    Arnold tilted her chin. ¡°You were too rash.¡±


    Josie wrenched his hand, but he said, ¡°What do you think would happen if Dexter caught you?¡±


    She could not help but shudder as she thought about it. Dexter might¡­ No, he would murder me.


    ¡°Don¡¯t push it!¡±


    ¡°Dexter still doesn¡¯t know about the construction incident. It seems like you haven¡¯t told him.¡± Dexter


    smiled gleefully. ¡°You helped me to buy time. It will be enough for me to clear everything.¡±


    His words made it seem like they colluded. Josie panicked and argued, ¡°I didn¡¯t tell him not because I


    wanted to help you!¡±


    ¡°You inadvertently helped me.¡±


    Josie was not in the mood to argue with him, but Arnold kept approaching her until his lips. almost


    touched her ears. ¡°Is he skilled?¡±


    Josie was confused for a while before realizing he was talking about his skills in bed.


    ¡°He¡¯s better than you!¡± Josie flushed all over and tried to push Arnold away.


    ¡°You never tried. How do you know that I¡¯m not better than him?¡± Arnold smirked. menacingly and


    showed no sign of shame as he said those suggestive words.


    He had a natural charm, so Josie was not surprised that many women fell for him.


    ¡°Do you want to try?¡± He hugged her waist and whispered sweet nothings.


    ¡°Arnold, how can you stoop so low? Find someone else if you want to have an affair,¡± Josie said coldly,


    jolting Arnold from his desire.


    He widened his eyes. They were filled with conflicting emotions.


    Meanwhile, Josie grabbed the chance to break free and hurried away. Unfortunately. Dexter and Henry


    came out of the room. She had no choice but to press herself against the wall and did not dare to


    movie

 Chapter 685

    Chapter 685


    Chapter 685 Her Guesses Came True


    Josie peeked through the gap and saw Dexter and the woman supporting Henry as they left the room


    together.


    She could only see the woman¡¯s back profile. The woman wore a white dress and draped a beige


    shawl over her shoulders. Her silky hair was tied up with a ribbon. She looked poised and elegant.


    It was only fitting that an elegant woman like her return to the Olsen family.


    However, Josie could only feel jealousy stabbing at her heart. The woman looked like a perfect match


    for Dexter as she stood beside him. It was just like in her nightmare.


    They left the corridor and came to a car. Dexter and Liana stood opposite each other and conversed.


    They looked like they had known each other for a long time.


    Suddenly, Liana stood on the tip of her toes and adjusted his shirt cor.


    Josie could not see Dexter¡¯s expression. She had no idea whether he weed or hated it.


    However, he did not stop her. It seemed to indicate that he epted the


    gesture.


    Josie shut her eyes and felt suffocated. She could not stand seeing such interactions anymore.


    All her guesses hade true.


    Arnold walked to her unhurriedly with his hands in his pockets. ¡°I would have gone out now if I were


    you.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, you seem too cowardly to do this.¡±


    Josie opened her eyes wide. They were bloodshot in anger, but her tone remained calm. ¡°Trust is vital


    between married couples. He is not only my husband but my teammate in life. I can¡¯t embarrass him in


    public.¡±


    She still did not think Dexter had done anything wrong.


    Dexter could forget Liana, so her return fulfilled his wish. He brought Henry to see her because it was


    Henry¡¯s wish to see her again.


    As for the eldest daughter of the Olsen family, she was only missing. Thus, it was only normal for her to


    return to the Olsen family.


    This was a happy matter, so who was she to me anyone.


    1/3


    O


    <


    Arnold sneered upon hearing her. ¡°You trust him, but does he trust you? If I¡¯m not mistaken, he never


    offers to tell you anything about this matter.¡±


    Josie replied without hesitation. ¡°He¡¯s worried that I would overthink.¡±


    ¡°Will


    you not overthink now that you discovered the matter yourself?¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Josie fell silent.


    ¡°The Olsen family would not publicly announce Liana¡¯s return due to consideration for Summer¡¯s


    reputation. The matter would only be revealed among their close circle. Dexter did not tell you because


    he wanted to steer clear of any involvement so that it¡¯s easier for him to defend himself one day.¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°He¡¯s not you.¡±


    Arnold raised his eyebrows at her stubbornness. ¡°Don¡¯te crying to me when things go wrong.¡±


    Meanwhile, Arnold had sent off the other two and suddenly turned around. As he was getting close to


    Josie¡¯s hiding spot, Mallory suddenly appeared. ¡°Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter paused. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Mallory smiled and replied, ¡°Mr. Russell, it seems you¡¯re always displeased to see me.¡±


    Arnold was never interested in the women Calvin got involved with. However, he always felt suspicious


    that Calvin was willing to sacrifice so much for Mallory.


    ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. I express displeasure with everyone I meet.¡±


    Mallory¡¯s smile grew apparent. ¡°What about Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s an exception.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve helped her a lot, especially during the ident in the United Kingdom. You would have long lost


    your wife if I had not rushed her to the hospital.¡± Mallory moved closer and continued, ¡°Because of my


    good deeds towards you, shouldn¡¯t you at least be nicer to me?¡±


    Dexter rubbed his brow and softened his tone. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not here to ask for any favor.¡± Mallory stood up as a cat ran to her. She carried it in her arms and


    caressed it. ¡°I only wish to say that one should better appreciate something one nearly lost.¡±


    The cat looked at Dexter.


    After saying that, Mallory continued, ¡°My cat has been mischievoustely. It kept running around.


    Please don¡¯t be angry if it disturbed you.

 Chapter 686

    Chapter 686


    Chapter 686 The Mark on Her Neck


    Josie watched Mallory and Dexter converse for a while. Then, Dexter turned and left in another


    direction. He did note her way again.


    He must have been suspicious, but Mallory calmed his concern.


    After they left, Arnold stretched his stiff muscles and said, ¡°You have a pretty good friend.¡±


    Josie calmed her nerves and thought to leave, but she suddenly paused and asked, ¡°How does Liana


    look like?¡±


    Liana looked identical to Josie when they were kids, so Josie wondered if their adult selves. would also


    look simr.


    Arnold was briefly silent at her question before revealing a strange expression. Then, he looked


    elsewhere and answered vaguely, ¡°She is a beautiful woman.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking about this.¡± Josie stretched her hand toward him and continued, ¡°Do a photo of her?¡±


    you have


    She was sure Arnold would have a photo of her. After all, he was skilled in collecting thetest


    information.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see her face just now?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have her photo.¡± Arnold leaned down slightly. ¡°Although I¡¯ve met her, it¡¯s not right to take a


    photo of her in secret.¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°You seem like someone who would secretly snap photos of others.¡±


    Arnold grabbed her neck and lifted her as if she weighed nothing. ¡°Josie, you¡¯re quite daring.¡±


    Josie hit his hand. ¡°Can you describe her? What does she look like? Do we look simr?¡±


    She moved closer so that he could check her face.


    Arnold stared at her face as she leaned closer, but his answer did not sound convincing. ¡°I guess so.


    You look quite simr to her.¡±


    ¡°Can you borate on how we look simr?¡±


    Josie was honestly curious.


    111


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    1/3


    Arnold frowned and said, ¡°She¡¯s your rival for Dexter¡¯s affection, yet you don¡¯t seem to care.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve learned to ept it. After all, your wife is my biggest rival for Dexter¡¯s affection. Since I can


    tolerate her, why can¡¯t I tolerate Liana? Still, I think your wife¡¯s going to make her life. difficult,¡± Josie


    retorted. She was able to think about the matter with a clear mind.


    Although the Olsen family was relieved about Liana¡¯s return and cherished her, someone was bound to


    be jealous. Therefore, Josie did not believe that Summer would not target Liana. somehow.


    Arnold instantly understood her and sneered, ¡°I¡¯m impressed you understood.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to your wife.¡±


    Josie left the room and walked out alone.


    Her smile gradually faded as she walked. Honestly, she was not as open-minded as she wanted Arnold


    to believe. Liana might suffer a difficult life with the Olsen family, but it was nothing for Josie to be


    happy about.


    However, if Dexter treated her well, it would be Josie¡¯s loss.


    Josie had only said those words to retort Arnold. She was not that magnanimous in reality.


    After leaving Heaven on Earth, Josie hailed a taxi to return to Mason Garden. She realized. Dexter had


    arrived before her.


    He sat on a couch, reading a newspaper.


    Still, Josie was not nervous. She entered the house straight away. ¡°Why are you back so soon?¡±


    Dexter looked up from the newspaper. ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    She took off her coat and set it aside. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you I must deal with something at the studio?¡±


    ¡°I called just now. They said you weren¡¯t there.¡±


    Although he said those words calmly, there was an unmistakable sense of threat


    Josie resisted panicking. I went out to deal with some matter. That was why I wasn¡¯t in the studio. Why


    didn¡¯t you call me?¡±


    She sat down beside him and looked up coquettishly.


    Dexter showed no emotion as he said tly, ¡°Check your phone.¡±


    Josie was stunned. She took out her phone and saw numerous missed calls from him.


    ¡°I¡­ I silenced my phone.¡± She rubbed the back of her neck guiltily and continued, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Her gesture alerted Dexter to the red marks on her smooth and fair skin. He furrowed his brow. ¡°What


    happened to your neck?¡±


    For a few seconds, Josie quietly hurled at Arnold all the insults she could think of.

 Chapter 687 Dexter’s Fury

    Chapter 687 Dexter¡¯s Fury


    ¡°It must have been the mosquitoes.¡±


    Dexter nced at her neck for a few seconds before standing up. Josie panicked as she watched him


    walk away. She feared he would discover something.


    However, all he did was get a first aid box and search through it for an ointment.


    Josie leaned down slightly, allowing him to rub some ointment on her neck with his fingers. gently.


    ¡°Have you finished dealing with the matter at the studio?¡±


    There was nothing for her to do in the first ce, but she yed along and replied, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m thinking of spending the afternoon with you.¡± Dexter noticed strands of her hair were. split. It


    seemed someone had pulled on them. The knowledge ignited the anger within him.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Josie took great pride in her long hair and always used the best shampoo and treatment products.


    Dexter also felt she looked best with long hair. However, someone had pulled her hair, causing strands


    to break off.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right. I can deal with it by myself.¡± Josie did not notice anything strange about Dexter¡¯s


    demeanor.


    Then, Dexter pulled his hand away and gripped the bottle of ointment. ¡°It¡¯s winter. You should get


    enough rest and avoid going out as much as possible.¡±


    Dexter sounded cryptic, so Josie misunderstood and thought he was afraid she would find out about


    the matter with Liana.


    She grunted and replied, ¡°What about you? Are you done dealing with your matter?¡±


    Although their gazes met, neither could understand the other¡¯s emotions. ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±


    Dexter turned to face her, but Josie could not bear the secrecy and called out suddenly. ¡°Dexter.¡±


    He paused and waited for her to continue.


    However, Josie did not say anything. She wanted to ask him about something but did not. know how


    she should string the question.


    Dexter leaned toward her and looked into her eyes. However, his phone suddenly rang. He answered it


    immediately and listened to the caller exining something. Then, he asked, ¡°When did it happen?¡±


    He turned to Josie.


    Josie mouthed the words. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Dexter put the call on speaker mode, allowing Larry¡¯s voice to fill the room. ¡°Carter Group hid the


    matter and dealt with everything within a day. It was toote by the time we found. out about it.¡±


    Larry sounded furious. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Arnold to cover up such a good chance for us to expose him.¡±


    Dexter did not show emotion as he said, ¡°He used the New Year holiday to his advantage. It¡¯s no one¡¯s


    fault.¡±


    Larry hesitated before saying, ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ I found out who designed the blueprint for this


    construction. It was¡­ nk.¡±


    Josie widened her eyes slightly upon hearing this.


    nk was the name of the studio she co-owned with Laura.


    She knew there was no hiding her coboration with Carter Group once Dexter learned. about the


    construction incident.


    Dexter nced at her and replied to Larry, ¡°I understand.¡±


    He hung up and stood up from his seat. ¡°When did it begin?¡±


    Dexter was calm, but Josie knew it was the deceptive calmness before a storm.


    ¡°Around more than a month ago¡­¡± Josie wanted to say that Laura insisted on epting the project.


    However, Josie also gave her approval. Thus, it was pointless to argue about this.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t back out of it, and I was scared you would be angry.¡±


    Dexter stood before her while she sat on the couch and looked down at her. ¡°Was it to repay Arnold¡¯s


    favor?¡±


    ¡°I guess so¡­¡± Josie gripped the hem of her shirt with sweaty hands. ¡°I¡¯ve caused you


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s normal to want to repay someone¡¯s good favor. I can understand that.¡±

 Chapter 688 Will You Be Honest with Me?

    Chapter 688 Will You Be Honest with Me?


    Josie sensed his moodiness despite his empathetic words.


    However, Dexter did not reveal his anger, so Josie was unsure what emotions he hid. All she felt was


    his intimidating aura. After a moment, he said, ¡°I need you to go somewhere with me tonight.¡±


    Josie wanted to say something but did not know how to express her thoughts.


    She could not deny that she was at fault for secretly coborating with Arnold. Furthermore, she even


    nned to keep hiding the matter from Dexter.


    That night, Josie sat in the Porsche¡¯s backseat to keep some distance from Dexter. She apologized,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Dexter did not look at her but yed with a lighter. ¡°You went out on New Year¡¯s Eve. Was it because


    someone died on the construction site?¡±


    He guessed it.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about it?¡±


    Josie recalled her thoughts and feelings from that day and pursed her lips. ¡°I mentioned it, but you did


    not listen.¡±


    Dexter frowned slightly and considered. However, he could recall that she had ever told him.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t.¡±


    Josie had said she was honest with him and asked if he would do the same.


    However, Dexter had not told her the truth, so she did not bring up the matter concerning Arnold.


    They arrived at their destination. Josie was surprised to find themselves before Sky Pce. ¡°Why this


    ce?¡±


    Dexter replied emotionlessly, ¡°Get out of the car.¡±


    He dragged Josie out of the car and toward Sky Pce. She staggered as she struggled to keep up


    with him. The struggle also caused her skirt to re up. The attendant had a shocked. expression as


    Josie stumbled through the door.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, she is¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my wife.¡± Dexter released his grip and held her hand instead. Josie immediately adjusted her


    expression and squeezed out a smile.


    ¡°Oh, Mrs. Russell¡­ Nice to finally meet you.¡± The person was a middle-aged man. His clothes and


    demeanor indicated he was no ordinary person but likely someone with governmental authority.


    Dexter exined casually, ¡°He¡¯s Caesar Perkins, a director of the local government.¡±


    Josie nodded. ¡°Nice to meet you.¡±


    Larry reserved arge private lounge beforehand. It felt empty with only the three of them. Most of the


    seats were left vacant.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Caesar appeared uneasy. ¡°We discovered the matter toote and could not find anything to hold the


    incident against Carter Group.¡±


    Dexter ced some food on Josie¡¯s te. ¡°What about Mr. Lynch from the agency? How long do we


    have before he retires?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s less than half a month.¡±


    Larry entered and reported, ¡°Mr. Lynch and a few others are in the private lounge next door. Mr. Carter


    hosted the gathering.¡±


    Dexter sneered, ¡°They must be celebrating.¡±


    No one dared to speak.


    Caesar looked at Dexter and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, the higher-ups will not get involved since we don¡¯t have


    evidence. Unfortunately, we wasted months of effort to trap him.¡±


    Josie did not dare to move in her seat. She thought about what she had heard and realized Carter


    Group had fallen into Dexter¡¯s trap when he epted the construction project.


    She had no idea how many people Dexter had involved in this.


    ¡°Who says we don¡¯t?¡± Dexter smirked and called over a waiter. ¡°How old are you?¡±


    The waiter was a young man. He came to their table nervously. ¡°I¡¯m twenty-two¡­.¡±


    ¡°Will you be willing to do something for me?¡±


    The waiter had witnessed many things in this ce and knew everyone in this ce was influential


    people. He was unsure how to refuse Dexter and did not know what to say.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be scared of. I¡¯m only asking you to send a dish to them,¡± Dexter continued


    indifferently.


    Larry stepped forward and strapped a watch around the waiter¡¯s wrist. Then, he stuffed a card into his


    pocket and said, ¡°You will receive payment if you seed. Even if you fail, you will leave Sky Pce


    and work in Mandarin Oriental Hotel instead.¡±

 Chapter 689 Are You Angry on Arnold’s Behalf?

    Chapter 689 Are You Angry on Arnold¡¯s Behalf?


    It did not matter whether the waiter seeded. He would benefit regardless.


    The offer tempted the waiter, but he could not help but feel afraid.


    Dexter ordered solemnly. ¡°Go.¡±


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    He pressured the waiter and had Larry push him out of the room.


    The private lounge fell silent again. Dexter suddenly turned to Josie and asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you


    eating?¡±


    Josie looked down. ¡°Did you know since early on that someone would die in the construction?¡±


    She did not want to ask him such a question before an outsider. However, guilty conscience. and anger


    warred within Josie after she listened to them. She was unable to stop herself.


    Since she refused to eat, Dexter took her te and tasted the food. It was not up to his standard.


    ¡°Larry, get someone to take these away and serve something better.¡±


    Larry observed Dexter¡¯s expression and replied, ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Another waiter came in and quickly brought the food away. Josie stayed still and asked, ¡°You knew


    since the beginning that something would happen at the construction site. Is that why you¡¯re angry


    about my participation? Did you n it?¡±


    Josie questioned him without reservation.


    Arnold had set Dexter up before this, so Dexter had to find another way to go against him.


    Josie realized she should have expected this.


    Caesar nced at Dexter¡¯s calm expression and answered on his behalf, ¡°Mrs. Russell, you


    misunderstood. The higher-ups in Carter Group¡¯s construction project received bribes and. carried out


    shoddy construction. That was how we knew something would happen.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m asking him. Don¡¯t answer for him!¡± Josie raised her voice and red at Dexter.


    Fury roared in her heart as she recalled the tragic scene of Will¡¯s death.


    Dexter and the others did not care about human lives except as tools to achieve their goals.


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    1/3


    Caesar was rendered speechless. He did not expect the gentle and meek-looking woman tosh out


    so fiercely.


    ¡°I knew since the beginning.¡± Dexter gently tossed his fork onto the table, causing it to fall with a thud.


    ¡°Why? Are you indignant on behalf of your beloved Arnold?¡±


    How could he think I¡¯m angry because of Arnold?


    Josie¡¯s chest heaved with fury. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier?¡±


    ¡°You also didn¡¯t inform me that you epted the project.¡±


    No one in the private lounge dared to speak as the married couple fought openly. Furthermore, they


    were surprised that the petite and docile-looking Josie dared to argue. with Dexter head-on.


    Josie began to regret her decisions. She believed she could have avoided Will¡¯s death if she had


    informed Dexter earlier. ¡°Are you hiding anything else from me?¡±


    She voiced her suspicion again, hoping that he would answer truthfully. However, she forgot that he


    could not reveal the matter when others were in the room.


    The food arrived. Dexter filled a te with food for her and said, ¡°Try these and see if they are to your


    taste.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes.


    Larry entered the private lounge and left the door open. They could hear noises from outside. ¡°How


    dare you record me in secret? Do you want to die?¡±


    The noises came from the private lounge next door.


    The other waiters paused in their tasks. Everyone noticeably came to a halt..


    Meanwhile, the waiter was dragged to a corner. Someone searched all over the waiter¡¯s body. and


    found the watch. He opened it and found a tiny camera within.


    The discovery prompted everyone to panic. They attacked the waiter without mercy.


    After some time, Arnold finished smoking a cigarette and said nonchntly, ¡°That¡¯s enough. It would be


    troublesome if he were to die.¡±


    Blood leaked from the waiter¡¯s mouth as he pleaded, ¡°Mr¡­ Mr. Carter¡­¡­¡±


    Someone demanded, ¡°Who sent you?¡±


    ¡°Who else.¡± Arnold came to the waiter and tilted his chin with his feet. ¡°I paid your sry, yet you dare


    to work for someone else. Are you out of your mind?¡±


    ¡°They¡­ They forced me to do it. Mr. Carter, I¡¯m an innocent man!¡±


    However, Arnold ignored his plea and kicked him viciously to the side. ¡°Scram.¡±

 Chapter 690 Dexter Wanted Arnold Dead

    Chapter 690 Dexter Wanted Arnold Dead


    Arnold¡¯s men dragged the bloodied waiter away.


    Soon, all the other waiters were called away, and the private lounges¡¯ doors were shut. The waiters


    lined up. A middle-aged woman at the end of the line walked to a corner and before changing her


    direction.


    Larry waited for her at the door. They exchanged items within a few seconds. If someone were to check


    the surveince recording, it would appear that they never met.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, I got it.¡±


    Larry presented a tiny camera to Dexter. It contained recordings of the gathering in Arnold¡¯s. private


    lounge.


    The waiter that Arnold¡¯s men beat up only served as a distraction to prevent the real spy from being


    discovered.


    Dexter viewed the footage before handing it to Caesar to have a look. ¡°Do you think this is enough


    proof to report him?¡±


    Caesar had a conflicted expression. He seemed troubled. ¡°Mr. Russell, shouldn¡¯t we consult. the city


    council about this? The matter involves many influential people. If you act rashly¡­¡±


    Dexter remained calm and asked, ¡°Is Arnold¡¯s superior in this?¡±


    Caesar looked at the recording again before replying, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯s nothing to worry about. All that matters is Mr. Lynch is in there.¡± Dexter took the camera


    from Caesar and gave it to Larry before instructing him to proceed.


    The dinner came to an end, and Caesar left through the backdoor. As Dexter led Josie out of the ce,


    they coincidentally bumped into Arnold, sending off his guests. His voice was intimidatingly cold as he


    said, ¡°Dexter, to what do I owe the pleasure of having you in Sky Pce?¡±


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand tightly and replied, ¡°You have a nice ce. I shoulde here more.


    often.¡±


    Arnold smiled slightly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid my waiters can¡¯t bear your torment if you visit here too.


    often.¡±


    Dexter smiled in response.


    Although they knew the other¡¯s animosity, neither dared to fight openly, Josie was tired of


    1/2


    this. She had enough of being dragged between them as their pawn.


    She wanted to wrench her hand from Dexter.


    However, Dexter gave her a warning nce and tightened his grip. ¡°Jo, why haven¡¯t. greeted Mr.


    Carter?¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression turned sullen as she sensed Arnold¡¯s probing gaze. ¡°Mr. Carter¡­¡±


    you


    Arnold stared at her and smiled. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re an old friend of Sky Pce. Why didn¡¯t youe


    and say hi earlier?¡±


    His words seemed to hint something between them. Josie felt her hand was on the verge of being


    crushed by Dexter¡¯s grip.


    ¡°That¡¯s funny, Mr. Carter. How would I dare to bother you when you seem overwhelmed?¡±


    Josie felt rebellious and hinted at something in her words. Arnold was an intelligent man and instantly


    detected that something was wrong. ¡°Overwhelmed?¡± Arnold muttered before turning to Dexter.


    ¡°Dexter, what a remarkable wife you have.¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Dexter responded coldly, ¡°The same could be said about your wife.¡±


    They did not linger and left after that.


    Once they entered the car, Moses started the engine and raised the soundproof ss partition, as


    Larry indicated.


    Josie wrenched her hand free from Dexter in the backseat. Dexter looked at her face and said firmly,


    ¡°You are not to get involved in the matter between me and Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I want to?¡± Josie argued. ¡°It¡¯s always you two dragging me down and ming me


    afterward.¡±


    ¡°You dare to im you have nopassion for Arnold?¡± Dexter asked suddenly. His words. struck


    Josie to the core.


    She paused before replying, ¡°It¡¯s because he helped me¡­¡±


    Dexter observed her briefly before saying, ¡°You are not to care about Arnold¡¯s survival from now on. If


    you disobey me, I can¡¯t protect you if anything happens.¡±


    Josie sat still and muttered, ¡°Survival? Are you nning to kill him?¡±


    To Dexter, those words sounded like she cared about Arnold and desired to protect him.¡±

 Chapter 691 He Won’t Die with You Around

    Chapter 691 He Won¡¯t Die with You Around


    ¡°What would you do if I killed him? Dexter pulled out a tissue and slowly wiped his palm.


    Josie felt a shiver down her spine and did not doubt that Dexter would kill Arnold as he said. ¡°That¡¯s a


    crime.¡±


    Dexter sneered, ¡°He won¡¯t die with you around.¡±


    Josie resistedshing out at him. She closed her eyes and said, ¡°What will you do about the waiter


    from just now?¡±


    ¡°Larry has exined about him.¡±


    But Josie knew Arnold would not let the waiter off. She imagined he, like her, would be a tool in


    Dexter and Arnold¡¯s game.


    ¡°Josie!¡± Dexter shouted suddenly. ¡°If I don¡¯t get rid of Arnold, he will not hesitate to retaliate and kill


    me.¡±


    Josie observed him through the darkness.


    Everyone in Wavery knew Dexter and Arnold were rivals.


    Two dayster, Josie prepared tea for Paul in Mason Garden. He took a sip and shook his head.


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯re bad at making tea. You should stop making it.¡±


    Josie wanted tough at herself. ¡°It seents I¡¯m only good at drawing.¡±


    Paul was unsure about how he should respond. ¡°Erm, right. You should focus on what you can do.¡±


    Josie was left speechless. She grabbed her phone without thinking and saw a notification about a


    news. article. Wavery is struck with another construction ident, resulting in the dismissal of the


    director of the city¡¯s industrial andmercial department!


    Her hands shook.


    Dexter seeded despite the odds and ended the matter within two days. It seemed Arnold did not


    even have the chance to do anything.


    Josie opened the article and read through the detailed reporting on corruption matters. The article also


    said that the police stopped Mr. Lynch¡¯s family at the airport before they had a chance to escape.


    Dexter quickly took down all the perpetrators with his n.


    Josie searched all over the Web and could not find news about Will. She calmed down and pondered


    on it Then, she guessed this was the most extensive result Dexter¡¯s n could hope to achieve.


    However, he could not proceed further than that.


    If he did, he would not only face obstruction from Arnold Even the higher-ups would forbid him from


    going further


    Still, the damage to Carter Group¡¯s reputation was sulligent to assuage Dexter¡¯s fury


    But Jour knew Dexter could achieve more if she had ng gotten in his way


    ¡°Why are you angry? I don¡¯t remember you ever liked tea¡± Paul noticed her silence and tried to coax


    her


    Josie got out of her daze and responded. ¡°Who likes tea? Not me.¡°


    ¡°You¡¯ve been brewing tea for two days straight, switching between chamomile and Darjeeling tea, Paul


    spoke as if he was the victim of her tea obsession.


    Josie was stumped. She could not help but recall Liana¡¯s elegant gestures as she prepared tea in


    Heaven on Earth.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The memory left her frustrated. ¡°Am I unsophisticated?


    Noises of a car sounded from downstairs as she asked this question. Dexter had returned. Larry exited


    the car first and opened the door for Dexter. He saw Josie and waved at her with a smile.


    However, Josie turned away and pretended not to notice.


    Larry felt awkward. ¡°Mr. Russell, is Mrs. Russell still and


    Dexter did not look up. He exited the car by himself and headed into the house. ¡°Let her be¡±


    ¡°What if the Olsen family fails to conceal the matter? There are already rumors in the upper-ss


    circle. If Mrs. Russell were to hear¡­¡± Larry was worried.


    Dexter nned to go to the study but paused upon hearing Larry. He headed to the balcony instead.


    Meanwhile, Josie covered herself with a shawl and closed her eyes to enjoy the sunlight.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Dexter greeted Paul with a nod.


    Paul waved at him. ¡®Come here. Josie brewed tea. You should give it a try.¡±


    As expected, Josie did not get up,to pour tea for him. Dexter looked down and picked up the cup before


    her. The tea had cooled, but he could still taste its slight bitterness.


    ¡°Chamomile tea, Dexter said softly.

 Chapter 692 What’s the Point of Our Marriage

    Chapter 692 What¡¯s the Point of Our Marriage


    Josie opened her eyes immediately upon hearing Dexter. She could not stand hisment.


    However, Dexter nced at her and continued, ¡°You must improve your techniques¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words affirmed Paul¡¯s opinion. Thus, Paul tugged Josie¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Listen, even Dexter


    agrees you¡¯recking. I have been saying the same thing, but you wouldn¡¯t listen.¡±


    Josie turned to the other side and refused to speak.


    Dexter and Paul exchanged nces. Then, Paul stood up and announced, ¡°I¡¯m getting a ss of water


    to clear the aftertaste. You tormented my taste buds enough for the past two days.


    Dexter and Josie were the only ones left on the balcony. Seeing Josie would not speak, Dexter


    squinted and looked at the distant sea. ¡°Mr. Lynch has been arrested, and Arnold will likely be in


    trouble for the rest of the year. You don¡¯t have to waste time learning to make his favorite tea¡±


    His words were harsh. Josie could not help but open her eyes and argue, ¡°I didn¡¯t learn it for him.


    Likewise, this cup of tea doesn¡¯t belong to you.¡±


    Dexter extended his hand slowly but suddenly gripped her hard, pulling her into his embrace, ¡°How can


    you think of belonging to anyone else except me?¡±


    Josie knew she could not escape and did not bother to struggle. Instead, she rxed and said, ¡°I don¡¯t


    want to belong to anyone. After all, some things were never mine.¡±


    Dexter circled his arm around her waist and leaned down, inhaling her scent. After a while, he asked


    solemnly, ¡°How much do you know?¡±


    Josie was stunned. To her annoyance, she knew what he meant.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°When did you find out Liana returned to the Olsen family?¡±


    Dexter finally understood everything, but it took such a long time that Josie was no longer interested in


    discussing it with him. Instead, she said coldly, ¡°I found out about it at the same time as you did.¡±


    Meaning it was the night of New Year¡¯s Eve.


    Dexter suddenly realized and knew why she said those words after that night. It turned out she had


    found out about it so soon.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°I see. Arnold must have told you when you met him that day¡±


    Josic retreated slightly and faced him. ¡°You probably never n on telling me if he didn¡¯t¡±


    Dexter did not avoid her this time. I would have told you.¡±


    I waited a few days, but you never brought it up¡±


    He likely never nned to tell me if he had not discovered my connection with Arnold Joste sneered


    derisively and continued, ¡°Now that rumors are spreading in our circle, you decided to tell me because


    you didn¡¯t have a choice Dexter, what¡¯s the point of our marriage if we behave like this¡±


    It saddened her that their marriage was filled with so much distrust.


    Dexter tightened his embrace. Her detachment frightened him.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t sure if she was Liana in the first few days she returned. Once I confirmed it, I nned to tell


    you, but Grandpa found out first and requested to see her.¡±


    Everything he said so far matched what he did. He had arranged for Henry to meet Liana and


    discovered the incident at the construction site when he returned In short, a series of events dyed


    his opportunity to inform her.


    Josie was tired and did not want to argue with him. ¡°Honestly, there were many chances when you


    could have told me, but you didn¡¯t. Was it because she is too precious to you that you could not let her


    go? Were you worried that I, your wife, could never understand how important she was to you? Was


    that why you didn¡¯t dare to tell me?¡±


    Josie had no choice but to ept that she felt her position was under threat when she saw Liana.


    Dexter frowned slightly. ¡°Josie, I admit to dying, but it wasn¡¯t because I¡¯m worried you would


    misunderstand.¡±

 Chapter 693 You’re the One I Desire

    Chapter 693 You¡¯re the One I Desire


    How can that not be the reason?


    Josie frowned and could not figure out Dexter¡¯s thoughts.


    Meanwhile, Dexter loosened his hold on her waist as if to set her free.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you because she¡¯s someone you know.¡±


    Josie was astonished. ¡°I know her? Who?¡±


    She did not have many female friends in Wavery and could count the number of them with just one


    hand. If Liana was someone she knew, Josie believed she would have recognized her previously in


    Heaven on Earth.


    ¡°Heather.


    Dexter had a guarded expression as he said that name. However, his eyes flickered briefly and filled


    with conflicting emotions.


    Hearing that name, Josie suddenly lost bnce and fell backward, knocking the back of her head


    loudly against the chair.


    Dexter immediately pulled her back up and rubbed her head. ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    Josie resisted the pain and pondered on the revtion numerous times. How could it be Heather?


    Didn¡¯t Heather leave Wavery? Why did she return, and how could she be the missing Liana?


    Josie had a sudden spark in her mind and finally figured out everything. She recalled thinking that


    Heather resembled herself when they first met.


    It turned out Heather did not resemble her but Liana. She is the real Liana!


    Josie could not help but connect the past incidents. What they revealed gave her goosebumps. My


    goodness, Manyof the details matched¡­..


    Orphans¡­ Liana¡­ Heather¡­.


    Both names are even nts rted.


    The realization struck a blow to her mind. She had a severe headache after figuring out everything. ¡°Is


    it confirmed?¡±


    Dexter looked at her. Tve confirmed it. There¡¯s nothing wrong with the DNA result. Moreover, some of


    the details matched.¡±


    Josie suddenly realized why Dexter conducted a DNA test alone. She also understood why he couldn¡¯t


    tell her about the matter previously.


    No wonder Arnold also refused to tell me about her!


    ¡°How was she discovered?¡±


    No one realized Heather was Liana, even though she lived in Wavery for so long How was she


    suddenly discovered after leaving the city


    Dexter recalled his initial suspicion that now turned to regret. ¡°udia went to Rivodia to pray at


    Sousturham and met Heather by coincidence. She felt an instant connection with her.¡±


    In actuality, it was Larry who arranged for udia¡¯s trip to Rivodia.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    No one expected such a chance meeting.


    udia¡­


    Josie¡¯s headache worsened. Her heart hurt slightly, but she did not know why.


    ¡°I heard Heather didn¡¯t have a family. She must have been happy to be epted into the Olsen family¡±


    Dexter looked at her curiously. ¡°Are you unhappy?¡±


    Josie smiled bitterly. ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡± She leaned toward Dexter. ¡°What about you? Is it as you desired?¡±


    If Dexter was being honest, he kept thinking about Liana when she was missing. However, he did not


    feel much happier now that she was found. It did not matter that he recognized her as the real Liana


    through their conversations and interactions.


    Instead, he felt a little bewildered.


    Dexter lifted her long hair and rubbed the split strands, ¡°You¡¯re the one I desire.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    She was surprised that she could still fall for him even though they had been together for a long time.


    Josie was a little dazed. ¡°If¡­ What if Heather wants to snatch you from me?¡±


    Dexterughed. I¡¯m not amodity. How can anyone snatch me?¡±


    Josie wrapped her arms around his neck and said coquettishly. ¡°What if she wants you? Will you give


    her a chance?¡±


    ¡°Is that your impression of me? Do you think I¡¯m that fickle?¡± Dexter replied.


    Josie blushed and did not know how she should answer him.


    He wrapped his arms around her waist again and sighed. ¡°I¡¯m yours.¡±

 Chapter 694 She Was in the Photo

    Chapter 694 She Was in the Photo


    Those words were more than enough to make Josie happy.


    Meanwhile, news about Liana¡¯s return to the Olsen family soon spread throughout their social circle. It


    was rumored that when Heather was confirmed to be Liana, Mark was so happy that he recovered from


    his illness. Moreover, he did not sleep all night and dered he would organize a banquet and


    everyone in the city.


    Heather had to persuade him to stop, or he would have proceeded with the banquet.


    Surprisingly, Summer was the one who spread the news about Liana¡¯s return. She seemed even more


    excited than Mark and acted the role of a loving sister. She cried so profusely that no one could tell


    whether she was faking it..


    Laura had told Josie these.


    Laura appeared animated as she described what happened and could not hide her disdain. ¡°Honestly,


    you and Heather look incredibly alike. No wonder Old Mr. Russell initially mistook you for her,¡±


    Josie was pouring tea but paused upon hearing Laura. She smiled and replied. ¡°She is now the real


    Liana. With that in mind, it isn¡¯t she who looks like me. Instead, I¡¯m the one who resembles her.¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Laura was surprised by Josie¡¯s response and apologized immediately. I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean it that


    way¡±


    Josie did not mind. ¡°It¡¯s all right. What about you? How are you doing in the Olsen family


    Laura smiled bitterly. ¡°Nothing special, just being invisible. Zach has his hands full dealing with Summer


    and the intimidating Liana. He doesn¡¯t have time to hit me anymore.¡±


    Josie could not help but be concerned about Laura¡¯s situation. ¡°Are you sure you can¡¯t divorce him?¡±


    ¡°I can stand it.¡±


    After a while, Laura continued, ¡°The Olsen family¡¯s business dealings and the extent of Zach¡¯s


    embezzlement are enough to send him to prison.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°What are you nning to do?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any ns. I¡¯m just saying that everyone has their desperate moments. Wait, and you¡¯ll


    see.¡±


    Josie could not help but worry when Laura spoke cryptically


    ¡°The Olsen family ns to organize a small-scale banquet to wee Heather home. I saw Dexter¡¯s


    name in the invitation list. Will you be attending with him?¡±


    Josie recalled the scene of Summer¡¯s birthday celebration and felt likeughing ¡°Do you think they


    want me there?¡±


    Laura did not know what to say


    ¡°Im not going It¡¯s a celebration, after all. I don¡¯t want to cause a scene and spoil everyone¡¯s mood¡¯


    Joste was aware that she was not wee


    Hearing that, Laura stopped insisting Then, Josie left and went to look for Paul


    Paul was sitting in a rocking chair, reading e


    Heather¡¯s return to the Olsen family.


    He put on reading sses and read the article carefully, Josic,e take a look.¡±


    Josie went to Paul.


    ¡°The girl in the photo resembles you.¡± Paul pointed at the photo curiously.


    Josie¡¯s smile faded. ¡°We look simr, right.


    ¡°Yes, I thought it was you at first nce and wondered when you have be someone else¡¯s


    daughter. Paul joked.


    Josie pointed to a photo. ¡°This girl is the little girl in the photo the other day. This is how she looks like :


    a grownup.¡±


    ¡°The photo from the other day. Paul considered. ¡°That¡¯s not right. You¡¯re the girl in that photo.¡±


    Josie did not respond. Paul¡¯s mind was less alert, and his memories were unreliable since he was


    discharged from the hospital. Sometimes, it was not unusual for him to say things that did not make


    sense. Thus, Josie was not bothered by his words.


    ¡°I check what Julie made for lunch.¡±


    Jo. Jo! You¡¯re the girl in the photo!¡± Paul kept shouting after her, but Josie did not turn around.


    Two dayster, Arnold received an invitation from the Olsen family.


    Josie was beside him when someone brought the invitation to him. ¡°I hate how some people ignore


    personal boundaries. You¡¯re married. Why did they invite you?¡±


    Her tone carried a hint of jealousy, prompting Dexter to exin, ¡°My involvement with the Olsen family


    is not because of that.¡±

 Chapter 695 Why He Loved Her

    Chapter 695 Why He Loved Her


    He was coleus now that he had mentioned it. She wondered why Dexter had a close connection with


    The sen taumly Initially, she thought it was due to a marriage alliance.


    What is the reason then?¡±


    Dexter leaned back and shut his eyes briefly. Five years ago, one of the Olsen family¡¯s projects


    involved something in the gray area and nearly caused their downfall. Russell Group gave them a hand


    and bore the me for them?


    Josie considereil. Five years ago¡­ ¡°But there are many things connected to the gray area nowadays.


    Moreover, you and Arnold are involved in them.¡±


    They were careful to keep them under wraps. In actuality, they were involved in many sharneful and


    dirty


    businesses.


    ¡°It was different that time because it involves someone¡¯s life.¡±


    Josic frowned. ¡°How did you help them?¡±


    The matter involved the death of a prominent person, triggering an investigation from higher authorities.


    Mark pleaded with many people but could not cover up the case. During a critical moment, Dexter


    offered evidence to prove that the deceased broke thew. With that evidence, the investigation


    gradually diminished the me on the Olsen Group.


    Due to this, Mark owed Dexter a significant favor.


    Five years ago, Dexter had just started and took over Russell Group¡¯s business at a young age.


    Everyone waited for him to stumble and embarrass himself. However, before they knew it, Dexter allied


    with the prominent Olsen family.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Moreover, Mark admired ambitious and courageous young men. Dexter was one of them.


    Thus, within a few years, Mark helped develop Russell Group into Wavery¡¯s most significant tax


    contributor. From then on, the Russell and Olsen family depended on each other despite never entering


    a formal agreement.


    That was why the rtionship between Olsen and Russell Group was more than just that of an industry


    senior and a new generation.


    ¡°But you had just started and had neither the influence nor the backing of someone with authority. How


    did you obtain that evidence?¡± Josie sprawled on the bed and asked doubtfully after listening to


    Dexter¡¯s


    story.


    Dexter did not answer her question but said, ¡°That¡¯s all in the past.¡±


    Josie noticed his unwillingness to discuss the matter and made her guess. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you arranged


    the death in Olsen Group. That¡¯s why you could offer them assistance when they needed it.¡±


    Dexter chuckled calmly. ¡°Seems like I¡¯m a shady person in your mind.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Josie admitted frankly. ¡°People like you are devious and have many tricks up your


    sleeves.


    ¡°What about Arnold? What do you think of him?¡± Dexter asked suddenly. Josie was stunned briefly


    before. answering, ¡°Do you wish to hear what I think?¡±


    |||


    <


    1/2


    mmpact the following day and made hey w


    de for you to be back


    for bom and e


    What do you think of this back tie ck suits you?


    Dexter grabbed hey who ¡°You¡¯re not angry?


    Why should I be angry? Unless you don¡¯t care about me anymore!


    Although her consideration was charming, she was too calm, leaving him dissatisfied. He even felt thr


    wrge to argue with her


    I will only attend the banquet for a while and will be back soon


    Josie pulled her hand away and smiled. ¡°Sure, I don¡¯t mind even if you stay there forever


    She was teasing him.


    Dexter smiled Strangely, the teasing improved his mood. He left the house and went to his car

 Chapter 696 Error in DNA Test

    Chapter 696 Error in DNA Test


    I was spring, and the weather was good. Josie was bored of staying home and decided to head to the


    studio.


    Most of the employees had returned to work. They did not expect to be inspected by the higher-ups so


    soon after starting work, so the whole office had low morale,


    Angel wasining to Alice when Josie arrived. ¡°Alice, our job is only to draw designs. We know


    nothing about Carter Group¡¯s shoddy construction. How can they investigate us?¡±


    Jade was photocopying documents nearby and joined their conversation. ¡°That¡¯s right. We discovered


    it first and tried to stop it. Ms. Jo nearly got dragged into it. How would we know they carried out work at


    midnight?¡±


    As Josie heard the news about Carter Group, Josie could not help but think that Dexter would never let


    Arnold off casily.


    Rumors were rampant when the office reopened after the New Year holiday.


    ¡°Since we didn¡¯t do anything wrong, the investigator won¡¯t be able to find anything.¡± Aliceforted her


    colleagues and looked up to find Josie entering the office. She hurried ahead.


    She immediately pulled Josie to the side. ¡°I heard rumors that you colluded with Arnold and


    manipted the situation. That¡¯s not true, right?¡±


    Josie sighed and headed to her office. Coincidentally, Laura was already there. ¡°Tve worked with you


    for many years. Do you think I¡¯m that kind of person?¡±


    Alice pouted. ¡°I suppose not.¡±


    ¡°What about the matter between you and Arnold? Is it real?¡± Laura poured herself a cup of coffee and


    asked calmly before turning to Josie.


    Josie hit Laura with her handbag. ¡°How could you do such a thing? Are you trying to cause me


    trouble?¡±


    Lauraughed despite herself. She sat on the couch and crossed her legs. ¡°Anyway, I heard you and


    Arnold went to the hospital on New Year¡¯s Eve. Furthermore, based on my information, Dexter only


    learned about the incident a few dayster. That means you didn¡¯t tell him.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s amazing how rumors spread. All it took was a few days for the world to know about it.¡± Josie


    poured a cup of coffee for herself.


    She sipped before continuing. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me that Liana has been found?¡±


    Josie noticed a flicker of guilt in Laura¡¯s eyes.


    Laura met her gaze and stared for a few seconds before bursting intoughter. ¡°You¡¯ve met Arnold.


    Didn¡¯t he also hide it from you?¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Her mentioning of the matter angered Josie. ¡°He told me about it but didn¡¯t reveal that Heather was


    Lana


    Lauraughed even louder upon hearing her and pped her thigh. She nearly ran out of breath from


    Laughing. Tve been waiting to see your reaction. How do you feel? It¡¯s unexpected, right? Your


    expression is as I imagined¡±


    1/2


    foste picked upea euslim and hit Laura with it


    Dont me me udia went to Rivodia and imed she had found Liana upon her return. How couli)


    we be sine that it was real¡± Laura exined. ¡°Although Mark was happy about the discovery, he


    mmediately arranged a DNA Test on New Year¡¯s Eve. Everyone gathe


    sleep all night Oh that included your husband


    Joste¡¯s expression darkened house the


    ¡°The result turned out to be real, to everyone¡¯s astonishment. By then, it was morning, and Dexter had


    also left. I thought he would surely tell you.¡± Laura had a yful expression. ¡°But I guess I was wrong¡±


    Josie picked up another cushion and threw it at her.


    ¡°I had an excellent show that night. Thinking about Zach¡¯s expression still makes me want tough?¡±


    Zach could never win against Summer. Now, he had another rival, Liana, whom the family beloved. It


    would further threaten his already dismal position. Moreover, Mark would likely never give him any


    position of authority again.


    Josieughed with Laura, but her expression soon turned solemn. ¡°Could something have gone wrong


    with the DNA test?¡±


    She found the matter too coincidental to be urate, no matter how she thought. Of all the people in


    the world, she could not believe that Heather was Liana.

 Chapter 697 Liana’s Welcoming Banquet

    Chapter 697 Liana¡¯s Weing Banquet


    Laura waved her hand. ¡°Mark and uha suspected this but found other ways to confirm Heather¡¯s


    identity. They checked the birthmarks on her body and found them to be the same as Liana¡¯s. That was


    why they confirmed that Heather was Lana


    Joste had heard about Liana having birthmarks. However, it had been too long since she saw the


    missing person¡¯s notice that she forgot what birthmark it was


    ¡°Could the birthmarks be taked?¡±


    Laura shook her head. ¡°Even if someone were to fake the birthmarks, they would have to know their


    position and appearance. However, Mark and his wife are the only ones who know what they look like.


    It¡¯s nearly impossible for anyone to imitate them.¡±


    In other words, Heather had to be Liana.


    Josie understood upon hearing Laura¡¯s exnation.


    Meanwhile, Lauray on the couch and covered her face with her hands. She asked curiously, ¡°Why


    did you ask? Do you suspect something?¡±


    ¡°You said Heather passed the DNA test and had the right birthmarks. How would I dare to suspect


    anything? Forget my nonsense.¡± Josie finished her cup of coffee and frowned at the bitterness.


    Laura observed Josie and said, ¡°Don¡¯t me me for not warning you. Heather is now Liana, meaning


    she is someone precious to Dexter in his youth. Things are different now.¡±


    ¡°I heard a rivalpany tried to bring Dexter down when he was at the peak of his authority. The


    company put in a massive effort to search for Liana, which rivaled even the Olsen family. They wanted


    to find her and use her to threaten Dexter. This might sound harsh, but if Liana decides topete with


    you for Dexter, you might lose.¡±


    Laura¡¯s words were harsh, but Josie did not care. ¡°I¡¯ve been Dexter¡¯s wife for many years. If he


    chooses to abandon me for Liana, there¡¯s no point fighting it.¡±


    Laura stood up and approached Josie. ¡°I don¡¯t mean he will give up immediately. But it¡¯s hard not to


    compare you to Liana. Furthermore, what if she keeps taking up his affection? If this persists, who


    knows how long he can resist before giving in to his desire.¡±


    That meant Liana would always be a thorn in Josie¡¯s side and a threat to her marriage.


    Josie pondered briefly and shook her head. ¡°It won¡¯t happen.¡±


    Laura sighed and did not press the matter.


    ¡°How did Summer react to Liana?¡±


    Jusie believed Summer would see Liana as her rival for her family¡¯s affection and would not stand her.


    ¡°Surprisingly, Summer is exceptionally friendly to Liana. I wonder if Summer is acting out of fear for her


    position. Laura exined indifferently. ¡°Still, no one will expose her even if she¡¯s acting. The Olsen


    family needs to maintain a harmonious front.¡±


    Josie was briefly silent before asking. ¡°It¡¯s Liana¡¯s weing banquet today. Why aren¡¯t you


    attending?¡±


    III


    1/2


    You have your reason for not going Its the same for me


    Josie and Laura exchanged nces and smiled at their shared anguish


    After a while, Alice entered with documents. These are the documents that require your signature)


    Josie checked each document and signed them After some time, she paused and asked, ¡°Is Russell


    Group reorganizing its design department?¡±


    Since she left thepany, the department could never find someone suitable to lead it. Moreover,


    Josie had opened her studio. Thus, Dexter decided to break up the department. Furthermore, the


    company had also given up on real estate, switching to other investment areas.


    Yet, Russell Group was rebuilding the design department. How could Josie not know thepany was


    making such an arrangement?


    ¡°From what I¡¯ve heard, the department is recruiting and offering generous benefits.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡± Josie felt strange and put the document down.


    It was night by the time she finished dealing with work matters. She suddenly turned to Laura and


    asked, ¡°Regarding the matter with Arnold, how long do you think it will take him to recover?¡±


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Laura looked at Josie meaningfully, ¡°Are you kidding me? You¡¯re still worried about him?¡±

 Chapter 698 Stylish and Sophisticated

    Chapter 698 Stylish and Sophisticated


    It was eight o¡¯clock at night, Dexter attended the weing party for the Olsen family¡¯s first daughter


    which was held at the Bulgari Hotel¡¯s top floor


    There weren¡¯t many people mattendance, but those who were there held powerful positions in society


    Rumors were circting that Mark Olsen was considerate of his youngest daughter, so he didn¡¯t invite


    many people to the party. However, given the identities of the guests present, it seemed that he cared


    for Heather very much


    Amidst the crowd¡¯s chatter, Summer greeted the guests politely and gracefully, fulfilling her duties to


    uphold her family¡¯s reputation.


    The guests could tell that even though Heather was the main focus of the event, Summer still held


    power in the Olsen family.


    Mark and udia arrived at the top floor, dressed to the nines in their finest evening wear. Their


    impable attire was a clear indication of how much they cared about the event. The stylish and


    sophisticated pair were made for each other.


    Heather was wearing a white cocktail dress that clung to her figure. She had a calm and serene air as


    she followed Mark around to greet the guests.


    Every guest at the party offered their congrattions.


    ¡°Father, Dexter is here,¡± Summer said, looking at the entrance.


    After hearing what Summer said, Mark¡¯s eyes scanned the room until theynded on the tall.


    distinguished figure in the crowd. He watched as Dexter approached him and reached out his hand for


    a handshake. ¡°Mr. Olsen, I apologize for beingte.¡±


    Mark chuckled softly in response. ¡°You¡¯re notte.¡± Mark replied, putting his hand on Dexter¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Leanne, get Dexter a cocktail.¡±


    The cocktail was within reach, as the waiter was standing right beside them. However, upon seeing that


    Mark had given his instructions, Dexter remained still.


    Heather passed the cocktail to him, her face a deep shade of red. ¡°Dex¡±


    After her identity was exposed. Heather returned to calling Dexter ¡°Dex¡± the way she used to.


    Dexter nodded and took the drink from her with a rather indifferent air. Out of the blue, Summer asked.


    ¡°Dex, why didn¡¯t Josie join you today?¡±


    Their eyes met, and there was an unspoken tension between them. A yful grin appeared at the


    corner of his lips as he quipped, ¡°I don¡¯t see Arnold today either.¡±


    Summer noticed Mark shooting her a warning look, but she paid him no mind and continued. ¡°I don¡¯t


    need to control him. He knows not to overstep his bounds. Is that the case with Josie too?¡±


    Her question was so absurd that it made Dexter chuckle in disbelief. ¡°She doesn¡¯t like big asions


    like this, so I respected her decision.¡±


    Dexter was always protective of Josie and wouldn¡¯t let anyone speak ill of her. Mark¡¯s face turned a


    deep shade of crimson, and his jaw clenched. Heather¡¯s grip on her ss tightened as Dexter¡¯s words


    registered She lowered her head in difort


    111


    12


    Did car hear what he said, sis You need to be this capable to have a sessful manage. It i wonderful


    to leave a man who loves and protects you so much? Of course, one man isn¡¯t enough You¡¯ll


    fund two or duce mone There¡¯s so much you still have to learn¡± Summer¡¯s bold and


    makeup only added to the menacing tone of her words.


    udia¡¯s voice lowered to a stern tone, ¡°Sin


    Heather tried to defuse the situation by chiming in. ¡°Thanks, Summer¡±


    Summer¡¯s lips twisted into a vicious smirk. She was about to leave when Dexter suddenly spoke up. ¡°I


    heard that something went wrong with Arnold¡¯s construction project, hemented casually. ¡°He¡¯s in a


    bind trying to solve the problem, so he must not have much time to spend with you. You need to be


    more tolerant.¡±


    Summer felt a chill run down her spine. She hadn¡¯t expected him to get back at her so nonchntly.


    Mark immediately interjected, ¡°What problem?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a sneer. ¡°It¡¯s simr to what the Russell Group facedst time. His project has


    been sabotaged, and he has no one to back him up. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll take him a long time to recover.¡±


    Not knowing how to address his provocation, Summer forced a smile; her fingers pricking against her


    skin. Mark¡¯s jaw clenched, and his eyes narrowed. It was clear that Dexter was targeting his words at


    Summer, and she knew it.


    But Mark maintained hisposure and suggested, ¡°Since the problem has arisen, you should help


    Arnold resolve it. You don¡¯t need to concern yourself with our family matters.¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Summer furrowed her eyebrows. ¡°Father¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough,¡± Mark said with a calm and unfaltering voice.

 Chapter 699 She Might Mind

    Chapter699SheMight Mind


    It was clear that Dexter was behind the problem that was crippling the Carter Group. Mark, however,


    seemed to be turning a blind eye. This could be because he didn¡¯t care about Arnold, or perhaps he


    simply valued Dexter too much to lose him.


    ¡°I heard you took Leanne to see Old Mr. Russell a few days ago,¡± Markmented, swiftly changing


    the subject.


    Dexter was not at ease with Mark¡¯s use of the nickname ¡°Leanne¡± to address Heather, even though it


    was a nickname he had been familiar with in the past.


    It was natural to cling to the precious memories they had shared, but it was also an undeniable truth


    that his heart belonged to Josie..


    ¡°Yes, Grandpa was pleased to see her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go see Grandpa more often when I have the time. I missed him a lot, too,¡± Heather added, her voice


    filled with longing.


    Dexter nodded dismissively, then took a sip of his cocktail.


    Mark¡¯s words were bold and unwavering. ¡°That¡¯s kind of you, Dexter,¡± he said. ¡°Old Mr. Russell was


    very fond of Leanne and took care of her. She should be visiting him more often. Also, you were so


    close with Leanne ever since you two were kids. You should spend more time together.¡±


    udia cleared her throat to interrupt him. ¡°They¡¯re adults now,¡± she enunciated, her voice firm. ¡°They¡¯ll


    figure things out on their own. There¡¯s no need for you to meddle in their rtionship.¡±


    Dexter met Heather¡¯s eyes, his expression darkening. Mark¡¯s continued disregard for his marriage to


    Josie was starting to get to him. He felt like Mark was treating him like he wasn¡¯t even married, as if his


    rtionship with Josie didn¡¯t matter.


    He averted his eyes and lowered his head, the crease in his forehead deepened as he thought about


    Josie. Why didn¡¯t she want to follow him? What if she misunderstands him?


    Dexter greeted the guests at the party, then went into the lounge area. A server came up to him and


    asked if he needed anything.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let anyonee in,¡± he ordered.


    As soon as he gave his orders, the door opened a crack. The server¡¯s eyes widened when he saw who


    was standing there.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen¡­¡±


    It was Heather. She was holding a ss in her hand and staring at Dexter. ¡°Dex.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t fault the server for anything, as she hade in unannounced. He then gestured for the


    server to leave the room.


    They were the only two people in the lounge.


    Heather sat down next to him. ¡°My father crossed the line just now,¡± she said softly. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t


    take his words to heart. I won¡¯t interfere with your rtionship with Ms. Warren.¡±


    Dexter was taken aback by the way she referred to Josie. ¡°You¡¯ve never called her Ms. Warren before,¡±


    he remarked.


    Heather¡¯s eyes darted around like a cornered animal. She had always referred to Josie as Mrs.


    Russell, but now she called her ¡°Ms. Warren.¡± It was as if she was trying to erase any trace of their


    rtionship.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind..


    ¡°I do mind,¡± Dexter snorted. ¡°But she might not.¡±


    Heather¡¯s face fell; her eyes filled with despair, and her mouth turned into a frown. She looked like she


    was about to burst into tears.


    She looked very simr to Summer.


    However, Heather was not as assertive as Josie. If Josie were hurt by his words, she would confront


    him and give him a piece of her mind. She would not hesitate to stand up for herself, even if it meant


    causing him trouble.


    ¡°Dex, I can see that you really like her,¡± Heathermented, her eyes downcast. ¡°But I want to know if


    you were attracted to her at first because of me?¡±


    It was clear what she was trying to insinuate.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to pry,¡± she added. ¡°But I just wanted to know if I meant anything to you in the past.¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes were wide and innocent as she asked the question, her tone of voice free of malice.


    When he saw that she was simply curious, Dexter¡¯s voice softened, and he answered her question


    patiently.


    ¡°It¡¯s not because of you.¡± His rtionship with Josie started off as an agreement, but it had nothing to


    do with Liana.


    Heather¡¯s smile faltered at his response.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    She took a sip of her cocktail, her eyes clouding with sadness. ¡°It seems like we¡¯ve already gone our


    separate ways. We¡¯ve started new lives and are not the same people we were.¡±

 Chapter 700 You’re One of My People

    Chapter700You¡¯reOneofMyPeople


    Her words transported Dexter to the night the rain poured down endlessly.


    He closed his eyes, and the image of Liana reaching out her hands to him in the rain was as clear as


    day in his mind. Her presence had been like a beacon of hope in his life.


    But she stood before him with a new identity after so many years, and he failed to recognize her. He


    even sent her away and made her life miserable.


    ¡°Leanne,¡± he finally uttered.


    Heather¡¯s ears perked up.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you like to have a life offort and stability, staying with the Olsen family and marrying a


    kind and proper gentleman?¡± He looked into her dark, beady eyes and asked sincerely.


    Heather¡¯s eyes were like two pools of darkness, filled with sadness and regret. ¡°I must have really


    missed out on you,¡± she said, her voice barely more than a whisper.


    Even the slightest spark of hope can ignite a fire in the heart. Heather had never dared to dream of


    being with Dexter, knowing that they were from different worlds. But as they talked about the past, she


    couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill run down her spine.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°I remember the night before I started middle school, you promised to show me around the school, and


    you promised Grandpa that you would take care of me. But everything has changed in the ten years


    we¡¯ve been apart.¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes twinkled as she reminisced about the past, sharing with Dexter the memories he had


    long kept hidden. It was as if the Liana he knew had never gone away.


    Dexter¡¯s fingers grazed the cigarette box on the table. He took out a cigarette and held it between his


    thumb and forefinger, his knuckles white with tension.


    ¡°The time when we were as close as soulmates is now only a fragment of our history, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    The glowing embers of the cigarette were so close to his fingertips that he could feel the heat radiating


    from them. He tapped the cigarette against the ashtray, knocking the ashes off before they could burn


    him.


    ¡°Leanne, we¡¯re both adults now. I¡¯m really sorry for the things I did. I¡¯ll make it up to you from now on,¡±


    he said, his eyebrows twitching.


    ¡°This is not what I want, Dex. You know it all along.¡±


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Dexter had no way of avoiding the topic. ¡°What do you want?¡± he asked.


    Their eyes were locked on each other for a long time, the silence hanging heavy in the air. Heather


    didn¡¯t say a word in response.


    Dexter looked at the door. The contrast between the lively scene outside and the suffocating tension in


    the room was jarring. ¡°Find a good man,¡± he said finally, his voice thick with emotion. ¡°Don¡¯t find


    someone like me.¡±


    Heather forced a smile. ¡°What do you consider to be a good man?¡±


    ¡°A good man has a strong moralpass, a stable career, and the financial means to support a family.


    He will treat you with respect and love, and his family will wee you into their home with open


    arms,¡± Dexter rambled after thinking for a moment.


    ¡°I¡¯m not good enough for a man like that.¡±


    ¡°In what way are youcking? You¡¯re one of my people. You could be Natasha Rostova if you wanted.¡±


    ¡°Natasha? I don¡¯t have the looks or charisma to win the prince¡¯s heart,¡± Heather replied. ¡°I think I¡¯m


    more like Sonya, who is treated poorly by the man she likes.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes clouded over,and the lines on his forehead deepened.


    Dexter was convinced that Heather had sent the photo to Josie, so he brought her to Heaven on Earth


    to humiliate her. His n didn¡¯t work out as he had intended. Nheless, Heather was left feeling


    deeply hurt.


    The memory of that day was seared into her mind.


    ¡°I was just teasing you, Dex,¡± Heather chirped, her eyes glinting. The corners of her lips turned up in a


    smile, and she didn¡¯t seem bothered.


    The hurt that had been caused could not be easily undone.


    ¡°I swear I¡¯ll never treat you that way again,¡± Dexter said solemnly. The anchor of his sins would


    continue to exist within his heart.


    Dexter¡¯s voice was soft, but his tone had a steely determination.


    He would not cause Liana any further pain because of Josie. D


    ¡°You¡¯ll be in a tight spot if there¡¯s a misunderstanding about our rtionship,¡± Heather said,


    her eyes shing with concern. She knew howplicated things were, and she didn¡¯t want to see


    Dexter get hurt. ¡°Dex, I promise I won¡¯t cause you any more problems.¡±


    The cigarette was a charred stub, its contents long since consumed. It was still clutched in his hand,


    but he hadn¡¯t even taken a puff. After he left, Mark called him, his voice dripping with false concern.


    ¡°Dexter, I didn¡¯t get to talk to you much today. We¡¯ll catch up again next time.¡±


    He left the event early, and Mark was quick to notice. Dexter could see right through Mark¡¯s act.


    Although he was courteous and showed respect, his intentions were evidently questionable.

 Chapter 701 Clinging to the Photograph

    Chapter701Clinging to the Photograph


    Before leaving the studio, Josie countered Laura¡¯s assumption. ¡°Do I really care about him? I wouldn¡¯t


    have even cared if he were on the brink of death!¡±


    Recalling the times Arnold had yed games with her, her anger was palpable.


    Back at Mason Garden, Paul was seated at the dining table, engrossed in his meal. Spotting Josie¡¯s


    return, Julie hastened to take her coat. ¡°Madam, you¡¯re back so soon.¡±


    ¡°Yes, just had to handle some minor matters.¡± Josie approached the table, casting a nce at her


    father¡¯s meal. ¡°What¡¯s on the menu?¡±


    Her attention shifted as she noticed her father clutching a photograph frame tightly, his gaze distant.


    ¡°Dad? What¡¯s that you¡¯re holding onto? Dad?¡±


    Extending her hand, she gently shook her father¡¯s arm, snapping him out of his reverie. ¡°It¡¯s your


    photograph, Jo.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°Photograph? Which photograph?¡± She couldn¡¯t recall cing any framed


    photo of herself.


    Julie approached with a concerned expression. ¡°¡­Madam, since you left, he¡¯s been holding onto that


    photograph, insisting it¡¯s yours. I¡¯ve tried exining, but he wouldn¡¯t listen.¡±


    Puzzled, Josie furrowed her brows. Her father¡¯s memory had be less reliable since his recovery,


    and moments of confusion weren¡¯t umon. She hadn¡¯t paid much attention to it.


    ¡°What photograph?¡±


    Julie hesitated, leaned in, and whispered something into Josie¡¯s ear.


    The expression on Josie¡¯s face changed dramatically upon hearing it. She swiftly moved forward,


    intending to take the photo away. ¡°Dad, give me the photograph. It¡¯s not me. You¡¯re mistaken.¡±


    However, Paul clung to the photo, refusing to release it, his frustration mounting. ¡°What are you


    saying? This is my Jo, don¡¯t touch it!¡±


    Josie¡¯s anxiety intensified. ¡°It¡¯s not me! I¡¯m right here in front of you. Look at me, Dad!¡±


    But Paul persisted, thinking she was trying to snatch the photo from him. His eyes appeared


    unfocused, and confusion further clouded his gaze.


    ¡°Dad!¡± Josie applied more force, but her attempt led to a fall as she stumbled backward. The


    photo slipped from her father¡¯s grasp,nding on the floor with a snap as the frame shattered.


    The broken frame revealed the picture within.


    Josie¡¯s heart quivered. The photo depicted a smiling little girl. For some inexplicable reason, a wave of


    sorrow washed over her. She drew nearer, wanting to retrieve the picture, but a piece of ss cut her


    hand, and a droplet of blood fell.


    Julie¡¯s voice held concern as she eximed worriedly, ¡°Madam, be careful!¡±


    The sight of blood snapped Paul back to reality. He trembled, rushing to support Josie. ¡°Jo! What are


    you doing? Get up quickly!¡±


    Josie remained motionless.


    A deep male voice echoed from behind, ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡±


    Dexter had just entered the room and witnessed the chaotic scene. Josie was kneeling on the floor,


    and he hastened forward. ¡°Jo?¡±


    Drawing closer, he noticed what she was holding- and the fresh blood staining the photo. Josie quickly


    used her sleeve to wipe it away, a look of panic in her eyes as she glimpsed at him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Dexter, it


    was an ident.¡±


    It was a look that blended appeasement with fear. Josie rarely disyed such an expression, and in an


    instant, Dexter felt a pang in his chest. His fingers quivered as he gently halted her actions. ¡°Stop,


    you¡¯re hurting yourself.¡±


    Josie seemed momentarily puzzled, then quickly spoke, ¡°My father didn¡¯t mean it. He¡¯s just confused.


    And I, I didn¡¯t mean it either. Please don¡¯t misunderstand.¡±


    Dexter remembered when he had lost his temper merely because she had gazed at the photo a bit too


    long. She understood the photo¡¯s significance, and it clearly frightened her.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Within Dexter, a whirlwind of emotions raged. Gently, he took the photo from her hands. ¡°Jo, this


    doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    ¡°Come on, stand up, and let¡¯s fix your wound.¡± He consoled her with a soft voice.

 Chapter 702 Throw Them Away

    Chapter 702ThrowThemAway


    Dexter¡¯sforting gaze offered Josie some sce as she reluctantly rose to her feet, her fingers still


    tainted with blood.


    Dexter fetched a tissue and gently wiped away the blood, then took a cotton swab dipped in iodine from


    a nearby servant. His movements wereposed and practiced, yet a faint quiver in his hands


    betrayed the depth of his emotions. His eyes had a shadow of darkness, and his tone carried a hint of


    displeasure. ¡°Is the photo more important, or are your hands? What if your hands were injured to the


    point that you couldn¡¯t draw anymore?¡±


    A gentle smile graced Josie¡¯s lips, reflecting her happiness at the knowledge that Dexter cared about


    her, even if it was mainly for her drawing ability. She was anxious about damaging the photo, afraid of


    being wrongly implicated alongside her father, and concerned about unintentionally hurting his feelings.


    A tinge of bitterness danced on her tongue. When she looked up, her father stood beside her, his


    anxiety and guilt evident in his demeanor.


    It seemed he had regained his rity, yet he refrained from speaking.


    ¡°Dexter¡­ My father didn¡¯t mean to hurt anyone. Please, don¡¯t hold it against him,¡± she pleaded again.


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned somber as she spoke, a hint of dissatisfaction flickering in his eyes due to


    her doubt and fears.


    After he had attended to her wound and discarded the used cotton swab, he pronounced, ¡°Get rid of


    this photo and the others in the box, all of them.¡±


    Almost taken aback, Josie questioned, ¡°You mean¡­¡±


    ¡°These things are far less important than you.¡± He held her hand firmly. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t put yourself


    through pain over them. Do you understand?¡±Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Josie shook her head and thenprehended his point. ¡°You¡¯re right, you have found Leanne, these


    old photos of her aren¡¯t important anymore. I¡¯m sorry, I overreacted¡±


    Dexter¡¯s frown deepened, his grip on her hand unwavering. ¡°Even if Leanne hadn¡¯t returned today, I


    would have said the same.¡±


    His words came from his heart; this was all genuine.


    Josie¡¯s furrowed brows smoothed as she nced at her father once again.


    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry. No one mes you,¡± Dexter spoke first. ¡°Just stay here, alright?¡±


    Paul appeared torn. ¡°I¡¯m not sure why I was so disoriented earlier¡­¡±


    Josie swiftly reassured him, ¡°Dad, please rest. Everything is okay.¡±


    After a moment of hesitation, Paul,den with apologies, returned to his room, allowing them privacy.


    As he left, Josie withdrew her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s keep these photos. What if Leanne wants them in the


    future?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brows knit as he scrutinized her expression.


    ¡°I genuinely mean it. No need to look at me like that,¡± Josie reassured him.


    He affectionately pinched her cheek. ¡°My Mrs. Russell isn¡¯t usually this generous. Be honest, were you


    jealous?¡±


    Josie¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°You were away for quite a while today. What were you discussing with them?¡±


    Dexter was about to respond when she added, ¡°Could it be you were reminiscing about the past?¡±


    She was half right. Dexter was about to reply when she used her finger to halt him. ¡°You don¡¯t have to


    tell me, and I have no desire to hear it.¡±


    In a swift motion, he drew her onto hisp and leaned in for a kiss.


    The kiss was both fervent and lingering, and Josie had to lean back to endure it. She held onto his


    neck, sensing his urgency and a hint of perplexity within the kiss.


    ¡°What¡¯s bothering you?¡± Josie asked, concern tingeing her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m just returning the favor, silencing Mrs. Russell the way she almost silenced me.¡±


    A soft sound of disapproval escaped Josie¡¯s lips, showing her displeasure at his evasion of her inquiry.


    Sitting more upright, Josie looped her arms around his neck. Just as he was about to speak, they both


    spoke in unison, ¡°Russell¡¯s¡­¡±


    Their eyes locked.


    Dexter gestured for her to continue.

 Chapter 703 Keeping Leanne Close

    Chapter 703 Keeping Leanne Close


    ¡°Is Russell Group nning to restructure the Design Department?¡± Josie probed.


    Dexter¡¯s arm, which was snug around her waist, ckened slightly. ¡°You¡¯ve managed to piece it


    together.¡±


    ¡°To be more precise, Russell Group has its eyes on restructuring the entire construction division, which


    would inevitably involve the Design Department,¡± Dexter exined.


    A frown graced Josie¡¯s forehead. ¡°But hasn¡¯t the real estate market in Wavery already reached its


    saturation point? Didn¡¯t they decide to step back from that?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes held a veil of mystery. ¡°ns can change. The real estate market might have reached


    saturation, but profits won¡¯t dwindle. Carter Group took a hit, yet they still have seven construction


    sites. lined up, ready to begin work. Once those projects kick off, profits are guaranteed.¡±


    Russell Group aimed to carve out a slice of that profitable market.


    Josieprehended the situation. She sighed helplessly, momentarily lost for words.


    Dexter¡¯s fingers yed with her cascading hair. ¡°What¡¯s troubling you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m scared, Dexter.¡± Josie met his gaze with vulnerability. ¡°I saw someone die under the rubble for the


    first time. It was horrifying. I don¡¯t want to witness anything like that ever again.¡±


    Unspoken in her words was the plea to shield him from situations resembling the Arnold incident.


    However, she was also well aware that over the past years, Dexter had risen amidst a sea of unspoken


    murders and concealed deaths. Detaching him from suchplexities was near impossible.


    Dexter¡¯s silence hung in the air, his gaze serene as it rested upon her. His words mirrored that


    tranquility.


    ¡°I promise you, that won¡¯t happen again. Even if Arnold dares to confront me.¡±


    While his tone wasposed, his determination was evident, leaving Josie taken aback. ¡°Are you


    trying to reassure me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve promised no more lies between us,¡± Dexter replied with a tender look.


    Josie¡¯s chuckle carried a sincere trust in his words.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Feeling much lighter, she cast aside worries about Russell Group¡¯s reorganization affecting her studio¡¯s


    operations.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, what were you about to say earlier?¡±


    Her vibrant smile was captivating, reminiscent of a fresh and irresistible pear tree blossoming under the


    night sky.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze lingered on her. In that fleeting moment, his words remained caught in his throat.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing important. I¡¯ve forgotten, Dexter finally responded.


    Josie harbored no doubt, yfully winking at him. Then I¡¯ll go freshen up with a shower first.¡±


    As the graceful form of the woman vanished from view, Dexter found himself enveloped in silence. His


    lips still held a trace of a smile, but gradually, his expression turned solemn as she ascended the


    staircase. Once she was out of sight, the smile on his face slowly faded.


    Mark Olsen had called an hour earlier. During the call, he quickly cut to the chase. ¡°You¡¯re well aware


    of Leanne¡¯s situation; suddenly introducing her into mypany isn¡¯t ideal. Given your rtionship


    since childhood and her trust in you now, why not have her work closely with you?¡±


    He was merely a few words away from exposing her role as a nted spy.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, Russell Group isn¡¯t open to just anyone, Dexter stated with a hint of suppressed impatience


    in his voice.


    ¡°I know, but Leanne is an exception. You¡¯ve had a close rtionship since childhood and always looked


    out for her.¡±


    Dexter maintained his silence, not entirely pleased with Mark¡¯s insinuations.


    ¡°She was in tears earlier. Did you say something to her?¡± Mark inquired further.


    Dexter¡¯s grip on the phone tightened. ¡°Mr. Olsen, have her visit Russell Group tomorrow.¡±


    Mark Olsen¡¯s goal was attained with this decision, and he hung up, his satisfaction apparent.


    Larry, who had overheard the conversation, expressed his apprehensions. ¡°Is this wise? What if


    Madam. finds out¡­¡±


    Dexter closed his eyes briefly. He had debts about Leanne, and Mark Olsen had seized vulnerability.


    After contemting, he spoke seriously, ¡°Starting tomorrow, you¡¯ll be reassigned to the construction


    division.¡±


    Larry¡¯s expression mirrored his confusion.


    ¡°Are you suggesting¡­ that you want Miss Olsen to work alongside you?¡± Larry¡¯s voice wasced with


    uncertainty.


    ¡°The Olsen Family desires this, and I¡¯ll amodate them. Whether she¡¯s capable of standing her


    ground, time will tell.¡± Dexter¡¯s response was tinged with a mix of determination and caution.

 Chapter 704 Three Years and Nine Months

    Chapter 704 Three Years and Nine Months


    The weather was fine the next day. It finally came the day Yanis¡¯ case was brought to trial.


    Josie was helping Dexter with his tie under the morning sun¡¯s rays. ¡°Is it gonna be a tough case?¡±


    ¡°We just have to go through the necessary procedures. It¡¯ll be over soon.¡±


    ¡°How many years do you think he¡¯ll be sentenced to?¡±


    Dexter smirked. ¡°His status is extraordinary. Even if he¡¯s sentenced to ten years in prison, he¡¯ll only


    lose his freedom but still be treated well.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help wondering if Arnold¡¯s father would be like Yanis too.


    ¡°He¡­¡±


    ¡°My uncle hasn¡¯t suffered his whole life. It¡¯ll be a special experience to spend his remaining years in


    prison.¡± Dexter said with a cold smile, which could send a shiver down one¡¯s spine.


    Josie was reminded of Wyatt, who had not appeared for some time, and she wondered where he was.


    When Josie sent Dexter to his car, she saw only Moses. ¡°How strange. Mr. Peeple is not here today.¡±


    Dexter patted her shoulder and did not exin further.


    In the court, the procedures were carried out ordingly. Dexter sat in the public seating as the


    defendant¡¯s family member and closed his eyes to rest,


    As thewyers presented evidence to the court, their speech was loaded with legal jargon.


    About two hourster, the judge announced the verdict. Yanis was sentenced to three years and nine


    months in jail.


    Dexter slowly opened his eyes to see Yanis ring bitterly at him. Dressed in a jail uniform, the white-


    haired man had lost his usual,posed aura.


    Dexter curled his lips as he finally got revenge on Yanis.


    Provoked by the crooked smile, Yanis struggled frantically and pointed at Dexter with his handcuffed


    hand. ¡°You ungrateful brat! How dare you send your uncle to jail! Just wait, Dexter Russell. You¡¯ll this!¡±


    The prison guard immediately pinned him down. ¡°Silence!¡±


    Yanis spat fiercely in Dexter¡¯s direction, but thetter remained still, sitting calmly while watching Yanis


    lose his cool. Victors never need to say much.


    The court session was adjourned after Yanis was taken away.


    Moses walked up to Dexter and whispered in his ear. Dexter stood up immediately and walked out of


    the courtroom while buttoning his suit.


    Xanthe was waiting outside.


    Standing under the sun, she looked gloomy and hostile.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Dexter stood before her.


    ¡°Yanis is imprisoned. Is it my turn next?¡± Xanthe¡¯s question wasced with sarcasm.


    Dexter withdrew his gaze and answered coldly, ¡°You have a good sense of self-awareness.¡±


    ¡°Whether you admit it or not, the fact is I¡¯m your mother. If you dare toe after me, you¡¯ll bear the


    stigma of an ungrateful child. As the great president of the Russell Group, you wouldn¡¯t want your


    reputation to be affected, would you?¡± The wrinkles around Xanthe¡¯s eyes became more observable as


    she spoke. Her tone was cold and emotionless as she had her guard up against her own son.


    She didn¡¯t expect him to be so ruthless, even to the extent of sending his uncle to jail.


    Dexter raised his hand and pointed in the direction of the courtroom. ¡°I¡¯ve sent him in, so I might as well


    send you in.¡±


    Intimidated by Dexter¡¯s frigid aura, Xanthe subconsciously shivered. ¡°Do you really dare to?¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter became impatient. He looked into the distance and saw a slender figure standing beside his car.


    Suddenly, he blurted, ¡°Do you know Liana is back?¡±


    Startled, Xanthe frowned. ¡°So the rumors are true?


    ¡°After you abandoned me back then, that woman rescued me.¡±

 Chapter 705 Seems Like a Lover

    Chapter 705 Seems Like a Lover


    Xanthe had heard of the rtionship between Liana and Dexter, so she took special care of Summer,


    who was Liana¡¯s family, hoping to please Dexter by doing so. Little did she expect Liana to return at


    this time.


    Dexter wore a mocking smile. ¡°Would you like to meet her?¡±


    Xanthe instinctively avoided his gaze, guilt-stricken. ¡°I don¡¯t know her, so it¡¯s unnecessary to meet.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were filled with intense ridicule when he perceived Xanthe¡¯s guilty conscience. He didn¡¯t


    expect Xanthe to still have a trace of conscience and feel uneasy about abandoning him.


    One was the destroyer, while the other was the rescuer. So, Xanthe didn¡¯t dare to meet Liana.


    As Xanthe left, Dexter watched her walk away and felt strange. Mother and son should have a strong.


    connection, but he had never felt a tinge of motherly love from Xanthe despite their numerous


    interactions.


    Is she really my mother?


    Dexter had be emotionally numb.


    ¡°Dex!¡±


    Heather, who had been waiting at the car for some time, called out to Dexter as he walked down the


    stairs. outside the courthouse. She was dressed in a blouse and jeans, which gave her a youthful


    appearance.


    Dexter walked up to her. ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    ¡°Father said I should do a good job on the first day of work.¡± Heather smiled sweetly.


    Moses was about to open the car door but was stopped by Heather. ¡°Mr. Chakov, you can leave this to


    me from now onwards.¡±


    Moses was shocked by Heather¡¯s sudden action. He cast a nce at Dexter before saying. ¡°Please


    don¡¯t say that, Ms. Olsen. This is my job.¡±


    Dexter tapped Heather¡¯s head and got into the car. ¡°You¡¯re the eldest daughter of the famous Olsen


    family. How can I make you open the car door for me? Are you kidding me?¡±


    Heather was embarrassed. ¡°Please don¡¯t say that. This used to be my job, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    The response reminded Dexter of the old memories. ¡°You don¡¯t have to anymore.¡± He mumbled with


    downcast eyes.


    Upon arriving at thepany, Dexter personally brought Heather to the secretary¡¯s office. ¡°This is


    Heather Riley, She¡¯ll be joining the team from now on. Take good care of her.¡±


    The staff exchanged nces as they didn¡¯t expect Dexter to escort Heather to the office. Such special


    treatment was surprising.


    After Dexter left, Heather organized her stuff in her seat. Someone approached her carefully and


    asked, ¡°Ms. Riley, are you Mrs. Russell¡¯s friend or rtive?¡±


    Heather paused her action. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell never appears with other women, except Mrs. Russell. We thought he personally brought


    you here today because of Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Heather put on a sarcastic smirk and continued organizing her stuff. ¡°Should all women in his life only


    be rted to Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Her colleagues were baffled. Some perceived her response with respect, while others with disdain. It


    seems like she¡¯s Mr. Russell¡¯s lover¡­


    Dexter trusted the new assistant greatly. He hadn¡¯t assigned her official matters yet but entrusted her


    with his personal affairs.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Unlike Josie, Heather never mistook the tea Dexter liked. However, Dexter felt as if something was


    lacking when he drank it.


    ¡°You make good tea. Who taught you the skill?¡±


    Looking awkward, Heather answered honestly, ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Carter¡­¡±


    Arnold Carter.


    Dexter nodded. ¡°I guess he has never imagined the assistant he personally trained is actually the


    daughter of the Olsen family.¡±


    ¡°Dex, I never thought of myself as someone prestigious.¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°I¡¯m just kidding.¡±


    ¡°Does your wife know I¡¯m working here? I don¡¯t mean anything. I¡¯m just afraid she might


    misunderstand.¡±

 Chapter 706 Summer, Don’t Mess With Her

    Chapter 706 Summer, Don¡¯t Mess With Her


    Heather spoke cautiously and softly, afraid of saying the wrong thing.


    Dexter didn¡¯t give a direct answer. ¡°She doesn¡¯t care about these things.¡±


    Heather smiled. ¡°I know she has a big heart.¡±


    When it was about time to get off work, Summer came. She went directly to the top floor and entered


    Dexter¡¯s office. ¡°Hi, Dexter, I¡¯m here to pick up sis.¡±


    Dexter lifted his eyes and smiled. ¡°You¡¯re very concerned about your sistering all the way to pick


    her up despite your busy schedule.¡±


    Summer wore a pencil skirt, which exposed her long legs. Looking poised like the head of a family, she


    answered, ¡°I can¡¯t help it. We have spent a great deal of effort searching for my precious sister, so of


    course, I have to look after her. What if something happens again?¡±


    Just then, Heather walked in with a cup of coffee and was stunned to see Summer, ¡°Ms¡­ S-Sum, what


    brings you here?¡±


    Summer looked at Heather with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m here to pick you up from work.¡±


    ¡°I can go home on my own. You didn¡¯t have toe.¡± Heather quickly ced the coffee on Dexter¡¯s


    desk.


    ¡°It¡¯s on the way, so don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Summer leaned against Dexter¡¯s desk. ¡°Sis, I¡¯d like an


    Americano. Can you get me a cup, please?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Heather answered without hesitation.


    After Heather left, Dexter continued reading his documents andmented without lifting his head,


    ¡°She¡¯s your sister. You shouldn¡¯t cross the line.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Summer was confused.


    ¡°Although she hasn¡¯t been with the family for more than ten years, she¡¯s still the youngdy of the


    Olsen family. It¡¯s inappropriate to order her about like this.¡± After finishing reviewing the documents,


    Dexter kept them aside.


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡± Summer pretended toe to a sudden realization. ¡°It slipped my mind. But she has been


    doing this for the past ten years.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned solemn. ¡°Not anymore from now on.¡±


    As the atmosphere turned intense, Heather came in with an Americano. ¡°Here you go, Sum.¡±


    Summer and Heather were raised in different environments, so their temperaments were different.


    Heather appeared extremely cautious in front of Summer.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°I suddenly don¡¯t feel like drinking it. Sis, you can take it back.¡±


    Summer cast a provoking nce at Dexter.


    Just as Heather was about to bring the cup out, Dexter said, ¡°Just leave it. You may excuse yourself


    first.¡±


    Heather did as she was told. Tears welled up in her eyes.


    With that, only Dexter and Summer were left in the office. Dexter stood up and ced one hand on the


    table. Looking down at Summer, he lifted her chin with the other hand. Summer¡¯s body stiffened when


    she felt Dexter¡¯s breath, and her ears turned red.


    Dexter¡¯s overpowering aura stirred her desire.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Previously, I didn¡¯t care if you picked on her.¡± Dexter took up the cup of hot coffee and ced it near


    Summer¡¯s lips. Slowly, he poured the coffee into her mouth. ¡°But now, she¡¯s Liana. You shouldn¡¯t mess


    with her anymore.¡±


    His gaze was resolute.


    The coffee was so hot that Summer struggled to break away from Dexter while letting out a muffled


    sound.


    Dexter gripped her cheeks, forcing her to open her mouth and drink the whole cup of Americano.


    ¡°Now, I¡¯m here for her. Do you understand?¡±


    Steam rose from Summer¡¯s mouth, which was scalded. Her face reddened. The moment Dexter


    released her, she clutched her throat to vomit the coffee. However, it was toote she had lost her


    voice.


    ¡°D-Dex¡­¡± Her voice was hoarse and unpleasant.


    Dexter stared coldly at the miserable woman.


    After this lesson, she had to understand the situation, even if she didn¡¯t want to.

 Chapter 707 You Know How to Control a Man

    Chapter 707 You Know How to Control a Man


    Heather was shocked when she came in and saw Summer¡¯s reddened face and the coffee spat on the


    floor. ¡°Sum¡­¡±


    Summer shook her head, grabbed Heather¡¯s hand, and pulled her out.


    Dexter closed his eyes and made an inte call. ¡°Send someone to clean my office.¡±


    ¡°What happened?¡± Heather held Summer¡¯s hand and asked anxiously after entering the lift.


    Summer stared fixedly at her, trying to glean something from her expression. Then, she took out her


    phone and started typing. ¡®Dexter is very nice to you.


    Heather frowned. ¡°Y-Yeah. But that¡¯s only because of the past¡­¡±


    ¡°You know how to control a man.


    Heather lowered her head and didn¡¯t answer.


    Summer smirked and continued typing. I verified his feelings for you at the cost of my voice. Are you


    happy now? It must feel good to be protected.


    Heather shook her head immediately, afraid of annoying Summer.


    ¡°Shall we go home?¡±


    ¡®Go to the hospital!¡±


    Summer was exasperated.


    Temperatures bounced back as spring arrived. Paul just couldn¡¯t stay at home any longer and insisted


    on heading out for a walk.


    Josie was worried about his safety, so she instructed the servants to bring him for a stroll in the


    neighborhood.


    Paulined sulkily, ¡°I¡¯ve been walking around the neighborhood every day. I even know the


    number of trees here. It¡¯s so boring.¡±


    Josie was amused. She nced at the draft on herptop and said, ¡°I¡¯m free tomorrow. Let¡¯s go to the


    beach, shall we?¡±


    Paul pushed for more. ¡°Can¡¯t we go today?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now, and the seaside will be cold.¡±


    Paul sat down pitifully and mumbled, ¡°Okay. You have to bring me there tomorrow. Promise?¡±


    Josie continued working on theptop and readily agreed.


    At night, Dexter sent a message saying he needed to stay overnight in the office to finish some work.


    Then. he sent a video of his empty office.


    Josie didn¡¯t require him to report everything to her but was pleased when he did.


    She replied by text. ¡®Mr. Russell, do you feel lonely? If you¡¯d like your wife toe and apany


    you, please press I


    Dexter replied immediately. ¡®1111111¡å


    Josie chuckled and took a picture of herself working. I can only apany you virtually!


    She only finished her work and went to bed before the break of the day. At one in the afternoon, she


    was woken up by a call from Alice.


    ¡°Hey Jo, remember I told you the Russell Group was going to restructure its design department? I saw


    ire¡¯s job application.¡±


    Josie was jolted to her senses. ire was the one who framed her numerous times. Why is she still at


    Wavery?


    ¡°She¡¯s cklisted by thepany. I doubt her application will be sessful.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s hard to say. Thepany has aplex organizational structure. There might be a new batch


    of staff in the department by now. Besides, they n to set up an individual constructionpany. It¡¯s


    possible for ire to sneak in. I¡¯m just giving you a heads-up so you can be cautious.¡± Alice exined.


    Josie understood her intention. After hanging up the call, she couldn¡¯t fall asleep again. So, she went to


    wash up and made a call to Dexter.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    However, no one answered.


    She called again, and it was picked up this time, but a woman¡¯s voice emerged. ¡°Hello.¡±


    Josie was startled. ¡°Who is this?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m from the secretary¡¯s office. Mr. Russell is in a meeting.¡±


    Josie was relieved, thinking that made sense. ¡°Please ask him to call me back after the meeting.¡±


    ¡°¡­Sure.¡±


    Just then, Paul knocked on Josie¡¯s door. ¡°Hey Jo, it¡¯s past noon already. Quickly get up and take me to


    the beach.¡±

 Chapter 708 How Could I Make a Mistake

    Chapter 708 How Could I Make a Mistake


    ¡°Hey, Pop,¡± Josie leaned out the door, a quizzical expression on her face. ¡°why the sudden tantrum?


    Missing those spring outings, don¡¯t you?¡±


    The old man frowned, clearly upset. ¡°You said you would bring me!¡±


    She chuckled softly. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do this.¡±


    Before leaving Mason Garden with her father, Julie told Josie, ¡°Mrs. Russell, take it easy on the road


    and drive carefully, okay?¡±


    Josie nodded, her mind already concocting a n.


    Mason Garden was just a stone¡¯s throw away from the beach, offering aid-back and spacious


    atmosphere. without the usual crowds.


    Josie remembered how Paul always enjoyed ces buzzing with activity and people.


    After contemting, she decisively pressed the gas pedal and steered off course,


    The day was an absolute beauty; the weather couldn¡¯t be more perfect, and the sea stretched out in a


    mesmerizing shade of blue.


    Kids were building sandcastles under their parents¡¯ watch, and couples were unwinding by the shore. It


    was then that Josie realized it was the weekend.


    No wonder the ce was swarming with people!


    Meanwhile, Paul had discovered afortable spot. He sat down and let the wavesp at his feet. A


    serene smile etched on his countenance.


    ¡°Jo, remember when you were little, I used to take you to the beach all the time. Like those kids, you


    yed in the sand and collected seashells.¡±


    Josie settled down next to him. ¡°I recall bits and pieces. But as I grew older, the whole beach scene lost


    its appeal.¡±


    She only sought out the beach when stressed and needed a quiet spot to sort out her thoughts.


    Paul grinned, the sunlight making him squint. ¡°You hadn¡¯t even seen a beach before I brought you from


    Rivodia. It was a whole new experience for you.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t recollect anything about Rivodia, so she quipped, ¡°Pop, your memories are ying tricks


    on you again.¡±


    Paul brushed it off, faking a pout. ¡°Did Dexter give you a hard time about that thing the other day?¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie shook her head with a soft smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Paul took her hand, holding it in his own, giving it a gentle pat while a hint of sadness flickered in his


    eyes.


    ¡°I understand being Mrs. Russelles with its challenges. As long as you¡¯re genuinely happy in it, I¡¯ll


    be content.¡±


    Josie¡¯s tone turned earnest. ¡°It¡¯s definitely not a walk in the park, but for him. I¡¯m ready to face whatever


    comes.¡±


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    Paul seemed to recall something, hesitant. He motioned toward the children ying nearby. ¡°So,


    when¡¯s the n for you two to have a little one?¡±


    Oops, Pop¡¯s diving into family nning¡­.


    Josie was caught off guard by the question; her cheeks instantly flushed. ¡°Dad¡­¡±


    Paul chuckled, a twinkle in his eyes. ¡°It might be time to consider it. Weing a new member to the


    Russell n would surely bring joy to Henry and Dexter.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t entirely sold on the idea. She suddenly asked, ¡°What about you? Would you be happy


    about the prospect?¡±


    Paul hesitated, his smile wavered, ¡°To be honest, happiness might not be the first thing thates to


    mind. Having a child means navigating challenges. I¡¯m not so keen on that.¡±


    In this world, genuine parental carees from the heart, whether they are biological or not.


    Josie felt a warmth spread through her chest.


    The sea breeze danced, and Paul brought up, ¡°You know, that news about the Olsen family finding


    their daughter? I looked at those picturester at home; they looked so much like that person. Turns


    out, it wasn¡¯t you. Goodness, I was quite mixed up.¡±


    His thoughts had settled now, and Josie sighed, ¡°You¡¯re right. It was a misunderstanding.¡±


    Paul studied Josie¡¯s face seriously, and his aged eyes tinged with a hint of sorrow,


    ¡°But how on earth can I be confused about¡­


    The sea breeze picked up, drowning out his words. Josie asked him to repeat, but Paul waved his hand


    dismissively.


    After a bit, Josie guided her father back to the car. Before heading home, she still hadn¡¯t heard back


    from Dexter.


    Then, an idea struck her.


    ¡°Hey, Pop, I¡¯ll be right back in fifteen minutes. Can you wait in the car?¡±


    Paul nodded obediently, ¡°Oh, okay.¡±


    With a nagging worry at the back of her mind, Josie locked the car and paced a short distance away.


    Yet, a sudden change of heart urged her to double back and undo the lock.


    She needed a breather.


    And conveniently, a construction project by the Russell Group was nearby.

 Chapter 709 Pop Is Missing

    Chapter 709 Pop Is Missing


    Dexter had once shared the exact location with her; it was somewhere around this area. Following his


    pointers, she navigated the surroundings and reached the office building. Upon opening the door,


    Thomas¡¯ voice sounded from inside.


    He was assigning tasks to the employees, who were all engrossed in their work. Josie knocked on the


    door, and Thomas¡¯ gaze snapped up, his eyes locking onto her as he uttered, ¡°¡­Mrs. Russell? What


    brought you here?¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze swept over him, ¡°I could ask you the same thing. Why are you here?¡±


    Thomas¡¯ eyes shifted subtly, ¡°Mr. Russell asked me to oversee this project, so here I am.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Josie¡¯s tone held a touch of suspicion.


    Among the many people, only a few garnered Dexter¡¯s trust, and Thomas was his confidante. There


    were tons of responsibilities and tasks awaiting Thomas at Russell Group; it just seemed odd for


    Dexter to relocate Thomas here.


    Her dubious expression caused Thomas to wipe a bead of sweat from his forehead. He couldn¡¯t help


    but notice how, under Dexter¡¯s influence, Josie¡¯s casual yetmanding manner mirrored that of


    Dexter.


    ¡°Indeed, I¡¯ve been transferred here.


    Unconvinced, Josie cast a cursory look around the office.


    Thomas inquired, ¡°Mrs. Russell, what¡¯s the reason for your visit today?¡±


    With no particr reason for suspicion, Josie shifted the topic to ire, ¡°Look into that as well.¡±


    Thomas jotted her words, ¡°Absolutely, I¡¯ll make sure she doesn¡¯t slip past us.¡±


    With that said, Josie had no other tasks at hand, so she departed. Just before entering the elevator, a


    thought struck her. ¡°If you¡¯re not here, then who¡¯s with him?¡°


    Thomas was momentarily taken aback, then promptly replied, ¡°There are a few others in the


    secretary¡¯s office ready to assist.¡±


    Knowing Thomas didn¡¯t lie, Josie nodded in agreement and directed her steps straight to her car.


    As she opened the car door, she called, ¡°Pop¡­¡±


    Her voice trailed off, her realization hitting hard the car was vacant; Paul was nowhere in sight.


    A surge of unease washed over Josie.


    She rushed to the back seat and found a handkerchief belonging to Paul.


    It bore marks of being clenched tightly, evident in the wrinkles and creases etched onto the fabric.


    Her heart kicked into high gear immediately.


    She swiftly scanned the street, asking the passersby, ¡°Excuse me, have you seen an elderly man with


    a cane about this height?¡±


    |||


    However, none of them had seen him.


    Josie navigated through the bustling crowd, searching repeatedly. After searching for half an hour,


    there was still no sign of Paul anywhere.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    No, this couldn¡¯t be happening. Pop wouldn¡¯t just vanish like this!


    Panic surged, and she phoned Mason Garden, ¡°Has my father returned?¡±


    The servant¡¯s voice held a surprise, ¡°No, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Please keep an eye out for my father around Mason Garden!¡±


    Josie hung up abruptly and ran her fingers through her hair, her anxiety escting. The idea of going to


    the police station crossed her mind, but she dreaded the thought of Paul returning and not finding her


    car.


    Immediately, she dialed 110.


    After briefly exining the situation, Josie demanded directly, ¡°I need ess to the nearby surveince


    footage.¡±


    In less than ten minutes, a police officer arrived on the scene. He stood tall and lean, a middle-aged


    man named Scott Buncho. ¡°Good afternoon, I¡¯m Officer Buncho. How can I assist you?¡±


    Josie gripped his hand, her back damp with sweat, and said, ¡°My father¡¯s memory tends to falter due to


    a previous botched surgery. Most of the time, he¡¯s unable to think clearly or make logical choices. I¡¯m


    genuinely concerned¡­¡±


    Scott patted her shoulder, posed a few concise questions, and quickly guided her to nearby stores to


    present identification and request ess to the surveince footage.


    However, the store owners exined, ¡°The surveince system in this area is down.¡±


    Scott¡¯s expression shifted, and the store owner added quickly, I¡¯m not lying; it¡¯s not functioning. If you¡¯re


    skeptical, you¡¯re wee toe and see. We notified the maintenancepany a while ago, but no


    one hase to fix it.


    The surveince footage was pitch-ck, confirming its dysfunction.


    The coverage scope around this area was notably inadequate, with only one camera monitoring the


    entire street.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank with each passing moment.


    Something dreadful had happened¡­.

 Chapter 710 This Meeting Ends Here

    Chapter 710 This Meeting Ends Here


    ¡°This is now an official police record. Please take a moment to think carefully about where your father


    might have gone. In the meantime, we¡¯ll have some officers search the nearby area, Scott tried to


    reassure Josie.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    However, Josie couldn¡¯t shake off her unease. ¡°Officer Buncho, my father couldn¡¯t have just lost his


    way like that. He was in the car¡­¡±


    Scott¡¯s extensive investigative experience triggered a thought, ¡°Do you know of anyone who might hold


    a grudge against him?¡±


    The notion of enemies sent Josie¡¯s thoughts spiraling.


    She couldn¡¯t pinpoint them even if there were indeed any adversaries. Among the people she could


    recall, none of them seemed to have any direct animosity toward her father.


    Josie pursed her lips, ¡°Let me think again. I¡¯ll let you know if I recall anything.¡±


    Scott nodded.


    As he was getting ready to enter his car, a colleague patted him on the shoulder and said. ¡°Rx,


    Buncho. You¡¯re out here on duty for a reason. Why¡¯s still the long face? Don¡¯t worry. They wouldn¡¯t


    keep you waiting for an eternity.¡±


    Scott responded with a teasing nce before addressing Josie, ¡°Do you need a lift?¡±


    Josie¡¯s focus snapped back suddenly, ¡°¡­No, thank you.¡±


    Having said that, she briskly walked to her car, pressed the gas pedal, and drove away.


    As Josie sped away, the police officers exchanged hushed murmurs. One asked, ¡°Officer Buncho, are


    you handling this case, or¡­?¡±


    Scott¡¯s usually furrowed brow etched an even deeper line, ¡°I am. Her background is moreplex than


    it seems.


    ¡°Oh? Who is she?¡± Another officer queried.


    Scott disclosed, ¡°She¡¯s Dexter Russell¡¯s wife.¡±


    His colleagues immediately grasped why Scott had assumed personal responsibility for the case.


    Josie drove straight to Russell Group. Amid the rush hour traffic, her driving was reckless and daring,


    as if she had no fear of consequences.


    Navigating through the flow of people leaving work, she headed for the VIP elevator and swiped her


    card, gaining entry. She rode it to the top floor without hesitation.


    Even at this point, Dexter did not return back the call.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡±


    The employees in the secretary¡¯s office were taken aback by Josie¡¯s hurried arrival. Observing that


    Josie seemed to disregard them, they hastened to add, ¡°Mr. Russell¡¯s meeting is still ongoing. He¡¯s not


    in the office right now¡­¡±


    Josie clenched her fists, her expression taut as she shifted her course and headed directly to the


    conference room.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, you can¡¯t enter. Mr. Russell is in a board meeting now!¡±


    The room was filled with all departmental directors of thepany, all wielding significant influence.


    They were engrossed in discussing critical matters concerning thepany¡¯s future trajectory.


    Yet, undeterred, Josie stormed into the conference room, causing a stir among the attendees, who all


    raised their heads in unison.


    Seated at the head of the table, Dexter reviewed his files, his countenance bearing the cold


    seriousness. befitting a business discussion devoid of his usual warmth.


    He closed the folder.


    One of the assistants from the secretary¡¯s office promptly rified, ¡°Mrs. Russell insisted on entering,


    and I couldn¡¯t stop her¡­


    The directors exchanged knowing nces, their expressions conveying their collective sentiment. As


    Mrs. Russell, she was expected to observe protocols, and her abrupt intrusion wasn¡¯t taken lightly.


    Josie stood her ground at the entrance of the conference room. She turned slightly and raised her


    voice, This meeting concludes now. Mr. Russell and I have an urgent matter to discuss.¡±


    Her words carried resolve and fearlessness, though, upon closer scrutiny, faint beads of sweat were


    visible. on her forehead.


    The directors exchanged looks and eventually directed their gaze at Dexter.


    He closed his folder and spokeposedly. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear her? The meeting is over.¡±


    With his directive, everyone had no choice but to rise and exit the conference room, passing by Josie.


    ¡°Now that it¡¯s just us, what¡¯s the matter?¡± Dexter inquired gently. His tone was devoid of reproach;


    instead, a hint of warmth was restored.


    Josie¡¯s previously steady posture began to waver. With Dexter, she had no need to feign strength. She


    uttered helplessly, ¡°Pop is missing.¡±


    Her revtion jolted Dexter, his expression taken aback.

 Chapter 711 With Russell Family’s Power

    Chapter 711 With Russell Family¡¯s Power


    Josie recounted the events, her body trembling uncontrobly. She was terrified! Only in Dexter¡¯s


    presence could she let her guard down..


    Dexter patted her shoulder. ¡°The police are onto it already. We should have results soon.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°No, I have a hunch that something¡¯s wrong. Could it be Wyatt? We spected.


    before that he might target Pop.¡±


    Dexter held her hand and walked out of the conference room. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the ce where Pop used to


    live. Maybe he got confused and went back on his own.¡±


    This reminded Josie. Yes, Pop might have be confused again.


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it a little too coincidental that the surveince camera chose to malfunction at this very


    moment?¡±


    ¡°Jo, you¡¯re too riled up. Dexter gazed at her, trying to ease her tension.


    Dexter tightened his grip on her hand, not returning to his office but heading straight for the elevator.


    Leanne hurriedly exited the secretary¡¯s office and asked a colleague, ¡°Has Mr. Russell¡¯s meeting not


    ended yet? His coffee¡¯s gone cold.¡±


    The colleague¡¯s expression was evasive. ¡°Mr. Russell has already left.¡±


    ¡°What? He has left?¡± Leanne was surprised.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell stopped by, and they left together.¡±


    Dexter drove Josie to Paul¡¯s previous residence. However, the ce had been vacated since he moved


    out,¡± and it remained locked from the outside, barring entry without a key.


    One possibility had been nullified.


    Josie¡¯s initial optimism dwindled, reced by mounting anxiety. ¡°What should we do if he isn¡¯t here¡­¡±


    Dexter remained silent. He dialed Mason Garden.


    ¡°Oh my! Mr. Warren still hasn¡¯t returned. This is getting really concerning!¡± The voice on the other end


    was frantic.


    With dusk approaching, Josie¡¯s heart sank further. ¡°He isn¡¯t here, nor is he there. Where could he be?¡±


    If anything happens to Pop, what am I gonna do?


    ¡°Call Justin, Dexter suddenly suggested.


    Josie recalled Justin. Her hands shook as she dialed the number. The call connected, and Justin¡¯s


    voice came through; he asked, ¡°Sis? What¡¯s up?¡±


    The tone struck a chord with Josic, and she lifted her gaze to meet Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    Justin was puzzled. ¡°Where else could I be if not at work?¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Their father hadn¡¯t gone to find Justin.


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve gotta go.¡± Josie hung up immediately, not wanting him to know about their father¡¯s


    disappearance.


    Dexter understood her concern. He held her trembling body, murmuring. ¡°Hold on for me.¡±


    He stepped away and made a call. Josie missed his conversation. He returned shortly, holding her


    hand. once more. ¡°Let¡¯s wait for updates.¡±


    Josie¡¯s body felt chills all over, and she was puzzled. ¡°¡­ What¡¯s going on?¡±


    I¡¯ve initiated the Russellwork to search. We¡¯ll likely receive leads within a day.¡±


    Dexter hadn¡¯t relied on the Russell family¡¯s influence in a long time. They had amassed their wealth


    through the most basic means and had partially redeemed their reputation. Dexter had deliberately.


    avoided employing their resources.


    The Russellwork excelled in legal and covert operations, following strict protocols while executing


    the most covert tasks.


    Nheless, this evening, thework was unexpectedly being put into action. It was a given that


    something significant had unfolded.


    Each member was a rare talent, dispersed across various roles in the ordinary world, adept at masking


    their identities. Not all carried the Russell name, but they served the family with unwavering allegiance.


    Exaggerated rumors abounded, suggesting they held the power to uncover any concealed information.


    After Dexter¡¯s father¡¯s passing, he became the sole authority for rallying these dispersed individuals for


    various tasks. I

 Chapter 712 Confirming He’s Still Alive

    Chapter 712 Confirming He¡¯s Still Alive


    ¡°Just sit back and wait.¡± Dexter¡¯s words to Josie were concise, yet they held the weight of a mountain¡¯s


    assurance.


    Josie had beenpelled to return to Mason Garden to rest, but her mind was too agitated to find


    sce.


    ¡°We spent today at the shore together. He confided many things to me. He said as long as I¡¯m happy,


    he¡¯ll be at ease,¡± Josie sat by the bedside, hugging her knees, tears welling in her eyes.


    Dexter took a seat beside her.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Paul said those as a farewell¡­


    The thought pained her deeply. Just as she had begun to experience her father¡¯s love, he was taken


    away again¡­


    That night, Dexter¡¯s phone rang incessantly. He didn¡¯t return to the bedroom until dawn, bathed in the


    morning light, and he told Josie. ¡°We know for sure that he didn¡¯t wander off on his own.¡±


    Josie¡¯s delicate expression faltered. Her body felt weak, and Dexter reached out to steady her. ¡°And


    he¡¯s still alive.


    To say such a thing hinted at slim chances. ¡°I don¡¯t just want him to be alive for the moment. I want him


    to continue living now and beyond this.¡±


    Josie gripped his sleeves, her desperation evident. ¡°Who did this, Dex? Tell me, who did this!¡±


    His handnded on her head, guiding her into an embrace.


    Dexter held her tightly, offeringfort. ¡°We¡¯re still investigating, Jo. Once we find out, I won¡¯t let them


    get away with it!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t lose my dad, Dex¡­¡± Josie¡¯s voice trembled, resembling a wounded kitten, growing fainter with


    each word.


    All Dexter could do was embrace her, his presence a silent reassurance.


    ¡°Our leads are dubious, and the scope of involvement is wide. Let me handle this, Jo. I¡¯ve got it under


    control,¡± he spoke, each word deliberate. ¡°Trust me.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes in weariness.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    The internal conflicts within the Russell Group inevitably escted and ensnared the family members


    into the midst of a feud.


    Before departing, Dexter instructed the servant to watch Josie closely. ¡°Make sure she doesn¡¯t leave


    the house.¡±


    Half a day after he left, a call came from Scott. He shared nearly the same information Dexter had


    acquired.


    ¡°The key question now is whether you have any enemies, Ms. Warren. Beingpletely forting


    will help us move faster.¡±


    Josie rested her forehead in her hands, her head throbbing painfully.


    She remained quiet for a long while, her words caught in her throat,ing close to spilling out several


    times before halting, eventually fading into silence.


    ¡°Ms. Warren?¡±


    Dexter had urged her to trust him.


    ¡°No, Officer Buncho. We don¡¯t have enemies.¡±


    There was a note of disbelief in Scott¡¯s voice as he probed, ¡°None? Are you absolutely sure?¡±


    ¡°¡­Yes, I¡¯m sure.¡±


    There was a pause at the other end as well.


    ¡°From what I understand, Mr. Russell heads the Russell Group. Given the size of such a corporation,


    it¡¯s hard to believe there are no adversaries.


    Josie felt uneasy about lying, especially considering her father¡¯s disappearance. But Dexter seemed to


    have information that even the police didn¡¯t possess. He must have a way to track her father.


    Thus, she chose not to divulge theplexities within the Russell family, not wanting to burden Dexter


    further.


    ¡°None at all.¡±


    Failing to get the response he wanted, Scott had no choice but to end the call. However, before doing


    so, he left a reminder, ¡°Your father is hours away from hitting the full day mark as missing. If you recall.


    anything, please let me know at once.¡±


    The servants at Mason Garden prevented Josie from leaving the premises. So, she went into her


    father¡¯s. spotless and neat room. The box she had brought earlier was neatly ced on the bedside


    table.


    Opening it, Josie examined its contents again. Everything remained unchanged, and her attention was


    drawn once more to the medical certificate.

 Chapter 713 Suspecting Wyatt

    Chapter 713 Suspecting Wyatt


    A sudden notion dawned on her.


    Could it be that beyond some of the Russell family, Pop had attracted adversaries? But his life and


    connections were uplicated, and she couldn¡¯t seem toe up with anyone who might bear a


    grudge against him.


    Past disputes, maybe? But her knowledge of Pop¡¯s history was limited. Anxious thoughts churned


    within. Josie. After some contemtion, she retrieved the medical qualification certificate with the bold


    ¡®Rivodia City Hospital¡¯ written on the box.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell instructed us to keep you within Mason Garden¡­..¡±


    The servant stood by the doorway, attempting to obstruct her exit.


    ¡°I just spoke with him. He¡¯s fine with me going out.¡±


    The servant was skeptical. ¡°Well¡­ unless Mr. Russell confirms that, we can¡¯t permit you to leave¡­.¡±


    Given Josie¡¯s feeble condition, her ashen appearance suggested a gentle breeze could knock her over.


    Josie was darn sure Dexter wouldn¡¯t entertain her request even if she reached out to Dexter.


    Taking a deep breath, she had no choice but to retreat to her bedroom.


    There was an external staircase extended from the bedroom balcony. However, the door at the base


    was locked. She¡¯d need to climb over the wall if she wanted to escape this dungeon.


    Josie descended the stairs carefully and was just about to hoist herself over the wall when the servant


    noticed her. ¡°Mrs. Russell! Stop right there!¡±


    She was already halfway up the wall..Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon hearing the plea, she summoned a final burst of energy, managed to clear the wall¡¯s edge, and


    landed on the other side. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Dexter. Don¡¯t follow me!¡±


    With those words, she jumped down, tumbling onto the grass due to the momentum. Her ankles


    throbbed, and she limped away.


    Before pulling away from Mason Garden, Josie dialed Dexter¡¯s number. She was determined to take


    action and fill him inter. However, he only picked up right before the call disconnected. ¡°Hello.¡±


    It was the same woman¡¯s voice as before. Josie had identified her by now. She kept her query concise.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell is upied.¡±


    Then make sure you let him know I¡¯ve left Mason Garden. I¡¯m heading to find Wyatt.¡±


    Sounds of scribbling filled the other end. ¡°Noted.¡±


    With that confirmation, Josie hung up.


    Her first destination was Carter Residence. Andy, spotting her, was taken aback. ¡°Mrs. Russell?


    What¡¯s¡­ Aren¡¯t you worried about angering Mr. Russell?¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows knitted. I¡¯m looking for Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Carter isn¡¯t here.¡±


    ¡°Why the charade?¡± While waiting outside, she noticed the illuminated interior of Arnold¡¯s office.


    Josie surged ahead.


    ¡°Hey! Mrs. Russell! You can¡¯t just enter¡­¡± Andy attempted to stop her, employing minimal force and


    lacking any serious intention of preventing her.


    A subtle scent of red wine in the air.


    Arnold¡¯s features were striking, yet his smile held an intriguingly dangerous charm. ¡°Turning my office


    into a club, huh? Come as you wish. Barge in, and no knocking necessary, huh?¡±


    Josic stepped closer, her hands resting on the desk, her expression intense.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Wyatt?¡±


    Arnold casually picked up a pen and toyed with it. ¡°Why are you asking me? He¡¯s a Russell, not a


    Carter. How would I know?¡±


    ¡°Let me rephrase. Where¡¯s my father?¡±


    This time, he halted the pen¡¯s twirl and regarded her seriously. ¡°Your father¡¯s missing? You got


    suspicions that Wyatt¡¯s got his hands dirty?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s mind raced. ¡°You¡¯re not saying I had Wyatt on my leash and gave him instructions, are you?¡±


    ¡°Is that not the case?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± He retorted swiftly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you!¡±


    Arnold chuckled. ¡°So, anything unfortunate rted to you must be my doing, right? You asked, I


    answered, and then you doubted my response. What exactly are you expecting from me?¡±


    ¡°Wyatt is alone and stranded in Wavery. You¡¯re his only lifeline, his only hope. Besides, you¡¯ve met him.


    before. I can¡¯t believe there¡¯s no collusion between you two.¡±


    Josie¡¯s tone grew frostier with every word.


    ¡°Arnold, I¡¯ll ask one more time. Where is he?!¡±

 Chapter 714 Follow Him

    Chapter 714 Follow Him


    ¡°I can¡¯t say for sure,¡± Arnold threw his pen onto the desk, and it rolled off,nding close to Josie¡¯s feet.


    Her frustration peaked. Yanis was locked up in prison, and Wyatt was nowhere to be found, leaving


    Arnold with the capacity to orchestrate such a ploy.


    ¡°Let me ask differently then,¡± Josie stated, calmly sitting and facing him. ¡°did Wyatt tell you about his


    ns? I know he came to you; there¡¯s no need to deny it.¡±


    Josie was acute and intelligent.


    Arnold offered a faint smile. ¡°He only mentioned needing my support and wanting to align with me;


    nothing beyond that.¡±


    Josie was skeptical. Worry creased her brows.


    At that moment, Andy entered and murmured something to Arnold. Instantly, Josie was alert.


    Arnold nodded, then resumed their prior conversation with a tinge of intrigue, ¡°Let¡¯s say, hypothetically,


    it was Wyatt ¨C but what is his motive?¡±


    He¡¯s got beef with Dexter for getting Yanis locked up. He¡¯s looking for vengeance!¡±


    ¡°Yeah. But what¡¯s that got to do with you?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m Mrs. Russell, the wife of his enemy. He might target someone close to me to get to


    Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Why would he target your father when there¡¯s a horde of people around Dexter that he could use?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t have a ready answer. She could sense the intricacies at y, but the crucial detail she


    needed. was still out of her reach.


    She red at Arnold. ¡°Fine. If you don¡¯t want to tell me, I can find out myself.¡±


    Perhaps cluesy within the medical qualification certificate Pop had left behind.


    Josie decided to head to Rivodia to uncover the truth.


    With that, she stood and left but was intercepted before she left the room, ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    Josie pulled up but didn¡¯t turn around.


    Arnold walked up to her. A hand in his pocket, one casually on her shoulder. ¡°I might know where


    Wyatt¡¯s held up.¡±


    ¡°Where is he?¡± Josie looked up expectantly.


    ¡°Wanna know?¡± Arnold enticed her. ¡°Then follow me.¡±


    Withdrawing his hand, he strolled toward the elevator. Josie watched his graceful stride, knowing that it


    wouldn¡¯t lead to anything good if she followed him. But she had no option but to oblige.


    But in her heart, she couldn¡¯t help and cursed Arnold a thousand times over.


    Carter Group¡¯s elevators were uniquely installed against the outer shell, functioning as observation


    decks with sweeping vistas. Together, they rode the elevator down ¨C Arnold rxed while Josie was on


    edge.


    Josie hesitated when she learned that Arnold was headed to Sky Pce.


    Hearing her unwillingness, he challenged casually, ¡°Your call toe along or not.¡±


    Ultimately, she budged.


    Upon arriving at Sky Pce, Arnold guided her into his private suite on the top floor.


    Josie¡¯s eyesnded on a group of men deep in conversation and casually sipping their drinks. One


    among them caught sight of them and greeted, ¡°Well, well, Mr. Carter is here.¡±


    ¡°Apologies for my tardiness. Arnold shook hands all around before pouring himself a drink.


    ¡°Here¡¯s a gesture of goodwill.¡±


    He downed his ss in a single smooth motion.


    And then, the others noticed Josie standing behind Arnold. They exchanged surprised nces, and


    one eximed, ¡°Wait, isn¡¯t she Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Deep down, they were specting her rtionship with Arnold seemed more than meets the eye.


    Josie felt the urge to exin, but Arnold squeezed her hand. ¡°We¡¯re just here to hang out. Mrs. Russell


    is just a title; she¡¯s her own person, free to do as she pleases.¡±


    Knowing nces were exchanged among the men, and most seemed to understand, sizing up Josie


    with interest.


    Meanwhile, Josie fought the urge to p Arnold for his misleading words.


    Even though they had business to discuss, with Josie around, they were ufortable and unsure


    how to tread the information.


    Arnold refilled his ss and said, ¡°Go on, we¡¯re in the same boat.¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Still, everyone was hushed.


    Arnold turned his attention to one of them. ¡°Say your piece, Scar.¡±


    The dim lighting concealed the scar on the man¡¯s face, which Josie hadn¡¯t noticed until Arnold


    mentioned his name.

 Chapter 715 Important Person to Dexter

    Chapter 715 Important Person to Dexter


    ¡°Mr. Carter, things went south with that shipment at the dock. The Higher-ups want exnations, and


    we¡¯ve got a guy who can lend a hand, and he¡¯s not in it for cash.¡±


    If money wasn¡¯t on the table, then the stakes were high.


    Arnold nonchntly continued with whatever he was fiddling with.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Since there¡¯s an open door, why do you still ask me?¡±


    The fact that this person wasn¡¯t asking for money meant that the situation was dire, and he needed aid


    in earnest.


    ¡°He¡¯s got a ten-year-old daughter. The problem is, her mom¡¯s got ties to the Russells. We don¡¯t want


    any mess,¡± Scar exined, casting a careful look at Josie.


    She arched an eyebrow, signaling him to borate.


    ¡°What¡¯s the wife¡¯s link with the Russells?¡±


    ¡°No blood ties, just a loose connection. But the catch is that Dexter brought out the Russellworkst


    night. Worried it might blow up in our faces, Scar shared cautiously.


    So they were treading carefully.


    Arnold nced at Josie and said with a mocking tone, ¡°Oh? Why the sudden Russellwork rollout?¡±


    Scar carried on, ¡°Heard it¡¯s a manhunt.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like it¡¯s someone pretty darn important to him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s irritation grew with his constant reproach and sardonic gazes. She stood up abruptly, wanting


    fresh air, but a bodyguard blocked her path at the doorway.


    Without looking at Arnold, she quipped, ¡°Is this your idea of treating a guest?¡±


    Arnold twiddled a ring on his finger and said casually, ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious about where Wyatt¡¯s hiding?¡±


    ¡°What can I do if you refuse to tell? Beat it out of you?¡±


    Arnold grabbed a half-empty wine bottle and ced it before her, saying, ¡°This one¡¯s pretty mild. Down


    it, and I¡¯ll let you in on the secret.¡±


    Under the dim light, their eyes locked, each harboring their own motiyes despite the distance.


    ¡°I mean it.¡±


    Josie grabbed the bottle of wine and drank it down.


    However, drinking wasn¡¯t her game.


    The fiery liquor scorched her throat, leaving tears prickling her eyes.


    As she downed the drink, a cluster of intrigued eyes was fixed on her, their amused voices merging into


    a yful hubbub.

 Chapter 716 Bound

    Chapter 716 Bound


    By this point, Josie hade to her wit¡¯s end, and her voice turned hoarse with her frustration tipped


    over. ¡°But he¡¯s not the only criminal on the run in the entire Wavery!¡±


    Arnold paused in his attempt to dab her tears away, taken aback by her sudden outburst, ¡°Wow. Easy


    now. You sound pretty worked up.¡±


    As Pop¡¯s disappearance neared twenty-four hours, Josie was on edge, visibly worn out.


    Arnold yfully pinched her cheek, ¡°When was yourst shut-eye?¡±


    ¡°Why do you care? I¡¯m done here.¡±


    Josie shoved him aside and unsteadily got to her feet, ready to leave.


    Arnold¡¯s grip gently pulled her back into ce.


    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going being in this state? nning to walk right into the enemy¡¯s clutches?


    That¡¯s a one-way ticket to disaster. They¡¯ve got your Pop, and their motive¡¯s likely moreplex than


    just wanting cash. They might be using him as leverage against you or Dexter.¡±


    If it was about ckmail, the perpetrators would reveal their hands sooner orter.


    In many ways, his words began to steady Josie, though worry still furrowed her brow. ¡°What if they hurt.


    Pop?¡±


    Pop had just undergone surgery, so he wasn¡¯t fit for additional stress.


    Arnold forced her head against his shoulder, ¡°Driving yourself crazy won¡¯t help. Get some rest first, and


    then we¡¯ll talk about it.¡±


    The wine packed more punch than Josie expected, and she was knocked out cold in no time.


    Arnold held his breath and refrained from moving, Josie napping on his shoulder, seeming more


    precious than any rare gem.


    He turned his head to sneak a look at her serene sleeping face, an unfamiliar helplessness washing


    over him.


    Swiftly taking a snapshot with his phone, he looked at the picture with a satisfied smile.


    Josie¡¯s nap wasn¡¯t long, maybe a couple of hours. As she sat up, wincing from the all-over soreness,


    she nced up at Arnold and shuffled back a bit, eximing. ¡°What were you doing?!¡±


    ¡°ying the knight in shining armor, and all I get is suspicion,¡± Arnold quipped, his tone rxed as he


    teased Josie, all while kneading his shoulder.


    Just then, the private room¡¯s door was swung open. ¡°We¡¯ve got a situation! Scar and the others have


    been cornered and taken away!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s yful grin disappeared. ¡°By whom?¡±


    The waiter nced at Josie and then at Arnold, ¡­ Dexter¡­ Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Josie was equally stunned.


    She was the first to bolt from the room, but thanks to his long legs, Arnold surged ahead and grasped


    her arm, urging, ¡°You need toy low. Sneak out through the back exit. Go!¡±


    Josie hesitated momentarily. Her concern was etched on her face. ¡°What if he¡¯s here for me?¡±


    The irony struck ¨C how had this scenario be reminiscent of an operation to catch a cheating


    spouse?


    Arnold¡¯s expression grew serious, his voice determined. ¡°If he were after you, he wouldn¡¯t have taken


    Scar.¡±


    Josie¡¯s response was even quicker. Dexter must be tracing the clues to Wyatt, which led them here!


    Arnold descended the staircase like a whirlwind, and Josie struggled to keep up, haphazardly clutching


    the handrail for support.


    Scar was held captive in the high-rise lobby, shocking those entering and exiting.


    Amidst a contingent of bodyguards stood a man exuding an unsettling aura-a tangible threat hanging in


    the air.


    Bound to a pir, Scar spat curses and profanity, his anger palpable. ¡°Dexter Russell, if I catch even at


    glimmer of opportunity, I¡¯ll wipe out your whole d¡¯mn family!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s stance wasmanding, with his arms sped behind his back. He subtly turned his head as


    Arnold entered the crowd, and his smile icy..


    ¡°What¡¯s the deal, Dex?¡± Arnold approached, a chilling grin tugging at his lips.


    ¡°Looks like your crew needs a better lesson in manners, Arnold. I shall do you this favor. Dexter


    retorted, stepping aside.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    His gaze shifted from Arnold to the woman behind him. Recognition flickered, his expression darkening


    -an imminent storm brewing-


    Josie held his gaze, unflinching, looking confused and concerned.


    But in the next heartbeat, she noticed there was someone else, a woman, next to Dexter.

 Chapter 717 Life and Death

    Chapter 717 Life and Death


    It was Leanne!


    Why was she given permission to be here, standing with Dexter in such a sensitive situation??


    In her astonishment, Josie endured Dexter¡¯s scrutiny.


    ¡°I believe I handled it well, wouldn¡¯t you say, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Arnold chuckled, his query directed beside him.


    Josie shot him a furious look, her expression shifting to one of seriousness and embarrassment.


    Leanne caught Josie¡¯s gaze and instinctively lowered her head, addressing Dexter, ¡°Mr. Russell, should


    I excuse myself for now?¡±


    Leanne¡¯s approach to Dexter was strictly professional, conveying a forting demeanor that implied


    any inappropriate interactions.


    This transparency was at least public.


    Unexpectedly, Dexter raised his hand, signaling her to stay, ¡°Stay right here.¡±


    Leanne was puzzled, briefly ncing at Josie.


    Josie pressed her lips together, withholding any response.


    Dexter¡¯s expression grew stern. ¡°Arnold, your underling had zero manners, crossed the line, and


    provoked my family. Seems only right I give him a taste of discipline.¡±


    No respect whatsoever in that sardonic gaze.


    ¡°Of course, you were right. He had iting.


    Arnold strode up to Scar and quickly nced at him, saying, ¡°But I¡¯m curious, who did he tick off that


    got you so riled up?¡±


    ¡°With the hefty cost of Wyatt being in the ICU, you¡¯re definitely not holding back,¡± Dexter spoke


    candidly and named the person directly.


    Arnold¡¯s understanding seemed hazy at first, but then it clicked suddenly.


    ¡°Ah, Wyatt¡­ but you can¡¯t just put the me solely on Scar. Wyatt came to my turf uninvited, created a


    scene, and criticized you in and out, Dex. Naturally, I couldn¡¯t let it slide, so I allowed Scar to put him in


    his ce. Whe


    would¡¯ve thought it¡¯d escte to a cerebral hemorrhage out of the blue?¡±


    In simpler terms, Arnold meant that Scar causing Wyatt¡¯s hospitalization wasn¡¯t premeditated. It was an


    unfortunate ident.


    Dexter¡¯s knowing smirk held an air of intrigue. ¡°And why did you keep me out of the loop on this?¡±


    It appeared he received the news almost simultaneously with Josie. Now, the second lead to Paul had


    gone cold.


    ¡°Tsk, I was worried you¡¯d hear what he said about you and lose your temper. Plus, Yanis has already


    gone to keep my old manpany behind bars. For someone like Wyatt, I took it upon myself to give


    him a reality check. Sounds reasonable, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Arnold was crafty, subtly implying multiple things with just one sentence.


    ¡°Every life carries value. I should get something in return,¡± Dexter asserted, revealing his reluctance to


    be on the losing side.


    A shudder coursed through Josie as she witnessed Dexter and Arnold discussing life and death with


    ease and smiles as if it was a casual subject.


    Scar tugged at his restraints and shouted, ¡°Mr. Carter, save me!¡±


    Everyone was well aware that Dexter didn¡¯t show mercy when he chose to act. Should he go through


    with it, Scar might end up paying with his life.


    ¡°Quiet down! Make sure this lesson sinks in. Keep your eyes wide open and never cross Mr. Russell


    again!¡±


    Turning to Dexter, his tone shifted, ¡°Dex, go easy on him, will ya?¡±


    The bodyguards had their whips poised, ready to strike with force.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡±


    Josie cut through the chaos, advancing towards Dexter. ¡°Wyatt had a cerebral hemorrhage due to


    excessive drinking; it had nothing to do with them.¡±


    Her gaze was unwavering, as if she fully grasped the cause behind Wyatt¡¯s condition. Dexter sensed


    this to some extent; his voice remained calm, ¡°How did you manage to get out?¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t mention she had tried contacting him earlier. ¡°Climbed over the wall. No need to me the


    servants.¡±


    Dexter chuckled, ¡°How forting of you.¡±


    He caught a strong whiff of alcohol from her, and a glint of fierceness shed in the corner of his eyes.


    ¡°Jo, you¡¯re a little troublemaker, aren¡¯t you? Must¡¯ve given Mr. Carter a run for his money again. You


    really don¡¯t make it easy for me, Dexter said calmly, a touch of underlying turmoil in his words. He lifted


    his hand and ced it on Josie¡¯s shoulder, asserting his im.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like it¡¯s the first time. A couple more won¡¯t hurt,¡± Arnold added with a smirk, fanning the mes.


    ¡°I came to look into Wyatt,¡± Josie said in a hushed tone, addressing Dexter.


    ¡°You sure do have a knack for getting involved in my business,¡± Dextermented, motioning for his


    bodyguards to step back. ¡°Let him go.¡±


    Scar was set free,nding hard on the ground. He clung to his tough exterior, issuing a menacing


    threat. ¡°Dexter, mark my words. I¡¯ll make it my life¡¯s mission to get back at you and make you pay in the


    future!¡±

 Chapter 718 A Chance to Be Dex’s Brother-in-Law

    Chapter 718 A Chance to Be Dex¡¯s Brother-in-Law


    The feud between the Carters and the Russells had deep roots, hence Scar¡¯s intense animosity toward


    them.


    As the words left Scar¡¯s mouth, Arnold kicked him in the belly. ¡°Keep yapping, and I might finish you off


    first!¡±


    ¡°Rx, man. Amidst themotion, Dexter¡¯s attention was snagged by faint makeup smudges on


    Arnold¡¯s shoulder. They appeared to be imprints left by a woman resting against him.


    He gestured to Leanne, who promptly handed him a cigarette.


    Dexter extracted one and passed Josie a lighter, motioning for her to ignite it.


    Josie¡¯s nerves were taut and reluctant.


    A faint smile tugged at the corner of Dexter¡¯s lips. ¡°Go on, light it.¡±


    She hesitated for a moment before taking the lighter. With a snap, a spark of fire illuminated the sharp


    arch of the man¡¯s brows and his eyes.


    Smoke filled his lungs, and Dexter released a long exhale, finally easing a bit.


    It had been a while since he had smoked. He¡¯d promised to quit, and since then, he¡¯d refrained from


    touching a cigarette.


    Tonight was the first exception.


    ¡°I¡¯m cool, no worries,¡± Arnold remarked as he took a tissue from one of his subordinates, wiping his


    fingers clean. ¡°But did you switch personal assistants? I didn¡¯t see Mr. May around today.¡±


    Attention was refocused on Leanne.


    Now being a part of the Olsen family, she no longer felt inferior, exuding confidence and handling the


    attention from others with calmposure.


    ¡°Oh? You mean Leanne?¡±


    Dexter seized the opportunity to interject, ¡°In case you didn¡¯t know, you two are rted. She¡¯s your


    sister- inw.¡±


    Arnold arched an eyebrow, not denying it. ¡°True, but who¡¯s to say if I¡¯ll ever have the chance to be your


    brother-inw in the future.¡±


    His implication was clear, and Dexter¡¯s expression shifted.


    Leanne stepped forward and said, ¡°Mr. Carter, you¡¯ve crossed a line.¡±


    Josie was still present.


    ¡°He¡¯s consistent like that, saying what¡¯s on his mind or nothing. By the way, Ms. Olsen, I¡¯m curious why


    you¡¯vee here today¡­¡±


    Josie had reached her breaking point, unable to stand on the sidelines of the men¡¯s showdown.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    The atmosphere was bing unbearable, and she needed relief.


    In a confrontation, she locked eyes with Leanne.


    Leanne¡¯s initial firmness wavered as she grappled with Josie¡¯s question. ¡°I¡­¡±.


    Casting a fleeting look at Dexter, she seemed on the verge of speaking but held back.


    The glowing tip of the cigarette entuated Dexter¡¯s fingers, his demeanor gradually taking on a


    darker edge.


    ¡°Let me answer on your behalf,¡± Josie had already pieced together much of the puzzle.


    ¡°As the esteemed and cherished daughter of the Olsen family, you likely find it somewhat beneath you


    and not entirely fitting to work at the Russell Group, given that it doesn¡¯t enhance the prestige of your


    Ms. Olsen persona. But shouldn¡¯t you be ountable for the role you¡¯ve willingly taken on?¡±


    ¡°Did you convey the message I asked you to pass on to Mr. Russell? My hunch is you didn¡¯t.¡± Josie


    knew it was Leanne who had answered the call she had made to Dexter.


    Josie couldn¡¯t deny Leanne¡¯s cunning and capability. Despite Thomas never being granted ess to


    Dexter¡¯s personal calls, Leanne, who had only recently joined the Russell Group, seemed to muster


    that privilege.


    Under Josie¡¯s scrutiny, Leanne appeared vulnerable, as if she had been backed into a corner.


    To their surprise, Dexter positioned himself before Leanne, appearing like a protector.


    The cigarette was almost burned, and he said, ¡°She did mention the call you made.¡±


    Josie¡¯s conversation was cut short. She met the man¡¯s gaze, realizing that he was shielding Leanne.


    Hearing that, she let out a cold chuckle. ¡°Oh, she did. My bad for misunderstanding Ms. Olsen then.


    Leanne rushed to exin, ¡°I answered the call because Mr. Russell was caught up in important matters


    and¡­


    ¡°Enough, Dexter cut in, his gaze fixed on Josie¡¯s determined expression. ¡°Since Mrs. Russell can piece


    it together, exnations aren¡¯t necessary.¡±


    ¡°Dex¡­¡± Leanne¡¯s voice quivered, the words escaping inadvertently. She realized her mistake toote.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    This only fueled Josie¡¯s frustration. She nodded with a wry smile. Her words were tinged with irony.


    ¡°Exactly, no need for exnations.¡±


    Dexter extinguished his cigarette.


    At that moment, apuse rang out from behind. It was Arnold, stepping forward leisurely. ¡°Looks like I


    might actually have a shot at bing your brother-inw, ch, Dex.¡±


    Josie turned and flung her bag at him. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you? You¡¯re so eager to join his family, to


    be his brother-inw, huh?!¡±


    After her outburst, she continued striding forward with determined steps under Dexter¡¯s piercing gaze.

 Chapter 719 See You Again

    Chapter 719 See You Again


    Arnold¡¯s smug smirk etched deeper as he deliberately spilled a ss of wine onto the ground,


    remarking. ¡°Navigating the storms of Wavery is the real challenge, wouldn¡¯t you say, Dex?¡±


    With his words hanging in the air, the group trailed after Josie, their strides determined.


    Unnoticed by anyone, Dexter¡¯s gaze turned remarkably intense.


    Scar stumbled along, his caution evident, and turned to Arnold, ¡°Did Mrs. Russell provoke her husband.


    just now? What¡¯s going on between them¡­¡±.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold yfully pped his head, ¡°Address her as Ms. Warren, not Mrs. Russell!¡±


    Scar¡¯s typical menacing demeanor appeared oddly wronged now, ¡°Well¡­ Mr. Carter, but she¡¯s already


    married to Dexter Russell. Are you sure you¡¯re not being too hopeful?¡±


    Why did he get the sense that Arnold was instead relishing this fictitious identity of Josie?


    Shooting Scar a re, he corrected himself promptly, ¡°Alright, alright, my mistake. Ms. Warren, it is.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie wandered aimlessly, not knowing her destination but driven by the need to walk and


    dispel the frustration within her.


    Arnold waved off the others and trailed Josie, holding her bag.


    After walking for around thirty minutes, Josie¡¯s fatigue began to set in. She found a slightly elevated


    spot and took in the nocturnal panorama of Wavery,


    Arnold joined her, a yful grin on his face. ¡°This skyscraper of mine is enormous. You wouldn¡¯t even


    cover half of it on a single night.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t in the mood for yful banter. She remained silent, letting the breeze tousle her hair.


    However, their vantage point was tricky. If they cast a nce downwards, they would spot Dexter¡¯s car


    parked at the entrance, surrounded by a convoy of five or six cars,


    Dexter stood in an open area, Leanne at his side. Their conversation seemed to be in full swing-


    Josie gasped for air seeing their seemingly close rtionship, ¡°¡­I don¡¯t want to doubt him, but he


    never tells me anything.¡±


    She was entirely unaware of Leanne¡¯s position at the Russell Group.


    Why hadn¡¯t Dexter informed her?


    ¡°Why would he even mention such a spicy topic to you? Could you handle the heat? Everyone in


    Wavery got


    their cars to the ground about Mark and Leanne.¡±


    Arnold rested against the railing as he revisited today¡¯s event. ¡°And it¡¯s not far off from the buzz caused


    by your unexpected appearance today-equally scandalous and spicy for him to handle.¡±


    ¡°Ah, both of you walking into the shocking and spicy truths inadvertently adds to the intrigue. How


    exciting!


    He chuckled gleefully as if he were watching a sh of titans.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing this on purpose,¡± Josie sighed deeply.


    ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood me again.¡±


    Meanwhile, Dexter got into his car, Leanne in the back seat. Their vehicle led the convoy, departing


    with several others.


    With her mind in a whirl, Josie¡¯s headache only intensified.


    Out of the blue, Arnold reached out, steadying her arm. ¡°How about we head back and get some rest?¡±


    ¡°No way! I won¡¯t let Summer belittle me again.¡±


    Josie¡¯s thoughts were clear. Ready to leave, she suddenly remembered something, giving him a


    cautionary look.


    ¡°By the way, about what you said to Scar earlier, remember, Russell family members are off-limits. You


    hear me?¡±


    Josie realized she was talking to Arnold straightforwardly as if they were close buddies shooting the


    breeze.


    He smirked, clearly amused by her temper.


    ¡°Loud and clear.¡±


    It was evident that Arnold wasn¡¯t taking her seriously.


    Josie said,¡­ Make sure your business deals are above board. You¡¯re bound to sink eventually when


    you sail on troubled waters for too long. Don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn you.¡±


    ¡°Gotcha.¡± Arnold seemed to grasp the gist but not entirely, sidetracking with a chuckle.


    ¡°Is this your way of showing concern?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t be bothered to retort.


    As they walked further, she noticed Arnold¡¯s subordinates huddled together, sneakily stealing nces.


    Scar mustered up the courage to shout. Take care, Ms. Warren. Till we meet again.¡±


    Josie red fiercely at Arnold, who just shrugged andughed nonchntly. ¡°Can¡¯t tape their mouths


    shut, acan I?¡±


    What a bunch of jokers!

 Chapter 720 Stealing Secrets for Him

    Chapter 720 Stealing Secrets for Him


    The road came alive with a parade of sleek, ck luxury cars, neatly spaced about five meters apart,


    cruising down the empty thoroughfare.


    The rain pelted down incessantly, creating a rhythmic symphony on the car roofs. At the same time,


    raindrops painted graceful trails on the windowpanes.


    Breaking the silence, Dexter¡¯s voice carried a tinge of nostalgia, ¡°It¡¯s been a while since Wavery saw


    rain. this heavy.¡±


    Leanne lowered her gaze, ¡°We¡¯ve had a two-month dry spell. Spring is here finally, bringing the


    inevitable. rain.¡±


    ¡°After this storm passes, the weather will gradually warm up.¡±


    Dexter removed the rosary from his wrist, his fingers methodically tracing each bead, his expression a


    mystery.


    Despite the car¡¯s spacious design, their whispered exchange seemed to confine their surroundings.


    The man casually shifted his posture, stretching out his long legs. One hand rested casually on his


    knee, projecting an air of rxation.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    In contrast, Leanne appeared slightly constrained.


    ¡°Dex¡­ Why didn¡¯t you rify things today? When you didn¡¯t answer the phone, were you out hunting


    for her father¡¯s whereabouts?¡±


    Earlier that day, Dexter had received news that someone had sighted Paul. Yet, upon his arrival, the


    informant had changed his story, iming it was a misunderstanding.


    Dexter wasn¡¯t one to miss the subtle machinations at y. Swiftly withdrawing, he ordered his


    bodyguards to give the informant a lesson.


    It was precisely due to the escting violence that he couldn¡¯t answer the call.


    Leanne took the call in his ce and quickly informed Dexter. He promptly organized a teain to locate


    Josie, only to find that she had sought out Arnold..


    Interestingly, Wyatt¡¯s information seemed intertwined with Arnold¡¯s as well.


    This sequence of events led to their unexpected encounter.


    Earlier, Dexter and Josie were both gauging each other¡¯s trustworthiness.


    ¡°She won¡¯t buy it,¡± Dexter sighed, rubbing his temple.


    ¡­Because she saw me with you, she might not believe your exnation,¡±


    Leanne analyzed perceptively, her chuckle tinged with self-mockery, ¡°Perhaps I shouldn¡¯t have tagged


    along today.¡±


    Regret tinted her words, prompting a thoughtful look from Dexter. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    ¡°But you are.¡± Leanne sensed his uncase. It was clear that Josie¡¯s defiance had affected Dexter.


    ¡°Is it that obvious?¡± Dexter¡¯s lips curved into a wry smile, his fingers fidgeting with the rosary beads


    picking.


    Leanne shifted her stance, perching on his knee as she regarded him, an infatuated glint in her eyes.


    ¡°Dex¡­ Why do you keep me close despite Mrs. Russell bothering you?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t look at her, ¡°You¡¯re my assistant.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been an assistant to many people, but I¡¯m not interested in being just another assistant for you.¡±


    Leanne¡¯s words were almost on the nose.


    Dexter eventually nced downwards, and Leanne¡¯s eyes gleamed brightly in the dim light.


    ¡°With the rain and the need for caution, our driver won¡¯t speed. It¡¯ll take us about an hour to reach the


    Olsen Residence at our current pace. It could get exhausting. You should take a nap if you can.¡±


    Dexter deftly ignored her flirtatious advance.


    With someone else, her implied meaning might have been clear.


    Leanne¡¯s hand on his leg was tender, brushing over his vulnerable points.


    ¡°Dex, even if I end up being a secretpanion, I¡¯d still be willing.¡±


    She was candid and raw, though.


    Dexter paused in his maniption of the beads. ¡°My business involves risks that can manifest at any


    time. You shouldn¡¯t associate yourself with me too much.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m quite amodating, Dex. I¡¯m willing to go along with your wishes.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s response prompted him to gently lift her chin. ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t behave like her, openly provoke you in front of everyone.¡±


    Thinking back to Josie¡¯s disrespectful behavior earlier, Leanne believed Dexter wouldn¡¯t condone such


    actions.


    His silence persisted, and he asked, ¡°Would you go as far as pilfering secrets from the Olsen family on


    my behalf?¡±


    Even her gaze faltered.


    ¡°Consider it a gesture of your loyalty andmitment, like you said¡­¡± Dexter echoed her words.


    ¡°L¡­¡± Leanne¡¯s thoughts raced, ¡°I haven¡¯t even begun at the Olsen Group. It¡¯s beyond my capability.¡±


    ¡°Ability can be nurtured if the intention is there.¡±


    Leanne¡¯s hand slipped away, ¡°Mark has been kind to me¡­ He¡¯s my father.¡±

 Chapter 721 Fancy Becoming Mrs Carter?

    Chapter 721 Fancy Bing Mrs Carter?


    Dexter reclined slowly as if sighing. ¡°You¡¯re correct. He does care about you a lot.¡±


    The rain painted streaks on the car windows, the outside lights gleamed in the darkness, and an older


    mant with a crutch stood patiently at the doorstep.


    ¡°Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be waiting specifically for you on a raining night like this.¡±


    Moses stepped out of the car with an umbre, opening the door for her. ¡°Ms. Olsen, we¡¯ve reached


    your home.¡±


    At that moment, Leanne realized they had arrived at the Olsen Residence.


    Josie tried to stand up, but her knees wavered, and she stumbled into Dexter¡¯s arms. The sight of them


    embracing caught Mark¡¯s attention.


    Dexter lifted his gaze slightly, his tone carrying more weight, ¡°You better go in now. Your father must be


    very worried about you.¡±¡°


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    The car pulled away swiftly, unfazed by the pouring rain.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, where to now?¡± Moses inquired.


    Dexter again secured his rosary around his wrist, ¡°Back to Mason Garden.¡°


    Half an hourter, they arrived at Mason Garden.


    The main bedroom¡¯s light was illuminated.


    The rain had dampened the cuffs of Dexter¡¯s clothes. He pushed open the door and entered, spotting


    the woman who had just emerged from the bath.


    Their eyes met, and in a split second, she seized a cushion from the sofa and flung it at him.


    Unsatisfied with the cushion, she grabbed a tablemp andunched it in his direction.


    Dexter didn¡¯t dodge; his demeanor was calm and rxed.


    As Josie¡¯s barrage of items ended, she slumped onto the couch, breathing heavily. Then, he bent


    down, retrieving the tablemp and setting it back in ce.


    ¡°Feeling better now?¡±


    Turning her body away, Josie refused to engage with him.


    ¡°Are you willing to listen now?¡±


    Josie wanted to leave the bedroom, but Dexter caught her wrist.


    ¡°You¡¯re really something, you know? Took Arnold¡¯s wine and slept with him. I haven¡¯t even brought this


    up yet¡±


    Dexter sat down, tugging her to sit beside him.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t sleep with anyone! Stop making baseless usations.¡± Josie¡¯s agitation was palpable.


    Dexter ignited another cigarette, his gaze on her softening, turmoil simmering.


    ¡°¡­He practically forced me to drink, and I only leaned on him for a moment.¡± Josie changed her


    phrasing. realizing that ying innocent wouldn¡¯t work.


    ¡°Why did you meet him privately?¡± Dexter took a deep drag from his cigarette, the tips of his fingers.


    catching the tobo scent.


    ¡°For Pop, of course!¡±


    ¡°If the Russell family couldn¡¯t locate your father, what makes you think you could?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t arrogance on Dexter¡¯s part but a fundamentalw in Wavery.


    Josie was a step ahead.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know Wyatt was hospitalized. If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have bothered.¡±


    Dexter let out a dry chuckle. ¡°I can¡¯t me you for that, I found out recently myself.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression was a mixture of ¡®you¡¯re misunderstanding me.¡±


    ¡°We met privately a few times.¡± Dexter lifted his hand, brushing away the raindrops that fell onto his


    hand from her hair.


    ¡­Just once recently.¡±


    His hand moved up to press on the teardrop mole at the corner of her eye. Josie let out a soft


    involuntary sound, a reaction he often elicited. Whenever their emotions ran deep, he tended to touch


    that teardrop mole.


    It had be something of a habit.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯re truly aiming to be Mrs. Russell. Dexter exerted more pressure. ¡°Do you want to be


    Mrs. Carter?¡±


    This was spiraling into absurdity. Josie suddenly pushed him away, frustration evident in her eyes.


    ¡°Dexter, is it that I¡¯m not interested, or do you have a more suitable candidate?¡±


    Pushed back, Dexter regarded her in silence.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about Leanne joining Russell Group?¡±


    ¡°Now you know. So, are you going to interrogate me now?¡±


    Arnold had a point; Josie would have been angry whether she was informed or not.


    ¡°You¡¯re fond of her.¡± Josie¡¯s frustration grew as if she were searching for traces of it on him.


    Dexter closed his eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re actually fond of her!¡± Josie¡¯s anxiety grew. She took a step forward, gripping his hands and


    making him open his eyes.


    Her agitation was such that she practically leaned on him, her breathing fast.


    Dexter made a muffled sound, restraining her, ¡°Are you trying to seduce me?¡±


    ¡°Answer me!¡±

 Chapter 722 You are the Only One for Me

    Chapter 722 You are the Only One for Me


    Dexter grinned at her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you a feisty one? I was taken aback by your actions at Sky Pce!¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t give me much of a choice either¡­ Josie mumbled.


    Dexter observed her as she looked away meekly and felt his guard drop. ¡°You¡¯re the only one for me,


    you know?¡± He whispered as he gathered her into his arms.


    ¡°Surely you have many other lovers.¡±


    ¡°There is no one else, Jo. No one else,¡± Dexter peppered her creased brows with kisses.


    Josie¡¯s heart fluttered, but she quickly snapped out of her reverie when she felt something hard


    pressing against her. ¡°Stop it.¡±


    Having been denied his pleasure, Dexter frowned. ¡°Jo¡±


    ¡°I will not rest until we find my father.¡± Josie quickly interrupted, her sorrow evident on her face.


    Even though Liana¡¯s presenceplicated things between her and Dexter, Josie did not have the


    mental capacity to y chess with Liana. Without Paul, nothing mattered.


    Dexter felt his lust evaporate when he realized how concerned Josie was. ¡°Do you know Paul¡¯s


    history?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you look into it?¡±


    ¡°Only about his whereabouts after he came to Wavery.¡±


    Josie exhaled. That¡¯s all I remember about him too.


    ¡°What about before that?¡± Dexter asked.


    ¡°Do you also think his absence may be tied to his past?¡±


    ¡°My men went to look for your mother. She¡¯s missing too.¡±


    Josie stared at Dexter in horror. ¡°What? Why?¡±


    Could there be some horrendous secret behind what has happened?


    Dexter pulled out his box of cigarettes again to smoke. However, Josie ced a hand on his to stop


    him. ¡°Two a day, remember?¡±


    Dexter faltered. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not certain about this information, but I think he used to stay in Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Rivodia, eh? I¡¯ll send men to check out the area.¡±


    ¡°Bring me along. You know I won¡¯t rest till I find Paul. If you bring me along, I might remember


    something.¡± Josie pled as she grasped his hand.


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    Dexter fell silent for a minute while flicking his lighter on and off, which cast him in bouts of bright light.


    ¡°That¡¯s too risky,¡± he responded eventually but took half a step back when Josie leaned forward.


    ¡°Hah, are you doubting my abilities?¡±


    Dexterughed and shook his head. ¡°You trickster. Come along then!¡±


    The young man pondered for a moment before adding, ¡°Morgan is in Rivodia. You might be able to get


    some help from him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask for help from him if I need it,¡± Josie mumbled mysteriously, but Dexter was appalled.


    ¡°Josie, he may be able to help you!¡± Dexter eximed as he put down his lighter to emphasize his


    point.


    However, Josie giggled at him. ¡°That was a joke.¡±


    The next day, Dexter sent Josie, Moses, and his team of ten to embark on their journey to Rivodia.


    Although he was keen to go with them, he had to make sure Russell Group was well managed, and


    thankfully Josie understood.


    ¡°You can trust them, Dexter advised before parting with her at the airport, to which Josie nodded.


    ¡°And remember, your safetyes first.¡±


    After parting ways, Josie and the team were on the way to board the ne when she was intercepted


    by a crew member. ¡°Miss Warren? Someone is here to meet you.¡±


    Moses stepped forward to protect Josie.


    However, Josie quickly responded before Moses could. I will go. Stay here and be on guard.¡±


    The crew member brought her down a corridor reserved for VIPs to a room where a man was waiting


    for her. The man¡¯s face was obscured by the Wavery morning newspapers, but Josie caught sight of


    the walking stick next to the man and quickly realized who it was.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen?¡± She called out.


    The man lowered his newspaper. ¡°You¡¯re a smart girl, Ms. Warren, the man replied.

 Chapter 723 It’s a Pity You are not an Olsen

    Chapter 723 It¡¯s a Pity You are not an Olsen


    Josie stared down at him from where she was standing. She knew that how she dressed expressed


    that she no longer carried the childish naivete she used to.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we met by coincidence, did we, Mr. Olsen?¡±


    On the other hand, Mark Olsen was dressed neatly in a shirt and cks and had a set of gold- rimmed


    spectacles, which made him look like a university lecturer instead of an owner of arge conglomerate


    firm in Wavery.


    Mark refrained from responding. Instead, he gestured at a chair. ¡°Sit.¡±


    Despite her reluctance to concede, she felt Mark¡¯s bodyguard stare into the back of her head with such


    vehemence that she knew she had no choice.


    ¡°I heard that Leanne met you yesterday at the Sky Pce,¡± Mark did not waste time with pleasantries.


    ¡°Are you here to rebuke me on behalf of your beloved daughter?¡±


    ¡°She criedst night because of you.¡±


    Mark¡¯s remark nearly made Josieugh out loud as she thought to herself. She really is the family¡¯s


    beloved. Her tears canpel her father, who is a busy head of the family, to speak to the person who


    had hurt her daughter personally! Most fathers would¡¯ve just told their children not to engage with


    people who don¡¯t look eye-to-eye with them.


    Josie raised an eyebrow, questioning silently.


    Mark continued, ¡°I believe many people offered to reward you if you left Dexter even though have been


    married to him for two years. Hence, I believe that bribery would not work. However, I heard your father


    has gone missing, hasn¡¯t he?¡±


    Josie¡¯s questioning expression turned hard. ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    ¡°No, that isn¡¯t my intention. However, I offer my services. If you¡¯re willing topromise, I can hunt him


    down to the ends of the earth and beyond for you,¡±


    Surely, I would have to pay a steep price. Josie thought to herself.


    ¡°I¡¯m tempted. My father is important to me,¡±


    Mark smiled and shrugged as if waiting for her to decide.


    ¡°However, if the Russells cannot find him in Wavery, how could the Olsens do any better?¡±


    Josie was courageous enough to challenge Mark because she knew Dexter had her back.


    On the other hand, Mark was astounded, but only for a moment. ¡°The Russells have their tendrils


    weaved into Wavery, but the Olsens¡¯ authority can reach the furthest ces of the world.¡±


    ¨C


    Money and connections don¡¯t lie the Olsens can really reach the ends of the earth. Josie contemted


    his offer sorrowfully with a loud sigh.


    Mark expected Josie to beg pitifully and felt his smile melt away uneasily. ¡°Why the loud sigh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aggrieved. You must have been fretting when you struggled to find Liana, who went missing. I did


    not expect someone who experienced what I¡¯m experiencing now to use my missing father to threaten


    me. I guess empathy is a myth.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Mark did not expect to hear that from Josie, but her words hit him hard.


    Josie noticed that the sharpness in his eyes dulled as if he regretted his actions. ¡°You¡¯re a gooddy,


    Josie. It¡¯s a pity that you are not an Olsen.¡±


    Josie felt her heart skip a beat. It was true that if she was an Olsen, she could have all the finances and


    authority backing her every action. Liana and Josie could have had the same. fate, but their lives are


    drastically different.


    However, Josie begged to differ.


    ¡°Is it a pity? I don¡¯t think so. My family isn¡¯t rich, and we had to work hard through school and at work.


    Even now, we have to pay for the medical bills. And yet, my father has been exceptional. He gave me


    all the love that he had. Sometimes, I think he loves me more than. he loves his biological son. Do you


    think you could do that for your children?¡±


    Mark knew that she insinuated that he did not love his children well.

 Chapter 724 Use Your Marriage as a Transaction

    Chapter 724 Use Your Marriage as a Transaction


    Mark has met all kinds of characters in his life and knew that he was a good judge of character, and yet


    he secretly apuded Josie¡¯s father for raising her to be a respectable. youngdy. She is firm. Most


    people would¡¯ve agreed that they wish they had been born richer, and with the same breath, discount


    their parents¡¯ efforts.


    In fact, he was the one who was swayed by Josie¡¯s resilience.


    ¡°I hope you will remain as stubborn as you are today after this blows over.¡±


    Josie got up. ¡°Your words make you soundplicit in my father¡¯s disappearance, Mr. Olsen.¡±


    ¡°He is not worth my time,¡± the middle-aged man responded.


    Josie, who intended to leave the room, felt her temper rise when she heard Mark. ¡°Your pride will be


    your downfall, Mr. Olsen. Be careful not to lose Liana ¨C you might find it hard to gather allies.¡±


    Mark¡¯s eyes widened in horror upon hearing her words.


    ¡°Guards! Keep her here! She will not be able to leave or go to Rivodia unless she apologizes for what


    she said!¡±


    Josie¡¯s temper red. ¡°How dare you do this to me!¡± She screamed, but the guards had already


    grabbed her wrists.


    Mark rose from his seat. ¡°You have nothing on me, you pathetic little girl.¡±


    He knew that she was in a rush. Hence keeping her here would inconvenience her greatly.


    With the guard pinning her down in her seat, Josie could only follow with her eyes as Mark walked past


    her towards the exit.


    She began yelling his name to no avail but was surprised to hear Mark¡¯s footstep stop after opening the


    door as if something was stopping him from leaving.


    ¡°Here you are, Father. It was hard to find you.¡±


    Josie felt her spirit rise. ¡°Arnold! Help me!¡±


    Arnold peeked into the room over Mark¡¯s shoulder. ¡°What are you doing, Father?¡±


    Mark squinted at him, suspicious that Arnold could find him at such an opportune moment. ¡°Why are


    you here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m working. I heard that you were here and decided to drop by to say hello.¡±


    ¡°How could you wear that to work?¡± Mark questioned, unable to believe what Arnold said.


    ¡°You know my style. Dexter¡¯s the one who dresses well.¡±


    ¡°And does Summer know about this?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie tried and failed to twist around to face the door and began to shout even more. ¡°Arnold! Are you


    there?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I am,¡± Arnold responded, but Mark refused to budge from the doorway.


    Arnold could not help but grin to himself. ¡°Why are you picking a fight with a woman, Father?¡±


    Mark raised an eyebrow when he heard Arnold¡¯s question. ¡°And who is she to you?¡±


    ¡°You can say that she¡¯s¡­ An old friend.¡± Arnold emphasized, insinuating that Josie was his old. me.


    ¡°I know her. You can leave her in my hands.¡±

 Chapter 725 Arnold Could Not Hurt Josie

    Chapter 725 Arnold Could Not Hurt Josie


    Arnold beckoned to Mark and whispered something to him.


    ¡°Are you certain?¡± Mark¡¯s suspicions turned to doubt.


    ¡°Yes, I am.¡±


    Having his suspicions resolved, Mark snapped his fingers to summon his bodyguard and quickly


    departed.


    Without the burly bodyguard holding her in ce, Josie sat up with a sigh of relief and shook the


    muscle soreness away.


    ¡°How did you get on his bad side?¡± Arnold asked as he entered the room.


    ¡°I find it hard to believe you¡¯re here for work,¡± Josie responded without answering his question.


    ¡°Would you believe me if I said I¡¯m a prince, here to save the princess?¡±


    ¡°Well, mission aplished. You can go now.¡±


    As they exited the room, Josie saw the bodyguard Dexter sent to protect her still lingering outside.


    When Moses saw her, he quickly announced that the ne was going to depart soon and beckoned for


    her to hurry.


    Josie jogged to the boarding area. However, before she could hand over her boarding pass to the crew


    member, Arnold snatched the piece of paper away. rmed, she tried to wrest her paper back, but to


    her surprise, he had two pieces of boarding passes in his hand.


    ¡°Wow, I guess we¡¯re on the same flight!¡± Arnold eximed.


    Josie was astounded, but Moses was even more disbelieving. ¡°Mr. Carter, I believe this would be


    inappropriate.¡±


    Arnold grinned.


    ¡°The ne doesn¡¯t belong to the Russells. Why can¡¯t I board the same flight?¡± He responded


    lightheartedly as he handed the boarding passes to the crew member.


    After boarding the ne, Josie stole the opportunity to call someone before she had to turn. her phone


    on airne mode.


    ¡°Sergeant Buncho?¡±


    Arnold nearly choked when he realized that Josie had called the police.


    ¡°I want to lodge a report. I was uwfully detained by Mark Olsen, the head of the Olsen. family, at the


    airport. I have been released, but his actions deeply scarred me.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s shock gave way to reverence.


    ¡°I suspect that he isplicit in my father¡¯s disappearance. Do you remember that you asked me


    whether we had any enemies? Now you have your answer,¡± Josie paused to listen. Then she added,


    ¡°okay, I trust you will follow the lead I just provided. Let me know if your have news.


    She hung up the call and switched her phone off, but her expression remained stern.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Did you just lodge a report against Mark Olsen?¡± Arnold grinned.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I do that? He detained me for around three minutes!¡± Josie gritted her teeth as she recalled


    every grueling second of her encounter with him.


    ¡°A measly sergeant won¡¯t be able to touch Mark, you know?¡±


    Josie burst out inughter and tilted her head towards Arnold. ¡°Do I look that na?ve? I know that, but I


    relish any small inconvenience I can create for them.¡±


    ¡°Would you like an expos¨¦ or a press conference?¡±


    ¡°Would you do that for me?¡±


    She was so excited she could burst, but Arnold merely rolled his eyes at her.


    Meanwhile, Dexter watched as the nes whooshed into the sky as the cold air wrapped around his


    body. Wisps of smoke curled around his fingers and disappeared into the mist.


    Larry, his secretary, approached him hesitantly as he watched his employer stare at the sky.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we just received news that Arnold Carter and Mrs. Russell are on the same flight.¡±


    Dexter did not respond, as if he had already anticipated this report.


    ¡°Has the shipment at the port been delivered?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it was delivered at the same time Mrs. Russell¡¯s ne departed.¡±


    Dexter huffed. ¡°That shipment is worth 80 million, yet they were unwilling to ship it out.


    With Wavery¡¯s authority breathing down their necks, I¡¯m certain those are some ck- market


    materials. The only way they could move it was to have Arnold send it out. personally. He sure is a true


    business yer.¡±


    Larry nodded. ¡°Should we inform Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll know the moment she disembarks from the ne.¡±


    Larry paused momentarily, adding, ¡°Would it be dangerous for her? Arnold doesn¡¯t tiptoe around


    death.¡±


    Dexter squeezed his eyebrows together. Why does my cigarette taste like bile? Where is the usual hit


    of dopamine?


    Turning to Larry, he shook his head. ¡°He would never dare to hurt Josie.¡±

 Chapter 726 A Voice Recording

    Chapter 726 A Voice Recording


    Larry nced at the half-burnt cigarette. ¡°Mr. Russell, you haven¡¯t smoked for a long time. Mrs. Russell


    would not be happy if she found out that you rpsed.¡±


    Dexter stopped smoking because the couple tried to conceive, but bad habits die hard.


    ¡°Do not tell Mrs. Russell about it when shees back,¡± Dexter shot Larry a look while stubbing the


    cigarette out.


    Larry nodded. ¡°I won¡¯t. After all, men need an outlet. Smoking is nothing.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°How¡¯s the progress at the construction site?¡± Dexter asked as he got into the car.


    ¡°Things are still uncertain, although the ns are underway. We recently seized three projects from the


    Carter Group, putting them on high alert.¡±


    Dexter leaned back with his eyes closed as he listened to Larry¡¯s report. ¡°Paul Warren¡¯s whereabouts


    are still a mystery. Our men are canvassing a greater area to no avail.¡±


    If the Russells could not find Paul, that meant that he most probably was not in Wavery.


    ¡°Send a batch of men to Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    As the journey wore on, Larry contemted whether or not to offer his opinion, and eventually did. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, isn¡¯t it dangerous to have someone from the Olsen family around you?¡± Indicating that he was


    uneasy about Liana Olsen.


    It was evident that Mark Olsen nted Liana at the Russells so that he had an eye on what they were


    nning to do, yet Dexter allowed her to stay.


    Many considered him to be ying with fire.


    ¡°Is she a threat?¡± Dexter asked as he opened his eyes when the car came to a stop.


    Looking ahead, he saw Heather taking a picture of her simple outfit in the full-length mirror at the


    entrance to the Russell Group.


    Larry followed his gaze and noted that the young woman looked youthful, even innocent.


    ¡°She looks harmless, but people usually only reveal their trump card at the end.¡±


    When Heather noticed Dexter¡¯s car, she quickly put away her phone and approached the vehicle.


    Peeking in through the car window, she called out to Dexter, ¡°Hi, Dex.¡±


    ¡°I caused trouble for youst night, so my father had mee and apologize to you,¡± Heather looked


    down embarrassedly.


    ¡°He might¡¯ve been harsh on you, so don¡¯t be so hard on yourself. Go on in, I¡¯lle in soon.¡± Dexter


    replied monotonously.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Heather beamed.


    Dexter watched her waltz into the building before dropping his smile. ¡°Go back to the construction site. I


    need you to monitor them,¡± he instructed Larry.


    Dexter strode into Russell Group and took the lift up to the top floor. As he entered his office, he heard


    someone speaking softly.


    He walked cautiously to the pantry and heard Heather on the phone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that, Summer. You don¡¯t know whether there were bad intentions behind those words.¡±


    There was a moment of silence as the other party responded.


    ¡°I know, but I will never rest peacefully if I schemed my way to be with Dex.¡±


    ¡°I will not hurt Miss Warren. She¡¯s a good person!¡±


    Dexter peeked at Heather through the door gap to see her quickly hang up. She then tapped on her


    phone, and a voice recording started to y.


    ¡°You managed to secure a good life, didn¡¯t you? You¡¯re living in a luxurious home and have free ess


    to high society. Even if your father recovers, your current lifestyle would¡¯ve been. a fairy tale to


    someone of your social status. Now that you¡¯ve tasted luxury, you¡¯re holding on to it for dear life! What


    a greedy person you are!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, I won¡¯t let go.¡±


    ¡°Josie, you little snake!¡±


    ¡°Miss Olsen, although you vowed to give me what I already have, I believe nothing you offer me will be


    as much as lucrative as what I already have as Mrs. Russell. I will use my resemnce to Liana fully to


    my advantage. In fact, do you think Dexter thinks I¡¯m Liana?¡°

 Chapter 727 Make Her Send the File

    Chapter727MakeHerSendtheFile


    Dexter listened to the voice recording. Anyone else would have felt enraged to be seemingly taken


    advantage of, but Dexter seemed unperturbed.


    Heather listened to the recording again and sighed before turning to leave the pantry. Looking up from


    her phone, she realized that Dexter was watching her and took a step back in shock.


    ¡°Dex, when did you¡­¡±


    ¡°Give it to me.¡± Dexter raised his hand.


    However, Heather quickly hid her phone behind her back. ¡°Someone gave me the recording. I believe


    she didn¡¯t mean what she said, so please don¡¯t take it to heart. I¡¯ve deleted the recording too.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s open palm did not waver.


    Fearing Dexter would get angry, Heather slowly ced her phone in his hand. ¡°I already deleted it.¡±


    Dexter opened the chat application on her phone and found Heather¡¯s conversation with Summer.


    Show this to Dexter Russell. Let him know the real Josie Warren. Summer wrote to Heather, but


    Heather kept declining her.


    He tapped on the recording file, only for the phone to state that the file had been removed from the


    device.


    ¡°Are you upset, Dex?¡± Heather questioned tentatively.


    little sister request for you to do these kinds of things frequently?¡±


    ¡°Does your little sister


    Seeing that Dexter was not upset, Heather sighed in relief. ¡°Not frequently, just sometimes.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you show the recording to me? I might have believed in you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to ruin your rtionship with Miss Warren with underhanded tactics. The recording doesn¡¯t


    sound like her. Perhaps the recording was stitched together by someone to implicate her,¡± Heather


    replied.


    Dexter felt a little proud of this young woman. I¡¯m d that she doesn¡¯t resort to underhanded tactics.


    ¡°Nah, I¡¯m sure Josie would say something like that,¡± Dexter responded as he walked towards his desk.


    He did not sound like he was ming Josie. In fact, he sounded a little proud of Josie!


    Josie has a sharp tongue ¨C she would not back down from a fight without ast word.


    Heather frowned and left to get a cup of Americano.


    Dexter was in the midst of signing some documents when Heather entered his office.


    ¡°If that were Josie speaking, I would want to know the answer to herst statement about you mixing


    up her and me,¡± Heather asked.


    Dexter stopped his writing. ¡°I have never mixed you up.¡±


    Heather¡¯s frown deepened.


    Does that mean that his feelings toward Miss Warren are different from his feelings toward me?


    Heather felt her heart swirl with unnamed¡® emotions.


    After signing all the documents, he closed them up with a snap and held them up to Heather. ¡°Send


    these files to Sphinx Corp,¡±


    ¡°Why Sphinx Corp?¡±


    ¡°Do you feel torn between mypany and Olsen Group since bothpanies want to cooperate with


    Sphinx Corp?¡± Dexter looked into the young woman¡¯s eyes.


    Heather took the files from Dexter. ¡°No, I understand that businesspetition is tight. However, my


    identity as an Olsen makes it inappropriate for me to send confidential documents like this, no?¡±


    Dexter grinned as if it did not matter to him. ¡°I trust you.¡±


    Three little words but it held great significance to the listener.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Heather nodded shyly. ¡°I¡¯ll go immediately.¡±


    After she had left the office, Dexter rested his head in his hands in exasperation.


    The day wore by.


    Dexter had a dinner appointment with Sphinx Corp in the evening. Team members who were drinkers


    had mentally prepared themselves, but to their surprise, Dexter only brought Heather.


    Rumors began to float around. ¡°Why is Mr. Russell always taking Heather out for his appointments?


    What¡¯s their rtionship?¡°¡±


    On the other hand, Heather had a predicament. ¡°Dex, I don¡¯t drink,¡± she whispered urgently before they


    were ushered into the room reserved for their appointment.


    Dexter nodded, his eyes glued onto his watch. ¡°I¡¯ll get them only to offer you tea.¡±


    Heather blushed at his words. ¡°Please don¡¯t tease me¡­¡±

 Chapter 728 Keeping Secrets

    Chapter728KeepingSecrets


    ¡°How would I dare to ask a youngdy of the Olsen family to drink with me? I will be in serious trouble if


    your father finds out,¡± Dexter joked and smiled, but his gaze remained stern.


    ¡°Anyway¡­¡±


    ¡°Stay with me.¡±


    Those words pulled at Heather¡¯s heartstrings.


    This dinner gathering was to discuss a project. Although there was some alcohol, it was at a moderate


    level. Heather sat beside Dexter, listening to the discussion attentively.


    After some time, Dexter¡¯s business partner finally noticed Heather. ¡°Miss, you look familiar. You remind


    me of Mrs. Russell. Are you¡­¡±


    Heather turned to Dexter immediately.


    Dexter answered calmly, ¡°She¡¯s my assistant. You¡¯ve probably seen her when she sent documents to


    yourpany this morning.¡±


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    The business partner asked his secretary. His secretary nodded, confirming the truth of Dexter¡¯s words.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I overstepped. The person appeared embarrassed.


    Heather excused herself to go to the washroom.


    Heaven on Earth had many private rooms. Apart from Dexter¡¯s meeting, there was another dinner


    gathering at the back. The gathering sounded lively, but there was a sudden disturbance, and someone


    suddenly kicked open Dexter¡¯s door.


    It was Summer. She came in with a ss of wine and said, ¡°My, my, aren¡¯t you Mr. Redford of Sphinx


    Corp?¡±


    Mr. Redford nced at Dexter before replying to Summer awkwardly, ¡°This¡­¡±


    Summer had a business gathering tonight and wore a fur coat. She looked sultry as she approached


    them. ¡°Mr. Redford, how could you betray me? I¡¯ve requested a meeting for a month, but you always


    refused. I didn¡¯t expect to bump into you here.¡±


    Mr. Redford¡¯s face flushed embarrassedly. ¡°Ms. Olsen, I have some matters to discuss with Mr.


    Wickam.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Summer appeared drunk and behaved recklessly. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s the construction in the


    south area.¡±


    No one responded.


    Dexter leaned into his seat and looked tired.


    ¡°I¡¯m right then.¡± Summer raised her voice. ¡°But I won¡¯t ept this. The Olsen family¡¯s proposal and


    fund were as good as Russell Group¡¯s! Why didn¡¯t you choose us!¡±


    Mr. Redford Tooked at Dexter as if asking for help. ¡°It wasn¡¯t because the Olsen family is not good


    enough. We felt Russell Group¡¯s proposal was more suitable for Sphinx Corp.¡±


    ¡°Suitable?¡± Summerughed as if she had heard a joke. Fury surged within her, but she had no way to


    vent it. She threw the wine ss on the floor, causing the ss to shatter everywhere. ¡°I¡¯ve worked as


    a researcher for three years. How would I not know what¡¯s suitable for yourpany?¡±


    Then, she red at Dexter, who remained silent, before stomping away in her high heel shoes.


    Mr. Redford was nervous even after she left. ¡°Mr. Russell, who knew this Ms. Olsen has such a


    temper?¡±


    Dexter gave a vague smile. ¡°She wasn¡¯t like that before.¡±


    Half an hourter, Dexter bid Mr. Redford farewell and watched him leave in his car.


    Heather stood behind Dexter. The wind was cold at night. She sped her hands to stay warm. ¡°Dex, I


    heard Summer came by and caused a scene.¡±


    Dexter gave her an ambiguous nce. ¡°She was distraught about losing the project with Sphinx Corp.


    It will most likely damage her status in the Olsen family.¡±


    Heather seemed confused about his words.


    Dexter had instructed Heather to send documents today. She had plenty of opportunities to leak


    secrets to Summer during this period.


    Yet, Summer¡¯s reaction from just now proved Heather did not reveal anything. In other words, Heather


    had fulfilled her duties.


    ¡°Yes, I willfort her when I¡¯m home. I don¡¯t think Dad will punish her over this.¡±


    Heather seemed unaware of the situation and did not pick up Dexter¡¯s hint.


    Neon lights lit up the night scenery, allowing Dexter to glimpse her gentle expression. His heart


    softened/ slightly.


    Perhaps I shouldn¡¯t only treat her as a pawn. If there¡¯s a chance, I should treat her as a friend.

 Chapter 729 Medical Malpractice

    Chapter729MedicalMalpractice


    Dexter¡¯s staff had already readied a car when Josie exited the ne. Her first destination was the


    hospital where Paul used to work in.


    A ck Porsche traveled from the airport¡¯s underground car park and sped toward the destination.


    Since Josie was the only passenger, Moses asked, ¡°Mrs. Russell, what if Arnold follows us?¡±


    They were not sure why Arnold came to Rivodia.


    Josie looked at the city¡¯s night scenery and replied, ¡°He can¡¯t be that free or generous to follow me to


    search for Paul.¡±


    Moses nodded.


    They soon arrived at Rivodia City Hospital. The hospital director was informed of their arrival and


    rushed to wee them. ¡°Greetings, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°Have we met before?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell informed me that you would be visiting. Pleasee in.¡± The hospital led the way and


    brought Josie to an office. He poured her a ss of water and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to travel so far.


    How may I help you, Mrs. Russell?¡±


    The hospital director observed Josie closely, trying to ascertain her illness.


    Josie smiled, ¡°I¡¯m here to ask about someone?¡±


    ¡°May I know who?¡±


    ¡°His surname is Warren, and he used to be a surgeon in your hospital.¡± Josie offered the hospital


    director a doctor¡¯s practicing certificate as she spoke. It had a photo of Paul.


    The hospital director adjusted his sses and looked at it with a tight frown.


    Josie had a bad feeling about this.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, this manst worked in our hospital more than a decade ago, but I was only transferred


    here ten years ago. Furthermore, it¡¯s such an old matter. I can¡¯t recall anything about him.¡°¡±


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    It was terrible news.


    Josie clenched her hands. ¡°In that case, can you help me check his records in this hospital? I want to


    know why he left.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± the hospital director agreed and immediately made a phone call


    Around half an hourter, the hospital director left the room momentarily before returning with a folder.


    ¡°This is hisplete record.¡±


    Josie immediately opened the folder and read it. She was surprised that Paul had conducted many


    significant surgeries during his period of employment in this hospital. Furthermore, he presented many


    medical papers. However, his career onlysted three years. Everything ended abruptly, and the record


    only stated a few words. ¡°Termination of employment!


    The reason was severe medical malpractice.


    However, the record did not provide details about it.


    ¡°I investigated and discovered that his license was revoked after this.¡±


    That was why he moved his family to Waverly and had difficulty getting stable employment.


    Josie looked at how young Paul looked in the photo and wondered what kind of injustice he had


    suffered.


    She recalled Paul was dependable and highly experienced. It was impossible to believe he had


    committed severe medical malpractice unless something had happened.


    ¡°Is there any doctor from more than ten years ago still in this hospital?¡±


    The hospital director considered before replying, ¡°The older doctors were all promoted and transferred


    elsewhere or retired¡­ Oh, you can talk to the former hospital director. He might know what had


    happened then.¡±


    ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, he¡¯s still in Rivodia and is quite well¨Cknown. You should be able to find him quite


    easily. However, I¡¯m afraid he might not reveal anything.¡±


    Josie was not afraid despite the hospital director¡¯s concern. She was willing to try any clue she could


    find.


    Still, the hospital director did not know the person¡¯s address, so Josie had no choice but to contact


    Dexter.


    His staff in Waverly immediately attended to the matter. Soon, Larry sent a message. ¡®His name is


    Robert Quincy. He is the proprietor of La Oriele in Rivodia¡¯s southern district.


    Josie read it and wanted to set off immediately. However, Larry sent another message. ¡®Mrs. Russell,


    Mr. Russell reminds you to be careful.¡®

 Chapter 730 Popping Candy

    Chapter730PoppingCandy


    Compared to Waverly, Rivodia was a tourism¨Cfocused city with only a few nightclubs. Furthermore, La


    Oriele was the biggest.


    It was three in the morning, the hour La Oricle was most busy. Women with alluring figures stood at the


    entrance to wee their respective patrons.


    Since it would be too eye¨Ccatching for a group of people to enter this ce, Josie instructed the other


    men to wait outside while she entered with Moses.


    La Oriele was an establishment where people spent money to have fun and get drunk. Josie and


    Moses sat in a corner to observe the surrounding. Although it seemed like a hedonistic ce, many


    guards were patrolling. They had tattoos on their arms and looked fierce and intimidating.


    ¡°Since Robert is the man in charge, I don¡¯t think he wille to this area.¡± Moses opened a bottle of


    beer.


    ¡°Can you see what they are looking for?¡± Josie observed the guards.


    These guards were thorough with their spot checks. They looked into every booth seat.


    Moses considered before answering, ¡°In this kind of establishment, they are most likely searching for


    drugs.¡±


    Josie agreed with his answer. ¡°What do you think we should do to meet Robert?¡±


    She and Moses exchanged nces.


    The former grabbed the beer and took a few sips. It tasted so strong that she nearly teared up from the


    burn. Then, she pulled out a small packet containing pink powder from her pocket.


    Moses widened his eyes in shock. ¡°Jo¡­¡± He even forgot to call her Mrs. Russell.


    Josie raised her hand. ¡°It¡¯s only popping candy. I asked someone to get it for me before entering.¡±


    Moses pursed his lips. ¡°Are you going to¡­¡±


    Josie opened the packet and waited for the guards toe near before leaning back and pouring the


    content into her mouth. The candies crackled on her tongue. She acted like she was in the throes of


    ecstasy and slumped on the couch. At the same time, she pinched her face to make it seem flushed.


    Moses yed along and attempted to block her from the guards¡® view.


    As expected, those tant gestures attracted the guards¡® attention. They dashed to their table and


    pushed Moses away. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Josie smiled dreamily and fluttered hershes. She acted like she was under the drug¡¯s influence.


    ¡°Dmn, b*tch!¡± The men pulled her up. ¡°How dare you take drugs in Mr. Quincy¡¯s premise!¡±


    Josie slumped to the floor and knelt, hugging one of the men¡¯s legs. ¡°Sir, don¡¯t tell anyone¡­¡±


    Even though Moses had seen many things in his lifetime, he could not help but be amazed by her


    convincing act.


    These men had dealt with too many female drug addicts and had no mercy for them. One of the men


    kicked Josie away and said, ¡°Call the police.¡±


    Josie hissed in pain and gritted her teeth, forcing herself to continue acting. ¡°Don¡¯t¡­ Don¡¯t call the


    police. I


    have criminal records¡­¡±


    ¡°Why did you take drugs when you have criminal records? What an idiot!¡± One of the men grabbed


    Josie by her arm. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you here before.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes gleamed with a n. ¡°I know Mr. Quincy, your boss. If you don¡¯t believe me, ask him!¡±


    The men wavered slightly at her words and exchanged nces. ¡°Who doesn¡¯t know, Mr. Quincy? Don¡¯t


    act like you¡¯re buddies with him.¡±


    ¡°I know him. Honest!¡± Josie kneeled on the floor. Her hair was a mess. She looked at the man


    imploringly. ¡°I knew him since more than ten years ago when he was still a hospital director.¡±


    Josie was unsure, but she had no choice but to utilize this information.


    The guards were stunned and looked at Josie with hesitation and uncertainty.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josic continued, ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth. Ask him if you don¡¯t believe me¡­¡±


    The leader of the guards immediately instructed someone behind him. ¡°Go inform him about this.¡±


    Then, he kneeled and gripped Josie by her cheeks. ¡°B*tch, this ce is worth hundreds of millions. If


    you cause it to be closed down by the authorities, we will make you wish you were never born!¡±


    He shoved Josie aside, but Josie recklessly clung to him and pleaded, ¡°Sir, I won¡¯t do it again.¡±


    Silence followed.


    Ten minutester, the subordinate returned. ¡°Mr. Quincy said to bring her upstairs.¡±

 Chapter 731 Questioning the Past

    Chapter 731 Questioning the Past


    Josie breathed a sigh of relief. She made a gamble and seeded.


    Then, she got up quickly and smiled. ¡°See, I wasn¡¯t lying.¡±.


    Moses wanted to go with her, but someone stopped him. ¡°You can¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. She smiled and hinted, ¡°Mr. Quincy and I are old friends. You can leave first.¡±


    Moses appeared nervous. Although unwilling, he had no choice but to watch Josie leave with those


    men.


    Once they reached the third floor, the noise from the ground floor disappeared. There was only silence.


    One of the men opened a door, revealing Robert seated on a couch. His hair had turned gray, and he


    had a kind and gentle expression.


    The man pushed Josie into the room. ¡°Mr. Quincy, she¡¯s here.¡±


    Josie stood straight. ¡°Please leave. I wish to talk to Mr. Quincy alone.¡±


    The men refused to move until Robert waved his walking stick. ¡°Leave.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Quincy¡­ This woman might be up to something!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s only a woman. What can she do to me? Get out.


    The men had no choice but to close the door.


    After they left, Robert looked at Josie closely before saying. ¡°I don¡¯t know you.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°You should know who I am.¡±


    She was not lying. She had some memories of the people in the hospital when she left it with Paul.


    Her solemn tone prompted Robert to frown. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°You might not remember anything even if I tell you my name, but there¡¯s someone you will remember.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Paul Warren.¡±


    Robert¡¯s expression changed when he heard the name. He no longer looked kind or gentle.


    ¡°It¡¯s been over a decade, and you still remember your old friend. Nostalgic, isn¡¯t it?¡± Josie concluded.


    Robert realized something. ¡°Are you Paul¡¯s daughter?¡±


    Josie did not deny it. ¡°Didn¡¯t I say we were acquainted? You even carried me when I was a kid.¡±


    Robert sneered. Conflicting emotions reflected in his eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect him to raise you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression turned grim


    ¡°It seems you didn¡¯t grow up in Rivodia. Do you know what happened to those who dared to dabble


    with drugs on my premise?¡± Robert¡¯s expression turned fierce and ruthless.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. Besides, it wasn¡¯t a drug. It was only a pack of candy.¡± Josie sat beside Robert and


    continued. ¡°It¡¯s amazing that you can keep drugs out of your nightclub. You maintained a clean


    reputation. like when you were a hospital director. How could I bear to damage your image?¡±


    Robert ignored her ttery. He took the ss of wine from the table before him and gave it to Josie.


    ¡°What are you here for?¡±


    Josie nced at it before shoving it to the floor, causing it to fall loudly. Then, she grabbed the bottle of


    strong liquor on the table and gulped it down.


    Robert watched her.


    She finished the whole bottle and threw it to the floor. ¡°I downed a bottle of liquor as an apology for


    causing a scene at your premise.¡±


    Josie was not good with alcohol but drank it for Paul¡¯s sake.


    Robert guessed her intention and brought another bottle of alcohol, pointing it at her. ¡°Kneel and drink


    this.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie remained in her seat. ¡°Mr. Quincy, how can you be so cruel to an old friend?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll call someone to send you out.¡± Robert seemed displeased with her words.


    Thus, Josie took the liquor bottle from him and replied. I¡¯ll drink this, but you have to answer my


    question.¡±


    This sounds like a losing deal to me.¡±


    ¡°Why did you terminate my father from his position? You can choose whether to answer this. I¡¯ll drink


    this liquor if you do.¡±


    Robert narrowed his eyes. ¡°Miss, it¡¯s so long ago. I can¡¯t remember anything. You don¡¯t have to drink


    anymore. Go home.¡±


    Josie clenched the liquor bottle. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you. You were shocked when I mentioned my father¡¯s


    name.¡±

 Chapter 732 Connection to the Past

    Chapter 732 Connection to the Past


    Robert¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Josie Warren.¡±


    ¡°Josie Warren,¡± Robert muttered and suddenly recalled something. ¡°Paul should never have adopted


    you. He wouldn¡¯t listen no matter what anyone said. That¡¯s what is causing all these troubles.¡±


    His gaze turned ruthless. Josie had a bad feeling about this and immediately ran for the door. However,


    Robert suddenly dragged her back by her hair before she could get out and shoved her to the couch.


    He used his walking stick to trap her there and was incredibly strong despite his age. Josie arched her


    back. in pain.


    ¡°Robert! You were a hospital director, yet you¡¯re now the proprietor of a nightclub. You knew all too well.


    what you did to my father to get to where you are. Do you have no conscience? How dare you try to


    silence me? Argh!¡± Josie shouted.


    Her words infuriated Robert. He tightened his grip on Josie. ¡°You knew things were not easy for me.


    How dare you show up and provoke me? Do you wish to die?¡±


    It was a shocking sight. The man who used to save lives as a doctor had turned into a man without


    regard. for human lives.


    Josie hissed in pain and shouted, ¡°Paul is missing!¡±


    At those words, Robert suddenly loosened his grip. Josie could finally breathe.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Josie sensed the change in his demeanor. ¡°I said he disappeared. I¡¯ve used every means to search for


    him. but was unsessful. Otherwise, I would never havee to you.¡±


    Robert stepped back. He seemed to be thinking.


    ¡°Whye to me? He was dismissed from the hospital more than a decade ago.¡± His face was


    covered with wrinkles.


    ¡°I suspect his disappearance might be connected to what happened then.¡±


    Josie focused on Robert¡¯s face as she spoke and caught an unmistakable sh of panic.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I came to see you. Perhaps you might know who caused him to go missing.¡±


    However, Robert was adamant. ¡°I was a hospital director for ten years and have been in charge of La


    Oriele for another ten years. I understand the workings of both worlds. Don¡¯t even think of trying to trick


    me.¡±


    ¡°I know I can¡¯t trick you. I just hope that you¡¯re not deluding yourself.¡±


    Josie was sure that he knew something. That was why he reacted this way.


    She gradually walked to the door, but someone pushed it open and came in.


    Arnold and a few men entered and stood before the door.


    He had changed into new clothes. The top two buttons on his shirt were left undone, making him


    appear dashing and mature as he stood with his hands behind him.


    One of his men flipped a switch, causing bright lights to flood the room, revealing a disheveled Josie


    before him.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Seeing him. Josie rushed to hide behind him and whispered, ¡°What brings you here?¡±


    Arnold ignored her. He smiled as he walked towards Robert. ¡°It¡¯s been a long time, Mr. Quincy.¡±


    Robert was furious that Arnold interrupted him. He red at Josie and said, ¡°Arnold, youck basic


    courtesy. How dare you show up in La Oricle?¡±


    Arnold nodded and grabbed the bottle of liquor on the table. True, I¡¯mcking in courtesy. I will ept.


    punishment for interrupting your matter.¡±


    He pushed Josie toward the door as he spoke.


    However, Robert narrowed his eyes and snorted. ¡°You think you can leave so easily?¡±


    A group of bodyguards appeared and blocked Josie¡¯s exit.


    ¡°Mr. Quincy, it doesn¡¯t hurt to be merciful sometimes. Arnold got close to Robert, bringing the bottle


    down sharply, hitting Robert¡¯s head with a distinct ¡®bang Liquor sttered all over the ce.


    At the same time, Arnold¡¯s men blocked the bodyguards from entering.

 Chapter 733 Who Is Wayne

    Chapter 733 Who Is Wayne


    Robert was stunned by Arnold¡¯s attack. He touched his head and found blood, prompting him to yell


    furiously, ¡°Arnold! You¡¯re insane!¡±


    Josic, too, was shocked by Arnold¡¯s action. She rushed forward and grabbed his arm to stop him from


    hitting Robert. ¡°What are you doing? He¡¯s an old man. Are you trying to get me into more trouble?¡±


    Arnold pushed Josie away and grabbed another liquor bottle. However, Robert stared in defiance and


    sneered, ¡°Arnold, you have just arrived in Rivodia, so I understand you wish to establish your authority.


    However, you have better not mess with the wrong person. If you mess with me, the higher-ups might


    not intercede for you!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s shirt was partially unbuttoned. Beads of sweat rolled down the exposed skin, revealing firm.


    muscles. He sneered. ¡°No one can stop me from venting my anger.¡±


    He recalled opening the door and seeing Josie¡¯s pitiful form standing before him. The sight of her


    abused and helpless sent fury raging through his body. Nothing could hold him back.


    Suddenly, an older man rushed into the room. ¡°You left a card game halfway and abandoned Wayne to


    save her?¡±


    Arnold remained still. ¡°Mr. Vipera, I came to negotiate coboration with Mr. Quincy. Wayne will -


    understand.¡±


    Robert turned to Mr. Vipera. ¡°Is Wayne here? Good news for me, then. I must inform him about this


    matter. Let¡¯s see who he will side with!¡±-


    Mr. Vipera tried to mediate between them. ¡°Arnold, you were too reckless. How could you anger Mr.


    Quincy? How are you going to sell that batch of goods?¡±


    Arnold threw away the liquor bottle. ¡°He thinks he can make me beg all because he has some


    connections? Dream on.¡±


    Robert mmed his walking stick against the floor. ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay for this!¡±


    ¡°Why should I be scared? I have no parents or family. You, on the other hand, have many


    grandchildren. So, please take my advice and don¡¯t bring trouble on yourself.¡± Arnold waved his hand.


    His bodyguard immediately brought a box to him.


    Then, he ced the box on the table and opened it, revealing stacks of cash.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Are you insane? You thrashed up my ce for this woman?¡± Robert¡¯s face showed a hint of fear.


    ¡°Your medical fee!¡± Arnold took a wad of cash and pressed it to Robert¡¯s face.¡±She¡¯s my woman. You


    have no right to hit her!¡±


    ¡°Your woman?¡± Robert looked at Josie in disbelief. ¡°Is she Summer?¡±


    Summer was the person one immediately thought of at the mention of Arnold¡¯s woman.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Arnold continued to push the wad of cash against Robert¡¯s face. He waved his


    hand at Josic. ¡°What do you want to know? You can ask now!


    Although Josie wanted to avoid their dispute, she could not let go of this chance to learn about Paul.


    Thus, she stepped forward and said, ¡°I want to know why you terminated my father.¡±


    Robert was unwilling to answer her question. ¡°Mr. Vipera, will you let this br*t threaten me?¡±


    Mr. Vipera looked at Arnold and saw he had no intention of backing down. He made eye contact with


    Arnold, imploring him to stop.


    Robert took a deep breath before answering. ¡°He conducted surgery. The patient was¡­¡±


    He could not bring himself to continue and turned to Mr. Vipera. ¡°I can¡¯t say it.¡±


    ¡°Cut the cr*p!¡± Arnold tilted Robert¡¯s chin with a wad of cash.


    ¡°The patient¡­ was Wayne¡¯s elder sister. She didn¡¯t survive the surgery.¡±


    The answer prompted Arnold to frown and loosened his grip on Robert. Josie asked, ¡°Who is Wayne?¡±


    Silence followed. No one spoke.


    Josie was anxious and asked a different question, ¡°Did my father make a mistake during that surgery?¡±


    Robert replied frankly, ¡°No! But the higher-ups were furious, so your father had to go.¡±


    So that¡¯s what happened¡­

 Chapter 734 What Goods Are Those

    Chapter 734 What Goods Are Those


    ¡°Are you happy now?¡± Robert yelled. He looked distressed.


    Arnold let him go and closed the box of cash before handing it to him. ¡°Mr. Quincy, I was mistaken.¡±


    Robert red at him. ¡°No one had ever hurt me in all my years in La Oriele. Arnold, how dare you do


    this to me? I¡¯ll make you pay for what you did!¡±


    However, Arnold smirked. ¡°Even so, business still has to go on. I¡¯ve brought goods from Wavery.


    Please name your price.¡±


    Robert sat on the couch and looked at him contemptuously. ¡°I have no reason to continue business


    with you.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Arnold grabbed a bottle of liquor.


    Robert frowned nervously. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Arnold smiled and filled a ss with liquor. ¡°I know La Oriele doesn¡¯t do this kind of business, but if


    people discovered your business outside, you would be doomed.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, I haven¡¯t done anything yet. But what do you think will happen if I send out this clue?¡±


    Arnold and Mr. Vipera exchanged nces.


    ¡°All I need to do is send out a name list, and the authorities wille knocking.¡±


    Robert panicked. ¡°Arnold, are you threatening me into doing this business with you? Wayne will never


    forgive you for this!¡±


    Arnold slowly sipped some liquor and clicked his tongue. ¡°Worstes to worst; I¡¯ll have to drag


    Wayne into it. After all, I¡¯m doomed anyway and have nothing to lose.¡±


    Mr. Vipera suddenly spoke, ¡°Have you forgotten what you promised, Wayne?¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°Of course not. It¡¯s not because I¡¯m unwilling to care for him when he¡¯s old. Unfortunately, his


    subordinate. is dooming me.¡± Arnold¡¯s gaze turned cold.


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy! You¡¯re utterly insane!¡± Robert stood up with the help of his walking stick. He headed for


    the door but turned around halfway there and pointed at Josie. ¡°This woman is a ticking time bomb.


    You¡¯re dooming yourself by getting involved with her!¡±


    Seeing Robert pointing at her, Josie held Arnold¡¯s arm and said coquettishly. ¡°Arnold, he scolded me


    again.¡±


    Josie¡¯s bravery and wittiness amused Arnold. He turned to Robert and sneered, ¡°Mr. Quincy, I¡¯ll pretend


    nothing happened today. Furthermore, I¡¯ll return another day to apologize properly and make it up to


    you. I hope we can be considerate of each other. What do you think?¡±


    Those words fanned Robert¡¯s already burning fury.


    He stormed away in anger.


    Mr. Vipera pointed at Arnold resentfully, but before he could say anything, Arnold said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but


    can you help me to take care of Wayne?¡±


    Mr. Vipera was exasperated but could do nothing except leave with others.


    Once everyone had left, Josie immediately let go of Arnold¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Did you study acting in a drama school?¡± Arnoldughed despite his annoyance.


    ¡°What are the goods you mentioned?¡± Josie¡¯s expression was solemn, She had heard their


    conversations and had a hunch about what they were saying.


    Arnold¡¯s smirk gradually faded. He lit a cigarette and replied, ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Josie stood up immediately. She grabbed a cushion and threw it at him. ¡°You¡¯re insane!¡±


    Arnold remained still and did not seem to care about her outburst. ¡°They can¡¯t catch me without


    evidence.¡±


    Josie felt anxious and did not know what to say. She had always thought Arnold was onlypeting


    with Dexter in Wavery. She did not expect him to dare to go this far.


    Arnold took a drag of his cigarette and looked at her through the smoke. ¡°Josie, you have seen it


    yourself. Too many people are pressuring me that I don¡¯t have a choice.¡±


    Josie shook her head and asked, ¡°Who is this Wayne you were talking about?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never met him, but he is influential. I became his follower two to three years ago.¡±


    Josie realized then that they had been dragged into a severe disaster.

 Chapter 735 Wayne Was an Alias

    Chapter 735 Wayne Was an Alias


    ¡°Are you scared?¡± Arnold snuffed the cigarette. ¡°It¡¯s not toote to get out now. I¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    She would have been lying if she said she was not afraid. Even the memory of the scene from before


    made her shudder in fear. However, she could not back out.


    ¡°I can¡¯t leave. I have to find Paul.¡±


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold narrowed his eyes. ¡°You heard what they say. Wayne is connected to what happened to Paul


    more than ten years ago. Do you know what kind of person he is? Don¡¯t tell me you wish to investigate


    him?¡±


    Josie was confused. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with investigating him? He did something shady, so shouldn¡¯t he be


    afraid of me?¡±


    Arnold sneered and held the back of her head before leaning closer to her. ¡°You think can threaten


    him? Even I can kill you any time.¡±


    They were so close that Josie could smell alcohol and cigarette on him. She frowned and nearly


    choked from the strong smell.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you kill me, then?¡±


    Arnold paused briefly. Then, he pushed her away in resignation. ¡°You should leave. You should go back


    to Dexter and continue being Mrs. Russell.¡±


    ¡°I will leave.¡± Josie¡¯s expression was calm. ¡°But only after I¡¯ve found Paul.¡±


    She grabbed her bag, pushed open the door, and left.


    Moses had been waiting outside all this while and nearly went mad from worry. Seeing Josie, he


    rushed to her and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, are you all right? I heard someone was bleeding from their


    head¡­¡±


    Josie pulled out a tissue and dabbed the blood stain. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Arnold showed up and saved me.¡±


    As he got closer, he noticed a blood stain on Josie¡¯s wrist. He held his breath and asked, ¡°What¡¯s


    this¡­¡±


    Moses was stunned. Knowing Arnold, Moses found the matter suspicious no matter how he thought


    about it. ¡°What should we do next?¡±


    The sky was dawning, Josie turned around at looked at La Oriele¡¯s architecture. ¡°Can you inform the


    staff in Wavery for me? Tell them to investigate a person called Wayne. If possible, find out about his


    family.¡±


    Moses answered in the affirmative and left to get it done.


    Meanwhile, Josie checked into a hotel near La Oriele. The whole situation was unclear at the moment.


    It seemed she would not be returning to Wavery any time soon.


    She was exhausted after a busy day. Nowadays, she could only sleep when she was thoroughly


    drained. Despite being tired, she slept fitfully and only woke up in the afternoon. Coincidentally, her


    phone rang. It was a call from Dexter.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was charming and sensual when he lowered his tone.


    ¡°Yes, did you find anything?¡± Josie¡¯s voice was a little hoarse from sleep. She did not ask how he knew


    she had woken.


    On the other hand, Dexter paused briefly before answering, ¡°I can¡¯t find anything significant for now.


    Wayne is most likely an alias.¡±


    ¡°Arnold said he never met Wayne. This man controls Robert, proving he is no ordinary person.


    Furthermore, he forced a hospital director to resign and made a doctor go missing. He must have


    considerable authority.¡±


    Josie analyzed speedily.


    ¡°I understand. But things will get messy whenever it affects a higher-up¡¯s interest. Moreover, you¡¯re in


    Rivodia. I don¡¯t have much influence there.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice turned solemn with concern.


    Although he allowed Josie to investigate, he did not want her in danger.


    Josie understood his concern. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Dexter, so don¡¯t worry. I only wish to find Paul. As for the rest,


    I¡¯ll find a way to escape.¡±


    ¡°How are you nning to get away from them? Are you going to rely on Arnold?¡±


    Josie fell silent upon hearing him.


    After a moment, she asked, ¡°You knew aboutst night?¡±


    Moses must have reported everything to him.


    Dexter did not respond.


    Josie softened her tone. ¡°I had escaped then, but Arnold suddenly showed up.¡±

 Chapter 736 I Miss You Too

    Chapter 736 I Miss You Too


    Hearing no response from Dexter, Josie repeated, ¡°Dexter, are you there?¡±


    ¡°Would¡­ you fall in love with Arnold?¡± It was the first time Dexter had asked such a question.


    Josie was stunned. At the same time, she sensed the loneliness of a man who was isted at the and


    realized that he had fears like any ordinary person.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Why did you ask?¡±


    Dexter fell silent at her question. Josie sensed his cold and intimidating demeanor even though she


    could not see him.


    ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t, Dex. I only care about Paul right now.¡± Josie sighed.


    ¡°In that case, why did you get Moses tomunicate with me instead of asking me yourself?¡±


    Dexter went straight to the point.


    Josie was briefly confused before wanting tough. She did not expect him to be bothered about such


    a matter. ¡°Why? Do you miss me, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter hung up. Two minutester, he sent her detailed information about La Oriele, including a


    message. ¡®Be careful, and don¡¯t act recklessly.


    Josie read the information for some time. It detailed La Oriele¡¯s businesses that were against. thew.


    While La Oriele looked beautiful andw-abiding on the surface, it secretly carried out prostitution and


    ck-market trading. The amount involved was shocking.


    It was no wonder that Arnold sought Robert¡¯s help to clear some goods.


    Josie messaged back. ¡®I miss you too.¡±


    Unbeknownst to her, Dexter, who was sullen, suddenly smiled upon seeing those words.


    Heather happened to enter the office at this moment and was stunned to see his smile.


    However, Dexter was alert and realized someone had entered. He saw who it was and withdrew his


    smile. ¡°You¡¯re here early.¡±


    Heather smiled. ¡°Yes. I bought dessert during lunch break. Want to try it with me?¡±


    It was still break time. She entered the office with cakes, smiling so cheerfully that Dexter could not


    refuse her.


    In some ways, they could be considered friends outside of working hours.


    ¡°You like dessert a lot,¡± Dexter observed Heather, seated on the couch, suddenly recalling hist


    suspicion toward her in Rivodia. It was because she had eaten a birthday cake downstairs at the hotel.


    Heather smiled and ate a spoonful of cake. ¡°Yes. My old life was difficult. I needed desserts to cope.¡±


    She spoke casually as if her past no longer bothered her.


    Dexter closed his eyes and concealed his emotions.


    ¡°Dex, does Mrs. Russell like desserts?¡± Heather asked suddenly.


    Dexter looked at her and saw her smiling at him as usual. ¡°Not really.¡±


    Heather nodded vaguely and offered him her cake. ¡°Want to have a taste?¡±


    Dexter did not like desserts and did not ept her offer. ¡°Did Summer give you trouble after losing that


    project?¡±


    Heather paused briefly before shaking her head. ¡°No¡­ But Dad was furious and gave many the


    projects to my brother.¡±


    Her brother was Zach Olsen.


    Dexter unconsciously interlinked his fingers on the table. ¡°Your brother has always been undependable.


    Is your father okay with that?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? But Laura is with him. She¡¯s intelligent and willing to help Zach with work. Dad


    recently held her in high regard.¡±


    Dexter arched his eyebrows. ¡°Laura?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Heather brought half of a small cake and had nearly finished it.


    ¡°Seems like she¡¯s doing much better in the Olsen family nowadays.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Heather appeared innocent that Dexter could not detect any sign of pretense. He smiled. The Olsen


    family likely kept her out of the shady matters involving their family.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. He stood up and continued, ¡°If you like desserts, I¡¯ll ask my chef to bring some for you.¡±


    ¡°That will be wonderful.¡±

 Chapter 737 Kneel and Prostrate Yourself

    Chapter 737 Kneel and Prostrate Yourself


    Josie rested in the hotel during the day and received Arnold¡¯s call that night.


    He went straight to the point. ¡°Follow me if you want more clues about Paul.¡±


    Josie had no idea what he was going to do. Still, Arnold was the only person she could rely on in


    Rivodia.


    He told her toe to La Oriele.


    Thus, she rushed there and saw Arnold dressed in bright clothes, looking like a male model. He was


    eye-catching as he stood at the entrance with a group of subordinates behind him. They each held a


    box.


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°Which hostess caught your eye? Are you going to redeem her for yourself?¡±


    Arnold ced a hand on her shoulder. ¡°I hit Robert with a liquor bottle yesterday, so I came to


    apologize.¡±


    Josie stood still and listened.


    He continued, ¡°Since you started the incident, you must be there too.¡±


    Josie turned around to leave, but Arnold grabbed her arm and smiled. ¡°Please y along. I¡¯ve told him


    you¡¯re my woman. We need to apologize properly today, no matter what.¡±


    Josie was confused. ¡°You knew this would happen. Why didn¡¯t you control yourself yesterday?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to, but no one tried to stop me.¡±


    ¡°I did!¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    Speaking of acting, Josie had perfected her skill through numerous practices since marrying. Dexter.


    Thus, she could y a role despite not having time to prepare.


    She took off her jacket, revealing a flowy dress beneath. Then, she immersed herself into her role and


    held Arnold¡¯s arm before heading in with him.


    ¡°Hubby, you must apologize to Mr. Quincy properly. What happened yesterday was your fault.¡±


    Arnold was delighted. ¡°Call me ¡®Hubby¡¯ again.¡±


    Josie red at him.


    They arrived at arge private lounge where Robert was already seated in the key seat. A few other


    people were also in the room, including Mr. Vipera.


    Robertined unhappily when they entered. ¡°What kind of attitude is this? You asked to meet.


    How dare you arrivete?¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I hear you, Mr. Quincy. It is indeed our fault.¡± Arnold stepped forward and pulled out a chair. He did not


    sit down but poured himself three sses of liquor. The liquor was as clear as water.


    ¡°I¡¯ll drink these as an apology to you.¡±


    He finished all three sses immediately.


    Someone eximed, ¡°Mr. Carter has an admirable alcohol tolerance level.¡±


    Robert snorted. ¡°Your little tricks won¡¯t work on me.¡±


    His head was bandaged. Josie was pleased to see him injured.


    She took a ss of wine and smiled as she approached him. ¡°We were wrong yesterday. That¡¯s why


    Arnold and I came to apologize today. You can deal with us as you deem fit.¡±


    Robert regarded her with distrust. ¡°Who knew Paul¡¯s daughter is Arnold¡¯s lover? Does Paul know?¡±


    His harsh words angered Josie, but she forced herself to calm down. Then, she replied in a low tone,


    ¡°Isn¡¯t my father still missing? I¡¯ll break up with Arnold once he returns.¡±


    The crowdughed. Arnold alsoughed along, but hisughter felt different from others. On the other


    hand, Robert looked at Josie with disdain. ¡°You have gotten into our circle and heard too much. I¡¯m


    afraid leaving is not an option for you.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. ¡°In that case, can you guide us on what to do? Arnold and I are listening.¡±


    Robert lit a cigar and took a drag before turning to Arnold. ¡°Kneel and prostrate yourself. Then, I will


    forgive you for what happened yesterday. I will also take in your batch of goods.¡±


    Josie stood up immediately and looked at Arnold with concern.


    Arnold¡¯s smile faded slightly. ¡°Mr. Quincy¡¯s request sounds quite reasonable. All I need to do is kneel to


    secure all these benefits.¡±

 Chapter 738 Bumping into an Old Friend

    Chapter 738 Bumping into an Old Friend


    Robert blew a puff of smoke. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you refusing to kneel?¡±


    Arnold remained silent. He stood straight and appeared grim.


    Robert continued to goad him. ¡°After your father was imprisoned, I heard you kneeled and epted


    Wayne as your father, promising to fulfill filial duties toward him. You prostrated yourself so humbly


    before him, but why won¡¯t you do the same for me?¡±


    It was Josie¡¯s first time hearing about Arnold¡¯s past. Her expression turned grim. Still, knowing his past


    did not lower her opinion of him. However, she understood how humiliating it was for him when Robert


    revealed his past to everyone in the room.


    ¡°Whatever Wayne gives you in Wavery, I can provide the same to you in Rivodia!¡± Robert became


    agitated and threw his walking stick at Arnold. It hit the back of his hand, leaving bruises.


    Mr. Vipera picked up the walking stick, gave it to Arnold, and persuaded, ¡°We understand it¡¯s normal for


    a young man to be hot-tempered, so all you need to do is apologize to Mr. Quincy, and the matter will


    be resolved.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold looked down and epted the walking stick. He circled the table and gradually came. to stand


    before Robert.


    Robert had a gleeful expression.


    ¡°I was reckless and acted out of hand. He held the walking stick but did not give it to Robert. ¡°However,


    I had prostrated and sworn allegiance to Wayne. How could I do the same for you? Wayne would be


    furious if he knew about it.¡±


    A brief and tense silence followed. Robert scolded, ¡°You¡¯re nothing but Wayne¡¯s pet!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression darkened threateningly at those words. He seemed on the verge of losing. his


    temper. Josie stepped forward, but Arnold stopped her. Then, he got down on one knee. and looked up


    at Robert.


    ¡°Mr. Quincy, Wayne has only one daughter, but you have many offspring. Who do you think Wayne will


    punish if he hears those words from you? Will it be you or me?¡±


    Robert pursed his lips. ¡°How dare you threaten me?¡±


    ¡°How would I dare? If I¡¯m not mistaken, your son seeded you as a doctor in Rivodia. What will


    happen if I frame him with the same medical malpractice as Paul?¡±


    Robert was bursting with fury. ¡°Arnold! This is Rivodia, not Wavery. You have no power to do this!¡±


    ¡°Since I came to Rivodia, what makes you think I would be scared of anything? You can try if you dare.¡±


    Arnold gave up all pretense of amicability. He handed the walking stick to Robert and continued, ¡°Don¡¯t


    forget how your leg became crippled in the first ce.¡±


    Those words intimidated everyone into silence.


    After a tense silence, Mr. Vipera tried to smooth things over. ¡°That¡¯s enough. We are all in the same


    boat, so why don¡¯t we try to get along? I¡¯ll propose a toast. May we all find sess in our businesses.¡±


    Arnold returned to his spot. After brooding for a moment, Robert had no choice but to raise his ss.


    The incident ended there.


    Then, Arnold and Robert negotiated about Arnold¡¯s batch of goods over the dining table. Arnold


    reduced his price by ten percent out of sincerity.


    Josie stayed with them for hours but did not obtain any useful information. Thus, she whispered to


    Arnold, ¡°I¡¯m going to the washroom.¡±


    Arnold nodded.


    Josie breathed in fresh air as soon as she left the room. She finally let out a sigh of relief.


    However, she caught the waiters¡¯ conversation as she neared a corner. ¡°I heard Mr. Bastille from


    Bastille Group will being here today.¡±


    ¡°You heard that too. Seems like he will be here to negotiate a business coboration.¡±


    ¡°Goodness. I¡¯ve heard a lot about him. I wonder if we will have a chance to see him today.¡±


    ¡°I think he¡¯s here. Let¡¯s take a peek.¡±


    Josie stood stiffly on her spot. It can¡¯t be that coincidental. Why do I keep bumping into someone I


    know everywhere?


    She covered her face with her hand and searched for Mr. Bastille of Bastille Group on Web. As


    expected, a familiar name showed up. She clenched her teeth and returned to the private lounge


    straightaway, not daring to linger outside.

 Chapter 739 A Mysterious Man

    Chapter 739 A Mysterious Man


    Josie returned to her seat beside Arnold and asked softly, ¡°Have you finished negotiating?¡±


    He frowned. ¡°Why is your face so pale? You look as if you have seen a ghost.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s scarier than a ghost.¡± Josie continued to urge him, ¡°Can we leave??


    Arnold sensed something was wrong with her. ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to investigate Paul? We haven¡¯t asked


    anything.¡±


    Josie nced at the people in the room, noting their fierce expressions. ¡°I can see you are all scared of


    Wayne. You probably won¡¯t reveal anything even if I ask.¡±


    Arnold leaned toward Mr. Vipera and said, ¡°See, my lover is obsessed about finding her father. She has


    been with me for many years, so I must at least help her. Can you give us some information about her


    missing father?¡±


    ¡°What happened back then?¡±


    Mr. Vipera regarded Josie. He was present yesterday and knew what she wanted to know.


    ¡°Arnold, I¡¯ve warned you not to be too involved with a woman.¡±


    Arnold nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll only be asking for your help this time.¡±


    Mr. Vipera fell silent and considered the matter. Then, he looked at Josie and said, ¡°I can¡¯t reveal much.


    All I can say it the past matter has been resolved, and Wayne has no reason to abduct him. At least I


    didn¡¯t receive any information about his abduction.¡±


    Josie was surprised by his answer. In other words, Paul¡¯s disappearance had nothing to do with


    Wayne.


    She wanted to ask another question, but Arnold stopped her. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Vipera.¡±


    They stayed there for another half an hour for Arnold to finalize the business deal. Then, he held


    Josie¡¯s hand and headed outside, only to bump into Robert at the door. He looked a lot older under the


    dim light.


    ¡°Miss,¡± he said, ¡°have you never considered that you¡¯re the reason why your father is missing.¡±


    Josie freed her hand from Arnold. ¡°What do you mean? Please exin.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. It looks like you still haven¡¯t discovered your past. That¡¯s why you¡¯re rushing around.


    like a headless chicken.¡±


    Robert¡¯s words seemed to hint at something, fanning Josie¡¯s suspicion. She plopped herself beside


    Robert and poured him a ss of wine. ¡°Do you mean you know about my past?¡±


    Robertughed and waved his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t ask me. I don¡¯t know anything. You fainted before the


    hospital -door years ago, and Paul treated you out of kindness. Unfortunately, you had amnesia and


    couldn¡¯t


    remember anything. Still, he took care of you for a month and decided to adopt you.¡±


    ¡°At the time, I told him not to adopt you because you¡¯re jinxed. He refused to believe me, and now,


    cmity befell him.¡±


    Robert¡¯s words were vague and nonsensical. Arnold felt staying was pointless and whispered, ¡°Josie,


    let¡¯s go.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    But Josie refused to move. She asked, ¡°What kind of person was my father then?¡±


    Robert pondered before answering. ¡°He was young and stubborn, yet freaking kind.¡±


    Josiemitted those words to memory before leaving with Arnold.


    Arnold frowned upon noticing her dazed expression and held her gently. ¡°Robert¡¯s words are


    untrustworthy. Don¡¯t take them to heart.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ he was right about a few things. My father is stubborn but kind.¡±


    Those few words convinced Josie that he was telling the truth.


    ¡°Arnold, how did Robert hurt his leg?¡±


    ¡°I heard Wayne turned the hospital upside down after his sister passed away. Everyone at the scene


    was punished. Your father was kicked out of Rivodia while Robert crippled his leg.¡±


    After that, Robert was dragged into the underworld and was forced to resign as a hospital director. He


    had no choice but to work for others.


    Josie sneered, ¡°I¡¯m really curious about who Wayne is.


    Arnold grabbed her urgently upon hearing her. ¡°Enough! Stop meddling in this. I¡¯m sending you back to


    Wavery tomorrow!¡±

 Chapter 740 Ex-boyfriend

    Chapter 740 Ex-boyfriend


    ¡°I¡¯m not returning yet,¡± Josie protested. ¡°I must continue the investigation and confirm whether they had


    anything to do with Paul¡¯s disappearance.¡±


    Arnold frowned at her determination. ¡°How are you nning to go against them?¡±


    ¡°I have evidence on La Oricle¡¯s illegal dealings.¡±


    Veins throbbed on Arnold¡¯s forehead! He immediately covered her mouth and pushed her against the


    wall, whispering. ¡°Are you insane? How could you talk about that here?¡±


    Josie whimpered and replied softly, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with what I said? What they did is against thew.


    Your Sky Pce must have many illicit dealings too. So, don¡¯t anger me, or I¡¯ll get you arrested!¡±


    She tried to intimidate him, but Arnold grinned and replied, ¡°If you ask around, you will discover that


    every nightclub has something shady going on. On second thought, you don¡¯t have to ask anyone. You


    can ask Dexter if he has done anything illicit.¡±


    Josie fell silent at the mention of Dexter and put on a pitiful expression.


    Arnold felt heartbroken and jealous as he looked at her. ¡°Do you want the police to arrest him?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Josie answered honestly. ¡°He must have good reasons for doing that.¡±


    Arnold was angry yet amused. Heughed and pinched her cheek. ¡°You and your double standards.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie looked up and saw something that scared her out of her wit.


    A man with gold-rimmed sses turned toward a corner, surrounded by a group of people. He had a


    dignified yet indifferent demeanor. As he was about to nce in Josie¡¯s direction, Josie immediately


    pulled Arnold by his bow tie, forcing him to bend toward her. She pressed her face against his chest.


    When Morgan looked her way, he could not see her as Arnold¡¯s body had concealed herpletely.


    Morgan soon turned elsewhere and left.


    Arnold snorted and pressed his cool lips against her face. His gaze darkened instantly, and his heart


    beat like a drum.


    After two minutes, Josie confirmed Morgan had left before pushing Arnold away. She hugged her


    knees. and gasped for breath.


    I almost died of suffocation!


    Arnold stood still. He saw her panicked expression and teased, ¡°Why is your heart beating so rapidly?


    Did you see someone? Are you afraid of someone in Rivodia?¡±


    -Josie ignored him and could not be bothered to exin that her elevated heartbeat was due to fear.


    She headed outside and retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve told you. It¡¯s scarier than a ghost.¡±


    Arnold followed her. His voice was clear despite the non-stop music on the first floor. ¡°Could it be your


    ex-boyfriend?¡±


    Josie stood straight and refused to respond.


    Arnold nced at the surroundings and caught a glimpse of a dignified figure leaving the nightclub. He


    could only see the person¡¯s side profile, but it was enough to confirm his suspicion. ¡°He¡¯s really your


    ex- boyfriend.¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°Can you shut up?¡±


    She did not notice the brief, bitter smile on his face.


    Why do other men have significant rolesat some point in her life except me?


    It gives me no choice but to ept that fate works on a firste, first-served basis. Unfortunately, I¡¯m


    always a step toote.


    That was enough to cause me to lose out on everything.


    Someone approached them when they arrived at the entrance. It was Scar. He nced at Josie and


    greeted, ¡°Yo! Mrs. Carter, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Josie retorted in exasperation. ¡°I¡¯m not Mrs. Carter.¡±


    Scar appeared at a loss before going to Arnold¡¯s side and reporting some matters. Hearing him, they


    walked further away, discussing something.


    Josie felt it was pointless to hang around and decided to leave. She walked along the road and called


    Moses. to pick her up. Unbeknownst to her, a tall figure slowly approached her from behind and shoved


    her phone to the ground. He covered her mouth and dragged her away before she could scream.

 Chapter 741 He Would Kill Her

    Chapter 741 He Would Kill Her


    The person covered Josie¡¯s eyes and mouth before dragging her into a car. The car traveled smoothly,


    and she heard bustling noises outside. However, the noises gradually quiet down, prompting her to


    panic and struggle to break free. Suddenly, someone swung a stick and hit a bony part of her body,


    sending her reeling in pain.


    She did not doubt that the person would kill her.


    Josie could not figure out who in Riv¨®dia would kidnap her and want her dead.


    Could Robert be holding a grudge against me? No, he and Arnold finalized the business deal. He has


    no reason to bring trouble on himself.


    Who could it be?


    Josie was confused as she pondered about it. At the same time, her fear intensified.


    ¡°Woo¡­ Woo¡­¡±


    She had no idea how long the car traveled before stopping. The driver conversed with someone before


    the door opened. Then, a man restrained Josie and dragged her out of the vehicle toward somewhere.


    Another door opened, sending cool, damp air against her face. Josie suddenly found herself shoved to


    the floor. She groaned in pain.


    A person said, ¡°Remove her gag. You wouldn¡¯t want her to suffocate.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Someone pulled out the cloth stuff in her mouth. She gasped for breath and sensed someone untying


    her blindfold. Suddenly, a bright light assailed her sight. She struggled to adjust and screamed at the


    men leaving her behind, ¡°Who instructed you to abduct me? Do you know who I am?¡±


    ¡°Save your breath!¡±


    One of the men responded indifferently. Josie only had enough time to ascertain the two men¡¯s height


    before they closed the door.


    Silence followed.


    Josie stood


    up and observed her surroundings. It looked like the inside of a warehouse, with all sorts of things piled


    everywhere. There were a fewrge sealed boxes. They did not indicate what was inside,


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She examined one of them closely. Fortunately, she had her nail done before attending the meeting


    with Arnold. Thus, she tore the tapes with her nails and opened the box. It was filled with bottles of


    liquor and some high-end cigarettes.


    She opened a few boxes and found the same kind of things in them. Then, she opened more boxes in


    other areas and found pills wrapped in stic bags. She looked closely and guessed they were


    recreational drugs usually found in nightclubs.


    It was not illegal to possess these things, provided they did not exceed the legal limit. However, a


    dozen. boxes of such things were in this warehouse, far beyond the amount permitted under thew.


    These people are daring.


    My abductor must be connected to La Oriele.


    But who could it be?


    It was cold inside the warehouse. Josie was underdressed, causing her to shiver in the cold. She had


    no way of knowing how much time had passed. As she was about to lose consciousness, she suddenly


    heard a sudden noise. Someone opened the warehouse door.


    Josie squinted at the bright light and saw a short and thin man enter before gradually heading her way.


    He did not bother to hide his intention.,


    ¡°Who are you¡­.¡± Josie was fully awake and tried to back away.


    ¡°B*tch, I¡¯ve seen you a few times. You have a nice figure. The man touched her waist and continued in


    his disgusting voice, ¡°Let me have fun with you.¡±


    Josie struggled with all her might and resisted his assault. She shouted, ¡°Touch me, and you¡¯ll die!¡±


    ¡°You will die soon anyway. Why should I be scared of you?¡± The man grew daring and trapped her


    beneath him.


    Josie screamed. Her voice rang throughout the warehouse, but no one came to her rescue.


    She could not see the man¡¯s face, but she sensed he was not tall, meaning he was not one of the men


    who abducted her.


    She fought against him. At the same time, she reached for her waist and felt around until her fingers.


    touched something cold. The item gave her a sense of security.


    Josie pulled it out and swiftly pressed it against the man¡¯s head. ¡°You still dare to touch me?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± The man stiffened immediately. He did not expect Josie to have a gun.

 Chapter 742 It Was Due to Lust

    Chapter 742 It Was Due to Lust


    Lust faded from his body. All he cared about was not to die.


    Josie continued aiming the gun at him, cing her finger on the trigger. She asked, ¡°Who sent you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I came here by myself!¡± The man was scared out of his wits, fearing Josie would pull the trigger. All


    his arrogance from before disappeared without a trace: Even his voice trembled.


    She did not believe him and pushed the gun barrel harder against him.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯m telling the truth! I came here on my own due to lust!¡±


    Josie was still suspicious and grabbed the chance to stand up. She recalled all her abductors¡¯ efforts to


    kidnap her and guessed it was not just for sexual assault,


    Thus, this man was telling the truth.


    ¡°Who ordered you to kidnap me?¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The man was terrified. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m only a lowly thug in La Oriele. I don¡¯t even know who the


    higher-ups are.¡±


    ¡°How do you know I¡¯m here? You said you¡¯ve seen me before!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen you a few times in La Oriele. L¡­ I thought you were pretty.¡±


    Josie pushed the gun barrel against his forehead. ¡°What are these goods for?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know. They are probably for the nightclub. I¡¯m not in charge of this.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s in charge then?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Vipera¡­¡±


    Josie realized something when she heard that name.


    In the end, someone in La Oriel arranged my abduction, but why? Arnold is still in Rivodia. Even if it¡¯s


    to threaten us, there¡¯s no need to go to such an extent.


    Josie finally figured it out. Unless it¡¯s ordered by someone of a higher level than Mr. Vipera!


    But who could it be? Could it be Wayne, the person they talked about?


    ¡°You dare to assault the woman they abducted. It seems like you have a n


    The man answered tremblingly, ¡°People brought here never left this ce. That¡¯s why I dare¡­¡±


    That exins it. Those people left me here to die.


    Josie shoved the man away. ¡°Scram!¡±


    The man was indignant, but Josie held a gun. Thus, he had no choice but to stumble out of the


    warehouse. Surprisingly, he remembered to lock the door before he left.


    Josie put the gun away. Her hand that held the gun still trembled visibly.


    She was thankful for Dexter¡¯s foresight. He ordered someone to give her a gun for self-defense.


    Josie slowly sat on the floor and hugged her knees. She figured out the reason behind everything that


    had happened.


    They abducted her to keep Arnold under control.


    Her abductors must have thought she was important to him.


    Arnold also figured this out around the same time.


    He led his subordinates to leave La Oriele, only for Moses to stop them at the door. Moses said,


    ¡°Arnold! We will never forgive you if Mrs. Russell is harmed in any way!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression turned grim as he stood with his hands behind his back. He had just discovered


    that Josie was missing but quickly figured out why.


    ¡°Bring your men and leave,¡± Arnold responded briefly.


    Moses¡¯ expression twisted in fury. ¡°How could you say this?¡±


    ¡°I said, leave. I¡¯ll bring her back for you! With that, Arnold led his subordinates and walked bodyguards


    before leaving in their cars.


    The weather was gloomy, and rain fell unceasingly. Likewise, Arthur¡¯s expression was as equally grim.


    His car sped along the road and reached a remote yard on the outskirt of Rivodia. He exited the


    vehicle. and proceeded on foot.


    A few men guarded the warehouse door. They stood up when they saw Arnold. ¡°Mr. Carter.¡±


    ¡°Why is the security so strict today?¡± Arnold¡¯s smile did not meet his eyes.


    The men guarding the ce exchanged nces. One of them replied, ¡°We received a new batch of


    goods. They are important to Wayne.¡±


    ¡°I want to see them.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid that¡¯s not possible. Please don¡¯t make things difficult for us.¡±


    ¡°What goods are they that I¡¯m not even allowed to see them?¡± Arnold asked casually, looking at the


    men from the corner of his eye.


    ¡°They are important. We can¡¯t reveal anything.¡±

 Chapter 743 I’m Getting You Out of Here

    Chapter743I¡¯mGettingYouOutofHere


    Arnold vaguely understood what the guards were saying. As he turned around, a loud noise came from


    inside the warehouse. It sounded like something banging against the door.


    He nced up.


    One of the guards exined, ¡°There are rats in the warehouse.¡±


    Arnold stepped back and said to the man beside him, ¡°Scar, I remember you¡¯re skilled at catching rats.


    You should go in.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Carter,¡± Scar answered immediately.


    However, the guards blocked him from getting close. ¡°Mr. Carter¡­


    Arnold¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°It seems my words mean nothing in Wayne¡¯s territory. No one bothers


    to heed me.¡±


    His words were imbued with irony, prompting the guards to shudder in fear.


    Suddenly, footsteps sounded behind him. ¡°Arnold.¡±


    He turned around and saw Mr. Vipera walking toward him as a subordinate held an umbre for him.


    Arnold looked down slightly. ¡°You can tell Wayne that I¡¯m not doing this task anymore. They won¡¯t even


    let me enter a warehouse.¡±


    ¡°Throwing a tantrum again?¡± Mr. Vipera looked at Arnold and continued, ¡°You¡¯re too rash. You should


    go home and calm down.¡±


    Arnold stood still and refused to move.


    ¡°Wayne wants what¡¯s best for you. You keep messing things up over a woman. Don¡¯t forget that your


    father is still in prison, and you haven¡¯t brought down Dexter.¡±


    Arnold remained silent.


    The person in the warehouse made noises in protest.


    After some time, Arnold finally spoke, ¡°I¡¯m disappointed in Wayne for doing this.¡±


    Mr. Vipera smiled and patted his shoulder. ¡°You have to endure it and fulfill your


    duties.¡±


    Those words signified the end of their conversation. Arnold was not in a position to ask any more


    questions.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    He clenched his fist repeatedly. In the end, he had no choice but to leave with Scar. Scar was


    confused. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we save her?¡±


    Arnold did not respond.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Vipera instructed, ¡°Move her once the rain stops.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Vipera!¡±


    1/9


    Josie pressed herself against the warehouse door and listened to the conversation outside. However,


    she could only catch some of it. All she knew was that Arnold and Scar had left. Then, Mr. Vipera left


    soon after. Only the guards remained outside.


    Josie was crestfallen. They talked about moving me elsewhere. But where? Paul is still missing. Am I


    going to die in Rivodia?


    She held back tears and hugged the gun, forcing herself to stay awake through the night.


    ¦£


    Still, she fell asleep. In her dream, Dexter discovered she was in danger and powered through all


    obstacles to rescue her. He reached out to her and said, ¡°Jo, I¡¯vee to save you.¡±


    Dexter appeared/bright as the sun, lighting up the dark corners.


    The dream felt so real that Josie squinted. Her eyes hurt as if bright lights shone on them. She blearily


    woke up and saw someone had opened the warehouse door. Furthermore, a man walked against the


    light, heading her way.


    ¡°No¡­ Stay away¡­¡± Josie mumbled instinctively.


    Her body was on the verge of copse.


    A tall man came to her and embraced her tightly. ¡°Josie, you¡¯re safe now.¡±


    His familiar voice woke Josie from her dream. She instinctively knew it was real and opened her eyes,


    seeing a stern face above her. His head was stained with blood, and he had a threatening aura around


    him.¡±


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Josie was stunned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you leave?¡±


    Didn¡¯t he give in to them?


    Arnold wore a ck windbreaker and a hat. He looked grim as he said, ¡°I¡¯m getting you out of here.¡±


    He carried Josie in his arms and walked firmly out of the warehouse.


    Josie¡¯s heart thumped nervously. She found it hard to believe that he had returned.


    ¡°What will you do if Wayne asks you about me?¡±


    Arnold stepped into the rainy night, holding Josie closely. Josie noticed two men unconscious by the


    road. They were the guards who watched the warehouse.

 Chapter 744 The Most Dangerous Place

    Chapter744The MostDangerous ce


    ¡°It¡¯s toote to turn back now. I¡¯ll worry about the consequencester,¡±


    It was rare to see Arnold with such a stern expression. He looked intimidating.


    Josie was stunned. All this while, she thought Arnold pretended to like her so that he could take


    advantage of her. Yet, he braved this rainy night and risked his future and life to save her.


    He had shown her so much kindness that she suddenly did not know how to face him.


    Arnold carried Josie into his car and started driving. She asked anxiously, ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    He nced at her and noticed the bruises on her arms and legs. ¡°How did you get these injuries?¡±


    Josie covered up her arms instinctively and looked down. ¡°A thug came in the middle of the night. He¡­


    he wanted to¡­¡±


    She could not bear to continue. Even recalling the incident filled her with fear.


    Arnold/understood what she meant. He steered the car and asked, ¡°Did you see his face?¡±


    ¡°It was too dark to see, but I recall he was short.¡±


    Josie looked outside and realized they had traveled a long distance. She gripped the door handle.


    ¡°Arnold, I don¡¯t want to leave Rivodia yet.¡±


    Arnold sneered. ¡°That wasn¡¯t my n.¡±


    Josie was astonished.


    Arnold parked the car at La Oriele¡¯s back door. It was nearly dawn. There was no one around except a


    few janitors.


    He took Josie upstairs to the third floor. Then, he opened the door to a presidential suite and locked it


    securely after they entered.


    Josie was anxious and scared. ¡°Have you lost your mind? They are looking for us. How could you


    come here?¡±


    However, Arnold smiled and replied, ¡°Judging from our situation, the most dangerous ce is safest for


    you.¡±


    He went to the window and pulled the curtains together. ¡°Wayne might investigate me, but he has no


    reason to suspect Robert.¡±


    Josie was stunned by the revtion.


    She saw how disheveled Arnold looked. Thus, she grabbed tissues from the table and wiped his hands


    for him. She smiled bitterly. ¡°Are you that desperate to earn my favor? Why did you keep saving me?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s blood felt hot to the touch, reminding her of the life¨Cand¨Cdeath situation from a moment ago.


    He reached for her hair with his clean hand and yed with her strands. After some time, he finally


    replied, ¡°It¡¯s so hard to earn your favor.¡±


    Josie instinctively retreated from him and entered the bathroom to clean up.


    Arnold was gone when she came out after a bath.


    He must have many matters to attend to.


    Josie calmed down. She lost her phone, so she picked up thendline phone in the room and hesitated


    about calling Dexter. She ultimately decided against it.


    Wayne must be furious that she had escaped and likely started tracing her. As such, she could not


    make this phone call and drag Dexter into this threat.


    Thus, she had no choice but to suppress her longing for him.


    Perhaps things might not have worsened to this extent if he were here.


    Despite her trepidation, no one broke into the suite or bothered her the following day. However, Arnold


    called her on thendline phone. ¡°I¡¯ve asked someone to send you an attendant¡¯s uniform and makeup.


    You should disguise yourself before leaving the suite to avoid triggering suspicion.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie understood his instruction.


    She did as he said and stayed hidden in this dangerous ce.


    She dressed as an attendant and left her room before entering an elevator. As the elevator door was


    closing, she suddenly noticed a small hand trying to stop it.


    Josie felt nervous and immediately rushed to stop the door from closing.


    The little girl was small and was around four to five years old. She wore jeans and had neatlybed


    long hair.


    She rushed into the elevator and looked at Josie with big eyes. Her big eyes filled with gratitude.


    ¡°Thank you, miss!¡±


    Josie nced outside the elevator. ¡°Are you here alone?¡±


    The girl answered obediently, ¡°I¡¯m looking for my father.¡±

 Chapter 745 Whose Daughter Is She

    Chapter745WhoseDaughterIs She


    Father? Men whoe to this ce are most likely scoundrels.


    Josie sighed quietly. The child looks too young to be roaming alone. How can her parents allow this?


    She was worried that something might happen to the child. Thus, she smiled and offered, ¡°Where is


    your father? I¡¯ll bring you to him.¡±


    The girl considered seriously before standing on tiptoes and pressing the button for the first level of the


    basement. ¡°My father is here. Thank you for apanying me, miss!¡±


    ¡°What a sweet girl.¡±


    The elevator was narrow and felt unsafe. Josie noticed the girl seemed afraid and instinctively tugged


    her shirt as they rode the elevator. She was exceedingly quiet for a young child.


    Josie¡¯s heart softened. She recalled the baby she miscarried. Then, she stooped to the girl¡¯s level.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your mother? Did youe here alone?¡±


    The girl clenched her fingers and nodded. She was very well¨Cspoken for her age. ¡°Everyone said my


    father is busy. That¡¯s why I secretly escaped to bring my father home so he could rest.¡°.


    Josie frowned with worry for the girl. ¡°You must be careful. Your father would be sad if bad guys


    kidnapped you.¡±


    The girl gave a puzzling reply. ¡°I have a phone. Furthermore, someone would save me if I were in


    danger.¡±


    Josie frowned in confusion.


    She caressed the girl¡¯s rosy cheeks and advised, ¡°Don¡¯t do something like this again.¡±


    The girl nodded. Loneliness written all over her face.


    The elevator soon arrived at the first level of the basement. Josie held her out hand and nced at the


    surroundings. It was strangely silent. ¡°Do you know where your father is?¡±


    The girl held Josie¡¯s hand and led her in a direction.


    The ce was silent and bright. There were antiques on disy wherever they walked, reminding


    Josie of museums. Each item was worth enough money for an ordinary family to live off for their whole


    lives.


    Josie¡¯s heartbeat quickened.


    The girl paused and pushed open the door with some difficulty. A tall and burly man stood before the


    large floor¨Cto¨Cceiling window, making an international call on his handphone. The girl looked at him


    and shouted, ¡°Daddy!¡±


    Josie saw that the man was middle¨Caged and wore a mask that obscured his face.


    Then, she heard the man speaking through a voice¨Caltering device. ¡°You are to sell them when the


    market rate stops rising.¡±


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    The girl beside her shouted, ¡°Daddy!¡±


    She was excited and happy.


    However, Josie suddenly noticed Mr. Vipera standing beside Wayne.


    She immediately found a spot to hide before they saw her.


    Why is Mr. Vipera here? Who is that masked man? He seems to be the girl¡¯s father. Is he also Wayne?


    Her heart thumped nervously as she guessed.


    Mr. Vipera suddenly looked at the doorway and saw the girl standing there. He loosened his grip on the


    folder in his hand, causing it to fall with a loud ¡®smack.


    ¡°Ms. Dalton?¡±


    The masked man gradually turned around. It was hard to see his expression under the mask.


    Wayne picked up the scattered documents and bowed to the masked man. ¡°I¡¯ll investigate what


    happened at the residence.¡±


    The masked man did not say anything but waved to dismiss Mr. Vipera. His gaze darkened.


    Still, the girl ran to his side. ¡°I missed you, Daddy!¡±


    The man did not move.


    The girl sat beside him and tugged his hand, chattering about things she felt interesting.


    However, the masked man did not respond and ignored the girl.


    The girl seemed used to it. She was sad but did not show it.


    Soon, a group of well¨Ctrained bodyguards ran into the room.


    The masked man walked before the bodyguards and ordered, ¡°Who¡¯s responsible for guarding my


    daughter today? Step out by yourself.¡±

 Chapter 746 Losing Fingers

    Chapter746Losing Fingers


    The bodyguards stood frozen. Their fingers trembled as they were intimidated by the tone.


    ¡°Daddy! I secretly sneaked out myself! It¡¯s not their fault!¡± Witnessing the scene, the little girl


    desperately tried to break free to run toward the masked man.


    However, the man tossed a sharp dagger to the few who had stepped forward, heedless of the girl¡¯s


    cry. ¡°Settle it yourselves ording to the rules.¡±


    ¡°Sir¡­¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Mr. Vipera nced at the man¡¯s expression and gave the bodyguards a look. ¡°If you don¡¯t do it now, it¡¯ll


    be more than just cutting off fingers.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart was in her mouth. She averted her gaze when she saw the little girl being brought into the


    room, with tears streaming down her face as she watched through the window.


    ¡°No! Daddy!¡± The girl¡¯s heart¨Cpiercing cry came forth from inside the room.


    The next second, the sturdy men let out an anguished moan. Their fingers were cut off


    Josie¡¯s heart pounded. She froze as a pool of blood came into sight. The scene of blood sttered


    across the ground was chilling.


    After that, the room door was opened. Standing at the spot, the girl stopped crying and stared fixedly at


    the familiar yet strange man.


    The masked man received a handkerchief from Mr. Vipera and carefully wiped the dagger, looking


    gentle, and calm as if his ruthlessness just now was unreal.


    ¡°Get someone to clean the ce. I¡¯m tired. Don¡¯t bother me in the next few days.¡±


    The handkerchief was callously thrown onto the ground.


    Then, he walked up to the girl and crouched down, attempting to caress her long hair but was pushed


    away by her.


    The man was not irritated. ¡°See, I won¡¯t punish you for sneaking out, but the ones who look after you


    will suffer.¡± With no harsh tones or stern words, the man used the gentlest manner, leaving a severe


    wound in the girl¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Do you still dare to sneak out next time?¡±


    The girl was dumbstruck.


    The man gently wiped off her tears and uttered, ¡°My daughter shouldn¡¯t tear.¡±


    With that, he stood up and left.


    Mr. Vipera held the girl in his arms tofort her while sending the man off. ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Dalton.¡± It¡¯s


    indeed Wayne Dalton!


    Josie didn¡¯t dare to breathe. She had never expected to bump into Wayne by sheer coincidence,


    although she couldn¡¯t see his countenance clearly.


    She had the urge to ask him about Paul or if he knew about Paul¡¯s incident. However, she knew if Paul


    fell into his hands, the possibility of Paul surviving would be grim.


    Wayne walked out of the basement with his underlings. At the closest point, he was only three feet


    away from Josie. Josie didn¡¯t dare to move at all as she caught a whiff of the scent of pine on him.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Arnold?¡± He asked in a hoarse, low voice.


    ¡°We¡¯re still searching for him. He and that woman are still in the town.¡± His underling answered.


    ¡°He must be tired of living. I want him alive!¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    Their conversation reminded Josie that Arnold had offended Wayne. Once they found Arnold, he


    wouldn¡¯t just be losing fingers like the bodyguards but could die!


    Josie was a bundle of nerves. She had to think of a way to help Arnold escape!


    As Wayne and his men walked away, their voices became faint. ¡°Dexter is still closely monitoring the


    project. It¡¯s getting troublesome.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s just a conceited dog. How annoying!¡±


    Josie was startled to hear Dexter¡¯s name being mentioned. She almost wanted to follow them to


    eavesdrop on the conversation. However, they entered an elevator and disappeared. Everything


    became calm again. Only the lingering bloody smell in the air reminded her of what had just happened.


    While Josie was about to leave, someone yelled, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    A shlight beam shot at her. She instinctively covered her eyes with her hand as her heart raced.


    ¡°Who is there?!¡±

 Chapter 747 A Close Call

    Chapter 747 A Close Call


    It was a muscr, sharp-eyed security guard. As he approached Josie, thetter took a deep breath


    and pretended calm. Fortunately, she was dressed in a staff uniform.


    ¡°I¡¯m a staff here.¡± She looked straight into the guard¡¯s eyes, striving to remainposed.


    ¡°All staff should know the basement is a forbidden ground.¡± The security shone his shlight on her


    face while examining her cold-bloodedly.


    Luckily, Josie had put on makeup to disguise herself, so the guard couldn¡¯t see her actual appearance.


    ¡°Your name?¡± He asked.


    Josie remembered the name tag on her uniform. ¡°J-Jane.¡±


    The guard moved the shlight to her chest. Indeed, the name on the name tag matched.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°To send something over.¡±


    The guard nced behind Josie and asked suspiciously. What is it?¡±


    It¡¯s something important. I can¡¯t tell you.¡± Josie pressed her lips.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± The guard scoffed. ¡°You better confess now before it¡¯s not toote. This is for your own good.


    If exposedter, the consequence will be more than just dying.¡±


    Josie clenched her fists. ¡°I came to the basement to carry out Mr. Dalton¡¯s order. I¡¯m not telling you for


    your own good too.¡± She staunchly mentioned Wayne, which made the guard hesitate briefly, knowing


    Wayne had indeede today. However, he remained doubtful. ¡°Mr. Dalton has left already. Why are


    you still here?¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°I was about to leave, but then you stopped me.¡±


    The guard moved his shlight away as he was slightly convinced but remained vignt. Josie


    continued, ¡°You better let me go already. You wouldn¡¯t want to annoy Mr. Dalton and end up like the


    bodyguards. today who lost their fingers, would you?¡±


    Her tone was cold, and with the incident that had actually happened, the guard waspletely


    convinced. He waved his hand impatiently and said, ¡°Quickly leave.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie remained calm. Before leaving, she purposely blurted, ¡°I can¡¯t believe someone senseless like


    you can be a security guard.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Only after entering the elevator did Josie heave a sigh of relief. Her back was drenched with sweat.


    Just as she thought everything was over, she saw a familiar figure walking toward her the moment she


    stepped out of the lift. The figure was skinny and short. The way he walked looked familiar, too, like the


    intruder the other day.


    Josie was stunned. A chill ran down her spine.


    That person had a picture in his hand and was inquiring with a staff.


    Arnold¡¯s as most likely one of hers or


    Just then, the person walked forward and lifted his head. He almost saw Josie, but someone suddenly


    covered Josie¡¯s mouth from behind and dragged her to the corner.


    ¡°Mmm!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me!¡± When the person released Josie, she turned around and was bbergasted to see Arnold.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Arnold wore a hat and a mask, revealing only his dark eyes. ¡°That¡¯s what I should ask you. Why were


    you spacing out just now?¡±


    While Arnold asked the question, the man walked past the corridor. Josie only dared to answer Arnold.


    after the man walked away. ¡°It¡¯s him.¡±


    It was an ambiguous response, but Arnold understood. His eyes turned ferocious. Without saying


    anything else, he grabbed Josie and returned to the room.


    Because they were registered as guests, the staff did not inspect their room, so they were safe.


    ¡°Where did you go?¡± Josie removed her mask immediately after entering the room.


    Arnold narrowed his eyes dangerously. ¡°I¡¯ll send you away tonight. I¡¯ve underestimated Wayne. As long


    as you¡¯re here, he can definitely find you. If that happens, I won¡¯t be able to protect you.¡±


    Send me away?

 Chapter 748 I’m Waiting for Your Divorce

    Chapter 748 I¡¯m Waiting for Your Divorce


    Josie panicked. ¡°Have you heard of Wayne¡¯s actions in the basement today?¡±


    Arnold was shocked to hear that. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I saw him in a mask today, with a young girl calling him ¡®daddy. Does he have a daughter?¡± She spilled


    the beans calmly, but it was Arnold¡¯s turn to lose his cool.


    He grabbed her arms and carefully scrutinized her, only releasing her after no wounds were found.


    ¡°Wayne usually dresses up as another person when he appears in public. Sometimes, he could be an


    old. man; sometimes, he would appear strong and young. Only Mr. Vipera knows what he looks like.¡±


    Arnold leaned against the windows indifferently. ¡°The girl is his adopted daughter.¡±


    ¡°Adopted, huh?¡± Josie muttered. ¡°Why would he do that? Does this mean that she¡¯s his soft spot?¡±


    The moment Arnold heard that, he shot a meaningful look at her. ¡°You learned quite a lot while you


    were with Dexter, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie froze upon hearing that. She didn¡¯t know that she had started resembling him.


    ¡°Why do you send me away suddenly? I told you-I¡¯m not leaving with Pop.¡± She changed the topic.


    ¡°Josie, things were not as simple as you thought. After all that we¡¯ve been through, he¡¯s still nowhere to


    be found. I don¡¯t think we can find him any time soon. Why don¡¯t you return to Wavery? At least Dexter


    is there he can protect you while you look for clues.¡±


    He analyzed the situation for her thoroughly. Josie understood that staying alive was more important


    than anything else.


    But¡­


    ¡°What about you? Are you leaving with me?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t. Now that I¡¯ve arrived at this point, I have to go back and apologize to him.¡±


    What?


    what he did to his bodyguards today. Everyone lost a finger. If you go back after all you¡¯ve done to him,


    he¡¯s going to kill you!¡± she eximed worriedly as she walked to him in an attempt to change his mind.


    He took another puff of the cigarette. ¡°If that happens, will you take revenge for me?¡± he asked in his


    usual yful tone.


    Josie nudged him anxiously. ¡°If you dare to go back, I won¡¯t even collect your corpse back!¡±


    He smiled chillingly. ¡°Trust me, Josie. I won¡¯t die so easily.¡±


    She felt her heart tighten upon hearing that.


    It seemed that Arnold had everything arranged. Once night had fallen, he disguised himself and took


    her across the busy streets to leave La Oriele.


    The rain pelted down continuously. As they shared an umbre, she said in a low voice, ¡°Arnold, you


    have toe back alive for me to repay this.¡±


    Raindrops slipped through his fingers as he held the handle of the umbre. ¡°Of course. I¡¯m waiting for


    your divorce.¡±


    This time around, Josie didn¡¯t chastise him anymore. She trudged ahead with a heavy feeling in her


    heart.


    They reached the backdoor of La Oriele. A burly-looking bodyguard had been waiting for them. ¡°Mr.


    Carter,¡± he greeted reverently when Arnold got closer.


    ¡°Hugh, how have I been treating you?¡± Arnold asked.


    ¡°Extremely well, sir,¡± Hugh replied solemnly.


    ¡°I will remember the favor today.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hugh turned around and walked away. When he was some distance away, he waved to the rest of the


    bodyguards. ¡°You guys are hungry, aren¡¯t you? I ordered something for everyone. Find a ce to rest.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, sir!¡± They followed him under a shelter and started gobbling down the food.


    Meanwhile, Arnold and Josie got into a car that drove away. ¡°When we reach the highway, someone


    will pick you up.¡±

 Chapter 749 I Will Die if She Dies

    Chapter 749 I Will Die if She Dies


    Josie was about to say something, but when she noticed his damp hair, she was suddenly at a loss for


    words.


    The handover person wasn¡¯t there when they reached the highway. Instead, a fleet of cars awaited


    them, gleaming under the car headlights.


    The ck cars were parked neatly next to each other, looking solemn and stern.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold slowly breathed out and attempted to turn around. However, they were blocked from the back as


    well.


    The well-trained bodyguards dressed in suits ced their hands in front of their bodies as they took


    their standing positions impassively.


    ¡°Arnold!¡±


    A tall and burly man appeared from the car in the middle and stood quietly under the umbre held by


    his men.


    Josie instantly recognized him. It¡¯s Wayne!


    Arnold opened the car door, but she held his sleeves behind worriedly.


    He shook his head and got out of the car. Under the rain, his facial feature looked even more charming.


    ¡°Mr. Dalton, please let her go!¡±


    Wayne stood with his hands in his pockets. His voice traveled across the rain firmly.


    ¡°Arnold, I can¡¯t believe you also betrayed me.¡±


    ¡°It was never my intention.¡± Arnold replied as he held the car door.


    Mr. Vipera blurted, ¡°As long as you hand her over, Mr. Dalton will drop the matter. Don¡¯t make the


    wrong choice, Arnold!¡±


    However, Arnold gritted his teeth stubbornly.


    ¡°I knew she was Dexter¡¯s wife. You¡¯re too immature, Arnold. Giving up everything for her-is it worth it?¡±


    he asked slowly.


    ¡°She¡¯s different. If she dies, I will die too!¡±


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Mr. Vipera cautioned anxiously.


    Arnold straightened his back and looked at Wayne straight in the eye.


    He was in a difficult position. After all, Wayne had helped him when he was at his lowest moments.


    Hence, Arnold¡¯s actions were equivalent to biting the hand that once fed him.


    Josie understood the situation. She took a deep breath before getting out of the car.


    ¡°Mr. Dalton, judging from the reverence people have for you, I¡¯m sure you must be a magnanimous


    person. Arnold is being tricked by me; he has never intended to go against you, so please let him go!¡±


    Arfold eximed in a low voice.


    However, Wayne ignored herpletely and directed his words to Arnold. ¡°When we first met, I knew


    you were a cold-blooded person. I never would have imagined you falling for a woman one day. It¡¯s too


    disappointing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do anything as long as you let her go!¡±


    ¡°You said the same thing over the past few years. It seems your words can¡¯t be counted on anymore.¡±


    Wayne snorted coldly. ¡°If you want me to let it go, think of a way yourself.¡±


    With that, he turned around.


    The bodyguards took a step forward, saying in unison, ¡°Sorry in advance, Mr. Carter!¡±


    Josie quickly walked to Arnold. ¡°What are they doing?¡±


    He pushed her behind him. ¡°ording to Mr. Dalton¡¯s rules, we can leave as long as we survive this.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart palpitated wildly. There were at least two dozen people. It was quite impossible for Arnold


    to win the fight.


    The first wave of attack started before she could grasp the severity of the situation. The bodyguards


    threw their umbres away and charged at Arnold, directing their attacks on his vitals. Arnold avoided it


    agilely and broke the attacker¡¯s wrist with a crack, followed by a kick after that. The bodyguard was


    sent flying backward, but the onught of attack never ceased. All Arnold could do was avoid their


    attacks and try tond some blows on them.


    The sound of bodies shing against one another reverberated in the rain.


    Josie grabbed his shirt. In that precarious situation, she let out a sob.


    ¡°I can¡¯t possibly leave, Arnold!¡±

 Chapter 750 This Woman Will Be the Death of You

    Chapter 750 This Woman Will Be the Death of You


    Wayne had no intention of leaving Arnold alive. He chose the best of fighters that day. No matter how


    skillful Arnold was, he couldn¡¯t defeat them alone.


    Some of the bloodnded on Josie as the fight continued. Arnold¡¯s muscles were pumping with blood,


    and his eyes were red-rimmed. Though he was injured, he finally defeated the second round of people.


    Nevertheless, another group swarmed up, not giving him any opportunity to rest at all.


    ¡°If you hand me in, you can still survive this!¡± Josie yelled.


    ¡°If I do that, you¡¯ll die!¡±


    Right at that moment, a thick stick crashed into his back. A thud was heard, but whether it was from


    Arnold¡¯s bones or the stick was unclear. He let out a grunt and kneeled on the floor with one knee as


    blood leaked from his mouth.


    Fear gripped Josie¡¯s heart tightly. She couldn¡¯t hold herself back anymore; she took a ck gun from


    her waist, loaded it up skillfully, and shot the attacker in the thighs.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    ¡°Taking advantage of his preupation, how sneaky!¡±


    Mr. Vipera was surprised to see Josie taking action. ¡°That girl actually has a gun!¡±


    Meanwhile, Wayne arched his eyebrows as he murmured, ¡°Interesting.¡±


    Right after the shot, Josie¡¯s hands started trembling vigorously. She had never fired a shot before. This


    was the first time, and it managed to hit the target.


    ¡°Arnold, I¡¯ve told you before-this woman will be the death of you. Now that she doesn¡¯t follow the rules,


    don¡¯t me me for being ruthless,¡± Wayne announced loudly.


    With that, the bodyguards took out guns and aimed at them.


    Arnold got back to his feet arduously and blocked Josie behind him. He held her hand and forced her to


    put down the gun.


    The bodyguards had been working for Arnold. They were hesitating, determining whether they were


    really going to shoot him.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? If you shoot right now, Wayne will make sure you live a prosperous life. With


    that, Arnold wiped the blood from his lips.


    ¡°Mr. Carter¡­¡± They exchanged nces with each other and put the guns away. Once again, they


    swarmed over to him and decided they would use their fists instead.


    Arnold tried to defend himself with all his might, but after a few more rounds, he hadpletely


    exhausted himself. With one knee kneeling on the floor, he was surrounded on all corners.


    Finally, Wayne raised his hands, signaling the rest to stop.


    Josie quickly walked to Arnold and took a protective stance. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Wayne got closer and looked at them from above.


    Mr. Dalton, can¡¯t you let her go?¡±


    Wayne crouched and took the gun from Josie¡¯s hands. He looked at it and said, ¡°This gun has a good


    range but with less recoil. It¡¯s very suitable for women. Judging from the model, I assume Dexter from


    Wavery gave it to you. Is that right?¡±


    Josie¡¯s body trembled in the rain, but she red at him without replying.


    When he was ying around with the gun, she noticed a light scar around his wrist that couldn¡¯t be


    faked.


    ¡°You¡¯re a smart woman, knowing I can¡¯t touch you if you have Arnold on your side.¡± Wayne chuckled


    coldly and turned to Arnold. ¡°Arnold, I told you she would be your downfall sooner orter.¡±


    Arnold held his wound where the blood was pouring out from. ¡°She¡¯s still Dexter¡¯s wife. If anything


    happens to her, it¡¯s going to cause huge trouble.¡±


    His words seemed to hit Wayne¡¯s weak spot. Wayne took the gun with a darkened expression and


    instructed. ¡°Send them to Southlink first.¡±


    A few bodyguards walked forward and lifted Arnold away while Josie followed behind them.

 Chapter 751 You Already Have a Husband

    Chapter751YouAlreadyHaveaHusband


    Southlink seemed to be where Wayne was staying, well¨Cequipped with the best surgeons in Rivodia.


    As soon as Arnold arrived, he was sent for treatment instantly.


    It was a busy night. Josie stayed with him the entire time, wiping sweat off his face and feeding him the


    prescribed medicine.


    During the brief moments when he gained consciousness, he begged Wayne to let Josie go.


    Each time she heard that, she felt like a dagger had been pointed at her back.


    After the critical period, Josie was brought by the servants to the shower. When she returned, Wayne


    sat in the room with her gun in his hands.


    She narrowed her eyes at him. ¡°Mr. Dalton, if you take this gun, it shows that you¡¯re also taking the


    troubles that ensued. Are you sure?¡±


    He pointed the gun at her. ¡°You already have a husband, yet you still flirt with Arnold. Looks like you¡¯re


    not a decent woman.¡± D


    Josie couldn¡¯t be bothered to exin the situation to him. Instead, she fearlessly walked. forward, even


    with the threat of the gun being pointed at her. ¡°It¡¯s my honor to make ment work for me.¡±


    The gun was at her throat, but she was sure he wouldn¡¯t fire it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have any space for a woman, Mr. Dalton? You¡¯ve been enjoying wealth and for years. Isn¡¯t


    there anyone who catches your eye?¡±


    Josie¡¯s brown eyes reflected courage and calmness as she looked at him.


    Through the mask, Wayne stared at her intently. ¡°This trick of yours might work with. Arnold, but not


    me.¡±


    It was not a good position to be held at gunpoint. Josie felt the reflex to retch, but she still replied, ¡°If


    you want to kill me, at least wait until he¡¯s up.¡±


    He tightened the trigger. ¡°I don¡¯t need his approval to kill you.¡±


    Josie forced herself to stay calm despite slightly trembling.


    However, he never pulled the trigger. Hence, she knew that her assumptions were right.


    ¡°Arnold won¡¯t work for you anymore if I¡¯m dead on your hands. I know you need him.¡±


    you¡¯re alive, I have a million ways to make life harder than death.¡±


    With that, he left with his arms behind his back. It was at that moment Josie noticed how his hands


    seemed to show that he was a young man. The color of his skin tone was unable to be covered up.


    When Arnold woke up in the evening, Josie was blocked by Wayne outside while they had a


    conversation.


    She leaned against the door anxiously. After a while, Mr. Vipera finally opened the door, making her fall


    into the room.


    She instantly ran to Arnold. ¡°Are you feeling better? Are you okay?¡±


    Wayne looked at them indifferently. ¡°Remember your promise.¡±


    After he left, she held Arnold¡¯s hands. ¡°What did you promise him?¡±


    A forced smile appeared on his pale face.


    ¡°You know he won¡¯t let me go unless I have something for him in return.¡±


    Her grip tightened guiltily. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Arnold. I¡¯m sorry,¡± she apologized with a quaver.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to cry about. You were so bold when you fired that shot.¡± He still had the capacity to


    make jokes.


    ¡°Stop talking about that¡­ She trembled as she remembered that moment. ¡°What¡¯s next for LIS?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s gaze became vacant. ¡°Mr. Dalton won¡¯t allow you to leave. You might have to stay here for a


    while.¡±


    After hearing he was fine, she heaved a sigh. Right after that, a surge of despair flooded her.


    She was getting fearful from all that happened. All she wanted at that moment was to safely return to


    Dexter.

 Chapter 752 We Are Both Married

    Chapter752WeAreBothMarried


    She took a deep breath and pretended to be fine. ¡°It¡¯s okay as long as we¡¯re fine.¡±


    Nevertheless, Arnold saw through her thoughts in an instant and smiled bitterly. ¡°Let¡¯s wait. for a few


    more days. I¡¯ll think of ways to get you out of here.¡±


    Josie held his hand soothingly. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t want to get you into further trouble,¡±


    He caressed her hands without replying.


    Every move from Josie was being monitored by Wayne. The maids even followed her to the bathroom.


    After two days of that, she was annoyed.


    When she was taking a walk one day in the gardens, she suddenly realized that the mansions. were


    linked together¨Cthe entire area was likely to be Wayne¡¯s. At the same time, she could. hear the voice of


    a child nearby.


    After paying attention to it, she noticed that the girl was also living there.


    Usually, the bodyguards would send her home at around five in the evening. Then, the sound. of the


    piano could be heard. It was Moonlight Sonata, which Josie had once learned before.


    Sheughed. I wonder if it¡¯s considered good luck or bad luck to be learning such an advanced piece at


    that age.


    After practicing piano, the girl would y in the garden with the apaniment of maids.


    Josie asked Arnold tentatively, ¡°What¡¯s the name of the child Wayne adopted?¡±


    Arnold was lying on a soft mat on his belly, revealing the terrifying wounds on his back.


    ¡°Ruth.¡±


    ¡°Why did he adopt her?¡±


    Arnold was silent for a moment before replying, ¡°No one knows. I¡¯ve met her a few times. She¡¯s very


    intelligent and calls me by my first name.¡±


    Josie nodded absent¨Cmindedly and passed the sliced apples over.


    He didn¡¯t eat them. Suddenly, he asked, ¡°Josie, isn¡¯t this quite nice? It feels like only two of us are left in


    the world.¡±


    When Josie heard that, she looked at him vigntly. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Arnold took a bite of the apple, a sour expression painting his face, but he didn¡¯t exin himself.


    She frowned and turned to wash the cutlery. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s good. This is imprisonment.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    There was a different definition of joy and despair for everyone. Something that was happy for him was


    torture for her.


    Hence, he didn¡¯t argue with her.


    ¡°Arnold, let me remind you¨Cboth of us are married.¡±


    Josie put the fruit knife back to the holder. The thud sounded like it was from the judge executing their


    final sentence.


    I must be out of my mind to think that marriage was holding her back from being with me. I thought she


    must¡¯ve liked me! Arnold thought.


    Josie remained immobile in the room for a while. When she opened the door, she saw a small figure


    leaning against the pir. The little figure hid herself like a startled creature.


    Josie¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Ruth?¡± she asked tentatively as she took a step forward.


    Ruth backed away defensively, looking as though she didn¡¯t know who Josie was.


    Since Josie was wearing makeup the other day, it was understandable that Ruth couldn¡¯t recognize


    her.


    Hence, she lowered herself into a squat and continued, ¡°Don¡¯t you remember? I brought you back to


    your daddy that day.¡±


    ¡°Oh! You¡¯re the kinddy!¡± Ruth finally remembered.


    ¡°Why are you here alone?¡± Josie cocked her head yfully.


    ¡°I heard Arnold was injured. I wanted to visit him, but they didn¡¯t let me. So I sneaked out here.¡±


    Josie looked around. Indeed, no one else was there, and they were shielded by some walls.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. He¡¯s a lot better now.¡±


    ¡°Are you his girlfriend?¡± she asked curiously, with the yful mind of a child.


    Josie froze and shook her head, but her gazended on Ruth¡¯s smartwatch.

 Chapter 753 Other Imprisoned Women

    Chapter753OtherImprisonedWomen


    ¡°Is this the phone you mentioned?¡±


    Ruth followed Josie¡¯s gaze and waved her watch. ¡°Yeah! I use this to contact the bodyguards.¡±


    Suddenly, her voice faltered. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for them¡­¡±


    Josie knew how traumatic it would be for a young child to witness that violence.


    She caressed Ruth¡¯s head and asked tentatively, ¡°I lost my phone. Can I make a call with yours?¡±


    She assumed Ruth would not agree, but to her surprise, she handed the watch over. Josie looked


    through the watch thoroughly. There were no hidden microphones. Well, I don¡¯t suppose Wayne would


    be so sick as to monitor a child like that. And he wouldn¡¯t have thought that I could use this.


    She trembled hopefully and quickly dialed a number, praying internally that Dexter would pick it up.


    After three rings, the call ended.


    Taken aback, Josie rang a few more times. Finally, the call connected, but a woman answered, ¡°We¡¯re


    not interested in loans, thank you.¡±


    With that, she hung up before Josie could even speak.


    Her mind went nk upon hearing that. Why is she always picking up Dexter¡¯s private phone?


    She grasped her watch in her hands, overwhelmed by her emotions and thoughts. The sufferings she


    had been through were stuck in her throat, having nowhere else to vent them out.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Josie?¡± Ruth tugged on her sleeves, seeing her in a trance.


    ¡°No worries. I¡¯ll just make another call.¡±


    Josie tried to convince herself that Dexter was always busy and that it was natural for Leanne. to


    answer his phone.


    This time around, she called Moses. The call was picked up almost instantaneously.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± he piped vigntly.


    Tears flooded Josie¡¯s eyes upon hearing the familiar voice. ¡°Moses, it¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°My gosh, Josie!¡± he eximed, followed by a loud thud. It seemed like he had just fallen from his bed.


    ¡°We finally heard from you! How are you? How¡¯s everything?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t have the time for a lengthy exnation. ¡°Not good. I¡¯m stuck at a ce called. Southlink.


    We can¡¯t get out of here, and I can¡¯t tell you much at the moment.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. When you and Arnold went missing, we instantly reported to Mr. Russell. He flew


    into a rage and sent someone over. They should be on their way now. Mr. Dalton will have to let you


    go. There¡¯s no doubt about that,¡± Moses exined quickly.


    However, his words had no calming effect on Josie. ¡°Where¡¯s¡­ Dexter?¡±


    It was never her intention to drawparisons. Still, such words couldn¡¯t cheer her knowing how


    Arnold was willing to sacrifice himself for her.


    What the hell is Dexter doing right now? Isn¡¯t he worried about me?


    After a slight pause, Moses replied, ¡°Mr. Russell has an urgent project to deal with. But I¨CI believe he


    will be here as soon as he can!¡±


    Josie closed her eyes and hung up the phone after saying, ¡°Wait for me outside!¡±


    Then, she bent down and put the watch back on Ruth. ¡°Thanks a lot, Ruth. Promise me to keep this a


    secret, will you? It will be our little secret.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ruth nodded obediently. ¡°Promise!¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡±


    Just when Josie was about to leave, she suddenly asked, ¡°Are you thinking of leaving here, Josie?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know what to reply. After all, Ruth was Wayne¡¯s daughter.


    ¡°I know the way out. I can show you,¡± she said in her childlike voice. There are other women. trapped


    here. I brought them out too.¡±

 Chapter 754 I Know You Want to Leave to Find Your Father

    Chapter754IKnowYouWanttoLeavetoFind YourFather


    The thunder rumbled loudly.


    Josie immediately covered Ruth¡¯s mouth and scanned the area around them. After confirming that no


    one was around, she let out a breath of relief.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Josie asked. ¡°Are you saying that other girls ended up here like me?¡±


    Ruth nodded. ¡°Plenty. They were all my dad¡¯s girlfriends. But some didn¡¯t make it out. because they


    were too dumb.¡±


    Josie felt a shiver down her spine as she imagined their ill¨Cfated endings. ¡°Why did you help them?¡±


    ¡°They looked pitiful. They were covered in wounds like you. Ruth¡¯s eyes were ssy with emotion,


    revealing her deep concern.


    ¡°How about this? Can youe back here tomorrow at the same time to find me? I need some time to


    think.¡±


    Ruth nodded in understanding. She turned away and walked towards the fence, taking the brick away


    and crawling out of there to where she belonged.


    Josie¡¯s head was filled with a whirlwind of thoughts. She knew she shouldn¡¯t be too trusting of anyone,


    but Ruth was only a five¨Cyear¨Cold girl. What schemes could she be capable of?


    When Josie returned to the room, Arnold tried to get up using his crutches. ¡°Where did you go?¡± he


    asked.


    Josie marched over to support him. She changed the subject, saying, ¡°Won¡¯t the Olsens be mad at you


    for leaving Wavery for so long?¡±


    ¡°Are you getting jealous thinking about Summer?¡± Arnold asked.


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m jealous?¡± Rolling her eyes, Josie ced a pillow for him to lie on. ¡°Stop daydreaming.


    I¡¯m simply curious.¡±


    ¡°You should be worried, Arnold teased with a mischievous grin. ¡°After all, we disappeared at the same


    time and didn¡¯t return for such a long time. I¡¯m sure the rumors about us are already spreading like


    wildfire in Wavery.¡± He lit up a cigarette to elevate the pain.


    Josie ignored his yful remarks. ¡°You have a point,¡± she said. ¡°After all, now that Liana has returned,


    Summer has lost the power and standing she had in the past. You¡¯re of no use to the Olsen family


    anymore. I¡¯m sure Mark would be d to know that you¡¯ve disappeared. You have no intention of


    returning to Wavery because that ce is no longer an area that is beneficial to you.¡±


    Arnold took a drag on his cigarette and blew the smoke out slowly. ¡°How are you so confident that


    Summer would lose her power?¡± he asked through the puff of smoke.


    Josie spread her hands in front of her, gesturing to him that everything was as clear as day. ¡°Isn¡¯t it


    obvious enough?¡± she said rhetorically as she lifted a brow.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, a thought popped up in her mind. ¡°I heard that Liana was able to prove her identity to Mark


    and udia due to her birthmark,¡± she said. ¡°what kind of birthmark did she have?¡±


    Josie also had a birthmark, but it wasn¡¯t obvious. She didn¡¯t like it, so she would always subconsciously


    try to hide it from Dexter.


    Arnold¡¯s hand halted in the air when he heard her question. ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± he answered in at t voice.


    Josie was oblivious to the odd behavior change as she was busy tidying up things.


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I think¡­¡±


    He lifted his head and asked, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    Josie stared into his eyes, and she couldn¡¯t bring herself to talk about it. How could she think. of leaving


    the person who saved her behind?


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Josie lied.


    The clock ticked. After a moment, Arnold got exhausted from sitting up and returned to bed. He leaned


    towards one side and uttered, ¡°If you can leave, you should.¡±


    He went straight to the point, his words pouring out in one breath.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Josie froze at her spot. She didn¡¯t expect him to figure out her ns.


    ¡°I know you want to leave to find your father. I understand your feelings, but I cannot guarantee your


    safety this time.¡±


    Arnold sounded dispirited, his voice leaving no hint of emotion as he stated the reality of the situation.


    Josie stood rooted to her spot for a long while. After ruminating for a bit, she finally made her decision


    and leveled her gaze at him. ¡°If you need me in the future, I¡¯ll be here for you.¡±

 Chapter 755 Josie Might Be Dead

    Chapter 755 Josie Might Be Dead


    Hearing Josie¡¯s promise to be there for him in the future made all of Arnold¡¯s doubts disappear. He


    pursed his lips together.


    The next day, as the guards and maids changed shifts, Ruth took Josie through the small opening in


    the fence behind the vi. The young girl was delighted to be outside and started to jump excitedly,


    looking more like she was on her way to a vacation than making an escape.


    Josie scanned their surroundings, afraid that Wayne would see them.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Josie, don¡¯t worry,¡± Ruth assured. ¡°This is my little secret. No one else knows about this ce.¡±


    Josie held Ruth¡¯s hands tightly. ¡°What if your dad suspects you when I leave?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m only five this year. How could I possibly help you escape?¡± she answered innocently.


    Josie suddenly felt a shiver run down her spine. Itpletely rocked her sense of normalcy that a child


    so young could have such devious thoughts.


    Moses was already waiting by the door when she arrived. Josie walked through the tall bushes, and


    before she left, she reminded Ruth. ¡°Make sure to stay safe on your way back!¡±


    Out of the blue, Ruth said to her. ¡°I like you. Will you being back? I¡¯m sure you can¡¯t, right?¡±


    Josie froze. She wanted to respond but couldn¡¯t give her the reply Ruth wanted, so she kept her


    thoughts to herself.


    ¡°Ruth, I¡¯ll always remember you.¡±


    As soon as she said that, she ran towards Moses. The staff members couldn¡¯t contain their delight and


    overwhelming relief at the sight of her. ¡°Mrs. Russell!¡±


    Josie caught her breath before turning around and noticing that Ruth had already left.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Josie struggled to wrap her head around the idea that she had finally escaped. She finally sighed in


    relief when she leaned back into the car seat as the car sped away from the vi.


    ¡°Jo, Mr. Russell still doesn¡¯t know that you¡¯ve escaped. Should I let him know?¡± Moses asked as he


    awaited. her instructions.


    Closing her eyes, Josie had a pinched expression as she recalled everything that had happened; she


    wasn¡¯t sure how to face Dexter. What should she say to him?


    ¡°You can inform him when I¡¯m back at Wavery. There¡¯s no need to bother him when he¡¯s busy.¡±


    Moses tried to continue the conversation, but he had no choice but to stop prying as Josie had already


    drifted off to sleep in the back seat, exhausted from the events before.


    Their journey to the airport was smooth. No one tried to stop them, so they were moving efficiently.


    Wayne¡¯s men must not be aware of what had happened yet.


    The ne pierced through the thick, dark clouds.


    Wavery.


    It was the eighth document that Dexter had pushed away. ¡°Do it again,¡± he demanded without any hint


    of emotion in his voice.


    The people around him stared at each other with a knowing yet fearful gaze. They were too scared to


    go. up against him. Eventually, their eyes all turned to Heather.


    When everyone left, Heather poured a cup of coffee for Dexter, whose knuckles were white from


    clenching his fists. ¡°It¡¯s not yet summer. Why are you so easily angered?¡±


    Dexter had a look of disdain masking his face. The news that Josie might be dead had sent him into a


    tailspin. He had been feeling anxious and uneasy since he couldn¡¯t reach her.


    He wanted to leave for Rividia right away. He was already at the airport when he was stopped by the


    people at the Russell Mansion. ¡°Mr. Russell! You can¡¯t leave now. Old Mr. Russell suddenly fainted and


    is at the hospital.¡±


    Dexter felt conflicted by the situation. His fist clenched tightly around the boarding pass, but he turned


    and headed towards the hospital. Grandpa was in a critical state, and this could be hisst chance to


    see him. He couldn¡¯t leave the man who had raised him.


    Heather had arrived at the hospital that day as well.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t the doctor say that Grandpa¡¯s condition would improve in no time? Don¡¯t worry,¡± she said, trying


    tofort his anxieties.


    Dexter remained silent. He looked at his phone several times, but there were no updates.


    Heather reached out to stop him from checking his phone. ¡°If you¡¯re worried, we can go see Grandpa


    now. He might have regained his consciousness by now.¡±

 Chapter 756 There Must Be Something More to This

    Chapter 756 There Must Be Something More to This


    However, Heather could not follow him, as she had been summoned back to the Olsen residence.


    When Dexter arrived, Marilyn was keeping watch over Grandpa as he slept.


    As he fell into deep thought, the man began to finger the rosary beads in his hands. ¡°Ms. Marilyn, who


    told Grandpa about Paul¡¯s disappearance?¡±


    Old Mr. Russell fainted that day because he had been told about the incident.


    It was difficult for Old Mr. Russell to make a new friend in his golden years, so the news about Paul


    profoundly impacted him.


    Marilyn shook her head sadly. ¡°No one dared to tell him about Paul, but he fainted after receiving a call


    that day.¡±


    Dexter had tried to track down the phone number, but it was an overseas call, so he could do nothing.


    It was a deliberate attempt to upset Grandpa. Who would do such a thing? Dexter was furious at the


    thought.


    At the same time, he had sent his men to find Josie. He had assembled his most capable men, who


    had been through hell and back, to find a way into Wayne¡¯spound.


    He was eager to learn about Josie¡¯s situation.


    He couldn¡¯t imagine what his life would be like if he lost her.


    ¡°Dex, you don¡¯t look well. Have you been sleeping well?¡± Marilyn asked as she poured him a cup of hot


    water.


    Dexter¡¯s eye bags were beginning to show. He had woken up several times in the middle of the night,


    sweating and shaking from nightmares about Josie begging him to save her. He felt his blood run cold.


    every time.


    He couldn¡¯t take it any longer.


    ¡°If Grandpa doesn¡¯t wake up by tomorrow, I¡¯ll have to leave,¡± he said, looking up at Marilyn. His eyes


    were clear with determination. ¡°Josie is in trouble, and I have to help her.¡±


    Marilyn nodded and turned to look at Old Mr. Russell. ¡°Your grandfather will understand. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Larry sat in the car after leaving the hospital, his face grave and solemn. He held the documents tightly


    in his hands. ¡°Mr. Russell, there have been too many things going on,¡± he said with a solemn voice.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. He was exhausted, and his voice was hoarse. ¡°Exin them to me one by


    one.¡± he ordered.


    Larry then reported the recent incidents to Dexter throughout the car ride. ¡°Ever since Summer messed


    her project multiple times, Mark has focused on Zach. Zach had never shown any outstanding results,


    but he¡¯s been getting much more attention these days.¡±


    Mark was still a businessman through and through. He would only keep the people who benefited him.


    around.


    Dexter saw through Mark¡¯s intentions. ¡°He must have a military adviser,¡± he said derisively.


    Larry was startled by his response. ¡°Who?¡± he asked.


    The man¡¯s face turned grim. He lowered the window and reached his hands out to feel the breeze.


    Heather would tell him everything he wanted to know, even the way Mark pampered Summer and


    praised her brother.


    ¡°I initially heard rumors that Zach and Laura were not on good terms, but I noticed that they have


    treated. each other very respectfully since I returned. Also, Zach hasplied with Laura¡¯s opinion,


    especially on work matters.¡±


    His casual utterance revealed critical information.


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    Dexter didn¡¯t ask any further, knowing that Heather would eventually tell him everything.


    He had sent his people to investigate the matter, and they discovered that Zach¡¯s projects were rted


    to one woman.


    He had never thought that the slow-witted beauty Laura would turn out to be sopetent.


    There must be something more to this.

 Chapter 757 Josie Has Returned

    Chapter 757 Josie Has Returned


    Heather also mentioned that Summer would treat Laura terribly at the Olsen residence. She would


    insult. Laura in front of everyone.


    The car stopped in front of the Mason Garden. Larry had just finished reporting when his eyes widened


    in surprise. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Ms. Olsen?¡±


    The person he had been thinking about had appeared before him.


    Heather stood under the night light, her eyes brimming with tears, looking in an extremely pitiful state.


    She stared towards the car as if she had been waiting for a long time.


    Dexter got out of the car and buttoned up his suit with one hand. ¡°What happened? Why are you


    crying?¡±


    Heather started sobbing hysterically at the sound of his voice. She immediately ran into his embrace,


    whimpering. ¡°Father told me he had something to announce and asked me to return home. I didn¡¯t


    expect him to announce the distribution of his shares. He distributed twenty percent of thepany¡¯s


    shares to Zach.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face showed no hint of emotion. Twenty percent is a significant amount.


    ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°Summer only received fifteen percent. She was upset and ended up in an argument with Father. She


    even threw things around the house. Dex¡­¡± Heather¡¯s voice was shaking; her breath felt like it was


    being squeezed out of her. ¡°I don¡¯t like the way they are acting. It¡¯s really frightening.


    Dexter understood how she felt. He lifted his arms and patted her on the head. ¡°What about you? How


    much did Mark distribute to you?¡±


    Heather immediatelyposed herself. ¡°I¡­ I only received ten percent. But that¡¯s not the point.


    There¡¯s no use for me to have these shares. I just want them to be back on good terms. Ein willing to


    give away my shares.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her response. ¡°You foolish girl. Do you know how much your


    shares. are equivalent to?¡±


    Heather couldn¡¯t wrap her head around what he meant.


    A shadow cast over his features. ¡°Do you not like this kind of family?¡± he asked sincerely.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Heather answered under her breath. ¡°I want to return to the church with Mom. I have nowhere


    else to go today. Can I stay here?¡±


    The sight of her tears streaming down her cheeks and the way her trembling voice shook her delicate


    body could make any person¡¯s heart swell. ¡°Dex, you¡¯re the only person I can trust now,¡± she murmured


    under her shaky breath.


    Dexter lowered his head and held onto her shoulders. He gently wiped the tears from her face. ¡°Why


    are you crying? I never knew you were a crybaby all this time.¡±


    Heather¡¯s shoulders trembled as her tears fell. Her eyes were ssy with overwhelming emotions.


    ¡°You can stay here for as long as you need. I¡¯ll be leaving tomorrow after all,¡± Dexter said in a calm and


    gentle voice, wiping the tears from her face.


    Heather¡¯s eyes widened as his words registered. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t say a word. His mind was reeling with thoughts about Josie¡¯s safety.


    He patted Heather on the shoulders and was about to gesture to one of his staff to take her in when he


    noticed something peculiar out of the corner of his eye. There was a familiar car parked nearby, and he


    recognized the license te number.


    He narrowed his eyes and started to march towards the car when it dawned on him that something


    must have happened. Heather was startled by his odd behavior, but she could only watch as his back


    went further away.


    Josie sat in the car, her eyes ssy with unbidden tears. She couldn¡¯t stand to look at their interaction


    any longer.


    Moses had just arrived at Mason Garden when he saw the scene of Heather running into Dexter¡¯s


    embrace.


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    As Josie watched from her car seat, she couldn¡¯t help but notice how intimate Dexter and Heather had


    be. They seemed to have built a strong sense of trust with each other, and Heather¡¯s love for him


    was clearly evident.


    Her feelings of despair washed over her like a wave. She had just returned from a near-death situation,


    and the sight of Dexter and Heather together was too much for her to bear.


    ¡°Ms. Warren¡­¡± Moses stuttered as he looked at Dexter walking towards their car.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were still brimming with tears, but she bit her lower lip to contain her emotions. She put on


    her cap and lowered it so that her eyes were hidden.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes lit up when he bent down to look inside the car. He had a confident and mysterious aura,


    but his behavior reflected his deep relief and joy at seeing Josie again. His hands were trembling as he


    knocked on the tinted car window. ¡°Josic, is that you?¡±

 Chapter 758 Let Go of Me Now

    Chapter 758 Let Go of Me Now


    His voice was choked by the overwhelming emotions.


    Josie took a deep breath and finally opened the door, as Moses had advised. She exited the car,


    crossed her arms, and walked into Mason Garden without saying a word to anyone, passing Dexter by.


    Dexter¡¯s lips paled. He followed her, his eyes full of longing as he looked at her. He wanted to touch


    her, but he didn¡¯t dare. ¡°Jo!¡± he called out to her hesitantly.


    Josie lowered her head, ignoring him. She walked with determined steps, keeping Dexter at a distance,


    but he followed her timidly.


    ¡°Jo! Look at me!¡±


    As they passed Heather, she heard Dexter¡¯s lingering voice calling out to Josie. The passion and


    longing in his voice made her heart sink.


    She couldn¡¯t understand how he was willing to lower his ego for Josie. She thought hist willingness to


    comply with her requests was already a sign of his care, but seeing him so vulnerable with Josie made


    her stomach knot with dread.


    He followed her like a dog hoping to gain the attention of its owner. He wasn¡¯t afraid to shed his image


    as a charismatic and dignified person in front of her.


    Was this still the Dexter she knew?


    Josie continued to march forward, her head down and her eyes on the ground. But when she passed


    Heather, she paused and nced up at her.


    The brief nce from Josie made Heather¡¯s stomach churn as if she had been caught doing something


    wrong.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were calm and unwavering, but her gaze clearly showed the underlying emotions.


    ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond. She continued to walk into Mason Garden.


    Heather and Dexter met each other¡¯s eyes. Heather was eager to exin herself to Josie. ¡°Josie, I


    think there¡¯s been a misunderstanding. Nothing is going on between Dex and me. We¡¯re practically


    siblings.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Heather caught up to Josie and began to exin, but Josie didn¡¯t spare her a nce. Stopping in her


    tracks, Heather then said weakly, ¡°Dex, I should return today,¡±


    However, Dexter also gave her the cold shoulder, his eyes fixed only on Josie. He continued. to walk


    upstairs with Josie and closed the door behind them.


    Heather felt a chill run down her spine.


    ¡°Jo.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was deep and gravelly, his words barely more than a murmur. ¡°It¡¯s a


    misunderstanding.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t bring herself to feel at home in the bedroom, even though it was the same bedding and


    scene she had left behind. She took off her cap and coat, then headed towards. the bathroom. But


    Dexter grabbed her wrist forcefully. ¡°Talk to me!¡±


    His patience was wearing thin, and his voice was thick with emotions.


    Josie winced in pain, and her forehead creased when he grabbed her wound.


    Dexter froze and immediately let go of her hand. He pulled up her sleeves, revealing the bruises on her


    skin. The purple patches all over her pale skin were evidence of the brutality she had endured.


    His eyes shed with anger. ¡°Who did this to you?¡±


    Josie finally looked up into his eyes. She was ovee by despair as she said, ¡°Mr. Russell must be


    having a great time without me around. Do you even care about me?¡±


    Dexter was rendered speechless. His muscles tensed up, his grip on her arms tightening. ¡°You¡¯re upset


    that I didn¡¯t go to Rivodia.¡±


    Josie was exhausted-she had no energy to exin her disappointment. After all, it was all in the past,


    and she had more urgent matters to attend to.


    ¡°Let go of me, Dex!¡±


    He didn¡¯t move an inch. They were so close that he could feel her breath on his face when he said in a


    gruff voice, ¡°Arnold? Or is it Wayne?¡±


    He was asking about the bruises on her arms.


    Josie turned away from him, trying to keep herposure. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter anymore. I just want to


    take a shower. If you don¡¯t want to see me jump off this balcony, let go of me now.¡±


    Her anger was spiraling out of control, like a wildfire burning out of control. She had faced death in the


    eyes and had nothing to fear anymore.


    Dexter hesitated for a moment before loosening his grip to not trigger her any further.

 Chapter 759 I Was in His Life First

    Chapter 759 I Was in His Life First


    Josie had been in the shower for a long time. She was almost numb to her emotions. She didn¡¯t know


    why she had returned to Waverly.


    Heather was still downstairs, hesitant to leave without giving a proper exnation. Moses. walked up to


    her with his arms crossed. ¡°Ms. Olsen, we¡¯ve met a few times,¡± he noted in a deep, cold voice.


    Heather turned to look at him with her doe eyes. ¡°You are¡­?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Moses, Mrs. Russell¡¯s driver.¡± Moses lowered his voice and emphasized the words ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Heather was quick to understand what he was implying. ¡°You¡¯re ming me too.¡±


    ¡°When we first met, you weren¡¯t the precious daughter of the Olsen family. I believe I still have the right


    to say this.¡± Moses looked into her eyes and added, ¡°It¡¯s not right to spoil someone else¡¯s marriage.¡±


    His words were direct and full of contempt. Heather¡¯s face pinched in anger. She took a deep. breath


    and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Then why did youe here today?¡±


    ¡°My rtionship with Dex is something no one else understands. Can¡¯t I share my worries. with him?¡±


    Heather spoke with determination. ¡°I was in his life first,¡± she continued. ¡°Mrs. Russell came muchter.


    And now my life is a mess.¡±


    Her voice was aloof, but it wasyered with deep sadness. Moses smirked. ¡°I¡¯ve been through. the best


    and the worst that life has to offer, but I would never do anything to hurt someone else.¡±


    Heather gripped her skirt as she listened to what Moses had to say. ¡°I have faith that the things that


    belong to me will always be mine.¡±


    She then nced toward Moses with a solemn gaze before walking away.


    Moses didn¡¯t spare a nce at her. The lines on his forehead deepened as he stared stairs.


    A heavy silence hung in the air upstairs.


    Josie opened the door and peered outside but couldn¡¯t see anyone. Suddenly, she felt a pair of arms


    wrap around her from behind. A voice whispered in her ear, ¡°It¡¯s my fault.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡±


    His lips were almost touching her neck. ¡°Don¡¯t be mad at me.¡±


    Josie moved away from him without saying a word.


    He cupped her face in his hands and leaned his forehead against hers. ¡°I underestimated. Wayne and


    didn¡¯t care about your safety. Jo, I was going to head to Rivodia tonight to save you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind reeled. ¡°Aren¡¯t you a little toote? I ended up back here on my own.¡±


    ¡°Dexter, I can still return without you. Why do you have to do this?¡± Josie felt a painful wave swell in her


    heart as she recalled his intimate interaction with Heather.


    Dexter pulled her closer into his embrace. ¡°I wanted to find you as soon as possible, but there were too


    many things going on in Wavery¡±


    Josie interrupted him. ¡°I need some time to myself.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s grip on her waist tightened like a vice, and she cried out in pain. ¡°Let go of me!¡±


    Dexter held her hands tightly. ¡°Will pping me make you feel better?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Before Josie could even process what he was saying, he grabbed her hand and pped himself across


    the face. Her hands turned sore from the impact.


    Josie immediately pulled her hands away. ¡°Dexter!¡± she cried.


    ¡°What about the second time?¡± he asked, grabbing her hands and raising them to p himself again.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in fear, and she clenched her fists tightly, resisting his force.


    Dexter loosened his grip on her hands and hugged her tightly.


    ¡°Jo, I only dared to let you and Arnold head to Rivodia because I knew you¡¯d be safe with him.¡±

 Chapter 760 You Were Using Arnold

    Chapter 760 You Were Using Arnold


    Josie lifted her gaze and stared at him in confusion. ¡°You knew that Arnold would follow me.¡±


    Dexter had an inscrutable expression, but it was clear that he didn¡¯t like her reaction.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Josie backed away from him. ¡°You also knew why he went to Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°My men have been watching Arnold for years. We¡¯re well aware of his connection to Wayne.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. ¡°So you just made a bet with my life? Didn¡¯t your think


    about how I could have died because of your recklessness?¡±


    The man¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I told you Arnold wouldn¡¯t hurt you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because you know he likes me!¡± Josie felt an overwhelming sense of dread coursing through


    her veins. Her eyes were turning red. ¡°You knew that Arnold would save me if Wayne tried to kill me.


    You were using Arnold!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t bear the thought that her life was bet on using Arnold¡¯s affections for her.


    Josie had been through a lot at Wayne¡¯s ce, and it was understandable that she would feel betrayed


    and sad. But Dexter couldn¡¯t help but wonder why she was reacting so strongly to the revtion. ¡°Are


    you talking on behalf of Arnold? Or does his feelings for you bother you?¡± he asked genuinely.


    He was right.


    Even though she knew he was prying into her emotions and thoughts, she couldn¡¯t deny. what he was


    implying. It was hard to erase the memories she shared with Arnold these past few days.


    She didn¡¯t know how to exin to Dexter that she owed Arnold a debt of gratitude.


    ¡°Dexter, everyone in Rivodia told me how cold-hearted Wayne was, but I think he can¡¯tpare to


    you.¡± Josie¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°Does my father¡¯s disappearance have anything to do with you?¡± she


    continued. She had never suspected Dexter before but couldn¡¯t shake the uneasy feeling after hearing


    his admission.


    Dexter stared coldly into her eyes. ¡°Josie, don¡¯t you think you should spare me some kindness the way


    you do for Arnold?¡±


    The man¡¯s deep and gravelly voice still tugged at her heartstrings, but she turned.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t get any news about Paul in Rivodia. I believe the incident happened in Wavery. I won¡¯t be


    staying here for the next few days.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as she finished her sentence, she packed her things and got ready to leave.


    Dexter stood rooted to his spot, silently watching her as she packed her things in a hurry.


    Once Josie finished packing, he seemed calmer than before. ¡°I won¡¯t ask my men to return. from


    Rivodia. They¡¯ll keep an eye out for Arnold so that you can be assured of his safety.¡±


    She didn¡¯t stop to look at him.


    ¡°I took care of your studio while you were gone. Take a look at it when you have time.¡±


    She was reminded of her studio only when he mentioned it. She didn¡¯t have the capacity to manage it


    right now.


    Dexter had already walked past her down the stairs and disappeared around the corner by the time she


    lifted her head.


    All she could sense was the lingering smell of cigarette smoke.


    He must have been smoking a lottely.


    Moses was the only person on the ground floor when she arrived.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, Mr. Russell asked me to wait for you.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m overreacting?¡±


    Moses¡¯ forehead creased. ¡°You just came back from a near-death situation. No one would me you.


    I¡¯m sure Mr. Russell understands.¡±


    But he didn¡¯t care about putting my life at risk. And to make matters worse, he got close to Heather


    while she was away. She understood the reason, but her heart still ached at the thought of them


    together.


    ¡°Forget it. I need you to take me somewhere.¡±

 Chapter 761 Dexter Treats Her Differently

    Chapter 761 Dexter Treats Her Differently


    Wavery¡¯s city center.


    She stood in front of the window on the twentieth floor of Waterfront Heights, staring at the city lights


    and the reflection of her exhausted face. Josie was lost in her thoughts, remembering thest time she


    was here when she had met Morgan.


    The door suddenly opened, and she heard the thud of heels. ¡°Josie! I¡¯ve been looking everywhere for


    you. I thought you were dead! Where have you been?¡±


    Suddenly, the limited-edition Louis Vuitton bag mmed softly against her back. Josie turned around


    and saw Laura standing with her arms crossed.


    ¡°Tell me what happened! I was worried sick!¡± Laura blurted out coldly.


    Josie let out a chuckle when she met Laura¡¯s eyes. It had only been a few days, but she felt like it had


    been an eternity since she had seen someone so energetic.


    ¡°You look like you¡¯ve changed a lot in the past few days. You look much more confident than before,


    Josie observed.


    Laura sighed in relief when Josie finally spoke. She sat on the sofa and said, ¡°Mark distributed. his


    shares today. It¡¯s been a hectic day.¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    Laura knew exactly what was on Josie¡¯s mind. ¡°Zach got twenty percent, Summer got percent, and


    Heather got ten percent.¡±


    Josie was even more dumbfounded by the revtion.


    There have been so many things going on since I left.


    ¡°A police officer named Scott came to the Olsen residence and investigated everyone. Mark was


    furious. Were you the one behind this?¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie chuckled. ¡°It seems like the police officer is doing his job right. I¡¯ll have to appreciate his hard


    work.¡±


    The corner of Laura¡¯s lips lifted into a knowing smile.


    ¡°So, why did youe to find me after returning to Wavery?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you,¡± Josie said, twirling her hair. ¡°But you look like you¡¯ve been doing quite well, seeing


    how full of vigor you are.¡±


    Laura froze. Her lips curled up as she said, ¡°Zach doesn¡¯t hit me anymore.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I helped him with a project, and he got Mark¡¯s favor. Now that he knows I¡¯m beneficial to him, so he


    doesn¡¯t hit me anymore.¡±


    So that¡¯s why Zach got twenty percent of Mark¡¯s shares. The tables have turned.


    Josie was relieved and happy for Laura. But she was soon reminded of another concern. ¡°You¡¯re up


    against Summer now. Do you think she¡¯ll let you off the hook?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s always bothering me and giving me a lot of trouble.¡± Laura paused, a mischievous grin lifting the


    features on her face. ¡°But I give her a piece of my mind as well.¡±


    Josie smiled and asked, ¡°What about Heather?¡±


    Laura¡¯s eyes glinted with mischief when she heard Josie¡¯s question. ¡°She¡¯s willing to be the Russell


    Group¡¯s assistant and live a much better life than all of us.¡±


    Josie knew that her husband had been treating Heather very well.


    Josie forced a smile. ¡°I might have to stay here for the next few days.¡±


    ¡°Do you even need to ask?¡± Laura suddenly lowered her voice. ¡°I mean it. You have to be careful of


    Heather. Dexter treats her differently. They care for each other deeply.¡±


    She didn¡¯t borate on what kind of rtionship they shared.


    Josie looked unfazed by Laura¡¯s statement, but a bitter sense of pain coiled around her heart.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Josie. You have to rely on Dexter now. You can use him whenever you need to.¡±


    Josie felt ufortable with the idea of basing her rtionship with Dexter on benefits.


    Josie was feeling drowsy. She closed her eyes and said, ¡°You can look forward to how I¡¯ll give in to


    him.¡±

 Chapter 762 Zach’s Lover

    Chapter 762 Zach¡¯s Lover


    Josie rose early the following day. She slipped into a business suit and headed out in hight heels


    confidently.


    Laura left before daybreak after chatting until midnight. Josie left the apartment and was about to step


    into the elevator. A person sprang forward and blocked the entrance. ¡°You¡¯re Laura, right? Let¡¯s talk.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. The inly dressed woman before her had a menacing air despite her


    delicate appearance. She was watching Josie with an unusual look of possessiveness.


    ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Ava. We talked on the phone before.¡±


    Josie did not know the woman. Laura did not warn her beforehand either.


    The woman continued. ¡°What a coincidence that we both live in the same area. Should wel take some


    time and talk everything through? This will be the best for us two and Zach.¡±


    Zach Olsen.


    Josie lowered her head as she smiled. So, it¡¯s about the rtionship.


    Morgan¡¯s rmendation of the apartment was undoubtedly exceptional. Therge apartment


    overlooked the skyline of the city. Ava immediately noticed the wide view when she stepped into the


    room.


    ¡°Get straight to the point, Ms. Ava. I¡¯m busy.¡± Josiey on the sofa indolently.


    It was evident that Ava did not want to spend more time there than necessary either. ¡°I¡¯ll give you five


    million if you divorce Zach.¡±


    She frowned and almost choked on her water. Amused, she asked, ¡°Five million?¡±


    Ava stared at her cautiously. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Do you know how much this apartment costs?¡± Josie chuckled. ¡°Fifty million. I paid it in full. I even


    have several other apartments in Wavery.¡±


    In reality, she did not have any other apartments. All she had was the ability to exaggerate.


    Moreover, it was for Laura¡¯s sake.


    As Josie spoke, she discreetly sent a message to Laura, asking her about the situation.


    Ava¡¯s chest was heaving.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Five million is what I spend on a piece of clothing. You¡¯re offering me a deal with clothing. Are you


    looking down on me or Zach?¡±


    Josie¡¯s carefree posture and nonchnce exhibited the air of an affluent young miss. Ava was lost for


    words for a few moments.


    ¡°So what if you are loaded? You know very well that Zach and I love each other. Yet you were hell-bent


    on marrying him. Imagine if you were in my ce. How would you feel?! Zach told me his family


    disagreed with the divorce. But if you show the insistence you had when you married him, the Olsen


    family will definitely agree. I will protect you then. I¡¯ll give you another five million when all of this is


    over. You won¡¯t have any loss!¡±


    Ava was worked up to the point that she was unaware that not all she said was the truth.


    ¡°Ten million. That¡¯s a pretty good deal.¡± Josie thought about it seriously. ¡°How would you give it to me?¡±


    Ava pulled out a bank card from her purse. ¡°There¡¯s five million in here. You can take it as a deposit.¡±


    Josie took the card. After fiddling with it, she bent it, snapping it into two.


    ¡°You!¡± Ava jumped to her feet. ¡°What have you done?!¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m an id*ot?!¡± Josie red. ¡°If I epted this card, you could get the bank ount


    statement and tell Zach or the Olsen family that I transferred your money. They would believe you,


    especially with my current reputation. You could tantlye to the family after that. How bold of


    you!¡±


    Ava had heard that Zach¡¯s wife was not easy to deal with, but she had not expected her to be that


    formidable.

 Chapter 763 Help, Call the Police

    Chapter 763 Help, Call the Police


    She began to panic as her n was exposed. ¡°What nonsense are you saying?¡±


    Josie did not want to waste more time and headed to the door.


    ¡°If you want me to divorce Zach, stay away from me. Maybe there will be a day when I¡¯m in a good


    mood. I may give him to you then.¡±


    Ava stood in her spot, dazed.


    They say that Laura dislikes Zach. It seems that it¡¯s true?


    ¡°I have to head out now. Please leave, Ms. Ava.¡±


    Unfortunately, the elevator door opened at that moment. Dressed in formal wear, Zach stepped out with


    his bodyguards behind him.


    Great. Josie took a deep breath.


    Zach noticed her and was surprised. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    He came to find Ava but did not expect Josie to be there.


    When Ava heard Zach¡¯s voice, she scuttled passed Josie toward Zach with tears in her before Josie


    could reply. ¡°Zach¡­¡±


    ¡°Ava?¡± His expression changed as he wiped the tears off her face. ¡°Why are you crying? Didn¡¯t I tell


    you to stay at home?¡±


    She shook her head and forced a smile. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Ms. Brandel invited me to her home.¡±


    Josie was astounded. How does she react within seconds?


    When Zach heard the name, he immediately understood that Ava was mistaken. Josie spoke up before


    he could. ¡°You should have a conscience, Ms. Ava.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zach glowered at Josie. ¡°What are you doing here? What have you done to Ava?!¡±


    ¡°Zach, it¡¯s not her fault. She loves you too much. That¡¯s why she offered ten million for me to leave you¡±


    Ava mumbled. A tear fell from her face onto Zach¡¯s hand.


    Zach was frustrated when he heard her exnation. He looked back and saw the snapped bank card


    on the table


    This woman searched for Ava¡¯s house just to threaten her!


    ¡°Who told you toe?¡± Zach asked Josie in a chilling voice.


    ¡°Ms. Ava, it¡¯s a shame you don¡¯t have a best actress award for your acting.¡± Josie could not help but


    laugh as she leaned against the door. She had seen firsthand the cunningness of a maniptor.


    ¡°Enough! Enough with this acting. Take her away!¡± He roared.


    Josie widened her eyes as the burly bodyguards approached her. She moved backward while yelling,


    ¡°Zach! You¡¯re the only one who believes her words. Serves you f*****g right for being deceived!¡±


    ¡°Excuse us, miss!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t! Let¡¯s talk this out!¡±


    Josie nced toward the elevator. The red numbers on the screen were blinking as someone was


    using the elevator. 30, 29, 28¡­


    ¡°Grab her!¡±


    Zach yelled, and the bodyguards were about to catch her. Josie shoved one of the potted nts in the


    lobby toward them. Shards of the pot and dirt covered the floor. She took the chance and pressed the


    elevator button frantically.


    The guards were finding their way through the mess when the elevator doors opened.


    Her eyes lit up as though she had seen her savior.


    A tall man was in the elevator. He was at least six foot two. The ck cap and mask left only his dark


    eyes visible. There was an air of aloofness around him.


    He frowned slightly at the scene unfolding before his eyes.


    A woman with disheveled hair rushed into the elevator. She clung to the corner of his shirt. and hid


    behind him. ¡°Help! Please help me! Call the police! They¡¯re trying to kill me!¡±

 Chapter 764 He Wants to Lay Hands on Josie

    Chapter 764 He Wants to Lay Hands on Josie


    With an outsider around, the bodyguards were hesitant. They looked back at Zach tentatively.


    His face was dark. ¡°Grab her!¡±


    Zach doesn¡¯t care that we¡¯re in public and wants them to continue. How brazen of him.


    ¡°Zach, don¡¯t be this shameless. This is not even your turf, but you¡¯re telling your people to grab me


    because you want to. Besides, am I Laura?¡± Josie said confidently.


    She clutched the man¡¯s shirt as though it was her lifeline.


    The man before her lowered his head and met her cunning eyes. Unexpectedly, a smile flitted through


    his face.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking for it!¡± Zach released an astonished Ava¡¯s hand and marched toward the woman,


    thinking of prying her out of the elevator.


    Josie¡¯s lifeline raised a hand and reminded in a cold voice, ¡°This is Waterfront Heights. No one benefits


    if you make a scene here.¡±


    Zach frowned and stared at the man with the mask. He reminded himself the building was in the best


    location in Wavery. The privacy there was first-ss. Those that could afford to live there were the most


    affluent people. If something were to happen here and Mark found out about it, Zach would be in


    trouble.


    ¡°This is a family matter.¡±


    ¡°She asked me for help. Naturally I have to.¡±


    He smiled and reached for the elevator¡¯s buttons. The elevator doors slide close.


    The man wasparable to Zach as they faced head-to-head.


    Frustrated, Ava watched as Josie managed to escape. She wanted to speak up but could not.


    Zach¡¯s figure seemed terrifying. She could not approach him.


    In the elevator.


    ¡°Thank you for earlier. Erm, I need to go now. Bye!¡± Josie clutched the man¡¯s hand while thanking him.


    She would not even mind if she needed to kneel to thank him.


    Yet he kept silent with his eyes fixed on her face. ¡°Josie.¡±


    She paused.


    ¡°Do you know me?¡±


    He gave her a look. ¡°Stop pretending.¡±


    She was quiet.


    She forced a smile. At that moment, Laura replied to her message. That¡¯s the crook! Are you alright?


    Josie pretended to be busy typing on her phone while exiting the elevator. But he grabbed her cor


    from behind. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    His voice was as cold as usual.


    She took a deep breath and turned around. ¡°You seem very free today, Mr. Russell, for appear as a


    hero to save a damsel in distress?¡±


    Even if the man before her wore a cap and mask, she would undoubtedly recognize him. The air


    around him was just that distinctive.


    He frowned at her sarcastic words and took off his mask. ¡°I came to find you. I know you¡¯re here.¡±


    So he came on purpose.


    Josie was surprised but did not appreciate it. She could not be bothered to put on a smile. ¡°I¡¯m busy.¡±


    He followed her closely. ¡°I¡¯ll follow you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not good. If any reporters photographed us, you would have to spend a fortune to keep it out of


    the news,¡± she mocked him.


    ¡°We¡¯re legally married. There¡¯s no need for that.¡±


    ¡°What about Heather? I heard you two were photographed, and you spent millions to have them


    destroyed. How marvelous.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She smiled, recalling Laura¡¯s recount of the recent events.


    One characteristic of a man caring for a woman is his willingness to spend money. He was willing to


    spend money on Heather. That was more than enough as a sign.


    He grasped her wrist. ¡°People would misunderstand if it got out. It must be destroyed.¡±


    ¡°And you? Do you feel remorse?¡±


    The anger within her bubbled up again. She spotted Moses¡¯ car a few meters ahead and strode straight


    into the car. Dexter followed.


    ¡°Head to Russell Group.¡±

 Chapter 765 Do You Want to Be Mrs Russell

    Chapter 765 Do You Want to Be Mrs Russell


    It was rush hour as the employees headed to their workce. Dexter¡¯s Porsche was especially eye-


    catching when it stopped by the roadside.


    When Josie stepped out, all eyes were on them as Dexter was behind her.


    They headed into the building. Along the way, employees would greet Dexter and Josie.


    Those who were bold said, ¡°It¡¯s been a while, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie smiled back in return.


    With his hands in his pockets, Dexter followed her. He was not bothered by the situation but even


    seemed to be a little happy.


    Josie headed to the top floor. The employees were not there yet, but Heather was.


    She came early and was preparing for work. When the door¡¯s sensor rang, she raised her head at


    once. ¡°Dex.¡±


    She saw Josie walking toward her. Josie was walking faster than Dexter. He was trailing behind her.


    Heather was taken aback.


    ¡°¡­Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie only smiled brightly. ¡°You¡¯re early. Looks like this is the perfect job for you.¡±


    Heather could not smile and looked toward Dexter with pleading eyes.


    However, an executive rushed into the office with a stack of documents. ¡°Mr. Russell, I finally found


    you. This is the newly approved project. Please have a look.¡±


    It seemed to be an emergency. Dexter nced at Josie and nodded. He left with the executive to the


    break room.


    The two were left in the spacious office as though in a confrontation.


    Heather forced a smile. ¡°I don¡¯t quite understand what you meant. Are you mocking me?¡±


    ¡°How can I mock the young miss of the Olsen family? Have you heard when a person gets a job they


    don¡¯t deserve? But this job doesn¡¯t deserve you. Your talents are wasted here, Olsen¡¯s young miss.¡±


    Josie plopped into Dexter¡¯s chair and observed Heather.


    Heather was stunned by her actions, which seemed natural. She could not even touch Dexter¡¯s hand,


    yet Josie had no problem sitting in his seat. D


    ¡°I like this job, and I¡¯m not wasting my time here. My father is satisfied as well.¡±


    Josie nodded as she noticed the meaning behind her words. No one could interfere in the game


    between Mark and Dexter.


    Josie picked up the coffee prepared for Dexter and sipped it. She furrowed her forehead. ¡°I¡¯m not


    satisfied.¡±


    Heather¡¯s body was stiff as she watched Josie pour the coffee. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Leave the work to the people it¡¯s supposed to go to. I believe you have no intention of being. a


    personal assistant for the rest of your life. How about this, you leave Russell Group and do what you


    should. I believe your family would agree too. After all, it¡¯ll be disgraceful if word goes out that Ms.


    Olsen is a personal assistant at Russell Group.¡±


    Josie was smiling the whole time. When Heather showed a displeased expression, Josie raised. an


    eyebrow. ¡°Why? Do you have bigger ns here?¡±


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    Heather¡¯s eyes flickered.


    Josie continued relentlessly. ¡°Is it taking the position of Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Heather faltered and took a step back. She shook her head. ¡°Only Mr. Russell has the to investigate my


    matters.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true. He¡¯s your superior, after all.¡± Josie nced at the break room.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m his superior. Please leave by the end of the day, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Josie rose to her feet and stood next to the window. She observed the view of the skyline, unwilling to


    exchange another word with the woman.


    Tears were welling up in Heather¡¯s eyes. She watched Josie¡¯s back. There was a resolute air around


    her that did not exist before.

 Chapter 766 Dependence Is Death

    Chapter 766 Dependence Is Death


    Not long after Heather left, Dexter returned from the break room. He hugged her from behind without


    making any noise. ¡°Are you satisfied now?¡±


    The man¡¯s breathnded on her neck. She shivered. ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you wanted? Getting rid of the


    trouble Mark nted with my hand.¡±


    She turned her head, and their faces touched. ¡°Making me the viin here. You¡¯re merciless, Mr.


    Russell.¡±


    Dexter allowed Josie to finish the conversation earlier. It meant that he agreed, or in other words, he


    never wanted Heather by his side.


    He nted his lips on her neck relentlessly. Their breathing quickened.


    ¡°As long as Mrs. Russell is happy.¡±


    She raised her head. The past events and people shed through her mind. She was in no mood to


    continue and pushed him away. ¡°I want to find my dad, but I need more authority. Are you willing to give


    me more, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Josie realized something from the trip to Rivodia. Dependence would result in her death. Even if she


    had some aplishments in her field, it was far from being her protection.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes dimmed. She could not see what he was thinking.


    He reached out and hugged her weakly. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Josie felt numb.


    Dexter gave her authority, starting from within thepany.


    Significant projects were arranged to be under her despite the numerous objections.


    When a new project wasunched into the market, Josie led her team out to the airport from Russell


    Group. Dexter sent her personally. She let him hold her hand but was busy with phone calls in the other


    hand without any break. When they arrived, her only words were: ¡°Are you free when I get back? Your


    birthday is near.¡±


    His expression stayed the same, and his voice was gentle.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I¡¯m free. I won¡¯t be going with you this time. You can take this chance to get used to it, alright?¡±


    He wanted her to take the lead


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    She stepped out of the car.


    His expression turned nk.


    Thirty thousand feet in the air on the ne, Dexter¡¯s face kept reappearing in Josie¡¯s mind. There were


    times when it was unkind, times when it was gentle. Sometimes his expression. was mixed, but he was


    always patient with her.


    Reporters were gathered in the trade center in London. When the time arrived, Josie and her team


    smiled and announced the project¡¯sunch.


    Josie replied in fluent French when a reporter interviewed her. The foreign news media praised her.


    Josie¡¯s assistant handed her a document. Dexter prepared it for her before they left. It was Russell


    Group¡¯s industry in telmunication. It was under Josie¡¯s authority from that point onward.


    Dexter¡¯s signature on the bottom was neat. A white paper was in the folder with the words, Jo, your


    happiness is my greatest pleasure!


    When Josie arrived back in Wavery, Dexter was away on a business trip. She was unclear about the


    location.


    Josie was surprised. He would usually tell her when he needed to leave for a business trip. Yet he did


    not say a word to her.


    She stayed in his study and called his number. He began exining the issue in one of the main


    coborations. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    She swiped her finger across the books on the shelf and pulled one onto the table. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°I saw that live stream. You did very well in London.¡± The man smiled. The voice from the phone made


    her sleepy, especially with the warm light from the winter sun.


    She pulled another book out. ¡°Did Heathere to you?¡±


    ¡®She didn¡¯t. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± He paused.


    ¡°Alright¡±

 Chapter 767 She Didn’t Return

    Chapter 767 She Didn¡¯t Return


    Dexter was in Wavery.


    lvy crept all across the rough exterior of an almost abandoned apartment building. The tall and new


    government building behind it became aparison of the position of the rich and poor.


    Only a few people were entering and exiting the entrance. All of them were elderly. They gave Dexter¡¯s


    luxurious car a curious look when they passed by it.


    Larry said that they would not be able to find much as most of the residents had moved away.


    Dexter had a harsh look. ¡°Wait down here.¡±


    Dexter headed up. Only a few bulbs lighted the narrow stairways. The light would flicker from time to


    time, creating an eerie atmosphere from a horror film.


    The woman¡¯s voice in the call was cold. She asked about work, and her tone became softer at the end.


    ¡°Will you be back on the twentieth?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± he immediately replied.


    He owed her much, but she still remembered his birthday, although it was not a big deal.


    A inly dressed old woman passed by. ¡°Are you here for someone, young man? No one¡¯s here. You


    should find them somewhere else.¡±


    Larry followed him inside, although he was told to stay. ¡°Mr. Russell, we should leave now.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    On the twentieth, Josie was making a cake with the chef at Mason Garden.


    She did not n on doing it at first. Dexter was probably not a fan of desserts anyway.


    But she thought that it would be a nice gesture. Birthdays were the most important thing to her when


    she was younger.


    Halfway through, she left the kitchen to answer a phone call. It was Laura saying that an emergency


    needed Josie to return to the studio.


    She told Julie about it.


    ¡°Will you be back tonight. Mrs Russell


    The cake was almost done.


    Josie did not think before saying, ¡°Of course, I will be back.¡±


    In the evening, Dexter arrived at home. ¡°Where¡¯s Mrs. Russell?¡±


    ¡°She went out and said she¡¯ll be back at night.¡±


    Julie guided Dexter to the kitchen to cheer him up. ¡°Look, Mrs. Russell made this cake herself.¡±


    Dexter was overjoyed. He went to his study to finish some work but could not sit still. He would peek


    out of the room every few minutes and ask the maids, ¡°Is Mrs. Russell back Their replies were always


    disappointing. yet?¡±


    He smiled. It was as though he had returned to when he was eighteen. A rash and reckless teenager.


    It¡¯s fine. Let¡¯s wait a bit more. Josie won¡¯t break her promise.


    With these thoughts in his head, he kept pushing back his desire to call her.


    He waited endlessly. It was ten, eleven, midnight. Josie had not returned even when three hours had


    passed midnight on the twenty-first.


    All the lights in Mason Garden were lit. Dexter was furious. His phone was almost burning hot, but he


    could not reach Josie.


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    With disappointment and intense worry, he ordered, ¡°Get Mrs. Russell back home by eight in the


    morning!¡±


    He sent out many of his men, and they searched all over the city.


    His birthday had ended. Dexter had Moses drive him and questioned him subtly, Moses did not know


    anything. The car went on the road and eventually ended up at the studio. It was all for naught.


    He ordered a history of Josie¡¯s call log, and Laura was thest call. She was awakened from her sleep


    and panic-stricken when she heard the news. ¡°I did meet up with Jo, but we parted ways less than half


    an hourter!¡±


    They could only continue to check the security cameras and her phone But it was fruitless

 Chapter 768 Exposure

    Chapter 768 Exposure


    Dexter was frantic at this point. His fury had turned into immense fear as he realized that anyone¡¯s


    wrath toward him would eventually spread to Josie.


    Nothing would be impossible for them.


    Dexter¡¯s expression was dark. He reached out to grab something but only grasped a handful of air.


    ¡°Find out where Arnold is today.¡±


    The weather was spectacrly sunny at eight in the morning of the twenty-first.


    Dawn broke before the man¡¯s eyes. The people around him were shaking in their shoes as if they had


    failed in the search for Josie.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    A piece of news was announced at that very moment. It appeared before their eyes and shocked them


    to the core.


    Dexter had a premonition as his eyelid twitched. He forced himself not to think in that direction, but it


    happened.


    The news was not only trending all over social media. The news arrived at Dexter¡¯s feet as though they


    feared he would miss it.


    It was a paper file.


    The handwriting on it was unfamiliar but written in big strokes: ¡®Only for Dexter.


    A chill ran down Larry¡¯s back. He stepped forward to take it away. ¡°I¡¯ll open it, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was the darkest it could be. The look he gave was a warning.


    His broad hands opened the file swiftly. The very next second, a waterfall of photographs fell to the


    ground.


    The high-definition photographsnded on the ground. Some of them with sharper eyes saw it and


    stepped back with a scream, horrified.


    The next second, the rest immediately turned away or shut their eyes. They trembled and could not


    take a second look.


    Dexter was the only one left clutching the high-gloss photos. He was sweating all over, and his lips


    were trembling. He could not believe his eyes. The images were so explicit that it gave people a visual


    shock.


    Two pale bodies were intertwined. Josie waspletely bare that any imagination would be thrown out


    the window.


    A man embraced Josie and showed only his lips as they kissed.


    It was the face, lips, and body Dexter was familiar with. The photos were telling him that Josie no


    longer belonged to him. She had done it with a man, one who was not her husband.


    The photos were endless.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were red. He had never imagined he would feel such pain. He flew into a rage, throwing


    cups and smashing the car. His legs shook. It was a mess.


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    At the same time, the entirety of Wavery, the country, and even the whole world saw Josie and the


    man¡¯s bare bodies. It was an unprecedented scandal of an affluent family.


    All had seen that Dexter Russell¡¯s wife had cheated on him.


    The spread of the news was unstoppable.


    Larry saw Dexter¡¯s trembling hands. The man bent down, picked up all the photos, and put it back. All


    he could do was pretend nothing had happened.


    Josie always hurt the powerful man who could do anything in business. Yet again, he was hit by the


    terrible shock today.


    In a random room in Wavery, Josie woke up sore all over. Drowsily, she saw Arnold lying beside her.


    Within seconds, she sat up to find herself unclothed. She looked down at the disarray on the floor. Her


    heart thumped, and her thoughts were in a scramble.


    Her clothes and undergarments were all on the floor.

 Chapter 769 Next to Arnold

    Chapter 769 Next to Arnold


    A bad feeling bubbled up. She clenched her fingers and turned back slowly. Blood rushed to her head.


    She had seen thest scene she wanted to see.


    Her fingers dug into her palm. She was panicking, and her breathing was erratic. She patted his face.


    ¡°Arnold! Arnold!¡±


    The usual light sleeper did not respond.


    Why is he in Wavery?


    She fell to the floor. Raising her head, she looked through the only window in the room. It was bright


    daylight.


    She bit her knuckles but could not stop the trembling. It was almost evening when she left home, and


    now it was bright outside. Dexter¡¯s birthday had passed.


    She stayed a night with Arnold here, stark naked?


    Josie put on her clothes swiftly. She tried to wake Arnold up to no avail. Her mind was cluttered. She


    pushed all the unthinkable thoughts to the back of her mind. The most important thing now was to save


    Arnold.


    He was passed out.


    She smelled the air in the room. If she was correct, someone had put in drugs or something even


    worse, causing them to be light-headed.


    They were in a remote ce. Their phones were nowhere in the room. Josie spent all her energy and


    jumped out of the window. The fresh air was suffocating.


    She ran frantically. Tripped by a stone, she climbed up and continued desperately. She had to get


    someone to rescue Arnold.


    She did not even know how long she had been running.


    She did not have her phone or any money with her. When she finally saw a road, she stopped a taxi.


    ¡°Please send me to Mason¡­ No send me to Russell Group, alright?¡±


    When she recalled, Josie felt she had taken a path of self-destruction. She knew what had happened


    but hoped to prove that things were not as she had imagined. Dexter would also reach out to her as


    usual.


    Dexter was in his office. He received an unknown call. Joste¡¯s voice was in distress Dexter..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m outside thepany. I don¡¯t have any money on me¡­¡±


    He could not hear what she said after that. His heart felt like a pin cushion.


    Larry went down in her ce.


    Reporters would have swamped thepany if they had not directed the traffic.


    When Larry arrived. Josie was standing next to the taxi. The driver was secretly filming her. Josie


    noticed him and was bewildered. ¡°Why would you film me?¡±


    Larry rushed forward. The driver did not even ask for the fare and sped off.


    A pair of nk eyes stared at Larry. He could not bear looking at it with resentment in his heart. ¡°Follow


    me, Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie grabbed his hand. ¡°Why did he film me. Mr. Peeple?¡±


    Stiffly, he replied coldly, ¡°You know what you¡¯ve done.¡±


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    Dexter¡¯s office door was opened. He stood before the window. His ck clothes made him look forlorn.


    Josie moved forward slowly. Her steps felt heavy.


    A rarely-seen cigarette was between his fingers.


    Yet, even the smoke from it was ck.


    Josie¡¯s voice was stuck in her throat. ¡°Don¡¯t smoke anymore since you¡¯ve quit. It¡¯s difficult to quit if you


    get addicted again.¡±

 Chapter 770 Reputation Ruined

    Chapter 770 Reputation Ruined


    Dexter did not respond. Momentster, the office was filled with the acrid smell of cigarettes. Josie


    mustered her courage to walk up to him and attempted to touch his hand. ¡°I need to talk to¡­¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was even more strained than hers. Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat the moment


    Dexter spoke up.


    ¡°There¡¯s a document on the table. Take a look at it.¡± He said.


    Josie gripped his sleeve tightly, knowing Dexter¡¯s anger was brewing behind his calmness. She shook


    her head, looking extremely submissive. ¡°No. I don¡¯t want to.¡±


    Finally, Dexter lowered his head to look at her. His back was facing the light, so Josie couldn¡¯t perceive


    his expression. His cold finger touched Josie¡¯s chin as he hummed softly, ¡°Go and take a look.¡±


    His voice was soft yet intimidating.


    It was a thick envelope. Josie took a deep breath before opening it. Following that, she slumped onto


    the floor while the pictures in the envelope scattered on the ground. Her heart jumped into his throat.


    Breathing heavily, she knelt on the ground in the same posture as Dexter previously did.


    It was pictures of her embracing Arnold¡­.


    Tears streamed down her cheeks uncontrobly. It felt like the sun had ceased its shining.


    How is this possible? Why did things turn out this way? What does this mean?


    Josie¡¯s mind became a chaotic mess. Even breathing felt like torture. She was utterly ashamed looking


    at these pictures.


    Dexter¡¯s voice emerged from above. ¡°Yesterday, you said you were waiting for me toe. home to


    celebrate my birthday. I waited for twenty-four hours and ended up receiving these pictures.¡±


    He raised his voice. ¡°Jo, is there anything you¡¯d like to say?¡±


    Josie lifted her head in despair. ¡°No¡­ I was set up. I went to discuss work with Laura yesterday.


    Then¡­¡±


    While she was going home, someone struck her from behind. This was thest memory Josie could


    recall as of then.


    Ofroire, Dexter krew Josie was set up. If she indeed cheated on him, she wouldn¡¯t possibiy allow these


    pictures to be released. He knew, but his heart still ached¡­


    When he saw the pictures of his wife engaging in intimate actions with another man, the pain could


    drive him to murder.


    Josie teared up quietly. Holding those pictures, she bit her lower lip so hard that it started bleeding. She


    forced herself to remember this moment of shame, reminding herself that she had to ovee it and


    that no one could take her down.


    ¡°You¡¯re my wife. Now, the whole world knows you¡¯ve had an affair with another man. I¡¯m utterly


    embarrassed. But Jo, have you thought of your reputation?¡±


    He crouched down and cupped Josie¡¯s face. The strong smell of cigarettes wafted into Josie¡¯s nose.


    His gaze was gloomy and terrifying. ¡°Now, tell me, who is that man? Did you sleep with him?!¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind went nk. The pungent smell made her nauseous, but she turned away to hide. her


    miserable appearance from Dexter.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her rationality urged her not to reveal Arnold¡¯s name. She must not do that!


    Did we sleep together¡­


    Josie broke down, but her expression remained calm. Her eyes were hollow, looking like a child who


    had lost her way home.


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Her response was thest straw. No man on earth could tolerate an incident like this, let alone Dexter,


    a man who stood at the pinnacle of society. His possessiveness and faithfulness were extreme. No one


    could touch what belonged to him!


    Not only did the man defile his woman, but he also spread the evidence to the public, posing an utter


    humiliation to Dexter.

 Chapter 771 A Publicly-known ‘Affair’

    Chapter 771 A Publicly-known ¡®Affair¡¯


    Josie was the woman he treasured, and once joyfully kissed every inch of her skin as he murmured,


    ¡°Jo, you¡¯re mine.¡±


    Standing on the highest floor of the revered skyscraper, Dexter¡¯s body stiffened as he gazed. at his


    beloved woman. His umted emotions were about to erupt. ¡°Jo, I might have let you down. But


    how could you? How could you do this to me?¡±


    Dexter noticed the kiss marks on Josie¡¯s neck, while Josie witnessed Dexter¡¯s red-rimmed.


    ¡°Your reputation, your father¡¯s reputation, and the Russells¡¯ reputation¡­ Do you not care about any of


    them anymore?!¡±


    Josie knelt on the floor weakly, lifting her head to force her tears back. She knew someone. wanted to


    destroy her.


    After the tears and pain, this incident had to be handled urgently, especially for the Russell Group¡¯s


    sake.


    It was the twenty-first of the month, a day after Dexter¡¯s twenty-seventh birthday.


    At two in the afternoon, the Russell Group held a press conference, where Dexter appeared. alongside


    Josie to address the public.


    Although his heart was already shattered into pieces, Dexter remainedposed as always. No one


    knew he had shed tears a few hours ago.


    The reporters presented the viral pictures of Josie and another man, whose appearance was pixted,


    and bombarded the couple with harsh questions.


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand tightly with a hint of anger on his face. ¡°My wife and I have known. each other


    for years, with deep affection. She would never have an affair with another man. Let¡¯s be real even if


    she indeed has an affair, she wouldn¡¯t allow the pictures to be exposed. No matter who the mastermind


    is, I¡¯ll definitely not let the person off.¡±


    Of course, Dexter had to pursue the matter. Everyone was criticizing Josie. The spectators gossiped


    about her explicit pictures andck of shame while spection about Dexter¡¯s intention ran rampant.


    There is nothing new under the sun, especially scandals in the upper circle. Most remained unrevealed,


    but Josie¡¯s case, which was made known to the public, was unprecedented.


    Facing countless cameras and non-stop shing lights, Josie could imagine what was being spread


    across the Inte now. She couldn¡¯t copse, yet she couldn¡¯t feel a tinge of warmth. from Dexter¡¯s


    hand, which was tightly holding hers.


    The media targeted Josie, demanding a statement from her.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie gripped Dexter¡¯s hand and forced a presentable smile. ¡°The police have started their


    investigation. Once the truth is revealed, I don¡¯t mind sharing it with the public. My¡­¡±


    She paused, wanting to say that her conscience was clear but couldn¡¯t bring herself to say so. ¡°I¡¯ll deal


    the culprit a mighty blow.¡±


    Dexter did not look at Josie but made a stern warning. ¡°I¡¯d like to urge everyone, including those who


    are watching this live stream, to stop spreading my wife¡¯s pictures and delete them. immediately. I¡¯ll


    forcefully take them down if this continues.¡±


    A few acknowledged Dexter¡¯s unwavering support toward Josie, but they didn¡¯t know that after the


    press conference, Dexter instantly let go of Josie¡¯s hand and instructed Moses to send her back to


    Mason Garden.


    Then, he ordered the secretary¡¯s office to remove all pictures on the Inte and suspend the ounts


    which continued posting the pictures.

 Chapter 772 Wash Herself Clean

    Chapter 772 Wash Herself Clean


    Josie was hot under the cor, perceiving Dexter¡¯s immense disappointment. It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t


    trust her; it was that whether she was set up or not, as a man, Dexter couldn¡¯t ept his wife sleeping


    with another man, let alone her explicit pictures being exposed to the public.


    Josie dismissed her initial thought of pleading with Dexter to rescue Arnold. Given the current situation,


    Dexter would definitely kill Arnold!


    She didn¡¯t get into Moses¡¯ car. ¡°I¡¯d like to take a walk.¡±


    Moses was exasperated. ¡°Please don¡¯t look for trouble again at this point in time.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face was white as a sheet. She smirked bitterly. ¡°Am I looking for trouble?¡±


    It was already summer, but she still felt cold.


    Josie insisted on walking on her own. So, Moses had no choice but to follow her in his car.


    She walked back to Mason Garden while pondering the incident, thinking about who the culprit could


    be. She even considered Ava but still couldn¡¯t figure out who was capable of orchestrating such a


    grand scheme.


    Josie remained rational. Late at night, she sat at the stairways in front of Mason Garden and stared into


    the distance under the porch light while expressionlessly ruling out each person with suspicion.


    The enforced rationality made her mind a mess. Before this, she took a two-hours bath, desperately


    wanting to wash herself clean. She couldn¡¯t even bear to look at the mark on her neck, and the scene


    where Dexter let go of her hand repeatedly reyed in her mind.


    Dexter was truly angry this time. He confiscated everything she could use to contact the outside world


    and confined her in the vi, isting her from the world¡­.


    Because she had embarrassed him.


    Josie was locked in Mason Garden for the next three days. All servants were dismissed. Besides Julie,


    who would drop by regrly, no one else stepped foot in Mason Garden.


    Josie was in a tight spot and didn¡¯t dare to trust anyone. The unknown fate made her feel like. one on


    the chopping board, which others could ughter as they wished.


    After a few days, she still couldn¡¯t contact Dexter and didn¡¯t know how public opinion was shaping up


    outside. So, she secretly sneaked out when Julie came to prepare meals.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She wanted to borrow a passerby¡¯s phone to call Arnold and check in on him, but when she entered a


    supermarket with a mask on, she suddenly heard someone discussing her. ¡°Hey, do you still have


    pictures of Dexter Russell¡¯s wife? I can¡¯t find them online anymore.¡±


    ¡°Who would allow others to see their wife like that, let alone Dexter Russell.¡± The lewd man guffawed.


    ¡°But I¡¯ve saved them already. Let me send them to you. Haha!TM


    ¡°She looks innocent. Who knows, she¡¯s actually a sl*t!¡±


    Josie froze at the entrance of the supermarket when she heard the conversation. The two men saw her


    when they lifted their gazes but didn¡¯t recognize her. So, they left after paying at the counter.


    The cashier looked at Josie in confusion. ¡°Miss, how can I help you?¡±


    Is that how everyone is talking about me? Josie felt like her heart was squeezed into a jar of vinegar


    and bitterness. It was so painful that she almost couldn¡¯t catch her breath. She mumbled softly with a


    cracking voice, ¡°Nothing. Sorry for disturbing you.¡±


    Then, she ran away.


    She ran all the way back to Mason Garden, where she could iste herself so that no one would


    witness her miserable and humiliated self.


    When she finally arrived at Mason Garden, she leaned against the wall and heaved deep breaths. She


    closed her eyes and attempted to push all the maliciousments behind her. She kept convincing


    herself that she could ovee this because she was someone who had weathered the storms and


    urged herself to forget about the hurtful remarks..

 Chapter 773 Cuckolded

    Chapter 773 Cuckolded


    Josie squatted down all of a sudden. Forget about it? How is that possible? Has Dexter been subjected


    to such gossip, too, the past few days when I didn¡¯t dare to step out of the house?


    Although Josie came from an ordinary family, she received proper education since she was. young,


    doing what was right and avoiding what was wrong. Her conscience was clear all the while, but it was


    as if her rtionship was cursed.


    She knew how destructive this incident could be, like apleted painting being sshed with a


    bucket of ink.


    After crouching outside the fence for a long time, Josie finally regained her senses. She got onto her


    feet arduously. Her leg was numb on one side, so she stayed on the ground in a bizarre posture. Just


    then, she lifted her eyes and saw Dexter standing not far away.


    He wore a ck blouse as usual. Josie couldn¡¯t see his expression clearly but could sense the tension


    despite the distance. She wondered how long Dexter had been watching her.


    The world seemed to lose its color. Josie took off her hat and listlessly brushed her hair to the back.


    She couldn¡¯t care less about facing Dexter in such a state. Then, she stood up and walked back to


    Mason Garden, but Dexter didn¡¯t follow her.


    Thereafter, he no longer detained her. There was no one guarding outside Mason Garden. Josie


    became more flustered being left alone. It was times like this that could drive one. insane.


    That night, Josie ran away again. She couldn¡¯t let time slip away like this.


    Dexter was sitting in his car when he saw Josie leave the vi. His fatigued look became more eminent


    after numerous sleepless nights.


    Larry furrowed his brows. ¡°Is it okay to let Mrs. Russell leave just like that?¡±


    Dexter was resting in the back seat. He rubbed his temples and did not answer. Momentster, he lifted


    his hand. ¡°Have you found that person?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°Beat him to death once you find him.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Larry looked at the exhausted man in the rearview mirror and couldn¡¯t help swearing inwardly. He had


    followed Dexter for many years and dealt with all kinds ofplicated situations but had never seen


    Dexter in such a difficult time.


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    In the past few days, he was like a walking dead, as if his mind and soul were removed from his body.


    The Russell Group was shrouded in gloom, and everyone was cursing Josie behind her back. The


    company¡¯s stock price plummeted, and the new project was also affected. It was Dexter, the man who


    had been cuckolded, who worked relentlessly to salvage the situation.


    Meanwhile, Josie went to find Laura.


    Laura had expected Josie¡¯s arrival and quickly invited her into the house. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t muster an expression. ¡°Can I stay at your ce for a couple of days?¡±


    ¡°Silly girl, of course.¡± Laura sighed. ¡°Do you need me to apany you?¡±


    Laura didn¡¯t ask other questions, knowing what Josie was most concerned about.


    Josie shook her head. She was finally relieved to be in a safe space. She curled up in the bed and


    finally managed to get some sleep.


    However, an iing call from Rivodia woke her up. She was startled for a moment before. answering


    the call.


    The caller remained silent. Josie couldn¡¯t help blurting, ¡°Arnold, is that you?¡±


    Finally, a strange yet familiar voice emerged. ¡°I thought Dexter would be your first guess.¡±


    Josie was bbergasted. ¡°Morgan!¡±


    ¡°I bet both of them will be upset.¡±


    Josie hung up immediately.

 Chapter 774 Did We Have Sex

    Chapter 774 Did We Have Sex


    Morgan called again with another phone. ¡°Josie, you¡¯ll suffer being with either of them.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Then, she hung up again. This time, Morgan stopped calling.


    Laura came into the room and said, ¡°Hey, there¡¯s a call for you?¡±


    Josie became nervous, and her hand trembled slightly. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s from the hospital.¡±


    Surprised, Josie answered the call to realize it was Andy. ¡°Hi, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Mr. Carter is hospitalized.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand trembled more intensely. ¡°Wasn¡¯t he in Rivodia? How did hee back?¡±


    Andy remained silent briefly before saying, ¡°He was badly injured when he returned.¡±


    Thinking of how Arnold was tortured by Wayne in Rivodia, Josie hadplicated feelings.


    Finally, she asked, ¡°Is he awake? Can you pass the phone him, please?¡±


    ¡°Give it to me.¡± Arnold¡¯s voice emerged from the other end. After a hissing noise, she heard. Arnold¡¯s


    voice. ¡°Stay where you are, and don¡¯te out. Don¡¯t bother with the rumors.¡±


    Josie was flustered. ¡°Arnold, what exactly happened that day?¡±


    Arnold fell silent momentarily before humming, ¡°I have no idea either.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart ached when she heard the response. It was embarrassing for her to ask the following


    question, but she did. ¡°Did we¡­ have sex?¡±


    There was a moment of silence before Arnold¡¯s voice came forth, which was tinged with a hint of


    apology. ¡°Is that what you¡¯re concerned about? Or, you¡¯re concerned about what Dexter thinks?¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Someone spiked my drink. I nearly lost consciousness, so I¡¯m unsure if we had sex. Are you happy


    with this answer?¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    Arnold ended the call abruptly.


    Josie walked out of Laura¡¯s room and returned the phone to her. Laura poured her a cup of warm


    water. ¡°Jo, would you like to sleep for a while more?¡±


    Josie shook her head. Laura uttered, ¡°The rumors out there are very harsh.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    Josie saw somements from theizens just now. The incident caused a sensation in the city.


    Some said that Dexter had summoned hiswyer and would divorce her soon, while others reckoned


    for the sake of the Russell Group¡¯s stock price and to prove their strong husband-wife rtionship, they


    wouldn¡¯t divorce immediately.


    All kinds of rumors were flying.


    It was even rumored that this incident had unnerved the entire Russell family.


    Sometimeter, Arnold contacted Josie again and apologized as soon as the call was connected. ¡°I


    shouldn¡¯t have gotten mad at you. I¡¯m sorry. If we indeed had sex, I¡¯ll take the responsibility.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t answer. Arnold continued, ¡°Dexter is admitted to the hospital.¡±


    Josie was at a loss for words..


    Everyone¡¯s body had its limit. After prolonged exhaustion, Dexter had finally fallen sick.


    When Josie arrived, Larry was outside the ward. The door was left ajar, so Josie could see


    his hand. He seemed to have fallen asleep.


    Dexter lying in the bed with a tube.


    Larry was distressed to see the couple in such a state. His voice cracked. ¡°Mrs. Russell, please tell me


    who that man is.¡±


    Josie retracted her gaze while Larry continued, ¡°Mr. Russell has mobilized all our resources. in Wavery.


    The man will suffer a dire consequence once caught.¡±


    Sitting beside the ward bed, Josie carefully observed Dexter¡¯s countenance. His obvious dark. circles


    made him look even weaker. She involuntarily reached out her hand to touch his, but before their skin


    came into contact, she cautiously pulled her hand back.

 Chapter 775 An Unfaithful Wife Is as Good as a Prostitute

    Chapter 775 An Unfaithful Wife Is as Good as a Prostitute


    She didn¡¯t know what she was thinking as her mind was cluttered.


    After some time, Josie could no longer fight tiredness and fell asleep by the bed. She was so stressed


    that she could break down anytime.


    When Dexter woke up, he caught a familiar scent. He turned to the side and saw the woman whom he


    had missed terribly. He closed his eyes, feeling a throbbing pain in his brows.


    Enduring the pain, he found his jacket and gently draped it over Josie. His face turned red as he


    suppressed his coughing, so he wouldn¡¯t wake her up.


    Josie woke up after a short while and saw Larry adjusting Dexter¡¯s IV drip, so she thought Larry had


    put the jacket on her. Feeling bitter, she thanked him softly, thinking Dexter had not woken up.


    She stood up and left the ward. Before that, she exhorted Larry not to tell Dexter she had visited.


    Larry had not been in a rtionship and couldn¡¯t understand the dynamics between the couple. When


    he boldly asked Dexter, thetter stared nkly at the door, clenching his fists. and coughing. His eyes


    were filled with agony. ¡°She¡¯ll feel embarrassed.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie didn¡¯t leave the hospital but decided to undergo an examination, which would require


    her to swallow her pride and dignity.


    Xanthe soon received the news of Dexter¡¯s hospitalization.


    She arrived at the ward alone, looking proud and confident, which made one recall her vehemence


    back then when she temporarily took over the position of the Russell Group¡¯s chairman.


    Her anger was palpable.


    ¡°You should divorce her.¡± This was the first thing she said to Dexter.


    Dexter had gotten up, leaning against the bed and reviewing some documents. He lifted his eyes


    wearily and said, ¡°The situation has yet to be rified.¡±


    Xanthe was flustered. ¡°What else do you want to rify? At the press conference, you. didn¡¯t confirm if


    the pictures were photoshopped. They are real, aren¡¯t they? The rumors are true. Am I right?!¡±


    Xanthe pushed away the ss of water served by the servant and red up.


    ¡°As an outsider, I could tell your marriage has had issues for some time. Look at what happens now.


    Tell me, how are you going to salvage thepany¡¯s stock price andpensate the business


    partners? Foreignpetitors and politicians have always been. eyeing you. How do you n to hold


    out this time?!¡±


    Dexter listened quietly until Xanthe finished speaking. Then, he removed his sses aloofly and put


    them aside. ¡°What do all these have to do with you? I can handle it.¡±


    Xanthe remained silent for a moment before saying gloomily, ¡°If your father knew this, he wouldn¡¯t


    agree for you to continue this marriage.¡±


    At the mention of his father, Dexter shot a fierce re at Xanthe. ¡°You have no right to bring. him up.


    Moreover, he wasn¡¯t an unreasonable man!¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Xanthe sneered. ¡°This isn¡¯t even about being reasonable or not. Let me ask you, if she indeed. slept


    with another man, won¡¯t you feel ufortable being with her moving forward?¡±


    She knew her son well. Ever since he was young, he had been using all the best and most unique


    things. Now that Josie was tainted by someone else¡­


    Dexter gulped, feeling his heart squeezed.


    He wouldn¡¯t mind giving his kingdom up to anyone who was capable of vying for it, but Josie was


    untouchable. He could abandon everything for anything that was rted to her.


    Perceiving his silence, Xanthe blurted mercilessly, ¡°An unfaithful wife is as good as a prostitute. Think


    about it.¡±


    ¡®Bang!¡¯


    Suddenly, Dexter swept everything off the bedside table. Like a trapped beast in a cage, he was


    provoked, emanating a ferocious and deadly aura.


    ¡°Get out!¡±

 Chapter 776 I Risked My Life for You

    Chapter 776 I Risked My Life for You


    In the corridor outside the ward, Josie leaned weakly against the wall. Her chest was heaving. Perhaps


    the wall was too cold; she felt like crying when she touched it. Her gaze was vacant. She forced a


    reason to console herself fortunately, it was the VIP ward, so there was no one. around to witness her


    breakdown.


    Momentster, she heard Xanthe¡¯s voice emerging inside the ward. ¡°Do you really not n to get a


    divorce?¡±


    Josie slowly crumpled the diagnosis report in her hand and finally clenched it in her fist.


    Soon, she met Arnold. It was a sunny day. Standing outside the hospital and watching the bustling


    street, Josie was bewildered.


    Then, she got into Arnold¡¯s car.


    ¡°How are you?¡±


    ¡°Still surviving.¡± Arnold passed a packet of snacks to Josie and drew closer to examine her eyes. ¡°You


    look really pale.¡±


    Josie felt his forehead with the back of her hand. ¡°What was that drug? Are there any side. effects?¡±


    Arnold pinched her chin and giggled. ¡°Are you worried about me?¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Alive and kicking, and there¡¯s no addiction developed.¡± Seeing Josie wasn¡¯t eating, he opened


    the packet and sent a piece of snack to her mouth. ¡°I was drugged in a cafe. I¡¯ve instructed my men to


    find leads. Also, I managed to trace the IP address of the person who released the pictures, but the


    location was overseas. It¡¯ll take some time to locate them.¡±


    Josie had no appetite. Looking at her reflection in the car window, she could barely recognize herself in


    this miserable state.


    ¡°Poor girl.¡± Feeling sorry for her, Arnold hit her forehead with the back of his hand and pinched her soft


    earlobe tofort her.


    ¡°All the pictures on the Inte have been removed. The newspapers published were destroyed too. I¡¯ll


    find the mastermind.¡±


    ¡°This matter is unrted to you, so please stop meddling with it,¡± Josie uttered coldly. ¡°I haven¡¯t met


    you, not in the past and not in the future.¡±


    With that, Josie was about to get out of the car but was called upon by Arnold. ¡°I risked my life for you


    in Rivodia. Isn¡¯t that worth repaying?¡±


    Josie was stunned. She had said that as long as Arnold asked, she would do anything for him.


    Josie sat back down and asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk about it next time.¡± Arnold¡¯s interest waned. He looked outside the window and saw Summer


    arriving at the hospital, wearing high heels. Thetter stood still when she saw Arnold¡¯s car.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Arnold remarked mysteriously, ¡°Dexter¡¯s men are searching for me. I reckon they are suspicious of


    something.¡±


    Josie was startled. ¡°The culprit deliberately pixted your appearance. He clearly didn¡¯t want. to


    expose your identity. Things will get out of hand if your identity is exposed. Arnold, can I boldly assume


    you¡¯re in cahoots with them?¡±


    Josie stared fixedly into Arnold¡¯s eyes when she asked the question, while Arnold did not. avoid her


    gaze.


    Arching his brows, he took out a pile of medical certificates and medicines. ¡°You think I put my life on


    the line just to mess with you? You think too highly of yourself. Dexter would have caught me if he


    wanted to. I didn¡¯t have to take such a huge risk.¡± Arnold said genuinely with a rueful smile, which


    made Josie struggle to finish her questions. She had no reason to continue probing, nor should she.


    She nodded and put on her mask before getting out of the car and walking past the surprised.

 Chapter 777 Seeing Another Woman

    Chapter 777 Seeing Another Woman


    Josie and Dexter had not contacted each other in the next few days.


    Josie stayed in Mason Garden and didn¡¯t ask about anything. Laura had interactions with. Dexter for


    business matters, so Josie asionally received updates from Laura about Dexter. He was swamped


    with work. The Russell Group was now in deep waters as crises came one after another. Everyone was


    specting how long Dexter could hold out.


    Rumors said that this incident had impacted the Russell Group¡¯s cash flow and that Dexter had injected


    a substantial amount of his own money. Foreign investors seized the opportunity to make an offer¡¯ to


    acquire shares in thepany worth millions.


    Josie eagerly listened to Laura¡¯s updates. Finally, one day, she received news about Dexter that wasn¡¯t


    work-rted it was reported that Dexter was seeing another woman.


    The articles were sensational, iming the woman was the recently found daughter of the Olsen family


    and the future heir, someone more important than Summer.


    It was said that after encountering setbacks in both his rtionship and work, Dexter finally lost control


    and vented his emotions toward the woman. Thereafter, rumors emerged. Some had it that he was


    disappointed in Josie.


    Regardless of whether the news was true, Heather indeed existed, and Josie knew it better. than


    anyone else.


    One day, Josie sat alone in the empty meeting room on the top floor of the Russell Group¡¯s building.


    She didn¡¯t intend to meet Dexter but stared nkly out of the window. Suddenly, someone knocked on


    the door ¨C it was an old acquaintance.


    Heather had cut her hair, looking innocent. She had quitted the job, yet she could enter the building as


    she wished. Josie knew Dexter never allowed irrelevant people to step foot on the top floor.


    Heather greeted Josie courteously as if she was the host. ¡°Hi, there.¡±


    She exined with a smile, ¡°The rumors about Dex and I aren¡¯t true. I was worried about him, so I


    followed him. The reporters happened to capture pictures of us that night when we left the office, so¡­


    By the way, Dex is not in now, so don¡¯t wait for him.¡±


    She was more aware of Dexter¡¯s schedule than Josie.


    Josie smirked as she perceived Heather¡¯s intention in her words.


    ¡°You¡¯re very thoughtful, Ms. Olsen, hanging around the office so often as if you have nothing else to


    do.¡±


    There was a sudden change in Heather¡¯s expression, but she quickly regained herposure. ¡°Father


    doesn¡¯t allow me to be involved in any work-rted matters.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie frowned. ¡°I see. It seems like you¡¯re not ambitious at all. Your family¡¯s assets are going to be


    carved up soon. I would be worried if my daughter was this insouciant.¡±


    Her gaze was fixed on Heather as she minced her words.


    Heather was not provoked. ¡°Mrs. Russell, how have you been emotionally? I know a famous.


    psychiatrist. He can definitely help alleviate your mood.¡±


    At the mention of a psychiatrist, Josie was reminded of Morgan. She retracted her. hummed, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    It was a chilly night. Josie was sleepless, lying on the bed. After many days of waiting, someone finally


    opened the door. At the same time, a strong odor of alcohol wafted into. Josie¡¯s nose.


    A slight cold palm gently brushed her long hair from behind, followed by soft kisses on her neck,


    cheeks, and ears, brimming with passionate desire.


    Dexter¡¯s hoarse, yearnful voice came forth, calling her name.


    Josie¡¯s back stiffened and only rxed momentster. She embraced the man who was pressing


    against her. His eyes, carrying a hint of drunkenness, were like stars in the winter, causing Josie to be


    filled with despair and guilt as she looked at him.


    Half-drunk, he muttered, ¡°I didn¡¯t cheat on you.

 Chapter 778 Let’s Get a Divorce

    Chapter 778 Let¡¯s Get a Divorce


    Intoxicated with alcohol, Dexter was aggrieved like a child. ¡°There¡¯s really nothing between. Heather


    and I.¡±


    This was the first intimate interaction they had after many days.


    Dexter had the confidence to exin himself, but thetter didn¡¯t.


    Dexter began hastily removing her clothes, tearing off her sleepwear. He was eagerly trying to prove


    something. Josie allowed him to do as he pleased and let out a moan. Thereafter, the man¡¯s movement


    suddenly stopped, and he stopped gazing at her. Momentster, he gripped Josie¡¯s hair and covered


    her eyes. This time, Josie heard his muffled moan.


    It was the first time he had lost hisposure in front of her.


    ¡°Dexter, I suspect Heather.¡± Josie blurted out of the blue.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    There was a moment of silence before Dexter frowned. ¡°It can¡¯t be her.¡±


    Josie sat up immediately and looked at him in the moonlight. ¡°She¡¯s now the daughter of the Olsen


    family, so she has the power to do so. Besides, I fired her. She might be resentful and could¡­¡±


    Dexter held Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°Jo, do you have any evidence?¡±


    Josie was dumbstruck. Indeed, she didn¡¯t have any substantive evidence. ¡°I¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression stiffened. After a while, he caressed her hair. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t do that. Rest. well.¡±


    With that, he left the master bedroom. His trust in Heather was boundless.


    Lying on the bed, Josie was overwhelmed with destion as tears streamed down her cheeks. She


    thought of Paul again. If he were around, he would surely trust her.


    As dawn broke, the morning sun shone upon the fully-bloomed summer flowers in the


    arden. Josie finally got up and put on makeup in front of the huge mirror in the bathroom. The mirror


    reflected her delicate gestures and wless contours.


    She took her phone and typed out a message. She hesitated for a long time before finally pressing the


    send button..


    ¡®Let¡¯s get a divorce.¡±


    At that time, Dexter had sole control over the Russell Group. As such, it was difficult for foreign


    investors to venture into the conglomerate. However, if they took advantage of thepany¡¯s


    vulnerable situation during a crisis to use leverage to buy its shares and join forces with other domestic


    enterprises to aggressively target the Russell Group, Dexter might not be able to hold out despite his


    power.


    After Josie¡¯s incident, the Russell Group had lost its market value by thirty percent. Such loss. was


    severe damage to thepany. As one of the top conglomerates, once the Russell Group was


    breached by foreign investors, it couldn¡¯t escape the fate of being disintegrated or restructured. If that


    happened, the conglomerate would be worthless.


    As for the political circles, Dexter had seized many interests from various political figures. and offended


    many of them while acting as the CEO. If the politicians chose to align with foreign investors to tackle


    the Russell Group at the national level, the situation would. be more devastating.


    Apparently, they wouldn¡¯t stay out of the matter and act like saints.


    Foreign investors¡¯ bearish attitude toward the Russell Group caused dissatisfaction among market


    traders. However, the securitiesmission promptly responded, iming that the foreign investor¡¯s


    funding was legitimate and there was no suspicion of insider trading. Ast long as the investorsplied


    with relevant regtions, themission would not intervene.


    The Carter Group¡¯s tackle on the Russell Group was particrly aggressive. Dexter had stayed in the


    office the past three days to monitor the stock market. He was truly stretched thin.


    At the same time, many market traders in the exchange had grown weary. As long as the aftermath of


    Josie¡¯s incident was not resolved, there was no way they could salvage the stock market¡¯s condition.


    One day, Larry seized a brief moment to update Dexter about Josie. ¡°Mr. Russell, Mrs. Russel has left


    Mason Garden.¡±

 Chapter 779 Divorce? Don’t Even Think About It!

    Chapter 779 Divorce? Don¡¯t Even Think About It!


    Holding a pen, Dexter¡¯s hand paused briefly before he continued signing a document while exerting


    more force. ¡°Contact Moses and get him to shadow her. He¡¯ll be responsible if anything goes wrong¡±


    Larry sighed inwardly. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Dexter attempted to detach all subsidiarypanies in the stock market under the Russell Group so


    that they wouldn¡¯t be affected. Even if foreign investors stepped in, they wouldn¡¯t gain much. He had


    prepared for the worst. This wasn¡¯t his typical style. However, at this critical juncture, no one else would


    be able to handle things as he did.


    Laura was overworked recently and ended up being hospitalized. That day, Josie went to visit her.


    The twodies tacitly remained in an unspoken silence, giving each other a safe space.


    It waste at night. Finally, Laura couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. ¡°How has Dexter been to you?


    After the incident, besides the initial anger and disappointment, he had been pretty good toward Josie.


    Josie fell silent for quite a while before squeezing a stiff smile. ¡°I¡¯m going to divorce him.¡±


    Laura¡¯s eyes widened in shock, ¡°Have you signed the agreement?¡±


    The answer was no. Josie initiated the divorce, but Dexter hadn¡¯t replied to that particr message


    after so many days or mentioned the divorce at all.


    Little did she know Dexter had indeed received her message promptly, and he smashed his phone


    upon. reading it.


    At that time, he was in a meeting. The top executives witnessed him losing his cool. After smashing his


    phone, he smirked. ¡°Divorce? Don¡¯t even think about it!¡±


    Around the same time, the Carter Group revealed a statement of change in equity, proving that aside.


    from the four hundred billion mary funds, they had pre-initial public offering stocks valued at three


    hundred billion. Combined, they had over seven hundred billion to acquire the Russell Group¡¯s shares.


    Apany¡¯s total assets are equal to the sum of its liabilities and its shareholders¡¯ equity ¨C this


    equation always holds true.


    The Carter Group was listed on the United States stock inarket and was equally a financially strong


    conglomerate. As the Carter Group and the Russell Group went head-to-head, one party would


    inevitably be damaged. In the past few days, the Carter Group had undoubtedly garnered support from


    the majority of market yers as thetter continued increasing their stock holdings. In the next two


    trading days, the Carter Group¡¯s stock price reached its limit-up. Some analysts alleged that Arnold


    was making a strongeback and was almost sessful.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The cranberry nts in the hospital¡¯s garden bore plenty of fruit. Early in the morning, dew formed on -


    the fruits. Standing on her tiptoes, Josie plucked a cranberry and tasted it. It was so sour that she spit it


    out. .


    When she lifted her eyes again, she was startled to see a man standing beside a car not far away. His


    features were distinct, and his expression was cold. He had been staring fixedly at Josie, yet Josie


    couldn¡¯t read his mind.


    After quite a while, he approached Josie and embraced her. ¡°Come home with me.¡±


    His voice was hoarse, probably because he had been having numerous meetings.


    Josie attempted to push him away. ¡°Did you receive my message?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± He answered instantly, tightening his grip on Josie.


    Josie closed her eyes. ¡°How¡¯s Russell Group?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    A prolonged silence followed. Josie stared nkly into the distance. She allowed Dexter to hold him for


    a long time before saying, ¡°Dexter, let¡¯s get a divorce.¡±


    The man was stirred up at once. Towering over her, he seized her shoulders. His eyes became


    bloodshot, filled with anger. ¡°Why?¡±


    Thinking Josie was worried that the incident would affect their rtionship, he hurriedly exined,


    ¡°Don¡¯t concern yourself with those matters. I¡¯m not concerned, either. I¡¯ll talk to my family, and I can


    also handle the public, Or are you worried about the impact on thepany.


    Josie interrupted him. ¡°Do you think I¡¯ve slept with him? Do you trust me?¡±

 Chapter 780 He Refused to Divorce

    Chapter 780 He Refused to Divorce


    Dexter stared fixedly at Josie with a stern visage. The pictures were so explicit that they could


    completely shatter Dexter¡¯s willpower. Did he trust Josie? His rationality was urging him to give a firm


    answer, yet he couldn¡¯t utter a single word.


    Josie forced a smile and broke the silence thoughtfully. I can understand if you don¡¯t trust me.¡±


    She pulled away from him and took a step back with her guards on. The aftermath of this incident is


    massive. Even the Russell Group is affected. We have to divorce to minimize the losses.¡±¡°


    Dexter had never imagined that they would end up at this point one day.


    ¡°No matter what, I won¡¯t divorce.¡± He uttered each word firmly.


    ¡°What


    ¡°What if I say I feel disgusted being with you? I hate how you always side with outsiders and how


    you¡¯re always busy with work. I hate being your wife. If it weren¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t lose my father. I


    hate you,


    Dexter.¡±


    Josie¡¯s words pierced Dexter¡¯s heart like a merciless sword. Dexter¡¯s expression remained unchanged.


    He simply suspected he had misheard or that the person in front of him wasn¡¯t Josie.


    Instantly, his gentle demeanor was reced with ferocity. A gust of wind swept by at that moment,


    Causing Dexter to narrow his eyes. A man¡¯s dignity couldn¡¯t be challenged. He emphatically gripped


    Josic¡¯s chin and drew close to her. His miserable expression disappeared as he spat through gritted


    teeth, ¡°I won¡¯t agree to a divorce. Just wait, Josie Warren. If staying by my side makes you feel


    disgusted, so be it. We¡¯re six of one and half a dozen of the other.¡±


    With that, Dexter left. Josie felt a warm water droplet fall on the back of her hand. She lowered her


    head to look at it and touched the corner of her eyes. It was dry she did not tear.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The man who walked away, the business magnate, remainedposed and hostile even in such


    circumstances as if he was invincible.


    How would he possibly tear?


    Muchter, ording to Larry¡¯s recollections, this was the most difficult time for Dexter.


    Outsiders were eyeing the Russell Group. His wife was defiled and subjected to all kinds of malicious


    comments. It was an ineffable humiliation. However, as he was doing all he could, putting aside his


    pride to protect his wife, she chose to divorce him at this very moment.


    If they divorced, the Russell Group¡¯s market value would continue to plummet. Josie was driving Dexter


    into a corner,


    Larry couldn¡¯t understand how Josie could be this cruel.


    Dexter continued monitoring the stock prices back in his office and refused to rest no matter how


    others. urged him to. He tried to escape his frustration and heartache through difficulties and work.


    Dexter had never expected to be the loser whenpeting who could be more heartless.


    Josie did not return to the ward but sat in the corridor. Next to her, an old couple was supporting each


    other, both receiving IV drips.


    Seeing her depressed look, they waved at her. ¡°Youngdy, are you facing some troubles?¡±


    Looking at the couple, Josie put her hands together to cover that trace of the tear.


    She wore a rueful smile. ¡°Mm-hmm.¡±


    ¡°Cheer up. There¡¯s nothing in this world that can¡¯t be ovee.¡±


    Josie inhaled deeply. ¡°I¡­ made a terrible mistake and lost my marriage.¡±


    The couple exchanged loving nces before the old man asked, ¡°Do you know how we met?¡±

 Chapter 781 An Apology

    Chapter 781 An Apology


    Josie was taken aback, and she thought about their era¡¯s context. ¡°Was it a blind date?¡±


    ¡°Yes. In that era, arranged marriages weremon. In the blink of an eye, several decades have


    passed.¡± He sighed nostalgically and continued, ¡°Looking back, there was actually no love between us


    at the beginning. But it was quite enjoyable to live that way, with quarrels and fuss, negotiations and


    compromises.¡±


    Josie burst intoughter upon hearing that.


    ¡°I remember the fiercest argument I ever had with her was when I wanted to resign and go teach


    voluntarily in another ce. Our child was only three years old then. We argued so fiercely that it felt


    like the house was about to copse.¡± He was reminiscing, and a hint of pride could be heard in his


    tone when he added, ¡°Guess what! In the end, I won the argument.


    The gentle elderly woman scoffed lightly. ¡°What¡¯s the point of winning an argument? You were only


    there for two days.¡±


    He expressed his dissatisfaction by saying, ¡°I missed the child.¡±


    In his youth, the elderly man was full of kindness and ambition. He thought his willpower would allow


    him to stay in the mountains for a long time, but unexpectedly, he copsed after just two days. When,


    people are alone, they don¡¯t care about anything, and they¡¯re willing to endure any hardship. However,


    once they encounter warmth and get used to that warmth, they be incredibly vulnerable.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°You must¡¯ve missed her too, right?¡±


    Upon hearing that, the elderly man and elderly woman exchanged nces. Even at their age, they


    could still feel a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°She has endured many hardships with me over the years,¡± he answered.


    Every day, she did the housework, took care of him, and made a living. She had been wholeheartedly


    devoted to that for many years.


    That wasn¡¯t just about what was written on paper. Instead, that perseverance was all it took. It also


    required a bold and powerful love.


    Everyone wanted to live a peaceful life with the ones they cared about. In the end, they would hold


    each other¡¯s hand tightly before death, promising that if there was a next life, they would still want to be


    together.


    Yet, that was something hard toe by in the modern era.


    The elderly man held Josie¡¯s hand and looked at her with a solemn expression. ¡°Youngdy, did I hear


    you. say that you¡¯ve lost your marriage?¡±


    -Josie was slightly dazed. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Did he not treat you well?¡±


    How should I put it? Since our marriage, Dexter has been very good to me, so good that I feel he is the


    second man in this world, after Pop, to treat me this well. Suddenly, Josie couldn¡¯t control her


    trembling. She slowly bent over her knees, seeking a sense of belonging. It was as if a movie was


    ying in her mind, with various characters making their appearances.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one who owes him an apology,¡± Josie replied.


    Two dayster, under Laura¡¯s persuasion, Josie went to the studio to distract herself with some work.


    However, as soon as she stepped out of the ward, she looked up and saw Larry.


    She furrowed her brows, a flicker of surprise crossing her mind. Dexter¡¯s ward is also here. If Mr.


    Peeple is here, could it be that Dexter hasn¡¯t been discharged yet?


    Sure enough, as if arranged by fate, in the next second, Josie saw the man walking out of the ward.


    Hisplexion was worse than thest time they met, but when he stood before her, even though his


    edges had softened, his imposing presence was still there.


    Josie didn¡¯t know why she always felt fear in the face of his approach.


    Just three steps away, Josie regained herposure and pulled up a seemingly rxed smile. ¡°Hi, Mr.


    Russell. What a coincidence.¡±


    A pair of exquisite leather shoes came to a halt right before her eyes.


    Originally, Dexter was just silently staring at her. Upon hearing those words, his expression became


    even more gloomy. Suddenly, without warning, he moved closer, hisrge hand gripping her lower jaw


    He sneered, ¡°What are you afraid of?¡±

 Chapter 782 Strangle Her

    Chapter 782 Strangle Her


    Josie looked up.


    He removed her mask and asked, ¡°Are you afraid of being recognized? Have you done something


    shameful?¡±


    He spoke each word and sentence like a very angry, trapped beast.


    Josie was in severe pain from the chokehold. She struggled to p his hand away and called out,


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    He leaned forward, his coldughter reminiscent of an Epean vampire. ¡°You don¡¯t want to tell me who


    that man is. Is it because you know him? Not only do you know him, but I do too.¡±


    It was a derative sentence.


    Oxygen was gradually squeezed out from her lungs. Everything in sight suddenly became hazy, like a


    filming technique in a movie, filled with bizarre and colorful lights,


    Eventually, even his appearance became indistinguishable.


    He must have found something. Josie eventually calmed herself down.


    She decided to stop the pointless struggle. If Dexter wanted to strangle her, then so be it.


    It seemed as though he could sense the woman¡¯s will to live diminishing. Dexter opened his weary


    eyes, his rationality returning. In the end, he chose to let go,


    Suddenly, the strength drained away, causing a two-step retreat, teetering on the brink of copse. It


    was a rather sorry sight.


    Dexter clearly had no intention of letting her go. As he approached, his anger was not as abrupt as


    before, which made Josie even more afraid.


    He said, ¡°I want to strangle you to death so badly.


    After that, he couldn¡¯t help but say some hurtful words. ¡°However, even touching you makes me feel.


    dirty.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t possibly strangle her to death. Josie didn¡¯t dare to provoke this man on the brink of


    copse further. She kept her distance, clutching her neck and coughing forcefully. ¡°So, let¡¯s get a


    divorce. Your assets areplex. It would be better for you to draft the agreement.¡±


    Dressed in ck from head to toe, Dexter appeared somewhat hunched. He looked as if he had


    walked straight out of the apocalypse.


    He felt some regret because he didn¡¯t mean to hurt her. He was just too angry.


    -Josie looked at him calmly, without any anger or aggression. The more she looked at him that way, the


    more ufortable Dexter felt.


    ¡°Are you going to give up on me?¡± Dexter asked softly.


    Josie was almost suffocating, gritting her teeth as she nodded. ¡°Yes. Since you already know, I won¡¯t


    hide it anymore. If we continue like this, we can¡¯t return to how things were. I can give up everything,


    but I want to find Pop.¡±


    Dexter bit down hard on his back teeth, the taste of iron filling his mouth as his vision swirled before


    him.


    It was as if a chasm separated the two, making their connection feel unreal. The most tragic thing was


    the copse of one¡¯s public image, followed by the extinction of one¡¯s beliefs.


    ¡°Do you feel guilty toward me?¡± Dexter asked.


    Josie didn¡¯t even dare to take another look. Her expression was indifferent when she replied, ¡°I don¡¯t


    feel guilty at all.¡±


    She bent down to pick up the fallen mask. Before she could stand up, she heard Dexter¡¯s breath


    bing unsteady, and his voice was slightly sharp when he demanded, ¡°Don¡¯t pick it up.¡±


    Josie froze.


    ¡°I said don¡¯t pick it up. Did you hear me?¡± The tone was even more intense, still a derative sentence.


    With a sidelong nce, Josie looked at him, and a hint of emotion unexpectedly stirred within her heart.


    At that moment, Dexter seemed somewhat fragile, as if when she picked up the mask, something he


    had been persistently holding onto wouldpletely copse.


    The sunlight nted, time moved forward, and Josie finally tightened her hat, put it back on properly,


    stood up straight, and turned to leave.


    The man¡¯s seductive voice caught up with her. ¡°If you divorce me, you¡¯ll be the one at fault in the


    marriage. Russell Group¡¯s legal team will leave you penniless.¡±


    Yet, Josie didn¡¯t halt her steps. With an unusual determination, she continued to move forward, never


    looking back.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Give me a reason.¡± He wanted a reasonpelling enough for a divorce.


    Still, she didn¡¯t look back.


    The only response Dexter got was the silence of an entire corridor and the dust in the air gently falling.

 Chapter 783 Loyalty Unswerving

    Chapter 783 Loyalty Unswerving


    After parting ways with Dexter, life still had to go on. Josie understood that she should first settle down


    in Wavery, knowing that every subsequent event wouldn¡¯t be easy.


    When she arrived at the studio, she found only a handful of employees at their desks, including Angel


    and Jade. Josie was somewhat surprised. ¡°Why are there only a few of you?¡±


    Several people looked up in surprise. Among them, Angel was the most astonished, ¡°Ms. Jo! You¡¯re


    back!¡±


    Thest time they met was a thing of the distant past. That moment felt as if it had spanned. lifetimes.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie squeezed out a smile. ¡°I just got back. Is everything okay?¡±


    During the time when Paul went missing, she devoted herself entirely to the search,pletely


    unaware of the current operational status of the studio.


    Upon hearing that, several people exchanged nces, finding themselves in a bit of a predicament.


    Josie pulled out a chair and sat down. ¡°It¡¯s okay. Spill it.¡±


    ¡°Quite a few colleagues have already resigned a few days ago. The situation at the studio isn¡¯t good.


    Didn¡¯t Ms. Brandel tell you?¡± Jade reported cautiously, ¡°Now there are only four of us left in the studio,


    plus Alice, who¡¯s out discussing coborations, making it five.¡±


    Josie reminisced about the grand opening of her studio, andparing it to the present, it really felt


    like people hardly had loyalty.


    She shed a bitter smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. My issues have caused trouble for everyone.¡±


    She feared that if her personal information was dug up byizens, it would inevitably involve her


    studio. Laura didn¡¯t tell her because she didn¡¯t want to upset her.


    Angel immediately waved her hand. ¡°Ms. Jo, don¡¯t say that. When the studio was doing well, you and


    Ms. Brandel never treated us poorly. Now it¡¯s just going through a rough patch, but it will get better one


    day.¡±


    A wave of warmth surged through Josie¡¯s heart. She felt grateful that in that cruel city, there were still


    people who supported her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to force anyone. If the pressure bes too much, feel free to leave at any time. But if


    you¡¯re still willing to believe in me, give me a chance. Stay, and let¡¯s give it our all together,¡± Josie said.


    When Josie said that, she was actually unsure. The current situation is far from optimistic.


    Angie was the first to stand up. ¡°I¡¯m willing.¡±


    Jade was the second one. ¡°I¡¯m also willing.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m willing, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Even though there were only four people, and their voices weren¡¯t loud, when they spoke, it was


    deafening. Josie nodded, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to everyone.


    Laura was surprised that Josie was still willing to stay at the studio. ¡°You should be by Dexter¡¯s side


    right now, helping him through this tough time. Don¡¯t let others take advantage of his vulnerability,¡± she


    advised.


    Josie stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, talking on her phone. ¡°Staying by his side will only


    make things harder for him.¡±


    After a prolonged silence, Laura sighed and said, ¡°I have plenty of resources at my disposal right now,


    but Mark is always watching. Therefore, the options I can offer you are limited.¡±


    ¡°I understand. Thank you.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Josie received a project from Laura. She carefully read through. it and saw


    that the destination was Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The business partner was there, and she needed to


    negotiate that coboration..


    Josie then chose to go with Angel.


    Before leaving, Jade was very worried. ¡°Ms. Jo, are you sure you don¡¯t need me toe with. you?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡±


    Once the car had driven off, she turned to Angel in the passenger seat and asked, ¡°Are you two


    together now?¡±


    Angel¡¯s face turned beet red instantly. ¡°Is it that obvious?¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°He looked so worried about you.¡±


    People in love were always sweet toward each other, unable to hide any of their feelings. They wouldn¡¯t


    mind unting their rtionship.


    Upon arriving at Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Josie entered discreetly, but she was still recognized.

 Chapter 784 The Humiliation

    Chapter 784 The Humiliation


    ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t the renowned Mrs. Russell.¡±


    A mocking voice echoed from the right side of the hall. It was a male voice filled with arrogance.


    Josie and Angel immediately looked over, and to their surprise, they saw Zach dressed in a suit, hands


    in his pockets, looking refined yet with a hint of a dandy.


    He was eyeing Josie with ill intent.


    Josie closed her eyes and couldn¡¯t believe how bad her luck was.


    She was about to pretend she hadn¡¯t heard it, but Zach stepped forward to stop her. ¡°Mrs. Russell, now


    that you¡¯re famous, do you no longer wish to acknowledge your old friends?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie slowly raised her gaze, her tone calm and unhurried. ¡°Would you consider me an old friend of


    yours?¡±


    Zachughed, ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I? We¡¯ve been through so much together and shared hardships. Now that


    you¡¯re famous, do you want to just write it all off?¡±


    Every sentence wasced with sarcasm, filled with mockery and ridicule.


    If it weren¡¯t for the surrounding crowd, Josie would have loved nothing more than to smash. the bag in


    her hand on Zach¡¯s head.


    She nced around, suppressing her frustration for the moment. ¡°If you have nothing else. for me, I¡¯ll


    be on my way.¡±


    Seeing her not resisting, Zachughed even harder. ¡°Josie, I didn¡¯t expect you to dare show up at


    Dexter¡¯s event. If I were him, I would definitely cklist you.¡±


    Every man on earth would retaliate when they got cheated on.


    Josie was well aware of that. Yet, she didn¡¯t want to make a scene because there were too many


    people around. She didn¡¯t want to cause trouble for Dexter.


    The person in charge of Mandarin Oriental Hotel had noticed her as soon as she walked in. the door. At


    that moment, he was in a difficult position. On the one hand, there was the boss¡¯ wife, and on the other,


    a well-known figure. He couldn¡¯t afford to offend either of them.


    The person in charge of the hotel wanted to step forward, but Josie noticed him. Silently, she made a


    gesture, signaling him to step back.


    ¡°What a pity you¡¯re not Dexter,¡± Josie responded and smirked. ¡°Even if you threw yourself at me, I


    wouldn¡¯t be interested. That¡¯s because a man who doesn¡¯t respect himself is truly disgraceful.¡±


    She hinted at something, which irritated Zach so much that the corner of his mouth twitched.


    ¡°What makes you think you¡¯re so special?¡± He suddenly snatched the document from Josie¡¯s hand,


    tantly opening it to take a look. ¡°Tsk! Do you want to meet the minister of the Ministry of Land and


    Resources? You must be dreaming.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± After listening for a while, Angel wanted to step forward and take the document back, but Josie


    held her hand to stop her.


    Zach waved the document lightly. ¡°How about spending the night with me? I promise you¡¯ll get to see


    him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s breathing gradually became rapid. In the standoff, the long-standing conflict between the two


    finally erupted. Zach was determined not to let her go without a good humiliation.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Josie stepped forward, the front of her high heels pressing down on Zach¡¯s foot. She leaned her


    entire weight forward, causing him to grit his teeth and re at her.


    ¡°I wonder if Ms. Shaw finds out, will she be able to hold herself back from causing a scene at the Olsen


    Residence? If Laura steps down, what will you have topete with your sister, Mr. Zach?¡±


    With a hint of mockery, Josie¡¯s expression infuriated Zach, who pushed her away. ¡°What¡¯s so great


    about Laura? She¡¯s nothing more than someone I once beat to the brink of death!¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Josie nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve heard that most of the projects you have were secured by her. Mr. Zach,


    would you really dare to say those words in front of her now?¡±


    The greatest affront to a man¡¯s dignity was to belittle him and mock him for living off at woman.


    Zach was furious, his hand raised high, ready to strike. ¡°You b*tch!¡±


    ¡°Zach!¡± A voice suddenly came from the stairs.

 Chapter 785 Hitting A Wall

    Chapter 785 Hitting A Wall


    Looking up, he saw a woman in a white dress approaching quickly. She walked up to Zach and pulled


    his hand down. ¡°What are you doing? You¡¯ve caused trouble for me again.¡±


    It was unmistakably Heather.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    With a reluctant sigh, Zach put down his hand. ¡°She deserves a p.¡±


    With a sense of guilt, Heather looked at Josie. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. You should go ahead.¡±


    The yful expression on Josie¡¯s face immediately vanished when she saw Heather. She nced at


    Angel and headed straight for the elevator.


    She had barely taken two steps when Zach¡¯s voice came, sounding impatient. ¡°What are you here for?¡±


    ¡°Today, I¡¯m apanying Dex to an event. I don¡¯t need you stirring up trouble at this critical moment!¡±


    Heather¡¯s voice wasn¡¯t loud, but it was very clear.


    Angel looked up anxiously, only to see Josie¡¯s face expressionless, as if she was unaffected.


    Before stepping into the elevator, the person in charge of Mandarin Oriental Hotel finally stepped


    forward. ¡°Mrs. Russell, we apologize for the inconvenience earlier. It really wasn¡¯t our intention-¡±


    Josie interrupted, ¡°Every businessman has his own set of principles. I can understand that.¡±


    After the incident, they were unsure of Dexter¡¯s stance. They didn¡¯t know if she would still be his wife,


    so naturally, they didn¡¯t dare to lend a hand.


    She could understand that.


    The studio was keen to secure the design rights for a piece ofnd and needed to meet with the


    minister of the Ministry of Land and Resources. He was attending a function at Mandarin Oriental Hotel


    that day, and that was her only opportunity.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± The secretary emerged from the door with a look of regret on her face. ¡°Mr. Campbell is


    busy.¡±


    It was indeed challenging to arrange a meeting with officials of such rank, especially when matters


    were still unresolved. It was only natural to avoid meeting to prevent any suspicion.


    Josie saw iting, so she answered, ¡°Thank you for your efforts.¡±


    However, just as she turned around, he saw a person of simr status rushing over. After exchanging a


    few pleasantries with the secretary, he was let in.


    Angel¡¯s eyes widened in anger, and she stomped her foot. ¡°How can this be? Why do they get. to go


    in?¡±


    Josie feit a bitter taste in her mouth, realizing that her current status was even more precarious than


    when she had nothing at all.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I have a solution,¡± the secretary said, unable to bear the situation any longer.


    ¡°Please give me your advice.¡±


    ¡°Go find Mr. Russell, plead with him, and ask him to give you some authority. Things will be easier to


    solve then.¡±


    Those words didn¡¯t help at all.


    These people are all waiting for me to make a fool of myself. Josie found a ce to sit and began to flip


    through the documents.


    The location of thend was tricky. Without an experienced and highly skilled design team. taking over,


    that project wouldn¡¯t be handled properly.


    Josie was very confident. In the entire Wavery, there were only three teams, at most, with that


    capability, and hers was one of them.


    The other twopanies were mostly industry leaders, not necessarily vying for that. project, so they


    were actually the top choices.


    If they¡¯re not choosing me now, it can only mean this is a tant act of targeting. Josie opened at


    separate room next to Arthur Campbell¡¯s private room.


    An antique, intricately carved screen partitioned the space in the middle.


    Vague silhouettes of people could be seen, yet there was a strong sense of secrecy.


    While stealing nces, Josie handed the menu to Angel. ¡°What would you like to eat? You choose.¡±


    Angel flipped it open and was taken aback by the numbers she saw. She whispered, ¡°It¡¯s too


    expensive. Do we still have money in our studio ount?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry. ¡°Just order.¡±


    She was seated facing the screen, straining to see into the other room. At that moment, only Arthur


    was there. As dishes were served one after another on their side, there was finally some activity in the


    other room.


    A man led a woman, followed by a few others, quickly filling up a table. Arthur exchanged pleasantries


    and shook hands with them.

 Chapter 786 Heart Torn Apart

    Chapter 786 Heart Torn Apart


    ¡°Heather?¡± Angel was also looking, and she instantly recognized the woman she had just met.


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. As their eyes met, an unspoken message passed between them.


    Heather¡¯s here, so what about Dexter? He¡¯s surely here as well!


    Josie quickly heard his deep, mncholic voice. She couldn¡¯t make out what he was saying, but the


    timbre of his voice was highly distinctive and unforgettable.


    She vividly remembered that this voice had once whispered in her ear repeatedly, uttering all sorts of


    embarrassingly intimate words.


    Yet, it felt unfamiliar at that moment.


    Josie¡¯s expression suddenly turned cold, realizing she seemed to have fallen into a trap.


    The gathering in the room was lively. As the alcohol flowed, the merriment only increased, with no


    signs of the party winding down. Arthur, in high spirits, suddenly asked aloud, ¡°May I be so bold as to


    ask, are Mr. Russell and Ms. Olsen about to tie the knot?¡±


    The scene suddenly fell silent.


    Josie poured a ss of wine down her throat.


    Ang tugged at her and said, ¡°Ms. Jo, you can¡¯t drink anymore.¡±


    At that moment, Heather¡¯s weing words could be heard from inside. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely send some


    celebration gifts to you when the timees, Mr. Campbell.¡±


    With a charming smile, Josie said, ¡°I¡¯m drinking to boost my courage.¡±


    Their banquetsted until ten o¡¯clock.


    Presumably out of fear that it would create a bad impression if word got out, they dispersed quickly.


    Josie quickly led Angel to the underground parking lot. She walked briskly as if she didn¡¯t want to give


    herself a chance to change her mind.


    Angel originally wanted to gossip a bit, but seeing Josie¡¯s expression was off, she simply shut her


    mouth.


    Car by car, they searched until they finally found Arthur¡¯s vehicle. Josie, clutching the documents,


    knocked on the car door, but there was no response.


    She knocked again, and the car window rolled down. However, it wasn¡¯t Arthur in the driver¡¯s seat, but


    a grim-faced Dexter.


    Josie¡¯s smile froze on her face, her nose filled with the scent of alcohol. She couldn¡¯t tell if it was her


    own or his.


    Angel was left outside, hearing no movement for a long time. She peeked out stealthily, only to see


    Josie nodding calmly and saying, ¡°Sorry for the disturbance.¡±


    After that, she quickly walked away. Angel, in a daze, followed her. ¡°Hey, Ms. Jo!¡±


    Heather in the passenger seat looked disheveled, hastily adjusting her clothes at thest. second


    before the window was rolled down. Even a fool could tell what had happened, and what was about to


    happen.


    Josie couldn¡¯t tell if Dexter had done that to annoy her.


    ¡°Really?¡± That was the first word Josie said to the man.


    She had to admit that the moment sheid eyes on them, her heart ached uncontrobly.


    ¡°Ms. Jo!¡±


    In the dimly lit basement, Angel was chasing after Josie with a pile of documents in her arms. She was


    walking so clumsily that she almost tripped. Instinctively, she reached out and managed to grab the


    hem of Josie¡¯s clothes.


    Angel looked up in confusion and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie was truly exasperated, feeling somewhat lightheaded. She rubbed her forehead and replied, ¡°I¡¯ve


    been tricked. Let¡¯s call it a night. Can you manage to take a taxi home by yourself?¡±


    Angel blinked, and in the next second, Josie had taken the documents in Angel¡¯s hand, turned around,


    and walked into the crowd outside.


    Once Angel gathered her thoughts, she shouted, ¡°Be careful, okay? Don¡¯t forget to have some


    hangover remedy!¡±


    In response, Josie answered casually, ¡°Understood.¡±


    Honk!


    Suddenly, a car horn red from behind, startling Angel, who was standing close by. She quickly


    sidestepped and shielded her eyes from the harsh re of the headlights.


    A Porsche 918 Spyder whizzed past her. As it did, she peered through the lowered car window and


    caught sight of the man in the driver¡¯s seat. Her eyes lit up with surprise and delight. ¡°Mr. Russell!¡±


    Dexter naturally didn¡¯t hear it. His profile was extremely cold and stern.


    This time around, his passenger seat was empty.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

 Chapter 787

    Chapter 787


    Josie¡¯s tolerance for alcohol had been improving. She didn¡¯t even need a hangover remedy anymore.


    When Laura went to pick her up from the convenience store downstairs, she was carrying a bag of


    yogurt, only to see this woman, who said she needed a ce to stay, walking over calmly.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were drinking?¡± Laura asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m not drunk.¡± Apart from her hair being slightly tousled by the wind, Josie looked incredibly good.


    ¡°I thought I could drown my sorrows in alcohol,¡± Laura said with a disdainful nce at the yogurt,


    before. leading her upstairs.


    Inside the elevator, Josie teased, ¡°There¡¯s no man hiding in your room, is there?¡±


    Laura casually showed her the watch. ¡°At this hour, if there was a man here, I wouldn¡¯t even let you in.¡±


    The two people looked at each other and both smiled.


    ¡°I heard you met Zach today. Did he give you a hard time?¡± Laura opened the door..


    ¡°Your information is bing increasingly urate.¡±


    -Josie¡¯s casual remark made Laura pause for a moment, then she smiled and said, ¡°Regardless, I am


    now the favorite in front of Mark.¡±


    Josie somehow produced a pack of Marlboro, the slender cigarette elegantly held between her long


    fingers, a pleasing sight to behold.


    She tried to imitate Dexter¡¯s way of smoking but ended up choking and coughing for quite a while.


    Suddenly, Laura said, ¡°Heather holds ten percent of the shares, and Dexter intends to help her acquire


    more.¡±


    Without realizing it, Josie furrowed her brows, unexpectedly recalling the words Heather had mentioned


    not long ago. Celebration gifts?


    She let out a sigh, and by the time she came back to her senses, Laura had already fallen asleep on


    one side.


    The phone was extremely quiet.


    Suddenly, a vibration sound rang out,sting only a second. It was from an unknown number.


    She picked it up and nced at it, then dialed back, but no one answered.


    She tried calling again, but the other end had turned off their phone.


    Before leaving, Laura left an invitation for Josie the next day, ¡°If you still want topete for that


    project, you can go there on my behalf.¡±


    Upon opening it, Josie saw the name ¡°Laura¡± prominently written as the host of the charity dinner.


    Shezily lifted her eyes. ¡°Laura, when you persuaded me to set up the studio, you were more


    passionate than you are now.¡±


    Laura paused in her actions. Without turning back, she said. ¡°I am being pushed forward by reality. As


    for the irrational dreams, you can fulfill those for me.¡±


    The banquet was held in a quaint antique hotel. The event kicked off with a charity auction. After


    exchanging pleasantries with Peter, Josie focused on Arthur.


    Right then, Laura called and said, ¡°Since it¡¯s for charity, bid on anything you like, and put it on my tab.¡±


    Josieughed helplessly. ¡°You¡¯re truly extravagant.¡±


    Dexter wasn¡¯t present that day, but Heather was. She was dressed in light colors, resembling a white


    magnolia in summer. Every move she made carried an enticing fragrance. In a short span of time,


    several gentlemen had taken turns upying the empty seat next to her.


    She was not as delicate as before. Her demeanor and image werepletely different from the girl


    next door who was making soup when Josie first saw her.


    It was clear that she didn¡¯t want to live an easy life anymore, which was why she had been actively


    getting out and about.


    A charity dinner was scheduled forter, but Josie didn¡¯t n on staying long. After being in a confined


    space for an extended period, she felt a certain difort in her chest.


    Wherever she was, she could always hear whispers and see unfriendly nces, like thorns in her back.


    Josie was under tremendous pressure, but she was surrounded by familiar faces from Wavery¡¯s upper-


    ss society.


    Unexpectedly, someone dared toe forward and cause trouble. The person clinked his ss with


    hers and said, ¡°Ms. Warren, I¡¯m d to finally meet you.¡±


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie smiled politely and tilted her head slightly. ¡°And you are?¡±


    He was a young man.


    ¡°My name is Zachariah Shaw.¡± He handed over a business card.

 Chapter 788 The Wife Of A Friend

    Chapter 788 The Wife Of A Friend


    It read: Director of Bank of Wavery. Mr. Shaw.


    The bank director appeared extremely refined, unbuttoning a button on his coat. After exchanging


    some pleasantries, he asked, ¡°Is Ms. Warren alone?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Josie remained poised, her keen observation skills allowing her to see through the person in


    front of her. That man was here to cause trouble.


    The exchange of nces revealed a formidable character.


    ¡°I¡¯m also alone.¡± Zachariah looked toward the stage. At that moment, many people in the banquet hall


    were dancing. Seemingly struck by an idea, he asked, ¡°I wonder if Ms. Warren would be interested in


    having a dance?¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t guessed that he was there to cause trouble. She instinctively wanted to refuse, but then


    she heard him say, ¡°Mr. Campbell has a partnership with our bank. If you want to meet him, I can help.¡±


    Josie swallowed the refusal that had reached the tip of her tongue. He was a figure in the banking


    world, and she couldn¡¯t afford to offend him. She ced her hand on his extended invitation gesture


    and said, ¡°My dancing might not be very good. Please be understanding.¡±


    Zachariah, hands sped behind his back, led her into the center. No one would turn down a


    spectacle. and for a moment, all attention was focused on them.


    Every step Josie took was precise, making her and Zachariah the center of attention. Zachariah leaned


    in slightly. ¡°I can¡¯t help but feel a sense of guilt.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Zachariah¡¯s smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes as he said, ¡°As the old saying goes, one should not covet his


    friend¡¯s wife.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Mr. Shaw-¡±


    Indeed, Zachariah was a friend of Dexter.


    Before the sentence could be finished, Zachariah interrupted, ¡°Ms. Warren, you are truly capable. In all


    the years I¡¯ve known Dexter, you are the first person to achieve so much.¡±


    The dance continued. A surge of frustration rose in Josie¡¯s chest as she understood why Zachariah had


    appeared. She tried to break free from his grip forcefully, but unexpectedly, she was spun around and


    thrown out. Unaware of the situation, the onlookers thought it was part of the dance and apuded


    enthusiastically.


    Josie¡¯s movements were somewhat stiff. ¡°Please behave yourself. Dexter and I are on the verge of a


    divorce, so it¡¯s inurate to call me your friend¡¯s wife. Besides, I didn¡¯t entirely choose to be in this


    situation, so perhaps you could refrain from condemning me?¡±


    Zachariah broke into a smile, revealing his teeth. He looked rather charming.


    Supporting her to stand, Zachariah¡¯s smile faded. ¡°I won¡¯t condemn you.¡±


    In the next moment, he suddenly raised his voice. ¡°Ms Warren, you¡¯re indeed impressive, truly worthy


    of your former title as Mrs Russell¡¯s wife. Would you be willing to grace us with a solo dance at today¡¯s


    event for everyone¡¯s enjoyment?¡±


    The words were sharp, revealing his malice without trying to hide it. For a moment, the room fell into at


    silence so deep one could hear a pin drop as everyone exchanged uneasy nces.


    Josie¡¯s position was undeniably awkward. She had already dered her intention to clean up. If she


    backed. out then, it would be like inviting everyone to look down on her, or in other words, devaluing


    herself. If she didn¡¯t back out, she feared that there would definitely be people gossiping behind her


    back, using her of being narrow-minded.


    Regardless, Zachariah carried an unmistakable hostility, making his stance clear. He intended to make


    her feel ufortable.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zachariah had already let go of her hand and left first. With that, the unrted people scattered, not


    wanting to get involved in the mess. Only Josie was left in the central position. The situation was quite


    embarrassing.


    Arnold was actually present that day, keeping a low profile in the corner. Seeing themotion, he was


    about to step in to help Josic, but someone grabbed his hand in the next second. It was Summer. Her


    tone was icy cold when she said, ¡°You better not go up there. Avoid bringing shame to the Olsen family


    and giving the media something to write about.¡±


    Arnold sharpened his gaze.


    With a warm smile, Summer picked up a ss of wine and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±

 Chapter 789 A Nobody

    Chapter 789 A Nobody


    At the standoff, Summer gracefully emerged from the crowd, ¡°Mr. Shaw, you¡¯re in high spirits. You¡¯re


    willing to take time out of your busy schedule to attend tonight¡¯s fashion banquet, just to share a dance


    with Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Zachariah¡¯s gaze sharpened instantly. ¡°Ms. Olsen, you¡¯re mistaken. That¡¯s not the purpose of my visit.¡±


    ¡°I heard Mr. Shaw didn¡¯t take on a single project tonight. He only did one thing,¡± Summer said with a


    smile, looking at everyone. ¡°You all saw it. He was dancing with Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Josie stood still, her expression growing increasingly unpleasant. She couldn¡¯t understand the sudden


    appearance of Summer, but she was certain there was no good intention behind it.


    Zachariah scoffed coldly. ¡°Dancing with her is hardly a big deal. It¡¯s just an opportunity to appreciate


    Ms. Warren¡¯s charm.¡±


    When he spoke these words, he didn¡¯t address her as Dexter¡¯s wife. Clearly, he intended to leave


    Dexter out of it and solely humiliate Josie.


    Everyone understood and simultaneously burst intoughter.


    It was not exactly friendly.


    Summer alsoughed, feeling the gaze from the corner. She walked over to Josie with a serious


    expression. ¡°Mr. Shaw, you shouldn¡¯t make things difficult for Ms. Warren. Who knows how many


    people. wille to trouble you if she acts coquettishly?¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand was held by Summer. The sudden difficulty made Josie stiffen.


    Zachariah, with a hint of difort, chuckled at the words. ¡°I must admit that I hadn¡¯t thought it


    through. Thank you, Ms. Olsen, for showing me the way.¡±


    Summer and Josie exchanged a nce. Summer then said, ¡°Indeed, she never sleeps with a nobody.¡±


    The remark was dripping with sarcasm. Josie¡¯s mouth corners drooped, and she even noticed


    someone. not far away raising their phone to take a picture.


    She wanted to say something, but Summer forcefully silenced her. Lowering her voice, Summer said.


    ¡°Think carefully. Do you really want to confront me here?¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand, along with her retort, was suppressed.


    Until the crowd dispersed, Summer and Josie stood facing each other on the hotel balcony.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Summer raised her wine ss, pouring the wine into the flowerpot. ¡°After more than a year of


    prosperity,


    I never thought you¡¯d see this day, Josie. How does it feel to shoot yourself in the foot?¡±


    Josie stood straight, her face expressionless. ¡°I¡¯ve never done such a thing. I have nothing to say.¡±


    ¡°No?¡± Summerughed. ¡°Such photos have already been leaked, and you still deny it? Do you enjoy


    ying the innocent so much? If I were Dexter, I would divorce you immediately.¡±


    It seemed she knew that Josie and Dexter were not yet divorced.


    Josie stared at Summer. It had been a long time since theyst met, and she noticed a few more fine


    lines on her face. It seemed that the scheming and plotting of the Olsen family had not been few.


    ¡°We¡¯ve already gotten a divorce, Ms. Olsen. No need for you to worry.¡±


    Summer was taken aback. She hadn¡¯t expected Josie to be so nonchnt. ¡°A-Are you really willing to


    divorce him?¡±


    From beginning to end, she believed that what Josie was attracted to was Dexter¡¯s position of power.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I want to? What I desire is not a marriage filled with suspicion. Even without Dexter, I


    can still live well.¡±


    Josie was so candid that Summer couldn¡¯t help but scoff. ¡°No¡­ Dexter would never agree to this.¡±


    After all that time, she knew Dexter harbored genuine feelings for Josie.


    ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind, and I believe this is also what you want, Ms. Olsen. Once the divorce is


    finalized, you¡¯ll be the first one I¡¯ll inform. By then, I¡¯m curious to see if you can outshine your own sister


    and truly be his wife.¡±


    After some thought, Josie found such a scene quite amusing.


    ¡°You!¡± Summer raised her hand.

 Chapter 790 Original Photo

    Chapter 790 Original Photo


    Josie blocked her and raised her chin pridefully.


    ¡°Who does Heather think she is? How dare shepete with me?¡± Summer was fuming with


    frustration.


    Josie raised an eyebrow. It seems that the rtionship between the two sisters isn¡¯t good. Moreover,


    Summer¡¯s desire to be Dexter¡¯s wife is undying. However, she¡¯s still married to Arnold.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that so?¡± Josie released her hand and sized her up. ¡°I didn¡¯t understand it until I saw Heather.


    She¡¯s always in a white dress, gentle in demeanor, just like you were at the beginning, Summer. You¡¯ve


    been. imitating her all along, trying to make Dexter happy, just like she does.¡±


    At Josie¡¯s words, Summer¡¯s brows furrowed, a trace of an indiscernible emotion crossing her face. It


    was obvious that Josie had seen right through her.


    ¡°Perhaps you imitated the old Liana because of her demeanor. You might not have even realized that


    one day Liana would return to Dexter¡¯s side, and at the same time, take away Mark¡¯s affection,


    Summer, I truly find you pitiful,¡± Josie said, each word pronounced distinctly.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The retort she couldn¡¯t voice in the crowd was now fully vented in solitude, bringing her a great deal of


    relief.


    Summer looked at Josie with a peculiar gaze, one that traveled from top to bottom, and then suddenly,


    sheughed. It was a genuine, amused kind ofughter. She said, ¡°Josie, you¡¯re too full of yourself.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows.


    ¡°Perhaps you will never truly understand what¡¯s going on until the day you vanish from Wavery,¡±


    Summer said.


    After saying that, Summerughed even harder.


    Utterly baffled, Josie broke out in a cold sweat and was about to leave when suddenly, Summer called


    out to stop her.


    ¡°Josie, I know who the man in the photo is.¡±


    Josie¡¯s footsteps came to an abrupt halt.


    Summer took steps toward her, their eyes meeting once again. Josie said slowly, ¡°You did it. The


    photos, you¡¯re the one who sent them.¡±


    Summer wore an expression of modesty when she said, ¡°I couldn¡¯t possibly orchestrate such arge


    operation on my own. However, I do indeed have the original photo in my possession. If I send out


    these photos, what do you think Arnold will do?¡±


    When she uttered Arnold¡¯s name, it signified that she indeed had the photograph in her possession.


    Josie¡¯s fingers clenched tightly as she struggled to calm herself down. ¡°I think you should be


    threatening. Arnold with this, not me,¡± she said. ¡°After all, my reputation is already ruined. It won¡¯t


    matter to me if people find out who the man is. But it¡¯s different for you. You¡¯ll have to deal with the


    gossip about a man¡¯s infidelity, and it could even bring down the Carter Group.¡±


    ¡°Yes. When the timees, the public will sympathize with me, and the Olsen family¡¯s stocks will rise.


    Even my parents will feel sorry for me. I might even get a divorce. As for the Carter Group you


    mentioned, what does their downfall have to do with me? I still have the Olsen family and fifteen


    percent of the shares. Whatever happens to Arnold, it really has nothing to do with me.¡±


    Summer spoke quickly, surprising yet also expected by Josie.


    Indeed, Summer had always been such a selfish woman.


    ¡°By the way, there¡¯s another advantage. With the Carter Group¡¯s downfall, Russell Group might very


    well turn the tide in their favor.¡±


    Summer said so much without making Josie show any emotion. Josie frowned when she asked, ¡°Are


    you going to publish the photos?¡±


    Summer pursed her lips. ¡°It depends on my mood. Maybe one day, when I¡¯m in a good mood, I¡¯ll


    publish them.¡±


    Being threatened and controlled wasn¡¯t a pleasant feeling.


    Josie was inclined to let her do so, but she had made a promise to Arnold to help him unconditionally


    once, so those photos could not be revealed.

 Chapter 791 The Recording

    Chapter 791 The Recording


    Besides, she couldn¡¯t even imagine how much pain Dexter would feel when he saw the original photos.


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°Then, it¡¯s up to you. If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    She walked away without a second thought, leaving Summer in surprise. ¡°Hey! Aren¡¯t you going to beg


    me?¡± Summer yelled.


    Josie didn¡¯t look back. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood to cheer you up, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    She walked straight past the corner to a deserted area, then pulled out a voice recorder from her bag


    and pressed pause.


    Leaning against the icy wall, Josie couldn¡¯t quite articte her feelings at that moment. Ever since she


    was schemed against, she had be more cautious. She would record every conversation she had,


    no matter who it was with. She never expected that Summer would reveal so much crucial information.


    However, none of that could prove that she was the one who did it. Josie wanted to prove at the


    moment that she had no rtionship with Arnold and that all of that was someone else¡¯s setup.


    Upon returning to Laura¡¯s ce, Angel kept asking if someone had made Josie¡¯s life difficult.


    Josie shook her head in response. Who could it be? Could it be Wayne? He¡¯s far away in Rivodia, so


    it¡¯s impossible for him to have such a significant influence to n everything. After all, Wavery is still


    Dexter¡¯s territory. Could it be someone from the Olsen family? Yet, it¡¯s not beneficial for them if


    Summer¡¯s reputation is ruined. So, who would benefit from it?


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    The neon lights scattered in Josie¡¯s eyes as she fell into deep thought, and in the end, her focus still


    returned to Heather. The person who has benefited the most from all of this is Heather! But how could


    she possibly convince so many people all by herself?


    Josie¡¯s head was throbbing painfully. Just then, a traffic policeman at the intersection ahead waved his


    hand, signaling her to stop the car.


    The car window rolled down, and a deep male voice rang out. ¡°Please show your driver¡¯s license.¡±


    As Josie found it, she looked up in surprise while handing it over. ¡°Sergeant Buncho?¡±


    Scott, dressed in his traffic police uniform, was also taken aback. ¡°Mrs. Russell¡±


    After checking the driver¡¯s license and conducting an alcohol test to ensure there were no issues, Scott


    asked, ¡°So, where are you headed?¡±


    ¡°Going home.¡± Josie shed a bitter smile. ¡°Have you be a traffic cop now?¡±


    Scott¡¯s smile was rather bitter. ¡°There¡¯s been a reshuffle within the department. I¡¯ll be spending some


    time with the Traffic Division.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t easy to fool. Her brows furrowed when she queried, ¡°You¡¯re from the Criminal


    Investigation Division. Being transferred to the Traffic Division so suddenly doesn¡¯t quite follow the


    usual process, does it?¡±


    It was obvious that he had been demoted.


    ¡°Sergeant Buncho, did youmit a mistake?¡± Josie ventured to guess.


    Scott wore a look of frustration, but clearly couldn¡¯t reveal much. ¡°Mrs. Russell, you¡¯re overthinking it.


    It¡¯s just a simple personnel change.¡±


    Josie was unwilling to give up. ¡°All right, then. Tell me, what¡¯s the status of my father¡¯s case? You went


    to investigate the Olsen family. Did you find any issues?¡±


    When asked about that, Scott was at a loss for words, and his frustration was more evident. ¡°These


    matters still need to be investigated,¡± he said.


    ¡°So, who is investigating it now? As the person involved, I have the right to know, don¡¯t I?¡±


    Scottughed bitterly, ¡°Mrs. Russell, you better not ask.¡±


    ¡°Is it because you were investigating this matter that you were demoted? Tell me the truth.¡± Josie was


    very agitated. After going through so much, it seemed like she had finally gotten some leads.


    She was unyielding, blocking the cars behind her from moving. A traffic cop rushed over and asked,


    ¡°Scott, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    The person¡¯s gaze then fell on Josie, and he instantly became impatient. ¡°Why does it have to be her?¡±


    Scott gave him a nudge with his elbow. ¡°It¡¯s all right. I¡¯ll handle this.¡±


    The man, under Josie¡¯s intense gaze, didn¡¯t leave. Instead, he said in an agitated tone, ¡°What¡¯s there to


    ask? It¡¯s because of you, because of your father¡¯s case, that Scott was demoted to the Traffic Division


    Are you satisfied now?¡±

 Chapter 792 An Unexpected Encounter With Dexter

    Chapter 792 An Unexpected Encounter With Dexter


    ¡°What are you doing! Breaking the rules, are you?¡± Scott roared in anger.


    The person still looked defiant as he turned around to inspect other cars.


    Josie gave Scott a serious look, then started the engine and drove straight to a parking spot. She then


    quickly walked back in her high heels.


    ¡°Sergeant Buncho, did you stop the investigation because you impinged on someone else¡¯s interest?


    Tell me who it is as this is very important to me.¡±


    Josie moved closer as she pleaded and grabbed the hem of Scott¡¯s clothes.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, I¡¯ll handle these matters, but have you taken care of your own issues?¡± Scott, left with no


    other choice, had to say this.


    Josie stiffened. It seemed like the whole world knew about her affairs now.


    Scott was busy inspecting the vehicles, and Josie followed him wherever he went. ¡°Nothing is more


    important than my father¡¯s matter, Sergeant Buncho. You must have parents too, so could you


    empathize with me? Perhaps you may not have the ability to solve the matter, but you can tell me.


    Being outside the system, I can act more conveniently and cooperate with you more effectively.¡±


    Scott remained silent.


    Josie could only make guesses, asking, ¡°The Olsen family? The Carter Group? Or Russell Group?¡±


    She had guessed the three major forces in Wavery.


    Scott continued to gesture to the driver he was dealing with to show his driving license without saying a


    word.


    ¡°At the beginning, you asked me multiple times whether Russell Group had any enemies. Is there


    anyone you suspect? Who are they?¡± Josie was extremely anxious. Her high heels on the uneven road


    made her legs ache.


    Scott sighed in the face of her persistence. He walked up to the next car, tapped on the window, then


    turned to her and said, ¡°None of them, Mrs. Russell. There¡¯s no evidence yet. I can¡¯t make unfounded


    ims.¡°


    ¡°You¡­¡± Josie trailed off because, at that moment, the face that appeared as the car window rolled


    down was a familiar one


    The person was wearing a pair of ck-rimmed sses, giving off a strong schrly vibe. He looked at


    Josie with a troubled look. ¡°Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    It was Larry.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed tightly as she realized with a start that this car looked very familiar. It was the


    Porsche that Dexter often used.


    If Mr. Peeple is here, then¡­


    Josie slowly lifted her gaze. The car window in the back seat was already gradually lowering. Under the


    illumination of the neon lights, the man¡¯s eyebrows and eyes were distinct, his facial contours sharp,


    carrying an inescapable sense of oppression.


    ¡°Sergeant Buncho, we meet again,¡± Dexter said nonchntly.


    Scott sensed the subtlety, nced at Josie, and said, ¡°It¡¯s indeed quite the coincidence tonight.¡±


    After he finished the routine check on Larry, he moved on to the next car. Josie wanted to follow him.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    Yet, for some reason, she didn¡¯t try to keep up. Perhaps Dexter¡¯s gaze was just too intense for her to


    move.


    Josie stood still, hesitating for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter suddenly spoke.


    She halted.


    ¡°Thewyer has prepared the divorce papers. Come with me to get it.¡±


    Josie remained still, yet she felt an unusual chill down her spine. She breathed in the summer night air,


    and after a moment, she turned and said, ¡°All right.¡±


    That sure is fast. It just takes a day or two? Russell Group¡¯swyers are indeed efficient.


    ¡°But my car is still up ahead. I need to notify my staff to drive it back.¡±


    ¡°Someone has already gone to notify them.¡±


    Following that came the sound of car doors opening and closing.


    This car had been parked in the same spot for quite a while, causing dissatisfaction among those


    behind it. However, upon seeing the ostentatious license te and the body of the car, no one dared to


    voice theirints.


    Josie moved to the other side, got in the car, and soon, the car started moving.


    The atmosphere was quiet and awkward, and there was space enough for two people between her and


    the man.

 Chapter 793 Deceiving Her

    Chapter 793 Deceiving Her


    It was as if they were a close-knit couple just yesterday but were now strangers.


    Josie noticed that the back seat of the car was piled with a lot more work files than usual, some of


    which were scattered on the floor.


    She hesitated for a moment, then bent down to pick everything up, organizing it bit by bit. ¡°You¡¯ve been


    busytely, haven¡¯t you? I¡¯m sorry, it¡¯s my fault.¡±


    The man¡¯srge hands, sped in front of him, paused slightly. His cool eyes narrowed a bit. ¡°Don¡¯t


    think so highly of yourself. This has nothing to do with you.¡±


    Josie said nothing in response and endured it in silence. ¡°The business you entrusted to me, I will


    transfer it back to you soon.¡±


    ¡°What I give, I never take back,¡± Dexter said, his eyes and brows illuminated by the light from the


    window, devoid of any warmth.


    Josie was taken aback.


    The car quickly reached Mason Garden. Having not been there for a few days, she thought. that it


    seemed as though the ce had lost much of its liveliness. Despite it being summer, it felt incredibly


    cold there.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Mrs. Carroll?¡± Josie nced around, not seeing any servants.


    ¡°After you left, everyone was dismissed.¡±


    Dexter took off his suit jacket and casually tossed it onto the sofa. He then promptly sat down,


    stretching out his long legs leisurely. His entire demeanor exuded extreme fatigue.


    Josie furrowed her brows, feeling worried about the unchecked emotions the man was expressing


    without any guard.


    ¡°Come here.¡± He looked at her and suddenly spoke.


    Josie remained still, hesitating for a moment. Seeing the warning look in his eyes, she approached him


    in the end. She squatted on the ground, her hands falling on his knees, a gesture of lowering her


    stance.


    ¡°Have you been drinking?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond. He reached out and pinched her chin, the previous sense of fleshiness gone.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    She had lost weight, yet she looked even more beautiful. Even with her head lowered, she was still


    stunning when she looked up, different from the alluring women outside.


    She seemed uniquely resilient.


    Dexter could hardly bear to let go of her. He reached out, brushing aside the stray hairs on her


    forehead. His voice was deep and maic as he asked, ¡°Why have you lost weight?¡±


    ¡°I was busy and was tired.¡± Her voice was low as she forced a smile. ¡°But it¡¯s good that I¡¯ve lost


    weight.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow, looking into her eyes with amusement.


    With the current position she was in making her feel tired, Josie slowly asked, ¡°Where¡¯s the divorce


    papers?¡±


    In an instant, the affection in Dexter¡¯s eyes shattered. His grip intensified as he asked, ¡°So, you really


    want a divorce?¡±


    Josie was forced to tilt her head back, a pained sound escaping her lips. ¡°It was you who said¡­¡±


    ¡°That was a lie to deceive you. There are no divorce papers.¡± Dexter¡¯s expression seemed to be a mix


    of pain and longing.


    She was speechless.


    Just then, the lights in the hall flickered a few times, and suddenly, with a pop, they went out. Instantly,


    everything before their eyes turned pitch ck.


    Without thinking, Dexter wrapped his arm around her neck, pressing her against himself. His icy lips


    unexpectedly met hers in a kiss.


    Josie froze and soon heard him ask between kisses, ¡°Were you humiliated by Zachariah today?¡±


    She tried to pull away but was held even tighter. ¡°He¡¯s your friend. It¡¯s normal for him to stand up for


    you. I¡¯m not angry.¡±


    He held her forcefully, his kiss deepening.


    With their lips entwined, he finally got his wish to touch her delicate skin. ¡°Josie.¡±


    In that tone, there was a clear sense of helpless resentment.


    All that remained in view was the moonlight spilling over the sofa like a dusting of powdered sugar


    With her falling over, he took advantage of the situation and got on top of her. The woman¡¯s body went


    limp. ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s every breath was filled with sensuality, his mind consumed by a single thought.


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    In countless days and nights past, they had shared intimate moments together in bed. She would cling


    to him, calling him ¡°Hubby¡± over and over again.

 Chapter 794 Leave Wavery

    Chapter 794 Leave Wavery


    Just then, images suddenly surfaced in Dexter¡¯s mind. They were those photographs.


    Josie had instinctively leaned in for a kiss. She tilted her head up, but he dodged her touch. In his


    attempt to avoid her, he lost control of his strength, and his hand harshly struck her face.


    It was like a p in the face.


    Josie immediately became clear-headed.


    Dexter gently removed her fingers one by one from his body, never once embracing her.


    She gazed at the man¡¯s blurred silhouette, which resembled a beast lying in wait in the darkness.


    Suddenly, he leaned over, his broad hand sping her slender neck. His grip tightened. gradually. That


    was a sudden burst of rage. ¡°Josie, how scummy can you get?¡±


    When Dexter stood up, his face was stern. The thin nket slipped off him, revealing his firm abs and


    Apollo¡¯s belt.


    Josie could never understand why this man seemed harmless when her eyes were closed, but the


    moment she opened them, he would be a dangerous wolf lurking in the shadows.


    ¡°I¡¯ll sleep in the guest room.¡± This was the first thing Josie said when she came to her senses.


    Dexter found a pack of cigarettes at the head of the bed, pulled one out, and lit it. Through the smoke,


    he watched the woman squatting by the sofa.


    He let out a soft, cold chuckle, flicking the ash from his cigarette. The ash fell, reminiscent of dusty


    memories from the past.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get the divorce settled as soon as possible. Things will be much better for Russell Group after


    that. I don¡¯t want to drag you down.¡± Josie spoke softly, perhaps with a hint of fear.


    Dexter indeed had a temper, and his voice was full of intimidation and a strong sense of hostility when


    he said, ¡°Even if you will end up with nothing?¡±


    Josie¡¯s clothes were slightly rolled up, revealing a hint of her body¡¯s curves. On her abdomen. was the


    tattoo he had inked himself. He had once thought of keeping her by his side forever.


    Josie¡¯s shoulders slightly shrank, and her eyshes lowered. ¡°Even if I will end nothing at all.¡±


    Dexter extinguished his cigarette, gently helped her up from the ground, and tenderly invited her to sit


    on hisp. He kissed her tattoo, and his warm breath, tinged with the scent of tobo, lightly brushed


    against her neck. Josie stiffened, almost under the illusion that Dexter would suddenly bite down like a


    wolf and sever her artery, letting the blood flow freely, and he would relish it.


    Dexter held her trembling body close, his well-defined fingers smoothly unbuttoning her blouse. His


    movements were slow yet incredibly graceful.


    ¡°We can get a divorce, but you must leave Wavery.¡±


    She opened her eyes, her body overwhelmed with pleasure. Suddenly, a sharp pain struck her neck-he


    had truly bitten down.


    ¡°I still need to find Paul.¡±


    Ignoring the pain, Josie pushed him.


    Blood stained the corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth, hers. His eyes were filled with intense emotions. ¡°Then you


    can forget about leaving this marriage.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t understand this person. They were already in agreement, but now he suddenly didn¡¯t


    want to do it.


    ¡°Dexter! I¡¯m doing this for your own good!¡±


    When she called his name, there was a sense of urgency and helplessness, tinged with a hint of anger.


    He paused slightly, then responded with a cold, sarcastic remark, ¡°If you really cared about me, we


    wouldn¡¯t be in this situation today.¡±


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    She was speechless once again.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take a shower.¡±


    Dexter entered the bathroom, leaving Josie alone in the room. She struggled to her feet and walked


    over to the mirror. The pain in her neck was impossible to ignore.


    She waited for a while, then suddenly remembered that Paul had left something at Mason Garden,


    which she hadn¡¯t had the chance to collect.


    With these thoughts in mind, Josie hobbled up the stairs and pushed the door open to enter.


    The scent of dust filled the air as she switched on the light. There it was, the box, untouched and


    resting by Paul¡¯s bedside.


    She breathed a sigh of relief and stepped forward to pick it up. This was her only thing to remember


    him by now.

 Chapter 795 It Was Signed Long Ago

    Chapter 795 It Was Signed Long Ago


    The same items were still in the box. Josie checked them one by one, only breathing a sigh of relief


    once she confirmed everything was in order. It wasn¡¯t until she got to the very bottom that she found a


    thin document tucked away. It was the same size as the box and could easily have been overlooked.


    Josie furrowed her brows, attempting to pick it up. It was a document consisting of only a few pages,


    densely packed with words. She brought it closer, puzzled. The ring bold letters made her frown


    deepen.


    It was a divorce agreement!


    It was Dexter¡¯s and her divorce agreement. The wording was meticulous, clearly drafted by a renowned


    lawyer, detailing the division of assets between the two after the divorce.


    Josie flipped through the pages one by one. Clearly, this divorce agreement was different from the one


    Xanthe had initially given her. This one was more¡­ tolerable. It stated that after the divorce, Dexter


    would grant Josie an eight-figure sum, as well as several estates abroad. She would also receive one


    percent of Russell Group¡¯s shares.


    This was no longer tolerance-it was generosity.


    Josie was puzzled. She had never seen this divorce agreement before, so how did it end up in Paul¡¯s


    box?


    She turned to thest page, and there, boldly written at the signature line of the man¡¯s side, were two


    dried-out words: Dexter Russell.


    His pen strokes were firm and difficult for others to imitate. And at the end of his signature was the


    official stamp of Russell Group.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Josie instinctively took a step back, clutching the paper tightly. It was a divorce agreement signed by


    Dexter!


    It was unclear whether it was due to Paul¡¯s improper storage, but the edges of the paper had started to


    yellow. This indicated that the agreement had been in existence for quite some time. But exactly when


    was this made?


    Josie dared not think about it.


    For a moment, she didn¡¯t know how to react. Should she be happy? This legally binding agreement


    could help her get a divorce and secure her future.


    Or should she be upset, as it meant that the man had been contemting divorce for a while now?


    From outside came the steady sound of footsteps. Dexter, having taken a bath, didn¡¯t see Josie


    anywhere. He walked to the staircase and gently called out, ¡°Josie?¡±


    The sound echoed through the empty house.


    No one responded.¡±


    Dexter saw that the light was on, so step by step, he walked to the bedroom door of Paul. His voice


    was cold. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t look back. She simply lowered her head to rearrange the items. Only then did she slowly


    turn. around, her face weary.


    Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed tightly, his gaze falling on the pieces of paper she was gripping in her hand.


    He had a bad feeling about this.


    ¡°Josic.¡±


    Silence ensued.


    She lifted the papers, her smile tinged with bitterness. ¡°Perhaps I should thank Paul. In such difficult


    times, he managed to preserve some benefits for me.¡±


    When Dexter saw the title of the document, his expression changed drastically. He reached out,


    attempting to snatch it, but Josie dodged his grasp.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been good to me. Dexter.¡± Josie took out a pen from her pocket, the tip hovering above the


    paper. ¡°To have gained so much from being your wife for two years is an honor.¡±


    ¡°Josie! This agreement is unenforceable!¡± In an instant, Dexter felt a severe sense of loss, as if he was


    about to lose her in the truest sense in the next second.


    ¡°I understand that Russell Group¡¯s stamp is not to be used lightly,¡± Josie said, carefully signing her


    name on it. ¡°But I don¡¯t want any of the things written here. Things havee to this point, and I¡¯ve


    already let you down. Leaving you is what I should do.¡±


    Dexter acted as if he hadn¡¯t heard her, stepping forward to snatch the pen from her. But it was already


    toote; she had already signed it.


    He pressed down on the back of her hand. ¡°There should be two copies of the divorce agreement. You


    merely signed one so it¡¯s unenforceable.¡±

 Chapter 796 They Did Not Cross The Line

    Chapter 796 They Did Not Cross The Line


    Josie red at him. ¡°When you have time, give me the other copy. I¡¯ll sign it.¡±


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you listen to me!¡± Dexter was furious. He threw the pen onto the floor, creating a harsh


    noise. ¡°I won¡¯t end this marriage!¡±


    ¡°Dexter! What will you do if you won¡¯t end this marriage then? You will always hold a grudge against


    me in your heart, and you will always be gossiped about because of me. Russell Group can¡¯t turn the


    tide in their favor. I heard that you want to help Heather fight for shares. If you don¡¯t divorce me, can


    you achieve what you want to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll figure something out!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want that.¡± Josie gently shook her head in the face of his anger. ¡°From the beginning until now, I


    never intended to be your burden.¡±


    This man, always so strong, had never been so vulnerable. He looked broken, his dim gaze falling on


    her face. He tightly held her hand and softly said, ¡°Don¡¯t leave me.¡±


    It was as if he had returned to the time Xanthe left him behind in the rain, walking away into the


    distance. He had run in the rain, crying in pain. His feelings of despair were ying out once again.


    Back then, Liana was there to save him, but now there was no one left¡­.


    Josie closed her eyes. She had never seen Dexter in such a state before. She pulled out a crumpled


    piece of paper from her pocket and ced it in the man¡¯s cold hand.


    ¡°I hope I can live up to the profound affection you have for me.¡±


    She moved past him, holding back her tears, and quickly left Mason Garden. Outside, deep into the


    night, the moonlight hung high, and Josie ran in panic through the night,pletely at a loss.


    Dexter stood still, not knowing how much time had passed before he slowly unfolded the piece of


    That was a medical report.


    After the photo scandal broke out, Josie went to the hospital for a check-up. The doctor confirmed that


    there were no signs of sexual activity during that period.


    In other words, she didn¡¯t cross the line with the man in the photo.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    The photo was staged.


    After a long while, Dexter was in extreme pain. He slowly crouched down, wanting to scream, but he


    couldn¡¯t make a single sound. In the end, he choked up in silence.


    He woke up at six in the afternoon the next day in the living room of Mason Garden.


    He tended to destroy things when he was in pain. Last night, he nearly wrecked the entire vi. The


    servants were efficient and quickly cleaned, making everything look as good as new. Only the smashed


    television, which was now missing a piece, wasn¡¯t adequately dealt with. Perhaps the repairman didn¡¯t


    have time toe over.


    He stared nkly at the broken piece of furniture, wondering how long he had slept. It was five hours.


    not smoking crept back like a venomous snake, catching him off guard and devouring all his rationality.


    Marilyn saw that he was awake and brought over some medicine and some soup before cing them


    on the table. ¡°Drink.¡±


    Dexter was in a daze. After a brief silence, he snatched them abruptly and poured everything into his


    stomach. Finally, he lit a cigarette and ced it between his thin lips, his actions so swift that there was


    not time to even stop him. Marilyn watched, her eyebrows furrowed.


    She let out a deep sigh. ¡°I heard Jo has signed it?¡±


    After an indeterminate amount of time, as the sky outside began to darken, Dexter slightly drew his


    long legs together and finally spoke, answering in a way that was unrted to the question, ¡°That


    divorce agreement, I only wanted to give Paul a sense of security, to reassure him about this marriage.


    I never thought that one day it would actually be used.¡±


    Marilyn looked at him.


    ¡°Ms. Marilyn, even after the photos were exposed, I never considered divorce.¡±


    Marilyn paused before replying, ¡°I understand. You¡¯ve always been the type to stick to your decisions


    once you¡¯ve made them. You were like that ever since you were a child.¡±


    ¡°Do you know that I¡¯ve never loved anyone as much as I do now? Not even Liana canpare.¡±


    Dexter leaned back on the sofa, his gaze calm, and he had a stoic expression.

 Chapter 797 What Kind Of Birthmark

    Chapter 797 What Kind Of Birthmark


    Marilyn almost trembled. ¡°But now that things havee to this¡­¡±


    ¡°I me her, but I also me myself. I me myself for not being able to protect her. If only I had been


    more careful, none of this would have happened.¡± Dexter gripped his hair. Showing his distress in front


    of others was a first for a strong and powerful man like him.


    Marilyn¡¯s eyes were moist, filled with heartache. ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell her that your grandpa is sick? She


    will give in to you. If she knows, she will definitely bepassionate.¡±


    ¡°And then what? Make her feel sorry for me?¡±


    He remembered that their marriage had begun because of his grandfather, but now, he didn¡¯t want to


    take advantage of her anymore.


    Josie had been resting at Laura¡¯s ce for nearly three days until she received a phone call. It was


    from Julie, who spoke gently. ¡°Mrs. Russell, Mr. Russell has sent me to deliver some things to you.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t have much strength, so she instructed the security to let here up.


    Julie carried a suitcase filled with her clothes from Mason Garden. In truth, she didn¡¯t own much. All her


    belongings could just about fit into this case,


    After Josie looked through her belongings, she said, ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Carroll, for your trouble.¡±


    With a helpless look, Julie was filled with regret over the end of a rtionship between young people.


    She wanted to offer advice but chose to remain silent upon seeing the expression on Josie¡¯s face.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell, your health has always been an issue. You must take good care of yourself.¡±


    Josie managed to squeeze out a smile. ¡°All right, but please stop calling me Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Julie seemed to want to say something, but in the end, she just shook her head. ¡°Mr. Warren didn¡¯t stay


    in Mason Garden for very long but whenever he had free time, he always talked about you. He was


    always worried that you were being treated poorly, that you were not living a good life. He said he


    always feels like he¡¯s holding you back and that one day, he wants to give it all back to you. For his


    sake, and considering all these factors, you must take good care of yourself.¡±


    When Josie heard about Paul¡¯s matters, her spirits lifted slightly, but she was quite puzzled. ¡°My father


    said these things? Why would he say that?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ Well, Mr. Warren sometimes isn¡¯t in his right mind, so I don¡¯t really know either.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t insist further. After seeing off Julie, she squatted in front of her suitcase to organize her


    things. Suddenly, she found a photo frame in herptop bag. The photo inside was surprisingly of Liana


    as a child, posing with the Russell family.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed.


    The photo frame was tucked away in a well-hidden spot, so it was no wonder that Julie didn¡¯t notice it.


    But who put it in there?


    Suddenly, Josie remembered how, before Paul disappeared, he would often hold these photos,


    murmuring to himself.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He would always say, the person in the photo was her.


    She furrowed her brows and stared intently at the person in the photo. Before, she only thought she


    resembled Liana, but now, considering everything she had discovered in Rivodia and her own


    background, she suddenly felt¡­ the person in the photo was herself.


    In an instant, a remarkably daring idea suddenly sprang to her mind¡­


    This thought made her instinctively lean back, causing her to fall and sit on the ground.


    Just then, Laura returned from outside and was startled by the scene before her. ¡°What happened?¡±


    she asked.


    She stepped forward to help her up. Josie seemed absent-minded. She tightly held Laura¡¯s hand, not


    daring to voice her suspicions for quite a while.


    This idea was truly audacious.


    ¡°Say something!¡±


    Josie came back to her senses and slowly shook her head in the end. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    Laura was puzzled. Suddenly, Josie asked, ¡°Laura, I heard that Heather was identified as a member of


    the Olsen family because of a birthmark. What kind of birthmark was it?¡±


    Laura paused, thought about it seriously, and said, ¡°I¡¯m not exactly sure what kind it was. Only udia


    and Mark know about this matter.¡±

 Chapter 798

    Chapter 798 Announcing Divorce


    Some people held such immense power that they could aplish many things without having to step in personally.


    For instance, a weekter, Josie received the divorce certificate delivered by Larry. The small, formal booklet dered that she and Dexter no longer had any connection.


    ¡°Mrs¡­ Ms. Warren, Mr. Russell has stated that the terms of the divorce agreement will not change. The a*sets listed will be transferred to your name at an appropriate time. The Russell Group projects that you managed before the divorce will still be under your supervision.¡±


    Josie was absentmindedly caressing the booklet with a dazed expression as the man spoke.


    ¡°Ms. Warren?¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡± Josie smiled a little and said, ¡°Thank you. Mr. Peeple.¡±


    That day, the news of Dexter¡¯s divorce from Josie dominated the top trending topic on social media. Russell Group¡¯s official ount released a statement saying that the couple divorced due to ipatible personalities and hoped that the public would not specte too much.


    Many people were shocked that they really got a divorce.


    Some people expected it, iming personality shes were nothing more than an excuse.


    Meanwhile, at the top floor of Russell Group, Dexter was entertaining an old friend. The tea he brewed was his friend¡¯s favorite.


    ¡°There¡¯s a Clusia proverb,¡± Zachariah said with a hint of amusement, ¡°that goes ¡®requite evil with good. It¡¯s talking about you.¡±


    Dexter calmly extended a hand, clean and fair, with evenly distributed flesh and straight joints. His palm was faced downward as he ignored the words spoken to him.


    ¡°Have any of the four major domestic banks received loan applications under the name Arnold Carter?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Zachariah replied. ¡°But I can¡¯t say the same for the banks abroad. What if he joins forces with Josie? What will happen to Russell Group then? If I were you, I would have signed a prenuptial agreement.¡±Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Before, Dexter had paved the way for Josie by introducing her to many of his friends, and Zachariah was fortunate enough to have met her once.


    And now, what Zachariah hadn¡¯t expected was that Dexter would leave Russell Group¡¯s most promising project to Josic!


    If she truly had an affair with Arnold, coupled with the Carter Group¡¯s covetousness, Dexter would have a hard time handling everything alone.


    Dexter slightly raised his eyebrows, his palm facing upward and his tone indifferent. ¡°She won¡¯t.¡±


    He then tossed over a document. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about my personal matters.¡±


    Zachariah understood the implications. He flipped through the documents, quite astonished. ¡°You want to short the Carter Group¡¯s stocks?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond. He withdrew his hand and put his *ses back on, making him look even more like a refined yet decadent man. ¡°I need your cooperation.¡±


    ¡°If someone finds out that you¡¯re targeting the Carter Group at this critical juncture, the matter could be blown out of proportion by the media, which wouldn¡¯t be good for your reputation.¡±


    Dexter suddenly retorted, ¡°So, by that logic, if it came out that the Carter Group is backed by foreign. capital, what do you think the public opinion would be?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    What else would happen?


    During this period, the Carter Group had been gaining significant momentum domestically. Despite their extensive media influence, Russell Group was not to be underestimated as long as Dexter was willing to take action.


    In that case, the Carter Group would face countless impeachments.


    Zachariah understood him now. ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll also give you a gift that I happened to have found out about.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow.


    Two minutester, the man sitting in the shadows underwent a drastic change in expression. His eyes revealed a murderous intent that had been absent for a long time, exuding an intense aura of bloodthirstiness.


    Summer hadn¡¯t expected Dexter to find where she was staying at. She instinctively stepped back, dropping her *s of water. The liquid spilled all over the floor.


    ¡°Dex, why are you here?¡±


    Dexter walked over with his hands behind his back, gradually approaching Summer. His pace was slow yer steady. Every step he took radiated a murderous intent, sending chills down one¡¯s spine.

 Chapter 799 Make Her Wish She Were Dead

    Chapter 799 Make Her Wish She Were Dead


    Dexter was not alone as he was apanied by several robust bodyguards. He didn¡¯t say a word.


    Without. moving, he raised his hand slightly. Immediately, the bodyguards stepped forward, directly


    restraining Summer and removing her coat.


    Dexter turned back, his fist clenched as he coughed. It felt that the situation wasn¡¯t rted to him.


    Summer shouted, ¡°What are you trying to do? Dexter, what are you doing? Don¡¯t you darey a hand


    on me!¡±


    Those bodyguards didn¡¯t stop their actions until they stripped her down to her underwear. Only then did


    Dexter turn around, looking down at the embarrassed Summer from a superior position.


    ¡°Dex¡­¡± Summer pleaded as she looked at him. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Dexter slowly crouched down. He locked eyes with her, his gaze filled with endless malice.


    ¡°Who instructed you to expose Josie¡¯s nudes?¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Mm? Tell me, who is that person?¡±


    Summer had long suspected the reason behind his visit. When she heard his inquiry, an incredulous


    expression overtook her face. ¡°It wasn¡¯t me! I only received the original photos! I¡¯m a victim in this as


    well!¡±


    ¡°You sent me the photos. That means you were the one who posted them, right?¡±


    Under his intimidating aura, Summer shook her head, unable to refute.


    When Dexter said this, it meant that he had already found the evidence.


    ¡°Sum, hand me the original photos.¡±


    Summer resisted. ¡°After all she¡¯s done, you still want to forgive her?¡±


    After hearing this, Dexter let out a cold, eerieugh. He pinched her chin. ¡°What¡¯s it to you?¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Summer reluctantly raised her gaze, her heart brimming with reluctance. The fact that Dexter was still


    advocating for Josie left her at a loss for words. She forced herself to say, ¡°But what can we do now?


    What¡¯s the point of having the original photos? She¡¯s already been exposed to everyone. Perhaps she


    had already slept with someone else. I find it hard to believe that, as a man, you wouldn¡¯t have an issue


    with this!


    Her words cut deep into Dexter¡¯s heart, each one leaving asting mark. However, above all, it was his


    anguish for Josie that weighed most heavily on him


    He tightened has grip ¡°So you¡¯re cager for humiliation, huh? Since you¡¯re so well-informed, maybe I


    should take your picture tod Let everyone see your nudes, and you can share in the ridicule with Joste


    How does that sound?¡±


    byther eyes were filled with rags ¡°My fathertil never let you go!¡±


    ¡°Why would Mark care na yise Right now his whole heart and soul are devoted to Lians


    ¡°If I were a tad more merciless, you¡¯d be at the bottom of the sea feeding fishes by now, Sum. Given


    our history, hand it over, and I¡¯ll allow you to leave,¡± he asserted.


    Dexter¡¯s demeanor was menacing, causing Summer to pause. Despite that, she still shook her head.


    Dexter suddenly stood up and ordered his bodyguards, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Several people stepped forward again, moving amidst Summer¡¯s struggles. She screamed. ¡°Dexter,


    you want the original photos simply because you already know who that man is! So what if you know?


    Josie and him have been through perilous situations together, so you can¡¯t meddle in their rtionship.


    Believe it or not, she won¡¯te forward to testify against Arnold. In the end, all your efforts will be in


    vain!¡±


    There was no telling which part of her statement had provoked Dexter, but his body slightly trembled.


    ¡°Make her shut up!¡±


    In less than ten minutes, his subordinates obtained a pile of explicit photos of Summer and even took a


    video. She was disheveled, copsed on the ground, looking at Dexter¡¯s pale face as if she had seen a


    demon.


    ¡°I¡¯m giving you three days. Within that time, I want to see the original photos and evidence of who


    instructed you to do this.¡±

 Chapter 800 Leaving Early

    Chapter 800 Leaving Early


    As the ne ascended into the sky, a multitude of lights from innumerable homes twinkled below.


    Dexter opted not for a private jet this time. Disguised behind a mask, he upied a seat in business


    ss, engrossed in hisptop. Behind him, Larry had a clear view of Josie and her assistant positioned


    two seats. ahead on his left.


    At that moment, Larry grasped the situation. Dexter had boarded this flight, setting aside his pride, all


    for her.


    The flight from Wavery to Rivodia entailed a five-hour journey. The passengers around, fatigued from


    the trip, had dozed off into slumber.


    Among them, Josie lowered her gaze to power down herptop. She quietly gave Angel some


    instructions regarding work before concluding. ¡°Please wake me promptly if anythinges up.¡±


    Dexter sported a bracelet on his wrist, emitting an air of elegance whenever he raised his arm. Yet,


    what truly captured attention beneath the backlight was the modest, unassuming ring adorning his ring


    finger.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Its surface was rugged, suggesting its value at best a few thousand which was a purchase from a


    shopping mall. Neither its craftsmanship nor its price aligned with his stature, yet he proudly wore it on


    his ring finger, never removing it.


    Larry saw Dexter rise with a nket in his hand, his tall figure crossing the quiet cabin.


    He appeared next to Josie, startling Angel almost to the point of screaming. ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, Dexter¡¯s gaze remained fixed on Josie. He raised his hand, signaling


    Angel not to wake her up.


    Dexter draped the nket over Josie, who was drifting off to sleep. Hisrge hand hovered in mid-air,


    motionless, as if he was hesitating. He lowered his head and stared for a moment, then seemed to give


    up. He clenched his fist and suppressed a cough at his lips before returning to his seat.


    When she slept, her eyshes would always quiver slightly, likely a sign of restless slumber. Her


    complexion was too pale, revealing the faint green veins beneath her skin.


    Josie had arrived in Rivodia as the head of Russell Group¡¯s project to participate in a conference. It


    wasn¡¯t a grand affair, but it did draw the presence of a few financial magnates, and the media were


    scattered. everywhere. News had circted that both Dexter and Josie would be in attendance, briefly


    igniting hopes of capturing some sensational photographs. However, to their astonishment, the moment


    they disembarked from the ne, the two of them went their separate ways through distinct exits,


    declining all interview requests.


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected Dexter toe, let alone that they would be on the same flight.


    When she woke up and saw the nket on her, she assumed it was Angel¡¯s doing. Angel hesitated for


    a moment, recalling Dexter¡¯s gesture, but said nothing.


    At the conference, thanks to Dexter¡¯s prior introductions to many of his connections, Josie had be


    acquainted with most of the attendees. They could exchange smiles and engage in discussions about


    business matters.


    After the prominent figures had concluded their speeches, it was Dexter¡¯s turn to deliver his address.


    Adorned in formal attire, his every gesture exuded grace and ease. The allure of a seasoned man


    emanated from him, instilling a profound sense of reassurance. It left no room for doubt that this man,


    no matter the circumstances, would always be there to protect you.


    Josie was sitting across from him. The camera intentionally swept over her several times. She didn¡¯t


    raise her head, pretending to take notes on the paper.


    The conference was halfway through when she received a phone call and had to leave early.


    It was Laura. ¡°It¡¯s all set. Every quarter at this time, udia will visit the famous church in Rivodia to


    worship.¡±


    Josie took a private car and headed straight for the church.


    This ce was bustling with throngs of tourists, a stark contrast to the quietude of Sousturham.


    However, it also seems tock a certain degree of devotion.


    ¡°May God bless you. Madam, this ce is already upied by another pilgrim. It would be


    inappropriate for outsiders to disturb.¡± The abbot politely declined Josie¡¯s inquiry.


    ¡°Apologies, could you please pass on a message for me? My name is Josie, I believe she would be


    willing to meet me.¡±

 Chapter 801 Strange

    Chapter 801 Strange


    The monk hesitated for a moment, but seeing Josie¡¯s confident expression, he turned around and went


    in to deliver the message.


    After a moment, he stepped out. ¡°Please, follow me.¡±


    Josie followed promptly. The monk guided her through a meandering corridor and into a tower. They


    climbed the stairs and pushed open a door. Inside, a slender woman knelt on a cushion, her back


    facing them. In front of her stood a sculpture of the Virgin Mary.


    Josie gave a nod of acknowledgment to the monk, after which thetter promptly departed.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    She stepped forward, kneeling beside udia. ¡°I¡¯m here in Rivodia on business today. I heard about


    the churches here, so I came to pray here. I hope you don¡¯t mind, Aunt udia.¡±


    udia kept her eyes closed, her hands perpetually sped together.


    ¡°God created all living things. He¡¯ll only disfavor those who are not sincere.¡±


    Josie lit up three candles. ¡°I heard that before Liana returned home, you had been here. So, you¡¯ll


    come back every quarter to pray.¡±


    udia continued to close her eyes, twirling the rosary beads in her hand.


    ¡°What I seek, I seek with a sincere heart.¡±


    Josie sped her hands together sincerely. She hadn¡¯t believed in Christianism before and had learned


    this during her time at Sousturham. It was udia who taught her.


    ¡°My father has disappeared,¡± she began. ¡°You would think that whether he was kidnapped or simply


    lost, there should be some trace of him. But he just vanished into thin air, and despite the efforts of


    multiple parties, no one has been able to locate him. I had no choice but toe here and pray.¡±


    Josie knelt beside udia, her eyes clear and bright.


    After a while, udia ceased twirling her prayer beads and opened her eyes. ¡°This is a tragedy.


    Seeking assistance from someone else is futile, and even beseeching the heavens may not offer a


    solution.¡±


    ¡°So, what should I do?¡± Josie responded quickly, turning to look at her. ¡°Didn¡¯t Liana find her way back


    after you came here? I want to try my luck.¡±


    udia was also looking at her. ¡°Before this, I devoted myself to religion for over a decade, but to no


    avail.¡±


    Josie paused slightly, finding it rather peculiar. udia seemed to have a strong faith, yet it appeared


    her belief wasn¡¯t quite steadfast.


    She spoke word by word. ¡°Indeed, you suddenly found her after being devoted to religion. Isn¡¯t that


    strange?¡±


    udia looked at her for a while with a calm expression. Then she stood up, found a bible scripture,


    and knelt down again. ¡°I always believe that people have their own blessings.¡±


    ¡°Blessings,¡± Josie mused, thinking about the actions of the Olsen family, and let out a light chuckle.


    ¡°Maybe so, but in this world, there are far too many orphans without any status. I¡¯m simply one of them¡±


    udia¡¯s movement of flipping through the scriptures halted. ¡°Aren¡¯t you¡­¡±


    ¡°I was adopted.¡± Josie understood what she wanted to ask.


    She stood up. ¡°I mean no disrespect, Aunt udia. We¡¯ve had brief moments together, moments that


    I¡¯ve always held dear in my heart. I feel I should remind you that sometimes what our eyes perceive


    may not. necessarily be the truth. What if it was a trap?¡±


    After Josie finished speaking, she put her hands together in prayer toward the Virgin Mary sculpture


    and then turned around.


    ¡°What kind of design is this?¡± A crisp voice suddenly came from outside the door. Someone pushed the


    door open and came face to face with Josic.


    Thetter was stiff all over. She hadn¡¯t expected to see Heather here, who actually came with udia.


    Heather was slender in build. At this moment, she was wearing a light pink flowy dress that perfectly


    matched the atmosphere of the church.


    She held two cups of tea in her hands. Seeing Josic, she smiled slightly. ¡°Ms. Warren, are you here to


    see my mother?¡±


    A chill ran down Josie¡¯s back, as if a venomous snake was slowly slithering along.


    ¡°Hello, Ms. Olsen.¡±

 Chapter 802 Can We Make Up

    Chapter 802 Can We Make Up


    ¡°Yes, as I mentioned previously, I¡¯ll be apanying my mother for a while,¡± Heather gently reminded.


    Josie, prompting her to recollect their encounter at the entrance of Mason Garden that day.


    She indeed had said something simr to Dexter.


    udia was flipping through the bible, murmuring words as if she hadn¡¯t heard their conversation.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were here. I¡¯ll bring you another cup of teater.¡± Heather stepped forward, cing


    the tea cup in front of the statue and udia then turned around. ¡°Let¡¯s step outside for now.¡±


    Josie had the same idea.


    The church was bustling with visitors, yet this particr area appeared surprisingly serene. Heather


    guided Josie along the winding corridor, with a sizable pond by their side. Lotus flowers adorned the


    pond, disying a picturesque scene in full bloom.


    ¡°This ce was originally abandoned. It was only after my mother donated a considerable amount of


    money for its restoration that it was refurbished,¡± Heather exined. ¡°This is also where I reunited with


    my mother.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie inquired calmly, ¡°Reuniting with family must be an incredible sensation, isn¡¯t it? When the day


    arrives that I locate my father, I imagine I¡¯ll experience the same as you.¡±


    Heather contemted for a moment, her gaze distant. ¡°Certainly, but there¡¯s still a distinction between.


    those connected by blood and those who aren¡¯t.¡±


    She was insinuating about the rtionship between Josie and Paul.


    Josie remained calm, looking toward the smoke curling up in the distance. ¡°Do you have a wish?¡±


    Heather also looked over. ¡°I don¡¯t believe this.¡±


    ¡°Do you believe that man can shape his own destiny?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°But what if some things are destined by fate, and no matter how hard we try, we can¡¯t change them?¡±


    Heather slightly furrowed his brows, staring at Josie, trying to discern something from her faint smile,


    but to no avail.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be going now.¡± Josie had no intention of staying longer. Her steps had be noticeably lighter.


    ¡°Josie,¡± Heather suddenly called out, a hint of urgency in her voice. ¡°Will you and Dex make up?¡±


    It appeared that ack of confidence spurred this question. Halting in her steps, Josie turned around


    and -remarked, ¡°Who can predict what the future may bring?¡±


    Heather cautiously asked, ¡°Do you still love him?¡±


    ¡°But my love for him is futile. It only holds value if he loves me in return,¡± Josie said with a wry smile.


    In reality, she had no insight into Dexter¡¯s thoughts, but her current response was evidently displeasing


    Heather.


    Josie left. Heather stood still, watching her figure gradually fade away until it waspletely out of


    sight.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± A steady voice came from behind. It was udia who hade out.


    ¡°Mother? I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m fine, just enjoying the scenery.¡± Heather quickly regained herposure, observing


    udia¡¯s expression. ¡°Josie¡¯s behavior today is really strange. Did she say anything to you?¡±


    As udia walked out of the winding corridor, her expression was inscrutable. ¡°I can¡¯t discern anything


    special in her words.¡±


    Heather let out a quiet sigh. ¡°But she told me she still wants to reconcile with Dex. Mother, you know


    he¡¯s the only one I love.¡±


    Upon hearing this, udia let out a sigh and gently patted Heather¡¯s hand. ¡°The daughters of our


    Olsen family, I don¡¯t know what enchantment they¡¯re under, but they all seem to have fallen for the men


    from the Russell family.¡±


    Heather¡¯s smile was strained. ¡°Sum is married now, so I¡¯m afraid she doesn¡¯t have another chance. But


    my feelings are genuine.¡±


    ¡°Dexter has arrived in Rivodia. I¡¯ll find an opportunity.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve seen Sum. Do you know what she¡¯s been up to?¡±


    When asked about this, Heather pursed her lips. ¡°I don¡¯t really know.¡±


    udia hummed in response, then Heather continued to ask. ¡°Mother, did Josie really not tell you


    anything?¡±


    ¡°Nothing much. What¡¯s up with you?¡±

 Chapter 803 Wayne

    Chapter 803 Wayne


    Josie never really expected to get any information out of udia, but the more she interacted with her.


    the more she felt that something was off.


    ¡°What exactly is suspicious?¡± Angie asked curiously from the driver¡¯s seat.


    Heather was acting strangely as if she was worried about something being discovered.


    Josie was at a loss for words, shaking her head. ¡°How long will it take for us to get back to the hotel?¡±


    Angel nced at the navigation. ¡°It¡¯s going to take an hour.¡±


    The church was quite a distance from the hotel. Josie expressed his fatigue, then closed her eyes for a


    short nap.


    She was jolted awake by a crash. The car had been hit, causing her body to lurch forward. Her


    forehead bumped against the seat, leaving a bruise. ¡°What happened?¡± she asked.


    Angel was terrified, her lips pale. ¡°Ms. Jo, someone hit us!¡±


    Josie rubbed her forehead and looked up to see a ck car blocking their way firmly.


    Looking in the rearview mirror, she saw several cars behind them, effectively surrounding them.


    This road was secluded, usually devoid of any passing cars, and now it had naturally be the


    perfect spot for a beating.


    Josie took a sharp intake of breath, a sense of foreboding washing over her.


    Angel had never seen such a scene before and was rendered silent from the shock.


    A figure emerged from the vehicle. He looked fierce and menacing, clutching an iron rod in hand while


    gradually closing in.


    Snapping back to reality, Josie immediately took out her phone. He scanned through her contacts, but


    in the end, she dialed 110 directly. The call was quickly answered. ¡°Hello, how can I assist you?¡±


    The bodyguards had already surrounded the car, even politely tapping on the window.


    ¡°I¡­ You can find my location through my number, right? I don¡¯t know where we are, but we¡¯re


    surrounded by the mafia. Please,e save us!¡±


    After Josie finished speaking in one breath, the bodyguards could no longer wait. They immediately


    raised their iron rods and smashed the car windows!


    ¡°Ah!¡± Angie eximed. ¡°W-What are you trying to do?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    One of them, his face marked with a scar, leaned over to look at the back seat. ¡°Ms. Warren, this isn¡¯t


    our first meeting.


    Josie gripped her phone tightly, studying the person in front of her. Recognition dawned on her as cold


    sweat trickled down her face. ¡°¡­You, you¡¯re one of Mr. Dalton¡¯s men.¡±


    The person chuckled. ¡°It seems you do remember. When Mr. Carter took you on the highway, I was


    there too. I remember you quite well.¡±


    Cold sweat increased on Josie¡¯s body. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    The man¡¯s smile faded, and with a wave of his hand, the rest of the bodyguards immediately swung


    their iron rods, smashing the car to pieces. The noise was deafening. They then dragged Josie out of


    the wreckage.


    ¡°Youngdy, after you ran away, Mr. Dalton spent a lot of effort looking for you, but to no avail. Can you


    guess what happened?¡± The man pinned her to the ground, his iron rod ced in front of her. ¡°Mr.


    Carter almost lost his life!¡±


    Josie took a sharp intake of breath, striving to keep herposure. ¡°I presume you found me not to kill


    me, but because Mr. Dalton needs me alive, right?¡±


    The person intensified his grip. ¡°This won¡¯t stop me from teaching you a lesson!¡±


    Josie endured the pain.


    She had only been here for a day. Her arrival was kept a secret, yet Wayne¡¯s people had located her so


    swiftly. This speed was indeed rather unusual.


    Someone was tipping them and wanted her dead!


    oelt regret deep in her heart, realizing that her actions had been too hasty. She worried that she had


    be the top target on Wayne¡¯s wanted list. Her safety in Rivodia was alreadypromised, and


    with her divorce from Dexter, she found herself in even greater danger.

 Chapter 804 What About Our Divorce

    Chapter 804 What About Our Divorce


    ¡°Wait!¡± Josie looked up, her gaze falling on the trembling Angel. ¡°You can reprimand me, but this young


    lady is innocent. Let her go.¡±


    ¡°Why should I listen to you?¡± the bodyguard asked, ncing at Angel.


    ¡°The person Mr. Dalton wants is me. It has nothing to do with innocent people. I have no parents or a


    husband. It doesn¡¯t matter if you take me away, but she¡¯s different. She has parents, and she¡¯s from


    Wavery. If she goes missing, the situation will be hard for you to handle.¡±


    Josie continued quickly, striking the iron when it was hot. ¡°More leads are popping up now. You guys


    wouldn¡¯t want to invite trouble, would you?¡±


    The bodyguard seemed to agree with Josie¡¯s argument. He asked, ¡°What if she alerts others after I let


    her go?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ why don¡¯t you leave her somewhere far away, where there¡¯s no one around? It would take her


    a while to get back. By the time she makes a report, you would have already dealt with me, right?¡±


    Josie was doing her best to buy some time.


    ¡°Ms. Jo¡­ I won¡¯t leave! I can¡¯t abandon you and escape alone!¡± Angel cried out loudly, terrified by the


    situation.


    ¡°Listen to me. I can¡¯t protect myself, but I can protect you,¡± Josie shot Angel a meaningful look.


    ¡°What a bunch of loving sisters, eh?¡± The person gave Josie a backhanded p before signaling for


    others. to drag Angel away. ¡°Take her away. Oh, and before you go, break one of her legs!¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°No, don¡¯te closer¡­¡±


    The bodyguard raised his iron rod, aiming straight for Angel¡¯s leg. He swung with all his might,


    intending to cripple her. She didn¡¯t even have time to dodge. She closed her eyes and braced herself


    for the impending pain.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in dread. Just then, a car sped toward them. It headed straight for the bodyguard,


    knocking him to the ground and sending his iron rod ttering onto the pavement.


    ¡°Josie!¡± A stern voice rang out. She turned to look and was startled to see the car door open, with


    Dexter sitting inside, veins bulging on his outstretched hand.


    ¡°Dexter?¡± Josie was surprised. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°D*mn! An ambush!¡± The bodyguards weren¡¯t pushovers, though. They all rushed forward, trying to aim


    at Dexter¡¯s weak points. He dodged their attacks nimbly, counterattacking by grabbing one of the men¡¯s


    wrists and breaking it..


    There were too many people, and he couldn¡¯t move freely in the vehicle. So, Dexter jumped out of the


    car, picked up an iron rod, and began to fight them off, all while pulling Josie behind him.


    Dexter didn¡¯te alone, but he probably didn¡¯t anticipate such a huge number of enemies, as he only


    brought two or three bodyguards with him. The fight was getting more intense.


    The shing sound of iron rods was grating, tugging at Josie¡¯s heart. She clutched the corner of


    Dexter¡¯s clothes, alerting him to be careful. ¡°To the left! Be careful!¡±


    Dexter tilted his head back, delivering a kick to the person on his left, sending the attacker flying


    several meters away. Then, he continued his fight with the person in front of him.


    ¡°D*mn it! Didn¡¯t they say they were divorced?¡±


    Josie heard someone in the crowd cursing angrily.


    Perhaps it was that sentence that caused Dexter to lose his focus momentarily. Someone rushed from


    behind, about to crash into Josie. Thankfully, he reacted quickly, grabbing Josie and spinning her


    around. so that he could use his body to shield her.


    Bang!


    The iron rod struck his back, emitting a dull thud that sent a jolt through Josie¡¯s heart.


    Dexter¡¯s face paled in an instant, and it took him a while to straighten his back.


    Josie looked up incredulously in his arms and eximed, ¡°Dexter!¡±-


    He gripped the iron rod tightly in his hand, his brows furrowed in frustration. Cursing under his breath,


    he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s that spot again.¡±


    Afterward, he mustered all his strength to stand up, smacking his assant on the back of his head with


    an iron rod and kicking him away. Only then did he feel his anger subside.


    The opponents were numerous, and Dexter was gradually losing his strength. But just then, sirens rang


    out in the air. The police had arrived.

 Chapter 805 Of Righteousness And Courage

    Chapter 805 Of Righteousness And Courage


    A ck car was leading the way in front of the police car. Larry jumped out of it and yelled, ¡°Mr.


    Russell!¡±


    The police arrived, and everyone promptly dropped their weapons. All that was left was a chaotic mess


    on the ground, mixed with traces of blood.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve, starting a brawl!¡± A group of police officers stepped forward and ordered,


    ¡°Everyone, get down! Hands on your heads!¡±


    Those people were all habitual offenders who were ustomed to the process. Despite their


    impatience, they still got on their knees.


    Dexter did not move from his spot and exined, ¡°We are the victims.¡±


    The police officer raised an eyebrow and deadpanned, ¡°From the looks of it, you seemed more like the


    aggressor just now.¡±


    The misunderstanding prompted Josie to exin hastily, ¡°Officer, we are truly the victims here. I just


    called the police earlier. You can check the records if you don¡¯t believe me.¡± She took out her phone


    and sifted through the call log.


    The head police officer was puzzled, but soon someone piped up, ¡°It¡¯s her.¡±


    The confirmation cleared the tension in the air.


    ¡°Tell me what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Josie went over to help the frightened Angel up and exined the situation to the police in detail.


    The police officer finally understood the situation. He kicked the man with a scar on his face, shouting.


    ¡°You guys again!¡±


    It seemed as though that was not their first encounter.


    ¡°Miss, do you have any disagreements with them?¡±


    ¡°Disagreement¡­ hmm. I-I suppose they were going to take advantage of usdies,¡± Josie replied


    simply. Since their kidnappers were habitual offenders, the police probably couldn¡¯t do anything about


    them, let alone trace anything back to Wayne.


    ¡°D*mn you! Who¡¯s trying to r¡¯pe you?¡± Some of the attackers grumbled in protest.


    ¡°Shut up!¡±


    The police officer approached Dexter and asked, ¡°What about you? Tell me. What were you doing?¡±


    Dexter happened to wear a ck dress shirt and long pants. Due to the sweat and blood stains, the -


    contours of his chest and abdominal muscles could be seen through his tight shirt. Standing under the


    sun, he exuded an aura of rugged charm.


    Dexter nced at Josie from a distance, his emotionsplex as he replied, ¡°I was just passing by


    and decided to step in.¡±


    The police officer raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. ¡°Isn¡¯t this too much of a coincidence? To ¡®step in¡¯


    with a few bodyguards in tow?¡±


    Dexter stopped speaking. Larry immediately stepped forward, handing over a business card. ¡°Mr.


    Russell is here in Rivodia for a summit. He brought a few bodyguards with him for safety reasons.¡±


    The police officer looked at Dexter with suspicion, continuing to scrutinize him.


    Dexter was growing impatient under their gaze and furrowed his brows. He asked, ¡°Just tell me. Are


    thedies unharmed?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Indeed, aside from Angel being terrified, both women were safe and sound.


    ¡°Officer, he¡¯s telling the truth.¡± Josie came to the rescue.


    Finally, the police stopped their questioning. As the police cleaned up the area, Dexter and Josie


    exchanged a nce. In his gaze, there was a mix of reminiscence and unfamiliarity, as if they hadn¡¯t


    seen each other for many years.


    Upon returning to the hotel they were staying at, Dexter erupted with an aura of murderous intent. The


    scent of blood still clung to his body. Josie got out of the car and followed closely behind him, matching


    his pace.


    After walking for a while, as they were nearing a crowded area, Dexter stopped and turned around,


    reprimanding, ¡°Go back.¡±


    Josie remained still and insisted, ¡°Your shoulder was also injuredst time. It must be worse today. I¡¯m


    responsible for your injury, so I need to make sure you¡¯re okay before I can rest easy.¡±


    The statement was filled with a sense of responsibility! Sadly, itcked a touch of concern.


    He gave her a cold smirk and drawled, ¡°I¡¯m just doing what¡¯s right. Whether it brings me fortune or


    disaster has nothing to do with you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Josie responded quickly, ¡°but I have something to tell you.¡±


    It¡¯s as if a conversation was her true purpose..


    Dexter was at his wit¡¯s end with her, so he left first. Before leaving, he instructed Larry to guide her to


    his room.


    As his figure receded into the distance, Larry hurriedly exined, ¡°Mrs., oh, I mean Ms. Warren, there


    were many people around. Mr. Russell was worried that you might be criticized.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about that.¡±


    Larry was about to praise her for being considerate when she continued, ¡°I¡¯m just afraid that if he dies,


    it will cause trouble for me.¡±


    He was speechless.

 Chapter 806 He Is The Target

    Chapter 806 He Is The Target


    The pair entered the room one after another, ensuring no one saw them.


    Dexter stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, his shirt already removed. A deepceration ran


    across his broad shoulders, oozing blood and looking incredibly gnarly.


    A doctor soon entered and thoroughly examined the man¡¯s wound, his expression somewhat grim, ¡°Mr.


    Russell, have you been injured in this same spot before?¡±


    Josie gazed calmly at Dexter, only to hear him give a hum of acknowledgment.


    ¡°This might be rather serious. I¡¯ll give you some basic treatment now, but you¡¯ll still need to get to the


    hospital for an X-ray as soon as possible.¡±


    s, Dexter didn¡¯t give a direct answer to that. ¡°Let¡¯s apply the medicine first,¡± he replied.


    As the doctor pulled out a bunch of medicine, Josie couldn¡¯t wait any longer and piped up. ¡°I¡¯ll take over


    from here. You can leave the room.¡±


    Even though the doctor hesitated, he finally nodded and left after seeing Dexter¡¯s expression change.


    Just like that, two people remained in the vast hotel room. Josie walked behind Dexter and gently


    applied the medicine to his wounds, her movements delicate yet precise.


    ¡°Those were Mr. Dalton¡¯s men. He has set his sights on me and might cause trouble for you, too,¡± she


    hastily exined.


    With his bare chest exposed and reflected in the mirror, Dexter looked exceptionally sexy as he stared


    at the woman tending to his wounds. ¡°Why would he find trouble with me? We¡¯re already divorced.¡±


    Upon being reminded of their situation. Josie felt her hand tremble and identally spilled the


    medicine, causing Dexter to furrow his brows.


    ¡°You saved me, so of course, he¡¯d go after you,¡± Josie said with a slight smile. ¡°He might even think


    you still have lingering feelings for me.¡±


    Since Dexter wasn¡¯t in the best mood, it was no surprise that he didn¡¯t like the joke.


    Knowing that, Josie promptly withdrew her smile, a hint of mockery in her gaze.


    ¡°Did those people say anything when they came?¡± Dexter asked.


    By then, Josie had finished applying the medicine and began to bandage him. ¡°They said that after I


    left, Mr. Dalton spent plenty of time and effort looking for me. He probably vented his frustration on


    Arnold, which nearly cost Arnold his life,¡± she answered, realizing that was the only helpful thing she


    could say.


    Dexter froze upon hearing the name and closed his eyes. ¡°The person in the photo is Arnold.¡±


    It¡¯s time toy the cards out on the table.


    Josic, too, no longer wanted to deny it. ¡°When I saw him that day, he was undoubtedly covered in


    wounds. There was no way he could¡¯ve done what he was used of.¡±


    Dexter slowly opened his eyes. ¡°Who took the photo?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Josie blurted out. Looks like we¡¯re back to the first question, huh?


    ¡°Mr. Dalton¡­¡± Dexter muttered as he fell into deep thought. ¡°If Arnold had let you go, why didn¡¯t Mr.


    Dalton beat him to death?¡±


    For a moment, Josie was taken aback. ¡°Their rtionship isplex. Arnold was probably kept alive


    because he could still be useful.¡±


    ¡°Arnold was taken in by Mr. Dalton in his hour of need, only to repay thetter with a deadly betrayal. If


    1 were Mr. Dalton, I wouldn¡¯t let him walk away alive,¡± Dexter reasoned as he met the woman¡¯s gaze


    through the mirror.


    His words were sharp like a knife, and Josie could feel chills running down her spine.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Why is he still keeping Arnold around and using him, then?¡± she asked while finishing up with the


    bandages. ¡°You suspect Mr. Dalton, but this doesn¡¯t benefit him in any way.¡±


    Dexter quickly put on a clean shirt, though he left it unbuttoned. ¡°The absence of any benefits is what


    makes this so suspicious. Who would be the biggest victim if something bad happened to you?¡±


    Josie knitted her brows. ¡°Apart from me¡­ It¡¯d be you.¡±


    Oh no¡­ Dexter¡¯s their target!¡±


    It wasmon knowledge that Dexter treated his wife exceptionally well, so it stood to reason that she


    was his soft spot and greatest weakness.


    Hence, the n was to hit where it¡¯d hurt the most.


    A chilling intensity surged in Dexter¡¯s eyes as he suddenly asked, ¡°Arnold has tried barging through a


    checkpoint with you, hasn¡¯t he?¡±


    Of course, Josie knew the man was referring to the incident at the intersection on Rivodia¡¯s


    expressway. ¡°Yes¡­ It didn¡¯t work, though.¡±


    To her bewilderment, Dexter merely chuckled. ¡°This rtionship has truly shown what it means to be


    together in life and death.¡±

 Chapter 807

    Chapter 807


    Even though she didn¡¯t understand what Dexter had meant, Josie remained calm and walked. out from


    behind him. ¡°I¡¯m done bandaging your wounds. I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    Dexter casually looked at her, not saying anything more..


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to get an X-ray at the hospital,¡± Josie reminded before leaving the room.


    ¡°Mr. Peeple will remember it.¡±


    Seeing that the man didn¡¯t seem to care about his own body, Josie fell silent and walked out. of the


    room.


    She caught Dexter¡¯s lonesome shadow cast by the light just because the door closed, but sadly, they


    had nothing to do with each other anymore.


    Upon thinking of that, Josie couldn¡¯t help but let out a bitter chuckle.


    To get from Dexter¡¯s room to her own, she had to navigate a corridor that led to a scenic balcony


    overlooking an endless river view. It was, without a doubt, a popr spot for many bigwigs to gather for


    their business meetings.


    Wearing a mask on her face, Josie hurried past without paying much attention when she suddenly


    collided with a figure. The person¡¯s chest was firm and knocked her backward, causing her to yelp


    when a sharp pain shot through her forehead.


    An attendant by the side promptly spoke up. ¡°Please watch when you¡¯re going, miss.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Josie muttered as she lifted her gaze.


    Upon getting a closer look at the man before her, she frowned.


    Dressed in a ck suit, Morgan oozed gentlemanly charm and quiet confidence. He had the demeanor


    of a powerful man, and the youthful exuberance from years ago was no longer discernible.


    Josie didn¡¯t recognize this version of Morgan, yet at the same time, she knew it was him.


    ¡°Miss?¡± the attendant repeated when he realized she was in a daze.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Josie replied as she regained herposure and noticed the suitcase in the attendant¡¯s hand.


    Ah. Morgan must¡¯ve just checked in. Most of the people staying in this hotel are leaders attending the


    conference, and since he¡¯s a resident of Rivodia, it¡¯d be strange if he didn¡¯te.


    ¡°So sorry about that,¡± Josie quickly added with a little nod. However, just as she was about to leave,


    she felt her wrist being grabbed, causing her body to stillen.


    Morgan held her slender hand for two short seconds before letting go. ¡°You¡¯re hurt.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Sure enough, Josie had grazed herself during the recent scuffle, and he noticed the wound. even


    though it was tiny.


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, Mr. Bastille. I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    Morgan instantly raised an eyebrow and pursed his lips.


    Meanwhile, Josie withdrew her hand and strode off without giving the man a second look.


    Even after returning to her own space, she was still somewhat surprised. Morgan had revealed his


    feelings and appeared before her once or twice, but nothing about it felt. authentic. He always seemed


    like he wasn¡¯t being serious and had only uttered those words. casually.


    In short, he was like an insignificant object, and Josie had almost forgotten his existence. because of


    hisck of initiative.


    The conference continued the next day, and as usual, the tiered seating auditorium was packed with


    people. Thankfully, the media¡¯s focus had shifted away from the news about Dexter and Josie.


    ¡°Mr. Bastille! Mr. Bastille has arrived!¡±


    Josie hastily looked up and saw Morgan Xun at the entrance, surrounded by a group of people. He was


    as distinguished andposed as the day before, but now that he had cameras in his face, he


    seemed a bit more approachable.


    Without further ado, Morgan stepped onto the podium and began his speech. ¡°Hello, everyone. I¡¯m


    Morgan Bastille, the acting representative of Bastille Group. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet all of you on such


    an asion.¡±


    With her gold-rimmed sses perched on her nose, Josie gazed at the man from afar to see if she


    could find traces of the arrogant, domineering young man she once knew. Unfortunately, she came up


    with zilch.


    Morgan seemed to have sensed her lingering gaze as he casually nced her way, his resolute


    demeanor suddenly softening a little.


    Josie panicked and averted her gaze, but because of that, she met the scrutinizing eyes of Dexter, who


    had been watching her like a hawk.


    He lost track of how long he had been watching her, but his eyes twinkled with amusement with every


    passing second. When he saw her getting flustered, that amusement he felt only. intensified.

 Chapter 808 Up For A Meal

    Chapter 808 Up For A Meal


    ¡°Ms. Jo, Morgan is really impressive. I¡¯ve seen the articles about him. He¡¯s a standout from the


    powerful Bastille family.¡± Angel leaned towards Josie, whispering softly, her eyes never leaving the man


    on the stage.


    Josie was apathetic about the info. ¡°He¡¯s a posthumous child of the Bastille family. The entire Bastille


    family will belong to him in the future.¡±


    After all these years, she still remembered those words.


    ¡°Really?¡± Angel was confused, ¡°But I heard that the Bastille family has a second scion, Shawn. He¡¯s


    been quite ruthless in the past six months. Morgan stood out after escaping Shawn¡¯s. relentless pursuit


    and trap.¡±


    Shawn? Josie wasn¡¯t quite sure, for her focus was on Wavery. She had no interest in keeping. up with


    the news about the Bastille family.


    ¡°It seems that Morgan¡¯s attendance at such an event today confirms his position as the head. of the


    Bastille family is secured.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie felt utterly bored as she listened. The look in Dexter¡¯s eyes earlier lingered in her mind. It was


    clear and indifferent, yet meaningful.


    Once the formalities were over, the significant political and business figures began to delve into work,


    discussing future coborations. In every sentence exchanged, hundreds of millions worth of assets


    were involved.


    Josie wasn¡¯t interested in that. She only used that as a pretext toe to Rivodia and had not intention


    of starting anything there.


    However, Dexter seemed quite interested. He sat in his seat, yet group after group of people kept


    coming up to him to chat as if he held a cornucopia instead of the mess that was Russell Group.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s truly a feat to get a free slot in your schedule.¡± A hearty voice belonging to a bald man


    sounded.


    ¡°Mr. Jablon, it¡¯s only natural that I meet you first upon entering your scene.¡± Dexter extended his hand,


    his movements somewhat restrained, possibly due to a shoulder injury.


    Mr. Jablon, Eugene, didn¡¯t seem to care about the awkward movement. Instead, he turned to the side


    and said, ¡°This is the Mr. Bastille I often mention to you. He is one of the most. prominent figures in


    Rivodia. Even the higher-ups treat him with respect.¡±


    His words were filled with pride.


    Morgan stepped forward with a smile. ¡°Mr. Russell and I go way back.¡±


    Dexter nodded with amusement twinkling in his eyes and shifted his position to face Josie. ¡°Mr. Bastille


    is well known for his decisive and swift actions. I¡¯ve always admired him.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s thanks to Mr. Bastille that I¡¯m able to secure this position,¡± Morgan said with a meaningful look.


    ¡°How about this? Let¡¯s go out to dinner tonight. The meal will be my treat. It¡¯s a good setting to have a


    discussion.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great to hear! I heard Mr. Bastille was famed for being a big eater during his school days. How


    about that, Mr. Russell? Let¡¯s follow Mr. Bastille¡¯s lead tonight, shall we?¡±


    Eugene seemed carefree and had a heart of gold.


    On the other hand, Dexter was nonchntly indifferent, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. Thus, they


    took it as a tacit agreement.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s my treat, let¡¯s include everyone¡¯s staff as well,¡± Morgan suddenly suggested.


    Josie, who was observing from the sidelines, was startled by his suggestions and then found. she was


    under everyone¡¯s scrutiny.


    She attended the conference under the name of Russell Group. When he mentioned Dexter¡¯s


    employees, she naturally considered herself as one.


    Dexter stared into the distance and replied, ¡°It depends on the employee¡¯s wish.¡±


    Morgan also turned his gaze at her. Eugene found it strange but also looked at her curiously.


    Josie raised an eyebrow, fully aware of their ill intentions. However, it wasn¡¯t a good time to refuse. ¡°It¡¯s


    my honor,¡± she answered.


    It was decided just like that. After the conference, Morgan¡¯s car took the lead, guiding the vehicles


    behind him to the most famous hot spring clubhouse in Rivodia.


    Once they were settled, the server asked the type of pool they each preferred.


    When it was Josie¡¯s turn, she was about to respond when a voice interrupted, ¡°Medicine pool. She¡¯s


    not in good health.¡±


    Morgan, standing at the very front, was the one who responded, sounding incredibly natural.

 Chapter 809 A Chance Encounter With Heather

    Chapter 809 A Chance Encounter With Heather


    Josie instinctively red at him, catching a glimpse of Dexter¡¯s expression gradually turning. menacing


    from the corner of her eye.


    ¡°How about that? I remembered correctly, didn¡¯t I?¡± Morgan asked with a smile. ¡°You must have had a


    tough few years, so take your time and have a good soak.¡±


    Before Josie could even respond, Eugene asked, ¡°Mr. Bastille, do the two of you¡­ know each other?¡±


    ¡°First love.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s words never failed to shock people into silence. Astonishment was written across Eugene¡¯s


    face. He nced at Josie, then at Dexter, whose face was taut with tension. ¡°My goodness,¡± he


    eximed, ¡°everyone said Mr. Bastille was quite the charmer in his youth. Who would have thought


    he¡¯d run into his first love like this? What a coincidence, don¡¯t you think, Mr. Rusell?¡±


    Josie gritted her teeth in frustration, knowing full well Morgan did it on purpose, deliberately making


    things difficult for her.


    ¡°What I mean is, I was her first love,¡± Morgan corrected leisurely. His gaze met Dexter¡¯s directly. Sparks


    of palpable danger flew between them.


    Josie pursed her lips, disinterested in their dispute. She turned to the server and said, ¡°I¡¯m on my


    period, so it¡¯s inappropriate for me to enter the water in such a condition. Please ignore. me.¡±


    With that statement, she effectively declined Morgan¡¯s arrangement. Instead of acknowledging her


    response, the server turned to look at Morgan.


    Morgan wasn¡¯t upset and shrugged. ¡°Skip her, then.¡±


    Under the guidance of an attendant, the group headed toward a private dining room. Dexter led the


    way, not sparing another nce at Josie. As they walked through the corridor, one of the private rooms¡¯


    doors suddenly opened, and a woman walked out. The woman looked up at the group in surprise.


    ¡°Dex!¡±


    It was Heather Riley. She was dressed in light, airy clothes. Her figure may not be voluptuous, but she


    carried herself with a youthful and yful grace, much like a young girl.


    Dexter paused. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Heather shifted to the side, clearing his line of sight. ¡°I heard this hot spring clubhouse in Rivodia was


    amazing, and the vegetarian food was delicious too, so I brought my mother here to enjoy.¡±


    Inside the private dining room, the woman dining elegantly was none other than udia.


    Dexter¡¯s forehead smoothened, nodding slightly at her. ¡°Ms. Hadey.¡±


    ¡°You have good taste indeed, youngdy. The vegetarian food here is truly excellent,¡± Morgan agreed


    with a smile. ¡°How about this? I¡¯ll cover all your expenses for today.¡±


    As he spoke, he turned his gaze toward the attendant.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Before Heather could refuse, everything had been set in stone. She expressed her thanks, then walked


    over to Dexter and whispered intimately, ¡°Dex, my mother will be going back. for her prayerster, and


    I¡¯ll be so bored on my own. Can I hang out with you guys for a while?¡±


    Dexter answered without a trace of hesitation, ¡°We¡¯re a group of men discussing business, so it¡¯s not


    appropriate for a girl like you to join us.¡±


    ¡°Why is it inappropriate? Isn¡¯t she¡­ also part of your group?¡± Heather was talking about Josie. Her


    voice trailed off at the end of the sentence.


    Impatience marred Dexter¡¯s countenance.


    ¡°Join us, then. I¡¯m bored as the only woman in the group,¡± Josie suddenly said, her voiceced with


    amusement.


    Heather didn¡¯t expect her to agree. Even Dexter¡¯s brows were slightly furrowed at her invitation. At that


    point, he had no way to deny Heather, so he nodded in agreement.


    Heather clung to Dexter¡¯s arm and led the way mboyantly.


    Josie¡¯s heart was unexpectedly calm when she watched them walking together intimately. Morgan, who


    had unknowingly moved to her side, remarked, ¡°They actually make a good pair.¡±


    Josie cast him a sideways nce. ¡°Are you satisfied now?¡±


    Morgan chuckled lightly. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Josie ignored him.


    During the meal, Heather naturally sat next to Dexter. She paid him much attention and frequently filled


    his te once it emptied.


    Morgan also took the opportunity to sit next to Josie, asionally chatting with her. She didn¡¯t seem


    too pleased, but it was enough to make Eugene envious. ¡°Oh dear, if I had known everyone was


    bringing their partners today, I wouldn¡¯t havee alone. Are you all happy now?¡±

 Chapter 810 Getting Her Into The Water

    Chapter 810 Getting Her Into The Water


    Morgan couldn¡¯t help butugh when he heard this.


    Dexter didn¡¯tugh. Heather poured him a ss of wine, but Larry quickly moved it away. saving, ¡°Mr.


    Russell can¡¯t drink alcohol.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Heather didn¡¯t understand.


    As Larry was struggling to exin, Eugene shifted the topic to Morgan. ¡°Ms. Warren, you are the only


    woman I¡¯ve ever seen who dares to show displeasure to Mr. Bastille. First love is indeed different,


    haha¡­¡±


    Josie absentmindedly yed with the food in her bowl,cking any appetite. ¡°Mr. Jablon, I¡¯ve long


    heard of your reputation. I never thought you¡¯d share the same love for gossip as womenfolk.¡±


    This remark was clearly loaded with malice. Eugene felt a moment of awkwardness, then managed to


    squeeze out a smile and said to Morgan, ¡°She¡¯s quite a feisty girl, huh?¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Morgan curved his lips into a smile, pouring a ss of wine as a token of apology. ¡°She¡¯s always been


    like that. Please forgive her.¡±


    In their conversation, it was as if they were back in their university days when he would take her out to


    see the world. He would oftene to her defense during gatherings. Even if Josie said something


    wrong, people would not get angry out of respect for Morgan.


    This was just like the old times.


    Josie wasn¡¯t too keen on reminiscing. She stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to get some fresh air.¡±


    Outside the private room, there was arge hot spring pool. Josie sat at the edge, her feet dangling in


    the water.


    A figure appeared behind her at some point, also sitting down. ¡°Dex is discussing work with them, I


    don¡¯t like listening to it, so I came out to sit with you.¡±


    It was Heather.


    Josie didn¡¯t look at her. ¡°Are you okay with letting Aunt udia. go back alone?¡±


    ¡°With a driver to pick her up and drop her off, I have nothing to worry about,¡± Heather said.


    With a smile, Josie said, ¡°Great.¡± Eugene was a womanizer. To cater to his tastes, Morgan invited quite


    a few people over, men and women, though women were in the majority. They lined up by the hot


    spring pool, at sight that was quite pleasing to the eye.


    Dexter was already bored to death, and he rested his head on one hand. Heather sat next to him and


    talked to him, but she didn¡¯t know if he was listening or not.


    Before long, the atmosphere outside became lively. Those who had drunk a bit too much. proposed a


    swimmingpetition. The women started topete with each other, and it was then that their good


    figures were revealed.


    Dexter was woken up by the noise. Heather pulled his hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go take a look too.¡±


    Josie stood still, shoulder to shoulder with Morgan. Her previously upset mood improved significantly


    upon seeing this farce, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.


    This sight was extremely ring in Dexter¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°We¡¯re one person short.¡± Eugene was in high spirits. With five women divided into pairs for a game,


    they were still one short. He turned his gaze to Heather. ¡°Ms. Olsen, would you like to join?¡±


    Heather tightly grasped Dexter¡¯s hand, expressing her reluctance. ¡°Let Ms. Warren join. I¡¯ve been


    drinking.¡±


    Suddenly summoned, Josie subtly nudged Morgan¡¯s arm without changing her expression. He knew


    her all too well and said, ¡°She¡¯s on her period. She can¡¯t go in the water.¡±


    Eugene nodded, cordially saying to Heather, ¡°Having a drink won¡¯t hurt. The water is shallow. It won¡¯t


    drown you. Ms. Olsen, please do us the honor.¡± After speaking, he nced at Dexter.


    Thetter¡¯s gaze was constantly fixed impassively on the arms of Josie and Morgan as they touched.


    Seeing no help forting, Heather didn¡¯t want to dampen the mood in front of so many people, so


    she reluctantly agreed to go into the water.


    As soon as she touched the water, Josie suddenly said, ¡°Wearing clothes is considered a burden. Why


    don¡¯t you change into something else?¡±


    Heather was reluctant. ¡°It¡¯s fine, we¡¯re just ying around. No need to take it seriously.¡±


    Josie folded her hands, ¡°You don¡¯t have any change of clothes if yours get wet, right? It would be better


    to change into something morefortable now to avoid any inconvenienceter.¡±


    She hit the nail on the head, prompting Eugene to quickly go get the clothes for the hot spring. ¡°Ms.


    Warren makes a valid point.¡±

 Chapter 811 Seeing Her Birthmark Clearly

    Chapter 811 Seeing Her Birthmark Clearly


    The swimsuit was ced in front of Heather. She didn¡¯t move, seemingly a bit nervous, as she looked


    up at Dexter.


    He seemed puzzled because what Josie had just said did make some sense.


    ¡°The swimsuit is quite revealing,¡± she said.


    Dexter only took a nce and said, ¡°It¡¯s a matter of a few minutes. Change it once you¡¯re done


    swimming¡±


    There was no pity for her in his words.


    ¡°Does Ms. Olsen still have reservations?¡± Eugene, who was in high spirits, gradually became less


    enthusiastic, seemingly reproaching her for being overly concerned.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Feeling a bit disappointed that Dexter didn¡¯t stand up for her, Heather picked up her swimsuit and got


    up to change.


    In the midst of waiting, Josie maintained a calm exterior, yet her palms were sweating with anxiety. She


    didn¡¯t even know what she was worried about. To be precise, it was more like anticipation¡­


    Morgan fetched a ss of orange juice. ¡°Have a sip, it will help you calm down.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, taking it over after a moment.


    She stared at one of the women in the pool and suddenly said, ¡°I¡¯ve seen this woman before, she


    works in La Oriele.¡±


    Morgan was befuddled by her remark.


    ¡°The fact that you managed to bring thedies from La Oriele to entertain your business partners,


    Morgan, you¡¯re quite something,¡± Josie said, a teasing smile on her face as she stared intently at him.


    Morgan was only surprised for a moment before quickly returning to his usual self. ¡°Have you been to


    La Oriele?¡±


    Josieid her cards on the table. ¡°I¡¯ve been there, and I even saw you.¡±


    He sneered. ¡°No wonder I thought the person that day looked so much like you. You didn¡¯t go with


    Dexter, did you?¡±


    His voice was neither loud nor soft. Josie, afraid that Dexter might overhear, changed the subject.


    ¡°What¡¯s your rtionship with them?¡±


    After changing her clothes, Heather came out. Morgan watched her as she walked toward him and


    said,


    The Bastille family has so many businesses. Is it strange for me to invest in one or two country clubs


    with potential for growth?¡±


    Of course, it was not strange, but it just so happened to be La Oriele, which inevitably made Josie


    suspicious. She nodded. ¡°Anyway, I have no evidence, so whatever you say goes.¡±


    Heather walked up to Dexter. ¡°Dex, does this look okay?¡±


    revealing. He nced at her and said, ¡°Pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Now that everything is in order, let¡¯s get started,¡± said Eugene, finally regaining his enthusiasm. Josie


    was standing too far away, and Heather was facing her, so she couldn¡¯t see her back clearly.


    With a whistle from Eugene, everyone simultaneously dove into the water, swimming toward the


    opposite bank. Heather wasn¡¯t very good at swimming and was slow. By the time the group had almost


    finished swimming, she was just starting to return.


    It was at this moment that Josie could finally see Heather¡¯s back. It wasn¡¯t very noticeable, but one


    could indeed make out a birthmark.


    As she swam closer, Josie could finally make out the exact location of her birthmark.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    At her shoulder de, there was a tiny red birthmark, almost imperceptible unless one looked closely. It


    was shaped like a cloud.


    Josie confirmed that she wasn¡¯t mistaken. Her body tensed. The ss she was holding slipped from


    her grasp, crashing to the floor, and spilling orange juice everywhere.


    Morgan was the first to stand up. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Upon looking over, Dexter immediately saw the scene of Morgan protecting Josie behind him. The


    former was incredibly tense, while thetter¡¯s lips were pale as if they had seen something terrifying.


    Dexter made a move when Heather suddenly called out, ¡°Dex.¡±


    He paused.


    She extended her hand in the water. ¡°Pull me up.¡±


    He lowered his gaze, his eyesnding precisely on her birthmark. It was that very mark that eased his


    furrowed brow, softening his expression slightly.


    ¡°Get up.¡± He bent down, pulling her up, ignoring the pain that tugged at the back injury.


    Josie stared at Heather, her face pale and her hands trembling.

 Chapter 812 Declaration Of War

    Chapter 812 Deration Of War


    ¡°Josie!¡± Morgan called out, trying to snap her back to reality.


    Josie shuddered, but she couldn¡¯t regain herposure no matter how hard she tried. Arnid the


    surrounding mor, she shrugged off Morgan¡¯s hand and mumbled, ¡°It¡¯s nothing¡±


    Heather had already promptly put on her coat to cover her birthmark. Dexter instructed someone to


    take her away to change her clothes, then turned to Eugene and asked, ¡°Have you had a good time?¡±


    Eugene wouldn¡¯t dare to overstep, knowing full well that Heather was the precious daughter of the


    Olsen family. ¡°Of course, of course.¡±


    The group dispersed quite quickly, leaving only a few people from before in the private room.


    Josic stopped drinking orange juice and poured herself a ss of red wine, which she downed in one


    go, Morgan was taken aback and snatched the wine ss from her, eximing, ¡°What a waste! Is this


    how you drink wine?¡±


    Josie sat quietly, her soul seemingly miles away.


    After changing her clothes, Heather emerged, only to find Morgan staring at her. ¡°How brave of you,


    Ms. Olsen,¡± he said, ¡°Imend your courage for stepping up under such circumstances.¡±


    Heather¡¯s face flushed for a moment. She walked over to Dexter and said obediently, ¡°It¡¯s fine. We


    shouldn¡¯t spoil the mood.¡±


    Dexter sat on the couch, lost in his thoughts. Heather cautiously asked. ¡°Dex, I came inst ce. I¡¯m


    afraid I¡¯ve embarrassed you.¡±


    He gently pinched her soft palm, his expression a yful smirk. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter what ce you¡¯re in.¡±


    Eugene hurriedly stepped forward to apologize, saying that he might have been offensive due to the


    influence of alcohol earlier, and asked Heather for her forgiveness.


    Heather didn¡¯t make a fuss, but she poured herself a ss of wine and approached Josie. ¡°I haven¡¯t


    had a drink with Ms. Warren all night. Please ept my toast,¡± she said.


    Josie was taken aback by Heather¡¯s sudden friendliness. She tried hard to regain herposure and


    asked, ¡°A toast? For what?¡±


    Upon close observation, one could see a hint of nervousness in Heather¡¯s eyes, even a touch of


    pleading.


    She was pleading for something.


    ¡°Of course, I should thank you for finally agreeing to divorce Dex and freeing him from his misery.¡± Her


    sudden remark raised eyebrows among everyone present.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie remained seated, unmoving. She nced at Dexter and smiled. ¡°Should I congratte you then


    for finally seizing an opportunity?¡±


    As she spoke, she poured herself a ss of wine, clinked sses with Heather, and said, ¡°Here¡¯s to


    your sessful rise to power.¡±


    Heather nced at Dexter, her nervousness increasing. My feelings for Dex began when I was five or


    six. No one canpare.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she carefully observed the changes in Josie¡¯s expression.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already wished you sess.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t react much, as usual, as if she didn¡¯t notice the birthmark on Heather¡¯s body.


    Heather slowly sighed in relief.


    ¡°Heather.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was deep as he ordered, ¡°Come back.¡±


    The tension in the room was palpable, spreading throughout the entire private room. The open


    deration of war between the two women left only Eugene in a state of shock.


    D-divorce? Isn¡¯t Josie¡¯s first love Morgan? How¡­ how is she also Dexter¡¯s ex-wife?


    With a p to his forehead, Eugene finally realized that Dexter¡¯s ex-wife was indeed Josie.


    So, the situation today¡­ was this!


    Josie watched as Heather slowly walked back to Dexter¡¯s side. Thetter was oblivious to her gaze, a


    gaze so intense it was almost venomous.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you home,¡± Morgan offered, breaking the silence.


    Josie immediately stood up and walked straight out of the private room, saying, ¡°Thanks.¡±


    She walked swiftly, her footsteps falling silently on the carpet.


    She never believed that such coincidences existed in the world. Not only were hers and Heather¡¯s


    birthmarks in the exact same location, but they also looked identical. Even twins couldn¡¯t achieve such


    a simrity.


    Somehow, Heather had aplished that.

 Chapter 813 Overturning Fate

    Chapter 813 Overturning Fate


    The night wind was crisp and cold, blowing away the effects of the alcohol and clearing Josie¡¯s mind.


    She stood at the entrance of the country club, watching the hustle and bustle of people, remaining still


    for quite some time.


    Morgan simply followed behind her, not uttering a word, his posture as upright as a towering pine tree.


    Taking a deep breath, Josie was overwhelmed by the smell of alcohol in the air. Feeling nauseous, she


    rushed to the side of the trash can and bent over to retch.


    She hadn¡¯t eaten much that night, so naturally, there wasn¡¯t much to throw up. She dry heaved for a


    while when suddenly, arge hand came down, patting her on the back.


    Surprised. Josie looked up to see Morgan handing her a bottle of mineral water. ¡°Rinse your mouth.¡±


    Her face was pale, devoid of the strength to argue with him any further. She epted it.


    Once she had finished cleaning up, she stumbled her way to the side of the road. Her thin outer


    garment slid down her shoulders, revealing her beautiful figure underneath. Josie was so drunk that her


    entire body was limp.


    Morgan held her hand, making sure she wouldn¡¯t fall.


    Morgan.¡± Josie crouched down, her voice hoarse and full of resentment. Her spirit still had not returned.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. Morgan replied to her with exceptional patience..


    ¡°What would you do if one day, you found out something¡­ something that could change your fate?¡±


    she asked earnestly while looking up at him.


    Her gaze shimmered brightly under the street lights.


    Morgan also crouched beside her and replied, ¡°I would see if the situation was to my advantage or


    disadvantage.¡±


    Typical businessman mentality.


    Pros and cons? Josie couldn¡¯t figure it out. All she knew was that this enormous secret was enough to


    turn the whole Wavery upside down.


    ¡°W-What if there are both pros and cons?¡±


    When she asked him questions seriously, it was as if they were back in their university days. She would


    ask him all sorts of challenging academic questions, and he would always patiently answer them.


    Morgan found joy in the kind of reliance she had on him.


    ¡°Then try your best to eliminate the drawbacks and turn them into something beneficial for yourself.¡±


    Josie pouted in frustration. His suggestion was easier said than done. For Heather to havee this


    far, who knows how many parties had been lending their support to her. It¡¯s impossible for Josie to turn


    the tide with her own strength.


    More importantly¡­ does Dexter know?


    As that thought crossed her mind, Josie¡¯s gaze once again became unfocused. It was at that moment


    that Eugene and his entourage emerged from the club, with Dexter conspicuously among them. Her


    gaze froze.


    Dexter didn¡¯t seem to notice them. Instead, he raised his hand to fix Heather¡¯s cor and said, ¡°I¡¯ll have


    Mr. Peeple take you home. Be careful on the way back.¡±


    Heather blushed, clutching the corner of Dexter¡¯s clothes. ¡°Dex¡­ Did I cause you any trouble today?¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Despite the neon lights, Dexter was well hidden in the shadows, his expression inscrutable. ¡°It¡¯s not a


    bother.¡±


    ¡°So, did you understand what I said to Ms. Warren?¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes were filled with the anticipation of a young girl experiencing her first love.


    Dexter withdrew his hand and grunted in agreement, but his smile didn¡¯t quite reach his eyes. He


    beckoned Larry over. ¡°Mr. Peeple, please escort Ms. Olsen home.¡±


    Larry understood his intentions and gestured for Heather to follow him. ¡°Ms. Olsen, please.


    Heather simply assumed it was a tacit agreement. At the very least, he didn¡¯t refute her words in front


    of so many people, which could be a sign of him not caring about Josie anymore.


    Under Larry¡¯s escort, she got into the car and drove off, passing Josie.


    The car window rolled down, and Heather smiled and offered charmingly, ¡°Do you need a ride, Ms.


    Warren? You¡¯ve had too much to drink.¡±


    Josie thought her face must have looked terrible then. She averted her gaze, and Morgan immediately


    understood her feelings. He replied in her stead, ¡°She has me.¡±


    As a woman herself, how could Heather not understand the implications of his words? Heather felt a


    weight lift slightly off her shoulders. It was good that there was someone else; that meant Josie


    wouldn¡¯t be so fixated on Dexter anymore.

 Chapter 814 Business Enemies

    Chapter 814 Business Enemies


    The phrase ¡°She has me¡± reached the ears of Eugene and his entourage, clear and unambiguous.


    Eugene instantly sobered up. He cautiously shifted his body and observed Dexter, who was still


    standing in the shadows. Dexter took out a cigarette and asked calmly, ¡°Mr. Jablon, a lighter, please¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Eugene failed to find a single lighter on himself. He nudged his secretary beside him with


    his foot and whispered, ¡°Lighter¡¯ Lighter!¡±


    After much fanfare, he finally found a lighter. He hurriedly lit Dexter¡¯s cigarette, and its weak me


    revealed the man¡¯s indifferent gaze.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ You. This. I¡¯m also a man, I understand! Eugene said, thinking he had offered some


    comfort


    Dexter slowly puffed on his cigarette, letting out a stifled chuckle. ¡°What do you know?¡±


    Which man could bear the fact that his ex-wife had left with her first love? Eugene couldn¡¯t say it


    directly, so he found a roundabout way to exin, ¡°Women, well, I think Ms. Olsen, whom we just met,


    is quite a finedy. Yes, quite good indeed!¡±


    Dexter brushed off the ash from his cigarette and said, ¡°She¡¯s like my younger sister. She doesn¡¯t


    count.¡±


    With a sigh, Eugene scratched his head, at a loss for words. He stood dumbfounded at the door with


    Dexter until thetter had finished smoking a cigarette. Dexter stared at the scattered ashes on the


    ground. ¡°Mr. Jablon, how much do you know about the Bastille family¡¯s affairs?¡±


    Eugene began to regret not drinking enough to pass out. He found himself in a bit of a predicament as


    he stammered, ¡°Not much, just¡­ what has been rumored out there.¡±


    Before their eyes, Morgan was helping Josie to stand up. She brushed off Morgan¡¯s hand and walked


    away on her own.


    Morgan boarded his car and drove behind her at a slow pace.


    ¡°Morgan acquired Shawn¡¯s businesses, joined forces with Bastille Group¡¯s shareholders, and ousted


    his own younger brother, right?¡± Dexter asked. His back ached a little as he straightened his body.


    ¡°Yes¡­ that Shawn, he¡¯s an illegitimate child. For the past six months, he has been teaming up with


    otherpanies to attack Morgan. Just for this reason alone, Morgan could never tolerate him.¡±


    As Eugene spoke about this, he was somewhat filled with righteous indignation.


    ¡°Otherpanies?¡±


    ¡°Rumor has it that they¡¯re from Wavery. Although we don¡¯t know who¡¯s behind it, they¡¯re powerful and


    ruthless. So, it¡¯s not like Morgan had an easy victory these past six months. It just goes to show his


    tenacity.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After all, as a fellow townsman from Rivodia, Eugene held a certain degree of admiration for Morgan.


    ¡°Tell me. Perhaps I really do know thesepanies.¡±


    After some thought, Eugene mentioned apany name.


    Dexter¡¯s emotions were unreadable as hezily fiddled with a lighter. He said simply, ¡°It¡¯s apany


    under Russell Group¡±


    Before Eugene could even react, Dexter nonchntly tossed the lighter into the former¡¯s hands and


    dered. ¡°Ill make a move¡±


    The man, tall and upright, walked into the night, a pleasing sight to behold.


    Eugene watched him leave, and after a moment, his legs gave way, and he copsed into his


    secretary: arms ¡°Did you hear that? What what did he just say?¡±


    His secretary was also breaking out in a cold sweat ¡°H-he said that thepany coborating with


    Shawn is under Russell Group¡¯s control¡±


    Suddenly, Eugene¡¯s vision wentpletely dark.


    Dexter revealed this information for one reason only to make it clear to Eugene that his rtionship


    with Morgan was never one of cooperation, but of opposition.


    Tonight had been a feast with ill intentions, where Eugene alone reveled cluelessly in joy.


    Lost in his thoughts, Eugene suddenly pped himself and cursed out loud, ¡°D*mn it.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie took a long trek back to the hotel. The gloom in her heart didn¡¯t dissipate, and she


    never once looked back at Morgan¡¯s car.


    ¡°Ms. Jo? What happened? You didn¡¯t walk all the way back, did you?¡± Angel opened the door, only to


    find a weary and haggard Josie.


    Josie didn¡¯t say a word. She went straight into the bathroom and closed the door.

 Chapter 815 I Am Liana

    Chapter 815 I Am Liana


    There was a veryrge mirror in the bathroom.


    She shed her outer garment and all her clothes until she waspletely naked. Josie turned around,


    her back facing the mirror,


    At her shoulder de, therey a birthmark akin to a cloud right in the middle.


    Not only did it resemble Heather¡¯s, identical in every way, but it was also in the exact same position, not


    a hair¡¯s breadth off.


    Josie stared at the birthmark for a long time, a memory suddenly surfacing from her childhood. She


    remembered chasing after Paul, asking, ¡°Dad, why do I have a birthmark?¡±


    Paul gently patted her head. ¡°Do you find it ugly?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s just that I¡¯m curious. Why do others not have it, but I do?¡±


    Every summer, she dared not wear overly revealing clothes. Eventer, when she was in bed with


    Dexter, she always deliberately covered her back. When he asked her about it, she simply said she


    didn¡¯t like it from behind. It didn¡¯t make her feel secure.


    Dexter had always respected her, never forcing anything.


    After a moment of thought, Paul said, ¡°This birthmark, perhaps, could be the key to finding your


    biological parents in the future. So, it could also be considered a form of luck, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Josie nodded, then shook her head. ¡°I want to stay with you. I don¡¯t want to find my biological parents.¡±


    Paul wasforted andughingly called her silly.


    With each memory of the past, a pang of sorrow struck Josie.


    She always felt as if she was dreaming, and only when she opened her eyes again to see the birthmark


    on her back did she feel the reality of it all. This mark, which had been with her for over twenty years,


    yed a crucial role at that moment.


    Her spection was confirmed. Josie and Liana. How remarkably simr we are. Even our eyebrows


    and eyes bear a striking resemnce.


    Every time she saw Mark and udia, she felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity.


    Fate had been hinting at her identity all along, yet she persistently used all sorts of excuses to avoid.


    recognition.


    Angel had been waiting outside for a long time, anxiously knocking on the door, ¡°Ms. Jo, are you


    okay?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t hear it. rity washed over her at that instant as the cold water flowed down from her head


    to toe. How could Heather replicate my birthmark exactly in the exact same manner when the only


    other person who knew about it was Pop? If I am real, why was Heather able to pass the DNA test?


    Dexter even did it once on his own. Am I a fake, then?


    Josie opened his eyes, her breathing suddenly bing heavy. Someone has tampered with it.


    Heather alone couldn¡¯t have done this. How many people does she have backing her up?


    She would need to use her immense intellect to unravel this mystery. She had an inexplicable


    premonition. Perhaps solving this puzzle will lead me to Pop!


    After what felt like an eternity, Josie finally opened the bathroom door. Angel looked at her anxiously.


    ¡°Ms. Jo, you scared me to death.¡±


    Josie was drying her hair with a towel, managing a smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just feeling a bit


    down.¡±


    Angel seemed a bit confused. ¡°Um¡­ Did Mr. Bastillee back with you? I noticed his car has been


    parked downstairs, and he hasn¡¯t left.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, walking over to the balcony. Sure enough, she saw Morgan leaning against


    his car downstairs, nonchntly smoking a cigarette. His demeanor and the elegant way he moved


    were exactly like the scion he was back in university.


    He saw her, his eyes curving into a smile, and he waved at her.


    Josie closed the balcony door and returned to her room.


    Angel was very curious, ¡°Ms. Jo, you know Mr. Bastille?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ could be considered an old acquaintance.¡± Josie carefully chose her words. She had no intention


    of sharing her discoveries that night with anyone, as she was unsure who could truly be trusted.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 816 No Need For Love

    Chapter 816 No Need For Love


    On the final day of the conference, everyone¡¯s tense nerves finally began to rx. Meals were eaten at


    a more leisurely pace. In the hotel¡¯s restaurant, every table was upied by important figures.


    Josie and Angel arrivedte, and there were hardly any seats left. They nned to pack some food


    and eat it back in their room. However, at that moment, a man in a suit came over and respectfully said,


    ¡°Ms. Warren, Mr. Bastille invites you.¡±


    Surprised, Josie looked over and saw Morgan in the center, elegantly dining. He waved at her. She


    closed her eyes briefly, then reluctantly walked over.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Just as Angel was about to catch up, the man in the suit stopped her, ¡°Ms. Teneson,e with me.¡±


    ¡°What on earth do you want to do?¡± Josie sat across from Morgan, her expression somewhat troubled.


    ¡°You seem to be in high spirits. It looks like you¡¯ve fully recovered.¡± Morgan raised an eyebrow, cutting


    at piece of steak and cing it on her te.


    Josie nced at the steak, then at Morgan, utterly baffled. ¡°You¡¯ve already taken over the Bastille


    family. What on earth are you after?¡±


    His face was expressionless as he continued to cut his steak. ¡°Being close to you brings me nothing. It


    might even upset Dexter, let alone the Bastille family.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°What I mean is, the Bastille family has everything you could possibly want.


    Why are you so fixated on me?¡±


    It was not that she was narcissistic. However, she could feel that Morgan¡¯s series of actions indicated


    he still couldn¡¯t let go of her.


    ¡°Or could it be, Mr. Bastille, that you have a soft spot for your first love? But that can¡¯t be right. I¡¯m not


    your first love. Your ex-girlfriends could form a line all the way to Friyx, so why me?¡± Josie leaned back


    in her chair, half-joking.


    Morgan saw right through everything. ¡°Are you still hung up on my ex-girlfriends?¡±


    It was because of that very reason that the two of them went their separate ways in the first ce.


    His speech added a hint of ambiguity to the atmosphere, making it seem as if she hadn¡¯t let go of him.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t remember anymore,¡± Josie said, noticing him adding another slice of steak to her te, ¡°All


    H remember is that for you, life is so fulfilling that there¡¯s no need for love.¡±


    Back then, he left mercilessly without a hint of hesitation.


    Morgan¡¯s thoughts began to drift slightly as if recalling something. After a moment of silence, he said in


    a deep voice, ¡°What if I told you I regret it, Josie? Would you give me another chance?¡±


    Josie stuffed a steak into her mouth. ¡°Just a reminder, I¡¯ve been divorced before.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t care? It seems time really can change a lot. The person who used to dodge at the mere


    sight of my father now doesn¡¯t even care that I¡¯ve been divorced¡±


    With a mocking smile, Josie was filled with nostalgia for the past.


    Morgan¡¯s previously calm expression wavered for a moment, and guilt swiftly followed. ¡°Everyone said.


    back then you were forcing a marriage, and I didn¡¯t want to get married. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Josie said, having already let go of the past. ¡°But what about now? If I asked you to


    marry me this instant, could you do it?¡±


    Morgan looked at her, his eyes brimming with surprise and joy. ¡°Of course.¡±


    As he spoke, he raised his hand to signal his secretary to make arrangements. Josie quickly held him


    down. eximing, ¡°Are you out of your mind!¡±


    ¡°The Bastille family and Bastille Group are already mine. No one can influence my decisions when it


    comes to marriage,¡± Morgan answered seriously.


    This is madness. Josie didn¡¯t expect him to be so bold. ¡°I was just joking.¡±


    Morgan took her hand in his, his gaze filled with endless affection. ¡°Just remember. What Dexter can¡¯t


    give you, I can.¡±


    Listening, Josie felt torn apart. She forcefully pulled back her hand, stood up, and was about to leave


    when suddenly, she remembered something.

 Chapter 817 The Negative Was Handed Over

    Chapter 817 The Negative Was Handed Over


    ¡°Since you¡¯ve invested in La Oriele, do you know Mr. Dalton?¡± asked Josie.


    Morgan leaned back in his chair, nonchntly saying, ¡°Who in Rivodia doesn¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°Have you met him?¡±


    Morgan seemed to be thinking. ¡°I¡¯ve met him once. He was wearing a mask, so I don¡¯t know what he


    looks like.¡±


    Josie snorted coldly. ¡°With a personality like yours, shouldn¡¯t you dig until you find the truth? Aren¡¯t you


    curious about his background?¡±


    ¡°In business, it¡¯s all about profit. As long as he can bring me returns, I don¡¯t need to know who he is or


    what he looks like,¡± Morgan reminded, toying with the knife and fork in his hand.


    Josie furrowed her brows, feeling the chasm between the two of them growing wider and wider. ¡°La


    Oricle is no ce for the virtuous. You¡¯d better back off if you don¡¯t want to drag the Bastille family into


    this.¡±


    Morgan remained seated. ¡°Are you showing concern for me?¡±


    Josi? gritted her teeth. ¡°I have a grudge against them, and I¡¯m just afraid that when the timees to.


    settle scores, you¡¯ll be roped into this.¡±


    The amusement in Morgan¡¯s eyes became more evident. ¡°You dare to provoke Mr. Dalton?¡±


    When Josie recalled how Wayne almost took her life, she couldn¡¯t help but wish to kill him. ¡°Why


    should I be afraid of him?¡±


    She¡¯s as brave as ever. Morgan nodded. ¡°Indeed, there¡¯s no need for you to.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with him any longer. Hence, she left directly, but she couldn¡¯t find.


    Angel. She circled around but couldn¡¯t find anyone. Instead, she got lost and ended up standing


    outside an emergency exit.


    She was about to leave when suddenly she caught a whiff of smoke. It was a familiar brand, the one


    that Dexter often smoked.


    In response, she approached the staircase, and sure enough, she saw the flickering mes.


    There, she heard Larry speaking. ¡°Mr. Russell, we just received news. The higher-ups have already


    signed a cooperation agreement with the Carter Group. However, there¡¯s a high chance that our people


    can intercept the deal. Arnold won¡¯t be able to seed.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, neither approving nor disapproving.


    Larry hesitated for a moment before handing over an envelope. ¡°From Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Dexter inhaled deeply, discarded the cigarette butt, and stomped on it. Then, he picked up the


    envelope to open it. After checking the content inside, he spoke in a heavy tone. ¡°Today is the third day.


    She sure knows her ce, and there¡¯s no way she¡¯ll dare to gamble. After all, we also have her photos.


    If they were


    to be released, she would no longer be the future heir of the Olsen family.¡±


    They also have the photos? Josie pondered. asked Larry.


    Upon hearing that, Josie suddenly understood what Dexter held in his hand¡­.


    ¡°How many years has it been since his father passed?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was slightly hoarse from


    smoking.


    ¡°It should be about six or seven years now,¡± answered Larry.


    ¡°Go handle it.¡± Dexter needn¡¯t specify what to do for Larry to understand. Thetter promptly turned.


    around and left.


    Dexter stood in ce for a while, his figure thin exuding a mncholic and quiet aura.


    He turned around with an envelope in his hand. Josie took the opportunity to walk out, and they


    crossed paths.


    Dexter wasn¡¯t surprised in the least. He handed over an envelope and a lighter, saying, ¡°Destroy it or


    keep it. It¡¯s up to you.¡±


    He knew all along that she was there.


    Josie didn¡¯t respond, feeling she couldn¡¯t understand that man. ¡°Who nned this?¡±


    ¡°Summer is unwilling to speak. Handing over the negatives is her bottom line.¡± Dexter¡¯s hand paused in


    mid-air as he smiled mysteriously. ¡°Why couldn¡¯t Arnold have been one of the people who nned


    this?¡± ¡°He couldn¡¯t have done it, considering he was badly injured at the time.¡± Josie answered quickly,


    Dexter responded to her with a hint of mockery. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, he¡¯s Mr. Dalton¡¯s man.¡±


    Josie hesitated but still took the envelope, feeling a small USB drive inside.


    She hadn¡¯t seen Dexter for several days. He was absent from the conference, so she spected that


    he might have gone to the hospital to treat the injury on his back.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 818 One Of The Partners

    Chapter 818 One Of The Partners


    Josie wanted to ask something, but couldn¡¯t find the words. ¡°¡­Thank you.¡±


    Realizing that the man before her had once braved storms with her during their youth, Josie felt a


    peculiar sensation. Unfortunately, he was unaware that she was Liana.


    In fact, there were times when she was upset because of Liana. In other words, she was jealous of


    herself.


    She turned around, and Dexter suddenly spoke. ¡°After Morgan went abroad, he had been with several


    women.¡±


    Speaking of which, Josie furrowed her brows, turning around to ask, ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    Dexter reached into his pocket, contemting lighting another cigarette. However, he decided against


    it. upon realizing something. ¡°Your first love isn¡¯t loyal to you.¡±


    Josie moved forward.


    ¡°He prioritizes his own interests. He has no feelings for you.¡±


    Josie paused again, finding his words somewhat amusing. ¡°Mr. Russell, you seem to care a lot about


    me.¡±


    Dexter remained silent without giving a response.


    She looked at the man standing a step below her when a sudden mischievous thought crossed her


    mind. ¡°It¡¯s quite normal for an adult man to have women around him. What matters is to whom his heart


    belongs and for whom he is willing to make sacrifices. Isn¡¯t that right, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes slightly.


    ¡°After we got married, can you say there haven¡¯t been any women around you putting on a show?¡± Her


    mockery intensified.


    Dexter cut straight to the point. ¡°Can you ept him?¡±


    Josie looked serious. ¡°I¡¯m still considering.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t hold back. He lit up a cigarette and said, ¡°Your rtionship with me isn¡¯t pure. Morgan is


    trying to be with you simply because he wants to control me and even Wavery¡¯s economy through you.


    When men act, their performance is no less convincing than women.¡±


    It was difficult to tell if Josie understood itpletely or not. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the same as what you did at the


    beginning? I¡¯m already used to it.¡±


    As the ash from Dexter¡¯s cigarette fell, the look in his eyes grew indifferent. ¡°First love is indeed


    different. You can¡¯t ept my act, yet you can ept his.¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josir chuckled softly as if she could smell the hint of jealousy that wasn¡¯t really there.


    ¡°The Bastille family will never ept a woman without a background or pedigree as Mrs. Bastille. If


    you¡¯re na?ve enough to believe otherwise, then only disappointment awaits you.¡± Dexter stared at her


    as he spoke word by word.¡±


    It seemed he already knew most of what she had discussed with Morgan earlier.


    Josie nced at the ceiling, feigning nonchnce. ¡°What if he¡¯s just so in love with me that he can¡¯t


    help. himself? Moreover, what if my time in the Bastille family just so happened to be smooth sailing?¡±


    Dexter chuckled quietly, stepping upward, instantly towering over her by more than a head. He leaned


    down, whispering into her ear, ¡°There¡¯s absolutely no chance of that happening.¡±


    Josie instinctively shivered as he leaned toward her, feeling a burning itch in her ear.


    ¡°One is the city¡¯s biggest taxpayer in the open, the other is the emperor of the city¡¯s underground. Do


    you think they could peacefully coexist in this city without colluding?¡± Dexter moved closer, whispering


    softly, his thin lips barely brushing against her earlobe.


    Such contact was like a cruel torture.


    ¡°Morgan¡¯s not just an investor at La Oriele. He¡¯s also one of the partners. Has he mentioned this to


    you?¡± Dexter looked at her furrowed brows. ¡°It seems he hasn¡¯t. You¡¯ve been messing around with


    Arnold. How much do you think he knows? It¡¯s foolish of you to judge such a secretive person solely by


    their outward appearance.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s cigarette burnedpletely, searing his fingertips. He tossed it on the ground, stamped it out,


    and walked away.


    Josie stood still, watching his silhouette disappear into the light, feeling almost drained of all strength.


    The situation was far moreplex than she had imagined. Breaking free from it was not as simple as


    she thought.


    Josie returned to her room and immediately plugged the USB into herputer. One by one, the


    images, appeared. As expected, the man¡¯s face in those images was that of the unconscious Arnold.


    After she finished viewing the pictures, she discovered something


    Every photo was deliberately taken to avoid her back so that her birthmark was never captured.

 Chapter 819 Once Shared A Kiss

    Chapter 819 Once Shared A Kiss


    Avoiding her was a deliberate move because she was aware of her identity. In other words, the


    mastermind intentionally concealed her identity, fearing that it might be exposed.


    From the conversation between Dexter and Larry, Josie learned that Summer had given them the


    negative. Does she also know that Heather is also an imposter? What on earth are they trying to do?


    Josie sat in front of theputer, lost in thought, unable to make sense of the recent turn of events. If it


    has to do with the Olsen family, does that mean I can trace Pop¡¯s disappearance back to them?


    With that thought, Josie suddenly felt like she had a clearer understanding of the situation.


    ¡°Josie.¡± Angel suddenly opened the door. ¡°When did you get back?¡±


    Josie quickly closed herputer and turned around. ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bastille¡¯s secretary invited me for a meal, and when I returned, you were gone.¡± Angel leaned in


    curiously. ¡°I heard that you have a close rtionship with Mr. Bastille. Is that true?¡±


    Josie asked calmly. ¡°Is that what his secretary said?¡±


    Angel nodded in response.


    ¡°We were just ordinary friends who once shared a kiss,¡± Josie said, astonishing Angel and leaving her


    speechless, even though she had mentally prepared herself for it.


    Angel inquired further, ¡°Does that mean Mr. Bastille wanted to rekindle an old me?¡±


    ¡°He must be dreaming.¡± Josie replied quickly, her gaze falling on Angel¡¯s face. ¡°Is it hot outside? Why is


    your face red?¡±


    Angel felt a bit nervous, covering her face. ¡°I-Is it? I don¡¯t think so.¡± Then she hurried into the bathroom


    to look in the mirror.


    Josie watched her figure, her thoughts drifting away as if she had figured something out.


    Josie was not initially keen on attending the event, but when the attendant who came to notify her


    mentioned that Dexter would be attending the party with a femalepanion tonight, her interest was


    piqued.


    It was clear that the femalepanion was Heather, and because of that, Josie changed her mind and


    decided to attend the party.


    Angel yed along with the misunderstanding, ¡°Let¡¯s go pick out a beautiful dress to outshine everyone


    cise, shall we?¡±


    Josie chuckled ¡°The guests there are all capable businesspeople, so no one has the time to pay


    attention to their looks. This isn¡¯t a social gathering for socialites¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Angel let out a sigh In the meantime, Josie picked out adies ck jumpsum. It was subtly revealing


    at the chest, sexy yet sleek, bearing quite the resemnce to a business professional¡¯s autre


    Angel was surprised by the outfit Josie had chosen As Josie looked at her reflection in the miror, she


    could not help but remints about her innocent appearance when she first entered the professional world


    Upon arriving at the venue, Josie noticed most of thedies were dressed in a simr fashion as


    expected. Morgan was on stage, delivering a speech on finance. Josie raised a ss of wine, making a


    round of toast with everyone present.


    Everyone wasughing, showing varying degrees of admiration for Josie. Over the past few days, she


    had not only managed to avoid appearing dispirited but also kept herself from making headlines with


    her ex- husband, Dexter.


    It seemed she was a carefree woman who was unfazed by her past.


    Morgan was speaking on stage when his gaze fell upon her, lingering for quite a while. Josie could feel


    his eyes on her, but she chose to look away.


    The celebratory party was already halfway through when Dexter arrived fashionablyte. He mingled


    effortlessly with everyone, his words and actions all perfectly appropriate.


    As expected, Heather turned out to be his plus-one.


    When the two walked side by side, Heather presented herself as if she were the future Mrs. Russell.


    Just when everyone was specting, Morgan finished his speech and stepped down from the stage.


    Under the gaze of the crowd, he walked straight toward Josie.


    She watched him walking over with wide eyes, a sense of foreboding washing over her.


    Morgan stood in front of her, asking Josie in front of everyone, ¡°Are you happy with this venue?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, looking around without noticing anything out of the ordinary.


    ¡°That piano-we¡¯ve yed it before,¡± Morgan responded with a faint smile, looking at the piano on stage


    that shimmered under the spotlight.

 Chapter 820 He Taught Her Piano

    Chapter 820 He Taught Her Piano


    In an instant, Josie felt a chill run down his spine. He¡¯s doing this on purpose,


    ¡°The piano should be at Wavery University, shouldn¡¯t it?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I bought it over from the school,¡± Morgan replied, taking her hand and idly ying with her fingers. ¡°It¡¯s


    old and the quality is nowhere near as good as the pianos today, but it¡¯s part of our shared memories,


    isn¡¯t it?¡±


    His tone was casual, yet it caused Josie to shudder.


    When they were together for two years, they were popr figures in the school. On the day of the


    school anniversary, Morgan led her onto the stage, and they yed a duet, their hands moving in


    harmony. Their performance remained the talk of the town for a long time.


    Everyone said that Morgan¡¯s affection for Josie ran deep to his very core.


    If he had not mentioned their shared past, Josie would have already forgotten about it.


    She closed her eyes briefly, lowering her voice. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Why not put on a show for your ex-husband?¡± Morgan suggested, his smile contrasting with the icy


    coldness in his eyes.


    Josie looked up and noticed Dexter was not far away. Heather was talking to him about something, but


    he seemed uninterested. It was unclear whether he was listening or not. He would definitely kill me if


    he finds out that I learned piano four hands from Morgan!


    ¡°I can¡¯t y,¡± she said coldly.


    ¡°Are you not going to y?¡± Morgan moved closer to her, whispering in her ear, ¡°Don¡¯t you want to


    annoy her a bit? Josie, I¡¯m willing to be used by you.¡±


    He was referring to Heather..


    Frowning, just as Josie was about to retort, a sudden thought struck her. She curved her lips into a


    smile and caught hold of his fingers. ¡°It¡¯s been a while. I might not y as well.¡±


    Holding hands, they walked onto the stage together.


    Morgan was pleased and said nonchntly, ¡°I think you y quite well with him.¡±


    In a stealthy manner, Josie gave him a kick under the table.


    To the onlookers, it was quite a shock. They never expected Josie to have a connection with the eldest


    son of the Bastille family. It seemed that he was even willing to take orders from her.


    Their every move caught the eyes of the other guests. Even Heather could not help but subconsciously


    murmur, ¡°Isn¡¯t that Ms. Warren?¡±


    A glint of cold light shed in Dexter¡¯s eyes as he intently watched the two on stage


    Morgan was the first to raise his hand, pressing a key on the piano. Without hesitation, Josie quickly


    followed suit.


    The piece that he yed was Mariage d¡¯Amour.


    When the two of them were on good terms, they practiced this piece extensively. Josie was a bit rusty,


    but Morgan patiently guided her, making the imperfections almost imperceptible.


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As time went on, they got into the swing of things, and the two of them even yed better than when


    they were ying it alone.


    The melodious piano music wafted through the hall, causing everyone to unconsciously set aside their


    tasks to listen attentively.


    Josie was somewhat surprised herself. After all these years, she could not believe she could still keep


    up with Morgan¡¯s pace in ying the piano.


    In a gentle voice, Morgan uttered, ¡°What¡¯s with the surprised look? I trained you. No one knows you


    better than I do, not even Dexter.¡±


    As the song ended, Morgan took her hand, looked at everyone in the audience, and announced loudly,


    ¡°My girlfriend is a bit shy. We hope you enjoyed our performance.¡±


    Everyone froze for a moment. After processing the announcement in their minds, they began to


    apud.


    Morgan had been back in the country for so long without any rumors of a woman in his life, but now, he


    publicly announced that Josie was his girlfriend!


    Josie tried to pull her hand away from Morgan. ¡°Are you out of your mind?¡± She quickly grabbed the


    mic and rified, ¡°He made a mistake. I¡¯m his ex-girlfriend.¡±


    The crowd could not help but gasp upon hearing this, as there was a lot of information for them to


    process.


    Morgan did not take it to heart. ¡°Could you give me another chance?¡±


    This time, it was not a private conversation between two people; he popped the question in front of all


    the guests.


    Josie¡¯s heart was racing, not from excitement, but from the intense gaze directed at her from below the


    stage. It made her feel as if she were suffocating, as though impending punishment hung in the air.

 Chapter 821 Plastic Surgery

    Chapter 821 stic Surgery


    Everyone was surprised that Morgan, of such high status, would publicly pursue a woman who had


    been. divorced!


    On stage, Josie found herself in a difficult position. Underneath the table, she was stepping on his foot


    in secret with her high heels, wishing she could crush him underfoot.


    She gave a smile that didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°That depends on your capabilities, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    After finishing her speech, she hurriedly left the stage. To avoid further questioning, Josie headed


    straight for the restroom. Unexpectedly, someone followed her.


    In the mirror, she saw Heather step forward with a smile. ¡°Congrattions.¡±


    Josie turned on the tap to wash her hands. ¡°Congrattions for what?¡±


    ¡°Congrattions on your good fortune to have a good man pursuing you right after your divorce. You¡¯re


    luckier than most women,¡± Heather said, opening her handbag and taking out a makeup case to touch


    up her makeup.


    ¡°Good fortune?¡± Josie chuckled as she pulled out a piece of paper to wipe off the water droplets on her


    hands, then walked over to Heather¡¯s side. ¡°Is that how you usually describe a woman¡¯s feelings,


    Heather? It seems like you don¡¯t think highly of a woman¡¯s status.¡±


    Heather visibly stiffened, changing the subject. ¡°My name is Liana now.¡±


    Josie nced sideways, gazing at her. Seeing her furrowed brows, she smiled. ¡°I¡¯ve gotten used to it.¡±


    Afterward, she took the eyebrow pencil from her hand and carefully drew eyebrows for Heather.


    ¡°I often frequent the nightlife establishments, and I¡¯ve heard manydies there talk like this. It¡¯s their


    way of promoting themselves,¡± Josie said. As she spoke, she pulled out an eyebrow brush and brushed


    her eyebrows. She then flicked it in her hand. ¡°This eyebrow pencil of yours isn¡¯t very good. I¡¯ll get you


    one from a brand I often use next time.¡±


    Heather stared at her, trying to decipher her intentions. A subtle anxiety was clearly visible in her eyes.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I was just wondering if you¡¯ve been in such situations before, causing you to use such an


    adjective.¡±


    ¡°Josie, as you know, Ie from a humble background, Heather carefully responded.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s understandable,¡± Josie said with a lightugh ¡°Once you be Mrs. Russell, you can¡¯t


    say things like that anymore. Dexter would get upset¡±


    Heather¡¯s brows furrowed deeper and deeper. She hadn¡¯t expected Josie to respond like this, her face


    tillest with suspicion. ¡°Y-You¡¯re not angry?¡±


    ¡°Why should I be mad? There¡¯s no going back for hund me Considering we¡¯re both women. I in just


    giving you a heads-up¡± Josieughed lightly, appearing very rxed


    She even extended her hand to help Heather adjust her shipping shoulder strap


    Heather tensed up once agam instinctively taking a step back if she was afcard fonic would see her


    back


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Will you be with Morgan then?¡±


    After giving it some serious thought, Josie said, ¡°Who knows?¡±


    ¡°What about Arnold?¡±


    When asked about that, Josie suddenlyughed. ¡°That¡¯s your brother-inw.¡±


    Only then did Heather realize herpse inposure. She nodded in acknowledgment, gathered her


    belongings, and turned to leave.


    ¡°Heather.¡± Josie called out to her.


    Heather turned her head, correcting Josie once again, ¡°My name is Liana.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t deny it. Instead, she walked over step by step. ¡°You forgot the eyebrow pencil.¡± She stuffed


    the item into her hand. During their brief skin contact, she looked deeply into Heather¡¯s eyes before


    withdrawing her gaze.


    Heather quickly walked away. For some reason, during that encounter with Josie, Josie¡¯s aura was


    exceptionally strong and somewhat mysterious. On the other hand, she herself was filled with panic.


    Josie stood still after Heather left. She took out a small transparent bag, carefully ced a short


    eyebrow hair that she had been twirling between her fingers into it, and then put it away.


    While performing that series of actions, she was devoid of any emotion. Instead, she was cold-blooded.


    She just realized Heather must have undergone stic surgery, which sometimes made her expression


    appear quite stiff. How schemeful.

 Chapter 822 Video

    Chapter 822 Video


    When Josie stepped out again, the celebration feast was already drawing to a close.


    She had already be the center of attention in the room. With Morgan¡¯s move, many who originally


    looked down on her had now gathered around, hoping to get familiar with her.


    Josie had achieved her goal and had no intention of staying any longer. She scanned the room but


    didn¡¯t see Dexter. At that point, she didn¡¯t have the energy to worry about him anymore.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Morgan chased after her from the farthest corner, following behind Josie.


    ¡°Back to the hotel,¡± Josie said, not breaking her stride.


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk you out.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, nced at him, then at the crowd behind. ¡°Can you?¡± He is the host, and all


    these people need to be attended to.


    As expected, Morgan did show some hesitation. He changed his approach. ¡°I¡¯ll have my secretary take


    you.¡±


    ¡°No need. I can drive,¡± Josie tly refused.


    He held her wrist to prevent her from leaving. Suddenly, a bitter smile appeared on his face. ¡°In those


    two years, whenever I mentioned Rivodia, you always mored for me to bring you here to y. Now


    that we¡¯re really here, why won¡¯t you give me a chance?¡±,


    Speaking of that, it felt like they had returned to the innocent days of being students.


    Josie let out a sigh, looking up at the bright moon hanging in the sky. ¡°Morgan, we¡¯ve grown up, haven¡¯t


    we? You really don¡¯t need to wade through this mess with me. You have a bright future in Rivodia,


    while my future is uncertain.¡±


    Morgan simply curled his lips. ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. All you need to do is provide me with the opportunity.


    and I¡¯ll handle the rest.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what I¡¯m going to do?¡±


    ¡°Your father has gone missing.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°This matter might involve the three major families in Wavery.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°I can get it done for you.¡± Morgan¡¯s confidence was as unwavering as always.


    Josie looked at him with a meaningful gaze before finally withdrawing it. ¡°I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    This time, Morgan didn¡¯t catch up. Angel, who was standing nearby, was utterly confused. She quickly


    followed and asked, ¡°Ms. Jo, what if we need his help in the future since you rejected him like this?¡±


    ¡°Did I refuse?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Josie stepped swiftly and lightly, disappearing into the night.


    Back at the hotel, Dexter¡¯s car was parked downstairs.


    The car window rolled down. Dexter sat in the back seat, examining her under a cluster of lights, his


    expression unreadable. ¡°You¡¯re not with anyone?¡±


    Josie felt something was off, but she couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on it. She stood still. ¡°Angel has gone


    to park the car.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, just staring at her. After a while, hezily stretched his hand out of the car


    window, holding a mobile phone. On the screen, a series of videos were ying on loop.


    The night was dim and rain pattered down. Arnold held her hand, battling alongside a dozen


    bodyguards. Blood sttered across the lens but was quickly wiped clean. Two figures tangled


    together as they fought for their lives.


    Such a thrilling scene, once experienced, was unforgettable.


    Josie¡¯s pulse was racing. She had no idea where Dexter got the video from.


    Just then, a gunshot echoed in the video. It was Josie who had fired the gun to protect Arnold.


    Dexter¡¯s face suddenly took on an undisguised grimness. He put away his phone, the veins on the


    back of his hand bulging.


    At that moment, the driver got out of the car and opened the door, indicating that she was invited to get


    Josie closed her eyes for a moment, knowing he wouldn¡¯t just let it go. She had no choice but to sit in


    the back seat.


    Dexter turned off his phone, the sound disappearing with it. He asked coldly, ¡°You used the gun I gave


    you to protect another man, is that it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s body tensed up. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t used it at that moment, both of us would have died.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t die.¡± Dexter leaned in, hisrge hand loosely encircling her neck. ¡°He loves you so much,


    so how could he bear to lose you?¡±


    ¡°Dexter-¡±

 Chapter 823 The First Time

    Chapter 823 The First Time


    He abruptly increased his strength, and a feeling of suffocation followed.


    ¡°Even if something goes wrong, Morgan will do everything he can to get you out, won¡¯t he!¡±


    Dexter moved closer, his thin lips pressing against her lower jaw, almost brushing against her ear. Josie


    felt a chill down her spine, gasping for breath. ¡°Who gave you the video?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you before,¡± Dexter said, noticing her flushed face and slightly loosening his grip. ¡°Morgan and


    Wayne are partners.¡±


    It¡¯s Morgan¡­ Josie was somewhat reluctant to believe it. Not long ago, he said he could help me.


    Seeing the calcting look in her eyes, Dexter quickly guessed what she was thinking. He scoffed.


    ¡°You¡¯re courting death, thinking you can make Morgan bow his head. You¡¯re too full of yourself.¡±


    He spoke those words with anger. Evidently, he was upset.


    Josie tilted her head back, grabbing his wrist, trying to break free.


    ¡°My ex-wife is quite capable. All the men around her are big shots.¡± Dexter curled his thin lips in


    mockery. ¡°But she isn¡¯t very smart, allowing herself to be used by each one of them. Tell me, what does


    it take for her to realize that I am her only pir of support?¡±


    Josie felt suffocated, listening to him.


    Whenever Dexter went on a rampage, he wouldn¡¯t stop until his anger was vented.


    ¡°You, huh? You¡¯ve been taking Heather to important events. Isn¡¯t that your way of announcing to the


    world that she¡¯s the future Mrs. Russell?¡± Josie asked him, word by word. Aren¡¯t you the same? You¡¯re


    someone who will stop at nothing for the sake of profit?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were unfathomably deep as he held her chin, forcing her to part her lips. ¡°Such a sharp


    tongue you have. Has Morgan kissed it yet?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°He taught you how to y the piano.¡± His voice carried the calm before the storm of rage.


    ¡°What else did he teach you?¡± The man¡¯s hand, adorned with rosary beads, slowly extended


    downward, a roughnessced itsnguid movement.


    The sound of her zipper being pulled down rang out.


    Josie screamed, baung down on the back of his hand, ¡°Dexter! You beast!¡±


    This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter didn¡¯t hold bark at all He knew exactly where she was most sensitive and was particrly


    intense Scring herplex expression as she ulted her head back in embarrassment, he chuckled


    lightly ¡°Has Morgan ever seep you like dus! I don¡¯t think so. Your first time was with me


    ¡°Dexter¡¯ I swear Fifcall the patice! Josie was almost out of breath and even though she had baten his


    Land hard crengh to draw blood by all wouldn¡¯t let go pet hearing that in pressed deeper Josie sop to


    risks others have taught you on me I find it repulsive


    ¡°We¡¯re already divorced. You have no right to control me anymore.¡± Josie took a deep breath, like a fish


    out of water.


    ¡°Your body is more honest than your words.¡± Dexter coldly observed her conflicted demeanor. Finally,


    his irritation dissipated.


    Josie closed her eyes in defeat, realizing that her body, which he had trained, was now beyond even


    her own control.


    She didn¡¯t know how much time had passed when she shivered all over. Dexter finally let her go,


    pulling out a piece of paper to clean his fingers. ¡°Even if we¡¯re divorced, you¡¯re still my woman.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips trembled, unable to utter a single word.


    He opened the car door. ¡°When we get back to Wavery, I¡¯ll give you a gift.¡±


    The night wind blew in, dispersing the scent of intimacy. Josie transitioned from burning passion to cool


    calmness, shivering slightly.


    She stumbled out of the car, looking at him as if he were a demon. ¡°Beast.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t mind. The driver had already gotten into the car. He spoke up. ¡°Drive.¡±


    The vehicle sped off, its exhaust fumes swirling into nothingness. Josie felt weak, wishing nothing more


    than to kill Dexter.

 Chapter 824 Taking Photos

    Chapter 824 Taking Photos


    Josie returned to the hotel, still unable to calm down. The more she thought about it, the angrier she


    became.


    Angel said from outside, ¡°Ms. Jo, the flight is booked. We¡¯re leaving tomorrow afternoon.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Early the next morning, Josie called Morgan. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to see me off? Take me to the


    airport this afternoon.¡±


    There was clearly a pause on the other end, then augh. ¡°What the matter? You want to make it


    public?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested. Are you sending me to the airport or not?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Morgan didn¡¯t disappoint, showing up punctually at the hotel entrance in the afternoon. His secretary


    personally drove the car, with Angel sitting in the front seat while Josie and Morgan sat in the back.


    ¡°Try the specialty of Rivodia, the caramel custard,¡± Morgan said, cing a dish in front of her.


    Josie didn¡¯t move. ¡°Did you wait in line to buy this?¡±


    Morgan was quite honest. ¡°My secretary bought it.¡±


    In the rearview mirror, the secretary touched his nose, feeling somewhat apologetic.


    Josie handed it over to Angel.


    Thetter was somewhat taken aback, unsure whether to ept or not. Josie nodded in indication, and


    Morgan didn¡¯t react otherwise, so Angel took it.


    ¡°You¡¯re leaving so soon? From the sound of it, I thought you were going to explore La Oriele.¡± Morgan


    was very busy, still reviewing documents in the car.


    Josie was sitting in the corner, engrossed in her phone. ¡°That¡¯s a matter for the police.¡±


    Morgan nced at her. ¡°Actually, Rivodia has more potential for development than Wavery. The little


    power that Russell Group gives you, I can give you more in the Bastille family.¡±


    Josie also nced at him. ¡°I¡¯ll just be working, so what¡¯s the difference?¡±


    Morgan smiled, picking up a document, and after perusing it for a moment, he said. ¡°This morning. I


    drove Shawn out of Rivodia. Dexter¡¯s n to use him to disrupt our morale has failed.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. She hadn¡¯t expected that Dexter had done all these things. ¡°I¡¯m not


    interested in your family affairs.¡±


    The first time he met Shawn was the day he saw Heather in Rivodia.¡± Morgan suddenly revealed the


    crucial news.


    That left Josie taken aback ¡°How did you know?¡±


    ¡°Because not long after that day, news came from Wavery that the long-lost daughter of the Olsen


    family had been found.¡± Morgan¡¯s smile was radiant, with a hint of mystery mixed in.


    Josie gripped her phone tightly. ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just a coincidence,¡± Morgan said, returning his attention to the documents.


    Upon arriving at the airport, the secretary collected their luggage. Morgan apanied her all the way


    to the security check. During that time, Angel whispered to Josie, ¡°There are reporters taking pictures.¡±


    Josie noticed as well. She subtly closed the distance between her and Morgan. ¡°You can control these


    reporters, can¡¯t you?¡±


    Morgan smoothly ced his hand on her shoulder. ¡°Who are you trying to impress by suddenly making


    such a show? You¡¯re the first one who dares to use me.¡±


    Josie shook off his hand. ¡°If you¡¯re unwilling, you can leave right now.¡±


    ¡°Sure. I¡¯ve said it before. I¡¯m more than happy to be used by you,¡± Morgan said,ughing nonchntly.


    Upon arriving at the VIP lounge, they ran into a few acquaintances.


    udia and Heather were also on the same flight.


    The former sat in the corner, eyes closed, quietly and devoutly fiddling with the rosary beads in her


    hand.


    Every time Josie saw her, her heart would find peace. But this time, there was an added tension. Her


    fingers clenched tightly, turning pale, as a myriad of emotions welled up in her eyes.


    What bothered her was that Heather was sitting next to her.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ms. Warren.¡± Heather got to her feet, breaking the brief silence.


    Suddenly, Josie snapped back to reality, only to see udia had also opened her eyes. She was


    looking at her with a steady and undisturbed gaze.


    ¡°We meet again.¡± She nodded.

 Chapter 825 Cherish Your Mother

    Chapter 825 Cherish Your Mother


    Upon hearing Josie¡¯s voice, udia slowly opened her eyes.


    She couldn¡¯t help but wonder if it was some sort of illusion, as when Josie and Heather stood side by


    side, they looked so alike that she almost mistook one for the other. However, upon closer examination,


    significant differences in their appearances became apparent.


    Josie nodded in greeting, and udia responded with a slight curve of her lips. They were once old


    acquaintances who had once shared their lives but now felt like strangers, separated by invisible


    barriers.


    ¡°Now that it¡¯s delivered, you should go now,¡± Josie said, turning to adjust Morgan¡¯s tie. The gesture


    seemed natural as if they shared a deep connection.


    Morgan withdrew his gaze and, in one swift motion, took her hand. ¡°Are you just going to let me leave


    like this?¡±


    Josie shot him a silent nce, managing to squeeze out a smile. ¡°You¡¯re on your own in Rivodia. Take


    good care of yourself and don¡¯t make me worry.¡±


    These words didn¡¯t quite sound like something she would say. A yful and satisfied smile curled up at


    the corners of Morgan¡¯s mouth. ¡°That¡¯s quite simple.¡±


    -Nevertheless, he still didn¡¯t release her hand.


    Josie pulled her hand away with a bit of force. ¡°Don¡¯t let me catch you involved in any scandals with


    other women, or I might just have toe back.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s grasp missed its mark, but his smile remained, thoroughly enjoying himself. ¡°Rivodia


    wees. you anytime.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he gave Josie a hug, his voice resonating in her ear. ¡°I wish this y could


    go on forever.¡±


    Josie subtly pushed him away, smiling as she said, ¡°Have a safe journey. I¡¯ll message you when I get


    there.¡±


    Morgan reluctantly stepped back, and the expression on his face was unmistakably that of a man in


    love.


    After he left, Josie moved to sit next to Heather. Thetter asked, ¡°Is it moving this fast? Wasn¡¯t he still


    pursuing you just yesterday?¡±


    Josie expressed her confusion. ¡°I never said I was with him, did 1?¡±


    Seeing Heather¡¯s curious expression, she smiled and said, ¡°Who can predict the future? If a man is


    willing to give, let him give. After all, there¡¯s no loss.¡±


    Heather¡¯s smile was somewhat forced, likely because it was challenging to speak freely around


    udia.


    ¡°Ms Hadey Josie suddenly called out.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Startled, Heather looked up, her attention fully on Joste now.


    udia nced over her expression questioning


    Josir¡¯s breathing slowed as she closely examined the older woman¡¯s face ¡°Has the worship ceremony


    in Rivodia concluded I was wondering when I could n my next visit perhaps our schedules might


    align next quarter.¡±


    udia¡¯s expression rxed somewhat when she heard this. ¡°It¡¯s already over. There¡¯s no need for us


    to do it together. You don¡¯t believe in religion, so there¡¯s no need to force it.¡±


    Her words implied a certain understanding between her and Josie as if they had known each other for


    a long time.


    Heather¡¯s posture stiffened, and she momentarily forgot to blink.


    ¡°Life at home has been filled with difficulties recently, so it¡¯s natural to turn to faith and seek sce in


    the words of God and the heavens,¡± Josie remarked as she moved behind udia, cing her hands


    on her shoulders. ¡°I believe you might have gone through something simr many years ago.¡±


    The mention of the past caused Heather to furrow her brow, and she couldn¡¯t resist interjecting. ¡°Those


    days are behind us; I¡¯ve already returned.¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Josie replied calmly. udia¡¯s once-dark hair had turned predominantly white. As she noticed


    this transformation, Josie¡¯s mood took a somber turn. ¡°Yet, it can¡¯t erase the pain of those years gone


    by. Look, Ms. Hadey¡¯s hair has turned white.¡±


    She mentioned this while plucking one of her white hairs and holding it up for Heather to see.


    At her action, udia furrowed her brows slightly. ¡°It¡¯s normal to have white hair as you age.¡±


    Josie smirked, lowering her hand to her side. ¡°I¡¯m just reminding Ms. Olsen not to forget her past and to


    cherish her mother.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I know that,¡± Heather said, her hands tightly sped in front of her, revealing her


    nervousness. She couldn¡¯t quite grasp Josie¡¯s intentions anymore.

 Chapter 826 Confirming Her Plastic Surgery

    Chapter 826 Confirming Her stic Surgery


    Just as Heather thought Josie might continue, thetter didn¡¯t make any further moves. Josie settled


    into her seat, dealing with official matters on herputer alongside Angel. The two groups didn¡¯t


    interact again until the ne was ready to take off.


    Heather sat beside udia, observing her mother closely. ¡°Mother, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t care about you¡­


    It¡¯s just that the past is also painful for me, and I¡¯d rather not dwell on it.¡±


    udia was once connected with Josie, and Heather was worried that Josie¡¯s words might affect the


    older woman.


    Upon hearing this, udia simply patted Heather¡¯s hand and sighed. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it, Leanne.


    You¡¯re my daughter, and you don¡¯t need to worry about such things. I¡¯m more concerned about you


    than anything else. When I think of the hardships and challenges you¡¯ve faced, it breaks my heart.¡±


    Heather rxed slightly at udia¡¯s words, a subtle hint of relief in her eyes.


    The airne soonnded in Wavery.


    Josie instructed Angel to deliver the documents to the Russell Group, while she took a taxi to another


    location.


    During the ride, she powered on her phone, and the first thing that caught her eye was today¡¯s news.


    A vivid picture of her and Morgan, appearing intimately close at the airport, filled her screen.


    In the photo, Morgan was adjusting her hair while she adjusted his tie, unmistakably portraying them as


    a couple deeply connected.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    The press reported that Josie had left Dexter and was immediately whisked away by a mysterious


    tycoon, which seemed like a deliberate provocation.


    A provocation, huh? Josie smiled. Well, I suppose so.


    The vehicle pulled up at Heaven on Earth. Before entering, Josie attempted to call Laura but was


    promptly hung up on. Puzzled, she received a message from Laura instead: I¡¯m busy. If there¡¯s


    something, just say it straight.


    Josie sensed an odd tone but initially thought she might be overthinking it. She began typing a


    response to ask for a favor when she suddenly heard someone call her name.


    ¡°Josie.¡±


    Startled, her finger slipped, identally sending the iplete message. She looked up and was


    surprised to see Mallory stepping out of another car, about to enter Heaven on Earth.


    The woman took off her sunsses and studied Josie intently.


    ¡°Mallory?¡± Josie walked over. ¡°What a coincidence.¡±


    Mallory nced around andmented, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of being photographed here, now that


    you¡¯re a famous celebrity?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re here with me and you always find a way to protect me.¡± Josie replied confidently


    Their connection was unusual. They didn¡¯t have much inmon, yet Josie instinctively trusted


    Mallory. It was as if she didn¡¯t need to question it; her trust in Mallory was unwavering.


    Mallory smiled and led Josie inside. They took the elevator to the top floor and entered a private room


    with the utmost privacy.


    ¡°Now, tell me, why did you want to meet all of a sudden?¡± Mallory inquired.


    Josie stood on the balcony, gazing at the surrounding view. ¡°I know,¡± she began, ¡°there¡¯s nothing in all


    of Wavery that Calvin doesn¡¯t know about. So, the fact that you¡¯ve managed to stay by his side for so


    long must mean you possess extraordinary abilities.¡±


    Mallory flipped her long hair back casually. ¡°Spare me the ttery and get to the point.¡±


    With a knowing smile, Josie pulled out her phone and showed Mallory a video. ¡°You¡¯ve seen this


    person. before. Take a close look. Do you think she¡¯s had any stic surgery on her face?¡±


    Mallory seemed surprised at first sight. ¡°She¡¯s the missing daughter of the Olsen family?¡±


    The video had been recorded covertly, but it was of such high quality that one could see every detail on


    Heather¡¯s face.


    Mallory surveyed the surroundings cautiously. ¡°Our country doesn¡¯t have such advanced stic


    surgery technology, so¡­¡±


    Josie¡¯s anticipation lifted as she waited for Mallory to continue.

 Chapter 827 Conducting A DNA Test

    Chapter 827 Conducting A DNA Test


    ¡°So, she has been abroad,¡± Mallory stated firmly as she examined the video closely. ¡°But there¡¯s not


    much change, just in the jaw and cheekbones. It¡¯s subtle, and only a professional would notice it.¡±


    Having spent a lot of time by Calvin¡¯s side, Mallory had encountered many women with various


    motives, making her adept at reading people.


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°Are you absolutely sure?¡±


    Mallory leaned against the railing, her expression shifting with the gentle breeze. ¡°I¡¯m quite sure. She


    didn¡¯t undergo stic surgery to enhance her beauty; she altered her original appearance, trying to


    be¡­¡±


    She struggled to find the right words, leaving her exnation iplete.


    Nevertheless, Josie felt relieved at her words. ¡°Thank you; you¡¯ve been a great help. I¡¯ll treat you to a


    meal, sometime.¡±


    Mallory wasn¡¯t done yet; she turned to ask, ¡°Is it true what they say about you and Morgan?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quite the gossip.¡± Josie sighed.


    ¡°I¡¯m not prying; I¡¯m just curious,¡± Mallory exined. ¡°Before you started making headlines with Morgan,


    the news about Dexter and Heather was all over the ce. I can¡¯t help but wonder if you did it to spite.


    him.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of irony. ¡°If he doesn¡¯t care at all, then what I¡¯m.


    doing is meaningless.¡±


    Mallory wiggled her finger at the other woman. ¡°Dexter returned to Wavery before you did; he met with


    Calvin this morning.¡±


    Josie was surprised. ¡°That fast?¡±


    ¡°Your expression still betrays some feelings for him,¡± Mallory observed.


    Hearing this, Josie was reminded of the way Dexter had punished her in the car the previous night, and


    she couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of anger. ¡°Don¡¯t disgust me.¡±


    Mallory chuckled and opened her arms for a hug. ¡°I¡¯m just relieved to see you¡¯re okay. When I first


    heard. about your divorce, I was quite worried.¡±


    Josie, her heart warmed by the gentle embrace, which had been cold for so long, felt on the verge of


    tears. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    This gesture solidified Josie¡¯s trust in Mallory even further.


    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s one more thing I need your help with,¡± Josie said as she pulled out a folder. ¡°Inside,


    there are three samples. Two of them need separate DNA tests, and they should bepared with the


    one from the person with white hair.¡±


    Initially nning to ask Laura for help, Josie now couldn¡¯t wait any longer. The sooner this matter was


    resolved, the better.


    Mallory opened the folder and examined its contents. One of the samples had a distinct marking. She


    seemed somewhat surprised as she asked, ¡°You suspect that¡­¡±


    Josie nodded, her expression serious. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure yet, but I need your help with this. Please


    keep it confidential. My public image is too conspicuous, so I have no choice but to handle it discreetly.¡±


    After a moment of contemtion, Mallory nodded slowly. ¡°I¡¯ll help you with this.¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie expressed her gratitude and then offered a suggestion, ¡°If possible, it would be best to conduct


    the tests in Lightspring. I have some concerns about the discretion of theboratories in Wavery.¡±


    Mallory understood the implication and nodded in agreement. ¡°I¡¯ll provide you with an answer within the


    next three days.¡±


    As Josie left Heaven on Earth, she received a message from Laura: What¡¯s going on? Also, everyone¡¯s


    talking about your scandal with Morgan. It¡¯s all over the city. Are you back?


    Josie chose to respond only to the first sentence: Everything is fine now.


    Meanwhile, amidst the gossip headlines, financial news was making waves.


    Russell Group had been bottom-fishing, delivering an unexpected blow to foreign investors. This


    prompted the Securities Regtory Commission tounch thorough investigations into major


    companies. to determine if there was any insider trading involving public information. The Carter Group


    was the first to face the consequences, with Arnold being taken in for questioning.


    Originally, Russell Group had been hit hard by the scandal involving Josie¡¯s photos. However, the


    recent developments had also erased some of the Carter Group¡¯s victories.


    Neither side achieved an absolute victory.


    However, the Carter Group faced another setback when a photo and video of Summer pa*sionately


    kissing a stranger in a bar emerged, dealing yet another heavy blow to their reputation.

 Chapter 828 Marriage Alliance

    Chapter 828 Marriage Alliance


    After returning to Wavery, Josie found herself working almost non-stop. She had rented a small


    condominium for herself, which, while not spacious, was sufficient for her needs.


    Most of the studio¡¯s affairs were now being handled by Alice, Angel, and others. Josie didn¡¯t even spare


    a nce for the nominal projects from Russell Group, dedicating all her attention to matters concerning


    the Olsen family.


    On one of Laura¡¯s visits, Josie happened to see photos of Dexter and Heather strolling around town..


    The photographer had captured their intimate behavior brilliantly, making it appear as if they were a


    genuine couple. The media coverage was equally sensational, suggesting that the two had met each


    other¡¯s parents, hinting at a potential marriage alliance between the Russell and Olsen families.


    ¡°Why is it so hard to find you? You should have stayed at my ce,¡± Laura expressed her


    dissatisfaction as she entered Josie¡¯s small apartment.


    Josie cleared a small corner for Laura to sit and replied, ¡°I¡¯ve been staying at your ce quite often; I


    didn¡¯t want to trouble you further.¡±


    Laura, clearly dissatisfied with this response, yfully punched Josic. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you see yourself as


    a burden? I¡¯ve been a bother to you as well.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie smiled and said, ¡°The headlines have been quite lively these past few days. It seems like the


    Olsens are on the brink of a major conflict.


    Laura sighed and sat down heavily, feeling overwhelmed. ¡°It¡¯s not just a conflict; it¡¯s practically a war.


    When Summer and Zach meet, it¡¯s like they want to tear each other apart.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°What else could it be? It¡¯s all because Summer is caught up in a scandal, and the Carter Group is still.


    under investigation. This situation has significant repercussions for the Olsen family. When interests


    are at stake, it often turns into a fierce battle.¡±


    ¡°What about you? You seem to be on Zach¡¯s side. Do you think you have a chance?¡± Josie asked.


    Laura raised an eyebrow and replied, ¡°Chances of winning? What¡¯s the point of defeating Summer


    when there¡¯s someone else waiting in the wings?¡±


    Josie understood that Laura was referring to Heather. ¡°But doesn¡¯t Heather only own ten percent of the


    shares?¡±


    ¡°True, but this youngdy has already captured your ex-husband¡¯s heart, and he represents the entire


    Russell Group. If they were to get married, both Zach and Summer would be sidelined,¡± Laura


    exined.


    The mention of Dexter made Josie¡¯s smile turn somewhat mncholic.


    Laura frowned and asked, ¡°The news mentions that you and Morgan have some sort of rtionship.


    What¡¯s going on? Are you really giving up on Dexter? Can you bear to do that?¡±


    Coincidentally, just as Morgan was mentioned, Josie¡¯s phone on the table rang. The caller ID indicated


    that the call was from Rivodia.


    Josie offered Laura an apologetic look, picked up her phone, and remained silent.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you would message me? I¡¯ve been waiting this whole time,¡± a young and charming


    voice on the other end of the line said.


    Josie was momentarily speechless and replied, ¡°I was just being polite when I said that. It was all just


    an act.¡±


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t treat it like a y. You told me you¡¯d message me, so I waited. I waited for two days, and


    nothing came. I got tired of waiting.¡±


    Even in their conversations, Morgan disyed a hint of anger and spoke in a tone that was both


    petnt and entitled.


    Josie let out an exasperatedugh, saying, ¡°Well, if you¡¯re willing to wait, go ahead, but don¡¯t expect


    me to send you anything even if you wait for two years.¡±


    Morgan, though clearly irritated, managed to find some amusement in the situation as he clenched his.


    teeth and responded, ¡°Two years, huh? I can certainly wait.¡±


    ¡°Do you have anything else to say? If not, I¡¯m hanging up.¡± Josie nced at Laura, and thetter¡¯s


    eyes sparkled with curiosity as they exchanged nces.


    Morgan, seemingly satisfied with hisst word, said, ¡°d to know you¡¯re safe,¡± before hanging up.


    Subsequently, Josie casually tossed her phone aside, prompting Laura to ask, ¡°Who was that? I¡¯ve


    never seen you so impatient before.¡±


    In actuality, she had vaguely heard a man¡¯s voiceing from the phone. His tone was rxed and


    not serious at all.


    ¡°Morgan.¡±


    Laura, her eyelids slightly lowered, masked her emotions andmented, ¡°Why would you talk to him


    in. that tone?¡±

 Chapter 829 Summer Has Harmed Herself

    Chapter 829 Summer Has Harmed Herself


    Josie, somewhat puzzled, inquired, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he the heir to the Bastille family, a person of great renown? Your tone didn¡¯t seem quite


    appropriate.¡±


    Josie sighed, revealing a touch of weariness, ¡°There¡¯s more to it. When I first met him, he was just a


    pampered young man who needed constant attention. He didn¡¯t even want to be the heir.¡±


    As Josie talked about Morgan, it was evident that she had a deep understanding of him.


    Laura fell into a brief contemtion. It had only just urred to her today, after hearing their


    conversation, how well-acquainted Josie and Morgan were with each other. There were very few


    individuals who would dare to address Morgan in such a casual manner, and Josie was one of them.


    Josie, trying to bring Laura back to the present, asked, ¡°What are you thinking about? Your phone is


    ringing.¡±


    As she snapped back to reality, Laura retrieved her phone from her bag and answered, ¡°Hello?¡±


    When she heard the voice on the other end of the call, her expression shifted to one of shock. She


    promptly stood up and dered, ¡°I need to go back immediately.¡±


    Josie also got to her feet and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Laura¡¯s lips turned pale as she shared the shocking news, ¡°Summer tried to harm herself by shing


    her wrists. I need to go back immediately.¡±


    Josie¡¯s surprise was evident as she grabbed Laura¡¯s hand and offered, ¡°Let me apany you. The


    Olsen family needs someone stable right now, and you need all the support you can get. I¡¯m here to


    help with whatever needs to be done.¡±


    After a brief moment of hesitation, Laura nodded in agreement.


    They rushed to the Olsen Residence, where they discovered Summer on the family estate. By the time


    she was found, there was a pool of blood around her, and she was barely clinging to life.


    The news had a profound impact on Mark, who was almost overwhelmed by shock, and everyone was


    hastily making their way back to the residence.


    Josie followed Laura to the scene, where several cars were parked at the entrance, including one


    belonging to Dexter.


    Inside the house, some of the most renowned doctors in Wavery had gathered. They were busy


    examining various data and appeared deeply concerned. udia sat beside Summer, who remained


    unconscious. On the other side of the room, Dexter was holding Heather, whisperingforting words


    to her.


    Zach, leaning against the door, immediately turned his gaze toward Laura upon her arrival. When he


    noticed Josie standing behind her, his expression soured, and he questioned, ¡°Why did you bring her


    here?¡±


    This voice caught Dexter¡¯s attention. He turned his head, and his gazended directly on Josie.


    Undaunted, Laura exined, ¡°Josie gave me a lift because it was on her way.¡± She stepped forward


    and inquired, ¡°How is she doing?¡±


    The doctor let out a sigh after briefly reviewing the data. ¡°Based on what we can see now, her suicidal


    thoughts appear to be a result of emotional instability. Her family needs to be prepared to help her


    manage her emotions.¡±


    A heavy silence descended upon the room for what felt like an eternity.


    Laura disyed a hint of awkwardness on her face as she replied, ¡°We¡¯ll make sure to be mindful of


    that.¡±


    The doctor added, ¡°Additionally, it seems Ms. Olsen is now suffering from ustrophobia. She must


    never be ced in confined or enclosed spaces again.¡±


    Finally, udia spoke up, her mood weighed down by the situation. ¡°Sum never had this issue before.


    How could this happen?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait until Ms. Olsen wakes up to ask her.¡±


    With that, the doctor left the room, leaving only a few people inside. Dexter gently patted Heather on


    the shoulder and rea*sured her, ¡°She¡¯s been saved, so there shouldn¡¯t be any major issues now. The


    main thing is to talk to Mr. Olsen about canceling Summer¡¯s punishment.¡±


    As Dexter spoke, his gaze briefly flickered toward Josie before quickly looking away.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    udia absorbed the information, her mood evidently heavy. ¡°I¡¯ll go talk to him. You all stay here,¡± she


    dered.


    In a room filled with concerned individuals, Josie remained the only outsider. She leaned against the


    door, studying Summer¡¯s face.


    The deep scar on her wrist seemed to indicate genuine harm, but the idea of someone as profit-driven


    as Summer willingly attempting to end her own life remained baffling. It simply doesn¡¯t make sense.

 Chapter 830 He Did It

    Chapter 830 He Did It


    Suddenly, a figure blocked Josie¡¯s prying gaze. It was Zach. ¡°Ms. Warren, you¡¯ve dropped Laura off.


    You can leave now,¡± he said coldly, his voice filled with disdain for her.


    Josie remained unfazed. ¡°Laura hasn¡¯t asked me to leave yet. Why are you being so presumptuous?¡±


    Her underlying message carried a hint of mockery. Laura held considerable influence now, and Zach no


    longer dared to mistreat her as he once did. In fact, he seemed somewhat apprehensive of her.


    ¡°You!¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Zach.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice interrupted the tension. He lightly tapped Heather and said, ¡°You siblings should


    have a chat.¡±


    After saying that, he stepped forward, his intention quite clear.


    Zach was indeed wary of him. After struggling for a while, he still took a step back, turning around with


    a face full of disgust.


    Heather frowned with worry. ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    Nevertheless, the man remained calm andposed. He gestured for her to remain quiet and closed


    the door behind him, shutting out the prying eyes from the room. In the hallway, only Dexter and Josie


    remained.


    Dexter¡¯s calm gaze felt more intense than the effects of alcohol and smoke in the air.


    Josie craned her head to meet his eyes. ¡°You did this, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Dexter stayed silent, but he took her wrist and led her upstairs. It was only when they reached the


    rooftop that he released her wrist and spoke. ¡°Summer¡¯s actions were her own doing; I couldn¡¯t control


    her.¡±


    In the past few minutes, Josie had pieced together the situation. She rotated her bruised wrist and


    remarked, ¡°You were aware that Summer was involved in the photo incident. After returning to Wavery,


    a series of scandals involving her surfaced, enraging Mark and leading to this situation. How is this not


    revenge?¡±


    Her words were filled with seriousness, and the sunlight cast an amber hue in her eyes.


    Dexter listened attentively before breaking intoughter. ¡°What¡¯s the point of seeking revenge? We¡¯re


    already divorced.¡±


    The word ¡°divorce¡± stiffened Josie. Indeed, they were divorced.


    She shifted slightly and said, ¡°Who said it had to be for my sake? Summer has severely harmed the


    Russell Group, and by extension, your reputation has suffered. Seeking revenge for yourself would be


    entirely reasonable.¡±


    Dexter tilted her chin up, his other hand lightly resting on her shoulder as he leaned in. ¡°Even if that


    were true, I wouldn¡¯t have expected Summer to stoop this low.¡±


    Indeed, that part didn¡¯t make sense, but in a sh, Josie remembered the doctor mentioning Summer¡¯s


    ustrophobia. She furrowed her brows. ¡°Did you do something to her?¡±


    As Josie watched, Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a smile, a smile that was almost chilling.


    ¡°You¡¯ve be smarter, Jo.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Josie was incredulous, and her pupils were slightly dted.


    It¡¯s Summer we¡¯re talking about. The means to make her ustrophobic must be beyond imagination.


    And this man in front of me, he always has countless ways to torment people.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t share her photos; that¡¯s already me being as merciful as I can be.¡± Dexter¡¯s expression


    gradually turned cold, resembling a venomous snake in the summer heat.


    Josie shivered despite the sun being at its zenith. ¡°Is this what you consider a ¡®gift¡±?¡±


    Dexter seemed puzzled. ¡°Not satisfied? Well, there¡¯s another gift. That guy¡¯s currently under


    investigation. by the Securities Regtory Commission, but it appears he¡¯ll return soon.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows deeply. She certainly wanted to retaliate against Summer, especially after the


    damage to her reputation. However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated Dexter¡¯s approach to be so ruthless,


    striking. without spilling blood.


    ¡°An eye for an eye,¡± seemed to perfectly describe Dexter¡¯s actions, with no room for deviation.


    He let out a soft sigh, prompting Josie to look up at him. ¡°I went to great lengths to prepare a gift for


    you, and yet you won¡¯t behave.¡±

 Chapter 831 On The Rooftop

    Chapter 831 On The Rooftop


    Josie¡¯s graceful neck bore a resemnce to that of a noble swan, yet her expression remained


    stubborn and defiant.


    Dexter was discussing the news with Morgan,


    Suddenly, she curved her lips into a smile. ¡°Consider it a gift from me to you. Are you satisfied?¡±


    As soon as these words left her mouth, the man in front of her boiled with rage. He leaned in closer, his


    thin lips so heated that Josie instinctively recoiled upon contact. ¡°If you have the audacity to act, you


    must also be prepared for the consequences.¡±


    Startled, Josie took a step back. ¡°This is the Olsen Residence!¡±


    ¡°So what?¡± Dexterughed. It was summer, and Josie wore a skirt. When hisrge handnded on her


    fair, long legs, she almost stumbled, instinctively reaching out to him for support.


    ¡°Dexter! I¡¯ll call the police!¡± Josie gritted her teeth, struggling to hide her own trembling.


    She was turned around, a potted nt of considerable height concealing their unrestrained encounter.


    Dexter held her firmly, his warm breath brushing against her. ¡°If I were to marry Heather, would you


    consider getting married too?¡±


    Josie fought to control her trembling and her waning patience. ¡°I¡¯ll send her the video of us in bed!¡±


    Dexter rested his head against her shoulder, letting out a soft chuckle. ¡°I didn¡¯t even know you had


    made videos. You¡¯re quite the entertainer, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face turned a bright crimson, and her whole body tensed with the fear of being caught. Both the


    agony and ecstasy were amplified twofold.


    ¡°Do you think Morgan would still want you if he knew?¡± the man inquired calmly, his voice stifled by a


    grunt.


    Josie sank her teeth into Dexter¡¯s shoulder, causing blood to immediately seep through the pristine


    white shirt. ¡°You¡¯re repulsive!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s grip on her throat tightened, his demeanor growing even more menacing. ¡°Do you genuinely


    intend to marry him?¡±


    ¡°What difference does it make if I were to marry? We¡¯re already divorced!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, he escted his forcefulness. ¡°If you dare to marry, I wouldn¡¯t mind adding


    another child to the Bastille family,¡± he dered boldly.


    Josie¡¯s eyes narrowed, and she exerted all her strength to push him away. However, the more she


    pushed. the firmer his resistance became.


    Hisrge hand remained firmly on her waist, its grip tightening. Dexter spoke in a hushed tone. ¡°Let it


    out.¡±


    Josie clenched her teeth, adamantly refusing to utter a sound.


    He forcefully inserted his fingers into her mouth,pelling her to open it. ¡°I¡¯ve trained you; I


    understand your reactions better than you do. Scream¡±


    It had been quite some time since they had engaged in such an encounter. Suddenly, in this precarious


    situation, she could sense Dexter¡¯s overwhelming desire, as though he wanted to consume her entirely.


    Her voice quivered. ¡°You will regret this.¡±


    When he heard this, Dexter¡¯s fingertips gently brushed her cheek, ¡°If such a day ever arrives, I will


    kneel before you.¡±


    That implied it was never going to happen.


    Just then, a familiar voice emanated from outside, ¡°Where¡¯s Mr. Russell?¡±


    It belonged to a man. Arnold had returned.


    Josie¡¯s body grew even more tense.


    The voice of a housekeeper followed, ¡°Mr. Carter, I just saw Mr. Russell heading to the rooftop.¡±


    ¡°The rooftop?¡± Arnold inquired with confusion.


    ¡°He was apanied by Ms. Brandel¡¯s friend.¡±


    The moment these words were uttered, an eerie silence descended upon the atmosphere. Arnold said


    something, and the housekeeper departed. Then, the sound of footsteps ascending the stairs ensued.


    Josie couldn¡¯t fathom the absurdity of such a rendezvous. She clutched Dexter¡¯s arm tightly, where


    anger had visibly swollen his veins, and implored, ¡°Release me!¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    He insisted more forcefully, ¡°Let him see.¡±


    Tears streamed uncontrobly down Josie¡¯s face, ¡°Let go!¡±


    Without another word, the man gripped her chin and enveloped her lips in a passionate kiss. As their


    breaths became intertwined, only the muffled sounds of their encounter echoed throughout the rooftop.


    At that moment, Dexter emanated a strong, aggressive aura, resembling an enraged beast.

 Chapter 832 Do Not Take The Medication

    Chapter 832 Do Not Take The Medication


    Josie emitted two soft, subdued whimpers.


    Arnold had already reached the rooftop¡¯s exterior. He attempted to push open the door, but to his


    surprise, there was no response.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Josie, are you in there?¡±


    Josie cast a fierce re at the man who was intimately close to her, wishing to speak, but his kiss grew


    more fervent. ¡°Let him hear how you flourish in my embrace.¡±


    She felt on the brink of suffocation.


    Arnold received no response, so he unlocked the rooftop door and called out, ¡°Josie?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice resembled a haunting nightmare. ¡°Do you believe that if he witnessed the woman he


    never had, brought to the edge of ecstasy by me, he would kill me?¡±


    He appeared to envision Arnold¡¯s reaction and couldn¡¯t suppress a chuckle.


    This fleeting trace ofughter ultimately dissuaded Arnold from forcing the door open. He remained


    there for an extended period, enshrouded in shadows.


    The housekeeper returned and inquired, ¡°Mr. Carter, is Mr. Russell inside?¡±


    After a moment, Arnold turned around and replied, ¡°He¡¯s not here, probably in the study.¡±


    The sound of leather shoes descending the stairs gradually receded into the distance.


    Josie felt like a fish out of water, utterly drained, as if she had just survived a catastrophe.


    Dexter had already released his grip on her, straightened the wrinkles in his ck trousers, and


    resumed his usual cool andposed demeanor.


    Josie, on the other hand, appeared disheveled, steadying herself by leaning against the wall.


    ¡°Remember, if you want to avoid more significant trouble, don¡¯t take the medicine,¡± Dexter advised,


    brushing his shoulder. His fingers bore immediate evidence of the bloodstains.


    Josie retrieved the belt of her skirt, designed like a leather strap, and swung it fiercely, striking Dexter.


    ¡°We¡¯re already divorced; why are you still treating me this way!¡±


    Dexter remained motionless, unaffected by the belt¡¯s metallic buckle striking his wrist bone with a


    painful clink. He didn¡¯t even furrow his brows as he calmly stated, ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, you are mine.¡±


    Tears glistened on Josie¡¯s face, her energypletely drained as she replied, ¡°I belong to myself.¡±


    The scorching sun overhead caused tiny beads of sweat to form on the man¡¯s forehead. He looked up


    and remarked, ¡°It¡¯s going to rain. We shouldn¡¯t leave today


    With that, Dexter pushed open the rooftop door.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie shouted, her voice filled with determination ¡°If you dare touch me again, I¡¯ll jump off of


    this building!


    He stood still, his face remaining expressionless as he replied, ¡°You can give it a try.¡±


    Josie immediately turned around and walked toward the rooftop¡¯s edge.


    Dexter finally showed emotion, adding a threatening tone, ¡°If you dare to jump, I¡¯ll have Paul taken care


    of.¡±


    Josie¡¯s actions came to an abrupt halt when she heard this. She asked anxiously, ¡°Do you have news


    from Pop?¡±


    The man didn¡¯t respond, simply descending the stairs. His silhouette disappeared into the shadows


    without pausing for a single step.


    Josie feltpletely defeated, copsing onto the scorching ground.


    When it came to ying a game of chess with Dexter, she was utterly outmatched.


    He was right, a storm was about to hit, and the stifling weather made it evident.


    Josie remained seated, letting the heavy rain wash over her as if it could cleanse away the traces on


    her body.


    The rooftop gate was left open. As the housekeeper approached and saw Josie sitting silently in the


    rain, she was startled. ¡°Ms. Warren, what are you¡­¡±


    An umbre appeared overhead, snapping Josie back to her senses. ¡°I¡­ I¡¯ve sprained my ankle; I


    can¡¯t stand up.¡±


    The housekeeper finally understood and quickly helped her up, saying, ¡°You¡¯re all wet; you should take


    a bath.¡±


    Josie was assisted downstairs. When Laura came out and saw her in this state, she was surprised,


    ¡°I¡¯ve been looking for you for so long, you¡­¡±


    The housekeeper exined the situation again, and then Josie asked, ¡°Are there any spare clothes?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you can go take a shower in my room.¡±

 Chapter 833 The Biggest Beneficiary

    Chapter 833 The Biggest Beneficiary


    Laura led Josie to her bedroom, which was clean and tidy, with very few personal belongings. It was


    evident that the room wasn¡¯t frequently upied.


    After Josie finished her bath, she emerged to find the torrential rain outside hadn¡¯t ceased, showing


    every sign of continuing unabated.


    The Olsen residence was vast, so expansive that a single day wouldn¡¯t suffice to explore it entirely.


    Josie had never taken aprehensive tour of the ce. She asked Laura, ¡°Has the Olsen family


    always lived here?¡±


    Laura, while using a hairdryer to dry Josie¡¯s hair, replied, ¡°Not entirely. The Olsen family has had its ups


    and downs. Back then, the various branches of the family were scattered, and Mark¡¯s branch wasn¡¯t


    even based in Wavery.


    Josie suddenly recalled that Dexter had mentioned Mark¡¯s remarkable recovery from a near-death


    experience, after which he had gradually expanded his business in Wavery.


    ¡°Mark acquired this ce. It¡¯s rumored to have been built over a century ago. After several renovations,


    it has be what it is today.¡±


    Josie must have been absent when Mark purchased the property, as she didn¡¯t remember it.


    No wonder I don¡¯t remember this ce.


    Josie contemted this information. Once her hair was dry, she thanked Laura and inquired, ¡°Has


    Summer not woken up yet?¡±


    Laura shook her head and exined, Mark is still resting in bed. He hasn¡¯te to terms with the fact


    that Summer wouldmit suicide.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.


    Thinking of Dexter¡¯s pride in his abilities and the fact that there was little he couldn¡¯t aplish, Josie


    felt no sympathy for Summer. She remarked, ¡°If, and I stress ¡®if, something happens to her, who will


    inherit her shares?¡±


    Laura looked somewhat apprehensive and fell into deep thought. ¡°It all depends on Mark¡¯s decision.


    Arnold is out of the question. There¡¯s a high possibility that Heather and Dexter might get married, and


    it could be her.¡±


    ¡°That would mean the Olsen family would bepletely under her control.¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡± A knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Laura answered the door, and it was a


    housekeeper reminding them, ¡°Dinner is ready. Mrs. Olsen has requested your presence¡­ along with


    Ms. Warren.¡±


    Laura acknowledged with a nod and then turned back to find Josie wearing a peculiar expression.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie inquired, ¡°How did you decide to be involved in the Olsen family¡¯s business and attain the


    position you hold today?¡±


    Caught off guard by the question, Laura hesitated for a moment before responding. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t fought


    for myself, would Zach be as he is now? He would have killed me long ago.¡±


    The hint of sorrow in her words revealed the gravity of her situation, causing Josie to lower her guard


    slightly. This reason seemed convincing enough.


    If something were to happen to Summer, the biggest beneficiary might not necessarily be Heather.


    Mark would not likely hand over his assets to an outsider, and Zach, being a member of the Olsen


    family, would be a more trustworthy choice. Laura could potentially be the biggest beneficiary in such a


    scenario.


    As soon as that thought surfaced in Josie¡¯s mind, however, it was disrupted by Laura¡¯s exnation.


    Moreover, even if Summer were to pass away, Dexter would likely have a n to secure the Olsen


    family¡¯s shares.


    Josie inwardly chided herself for overthinking, for the woman before her seemed genuinely gentle.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Josie said, ying along with the pretense of her sprained ankle, allowing Laura to assist


    her into the dining room.


    At the long dining table, udia upied the main seat. Seeing Josie¡¯s condition, she inquired about


    it, to which Laura exined, ¡°She twisted her ankle on the rooftop. I apologize for not taking better care


    of her.¡±


    udia furrowed her brows, and Dexter¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile. ¡°Ms. Olsen, what brought you to


    the rooftop?¡±


    Josie nearly ground her teeth but maintained herposure. ¡°I was admiring the scenery.¡±


    Dexterdled a bowl of soup for Heather and ced it in front of her, saying, ¡°The view at the Olsen


    Residence is indeed beautiful. Once the rain stops, we should go take a look.¡±


    Heather looked somewhat surprised. ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like the rain is going to stop anytime soon.¡±


    Laura and Josie exchanged nces, and Laura then spoke up. ¡°Mother, there¡¯s a thunderstorm


    outside. I¡¯m a bit concerned about Josie going home. Can she stay over for the night?¡±

 Chapter 834 Visiting

    Chapter 834 Visiting


    ¡°Of course,¡± udia readily agreed.


    However, Zach couldn¡¯t resist adding a sarcasticment, ¡°I¡¯ve been suspecting that something


    unsavory has infiltrated the Olsen family recently. Summer is still unconscious, and it¡¯s not wise to have


    such an ominous presence lingering in the Olsen Residence, is it?¡±


    These words carried a disrespectful tone, and Josie¡¯s calm facade cracked as she felt a surge of


    disgust. Before she could respond, Dexter fired back, ¡°Are you suggesting, Mr. Zach, that despite Mrs.


    Olsen¡¯s years of devout prayers and vegetarianism, she still can¡¯t keep negative influences at bay?¡±


    As he spoke, he absentmindedly yed with his rosary beads.


    Zach, growing impatient with the conversation, turned his attention to his meal.


    udia chose not to pursue the matter further and instead gave Josie aforting look.


    On the other hand, Josie discreetly nced at Arnold, who remained silent and wore an uneasy


    expression.


    udia signaled the servant to pour wine for everyone. After the wine was served, she inquired,


    ¡°Arnold, how is the investigation by the Securities Regtory Commission progressing?¡±


    Arnold slowly chewed a piece of bread before responding. ¡°If someone is attempting to frame me but


    can¡¯t produce any evidence, the Securities Regtory Commission will likely clear my name. I¡¯m


    already in the clear.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    udia nodded. ¡°Summer is facing difficulties, and you mustn¡¯t let your father-inw worry any


    further.¡±,


    ¡°After dinner, I¡¯ll go and ept the consequences.¡±


    ¡°Arnold, you appear quite worn out,¡± remarked Dexter, his gaze fixed on him. ¡°The recent Securities


    Regtory Commission investigation must have been exhausting. Managing everything during this


    time¡± must have taken a toll.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s emotions remained inscrutable as he replied. ¡°In my position, who hasn¡¯t faced scrutiny a few


    times? Dexter, if the dayes when the Russell Group faces a simr situation, feel free to seek my


    advice.¡±


    Dexter continued to manipte his prayer beads, his smile concealing a sharp edge. ¡°We won¡¯t.¡±


    Josie sat at the dining table, observing the duel of words between the masters, unable to swallow her


    food.


    After dinner, a housekeeper arrived with the news that Summer had awakened. Consequently,


    everyone went to visit her.


    She was conscious, but her demeanor was somber as if she had lost half of her spirit. Her gaze was


    listless. and disinterested as she nced at everyone, but it sharpened when itnded on Josie. She


    furrowed her brows and asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Josie responded calmly, ¡°I¡¯vee to see you. If we consider our ages, you¡¯re a year younger than


    me, so I treat you like my younger sister. Am I not wee to visit you?¡± She stated this with a warm


    smile, but she noticed that Summer¡¯s expression grew increasingly panicked.


    Summer clutched Arnold¡¯s hand tightly, as if trying to suppress something, and said, ¡°I¡¯m not your


    sister¡±


    ¡°It seems I may have overstepped.¡± Josie shed her a smile.


    ¡°Sum¡­¡± Mark was being assisted by someone as he entered the room, but his voice fell silent upon


    seeing. Josie.


    She nodded respectfully to him, and as he passed by her gracefully, a gust of wind seemed to follow


    him. Josie maintained herposure.


    Mark¡¯s voice echoed, ¡°Why are you acting so recklessly? How could you do this to your family, and


    more importantly, to yourself?¡±


    Summer, shielded by her husband, refused to lift her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to live anymore.¡±


    Mark raised his cane in anger but was restrained by Arnold. ¡°Father, Summer just woke up. Don¡¯t argue


    with her. The doctor mentioned she might have ustrophobia. Perhaps we shouldn¡¯t have kept her


    confined in the family estate.¡±


    Arnold patted Mark¡¯s back affectionately as he spoke.


    ¡°ustrophobia?¡± Mark initially didn¡¯tprehend. ¡°Why didn¡¯t she have this issue before?¡±


    Summer briefly lifted her gaze, meeting a fiery stare that seemed to scorch her. She quickly averted her


    eyes.


    Dexter stood behind her, graceful in the bright light, and his gaze bore a silent warning.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Summer. You shouldn¡¯t have been confined to the family estate.¡± Mark sighed.

 Chapter 835 The Grievances Of Summer

    Chapter 835 The Grievances Of Summer


    Clearly, Summer was unwilling to ept.


    She kept her head bowed. Mark said in a low and authoritative voice, ¡°What do you n to do? Is it


    appropriate for a married woman to mingle with other men outside?¡±


    He earnestly advised his daughter, whom he had raised with tender care, ¡°No matter what, apologize to


    Arnold. That will put this matter to rest.¡±


    Summer let out a deep sigh and suddenly pulled out the IV from her wrist. ¡°Why should I apologize? He


    doesn¡¯t care about me. Why are you so concerned?¡±


    The sudden surge of hostility caught everyone present by surprise. Mark stood up abruptly. ¡°Why are


    you speaking to me in this manner? Can¡¯t I have a say in this?¡±


    Arnold immediately pulled out a tissue to press against the blood that was gushing from her. ¡°Sum!¡±


    ¡°Have you ever cared about me? Since I was young, all your attention has been on Liana. When have


    you ever cared about me? I¡¯ve been abroad for years. Do you know how I¡¯ve managed? Have you ever


    cared?¡± Summer¡¯s emotions ran high, and her pale face grew even paler.


    Mark leaned on his cane, took a few paces back, and watched the scene unfold before him in disbelief.


    ¡°Do you have any idea how I used to clutch my dolls and wait for both of you toe home when I was


    a child? But all you ever talk about in front of me is the missing Liana!¡± Summer burst out in frustration.


    ? ? ? ? ? ?


    Leaning against the wall, Josie listened to the intensemotion inside and felt a bit agitated all of a


    sudden. She wanted to smoke a cigarette, but there were none in her pocket.


    ¡°Now that she¡¯s back, you can¡¯t wait to hand over the entire Olsen family to her. What about me? I have


    worked so hard for the past two years. Does it mean nothing to you? Am I not your daughter too?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    ¡°That¡¯s outrageous!¡± udia rebuked angrily, ¡°Haven¡¯t we treated you well enough? We¡¯ve provided


    you with resources and connections. All of you are my daughters. How could there be any difference!¡±


    udia seldom got angry. Heather patted her back. ¡°Mother, Sum is just upset right now. Don¡¯t take it


    to heart. Let her vent her anger, and she¡¯ll be fine!¡±


    ¡°Shut up. It¡¯s not your ce to speak,¡± Summer suddenly said softly as she looked at Heather.


    Thetter pursed her lips and lowered her head.


    It was precisely those words thatpletely infuriated Mark. With a swift raise of his hand, he delivered


    a p!


    The entire room fell silent.


    Arnold stood protectively in front of Summer. ¡°Father-¡±


    Mark covered his chest with a look of disappointment as if he was upset with someone¡¯s inability to


    meet his expectations. ¡°Tell me,¡± he said, ¡°I gave you the authority, didn¡¯t I? But what did you do? You


    lost one project after another. Zach and Laura are doing much better than you. Who can you me for


    this? Before Liana returned, we were just as amodating to you. How can you now vent your


    frustrations on her? She has been wandering outside for so many years. She is thest person who


    should be med!¡±


    After listening, Summer swept her gaze over everyone. ¡°So it¡¯s all my fault, is it? Then why did you


    save me? You should have just let me die!¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Arnold pressed Summer down and took the lead to calm her down before saying, ¡°Sum is


    emotionally unstable. Let her calm down on her own. Please understand, Father and Mother.¡±


    Mark red at Summer for a long while. Finally, he pulled Heather with him and left the room.


    Summer watched as the group of people walked away. When her gaze met that burning stare, she


    withdrew as if shocked by electricity.,


    After a moment, Arnold also stepped out and closed the door behind him.


    ¡°Sum won¡¯t calm down anytime soon. Arnold has had a tough timetely,¡± remarked Dexter as he


    leanedzily to one side.


    ¡°Spouses should alwayspromise with each other. If everyone is as casual as Dexter, they might as


    well not get married,¡± Arnold said with a soft chuckle.


    Everyone knew what he meant.

 Chapter 836 Follow Dexter Blindly

    Chapter 836 Follow Dexter Blindly


    Mark took a deep breath and gently patted Arnold¡¯s hand. ¡°All these years, you have been caring for


    Summer. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? She was my sister before, and now she¡¯s my wife. Naturally, I will take


    care of her.¡±


    ¡°All right then. I¡¯ll handle the repercussions brought on by the Securities Regtory Commission for


    you.¡± Mark decided after a moment of contemtion.


    Dexter raised his eyebrows slightly, and a hint of coldness shed in his eyes.


    Josie understood as well. With one of their daughters married to Arnold, the Olsen family essentially


    secured a peaceful life for the rest of their lives.


    Mark truly loved Summer. Josie could feel it. It was what a father could do for his daughter.


    Mark exuded an aura of calm and dignity, a testament to his years of struggle and perseverance. It was


    as if no matter what happened, he was there to protect his daughter.


    Josie gazed at Mark and was lost-in-thought.


    If my guess is correct, how should I face all of this?


    After giving his earnest advice, Mark turned to Laura and added, ¡°Zach is quite worrisome too. Keep a


    close eye on him.¡±


    Laura nodded to show she understood.


    At that moment, the housekeeper brought over a bowl of soup. ¡°The medicine is ready.¡±


    udia took it and went back into the room.


    Before Mark left, he wanted to say something to Heather, but his gaze fell on Josie instead. ¡°Howe


    you¡¯re here?¡±


    Atst, Josie received his attention. Her eyes were filled withplex emotions. ¡°I came to the Olsen


    family to take shelter. Don¡¯t you wee me, Mr. Olsen?¡±


    Mark¡¯s brows furrowed. His initial fondness for Josie hadpletely vanished when Heather returned.


    He nodded at Dexter. ¡°You handle it.¡±


    Having said that, he left with the assistance of his housekeeper, and his figure gradually receded into


    the distance.


    Heather¡¯s face showed anxiety as she looked worriedly at the man beside him.


    Dexter gently patted the back of her hand in aforting manner. ¡°Go take a bath and have a good


    sleep.¡± ¡°Dex, I don¡¯t want to.¡± She gripped Dexter¡¯s wrist tightly. There was a strong sense of urgency in


    her grasp.


    Heughed. ¡°I¡¯m not doing anything wrong. What is there to fear?¡±


    The affection in those words caused Laura to look at Josie with concern.


    Thetter, however, did not mind at all. She wished she could peel off the skin from Dexter¡¯s face.


    Pretending that her foot hurt, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave as soon as the rain stops.¡±


    Once back in the room, Laura, seeing that Josie was all right, finally breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°I was


    scared to death just now. I really thought Summer was going to lose her temper.¡±


    ¡°She was just throwing a tantrum. She still needs to rely on the Olsen family for support.¡± Josie saw


    through it. After a pause, she continued, ¡°Mark seems to spoil her a lot. After all, she¡¯s his daughter.


    But speaking of it, Zach reallycks a sense of presence. I used to think that in such a family, boys


    would be valued more than girls.¡±


    It was not in line with the practice of the country. Josie furrowed her brows as if she had thought of


    something, but in the end, she did not voice it out.


    The torrential rain showed no signs of stopping outside. Laura went into the bathroom to take a shower


    while Josie, who was feeling stifled in the room, decided to go out for a walk.


    The Olsen Residence was vast. As she walked through the brightly lit corridor, raindrops fell on her arm


    and brought a refreshing coolness.


    She walked to the end, where she saw a sh of crimson in the darkness, and the scent of smoke


    permeated the air. A man¡¯s figure stood still, his silhouette lonely and deste.


    Josie wanted to leave.


    ¡°Up ahead is Mark¡¯s study. Where are you going?¡±


    The man¡¯s voice had a certain heaviness to it as a result of years of smoking. He stepped closer, and


    the sound of his leather shoes echoed with each step. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me,¡± he said, ¡°that you just happened


    to be passing by.¡±


    Josie looked up and saw Arnold¡¯s face.


    He exhaled a puff of smoke, which hit her in the face, forcing her to squint her eyes.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you asleep yet?¡±


    ¡°Just came out of Mark¡¯s study to have a cigarette.¡±


    ¡°What did he say to you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quite curious, aren¡¯t you?¡± Arnold¡¯s smile was icy. ¡°You¡¯re too bold. This is the Olsen family. Do


    you know what happens when you blindly follow Dexter?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    He was referring to the madness that urred during the day.

 Chapter 837 Not Let Down

    Chapter 837 Not Let Down


    The torrential rain relentlessly fell that dark night.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to recall the humiliation of the afternoon, so she avoided him. ¡°Thank you for not


    pushing the door open and entering at that time.¡±


    Regardless, given the circumstances at that time, it did provide her with a sense of dignity.


    The smile in Arnold¡¯s eyes grew colder and colder. He brushed away the hair sticking to her cheek. ¡°I


    regret it.¡±


    Under the glow of the wallmp, Josie looked at him, puzzled. ¡°Regret what?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I regret not taking you on the day you were drugged.¡± Arnold¡¯s tone was calm, but his words were


    significant, causing her brows to furrow tightly.


    ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not insane.¡± Arnold toyed with a strand of her hair, unable to let go. ¡°Even if it means letting those


    despicable people seed, I still want you, Josie. I regret it every single day.


    While he was on the rooftop today, his regret reached its peak.


    Josie pushed him away, lowering her voice. ¡°Did Mark invite you for coffee or alcohol? Stop acting


    crazy with me!¡±


    Arnold smoothly stepped back, leaning against the wall. His demeanor reverted to that of his carefree


    days, exuding an air of nonchnce. However, the desire for possession in his eyes was tantly


    obvious. ¡°I¡¯ll get a divorce. You¡¯lle with me, Josie. I can do it.


    His gaze was exceptionally resolute yet extraordinarily indifferent, filled with rationality.


    Josie began to realize that his intense emotions were not solely to spite Dexter.


    ¡°Your wife is in the next room, falling apart, and here you are contemting divorce, Arnold. As a


    husband, this is quite inappropriate.¡±


    A strong sense of immorality surged within her.


    Arnold remained silent, simply staring at her, wishing he could possess her.


    ¡°If you divorce, the Olsen family will no longer be your support. The Carter Group ean¡¯t always have


    smooth sailing. Are you nning to continue relying on Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    Josie almost burst intoughter. She turned around. ¡°Even if I leave, I won¡¯t go with you. We¡¯re all


    adults here, so don¡¯t get carried away.¡±


    A shadow fell over her as he gently held her, resting against her shoulder. He let out a soft sigh, his


    body carrying the scent of smoke. ¡°Dexter intends to expand Russell Group¡¯s influence. He has to rely


    on the Olsen family. Therefore, his rtionship with Liana is inseparable. You won¡¯t get another


    chance.¡±


    Upon hearing that, a pang of sorrow suddenly struck Josie¡¯s heart.


    ¡°You can¡¯t manage what I¡¯m nning to do.¡±


    ¡°Those who strive will not be let down. Give it some thought.¡±


    At the end of the corridor, someone pushed open a door, casting a beam of light. Silhouetted against


    the light, someone stood. Arnold and Josie seemed like two intertwined vines leaning on each other.


    The rain had been falling all night, showing no signs of stopping.


    The next morning, everyone was seated in the grand hall of the Olsen residence, with udia brewing


    coffee for everyone.


    Heather sat to one side, learning flower arrangements from the housekeeper. From time to time, she


    would ask Dexter for his opinion. He would asionally offer a few suggestions or help her adjust the


    cement, their demeanor close and intimate.


    Laura sat at the desk, dealing with work.


    Arnold had just stepped out of Summer¡¯s room when he reported a few things to Mark. Suddenly, his


    phone rang.


    Whatever was said on the other end prompted him to shift his gaze onto Dexter, who was instructing


    Heather in flower arrangement. ¡°I¡¯ll be right there,¡± he said.


    ¡°Where are you going? It¡¯s not suitable to go out in such heavy rain,¡± udia asked.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold respectfully replied, ¡°There seems to be a problem with my father. I need to go and check on


    him.¡±


    Speaking of which, udia didn¡¯t ask any more questions. She walked him to the door. ¡°Take care on


    your way.¡±


    Mark withdrew his gaze after Arnold left. ¡°This kid is still not indifferent enough.¡±

 Chapter 838 Visiting The Olsen Family

    Chapter 838 Visiting The Olsen Family


    ¡°We¡¯re talking about his biological father. We can¡¯t expect too much from him.¡± Dexter picked up a pair


    of scissors, cut off the root of the rose, and continued the conversation with a smile.


    With a gentle squint, Mark expressed his disagreement, ¡°When do you n to let his father out?¡±


    Even he knew Dexter was in control of such matters.


    The young man cast a nce at Josie, who was sitting in the corner. Then, he ced the rose in the


    vase, its petals swaying gently.


    ¡°Perhaps when he stops harming others.¡± Dexter chuckled. ¡°Still, Mr. Olsen, it¡¯s in his nature to harm


    others, so he needs to be restrained.¡±


    Mark took a sip of tea, his brow smoothing out. ¡°Don¡¯t corner a desperate enemy. If he is forced to fight


    like a trapped beast, you won¡¯t gain any advantage.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯tment on whether it was good or bad. He simply said he understood.


    The housekeeper stepped forward to refill the coffee at the right moment. ¡°A message just came from


    the Simmons family, saying that thedy of the house has passed away.


    Mark expressed surprise, ¡°You mean the Mrs. Simmons who rose to power through her lover?¡±


    udia said, ¡°Why are you looking at me? I haven¡¯t been involved in worldly affairs for many years. I¡¯m


    not clear about these things.¡±


    The housekeeper chimed in, ¡°Yes, there was quite a fuss about it a couple of years ago. Everyone said


    she was very resourceful.¡±


    ¡°How did she die?¡±


    ¡°It was said to be a sudden death.¡±


    With a cold huff, Mark seemed as if he had heard a joke. ¡°The Simmons family is a prestigious one, not


    a ce where any Tom, Dick, or Harry can rise to power. She seduced so many men with her dirty


    deeds in the past, and now she¡¯s getting her just deserts!¡±


    What he said seemed to make sense, but Josie, sitting on the side, understood the hidden meaning.


    She fathomed Mark was criticizing her indirectly.


    Heather curiously asked, ¡°Father, what¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°All you need to know is that a woman who interferes in someone else¡¯s marriage never meets a good


    end.¡± As Mark finished speaking, his meaningful gazended on Josie.


    She was dressed lightly, so she felt somewhat cold in the rainy weather. Her fingers were exceptionally


    pale


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Last night, Mark saw her interacting with Arnold. So, it was only natural for him to say those things that


    day.


    However, Josie felt the words were more suitable to be directed at Heather.


    She wasn¡¯t angry either. The corners of her mouth slightly lifted in response to Mark¡¯s gaze, tant and


    straightforward.


    Confronted with her bare gaze, Mark furrowed his brows. A kind of indescribable emotion slowly rose


    within him.


    Josie looked around, then suddenly said, ¡°Mr. Olsen, I¡¯ve always been curious about the structure of


    the Olsen residence while working as a designer. I wonder if I could have the opportunity to take a look


    around today.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she thoughtfully added, ¡°Laura can apany me.¡±


    At this point in the conversation, it seemed the host had no room for refusal. With a respectful yet


    sarcastic tone, he remarked, ¡°I was under the impression that you had already thoroughly explored the


    Olsen residence, Ms. Warren.¡±


    Josie understood what he implied and responded with a smile.


    Before Laura could get up, udia stopped her, ¡°Let me do it, Laura. You¡¯re busy.¡±


    As soon as those words were spoken, Heather couldn¡¯t sit still. She stood up. ¡°Mother, our house is


    large, and your legs aren¡¯t in the best condition. Let me show Ms. Warren around.¡±


    Her words were reasonable, but Mark gave her a sidelong nce. ¡°You are the youngdy of the Olsen


    family. Your only duties are to enjoy coffee, arrange flowers, and apany Dex. Not just anyone has


    the right to order you around.¡±


    He was belittling Josie between the lines.


    On the surface, she was calm and unruffled, but inside, difort churned within Josie. Such criticism


    and belittlement were nothingpared to what she had experienced in her twenty-some years of life.


    However, as the words came from her father, Mark, she couldn¡¯t help but take it to heart.


    Josie caught Dexter¡¯s cryptic gaze. Looking at her, he spoke lightly. ¡°The rain has lessened. Let¡¯s leave


    before it stopspletely.¡±

 Chapter 839 Dog

    Chapter 839 Dog


    The atmosphere chilled for several long seconds.


    udia broke the silence. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    The design of the Olsen residence¡¯s structure was indeed ingenious, grand, and exquisite.


    ¡°When it was time for the renovation, I put forward quite a few suggestions.¡±


    As Josie was touring around, she eximed in surprise, ¡°You can design too?¡±


    No wonder she took the initiative to take her for a tour.


    udia nodded. ¡°When I was young, I dabbled in everything but mastered none. This was something I


    particrly enjoyed.¡±


    Josie was secretly startled by those coincidences.


    There was a coffee garden in the backyard, where coffee trees nketed the hills, hidden in the misty


    rain, presenting a magnificent sight. Around the right time of the year, there would be dedicated coffee


    bean pickers to harvest and process the beans to be the exclusive coffee served to guests at the


    Olsen residence.


    That kind of spending was not extravagant, but it was thoughtful and meticulous, exuding a rare


    warmth.


    ¡°When we were young, there was a coffee garden in the backyard of our old house. We earned our first


    pot of gold from those coffee beans. As we grew more sessful, he became reluctant to engage in


    these low- profit activities. But out of nostalgia, he decided to move the coffee garden here.¡±


    In the corridor, udia and Josie stood together, gazing into the distance.


    Her voice carried a gentle warmth and a hint of fatigue as if she was telling a long, drawn-out story.


    ¡°You¡­ and Mr. Olsen, your rtionship seems very deep. Has it always been this way over the years?¡±


    Josie asked curiously.


    At this point, udia¡¯s smile softened, and she sighed. ¡°People change, and in the end, love turns into


    deep familial affection.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t want that. Love is love, from beginning to end. If it¡¯s going to turn into.


    familial affection, I¡¯d rather not have it.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too naive.¡±


    udia led her into an exhibition hall. The ce was airy and transparent, housing many valuable


    items. However, Josie¡¯s gaze fell on an old, yellowing painting.


    The drawing depicted a cartoon character. The strokes were quite naive. It was clear that a child had


    drawn it. Josie recognized it. ¡°Is this¡­ Dexter?¡±


    udia sighed. ¡°This was drawn by Leanne before she got lost. She did a great job, didn¡¯t she? She¡¯s


    so talented. What a pity¡±


    ¡°May I take a look at it?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    udia handed her a pair of gloves.


    Josie understood her own painting style very well. Due to the involvement of architecture, it inevitably


    became a bit rigid. However, the painting was drawn with exceptionally soft strokes. Despite that, she


    could still see a hint of simrity.


    Her head was aching a bit.


    It was as if she had traveled through time, witnessing the young girl from the past, engrossed in her


    drawing.


    Just then, a noise came from outside. At the end of the corridor, a Shiba Inu dashed in. Its eyes were


    sunken, showing signs of age. It leaped into udia¡¯s arms and then stared intently at Josie.


    She jumped in surprise. ¡°This is¡­¡±


    Someone quickly rushed in from outside. ¡°Mrs. Olsen, I apologize! Pepper probably caught your scent.


    I couldn¡¯t control it.¡±


    udia squatted down and petted the dog. ¡°That¡¯s all right. How has Pepper been eating these past


    few days?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. It just looks a little lethargic.¡±


    udia nodded, then turned to Josie. ¡°When we were young, I was always away on business trips. I


    was worried that Leanne would feel lonely, so I bought her a dog. She loves spicy food, so we named it


    Pepper. Butter on, Leanne got lost. Mark is allergic to dog hair, so this dog has been living in the


    backyard for over a decade.¡±


    Josie listened, her gaze lowered to the dog.


    Its eyes were sparkling like water, unable to move its gaze away from her.


    Josie¡¯s heart was racing. It was as if fate had reunited her with the dog.

 Chapter 840 Exposed

    Chapter 840 Exposed


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t bite.¡±


    Josie slowly crouched down, patting the head of the dog named Pepper, who surprisingly didn¡¯t shy


    away. ¡°For a dog, a decade or so is already a long life,¡± she said.


    ¡°Yes, indeed.¡±


    Pepper patiently waited from its youth until its old age, all for the return of its owner.


    It responded to Josie¡¯s touch, rubbing against her palm with force, making a soft purring sound. Soon,


    the sound grew louder, eventually turning into a full-blown bark, startling even udia.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie remained still, letting it move. She wanted to hold it with both hands.


    Just then, Heather¡¯s voice came from outside. ¡°Where is Mother?¡±


    The housekeeper replied, ¡°She¡¯s inside.¡±


    As Heather pushed the door open and stepped in, she was immediately greeted by the near-mad


    barking of a dog. Startled, she instinctively hid behind the housekeeper, eximing, ¡°What? What is


    that? Where did this doge from?¡±


    The housekeeper quickly shielded her. ¡°Ms. Olsen, it¡¯s all right. It¡¯s just Pepper!¡±


    ¡°What Pepper?¡±


    Heather¡¯s scream also frightened the dog, causing it to squirm in Josie¡¯s arms. If she hadn¡¯t been


    holding it. back, it would have dashed off long ago.


    Pepper started barking at Heather.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s okay! Pepper, everything¡¯s fine now!¡± Josie held it, doing her best to soothe the dog¡¯s


    emotions.


    Heather¡¯s face was as pale as a sheet. Seeing the dog gradually calm down, she finally breathed a


    sigh of relief. However, she still didn¡¯t dare to get close. She asked udia, ¡°Mother¡­ where did this


    doge from?¡±


    udia looked at her, her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. ¡°This is the dog you raised when you were


    a child,¡± she said.


    Upon hearing those words, Heather¡¯s face turned even paler. She looked somewhat at a loss. ¡°When I


    was a child? I-I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    Josie could see clearly now. Heather¡¯s confusion was mingled with panic and fear.


    udia turned around, only to find Josie and Pepper snuggling up to each other.


    At that moment, Heather hurriedly stepped forward, her hands trembling. ¡°Mother, as you know, I¡¯ve


    forgotten many things. I never thought that I would be afraid of dogs when I grew up.¡±


    She attempted to approach Pepper, but it was extremely resistant as if it had seen an enemy.


    ¡°All right. It¡¯s normal to be scared. People change.¡± udia spoke up, preventing her froming any


    closer.


    ¡°How did you get here? Where is Dexter?¡±


    Heather gradually returned to her senses. ¡°He had an unexpected matter to attend to, so his secretary


    came to pick him up.¡±


    udia nodded, and Heather gave a bitter smile. ¡°I¡¯ve even raised a dog. Why has no one ever told


    me?¡±


    ¡°Your father is allergic to dog hair, so after you got lost, we kept the dog in the backyard. Only a few


    elderly people know about this. Even Summer is not aware.¡±


    Heather nodded slowly, her head lowereti as she tried hard to find a topic of conversation.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, you don¡¯t seem to be afraid of dogs. Have you raised one before?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never raised one before.¡± Josie gently soothed Pepper before handing it back to the housekeeper.


    ¡°You¡¯ve never raised one before, yet you were quite bold just now.¡±


    Josie looked straight into Heather¡¯s eyes, which were tinged with a hint of panic, and smiled. ¡°Perhaps I


    was just born not afraid of dogs. But it¡¯s strange, Ms. Olsen. You used to love dogs when you were


    little, but you don¡¯t like them now as you¡¯ve grown up. That¡¯s quite unusual.¡±


    A love for animals was innate and generally wouldn¡¯t change.


    It was evident that Heather was trying her best to stay calm. ¡°I was scared just now, but perhaps with


    time, I¡¯ll get used to Pepper.¡±


    Josie constantly wore a gentle smile. She handed over the drawing she had been holding, ¡°Your


    drawing skills are impressive. Here, this is yours.¡±


    Heather was taken aback. Upon clearly seeing the content of the painting, she furrowed her brows


    noticeably. She managed to squeeze out a smile. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Josie removed her gloves and bid farewell to udia. As she left the exhibition hall, Pepper kept


    watching her and making a whimpering sound.

 Chapter 841 Claudia Grows Suspicious

    Chapter 841 udia Grows Suspicious


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Heather returned to her senses, not realizing that she was being somewhat cautious.


    udia withdrew her gaze and said in a reassuring manner, ¡°If you don¡¯t like that, Pepper can stay in


    the backyard. There¡¯s no need to force it.¡±


    Heather let out a subtle sigh of relief and replied, ¡°Mother, thanks for your understanding. However, I


    wille by often and visit Pepper.¡±


    udia hummed in agreement and promptly left. However, she couldn¡¯t help but recall Josie¡¯s earlier


    words: You used to love dogs when you were little, but you don¡¯t like them anymore after growing up¡­


    Liana loved everything, especially animals. She believed that that would never change even as she


    grew older as it was something innate.


    However, Heather¡¯s expression earlier was that of caution and fear, as well as a certain¡­ disdain.


    It was baffling to her that her daughter was showing such emotions.


    udia suddenly felt a little gloomy, as if something was enveloping her, something she couldn¡¯t break


    through. She took a deep breath before taking a turn and heading toward the shrine room.


    Meanwhile, Heather remained standing in the same spot and took another nce at Pepper, who had


    a leash attached to it. The dog suddenly barked at her. Feeling startled, the woman patted her chest to


    calm herself down.


    She was gripping the drawing so tightly that she nearly tore a hole in it.


    Josie returned to where she came from, only to find that the ce was empty, except for the


    housekeeper, who was cleaning..


    She instructed, ¡°Please tell Mrs. Olsen that I¡¯m making a move first.¡±


    The housekeeper nodded respectfully and replied in a gentle voice, ¡°Ms. Warren, someone will be


    waiting for you at the entrance of the Olsen Residence to send you back.¡±


    Josie was rather surprised to hear that as it was unlike the Olsen family to be that kind.


    The rain had stopped and sunlight poured through the clouds. At the entrance of the Olsen Residence,


    the bougainvillea was blooming vibrantly. Josie narrowed her eyes and walked further down. To a


    surprise, she saw a Mercedes AMG G 63 parked there.


    The license te of the car was extremely attention-seeking.


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    It was likely that Moses had driven the car there as he had walked straight toward her after getting out


    of the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°You should get into the car.¡±


    Josie let out a slight scoff and replied, ¡°I really don¡¯t understand the world of the rich. Where¡¯s his car?¡±


    Moses braced himself and replied, ¡°It¡¯s staying in the Olsen Residence as Ms. Olsen said she liked it.¡±


    Josie pressed her tongue against the roof of her mouth and merely replied, ¡°Oh.¡±


    Moses did not dare speak any further.


    After taking a deep inhale, Jiang Shu eventually walked over and got into the car.


    The faint scent of sandalwood inside the car reminded her of the man¡¯s aura, calm, yet at the same


    time, exuding a sense of authority.


    Without looking at him, she said, ¡°Even the Olsen family¡¯s housekeeper is working for you. Dexter,


    you¡¯re really something huh?¡±


    No wonder he is always so updated with the news.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    From the corner of her eyes, she noticed the man¡¯s gloomy expression. In fact, his expression was so


    grim. that he looked almost sickly. ¡°One should always be thorough in their actions. For example, if I


    were you, I wouldn¡¯t have met Arnold in the middle of the night.¡±


    He found out.


    Josie had always felt bad toward him when it came to matters concerning Arnold. She stiffened slightly


    before getting straight to the point, ¡°Where¡¯s Pop?¡±


    Dexter looked up slowly, his gazending on her scraped wrist. ¡°When did I ever say I knew where he


    was?¡± he replied with a hint of amusement in his voice


    Josie quickly covered the spot on her wrist that had just been bitten by Pepper and said anxiously, ¡°You


    clearly said it. Dexter, don¡¯t toy with me. You know how important this is to me.¡±


    Remaining nonchnt, Dexter extended his big cold hand and grasped her wrist firmly before forcefully


    flipping it over.


    His eyes were elongated, which was characteristic of that of a womanizer. However, all they exuded


    was a powerful sense of oppression. ¡°I do have a lead, but I can¡¯t confirm anything yet.¡±


    ¡°Just tell me what it is, I can look for him myself!¡± Josie said forcefully, her brows furrowed in


    frustration., At that moment, she could hardly be bothered about the fact that the man was touching


    her.


    Dexter ignored the woman and took out a band-aid from the storage box before sticking it on her hand.


    It was simply impossible to get him to say anything he was unwilling to say.

 Chapter 842 Grandpa Is Ill

    Chapter 842 Grandpa Is Ill


    As she had a history of getting hurt easily, Dexter had made a point to have first aid kits ced in every


    car in his garage.


    At the thought of what happened the previous day, Josie could not help but feel a sense of irony.


    She withdraws her hand abruptly and said, ¡°You should save your affection for Liana. She would be


    delighted to have it. It would be a waste to shower it on a heartless person like me!¡±


    With the sunlight casting a glow on her face, one could clearly see the anger that was shimmering in


    her eyes.


    Even though Dexter was usually susceptible to her tactics, his current expression was unreadable. He


    gripped her chin, forcing her to look at him.


    ¡°Josie, do you really think your temper is worth a fortune?¡±


    Although it was nothing valuable, it was enough to soften his heart.


    Josie took a deep breath and was about to step out of the car when the man yanked her back in. After


    mming the car door shut, Dexter pinned her against the seat. With an ominous shadow looming over


    her, Josie eximed in fright, ¡°We¡¯re in the car!¡±


    ¡°Is my neck. ex-wife jealous?¡± Dexter snorted coldly, tracing his fingers across her smooth cheek down


    to her


    Josie was trying her best to resist the itch as she replied, ¡°Why would I be jealous?¡±


    ¡°Liana.¡±


    ¡°The two of you are a match made in heaven. When you get married, I¡¯ll definitely prepare a grand gift


    for you.¡±


    Feeling amused, she could not help butugh out loud. However as sheughed, sorrow and


    bitterness. gradually filled her eyes.


    Dexter slightly furrowed his brows before reaching out and lightly pping her with the back of his


    hand. Instead of a forceful hit, it seemed more like a flirtatious gesture.


    Josie raised an eyebrow and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the case? Do you dare to say that you will never marry


    her?¡±


    With an unfathomable expression on his face, the man sat up straight. He pulled out a cigarette and


    started smoking, savoring each puff.


    Also sitting upright, Josie said, ¡°You can¡¯t guarantee that.¡±


    She had to admit that she did feel a pang of pain in her heart as she looked at his side profile.


    ¡°The business arena is like a battlefield. It is not as simple as you think,¡± Dexter said as he exhaled a


    puff of smoke, his gaze softening.


    Just then, a car was seen approaching from the front. Looking at the car, he said, ¡°Follow Larry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not interested in your affairs, I can leave on my own.¡± Josieposed herself. She was feeling


    almost suffocated due to the multitude of secrets she had been harboring recently.


    Dexter reached out to open the door. With one leg out of the car, he said before leaving, ¡°Grandpa is in


    the hospital. If you still care about him, you should go see him.¡±


    After saying that, he shut the door and strode toward Larry¡¯s car which was parked ahead, his figure


    exuding a cold aura.


    Without looking back, he got into the car and drove off, disappearing from sight.


    Since she refused to leave, he would leave instead.


    Moses quickly got into the car. Turning to look at Josic in the back seat, he said cautiously, ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    Snapping back to her senses, Josie asked anxiously, ¡°What happened to Grandpa?¡±


    Aware of the situation, Moses replied, ¡°He had suddenly fainted and has remained unconscious in the


    hospital. It has been over a month now.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie became even more worried. Disregarding Dexter¡¯s words, she said, ¡°Why


    didn¡¯t anyone tell me?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell didn¡¯t allow¡ª¡±


    ¡°Take me to the hospital.¡±


    Josie could feel her heart beating faster and faster throughout the journey. After having a close shave


    witht death, the old man was already not in the pink of health when she met him previously. As such,


    she was extremely worried after hearing that he had fainted again.


    Among everyone, Henry was probably the only one who had never exploited her for any personal gain.


    The nature of their rtionship had long evolved. To her, he was no longer just Dexter¡¯s grandfather,


    but he had be her grandfather as well.


    As Moses drove at top speed, it only took them a while to arrive at the hospital. The moment the car


    came to a stop, Josie got out. Just as she was entering the elevator, her phone suddenly vibrated;


    someone had sent a message.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    She froze when she nced down and saw the text: The results are out. Where are you?

 Chapter 843 Test Results

    Chapter 843 Test Results


    Henry stayed in the VIP ward where it was peaceful at noon, and hardly anyone could be seen.


    Josie stood at the door. Several times, she raised her hand to knock, but each time, she could not bring


    herself to do it.


    She hesitated for a long time and was filled with worry and fear. Her fear was overwhelming. With Paul


    gone, if anything were to happen to her grandfather, she did not know how she would cope.


    In the end, she did not knock on the door. Instead, she sat on the bench in the hallway and was lost in


    a sea of thoughts.


    Seeing her in such a state of unease, Moses could not help but worry. He cleared his throat and said,


    ¡°Josie, I¡¯ll go get you some food.¡±


    Josie did not lift her head. ¡°Since he told you to watch me, then just watch me properly. Don¡¯t speak


    unnecessarily.¡±


    Moses abruptly halted his steps. His motion of pulling out his phone froze midway. Awkwardly, he


    rubbed his nose.


    About half an hourter, Mallory arrived in a hurry. She had not even opened the file holder in her hand.


    -Josie-


    Catching a glimpse of Moses, she stood still and hesitated for a moment.


    Josie finally looked up. ¡°Come over here.¡±


    Mallory hesitated for a moment before handing over the document bag and softly saying, ¡°I just


    returned from Lightspring. No one else has handled this. I haven¡¯t looked at it yet.¡±


    Josie nced at Moses and noticed that his intense gaze was fixed on her. She tightened her grip on


    the document bag and took a deep breath.


    After a moment, she finally mustered the courage to open it and pull out one of the documents. It was


    Heather¡¯s and udia¡¯s.


    Her fingertips rested on the final result and slowly moved away.


    Result Interpretation: The maternal probability is 100%.


    Upon seeing the result, Josie¡¯s hands began to tremble uncontrobly, and her face turned pale.


    In all paternity tests, the certainty of denying biological parentage was 100%, while the confirmation of


    biological parentage was 99%.


    One of her spections had already been confirmed.


    There was another one¡­


    Mallory looked at her with worry.


    Josie closed her eyes for a moment. Then with a sink-or-swim determination, she pulled out another


    report.


    That belonged to her and udia.


    Her hands trembled even more as she continued to look down.


    Commissioned Identification Matter: Parental Rtionship Identification.


    Child: Josie. Mother to be tested: udia..


    Child¡¯s sample for testing: Hair. Mother¡¯s sample to be tested: Hair.


    Interpretation of Results: The maternal probability is 99.999999%.


    Suddenly, Josie¡¯s grip loosened, and the paper slowly fell. Just as it was about to hit the ground,


    Mallory swiftly caught it. She quickly straightened it out and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you saw, and I


    won¡¯t ask or look, but I hope you¡¯re prepared.¡±


    Josie felt a heavy weight in her heart. With a trembling voice, she asked Mallory, ¡°Do you have a


    lighter?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­¡±


    Josie ced the two pieces of paper together, walked over to the trash bin, and set the papers on fire.


    The mes flickered and quickly consumed the papers. Josie let go and stared at the pile of ashes in


    the trash. bin with a pale face.


    In this world, only she knew the secret.


    From a distance, Moses watched her series of actions, and his brows furrowed in concern. But with the


    documents burned, even if he wanted to investigate, he would not know where to start.


    The scientific exnation left Josie in a daze, and she was almost gasping for breath.


    There were no ifs, ands, or buts this time.


    Those instances of tacit understanding were no longer mere coincidences but the natural intuition.


    between mother and daughter.


    How dare Heather take my ce!Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Just then, the door to Henry¡¯s ward was opened from the inside. It was Marilyn. She was the first to see


    Moses. ¡°What are you doing here¡­¡±


    Immediately after, she saw Josie. She was surprised and delighted. ¡°Jo!¡±


    Josie was still struggling to calm herself down, but she managed to squeeze out a smile. ¡°Ms. Marilyn.¡±


    Inside the hospital room, only the sound of the EKG served as a reminder of human presence. Henry


    had awakened. He opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. His face was thin and aged, and he


    looked weak. Josie slowly moved forward with her heavy heart.

 Chapter 844 I Am Both Leanne And Liana

    Chapter 844 I Am Both Leanne And Liana


    ¡°He woke up a week ago. The doctor said there¡¯s nothing seriously wrong for now. But with age, a


    major illness can take a lot out of him. He needs to take it easy and recuperate,¡± said Marilyn.


    ¡°Dex is always worried andes over to check on us every day. Henry was afraid he¡¯d neglect his


    duties, so he told Dex not toe anymore. Who would have thought he¡¯d tell you? Doesn¡¯t this just


    worry you?¡±


    A look of sorrow crossed Josie¡¯s face. She finally understood why she felt an inexplicable closeness


    every time she saw Henry.


    It was not until she sat by the bed that Henry finally reacted and gradually focused his gaze on her


    face. He stared at her for a few seconds before blurting out, ¡°It¡¯s you, Leanne¡­¡±


    It felt as if something had seized Josie¡¯s heart.


    Marilyn was startled. ¡°He¡¯s confused. This is Jo, Josic, not Liana.¡±


    Josic signaled that it was okay, then immediately took hold of the old man¡¯s thin, bony hand. She forced


    a smile. ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s me.¡±


    It¡¯s me. I am Leanne, also known as Liana.


    Henry alsoughed with tears streaming from his dry eyes. ¡°Is that so? I remember. I¡¯m not confused.¡±


    His mental state was not the best. Hecked energy and was actually quite confused.


    However, Josie nodded while holding her tears back. ¡°You¡¯re not confused. I came to see you. How are


    you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Everyone has to die. We all will eventually. Don¡¯t worry about me, Leanne,¡± Henry said slowly. His


    gaze lingered on her with reluctance to let go.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    The more he spoke, the more Josie choked up. Eventually, her eyes turned red, and she began to sob.


    She rested her forehead on the back of her grandfather¡¯s hand, and her back was trembling.


    ¡°Why are you crying? Did you not eat well? Or did you not sleep well? Leanne, you mustn¡¯t stay up


    late. You need to eat on time. You¡¯ve grown so much. It¡¯s been a long time since Ist saw you.¡±


    The tears Josie had been holding back these past few days suddenly burst forth, and she could not


    help but break down into uncontroble sobs.


    Perhaps it was not just for these few days but also for all the lost years.


    Why didn¡¯t I recognize my grandfather the first time I saw him


    Why didn¡¯t I do anything after encountering so many thingster on?


    Memories shed before her like a carousel of images, and she med herself.


    Josie was crying so hard that even Marilyn, who did not understand the reason, felt distressed.


    Only Henry patientlyforted her and treated her as if she were his own granddaughter.


    ¡°Did Dex bully you? Tell me. I¡¯ll sort him out!¡±


    When Dexter was mentioned, Josie finally began to calm down.


    ¡°I¡¯m just tired. Very tired.¡± She took a deep breath and revealed her truest self.


    That really frightened Henry, and he was about to sit up. ¡°Who bullied you? Tell them that the entire


    Russell family is behind you. Let theme find me!¡±


    A warmth spread through Josie¡¯s heart, and her tears turned intoughter. She asked Marilyn for a


    towel and gently wiped Henry¡¯s face.


    Fortunately, she discovered the truth just in time.


    What she feared the most was that it would be toote for her to fulfill her duties as a filial child.


    Henry let her do as she pleased and seemed more and more confused. He said to Marilyn, ¡°See, it¡¯s


    good to have a granddaughter. That boy, Dexter, never gives me a moment of peace.¡±


    Marilyn responded with a bitter smile.


    Henry looked at Josie and suddenly asked, ¡°Have you been doing well all these years away?¡±


    Josie¡¯s movements came to a halt..


    ¡°It was not as good as when I¡¯m by your side.¡± Even without regaining her memory, Josie could feel the


    warmth from her grandfather. She could imagine how well she had been treated before.


    Henry patted her hand. ¡°Will you stay by my side from now on?¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±

 Chapter 845 Justin Can Help

    Chapter 845 Justin Can Help


    After leaving the hospital room, Marilyn still felt a bit apologetic, for Dexter and Josie were already.


    divorced. She was worried that Henry¡¯s mentioning of Liana might upset Josie.


    ¡°He¡¯s getting old, Jo. Please don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    Josie shook her head, then asked, ¡°When exactly did he fall ill?¡±


    Marilyn gave it some thought before giving a specific timeframe. ¡°Over a month ago.¡±


    After saying that, she thought of something else, but the words never left her lips. After all, Dexter had


    warned not to tell Josie why Henry had fainted, as it would make Josie feel guilty.


    Regardless, Josie already recalled the hardships during that time. It was right after Paul disappeared.


    She even had a falling out with Dexter, ming him for not being like Arnold, who had followed her to


    Rivodia to ensure her safety.


    She considered the timeframe. So, it was because Grandpa was sick?


    Then, why did he never mention about it?


    Taking a deep breath, Josie gave Marilyn a few instructions on taking care of Henry, then left the


    hospital.


    Meanwhile, Mallory was waiting in the parking lot when she spotted Josie approaching step by step,


    with Moses following behind.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving with Ms. Whiteford. Are you still gonna follow us?¡± Josie turned to the side.


    ¡°No¡­¡± Even though he said this, he still didn¡¯t leave.


    As Josie entered Mallory¡¯s car, Moses also quickly climbed into that Mercedes AMG G 63 and tailed


    them. out of the hospital.


    Dexter had only instructed Moses to take Joses to the hospital and nothing else. Therefore, after the


    latter followed them out of the hospital entrance, he turned the corner and left.


    Seeing the Mercedes disappearing in the rearview mirror, Mallory shifted her gaze to the passenger


    seat. ¡°Why are you letting Dexter¡¯s people tail you? Aren¡¯t you afraid he will find something?¡±


    ¡°What could he find? The report has already been burned by me. Moses has no way to investigate it. At


    most, he¡¯ll just be curious about why you¡¯re with me. But you and I have been through hardships


    together, so it¡¯s only normal for us to meet. Even if he reports back, he won¡¯t have much to say.¡±


    Josie looked at the mirror in the car and reapplied her lipstick. Instantly, her face regained its color.


    She nced sideways, asking, ¡°There are exclusive channels for obtaining information in Heaven on


    Earth, right?¡±


    Mallorypressed her lips, having guessed the woman¡¯s thoughts. ¡°If Calvin finds out, things will get


    incrediblyplicated.¡±


    Calvin, at first nce, seemed like an unpredictable spoiled rich brat yet actually had a clear sense of


    boundaries. He would never get involved with things he shouldn¡¯t. Toward Dexter, apart from


    camaraderie, Calvin also exhibited unwavering loyalty


    Everyone said that Dexter¡¯s sess today wouldn¡¯t have been possible without the help of his right


    and left-hand men.


    The right-hand man was naturally Calvin, while the left was Zachariah.


    ¡°But you¡¯ve been with him for so long. You must have already developed your ownwork of informant


    yes?¡± Josie spected boldly. In order to stay by the side of someone as tactful as Calvin for so long,


    one needed not only personal charm but also sufficient intelligence.


    Her movement of applying lipstick slowed down. ¡°Mallory, I won¡¯t lie to you. I¡¯m at a dead end now. If


    you¡¯re willing to help me, I will definitely repay you in the future, but if you aren¡¯t, I won¡¯t force you either


    I just hope you¡¯ll pretend that today¡¯s events never happened.¡±


    As she had cried, her eyes were still red and swollen, making her look quite pitiful.


    Mallory¡¯s heart was moved by Josie¡¯s struggles and decisiveness.


    ¡°There is someone who can handle this for you. I¡¯ve been grooming him for almost a year in the


    country club. You know him as well.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Josie was puzzled. ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Justin.¡±


    Justin? After getting into trouble, he got detained by Calvin in the country club. Hmm, a lot of time has


    passed, indeed. To think he has been under Mallory¡¯s supervision all this time.

 Chapter 846 Reclaiming What Is Rightfully Hers

    Chapter 846 Reiming What Is Rightfully Hers


    ¡°My younger brother.¡±


    Mallory hummed in agreement. ¡°He has changed a lot now. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware, too. If you trust him,


    I can arrange a time for you two to meet.¡±


    ¡°No need. I¡¯m being watched by many people; it¡¯s too conspicuous. I¡¯ll go back and contact him.¡±


    Since Josie¡¯s identity had been usurped, it was likely that her every move had been under constant


    surveince.


    ¡°I think I more or less have an idea about the oue. What are you nning to do?¡± Mallory asked


    clearly.


    Upon hearing this, Josie paused her lipstick application and slightly lifted her gaze. Ahead of her was a


    bustling stream of traffic, which, framed by towering skyscrapers on either side, seemed as insignificant


    as ants.


    ¡°Reim what¡¯s rightfully mine.¡± The lipstick cover snapped shut with a click, a sound that seemed to


    emphasize her determination.


    And on her face was an unprecedented resolve.


    Mallory floored the gas pedal, overtaking everyone on the wide road.


    On the top floor of Russell Group, Moses had just finished with his report and left when Zachariah


    happened to walk in from outside with a box of tea leaves in hand. ¡°I just got some chamomile tea.


    Want at drink?¡±


    Dexter removed his neatly tailored suit jacket and set it aside while Zachariah had already taken a seat,


    starting to boil water on his own.


    ¡°How¡¯s the Southern District?¡± Dexter sat in the main seat.


    ¡°Edward Carter has been beaten to the point of needing medical attention and can no longer handle it


    physically. Arnold has already applied for bail pending trial.¡±


    Dexter scoffed, ¡°He¡¯s been applying for years without any sess. He sure is persistent.¡±


    Zachariah grabbed a handful of tea leaves, ced them in the teapot, and poured in hot water before


    putting on the lid.


    ¡°Some battles are destined to be lost from the start. He¡¯s simply overestimating his capabilities. That


    person from Rivodia can¡¯t get involved with this; he can¡¯t even manage the recent fall in the Carter


    Group¡¯s stock prices, let alone Edward.¡± Zachariah poured tea into the cups. ¡°I wonder why Arnold is so


    hell-bent on him.¡±


    Dexter took one. ¡°He¡¯s doing this because Mr. Dalton still has value to him. He¡¯s a desperado. It¡¯s really


    not known who¡¯s being used as a tool¡±


    Zachariah frowned. ¡°He¡¯s that confident that Mr. Dalton won¡¯t betray him?¡±


    ¡°He has been handling affairs for Mr. Dalton for so many years and has long be thetter¡¯s


    confidant. When the timees, whose orders those subordinates will listen to is still up for debate.¡±


    Dexter brought the teacup to his nose, took a light sniff, and then took a sip. ¡°If he gets caught, Mr.


    Dalton won¡¯t be able to escape either. Their fates are dependent on each other¡±


    The tea was slightly bitter, not to his liking.


    ¡°Then, what on Earth are they doing? The Carter Group¡¯s stocks are plummeting so much that they¡¯ve


    practically lost the trust of their investors. On top of that, Russell Group has snatched several major


    projects from them in the construction sector. They already seem to be on the verge of copse. Why


    isn¡¯t Mr. Dalton doing anything about it?¡±


    Zachariah was the puppet master, so he was fully aware of the current situation of the Carter Group.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for him to intervene. Wavery still has the Olsen family. Mark will naturally clean up the


    mess for Mr. Dalton.¡±


    Realization dawned on Zachariah, and he clicked his tongue. ¡°As long as he doesn¡¯t divorce Summer,


    he has a way out. He¡¯s truly riding on her coattails.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Dexter didn¡¯t express his opinion and instead stared at the ripples in his teacup.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Zachariah yfully nudged the man¡¯s arm. ¡°There¡¯s a rumor going around about


    you and Liana. Are you gonna ride on her coattails?¡±


    At the mention of that, Dexter pressed the center of his forehead. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not joking with you. You and Liana have been close since childhood, so she¡¯s not considered a


    third party. Moreover, if you and the Olsen family have a marriage alliance, Russell Group will


    undoubtedly be more powerful. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve never considered this.¡±


    As Zachariah spoke, he fixed his gaze on Dexter¡¯s expression but unfortunately couldn¡¯t discern


    anything. He drew in a sharp breath, adding, ¡°You¡¯re not¡­ still thinking about Josie, are you?¡±

 Chapter 847 Involving The Police

    Chapter 847 Involving The Police


    Like a lion waking up, Dexter opened his eyes as these words were spoken.


    Zachariah¡¯s pupils dted, ¡°Did I guess right?¡±


    The look in Dexter¡¯s eyes turned slightly gloomy. ¡°Don¡¯t make wild guesses.¡±


    The two of them had known each other for many years, so their friendship was deeply rooted.


    Zachariah could guess what he was thinking with considerable uracy, which was why he was able


    to handle every matter so smoothly.


    ¡°I¡¯m just saying. Josie and Liana are worlds apart, so be careful not to choose the wrong path.¡±


    Perhaps it was due to his family background, but Zachariah always looked down on Josie. She had no


    influential family background, and she was seen as being out of her league by marrying Dexter.


    Morcover, her actionster on only worsened Zachariah¡¯s impression of her.


    She was nowhere near as precious as the one from the Olsen family.


    Upon hearing those words, Dexter¡¯s eyes grew colder and more ruthless. ¡°I¡¯ve never thought that I¡¯ve


    chosen the wrong path.¡±


    Zachariah hesitated for a moment, not quite understanding what he meant. Who exactly did he


    choose?


    Dexter stood up and said, ¡°I have drunk chamomile tea many times, but I have tasted nothing special.


    Take it out of my office.¡±


    Noticing that he was clearly upset, Zachariah didn¡¯t dare stick around any longer. He closed the box of


    tea leaves and took it away. As he reached the door, he ran into Larry, who greeted him respectfully,


    ¡°Mr. Shaw.¡±


    Zachariah raised an eyebrow at him and asked, ¡°Do you like chamomile tea? I¡¯ll give you some.¡±


    Larry smiled awkwardly and nced at Dexter as he replied hesitantly, ¡°No one in Russell Group likes


    this tea.¡±


    ¡°I actually think it¡¯s okay. Your boss is in a bad mood, so I¡¯d advise you not to say any further unless it¡¯s


    something positive,¡± Zachariah said half-jokingly.


    ¡°Are you done?¡± Dexter raised his voice, clearly exasperated.


    Zachariah clicked his tongue and quickly slipped away without saying another word.


    Larry stepped forward and reported, ¡°Mr. Russell, our ople have lost contact with Sky Pce. All things


    considered, however, Arnold couldn¡¯t possibly hide someone in a ce like a club. It¡¯s too conspicuous


    Dexter stood before the floor-to-ceig window, overlooking the traffic and pedestrians below, who


    seemed as insignificant as ants. The look in his eyes was gloomy and inscrutable.


    He said in a deep voice. ¡°The most dangerous ce is often the safest. Have your men keep a close


    eye on his gang


    ¡°I¡¯ll arrange for surveince.¡±


    After Larry finished his report and was about to leave, Dexter suddenly called cut to him, ¡°Was there a


    Larry pondered for a moment before replying, ¡°Yes, but there¡¯s no updates. I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s because


    there¡¯s no progress in the investigation, or if he has encountered some obstacles.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡±


    ¡°Scott Buraho.¡±


    Find a way to keep him investigating. It¡¯s easier to get things done at the club with the involvement of


    the police.¡±


    Larry took note of everything, ncing at Dexter¡¯s indifferent silhouette. Suddenly, it didn¡¯t seem so


    cold anymore, but rather, it carried a touch of warmth.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ You sure are concerned about Ms. Warren¡¯s matters. It¡¯s just a pity that-¡±


    Dexter lowered his gaze and finished the sentence for him, ¡°It¡¯s a pity she doesn¡¯t appreciate my


    efforts.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    On the office desk, there was a pot of sunflowers that were about to bloom, its buds emitting a faint.


    fragrance.


    This was the flower Josie had once picked from the greenhouse and ced on his desk. She said that


    she hoped when he was tired from work, seeing this flower would remind him of her, and he wouldn¡¯t


    feei so exhausted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me, Dexter.¡± Her words, herughter, and the vivid look in her eyes still lingered in


    Dexter¡¯s. heart.


    Back then, their rtionship was still strong, and they hadn¡¯t reached the point of divorce.


    Dexter closed his eyes.


    She probably never imagined that they would end up in such a situation.

 Chapter 848 Sold Off By An Acquaintance

    Chapter 848 Sold Off By An Acquaintance


    As if nothing had happened, Josie carried on with her life and work as usual after leaving the Olsen


    family.


    Russell Group¡¯s constructionpany had taken on several major projects. She hadn¡¯tpletely


    disengaged from her work there, and had a certain amount of authority to get them to coborate with


    the studio. That made her exceptionally busy.


    Vith how busy everyone got, they forgot about her story with Dexter.


    ¡°Ms. Jo, I¡¯ve noticed that all the recent major projects initially involved the Carter Group,¡± Angel


    casually mentioned while printing out some documents.


    Jade, who happened to be nearby, asked, ¡°How did you know?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a rumor going around online. Look at this. It¡¯s a picture of a seaside luxury hotel. The word on


    the web is that it was supposed to belong to the Carter Group, but somehow, it ended up in the hands


    of the Russell Group,¡± Angel said, sounding quite certain.


    Josie nced over while listening to them. This project was highly sought after even before the public


    bidding began.


    That¡¯s quite normal. The Russell Group and the Carter Group have beenpeting for a long time,¡±


    said Jade.


    Angel suddenly became upset. ¡°Why do you have to argue with everything I say?¡±


    ¡°Me? How am I being argumentative? I¡¯m just stating the facts,¡± Jade said, looking genuinely puzzled.


    Angel was impatient and didn¡¯t want to talk to him anymore. She left with the printed materials in her


    arms. Jade was surprised and asked Josie, ¡°Ms. Jo, do you think I was being argumentative?¡±


    Leaning leisurely to one side, Josie nced at the retreating figure of Angel. She sensed something,


    but chose not toment on it. ¡°Girls need a bit more coaxing,¡± she advised him.


    Feeling somewhat wronged, Jade still ended up chasing after Angel.


    Whenever Josie had some free time from her busy work schedule, she would go visit Henry.


    Henry was still not very conscious, so he often mistook her for Liana. She never minded that thought In


    fact, she payed listening to his stories from the past. Sometimes, she would even take the initiative to


    ask him sen questions.


    Sun, Josie came to understand what Liana used to enjoy doing.


    She loved to draw, often got lost, adored small animals, and enjoyed wearing white dresses. She also


    liked to stick around Dexter.


    Josie would often lose herself in thought while listening Now, some of the hobbies Liana loved as a


    child no longer heid her interest.


    She never wore a white dres:


    At first, Marilyn was worried that Josie would get upset upon hearing these things. However, as time


    went on, not only was size upset, but she also enjoyed listening to them. As a result, she often


    chimed in with a few words of her own. der face up with her hands. ¡°Marilyn, you said Liana


    disappeared at night. Wasn¡¯t she at home? Don¡¯t tell me she just vanished into thin air?¡±


    Marilyn sighed. ¡°It¡¯s really strange The Olsen Residence didn¡¯t have any surveince cameras. The


    surveince cameras were only on the streets, but those did not contain footage of her leaving. Afte


    several years of investigation, it was suggested that she might have been taken away by someone she


    knew.¡±


    An acquaintance?¡± Josie frowned.


    ¡°Yes. It should be someone from the Olsen family whom Liana trusted. However, the Olsen family has


    not been able to point out the suspect.¡±


    Upon receiving the crucial information, Josie¡¯s heart pounded in shock.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Did she get sold off? But, why was she eventually taken to the hospital and then adopted by Pop? Why


    did that person kidnap her and sell her off?


    As Josie pondered, a chill ran down her spine.


    Two dayster, she finally met Justin.


    The hidden coffee shop required a detour through several alleys. Josie walked all the way in, finding a


    spot in the corner of the shop. There sat Justin, donning a baseball cap and a mask.


    She walked over, her brows furrowed as she asked, ¡°Are you pretending to be a spy?¡±


    ncing around, Justin said, ¡°Ah, I was worried that someone might be tailing you.¡±


    Josie put down her bag and sat down, calmly saying, ¡°We are siblings, so it¡¯s normal for us to meet


    asionally. Act more natural and stop hiding.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Justin finally stood up straight.


    ¡°A few days ago, you asked Mallory to entrust me with a task, and I have an update about it.¡± He took


    an envelope out of his bag and continued, ¡°Heather secretly met up with a famous art teacher in


    Wavery

 Chapter 849 Learning To Paint Through The Night

    Chapter 849 Learning To Paint Through The Night


    Josie lowered her gaze and opened the envelope. Inside was a stack of photographs.


    In the photos, Heather was dressed modestly. She met with the teacher. Under his guidance, she


    began to learn painting.


    Josie could not help but let out a coldugh. Her actions at the Olsen Residence that day had caught


    leather¡¯s attention. She was imitating everything about her, even the fact that she was painting, which


    had been overlooked.


    Heather desperately wanted to win the trust of the Olsen family.


    ¡°All we know for now is that she has booked this teacher for a month without anyone¡¯s knowledge.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie stuffed the photos back into its original ce. ¡°So how did you find out?¡±


    Justin suddenly felt a bit embarrassed, and he scratched his head. ¡°Well, I found a job suited to my


    skills.¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a smile. ¡°In this year or so at Heaven on Earth, you¡¯ve learned quite a few


    things.¡±


    It was hard to believe that Justin was once a troublemaker and caused his family endless worry. Now,


    he erned to have lost that rebellious streak. It appeared that Calvin and Mallory had done a good job in


    guiding him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve changed for the better,¡± Justin said, feeling a bit nervous under her intense gaze. ¡°Sis, I know I


    was a mess before, but I¡¯ve genuinely improved now. I have the ability to take good care of our father,


    and¡­. you.¡±


    It was indeed rare to hear those words from him. Josie felt a warmth in her heart, but then, as if


    remembering something, she sighed.


    ¡°i know, and I¡¯m happy for you.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    The waiter brought the coffee over. Josie stirred thette art with a spoon and said casually, ¡°I¡¯ll still


    need your help in the future. Just keep an eye on Heather.¡±


    ¡°May I ask why?¡± Justin looked at Josie. It had been a long time since theyst met, and he noticed


    that the innocence once present on Josie¡¯s face was gone. Instead, it was reced with a mix of worry


    and determination.


    Josie lifted her gaze, but she did not intend to reveal the truth just yet. With a flicker in her eyes, she


    sail, ¡°She and I are love rivals. Didn¡¯t you know?¡±


    justin was taken aback. ¡°So what¡¯s written on the gossip olumns is actually tr¡­.


    Josie nodded in agreement. ¡°Indeed.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡­ you¡¯re really sull hung up on Dexter?¡±


    The news of her divorce was the talk of the town in Wavery, but Justin did not pry. She had always


    been decisive. However, the previous photo scandal had hirm constantly worried. When he heard


    people gossiping about it, he even beat someore up


    Back then, he had yelled. ¡°She¡¯s not that kind of person!¡±


    Josie rolled her eyes. ¡°I suppose so.¡±


    Justin was somewhat conflicted. ¡°Actually¡­ it¡¯s true that Dexter is quite a good man, but you can find


    someone even better. You don¡¯t need to take this risk.¡±


    It was a clumsy attempt to console her. Josieughed. She was amused by his innocence.


    ¡°Anyway, keep an eye out for me. Let me know if there¡¯s any movement. When I¡¯m free, we¡¯ll talk.¡±


    justin did not understand and asked, ¡°How has Dad been doingtely?¡±


    He had been busy too, and it had been a long time since hest saw Paul.


    His question made Jesie¡¯s spine stiffen. The matter of Paul¡¯s disappearance was known only to a select


    few¡­


    ¡°He¡¯s fine, just as before,¡± Josie chose her words carefully. Justin was young and impetuous. As such,


    it was not suitable for him to know the truth.


    ¡°Oh, so he¡¯s living with you now? I should find some time to visit him. It¡¯s been a while since west


    met. Has he beenining about me to you?¡± Justin casually remarked before taking a sip of his


    coffee and grimacing at its bitterness.


    ¡°timm¡­ You do have a good sense of self-awareness.¡± Josie subconsciously tightened her grip on the


    corner of her clothes and feigned calmness. ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see. I¡¯ll have someone keep an eye on


    Heather, and she¡¯ll have someone watching me too. It won¡¯t look good if she sees us together.¡±


    Her calm voice was very persuasive. For a moment, Justin did not realize something was amiss. He did


    not ask why it would be a problem for them to meet.

 Chapter 850 The Archery Club

    Chapter 850 The Archery Club


    After leaving the cafe. Josie still had a dinner engagement to attend.


    As Angel mentioned, the project for the seaside luxury hotel was underway. Several higher-ups were


    personally involved, and the investor of the project insisted that the person in charge must attend as


    well.


    When Ang i handed it over to Josie for confirmation, Josie hesitated for a moment. ¡°Is the investor


    rted To Russell Group?¡±


    She was genuinely afraid that Dexter might be among the attendees as it was something he was


    capable of doing.


    Angel checked and said, ¡°No, they¡¯re not from Wavery


    Only then did josie feel at ease and confirm her attendance at the dinner engagement.


    The location of the dinner was an archery club. It was chosen because the investor was fond of it.


    When Josie arrived, Angel was already waiting outside and clutching a stack of documents.


    ¡°You came alone?¡± Josie took the documents and skimmed through them.


    Work doesn¡¯t involve personal feelings. Of course, I came alone.¡±


    Josie nced at her expression and continued to read the documents. ¡°Ever since you returned from


    Rivodia, you¡¯ve been impatient with Jade. What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    She saw through everything with such precision that it made Angel feel guilty. ¡°Nothing¡­¡±


    ¡°Jade is a reliable, promising young man. In a couple of years, he will have everything he should have.


    Make sure you hold onto him.¡±


    After Josie finished speaking, she closed the file and strode in. For her subordinate, her words were


    alread more than enough.


    Angel quickened her pace to catch up and responded softly in agreement.


    They arrived a bit early. The arranged venue was empty, brightly lit from within, and incredibly spacious


    In the distance, many targets stood erect.


    Every kind of utensil was readily avable, and the snacks had been prepared in advance. Josie came


    out after changing her clothes. Her hair was tied up in a high ponytail, and she looked very neat and


    spirited.


    fley waited for a while, but no one came.


    Josie was bored and wandered among the various bows and arrows. She casually picked up one. The


    longbow was full of tension. She then took an arrow, squinted her eyes, and focused on the target.


    The bow was drawn to its limit Lier hand released with all its might, and the arrow shot out.


    It hit the target right in the eighth ring.


    Angel was surprised. ¡°Ms. Je, you know archery¡±


    Josie pulled out another arrow. ¡°I¡¯ve never yed before. This is my first time.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    She discovered that she was quite talented.


    She stared at the bullseye and shot another arrow. Her expression was tense as she yed several


    times in a row.


    Her mind was filled with the words Justin said that day. The images of Heather and Paul kept reying


    in her mind and stirring up confusion.


    ust then, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed from behind. Someone was approaching.


    Following that, a familiar yet icy voice rang out. ¡°Ms. Warren really has some good techniques.¡±


    Josie frowned, and her back tensed. The arrow in her hand had not yet been released. Holding her


    bow and arrow, she slowly turned around. A clear figure appeared in her eyes a few meters away.


    Her pupils contracted. With a sudden loss of strength in her hand, the arrow flew toward the iing


    person.


    Someone eximed in surprise.


    The arrow sliced through the wind with a whistling sound and narrowly missed the person¡¯s ear as it


    flew past.


    ¡°Mr. Bastille! Are you all right?¡± Hispanions, scared out of their wits, hurriedly rushed forward to


    check on him.


    The arrow grazed Morgan¡¯s ear, and a faint streak of blood appeared. He touched it with his fingertip


    and chuckled lightly. ¡°Such audacity.¡±


    Josie stood still with her hands hanging loosely by her sides. There was not a trace of remorse in her


    demeanor, only an added touch of indifference.


    Why are you here, Mr. Bastille?¡±


    Morgan watched her take two steps back. He pulled out the arrow that was stuck in the wall before


    walkin toward her. ¡°I¡¯m an investor. Shouldn¡¯t I be here?¡±


    That was within her expectations. Yet upon hearing his response, Josie¡¯s eyes still darkened.


    She knew it.


    ¡°So¡­ M. Bastille knows Ms. Warren,¡± one of the higher-ups quickly chimed in the moment he noticed


    the tense ation.


    We¡¯re old friends,¡± Morgan said with a sly smile. He stood in front of her and presented the arrow with


    both hands.

 Chapter 851 Form A Strong Alliance

    Chapter 851 Form A Strong Alliance


    The arrow rested quietly on Morgan¡¯s palm.


    Josie didn¡¯t take it. ¡°I never expected you to be so ambitious that you¡¯ve already expanded your


    business all the way to Wavery, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    The people with Morgan were all higher-ups who held sway in Wavery. Right then, they were cautiously


    studying her, somewhat taken aback and apprehensive upon hearing her sharp words..


    Over the past two years, she had undoubtedly been the most audacious woman in Wavery.


    Since she wasn¡¯t taking it, Morgan closed his palm and lifted one hand. A staff member timely handed


    him. a bow. Notching the arrow, he said, ¡°Everyone thinks I love this city when I actually love one


    person living in it.¡±


    Having said that, he narrowed his eyes. Suddenly, the arrow flew out.


    His movements were so swift that no one could react in time. The arrow whizzed past Josie¡¯s ear,


    bringing a violent gust of wind and a sharp whistle.


    Josie¡¯s face turned pale even as the sound of an arrow hitting the target squarely rang out.


    One of the higher-ups was the first to react, pping his hands. ¡°Bullseye! What superb archery skills,


    Mr. Bastille!¡±


    Morgan merely stared at Josie¡¯s pale face with a smirk. ¡°Was it exciting?¡±


    Slowly snapping back to her senses, Josie realized that her ear wasn¡¯t grazed at all, and there wasn¡¯t a


    single, trace of injury. His archery skills were indeed impressive.


    After she had gathered her wits about her, her temper instantly red. She snagged a ss of water a


    staff member ced at the side and threw it at him. ¡°Were you out of your mind?¡±


    The sudden outburst frightened everyone. Only Morgan remained remarkably calm. He grabbed her


    hand and forcefully spun her around to his front before forcing her to grip the bow in his hand.


    Every move of hers was controlled by him, including drawing the bow and notching the arrow.


    ¡°Let go of me, Morgan!¡± Josie¡¯s face instantly flushed bright red in embarrassment. With so many


    people. watching, it was utterly disgraceful.


    ¡°Your archery skills arecking, so let me teach you, Ms. Warren,¡± Morgan said loudly.


    Everyone exchanged nces, at a loss as to the kind of game that big shot from Rivodia was up to.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to teach me!¡± Josie hissed lowly, stepping on his leather shoe with her heel.


    Morgan¡¯s expression remained unchanged. Grasping her hand, he drew the bow, ¡°In archery, it¡¯s not


    just about aim but also the feel. If your strength is insufficient or your techniquecking, you won¡¯t be


    able to hit the bullseye.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    His voice, deep yet tinged with the vibrancy of his youth, guided her gently in her ear


    Josie instinctively shrank back


    ¡°Much like investing, money alone isn¡¯t enough. You also have to consider the strength of the field and


    your own capabilities. Nothing can be forced,¡± Morgan said firmly. ¡°With the participation of Russell


    Group for this project, coupled with Bastille Group¡¯s investment, I¡¯m confident that we can definitely


    form. a strong alliance.¡±


    Right after he had said that, the arrow shot out once more, striking the same target as before.


    It was still bullseye.


    Morgan dropped his hold on her. ¡°What do you think, Ms. Warren?¡±


    He took the tissue from the staff and wiped his fingers meticulously, maintaining an upbeat and cheerful


    demeanor.


    Josie frowned, truly at a loss as to what Morgan was up to. It was one thing for him to stir up trouble in


    Rivodia, but he had actuallye all the way to Wavery to do the same..


    At her prolonged silence, the higher-ups quickly interjected, ¡°Yes, yes, it¡¯ll be a strong alliance. With


    Ms. Warren¡¯s team of designers, it¡¯ll go from strength to strength! I¡¯m sure this project will be a


    resounding sess.¡±


    Morgan merely smiled without saying a word, waiting for Josie¡¯s response.


    Josie turned away, only to be swiftly pulled aside by a higher-up who warned in a hushed tone,


    ¡°Morgan is a key figure in Wavery¡¯s investment project for the next year. I don¡¯t know what your


    rtionship is with him, but we must keep him here. Don¡¯t lose your temper, please!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie shot the man a sidelong nce. ¡°Keep him here? Is that necessary? He came


    running to give us money of his own ord.¡±

 Chapter 852 Summer Exerts Pressure

    Chapter 852 Summer Exerts Pressure


    The higher-up was left without a retort, for that was the truth. Rivodia¡¯s development was impressive,


    and no one had expected Morgan toe to Wavery.


    ¡°No matter what, we must pander to this big shot today. The mayor has given strict orders. If anything


    goes wrong, neither of us can bear the consequences.¡±


    Josie swept her gaze over the people present there. Among them were the district mayor and the


    secretary. Even the police chief was there.


    ¡°Such a grand reception?¡± How much money must he have invested?


    Seeing her surprised gaze on the police chief, the district mayor quickly exined, ¡°This big shot¡¯s


    primary requirement is good public security. That¡¯s why the police chief is here to lend his support.¡±


    At that, the corners of Josie¡¯s mouth twitched. Could the security in Wavery be any worse than that in


    Rivodia?


    She reluctantly returned to Morgan¡¯s side and mocked under her breath, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re still


    scared from that incident in Rivodia that you¡¯re always asking for good public security wherever you


    go?¡±


    Following her quip, Morgan smiled. ¡°I value my life more.¡±


    Josie forced a smile. ¡°Boss, would you like to try other activities? I¡¯ll apany you.¡±


    In such a situation, her personal likes and dislikes couldn¡¯t be taken into consideration anymore. All she


    could do was smile and y along.


    Morgan was pleased with her attitude. He even patted her on the head. ¡°I¡¯ve just arrived in Wavery and


    am, hungry after the long journey. Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    ¡°Ah, we¡¯ve prepared the food for a while now,¡± a higher-up said.


    And so, they entered the private room that had been prepared in advance. During the meal, Morgan


    changed into a new set of clothes and discussed the coboration with them. The conversation flowed


    back and forth, filled with pleasantries and formalities.


    Josie paid little attention. She buried her head in the food, all the while musing inwardly. How long is


    Morgan going to stay in Wavery? Surely, he isn¡¯t nning to stick around until the project ispleted,


    right?


    ¡°Wavery is already a nationally renowned tourist city. With the development of this project and the


    support of Russell Group and Bastille Group, the tourism industry is bound to reach new heights.¡±


    At the mention of Russell Group, Josie choked slightly. She coughed into her clenched fist softly. It was


    subtle, but a ss of warm water suddenly appeared beside her when she lifted her head.


    The hand holding it was well-defined.


    Morgan sat beside her and replied without any change in expression, ¡°I haven¡¯t met Mr. Russell yet, but


    I¡¯m sure it will be soon.¡± While saying that, he nudged the ss of water closer to her.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed.


    After a few rounds of drinks, Josie had almost finished eating. At that precise moment, a secretary


    pushed open the door and came in. He leaned close to the police chief and whispered something in the


    man¡¯s car. Thetter¡¯s face changed instantly, and he murmured. ¡°How did they find out about it?¡±


    ¡°Someone must have leaked our whereabouts.¡±


    The police chief didn¡¯t respond immediately but fell into a brief silent contemtion. The secretary


    added, ¡°Ultimately, she¡¯s a member of that family, so it wouldn¡¯t be appropriate to decline meeting her.¡±


    Still, he seemed conflicted. Morgan, sharp-eyed as ever, took the initiative to ask the police chief, ¡°Is


    there something bothering you?¡±


    The police chief clicked his tongue, somewhat helpless. ¡°In my position, there are always some favors


    that can¡¯t be refused.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t really care about it, but then her phone lit up with a message from Laura. It read: Are you at


    the archery club today?


    Her brows furrowed, and she replied: How did you know that?


    Laura texted: You were sitting by the door. I saw you when I passed by.


    Josie responded with a question mark.


    To that, Laura typed: I came with Summer.


    Following her words, Josie seemed to have sensed something. Just then, the police chief stood up and


    excused himself to attend to some matters.


    She clenched and unclenched her fist, then said to Morgan, ¡°I¡¯ve eaten overly much. I¡¯m going out for a


    walk.¡±


    Having said that, she pushed open the door and went out without waiting for his agreement.


    The archery range was located directly below the private room. She stepped out into the corridor and


    leaned against the railing to observe the situation below.


    Summer and Laura were both dressed smartly, toying with a bow and arrow at the moment. At the sight


    of the police chief striding over, Summer stepped forward and shook his hand. ¡°Say, what a


    coincidence. I initially didn¡¯t want to intrude on you. But I thought since I¡¯m here, it¡¯d be rude to not


    greet you.¡±


    The police chief stretched out a finger at her. ¡°You¡¯ve been a little rascal since young, Sum!¡±

 Chapter 853 In It Together

    Chapter 853 In It Together


    Smiling shyly, Summer said, ¡°I was ill recently, and Arnold didn¡¯t tell me when he found you. It was


    rather remiss of me, so consider this my way of making amends.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze fell on her wrist. The bandages had not been removed. She came to her senses quite


    quickly. Realizing that wallowing in despair does no good, she¡¯s out and about in no time.


    The police chief froze at the mention of Arnold, and his smile stiffened slightly. ¡°I couldn¡¯t carry out the


    favor Arnold asked of me because of certain reasons I can¡¯t reveal. I hope you and your husband won¡¯t


    hold it against me.¡±


    Summer did not seem upset at all. ¡°That¡¯s just part of your job. There¡¯s no need to apologize. You


    watched me grow up. Do you think Arnold is someone reliable?¡±


    Upon hearing her question, the police chief promptly nodded. ¡°Of course. He¡¯s responsible, and


    everyone in Wavery knows how he treats you.¡±


    ¡°He has been good to me, so I want to return the favor. I just feel sorry for him because he doesn¡¯t


    have many family members around him. My family is among the few he can actually talk to. If it were


    anyone else, I doubt they¡¯d be able to bear having their father locked up for over a decade, don¡¯t you


    think?¡± she replied, showing no sign of hostility.


    The police chief¡¯s forehead was already drenched in cold sweat. Summer had moved out of the Olsen


    Residence in protest and was nowining that Edward¡¯s sentence was too harsh, pressuring him


    at every turn.


    ¡°This¡­ His father has been charged with a serious crime, and his bail application was denied. There¡¯s


    nothing I can do about it,¡± the police chief exined.


    ¡°I suppose that¡¯s just the way things are. However, thex management in Wavery has meant that


    someone that


    age ended


    up getting beaten to such a state. It was a horrifying sight. As those closest to him, we¡¯re not very


    confident in the prison system¡­¡± It appeared she understood that she and Arnold were in it together,


    for better or worse. Hence, she had to take care of the matter for him.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that. Those who attacked Edward have been pped with additional


    charges. They¡¯re also being kept separate. Such an incident won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    ¡°Can you guarantee that? Can you promise no one will harm him again?¡± she pressed.


    He hesitated, indicating that the incident was presumably no coincidence.


    Her lips curved into a smile. ¡°It seems that¡¯s not possible. Thanksgiving is just around the corner. What


    harm would there be in letting him out to gather with family?¡±


    The police chief felt cornered. If he did not allow it, it would make him appear heartless, and he would


    be leaving the Olsens with nothing. Caught in a dilemma, he was momentarily at a loss for words.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°I heard you¡¯re here today for a meeting about an investment project. Are you so focused on foreign


    investors that you don¡¯t care about the local businesses in Wavery?¡± Summer remarked while raising


    her head and ncing in the direction of the private room, using her family to pressure him.


    Josie furrowed her brows. At that moment, Morgan moved to stand next to her without making a sound.


    ¡°It seems Ms. Olsen is about to get what she wants.¡±


    She turned to him, thinking otherwise. ¡°Not necessarily


    Letting out a sneer, she descended the stairs and raised her voice to say, ¡°Ms. Olsen is right.


    Thanksgiving is a time for reunion. Everyone looks forward to gathering with their families, not just


    you.¡±


    Her voice captured everyone¡¯s attention.


    Summer¡¯s expression shifted as she watched Josie walk over with a smile on her lips.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard vague rumors about Mr. Carter¡¯s father¡¯s case. It was a financial crime, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Josie


    asked, aiming her question at the police chief.


    ¡°Er, yes.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s not as it it¡¯s a major crime like murder or arson. Why can¡¯t he be released on bail?¡±


    Her tone was patient and persuasive, and the police chief answered, ¡°His crime¡­ is quite serious.¡±


    ¡°How serious?¡±


    ¡°Profiting from ndestine dealings in the stock market, making off with billions in assets.¡±

 Chapter 854 Asking A Favor For Scott

    Chapter 854 Asking A Favor For Scott


    While Summer struggled to hold back herughter, Josie pped a hand over her mouth in surprise


    and said, ¡°I think I heard of that. So, it was him! I remember¡­ There seemed to be quite a few suicide


    attempts that year in Wavery. Was it because of the bankruptcy that¡­¡±


    Seeing the realization dawn on Josie, the police chief nodded and added, ¡°Because of this incident,


    dozens of peoplemitted suicide that year, ruining countless families.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no different from murder and arson. In fact, it¡¯s much worse!¡± she eximed in shock. Turning


    to Summer, she continued, ¡°Ms. Olsen, I can¡¯t help but say this. At least he¡¯s still alive. Some people


    can¡¯t even dream of a family reunion as they are already dposing bodies. You should be content.¡±


    The corners of Summer¡¯s mouth twitched uncontrobly, and she gritted her teeth in sheer hatred. ¡°You


    have a point¡­¡±


    Josie wanted tough, but she held it in. ¡°However, sustaining such a serious injury while serving his


    sentence is truly unfortunate. How is he now?¡±


    ¡°He has received proper treatment has been received and is now in solitary confinement,¡± the police


    chief immediately said to Summer. It counted as a final act of leniency and also a form of assurance to


    her.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir,¡± she replied, her anger gradually subsiding. Then, she turned to Josie with a smile.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, ever since I¡¯ve known you, I notice you seem to love meddling in other people¡¯s affairs.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it. I¡¯m just naturally concerned about others,¡± Josie responded innocently.


    Laura, who was standing behind Summer, could hardly contain herughter.


    ¡°My advice to you is to mind your own business.¡± After saying that, Summer picked up her bag with a


    grim expression and walked out. Her footsteps echoed in the empty space, and anger radiated off of


    her.


    Laura hurried after her. Before leaving, she nced toward the second floor. The man stood there, tall


    and straight. He looked mean and hostile when he did not smile, but as he stared in Josie¡¯s direction,


    the amusement in his eyes was as clear as day.


    After they had left, the police chief piped up first and expressed his gratitude. ¡°Thank you for giving me


    an out earlier, Ms. Warren. Otherwise, I really don¡¯t know how I could¡¯ve refused.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s no big deal,¡± Josie responded, smiling. ¡°You¡¯re caught between Russell Group and the Olsen


    family, so I understand many things can be difficult for you.¡±


    He was surprised to witness how discerning and intelligent she was.


    Dexter had orchestrated Edward¡¯s mishap in prison, and his reluctance to help the Olsen family


    indicated he had taken sides. Josie had figured that out, which was why she intervened.


    ¡°Forgive me for being presumptuous. I hope you won¡¯t mind if I ask for a favor.¡±


    Registering her words, the police chief pped his thigh andughed. ¡°You, youngdy, are truly


    clever. Go on. What do you want?¡±


    I nearly forgot she¡¯s Dexter¡¯s ex-wife and now hasplicated rtionships with various people. She


    wouldn¡¯t have made it this far if she didn¡¯t have brains.


    ¡°My request should be easier to fulfill than Ms. Olsen¡¯s, and it shouldn¡¯t put you in a difficult position.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s hear it, then.¡±


    After a brief silence, she said, ¡°There¡¯s a policeman named Scott Buncho in Wavery¡¯s police


    department. He has been temporarily transferred to the Traffic Division, and I¡¯d like to ask that you


    reinstate him to his original position so he can continue handling criminal investigations.¡±


    His frown deepened when he heard that. ¡°You know Scott?¡±


    ¡°He handled my case before. He¡¯s a good cop,¡± she said, still hoping he could continue investigating


    her father¡¯s disappearance as he had to have the most leads.


    ¡°Scott¡­ He did face some difficulties recently, which led to his demotion. However, he was reinstated


    to his original position a couple of days ago and is still in the Criminal Investigation Division,¡± said the


    police chief.


    Josie was astonished. ¡°He has been reinstated?¡±


    ¡°Yes. That¡¯s only natural since the investigation into him has ended. You¡¯ve really gotten a favor for free


    this time.¡±

 Chapter 855 Unforgiving Of Abandonment

    Chapter 855 Unforgiving Of Abandonment


    Josie chuckled lightly. ¡°It¡¯s not a waste. Knowing he¡¯s fine puts my mind at ease.¡±


    The dinner had ended, and the leaders were seen off one after another. It was a smashing sess


    that day.


    As night fell, Josie stood by the roadside and watched as the cars drove away, her face stiff from


    smiling. Angel cautiously asked, ¡°Shall we leave as well, Ms. Jo?


    Josie put her smile away. ¡°You go first.¡±


    Angel hesitated for a moment. At that precise moment, a cold male voice came from behind her. ¡°Drive


    her home, Ryan.¡±


    The young man named Ryan Garcia had been following around Morgan all day. They had also seen


    him. before in Rivodia. As such, he must be the man¡¯s secretary.


    Ryan nodded. ¡°Contact me when you¡¯re leaving. I¡¯lle and pick you up!


    After he had said that, he walked over to Angel and gestured for her to go before him. Angel was


    somewhat worried about Josic, constantly looking back with every step. But in the end, she still got into


    the car.


    When everyone had left. Josie turned around and stalked over to Morgan. She mmed the bag she


    was holding at him. ¡°What on earth are you doing here in Wavery?¡±


    She was truly angry, holding her temper back all night before finally exploding.


    They were at a roadside bustling with traffic, Lost in the crowd, they appeared just like an ordinary


    couple.


    Morgan grasped her hand. ¡°I studied in Wavery for four years. So, it¡¯s somewhat of a hometown to me.


    Is there a problem with me contributing to its development?¡±


    ¡°Is your contribution needed?¡±


    ¡°The higher-ups have just agreed to it earlier.


    Left with no retort, Josie broke free from his grasp. ¡°Why is it four years? Wasn¡¯t it three?¡±


    She remembered that Morganpleted his university courses in just two years.


    ¡°I spent two years as a graduate student in Wavery.¡± A half-smile bloomed on Morgan¡¯s face. ¡°And it


    was in the same year that I met you.¡±


    When he said that, Josie subconsciously recalled the scenery that year at Willowbrook Valley when


    peach. blossoms were in full bloom.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°Only those who are not doing well would miss the past.¡±


    After saying that, she expected Morgan to riposte her. But unexpectedly, he suddenly reached out and


    used the chain of her bag to draw her closer to him before hugging her tightly. ¡°I¡¯m not doing well.¡±


    Stiffening entirely, she quickly began to struggle frantically. ¡°Morgan!¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    ¡°Thus, I miss you. I can¡¯t do without you.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t miss you!¡± Josie yelled, pushing him away. ¡°As I¡¯ve said, our past is a disgrace to me!¡±


    s eyes gilslened with unshed tears. Standing across from her, he looked at her almost pleadingly. guilt


    radiating off him.


    ¡°In my life, countless people abandoned me. I thought you wouldn¡¯t, but you did.¡±


    ¡°I was young then! And what about Dexter? He abandoned you just the same. Will you not forgive him


    either?¡± Morgan blurted.


    At the mention of Dexter, Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. But still, she remained steadfast and shook her


    head.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s lips parted a fraction.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t go back even to a man I was married to, let alone you.¡±


    Josie averted her gaze before adding, ¡°Spare me, please.¡±


    After she had finished speaking, she left immediately without a backward nce.


    It felt as though something was pressing down on her, making it hard to breathe.


    Ever since she discovered the secret of her background, her fear of abandonment and loneliness only


    intensified. She had repeated nightmares, fearful that the Olsen family would not ept her when they


    learned of her true identity one day.


    Under the mounting pressure, she increasingly felt that Morgan¡¯s abandonment back then was an


    unforgivable sin.


    Morgan stood rooted to the spot for a long time. Even after Josie had disappeared from sight, he


    remained. still like a statue.


    The only difference was that the vulnerability in his eyes gradually turned into determination.


    As he watched Josie, someone else likewise had her eyes fixed on him.


    In a car across the street, its window was half down. The woman¡¯s eyes held a simr mix of love and


    despair.

 Chapter 856 Eavesdropping Through The Phone

    Chapter 856 Eavesdropping Through The Phone


    When Josie woke up the next day, she was gued by a splitting headache.


    The instant she unlocked her phone, a pile of missed calls and messages grected her. Her brows


    furrowed when she saw a news notification with a photo of her and Morgan, caught in a seemingly


    intimate tug-of- war by the street.


    She nearly fainted at the sight of it. The journalist also spun an intimate story, saying they embraced


    each other by the street as their love overflowed.


    Words cluded her.


    I was having a row with him! Are journalists¡¯ eyesight that bad these days?


    Josie was wholly frustrated. Without even looking at those messages, she already knew who they were


    from.


    In the afternoon, Mallory sat in her sunlit office. Scrolling through her phone, she doubled over in


    laughter. ¡°The photo turned out pretty well, capturing the intimate atmosphere perfectly.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t be bothered to move. ¡°I¡¯m not a celebrity. Why are there always paparazzi following me?¡±


    ¡°Could it be that they were following Morgan? The visit of Bastille Group¡¯s CEO to Wavery to invest is


    big news. It¡¯ll be reported on TV in the next couple of days, so many people must be keeping an eye on


    him.¡±


    Mallory switched off her phone before adding. ¡°They probably didn¡¯t expect that they¡¯d end up writing


    entertainment gossip when they originally wanted financial news. I guess you¡¯ve saved the day in a


    roundabout way.¡±


    Josie was in a dilemma.


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m more interested in Dexter¡¯s reaction.¡±


    In an instant, her headache intensified. The person Dexter detests most is Morgan. If he were to learn


    about this, I can¡¯t imagine what he would do to me.


    At that precise moment, Angel knocked on the office door. ¡°Ms. Jo, there¡¯s a parcel for you.¡±


    Josie took it and opened it. To her surprise, it was a peach blossom inside.


    She was promptly dumbfounded.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost autumn now. Where did this peach blossome from?¡± Mallory eximed in surprise.


    Frowning, Josie nced at the sender¡¯s phone number on the parcel. Without hesitation, she took out


    his phone and ced the call. After three rings, the call connected.


    Before she could speak, a man¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Guess where I am.¡±


    Josie said nothing.


    Since she remained silent, Morgan continued, ¡°Russell Group¡¯s conference room.¡±


    Still, Josie held her tongue.


    ¡°Dexter will be meeting me soon. Would you like to listen in on the meeting?¡±


    Josie immediately wanted to hang up, but reason stopped her. Instead, she massaged her temples.


    There was silence for a minute on the other end of the phone. Soon, sounds of steady footsteps drifted.


    out. Dexter¡¯s voice was exceedingly distinctive, tinged with a hint of richness and huskiness. ¡°Mr.


    Bastille.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we meet again.¡±


    Dexter did not respond to that but took a seat right away. Both parties had discussed the details of their


    coboration, only sitting down with each other when it seemed that it was a done deal with no room for


    an exit.


    In that final stage, Morgan voluntarily asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask me why I chose to invest in this


    project, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Dexter stared at him with ebony eyes and chuckled lightly. ¡°You¡¯re no longer satisfied in Rivodia and


    want to have a share of the pie in Wavery, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    Morgan chuckled as well. ¡°Actually, the sess or failure of this project won¡¯t be of much help to


    Bastille Group. I came here for a person. Oh yes, you know her too. Right here in this conference


    room, she sat beside you previously and lent me a hand.¡±


    It was a clear provocation.


    Listening on the other end of the phone, Josie broke out in a cold sweat on Morgan¡¯s behalf.


    A hint of menace shed in Dexter¡¯s eyes, but it quickly disappeared. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s why I made sure


    she¡¯s no longer by my side.¡±


    After saying that, he leaned back in his seat and looked at Morgan smilingly. ¡°Have you ever heard the


    story of The Farmer and the Viper, Mr. Bastille?¡±


    Morgan quirked a brow. ¡°It¡¯s just a viper. I have the ability to control it.¡±


    Indifferent, Dexter tapped the tip of his pen against the table. ¡°I would remind you not to undertake


    uncertain endeavors, Mr. Bastille. If you decide to do something, do it thoroughly. Otherwise, it¡¯s easy


    for others to take your ce.¡±N?velDrama.Org content.

 Chapter 857 All Sent To Prison

    Chapter 857 All Sent To Prison


    Morgan¡¯s expression was profoundly serious as he quickly responded, ¡°It seems Mr. Russell hasn¡¯t


    seen today¡¯s news. Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t be so confident.


    The moment those words were spoken, Larry, who was standing behind Dexter, could not help but feel


    guilty.


    A fleeting shadow of gloom passed over Dexter¡¯s brow. ¡°Mr. Bastille, you always have a habit of


    speaking too soon.¡±


    His long legs were crossed, and his posture was surprisingly rxed. ¡°Just like when you left the


    country, there was a power struggle within the Bastille family. Your mother insisted that you would be


    the one to take charge of the Bastille family. And what happened? You were forced to live abroad for


    many years, only to wait until today? Your mother¡¯s already sixty-five this year, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    To outsiders, Dexter often appeared aloof yet gentle. However, once provoked, his cold viciousness far


    exceeded that of Morgan.


    Morgan¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Mr. Russell, your investigation is really thorough. I hope there are no


    members of the Russell family within the Bastille family.¡±


    Only those on the inside knew about the internal strife within the Bastille family years ago.


    Dexter justughed. ¡°I look forward to you finding it out, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    With official matters settled, every word spoken now was personal.


    In fact, as the most prominent groups in the two cities, Russell Group and Bastille Group could have


    potentially coborated. However, one of Morgan¡¯s uncles from the Bastille family caused chaos and


    schemed to get the energetic Morgan abroad. Consequently, Dexter missed the opportunity to connect.


    with him.


    They never expected to have a chance to cross swords again.


    ¡°Though the Bastille family was in chaos, I¡¯ve already calmed everything. What about the Russell


    family? Mr. Russell, you were able to send your own uncle to prison. Your methods are more ruthless


    than mine.¡± Morgan idly tapped on the table. ¡°But aside from one uncle, how many others have you not


    dealt with? Are the directors of Russell Group behaving themselves?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Naturally, Dexter knew that Morgan was implying something.


    He chuckled lightly. ¡°Even if we send them all to prison, what difference does it make?¡±


    His casual remark stirred a wave of emotion in Morgan¡¯s eyes.


    That was because the other party did not seem to be joking, but he could actually pull it off.


    Dexter¡¯s methods were ruthless, and Morgan had heard of it. He quickly realized something. ¡°I heard


    that the Russell family is about to have a marriage alliance with the Olsen family. With this kind of


    confidence, it¡¯s indeed understandable.¡±


    That crucial sentence had unknowingly struck a chord in someone¡¯s heart.


    Dexter maintained a calm expression. ¡°Instead of worrying about my personal affairs, Mr. Bastille,


    perhaps you should focus on your own.¡±


    After saying that, he stood up and left the conference room apanied by his subordinates.


    Ryan, looking surprised, asked Morgan, ¡°What does he mean?¡±


    Morgan just stared at the retreating figure of Dexter with his brows furrowed. He is a formidable


    opponent.


    Upon entering the office, Larry closely followed the man and carefully chose his words. ¡°There¡¯s a


    piece of gossip about Morgan today, but I don¡¯t dare to show it to you.¡±


    The moment those words were spoken, it was clear that a certain person was also involved in the


    gossip.


    Dexter loosened his tie and patted hisrge hand on Larry¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you? Everything


    about. him needs to be reported to me.¡±


    This action seemed ordinary, yet the force behind it was so intense that it made Larry¡¯s entire arm ache


    as if his bones were throbbing in pain.


    Bearing the pain, he said, ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I was just worried that you would be upset over someone like


    Morgan. It¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    ¡°News.¡± Dexter¡¯s expression waspletely filled with hostility.


    Larry struggled to pull out his phone, found the piece of news, and ced it in front of Dexter.


    The headline was eye-catching, and so was the photo.


    Josie¡¯s figure was slender and graceful, and she appeared even more charming from the hidden


    camera¡¯s angle. Her delicate waist, which he had caressed countless times, was now under the firm


    grasp of Morgan¡¯s hand.


    Dexter closed his eyes, and a destructive temper was brewing within him.

 Chapter 858 Put Morgan In His Place

    Chapter 858 Put Morgan In His ce


    He tossed the phone back to Larry and instructed coldly. ¡°Release the scandal about Bastille Group¡¯s.


    senior executives that we¡¯ve been holding back.¡±


    Larry was taken aback. ¡°But¡­ But that¡¯s the leverage we worked so hard to get. Weren¡¯t we supposed


    to save it forter?¡±


    He had not expected that Dexter would go to such lengths just because of a single photo of Josie.


    ¡°Also¡­ I heard that Morgan is here to attract investment to Wavery. If that¡¯s the case, will we end up


    upsetting those at the top?¡±


    ¡°You always talk too much when you shouldn¡¯t.¡± Dexter threw himself onto the couch. A few buttons of


    his shirt were undone, revealing a glimpse of his firm chest. He closed his eyes. There was nowhere to


    vent his pent-up frustration.


    Larry did not dare to stay any longer.


    Morgan had just stepped out of Russell Group when he pulled out his phone from his pocket. The call


    was still connected.


    ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    There was silence for half a minute on the other end. The voice sounded somewhat weary. ¡°Was it


    because of the Bastille family that you left Wavery?¡±


    That was something that Morgan had never spoken about.


    ¡°Yes, there was internal strife within the Bastille family with several major forces at odds. My mother


    didn¡¯t have the power topete, so she had to ensure my safety first.¡± Morgan recalled those difficult


    days. Perhaps to outsiders, he always seemed carefree and unrestrained.


    Josie found it somewhat amusing. The heartlessness she had imagined turned out to be so


    melodramatic.


    ¡°In the following years, I wasying low.¡± That was why everything went so smoothly when he returned


    to his homnd.


    Josie let out a coldugh. ¡°Instead of rushing back to Rivodia after your return, you came to Wavery


    and yed psychologist for my friend for several months. Morgan, you¡¯re really something.¡±


    The sharp angles of his face brightened with a smile. ¡°This proves that you are more important than the


    Bastille family.¡±


    He said it casually, but Josie did not believe him.


    The bodyguard opened the car door, and Morgan got in. He switched his phone to his other hand and


    said, ¡°But you don¡¯t have to me yourself. You could say that family issues were a catalyst for my


    departure, but they weren¡¯t the main reason.¡±


    ¡°I understand. The main reason is that you don¡¯t want to get entangled with me,¡± Josie said with equal


    rity.


    ¡°No matter what you think, Josic, if it wasn¡¯t for my family, I might not have left you behind.¡±


    The phone was silent. Only the sound of the car moving could be heard.


    Josie did not continue with the conversation.


    Although she was skeptical, his reason indeed brought some bnce to Josie¡¯s heart. It seemed that


    he had not simply abandoned her. He had his own difficulties even if it was only a part of it.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Right now, she became hesitant even after making the firm decision the night before..


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you talking?¡± Morgan asked. At that moment, Ryan passed him a phone from the front and


    whispered, ¡°Something¡¯s wrong, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    Morgan furrowed his brows but still waited for Josie¡¯s response.


    ¡°Honestly, I could have told you that I left home all those years ago due to family issues and hoped to


    gain your sympathy. But I didn¡¯t. Doesn¡¯t that prove that I¡¯m genuinely honest?¡±


    His joking remark did indeed lighten Josie¡¯s mood. ¡°Shameless.¡±


    Hearing theughter in her words, Morgan also began to smile. He took Ryan¡¯s phone, and with just


    one nce, his smile froze.


    ¡°D*mn.¡±


    Josie¡¯s temper red up again. ¡°I insult you once, and you retort. Morgan, you haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Morgan snorted coldly, ¡°I was cursing Dexter. He sure reacted quickly.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he immediately hung up the phone and attended to his work.


    Just moments ago, a scandal involving the top brass of Bastille Group was suddenly exposed online. It


    epassed issues rted to family and finance. The whistleblower¡¯s letter had already been


    delivered to the media, the Department of Justice, and the Tax Bureau.


    Public opinion erupted instantly, and the market value of Bastille Group fell by several hundred million


    in the blink of an eye.

 Chapter 859 Put On The Show He Like

    Chapter 859 Put On The Show He Like


    Josie was still unaware of it. She put her phone away and faced Mallory¡¯s curiosity with a weary


    expression. ¡°Let me guess, it¡¯s the male lead from yesterday¡¯s rumor.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong.¡± Josie walked up to the floor-to-ceiling window and overlooked the vast multitude of


    beings below. ¡°It¡¯s my future pawn.¡±


    The ss reflected her fairplexi¨®n. Though it seemed immacte, it was stone cold, almost as if


    she already had things nned out.


    ¡°I have some connections with the media. I¡¯ll help inform them to try and minimize negative press about


    you.¡±


    Josie, however, objected to it. ¡°No. Being infamous is still considered famous. I need somesting


    poprity.¡±


    Mallory froze.


    In the afternoon, because of a project¡¯s cash flow, the bank called Josie, requesting her to head down


    to sort things out.


    Since the bank was nearby and within walking distance, she headed over without thinking much about


    it While waiting to deal with the matter, she idly yed with her phone and stumbled upon Bastille


    Group¡¯s scandal.


    So that¡¯s what Morgan is talking about.


    An apologetic look crossed the staff member¡¯s face upon hearing her name. ¡°I don¡¯t have the authority


    to do that. Only the director of a bank has. Let me give him a call.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. She had handled many such matters, but she had never encountered one


    that required the director of a bank to do it personally.


    After the call, the staff member escorted her to the elevator to head upstairs.


    The elevator doors slid open. As Josie stepped in, she felt a sense of foreboding crept up within her.


    Sure enough, the man sitting in the main seat and busy dealing with work was none other than


    Zachariah, who had perpetually been making things difficult for her.


    Oh yes, I almost forgot that he¡¯s the director of this bank.


    Upon seeing her, Zachariah jokingly said, ¡°What an unexpected guest! I¡¯m honored to have Ms. Warren


    grace us with her presence.¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    Zachariah unbuttoned his shirt cuffs and rolled them up his arms. ¡°Fancy a cup of tea? You don¡¯t have


    a choice, though; I only have chamomile tea in my office.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face darkened.


    ¡°Save it for yourself.¡± With that said, she turned to leave.


    Zachariah blocked her path. The dimples by the corners of his lips made him look rather kind and


    innocent. ¡°You¡¯re leaving so soon? Are you not going to finish what you have to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll change to another bank and won¡¯t trouble you, Mr. Shaw.¡±


    ¡°But what if I give a heads-up to other banks? What will you do then?¡±Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    The way he asked the question almost seemed like he was being genuinely curious. Yet, only Josie


    knew how sarcastic he actually was.


    ¡°Go ahead and say what you want to say, Mr. Shaw.¡± Josie squeezed out a smile.


    Zachariah clicked his tongue. ¡°Why are you so sensitive? But I do have a piece of advice for you. Only


    take on as much as you can handle. Don¡¯t get burnt from ying with fire. Remember, it¡¯s your own life


    at stake.¡±


    Josie could sense the malice and caution in those words.


    Zachariah was talking about Morgan¡¯s arrival to attract investment to Wavery. It was a move that even


    the higher-ups strongly valued, and having been ruined just like that by an ill-tempered man, Zachariah


    reckoned it would surely bring trouble in the future.


    And from Zachariah¡¯s standpoint, the source of all these troubles was none other than Josie.


    The more Josie looked at him, the more annoyed she became. ¡°I think you should know him better than


    i do after all these years. Whatever he wants to do, it¡¯s only a matter of time; influence is never a factor.


    I won¡¯t be able to shoulder such an usation.¡±


    What she said was true. Dexter was someone who would never make a losing deal. The fact that he


    dared do that only meant that he had already nned his way out.


    Zachariah rested one hand on the nt shelf. ¡°You seem to know him quite well. It¡¯s just that I once


    thought that you¡¯re someone with sincerity. But who knows, you¡¯re aplete and utter venomous


    person who¡¯s only good at putting on a show,¡±


    ¡°But the show I put on is one that he enjoys.¡± Josiezily lifted her eyelids and tidied her hair. She was


    running out of patience.

 Chapter 860 Flying Into A Rage

    Chapter 860 Flying Into A Rage


    She was ready to leave, but Zachariah stopped her again. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll leave.¡±


    Surprise inundated her. She only turned around after the door closed, albeit still unable to reel in from


    the shock.


    Zachariah¡¯s lounge door was left ajar. A dark silhouette stood there, gazing at her dearly and listlessly


    as if just woken up from sleep.


    Dexterpressed his thin lips tightly. He was radiating a gloomy aura from head to toe, and his gaze


    was icy cold, and his mere appearance could send chills down anyone¡¯s spine.


    Unexpectedly running into him, Josie felt a pang of uneasiness, and instinctively, she took several


    steps back. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    He walked back into the lounge and uttered, ¡°Come in


    Josie did not want to follow. s, she pulled the door handle and found that Zachariah had locked it.


    She felt her scalp prickle with unease. Without a choice, she could only do as told.


    The moment she stepped near the man, she felt an oppressive pressure enveloping her.


    ¡°Have you been here all along?¡± Josie stood a few inches away from him, her eyes fixed on the


    unfinished wine on the table.


    Before there was a response, she felt herself being swept off the ground. She was picked up on her


    waist and forcefully pinned on the man¡¯sp, her eyes lifting to meet his.


    Josie dodged on reflex, seemingly feeling somewhat ufortable. ¡°You can do it even in someone


    else¡¯s lounge? You aren¡¯t picky at all, huh?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips remained pursed. His hand, which was grabbing onto her slender waist, gradually slid


    upward to her lips. He delicately traced it and broke into a coldugh. ¡°This mouth of yours is pretty


    impressive.¡±


    Josie vaguely felt something off with him today, almost as if he was on the verge of flying into a rage.


    The man applied even more force, but she tilted her head to dodge him. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you? I


    haven¡¯t even seen you recently.¡±


    She could not quite wrap her head around why Dexter was making a fuss.


    The smile on the man¡¯s lips, however, grew even colder. ¡°You didn¡¯t see me, but you did see other


    men.¡±


    As soon as those words fell, Josie felt a bolt of fury coursing through her entire body, and she grabbed


    his hand wrist to stop his actions. ¡°We¡¯re already divorced, I don¡¯t need your permission to meet


    anyone.¡±


    ¡°Morgan loves you very much,¡± Dexter concluded. Her strength was no match for his. He wrapped his


    hand around her neck, strangling her while kissing her. Do you want to get back together with him?¡±


    As he spoke, he suddenly parted his lips and bit her, seemingly venting his frustration.


    Wincing in pain, Josie tried to push him away. However, he deepened the kiss and sucked the droplets


    of blood. A metallic taste of fresh blood permeated their mouths.


    She was personally trained by him. At this point, she felt her whole body turn weak, and her mind went


    nk for a few seconds. The atmosphere in the room gradually heated up and grew slightly tensed.


    ¡°Dexter-¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I make it clear? If you want to be with him, I¡¯ll ensure he¡¯ll get an extra child.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice was deep and maic, yet it carried a trace of deadly intent.


    Josie felt a chill run through her body. She knew well that he was not joking.


    Dexter¡¯s hand continued wandering further down to prove his words.


    Josie snapped back to reality and blocked his hand. ¡°No, not today.¡±


    Having met an obstacle, he retracted his hand. Nheless, he had no intention of letting her off.


    Staring at her bright red lips, he said, ¡°Another way, then.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless. Sending him to death was all she could think of at that moment.


    Her body began trembling involuntarily, ¡°I don¡¯t want to!¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Dexter¡¯s sexual urge spiked, and he tightened his grip on her neck. ¡°I thought you love putting on a


    show that I like? Why don¡¯t you want to do it now?¡±


    He heard that conversation earlier, huh?


    Dexter suddenly loosened his grip. Josie fell onto the soft carpet, looking utterly pathetic.


    As he sat on the sofa, his posture was akin to a proud and cold-blooded lion, as if he was observing a


    mere ything.


    ¡°Have you forgotten what I taught you?¡±

 Chapter 861

    Chapter 861


    Josie¡¯s helplessness still lingered, and she couldn¡¯t believe Dexter would humiliate her like that.


    Still, she shook her head and used herst bit of strength to say, ¡°I don¡¯t like it. Nor am I willing to do it.¡±


    Dexter looked at her, his eyes devoid of warmth. Whenever he recalled the picture of her with another.


    man, the agitation deep within him roiled relentlessly, almost pushing him to the brink of endurance.


    He leaned down and grasped the back of her neck, forcing her closer to him. ¡°But I like it.¡±


    When he was not in the mood to talk nicely, he was no different from a frivolous man who regarded the


    world with disdain. He would have no qualms about causing chaos and destruction to obtain something


    he desired.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Kneeling on the ground, Josie clutched at his pants tightly, yet the expensive fabric barely wrinkled.


    ¡°You lured me here with your tricks just for this?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t affirm or deny it. ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you¡¯re best at?¡±


    It was a tant insult. Surprisingly, Josie didn¡¯t get angry. She stopped struggling, her fair and delicate


    handnding on his silver belt. With a light press on the buckle, a soft click sounded.


    The man¡¯s desire zed all the hotter.


    Josie continued doing it all with her face devoid of expression. Just when she was about to unfasten his


    belt, a hand suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    Dexter¡¯s expression darkened further. ¡°You¡¯re quite obedient, doing whatever I ask. Would you do the


    same for someone else?¡±


    The mere thought of it ignited an uncontroble urge to kill someone within him.


    Josie calmly raised her eyes. ¡°Wasn¡¯t it you who forced me to do this?¡±


    The atmosphere became even more oppressive to the point of suffocating. Dexter¡¯s mood was a mix of


    gloom and frustration, yet she continued, ¡°Isn¡¯t what you enjoy most watching me trapped in the golden


    cage you¡¯ve created, crashing around until I¡¯m battered and bloodied but forever under your control?


    Does that make you feel good, Dexter?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed. Suddenly, a smile showed on his face, devoid of any warmth. ¡°Yeah, I


    suppose.¡± Josie was taken aback.


    She had never been as aware of the gap between them as she was at that moment. He grew up


    surrounded by riches and had always been the dominant one. Conversely, she was ustomed to a


    busy life, forever working for others.


    The gap between them had long since widened into a gulf when she went missing.


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°Why¡­ have you changed into such a person, Dexter?¡±


    Even she didn¡¯t know whether her sudden remark was referring to the boy she grew up with or the man


    she came to know after marriage.


    Dexter faltered slightly. Her words struck him right in the heart, and her sorrowful expression almost


    plunged him into a trance.


    The location of Zachariah¡¯s lounge was excellent. Although the view wasn¡¯t expansive, it offered great.


    privacy.


    Suddenly, a storm assailed the world out there. The darkness outside made the room grow even


    dimmer and the atmosphere increasingly solemn and ambiguous.


    Josie curled up in a corner, watching the heavy raindrops pelt against the window.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of punishment when you¡¯ve dealt the higher-ups of Wavery a p in the face?¡±


    The sound of a lighter flicking to life was particrly noticeable in the pitch-ck surroundings. Dexter


    cupped the me and lit a cigarette.


    ¡°Wavery¡¯s development doesn¡¯t need his meddling.¡±


    He exhaled a puff of smoke, his every word radiating arrogance and pride. It seemed he was fully


    prepared for the consequences.


    Josie had no interest in joining their fight. Her mind was fully upied with thoughts of escaping


    When the man started to y, he wouldn¡¯t let her go until he was fully satisfied.


    ¡°Why, you feel bad for him?¡± Dexter tilted his head slightly, looking down at her condescendingly.


    Josie retorted, ¡°Who do you mean¡­¡±


    At the end of her utterance, understanding suddenly dawned upon her. She looked at him with her


    brows knitted together. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re jealous, Dexter?¡±


    Morgan would never tell Dexter about the phone call. Thus, there was only one reason for his sudden


    outburst of anger-the scandal.

 Chapter 862 Do Not Marry Her

    Chapter 862 Do Not Marry Her


    Dexter continued to puff on his cigarette, his smile somewhat chilling. ¡°Actually, perhaps I should grant


    you your wish.¡±


    Josie felt a chill running down her spine.


    In the next second, Dexter again gripped the back of her neck and drew her close as he did previously.


    But this time, he didn¡¯t kiss her. Instead, he brought the cigarette he had smoked before her, forcing her


    to ce it between her lips.


    Josie was on the verge of losing her mind.


    The cigarette Dexter smoked was exceedingly strong, making Josie choke. Her throat stung, and she


    coughed so violently that she couldn¡¯t catch her breath. Tears welled up in her eyes. Nheless, her


    graceful figure was still evident in her movements.


    Dexter was also feeling difited at the sight. ¡°Why have you stopped?¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected the scoundrel to remain hung up on that matter. Her soft and delicate hand


    rested against his leg, catching her in a dilemma of whether to continue.


    ¡°Won¡¯t Liana be upset if we do this?¡± Josie reminded, tilted her head back.


    As she remained still, Dexter¡¯s desire was in limbo. The cigarette was nearly burnt down to his


    fingertips. He frowned. ¡°She won¡¯t know.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Is it that so? Or will she still be fine even if she knows?¡± Crouched between his legs. Josie softened


    her posture. ¡°Since she likes you so much, will she be okay with you keeping me as a mistress even


    after you¡¯re married?¡±


    That remark was overly callous, and a chill shed in Dexter¡¯s eyes. ¡°You¡¯re feeling me out.¡±


    Josie readily admitted to it. ¡°There¡¯s no need to do so. It¡¯smon knowledge that the Russell family is


    set to form a marriage alliance with the Olsen family.¡±


    Dexter neither affirmed nor denied it. He snubbed out his cigarette. ¡°You¡¯re different from her.¡±


    ¡°What makes us different?¡± Josie asked, probing further. ¡°Is it just because she¡¯s the daughter of an


    elite family while I¡¯m just an ordinary person?¡±


    Dexter stared at her, then scoffed, ¡°If so, you¡¯re quite capable for an ordinary person.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze was captivating. ¡°Have you bedded her?¡±


    She glimpsed the sudden stiffening of his expression


    ¡°You did?¡± Undeniably, Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she asked that question.


    However, Dexter quickly denied it. ¡°No.¡±


    She was stunned for a moment. From his expression, she could tell that he wasn¡¯t lying. A subtle


    feeling sparked to life within her. ¡°So, you¡¯ve remained chaste for me, Mr. Russell.¡±


    with that answer, she still pretended otherwise. Dexter frowned. He lifted her onto forcefully holding her


    down.


    In spite of the constant conflicts, Josie always knew that she could never truly hate the man. He was


    not only her childhood ymate but also her first love.


    At that moment, she tilted her head back slightly with her neck subtly elongated, exuding an


    indescribable.


    Dexter toyed with her earlobe absentmindedly. ¡°Sever all ties with Morgan.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond to that. ¡°Then, you¡¯re not to marry Liana.¡±


    As soon as she said that, she distinctly sensed him stilling in his movements. In a sh, a wave of


    despair flooded her. But she suppressed it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t marry her, and I¡¯ll cut ties with Morgan.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes that were as dark as night betrayed no emotion. He didn¡¯t respond to that.


    That could almost be considered an answer.


    ¡°Even you need a marriage alliance?¡± Josie sneered, smirking. ¡°I thought you¡¯re invincible, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter dropped his hold on her,pletely losing all interest. ¡°Josie, don¡¯t take advantage of the little


    patience I have for you. It will only disgust me.¡±


    Josiey motionless, staring nkly at the ceiling.


    ¡°If you get married, I¡¯ll disappearpletely.¡±


    In this world, there were few who dared to threaten Dexter. Josie was one of them.


    He took in her words. Then, he bent down and picked his belt up before walking out with it in his hand.


    ¡°Try it, then.¡±


    It was a light and brief remark yet carried significant weight.

 Chapter 863 Let Her Plagiarize

    Chapter 863 Let Her giarize


    The crisis of Bastille Groupsted for three days


    Josie finally found some peace. She heard that Morgan bad flown back to Rivoria personally to devise


    a public rtions n for the Bastille Group, which barely managed to calm things down


    However, the losses were irreparable, totaling an estimated several billion


    This was Dexter¡¯s way of showing his authority to Morgan when he arrived in Wavery


    A weekter, the wounds on Josie¡¯s lips healed, and she finally received thetest news from Justin


    The photos were sent by courier Over the phone, Justin eximed in anger. That scoundrel


    Josie opened the package and saw the photos of Dexter holding Heather¡¯s hand while they attended


    an art exhibition together.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    There was no attempt to hide their rtionship, and their faces were highly recognizable. It was normal


    for them to get photographed.


    Justin wasn¡¯t the only one who saw it. The media also captured the moment, and spections arose


    about Dexter possibly getting married again.


    Heather was the epitome of a wless socialite, both in her background and upbringing, and she


    received numerous well-wishes from people.


    n contrast, Josie, the ex-wife who had done such wicked deeds, was nothing short of a cautionary tale.


    is she continued to go through the stuff, she came across information about a ne ticket. ¡°Heather


    flew broad?¡±


    Yes, to Japrium, just for two days, I wonder what she¡¯s doing there,¡± Justin mused. His abilities were


    mited.


    sie went back to scrutinizing those photos and carefullypared them to Heather¡¯s own older photos.


    here seemed to be some subtle differences in her face.


    thers wouldn¡¯t notice, but Josie could because the face Heather had imitated was none other than her


    Vn.


    ie sneered, thinking that Heather¡¯s trip to Japrium was likely for stic surgery or some sort of facial


    pair.


    vo days wouldn¡¯t be enough for the former, so thetter was more likely.


    :ather had indeed gone to great lengths to make sure each step was carefully nned.


    ie felt fortunate that she hadn¡¯t been exposed and remained hidden in the shadows. Otherwise, victory


    ght not have been certain.


    ow is she progressing with her painting lessons?¡±


    ot bad. Oh, there were some of her works in the art exhibition they attended,¡± Justin reminded her.


    ie found it. It was a painting of a river, with a slightly amateurish touch to the technique. However, she


    |||


    1/2


    could sense a different style in it. Soon, she reached a conclusion, ¡°She giarized t


    Justin was astonished.


    ¡°She giarized half of another painting with some modifications. The original painting must be quite


    niche, so it hasn¡¯t been recognized¡±


    ¡°What does this mean¡­¡±


    Josie fell silent for a moment, pacing around her disheveled room, her mind racing.


    Why is Heather so impatient? Does she want to gain the trust of udia and Dexter? But there is no


    need to take the risk of exhibiting the giarized work unless she is in dire straits. Or perhaps, her


    ambitions are greater? What does she hope to achieve?


    Josie rubbed her sore neck and had an idea. ¡°Check if there¡¯s arge art exhibition in Wavery in the


    near future.¡±


    Justin quickly found out the information she wanted. ¡°Yes, there is one in two weeks, and it¡¯s sponsored


    by the Olsen family.¡±


    She immediately understood.


    The Olsen family was promoting Heather, building a better reputation for her.


    ¡°Sis, should we continue to keep an eye on her?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Should we expose her for giarism? It¡¯s good leverage.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Josie interjected swiftly, her heart racing. ¡°Let her persist, but it¡¯s crucial that she


    copies, exactly what I intend for her to giarize.¡±


    Justin didn¡¯t quite understand, sensing that Josie¡¯s approach to Heather wasn¡¯t as straightforward as


    dealing with a romantic rival.


    ¡°I¡¯ll handle it. Just brief me on her itinerary.¡±


    Tomorrow, Heather would be attending a fashion show as a socialite.


    Josie managed to get Mallory to get her a ticket.

 Chapter 864 Watching The Show

    Chapter 864 Watching The Show


    She was now the owner of apany, so it was entirely reasonable for her to attend such an event,


    and no one would find it strange


    When Josie arrived, the fashion show had already begup She walked in holding a purse and a


    magazine. sitting up straight in the front row, drawing the attention of the fashion and entertainment


    elite seated around her.


    Sometimes at fashion shows, people weren¡¯t so much for used on the runway but on the audience


    Josie attentively watched for a few minutes, clearly heating whispers from behind


    ¡°Am I seeing things, or is that Josie Warren!¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s definitely her. Why is she even allowed at an event like this?¡±


    ¡°Could it be another case of her sleeping her way in?¡±


    There were low chuckles from behind, but Josie paid them no mind. After ying with her phone for a


    while, she seemed to find it boring and opened the magazine, engrossing herself in its pages.


    However, a few sets of eyes remained fixed on her back.


    A socialite spoke up. ¡°Liana, she¡¯s Dexter¡¯s ex-wife. Shouldn¡¯t you teach her a lesson?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s a rare opportunity.¡±


    ¡°I always found her unting distasteful. Dexter divorcing her was a relief.¡±


    Among the socialites, there were clearly different levels, and Heather was undoubtedly being revered in


    this group.


    She stayed seated and gazed at Josie¡¯s back, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s not. It¡¯s impolite.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s impolite about it? She has fallen from grace. You have nothing to fear from her now.¡±


    Heather wasn¡¯t incited by thements. Instead, she tried to pacify everyone by saying, ¡°Let¡¯s just get


    along peacefully. Dexter wouldn¡¯t be happy if he found out.¡±


    ¡°Why? He doesn¡¯t still have feelings for that cunning fox, does he?¡± The crowd cast sympathetic


    nces toward Heather.


    She pursed her lips, herpetitive spirit ignited. ¡°No, it¡¯s just that Dexter simply doesn¡¯t like to


    mention her. Maybe he feels disgusted by their past.¡±


    During their time together, Heather had indeed intentionally or unintentionally mentioned Josie, but


    Dexter often furrowed his brow and changed the subject by ordering, ¡°Don¡¯t mention her.¡±


    Heather couldn¡¯t be sure whether he genuinely loathed Josie or if it was more about the pain thetter


    caused him. With time, she preferred to believe it was the former.


    The people around her suddenly realized, and they said. ¡°You¡¯re truly better than her in every way,


    Liana. You¡¯re slimmer, and your aura is more captivating. In short, you outshine her in every aspect.¡±


    Heather listened to thements. In the end, she couldn¡¯t even muster augh.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Josie might not be as slim as her, but she had all the right curves. She didn¡¯t leak weak when she


    smiled Instead, her smile was full of vitality and slyness, like a young gul


    This was something Heather had imitated for a long time but couldn¡¯t quite capture its essence


    ¡°Liana. I heard you¡¯re nning an art exhibition?¡± someone suddenly asked.


    Heather snapped back to attention. ¡°Yes, my father insists on it, saying I have talent. Remember to


    attend it when the timees.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re truly remarkable!¡±


    She gave a gentle smile, but as she lowered her gaze, the smile vanished.


    Josie was still engrossed in the magazine, not paying any attention to the runway. After a while, she put


    down the magazine and answered a phone call. Whatever was said on the other end seemed to


    trouble her. She furrowed her brow before standing up to leave.


    The magazine she had been reading was left behind on her seat.


    It remained there, unnoticed, until the end of the fashion show when the crowd dispersed. Josie didn¡¯t


    return, and the magaziney untouched.


    Several of Heather¡¯s friends were picked up by their drivers. Before leaving, they had all asked,


    ¡°Should we go together?¡±


    Heather replied calmly, ¡°Thank you, but I¡¯ll wait for my driver to pick me up.¡±


    Once everyone had left, she turned around and quietly returned to the empty venue. She walked up to


    Josie¡¯s seat and picked up the forgotten magazine.

 Chapter 865 Respect And Blessings

    Chapter 865 Respect And Blessings


    In fact, josie wasn¡¯t in a hurry to leave


    There was an office building near the show venue She sent to the cafe on the buildings second floor


    and ordered an americano Sitting by the floor-to-ceiling window she watched Heathere and go


    before standing on the street again


    From Josie¡¯s perspective, Heather height was actually about the same as hers


    After about ten minutes of waiting, a Bealey pulled up to the curb The driver¡¯s door opened, and to


    Josie¡¯s surprise, it wasn¡¯t the Olsen family¡¯s chauffeur who emerged, but a familiar face


    It was Moses


    He got out of the cat, opened the back door, and gestured to Heather. ¡°Ms. Olsen, please


    Heather was clearly taken by surprise. She leaned slightly forward, smiling as she spoke to the man in


    the back seat.


    From Josie¡¯s perspective, she could perfectly see the passenger¡¯s impably tailored suit. The man


    likely just got out of a meeting. ¨C


    The man¡¯s jawline was well-defined and recognizable at a nce.


    He gave a slight nod, and Heather, clutching her sketchbook, got into the car. In no time, the vehicle


    sped off


    Engrossed in her observation, Josie took a sip of the americano by her side. The bitter yet aromatic


    vor immediately filled her mouth, stimting her brain nerves and forcing her to snap out of her


    trance.


    ¡°What¡¯s this? Do you have a habit of stalking your ex-husband?¡± A voice suddenly came from behind


    her. A jolt ran down Josie¡¯s spine as she looked up to see a familiar face.


    Morgan satfortably across from her, blocking her view. ¡°Bastille Group is renting this office


    building. My secretary came down to buy coffee and happened to see you.¡±


    After exining the reason for his visit, Morgan watched her with great interest, his expression calm.


    Josie felt like rolling her eyes. Just my luck to bump into him here!


    ¡°Just renting, huh? I thought you would buy the building outright.¡±


    Morgan removed his suit jacket, pausing when he heard herment. He replied approvingly, ¡°That


    makes sense.¡±


    A momentter, he added, ¡°But we have to wait until the lease is up.¡±


    The waiter brought over a cup of coffee, which happened to be an americano. Morgan took a sip and


    raised an eyebrow.


    Josie propped her cheek on one hand, appearingpletely at ease. ¡°With Bastille Group¡¯s crisis in


    full swing, do you really have time to sit here and have coffee with me?¡±


    ¡°The two senior executives involved in the case have resigned, taking responsibility for their actions.


    owledging their tax evasion behavior, has made amends by paying their due taxes in full. Thepany


    has also issued a public apology and is making internal and external reforms. We¡¯re not afraid of


    further investigations.¡±


    Morgan, dressed in a white shirt, spoke these words with wit and humor


    Josie took his words to mean that everything had been settled, which was why he was so confident.


    Shemented, ¡°The billions that Bastille Group lost seem to mean nothing to you.¡±


    ¡°In this world, the easiest thing to earn is money. If it¡¯s gone, just earn it again.¡± Morgan lifted his cup


    and took another sip, continuing, ¡°If Dexter thinks he can destroy me like this, he¡¯s simply


    daydreaming¡±


    As Josie listened, she idly yed with her long hair. Although she didn¡¯t fully understand the power y


    between them, she knew Dexter well enough to know that he would never make such a losing deal.


    That was, unless, he had other intentions.


    Just then, Morgan¡¯s phone, which was on the table, suddenly vibrated. A message popped up.


    It looked to be his personal cell phone, which meant the iing message was particrly important.


    Morgan and Josic exchanged a nce. He promptly picked it up and unlocked the screen.


    The corners of his mouth curved into a perfect are as he ced the phone in front of Josie.


    She lowered her head naturally and was startled to see the content of the message.


    Twenty minutes ago, Dexter had concluded a meeting with the Olsen family, finalizing the coboration


    for the next quarter.


    Josie looked up and asked, ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    ¡°The Olsen family has ultimately chosen to side with Russell Group. It seems that good news is on the


    horizon for your ex-husband.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips twitched even as she muttered, ¡°He has my well wishes.¡±Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Morgan stared at her and added, ¡°Tomorrow¡¯s headline will be about Dexter picking up and dropping off


    Liana at home.¡±

 Chapter 866 Pop Has A Clue

    Chapter 866 Pop Has A Clue


    Morgan was right When Josie woke up the next day, all the major social media tforms were indeed


    flooded with paparazzi shots of Dexter and Heather


    The photos showed Dexter escorting Heather to the Olsen Residence The two of them were captured


    whispering to each other for a while in front of the car. Only then did Heather leave, looking back every


    few steps she took.


    Journalists likened them to a couple in the throes of passionate love.


    Upon seeing this, Joste couldn¡¯t help but sneer. They obviously hadn¡¯t seen Dexter¡¯s debauched


    demeanor that day in Zachariah¡¯s office


    The gossip corroborated the official news. The fact that these photos could be released proved that


    Russell Group indeed inked a business coboration with the Olsen family.


    As Josie practiced some yoga in the morning sun, her mind drifted back to the previous night. In the


    dimly lit caf¨¦, she had asked Morgan, ¡°The meeting just ended, and you already have the news. Do you


    have an insider?¡±


    Morgan narrowed his eyes meaningfully. ¡°Testing me, are you? Want my help?¡±


    -I don¡¯t understand. Why would I need your help?¡±


    ¡°To take some people down.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± Josie¡¯s winged eyeliner had been drawn longer than usual that day, giving off a rather


    intimidating aura.


    Morgan pondered her question and appeared to be carefully choosing his words. ¡°A mistress? In every


    sense of the word.¡±


    The smile at the corner of Josie¡¯s mouth faded. She wasn¡¯t sure how much Morgan knew about her


    situation or why he was so willing to help her, but one thing was certain ¨C his intentions were far from


    simple.


    With a yful look, Morgan lifted his coffee cup, clinking it against hers, producing a crisp sound.


    ¡°Until the hotel project ispleted, I¡¯ll be in Wavery. Call me any time.¡±


    A jarring ringtone interrupted Josie¡¯s reverie. She opened her eyes, taking a moment to adjust to the


    light.


    The iing call was unmistakably from Scott.


    She picked up immediately. ¡°Sergeant Buncho.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Warren, we have found some leads about your father, but¡­¡±


    Scott trailed off in hesitation. Josie, anxious to the point of losing herposure, braced herself for the


    worst. ¡°What do you mean,


    ¡°but?¡±


    ¡°Come out and meet me.¡±


    They agreed to meet at a pasta restaurant outside the police station. Scott was already heartily


    enjoying his pasta as Josie arrivedte to their meeting.


    Noticing her arrival, he quickly swallowed the food in his mouth and exined. ¡°Thave important


    matters. to attend to this afternoon, so I can¡¯t go too far I har no choice but to ask you toe here¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay Josie sat in front of him, her face full of anxiety ¡°Sergeant Buncho, what did you mean on the


    phone? What clues have you found


    Scott pulled out a folder from his briefcase. Following certain lues, we¡¯ve located thest ce your


    father was seen before he disappeared¡±


    Josie was taken aback as he opened the folder. ¡°Are you suggesting my father didn¡¯t disappear by the


    seaside?¡±


    ¡°The beach is crowded, and there are eyes everywhere, It¡¯s not easy to abduct someone without


    notice. unless, they willingly go with someone they know¡± Scott spoke about the case, his eyes shining


    brightly.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    A stack of photos fell out of the folder. Scott¡¯s finger rested on one of them, and he continued, ¡°We


    followed this car and found a ce.¡±


    That car was just an ordinary Chevrolet Lightspeed.


    Josie was flipping through the photos at a rapid pace. She quickly stopped as she recognized a familiar


    ce.


    Sky Pce?


    That¡¯s Arnold¡¯s ce.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed tightly as she looked at Scott, ¡°This¡­¡±


    ¡°Thest ce this car was seen was right here.¡±


    Scott took another bite of his pasta. ¡°Still, our evidence collection hasn¡¯t been going smoothly. The


    other party has been very cooperative, so we¡¯ve managed to review the surveince footage from that


    day. There was no one in the car, and the driver has no connection to your father whatsoever.¡±


    Josie was surprised to see that the driver was actually one of Arnold¡¯s men, a man named Scar.


    She was perplexed. Although Paul¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t as sharp as it used to be, it wasn¡¯t so bad that he


    couldn¡¯t recognize people. It was impossible for him to follow a stranger.

 Chapter 867 Keep An Eye On Xanthe

    Chapter 867 Keep An Eye On Xanthe


    Josie clenched the photos. ¡°Could they have kidnapped my father? They¡¯re well-known thugs in


    Wavery. capable of anything.¡±


    Scott gestured for her to stay calm. ¡°What about the motive?¡±


    He was right. There was no motive. Scar had no reason to do this.


    Josie quickly recalled that after her father disappeared, she had gone to Arnold because she suspected


    Wyatt was loyal to him and had some involvement. However, she didn¡¯t get far as Wyatt ended up


    hospitalized, and everything came to a halt.


    Without Wyatt, Arnold¡¯s motives for any wrongdoing became less obvious.


    ¡°What we know now is that once this van entered the surveince blind spot, it might have switched


    packages. Thus, Paul didn¡¯t disappear at this country club.¡±


    Something suddenly urred to Josie as she asked, ¡°Have you investigated the owner of this club?¡±


    Scott nodded. ¡°Arnold has had his share of troublestely, and the police chief advised against


    provoking him for now, at least until we progress further in the investigation. Ms. Olsen, do you recall


    might have missed? Any information could provide valuable leads.¡±


    Josie sat quietly for a while, her mind churning with thoughts.


    Pop and Arnold had no conflicts of interest. They didn¡¯t even know each other. Assuming it was him, it


    must be rted to Dexter and me. But why would they go to such lengths?


    Josie couldn¡¯t fathom it.


    ¡°If you can¡¯t remember, it¡¯s okay. We have someone closely monitoring Scar, and we¡¯ll inform you if


    there are any leads, Scott said as he put away the photos. ¡°We can¡¯t approach Arnold directly. If you¡¯re


    willing, you can try, but don¡¯t alert him.¡±


    Josie naturally understood.


    After Scott left, she remained in her seat for a while before dialing a number. ¡°Justin, can you help me


    check the visitor records for Wyatt Russell over the past three months?¡±


    ¡°Wyatt Russell? Who¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°From the Russell family¡±


    Justin quickly caught on.


    He found the information swiftly, but it was in the evening when he arrived at Josie¡¯s house with the


    results.


    ¡°There are not many visitors, and they are mostly rtives. Of course, Dexter¡¯s name isn¡¯t on the list.¡±


    Josie scoffed. Of course Dexter didn¡¯t visit him. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be in the hospital now.


    She went through the list one by one. ¡°Is he still in aa?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The doctor said there¡¯s a high probability he won¡¯t regain consciousness.¡±


    There were very few people who had visited him, all close to Wyatt, but as Josie scrutinized the list,


    she suddenly noticed a familiar name-Xanthe Quorn.


    Josie narrowed her eyes. Why would Xanthe visit Wyau?


    ¡°I know this person. I¡¯ve met her at Heaven on Earth before. She¡¯s Dexter¡¯s mother,¡± Justin said as he


    nced at the list.


    Yes, it had been a while since she had shown up.


    ¡°Even though she no longer has any ties with the Russell family, he is, after all, her former nephew.


    Given the gravity of the situation, it is normal for her to pay him a visit, right?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Josie pursed her lips but didn¡¯t think Xanthe was acting out of kindness.


    She was a refined egoist who could even neglect her own son, let alone her nephew.


    Ah. I nearly forgot she was cooperating with Yanis before he went to jail.


    Josie tapped her finger on the list. Xanthe went to the hospital every month.


    She couldn¡¯t put her finger on it, but it struck her as odd.


    If you can manage, keep an eye on her movements for me.¡±


    Justin¡¯s surprise became more evident, but he didn¡¯t ask directly. ¡°Are you facing some trouble?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to exin the story of Paul¡¯s disappearance to him.

 Chapter 868 Girlfriend

    Chapter 868 Girlfriend


    ¡°Nothing much. I have my own reasons for asking you to do this.¡±


    Seeing this, Justin didn¡¯t press further. Before leaving, he suddenly remembered something and


    pointed to the corner where there was a stockpile of instant noodles. ¡°You should still have regr


    meals.¡±


    Josie was momentarily surprised. ¡°You¡¯ve really grown up.¡±


    Justin seemed a bit awkward, scratching his head. ¡°Even though we¡¯re not rted by blood, we grew


    up together and yed together. You take care.¡±


    Josie looked up at him and suddenly smiled. It was a smile of eptance, and tears welled up in her


    eyes involuntarily. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Justin blushed slightly, feeling a bit embarrassed about expressing such affection toward her.


    ¡°Justin.¡± Josie called out. ¡°Stay safe.¡±


    He smiled and gave a determined nod in response.


    As Justin left. Josie sat by the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing at the dazzling night skyline outside as


    she hugged her knees.


    Her heart was set on protecting Justin as he was Paul¡¯s son.


    Her phone buzzed as she received a message from Morgan. It contained a picture of a red invitation


    card for a fashion show organized by a top-tier international jewelry brand in coboration with a


    domestic fashion magazine. The venue for the event was none other than the Olsen Residence.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    The name of the show was ¡°Autumn Banquet.¡±


    The Olsen Residence was vast and offered picturesque scenery, making it an ideal location for a


    fashion. show. It was clear that they were also sponsors of the event.


    At the top of the invitation card, it read, ¡°Liana Olsen cordially invites you.¡±


    Josie sent a question mark to him in response.


    Morgan sent azy voice message in return, ¡°You like watching fashion shows, don¡¯t you? You can


    come with me.¡±


    Josie had to admit that Morgan was indeed a valuable connection. Without him or if she were to rely on


    Laura, she wouldn¡¯t have had ess to such events.


    ¡°What time tomorrow?¡±


    He replied with a specific time.


    The next day, Josie left her home on time. As soon as she stepped out of the building, Morgan¡¯s car


    arrived as if it were perfectly timed. The car stopped smoothly.


    Inside, Morgan was on a business call, asionally responding to a few sentences. Meanwhile, he


    handed her a cup of hot milk and some food.


    She never used to drink coffee in the past and would only drink milk..


    Josie pushed it away without revealing her emotions and told him softly, ¡°I¡¯ve already had breakfast.¡±


    Morgan didn¡¯t get mad. He talked on the phone until they arrived at the Olsen Residence. When he


    presented his invitation, the attendant scrutinized Josie for a while.


    ¡°My girlfriend.¡± Morgan dered. He raised his hand and ced it on Josie¡¯s shoulder.


    At this point, Josie had no room to argue and could only smile.


    The attendant immediately gestured for them to head inside.


    Morgan escorted Josie into the venue, where another attendant guided them. ¡°The fashion show is in


    the manor across theke and has just started.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a cocktail party on thewn in two hours,¡± the attendant pointed out. ¡°The entire Olsen


    Residence, except for the shrine room and ancestral hall, is open to guests today.¡±


    The Olsen Residence was expansive, even including a racecourse and a shooting range.


    After crossing theke by boat with Morgan, the attendant left them. Josie let go of Morgan¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Thank you¡±


    Morgan nced at his empty arm. ¡°Josie, you shouldn¡¯t burn bridges.¡±


    ¡°Ive already burned them. Can you still throw me into the river?¡± Josie retorted.


    Morgan chuckled. Josie¡¯s liveliness made him feel vibrance even in autumn.


    The estate was open-air and adorned with several parasol trees. Their fallen, golden leaves covered


    the ground, creating a natural carpet. Models in high-end couture walked amidst this outdoor setting,


    their jewelry gleaming on their necks and wrists.


    After entering the venue, Josie stood in a corner, uninterested in the jewelry on disy.


    At this moment, Heather was sitting in the front row, engaged in a hushed conversation with someone.


    From time to time, important figures approached her, exchanging greetings and pleasantries.


    The star of the show was as clear as day.

 Chapter 869 Won Back After Going To Great Lengths

    Chapter 869 Won Back After Going To Great Lengths


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± Morgan¡¯s voice rang out beside Josie.


    Josie looked back at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Such an event.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fake with no substance.¡±


    Josie genuinely disliked things that were overly shy and superficial. Contrarily, she had a greater


    fondness for architecture that was grounded and practical.


    More people entered the hall, one after another. Among them, a voice drifted into the air. ¡°I wasn¡¯t in


    the best shape previously. I apologize for causing everyone to worry.¡±


    Before Josie saw the person, she heard her voice. When she swung her gaze over, she indeed saw


    Summer entering hand in hand with Arnold. The woman was currently dealing with a journalist.


    The man, on the other hand, had already spotted Josie and Morgan. His eyes promptly darkened.


    ¡°Mr. Carter.¡± Morgan extended a hand gentlemanly. ¡°What a pleasure to meet you after hearing so


    much about you.


    Summer had already regained herposure. Seeing Morgan, she was about to smile when she


    suddenly saw Josie. Her smile abruptly died.


    Verily, she couldn¡¯t even muster a smile. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Josie merely smiled without saying a word. Meanwhile, Morgan had already taken Arnold¡¯s hand. He


    asked, ¡°You know my girlfriend, Ms. Olsen?¡±


    No sooner had he said that than the grip on his suddenly tightened. Morgan looked back at Arnold


    leisurely. ¡°You¡¯re a practitioner of martial arts, Mr. Carter.¡±


    Arnold withdrew his hand unhurriedly. ¡°I¡¯m just surprised. I thought the article in the newspaper was just


    gossip, but it turned out to be true.¡±


    As he spoke. Josie could distinctly feel his probing gaze on her.


    Summer sneered, ¡°Indeed, who would have thought Ms. Warren would be so lucky to be with you, Mr.


    Bastille.¡±


    The implication behind those words was a belittlement to the lowest level, hinting that Josie relied on


    men.


    Hearing that, Morgan casually ced his hand on Josie¡¯s shoulder and remarked smilingly, ¡°If you


    upset the girlfriend I finally won back after going to great lengths, where would I go to make my case


    were she to leave me. Ms. Olsen?¡±


    The information in thatment was monumental, reminding the woman that he was Josie¡¯s ex-


    boyfriend.


    Summer¡¯s face flushed bright red in fury.


    Arnold didn¡¯t quite grasp that, but then, understanding dawned upon him. ¡°Ah, she¡¯s your ex-girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°First love, Morgan amended.


    Arnold¡¯s hand that hung by his side surreptitiously balled into a fist. Just then, an attendant came over.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen is looking for you, Mr. Carter.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Arnold nced in Mark¡¯s direction. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Summer also looked over and saw Heather. Her expression darkened further, and she muttered, ¡°What


    a rotten day.¡±


    Josie stared at their retreating figures, lost in thought as she reflected on a myriad of things.


    Scar and Arnold had never met Paul, so it¡¯s impossible for them to be the acquaintances mentioned by


    Sergeant Buncho. It also seems unlikely that they would have any reason to abduct him since Arnold


    put everything he had into their subsequent experience in Rivodia. If it were him, he wouldn¡¯t need to


    work so hard.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Morgan whispered into her ear, suddenly leaned in.


    Startled. Josie jolted out of her thoughts and shook his hand off. ¡°I need to use the restroom.¡±


    She washed her face and felt considerably more alert. Just then, her phone buzzed with a text from an


    unknown number. It read: Come to the racecourse.


    Surmising the person who sent it, she nned to ignore it. However, the second message came in


    quick session. It read: Do you want me toe over and pick you up in person?


    She could imagine the torment the man would put her through if she didn¡¯tply with his demand.


    Snagging her bag in rage, she got ready to leave. But as she reached the door, someone stopped her.


    Arnold lit a cigarette and let it burn slowly between his fingers. He looked at Josie and said calmly, ¡°It


    seems you¡¯ve made your choice.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath, then suddenly asked, ¡°Your father¡¯s bail application didn¡¯t go through, did it?¡±


    "You know.¡±

 Chapter 870 Spend Your Life In Prison

    Chapter 870 Spend Your Life In Prison


    ¡°I happened to be there when Summer went to seek the police chief out,¡± Josie said with unparalleled.


    calmness. ¡°At least for you, she is a suitable wife, capable of getting things done for you.¡±


    Arnold raised his hand and took a puff of his cigarette before exhaling the smoke upward.


    ¡°You actually don¡¯t love her, not even from the start. You¡¯re only good to her because you cover the


    Olsen family¡¯s power and your father¡¯s vision. Now that you¡¯ve got everything, you shouldn¡¯t be giving


    up.¡± Josie voiced the truth for him.


    At that, she chuckled lightly before adding. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve suddenly found true love at your age.¡±


    Her tone was rxed and natural,ced with a hint of mockery. It was as though it had absolutely


    nothing to do with her.


    Arnold stared at her, somewhat puzzled. ¡°Compared to Dexter, Morgan is no less cunning?¡±


    ¡°But he treats me well and is able to give me a status. This is something neither you nor Dexter can


    do.¡±


    Josie looked somewhat mncholy. She added, ¡°Don¡¯t let Scar and the others call me Mrs. Carter


    anymore. Hell get jealous.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    After saying that, she stared at Arnold intently, trying to discern something from his expression.


    Regretfully, there was none. He snubbed his cigarette.


    ¡°I will get Edward out right before Dexter¡¯s eyes.¡± Arnold spun on his heel and left.


    Suddenly. Josie wasn¡¯t so sure of things anymore.


    The weather that day was splendid, with clouds drifting in the sky. The sun unabashedly cast its rays


    on the mountains andkes, enhancing the scenery¡¯s beauty.


    When she arrived at the racecourse, voices drifted out of the room. She promptly halted in her tracks.


    Mr. Russell, there was indeed a problem at the bidding, but I have nothing to do with the missing thirty


    nillion¡± A weathered voice rang out. The man half-knelt in front of Dexter with fear written all over his


    ace.


    I didn¡¯t say you had to make up for it.¡±


    The man was instantly surprised and prostrated himself. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Russell! Thank you, Mr.


    Lussell!¡±


    Dexter lifted his leg and pressed his exquisite leather shoe down on the man¡¯s back, gradually applying


    orce. ¡°There are two things Russell Group cannot tolerate-betrayal and bribery. You¡¯vemitted one.


    of them. Be prepared to spend the rest of your life in prison.¡±


    le spoke as though it was nothing, yet it dashed the man¡¯s hopes in an instant.


    The man stilled before prostrating himself even more earnestly. ¡°I was wrong, Mr. Russell! I¡¯ve truly


    talized my mistake! If you give me a chance, I will definitely make up for my wrongdoing. Oh yes, I also


    now about an issue with the HR department of Russell Group!¡± hose words had Dexter case his foot


    slightly. He cracked his knuckles and looked at Larry,


    Thetter immediately said. ¡°He¡¯s talking about the deputy head of the HR department, who epted.


    bribes. I¡¯ve already dealt with it.¡±


    As soon as his words rang out, the man¡¯s face turned ashen. He no longer had any grounds to plead


    for himself.


    Dexter chuckled lightly, lifting the man¡¯s chin with the tip of his foot. ¡°Thirty million is a small amount,


    but I don¡¯t employ people with bad habits.¡±


    After he had finished speaking, someone immediately stepped forward and dragged the man away.


    The person opened the door and dragged the man out all the way in front of Josie.


    Josie stood rooted to the spot. As chilly air blew out from the room, her heart went cold.


    Dexter was dressed sharply that day. Right then, he was bent over, ying pool with a group of


    youngsters. Tall and dashing, he attracted much attention. The rosary beads on his wrist lent him a


    gentle air, unlike the assertive man from earlier.


    With a flick of his cue, a billiard ball tumbled into the pocket.


    Josic sidestepped her way into the room, but he didn¡¯t even spare a nce, perhaps too engrossed in


    the game.


    She stood in the corner, naturally not in the mood to join in.


    Dexter took a few more shots, but none of the youngsters were his match. He probably found it boring,


    for he put away his cue. Uncapping a bottle of water, he threw his head back and took a gulp of it.


    Only after he had done that did he seemingly notice her and arched an eyebrow at her.

 Chapter 871 Horse Racing

    Chapter 871 Horse Racing


    Mr. Dexter, sitting at the edge of the stands, raised his voice. ¡°What¡¯s the point of just watching? Let¡¯s


    make it interesting with a wager. Let¡¯s bet on that thoroughbred horse.¡±


    On therge screen of the stadium, an attendant was leading a noble horse of excellent quality.


    Someone scoffed. ¡°You really know how to spend money without restraint. Everyone knows that the


    woman Zach brought today is this year¡¯s equestrian champion. She could win even with her eyes


    closed.¡±


    Josie lifted his gaze, only to find that Zach was also present. He was holding a woman in his arms,


    pletely disregarding Laura, and no one there seemed to find anything amiss.


    The people in the room knew how to read the room. Seeing Josie standing in ce, a woman standing


    close to Dexter scolded her, ¡°Are you trying to be a pir, standing there? Don¡¯t you have any sense?


    Make some room for others.¡±


    The woman looked surprised for a moment, then upon seeing Josie¡¯s face, she immediately stepped


    back.


    Everyone knew her rtionship with Dexter wasplicated, and the two were still entangled.


    For a moment, everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Josie. That day, she was dressed in a gray haute couture,


    exuding charm without losing her dignity. Standing there in silence, no one dared to interrupt with a


    joke.


    Someone had stepped in to defuse the situation, so she didn¡¯t approach. She locked eyes with Dexter


    through the gap between the two people, her gaze anything but submissive.


    Dexter, with an impassive face, opened the water bottle. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? You don¡¯t want to stand


    with me?¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯re of noble status, Mr. Russell. I am not worthy.¡±


    Dexter scrutinized her from head to toe. The rumors about her and Morgan had been circting since


    she entered the Olsen family. It was indeed eye-catching.


    He tapped the bleachers lightly with his water bottle, uttering decisively, ¡°If you win, you¡¯re free to go.¡±


    Josie cast a nce. Several morous women were adjusting their outfits, each standing next to a


    horse. They were preparing for a horse-ridingpetition.


    It was likely that thosedies werepanions brought by the scions of various families, used for


    amusement when they had nothing better to do.


    In reality, that was nothing unusual for this circle. Josie had seen rows of women lying naked on the


    ground before, their bodies covered with stacks of money. Whenever a scion lost in their games, he


    would take a stack of money from his femalepanion. The thrill and excitement were what they


    were really ying for.


    In this circle, women had no dignity, especially those women who were dependent on men.


    Josie understood clearly Dexter was deliberately making fun of her in front of everyone.


    She didn¡¯t want to draw attention to herself, but judging by the situation, Dexter wouldn¡¯t let her off


    easily.


    Zach stared intently the whole time, chuckling, ¡°You¡¯re not scared, are you?¡±


    Josie turned around, her skirt swaying at her ankles, her high heels clicking assertively on the ground.


    Zach furrowed his brow, inexplicably feeling that her gaze was extraordinarily intimidating.


    The attendant led Josie to change into equestrian attire. Her figure was excellent, and her waistline


    perfectly entuated. She tied her hair up in a high ponytail, showing no fear as she mounted the


    horse.


    She lowered her gaze, noticing the woman who had been nestled next to Zach earlier was now walking


    toward her.


    In the lounge, everyone¡¯s gaze was fixed on the screen.


    Dexter stood still, a fresh ss of liquor in his hand, the ice cubes clinking inside.


    With the sound of a whistle echoing in the arena, the horses on the track instantly burst into a gallop.


    Josie had ridden a horse once in front of Dexter and Arnold. However, she had fallen off that time and


    never dared to touch a horse again. That was her only experience.


    She clenched the reins tightly, her other hand brandishing the riding crop, striving to control the horse


    as it galloped forward, doing her utmost to remain calm.


    However, those women had no experience riding horses, so they moved quite slowly. After all, if they


    were to fall and ruin their exquisite faces, it would truly be the end of the world for them.


    Josie was fearless, so she was temporarily in the lead.

 Chapter 872 Revenge

    Chapter 872 Revenge


    The woman apanying Zach was on track three. She was experienced and always kept a firm grip


    on the reins, following behind Josie. After riding half ap, she gradually took the lead, doing so


    effortlessly.


    Gradually, Josie adapted to the rhythm of the gallop, and her courage grew steadily. With a sudden flick


    of his whip, the horse neighed and bolted forward, quickly overtaking Zach¡¯s date.


    She stared incredulously at Josie¡¯s retreating figure. It¡¯s clear she¡¯s a novice, but does she have a


    death wish, racing in this manner?


    Josie may not be a professional, but she certainly had the guts.


    She rode on horseback, watching the scenery of the Olsen family estate whizzing by, her emotions a


    complex mix. One day, everything I¡¯ve lost will return to me.


    Just then, Zach¡¯s date also picked up speed. She guided her horse closer to Josie¡¯s, using her


    experience to nudge the other horse with her own. Josie¡¯s horse immediately lost its footing, swiftly


    leaning to one side. and elerating into a stumble.


    This scene elicited a gasp from the lounge.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter gripped the wine ss tightly, the veins on the back of his hand bulging prominently. His gaze


    turned ominously darker.


    Zach couldn¡¯t help but steal a nce at his expression. At that sight, he broke out in a cold sweat.


    Even though Dexter had already divorced Josie, no one could be sure about his attitude toward her.


    He opened his mouth, intending to say something to lighten the mood, but Dexter had already put


    down his wine ss and walked out.


    ¡°F*ck! I¡¯didn¡¯t ask her to do that!¡± Zach eximed. ¡°Do I need her to win this championship? Does she


    really think I like watching her racehorse!¡±


    Someone nearby clicked their tongue. ¡°Your femalepanion reallymands attention.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie tightly gripped the reins, clenching her legs around the horse¡¯s belly to prevent


    herself from falling off, barely managing to calm the startled horse.


    She nced at Zach¡¯s date, who was far ahead, and a surge of determination welled up within her. She


    patted the horse¡¯s head. ¡°Shall we take revenge? What do you say?¡±


    This horse was spirited, as if it could understand her.


    Josie fiercely swung her whip, her speed escting relentlessly. Not only was her adrenaline surging,


    but so was that of the spectators watching the race.


    She was racing like there was no tomorrow.


    Upon reaching the bend, Zach¡¯s date instinctively slowed down for stability, but Josie didn¡¯t reduce her


    speed at all. On the contrary, she whipped the horse even harder, causing it to gallop fiercely. She


    pursed her lips and leaned forward, feeling the immense force of the impact, her hair flying in the wind.


    Zach¡¯s date never expected that Josie would actually dare to do this!


    ¡°F*ck!¡±


    The spirited horse was the first to reach the finish line. Josie held the reins, trying to calm the


    excitement. in her heart. She came to her senses, only to find her hands were shaking.


    She turned around and saw Zach¡¯s date¡¯s face looking extremely unpleasant.


    Josie wanted tough, but what reced it was a wave of extreme emptiness, the emptiness that


    comes after a great shock.


    However, just at that moment, she felt a sharp pain in her wrist as she was forcefully yanked off the


    horse.


    ¡°Who told you to speed up?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gloomy face was right before her eyes. He gripped her wrist tightly, looking genuinely livid.


    Josie paused for a moment.


    He roared in fury, ¡°Are you trying to get yourself killed!¡±


    Josie snapped back to reality, shaking off his hand. ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you wanted? If I win, you let me go.


    I won.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brow remained furrowed, his anger not yet dissipated. He tightened his grip on her waist,


    effortlessly lifting her back onto the horse. His hands held her close in front of him. ¡°Josie, let me tell


    you what I truly desire.¡±


    ¡°Dex-¡±


    Before Josie could even shout out, he squeezed his horse¡¯s belly with his legs, and the horse


    immediately bolted forward again.


    This time, with his control, the speed was much faster and also more stable.


    Josie leaned into his embrace, her eyes tightly shut. She was devoid of any sense of security at that


    instant.


    ¡°Dexter! You jerk! Put me down!¡±

 Chapter 873 He Holds the Initiative

    Chapter 873 He Holds the Initiative


    Dexter quickened his pace instead, venting his unbridled anger on horseback. ¡°Don¡¯t ruin your voice by


    shouting.¡±


    Josie felt as if she would be better off dead.


    She had nowhere to hold on to, her only option was to cling to his neck to prevent herself from falling.


    Yet her movements were hesitant and subtle due to her reluctance to rely on him.


    Dexter suddenly sped up and then abruptly stopped the horse. Josie, unable to resist the inertia, fell


    hard sinto his arms. Her forehead bumped against his abs, causing a sharp pain as she instinctively


    held onto him tightly.


    ¡°D*mn you!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice was husky. ¡°Use a different word to curse.¡±


    ¡°You beast! You lunatic! You freak!¡±


    Dexter lowered his head to nce at her, chuckling lightly. ¡°Then why are you still holding me so


    tightly?¡±


    In that instant, Josie wanted to let go, but considering her safety, she held on tightly to the corner of


    Dexter¡¯s clothes. If she was going to die, she could at least drag him down with her..


    ¡°Exciting, isn¡¯t it?¡± He suddenly asked. Slowing down a little, he lowered his gaze to look at her intently.


    Josie, who had somewhat calmed down, turned her head away defiantly.


    He questioned further, ¡°Would you dare to do it again next time?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond. Seeing him about to speed up, she finally replied, ¡°Dexter, we¡¯re already divorced.


    What I do is none of your business.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Dexter let out a snigger. ¡°Divorce? That means nothing. Our rtionship


    only ends when I say it ends.¡±


    This person is simply unreasonable.


    Josie looked up into his dark eyes. ¡°When will you tire of this game?¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    This remark reignited the anger in Dexter¡¯s heart that had just barely subsided. He tightened his grip on


    her waist and enunciated, ¡°It depends on my mood.¡±


    With her chest heaving, Josie found it amusing. ¡°Must you behave this way?¡±


    ¡°I insist,¡± Dexter responded quickly.


    He halted his horse, caressing her snow-white cheek with one hand. Gradually, he moved his hand


    down, resting it on the artery by her neck where he pressed gently.


    ¡°If you want a peaceful life, don¡¯t upset me.¡±


    In the end, Josie pushed him away and clumsily dismounted the horse. However, the lingering shock


    caused her knees to buckle, and she almost fell to the ground.


    Peaceful? From the moment I married him, I could no longer lead a peaceful life.


    ¡°Jo!¡±


    When a voice echoed out, Josie lifted her gaze and was surprised to see Morgan rushing over, his face


    filled with anxiety. Behind him were Laura and Heather, among others. They had been watching for


    God knows how long, but Arnold was nowhere to be found.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Morgan stepped forward, taking her hand and looking her over.


    Josie shook her head, instinctively wanting to pull her hand back.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, don¡¯t you think you¡¯ve gone too far with your games?¡± Morgan questioned the man who


    dismounted from his horse calmly.


    Dexter leisurely put away his whip, ¡°Ms. Warren doesn¡¯t know how to ride a horse, so I was teaching


    her. I hope you don¡¯t mind, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    Morgan gripped Josie¡¯s hand tightly. Despite the smile on his face, the look in his eyes was extremely


    cold.


    ¡°I trust my girlfriendpletely. I¡¯m just not sure if Ms. Olsen would mind.¡±


    This remark was directed at Heather. She was still wearing the haute couture she had on when


    watching the show earlier. At that moment, she was staring at Dexter with her face brimming with


    indignance.¡±


    Unconcerned, thetter handed the whip to the attendant. ¡°You¡¯re smart. You know me well.¡±


    The statement was both ambiguous and distant. It offered no exnation, yet it seemed to exin


    everything.


    Josie saw Heather swallow her grievances and force a smile before stepping forward, ¡°I know that Dex


    can be very helpful sometimes.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, Morgan couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    Josie silently stepped on his foot, causing him to click his tongue.


    At that moment, everyone in the lounge also walked out with Zach at the lead.

 Chapter 874 How To Be A Good Husband

    Chapter 874 How To Be A Good Husband


    ¡°Ms. Warren¡¯s horse riding skills are truly impressive. No wonder she is an equestrian champion. It


    turns out it was all thanks to Mr. Russell¡¯s training-¡± As he spoke, he walked away, not noticing Morgan


    in his blind spot.


    The moment thetter came into view, his voice abruptly ceased.


    The reason was that he also saw Laura.


    She was standing at the back the whole time, her face devoid of any expression.


    The equestrian champion¡¯s femalepanion was still standing by his side with an intimate posture.


    Zach immediately withdrew his hand.


    With her hands folded, Josie said leisurely, ¡°Mr. Zach sure knows how to enjoy the good life. I just didn¡¯t


    realize that even an equestrian champion needs to y dirty tricks to win.¡±


    She was insinuating about hispanion¡¯s recent actions.


    The femalepanion was already irritated and couldn¡¯t hold it in any longer. ¡°I¡¯m much better than


    you,¡± she said. ¡°You think you¡¯re so capable, but you still rely on men.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face changed color, and Morgan¡¯s expression darkened. Just as he was about to step forward,


    Laural preempted them from behind.


    With a serious expression, she picked up a bottle of red wine and approached. Simultaneously, she


    picked up the bottle opener and popped it open with a bang.


    Zach looked at her in disbelief. ¡°What are you doing, Laura?¡±


    In equal disbelief, the woman in his arms dodged instantly,


    Laura, however, stared at her and burst into suddenughter. ¡°You¡¯re not the person I sawst time.¡±


    Then she said to Zach, ¡°What about Ms. Shaw? Weren¡¯t youpletely devoted to her?¡±


    After he was exposed in front of so many people, Zach¡¯s face turned red in anger and embarrassment.


    ¡°What the hell does my business have anything to do with you!¡±


    Rumors were rife that he was hen-pecked by a woman. Now, in front of so many people, he naturally.


    couldn¡¯t tolerate being humiliated.


    Laura nodded, lifting the wine bottle. Seeing Zach almost hide behind his femalepanion, she


    laughed and took a sip.


    Zach breathed a sigh of relief.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Unexpectedly, after she finished drinking, she raised her hand and sshed the wine onto Zach¡¯s face.


    ¡°F*ck!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll teach you how to be a good husband today!¡±


    After finishing her drink, Lauraughed and said to his femalepanion, ¡°After he got bored of his


    last woman, he her to work at the club. Do you understand what I mean?¡±


    These words sent chills down the woman¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Get out of here, now!¡±


    The woman flinched, her face turned pale. After stomping her foot in exasperation, she quickly ran


    away.


    With amanding presence akin to that of a matriarch, Laura smashed the wine bottle on the ground.


    Taken aback, Josie frowned as she watched. Laura was usually patient and reserved, hence her


    assertiveness that day was unexpected. She wondered if thetter had been provoked.


    When Dexter caught Morgan¡¯s subconscious gesture of protecting Josie, his eyes darkened slightly.


    Heather tugged at the corner of his clothes. ¡°Dex¡­¡±


    Dexter lowered his gaze. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    There was a cocktail party afterward, but Zach didn¡¯t attend anymore. Laura quietly touched up her


    makeup. ¡°Old Mr. Olsen has called him away.¡±


    As Zach¡¯s actions hadpletely disgraced the Olsen family, he needed to be taught a serious lesson.


    With Mark absent, the party was hosted by udia. As expected, it was to pave the way for Heather.


    Laura couldn¡¯t be bothered to listen any further. She picked up a ss of wine and handed it to


    Morgan, teasing him, ¡°Dr. Morgan, we meet again. Oh, I should call you Mr. Bastille now.¡±


    Morgan stood beside Josie, taking the wine ss without a change in expression. ¡°Ms. Brandel, are


    you feeling better now?¡±


    Lauraughed and said, ¡°Even if I¡¯m not well, I can¡¯t get you to treat me anymore.¡±


    Morgan just smiled without saying a word.


    Meanwhile, Josie¡¯s mind wasn¡¯t on their pleasantries but on udia.


    She announced on stage that Heather¡¯s art exhibition would be held next Saturday. Coincidentally, next


    Saturday was Heather¡¯s birthday, so she hoped that everyone coulde and support thetter.


    Heather was standing by the side, smiling elegantly.


    Meanwhile, Josie suddenly realized that all these years, she didn¡¯t know when her own birthday was.


    She had always designated it on the day Paul found her.


    So, next Saturday is her birthday.

 Chapter 875 Pet Dog At Olsen Residence

    Chapter 875 Pet Dog At Olsen Residence


    The waiter came over and asked, ¡°Ms. Warren, would you like to take the horse you won with you


    or¡­?¡±


    Only then did Josie remember. In response, she nced at Dexter. He had taken off his equestrian


    attire, appearing in a suit and leather shoes.


    ¡°I have nowhere to keep such a valuable horse,¡± Josie sald leisurely.¡± Let¡¯s leave it at the Olson


    residence for now. I¡¯lle back for itter.¡±


    When the time came, what would be demanded wouldn¡¯t just be a single horse.


    ¡°The cocktail party ended, and so did the show, with people asionally making their way out.


    Josie was distracted, so Morgan tapped her head with one hand. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Did you lose your


    heart in a horse race with your ex-husband?¡±


    She shot him a re, toozy to curse at him. ¡°I have to go somewhere.¡±


    ¡°Where?¡±


    Josie held onto Morgan¡¯s wrist, avoiding the crowded areas. Guided by her memory, she led them to


    the backyard of the tea garden. It was a quiet ce, devoid of people. Their haute couture attire made


    them stand out awkwardly in that setting.


    ¡°Why are we here?¡± asked Morgan.


    Josie moved forward, searching for a while, softly calling out, ¡°Pepper! Pepper!¡±


    Morgan furrowed his brows, looking around.


    In no time, a Shiba Inu came dashing out, heading straight for Josie¡¯s embrace, whimpering


    affectionately.


    Morgan took a step back, raising his eyebrows in surprise. ¡°It¡¯s your dog?¡±


    Josie cradled the head of Pepper. ¡°I suppose so.¡±


    She crouched down, cradling Pepper¡¯s face. ¡°You still remember me? You have such a good memory.


    Follow me.¡±


    Pepper stuck out its tongue, affectionately licking her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I can¡¯t visit you often, and I¡¯m not sure when I¡¯ll be able to see you next. Please take


    good care of yourself, okay? Next time, I¡¯ll bring you something tasty.¡± The look in Josie¡¯s eyes was


    sincerely earnest, without a trace of ulterior motive.


    The dog seemed to understand, licking even more vigorously.


    Josie rose to her feet, ncing at Morgan. In response, the pampered and delicate scion wore a face


    of confusion.


    Only then did she remember Morgan was afraid of dogs. ¡°It doesn¡¯t bite.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like animals,¡± said Morgan.


    ¡°You¡¯re the animal,¡± she said impatiently, dragging him away. If they stayed too long, they would be


    discovered.


    ¡°To think you have a pet dog at the Olson residence. Josie, you¡¯re quite peculiar,¡± Morgan said in a


    yful tone, allowing her to lead him.


    Josie changed the subject. ¡°I¡¯m capable, what can I say??¡±


    Once they got in the car and left the Olson residence, she seriously looked at him. Thanks to the better


    lighting, she noticed a red mark on his neck and frowned.


    She was experienced, so she knew what that was.


    She raised an eyebrow, though she didn¡¯t point out the obvious. ¡°Why didn¡¯t youe over when I was


    at the racecourse?¡±


    Morgan was already working on hisputer, not looking up. ¡°I ran into a business partner and got a


    bit tied up.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he looked up. ¡°You said you were going to the restroom, but you ended up


    on the racecourse.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. Those matters were left unspoken between the two of them, yet they both


    understood.


    She had no interest in his personal affairs. For her, all that mattered was leveraging his status. As for


    who he was involved with or who nted a hickey on his neck, it was none of her business.


    When Morgan returned home, he noticed the red mark on his neck. He instantly picked up a cup and


    smashed the mirror into pieces.


    What surfaced in his mind was the vivid image of that woman passionately kissing him in a corner of


    the Olsen residence.


    Unknowingly, she had left a mark on him.


    Ryan rushed in anxiously. ¡°Mr. Bastille, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Morgan tugged at his tie, relieving the stifling feeling in his chest. However, the moment he thought of


    Josie¡¯s question, his frustration welled up again.N?velDrama.Org content.

 Chapter 876 A Generous Gift

    Chapter 876 A Generous Gift


    Before Heather¡¯s art exhibition was held, Josie sent Angel abroad.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    On the surface, it was to deal with matters rted to the project, so no one went with Josie.


    Josie had ordered a gown a few days ago and needed to go in person to get her measurements taken.


    Morgan found the ce. It was tucked away in an obscure location, and the tailor was a renowned


    fashion- designer in Wavery.


    Taking the measurements was a tedious task as it took a full two hours toplete.


    The designerplimented, ¡°Ms. Warren, you have a great figure, perfect for a gown. Have you worn


    one before?¡±


    Josie shook her head.


    ¡°What a pity. Let¡¯s choose a color.¡±


    Over the years, Josie hadn¡¯t been fond ofplicated attire, always preferring simplicity in her clothing.


    That was the first time she had made the effort to have gown custom-made for herself, and she was


    exceptionally serious about it.


    ¡°Ivory. I like the color.¡± Josie¡¯s fingers paused on a piece of fabric.


    In fact, over the years, she rarely wore white clothes. She had to work and care for Paul. As such, her


    clothes would get dirty easily.


    Therefore, it was her first time trying out white clothing.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, you have great taste. White suits you well, said the designer.


    Josie responded, ¡°When can I see the finished garment


    ¡°Saturday. Once the clothes are ready, I¡¯ll need you toe and try them on. If they don¡¯t fit, we can


    always make adjustments.¡±


    ¡°I trust you all, and I trust Morgan¡¯s judgment,¡± Josie said with a smile, swiping her card..


    Before leaving, Josie descended from the second floor,ing face to face with a familiar figure. The


    person was carrying a Chanel bag, with a few people trailing behind them. They looked up as they


    ascended the stairs and bumped into Josie.


    The neer was shocked and instinctively withdrew her foot that was about to ascend the stairs.


    ¡°It¡¯s you.¡±


    Josie stood on the stairs. ¡°It seems you¡¯re here to try out clothes too, Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Heather clutched the chain of her bag tightly. ¡°Yeah. Dex got it for me. He said it¡¯s a birthday gift.¡±


    Her taste really aligned well with Dexter¡¯s.


    Josie remained calm. ¡°Birthday? When is it?¡±


    Heather¡¯s eyes had a hint of hesitation ¡°Saturday I recall I¡¯ve invited my mother.¡±


    ¡°Saturday?¡± Josie echoed the question.


    Heather¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°Mhm.¡±


    ¡°Can Ie then? To celebrate your birthday?¡± Josie suddenly smiled as if she knew nothing at all.


    Heather didn¡¯t rush to respond. Instead, she said, ¡°Ms. Warren, didn¡¯t you also show up uninvited at the


    jewelry exhibition a couple of days ago?¡±


    Josie nodded, ¡°That¡¯s true. Since you¡¯ve invited Morgan, I¡¯ll go with him when the timees.¡±


    After speaking, she smiled.


    Heather¡¯s grip on the chain tightened, her palms starting to sweat a little. ¡°Your rtionship with


    Morgan seems to be more than ordinary.¡±


    ¡°He is my boyfriend,¡± said Josie.


    Heather looked surprised, narrowing her eyes. ¡°Does Dex know about this?¡±


    After Heather asked, she immediately regretted it because Josie couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°If you know,


    don¡¯t you think he knows, too?¡±


    After Josie finished speaking, she began to descend the stairs. As she passed Heather, she paused


    and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I didn¡¯te empty-handed. On your birthday, I¡¯ll present you with a


    grand gift.¡±


    Those words were ordinary, but upon hearing them, Heather couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    Josie resumed her steps, gradually moving further away.


    Heather turned around, her gaze fixed on Josie¡¯s figure until it disappeared around the corner.


    ¡°Ms. Olson, what¡¯s wrong?¡± the servant asked.


    Heather pursed her lips, her palms swearing, as she impatiently said, ¡°Paper!¡±


    The servant jumped in surprise, quickly pulling out a tissue from their bag and handing it over to


    Heather. Heather ascended the stairs, vigorously wiping her hands clean. She then threw the bag,


    tainted with sweat, into the trash bin. Her entire demeanor was filled with anger and impatience.


    That shocked everyone.


    The designers exchanged nces, realizing they were dealing with ady of a difficult temperament.

 Chapter 877 A Gift

    Chapter 877 A Gift


    Before Saturday could arrive, Josie was swamped with work on her end.


    First, there wereplications with the project at the seaside hotel project, with the person in charge


    on Russell Group side being uncooperative. To put it inly, they were deliberately making things


    difficult. Josie¡¯s design draft had been revised more than a dozen times, and in the end, the other party


    smiled and said, ¡°Ms. Olsen, how about reverting to the first version?¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression changed immediately upon hearing this.


    The person felt a chill down their spine, almost expecting her to flip the table.


    However, she just smiled and said, ¡°Is it okay if I submit it tomorrow?¡±


    The person swallowed hard and nodded vigorously.


    While she was still fuming, Morgan made a call to her. She answered impatiently, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we a couple? Not seeing your boyfriend for a few days isn¡¯t normal, is it?¡± Morgan¡¯s voice came


    through, and there were other voices in the background.


    Josie replied boldly, ¡°You¡¯re taking yourself too seriously. I don¡¯t have time right now.¡±


    ¡°When will you have time?¡±


    Josie replied sarcastically, ¡°Go kill Dexter for me.¡±


    She stared at the design on theputer, gritting her teeth in frustration.


    Morgan paused for a moment, then chuckled softly. ¡°That¡¯s a bit troublesome, but it¡¯s not impossible.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t in the mood for his banter and shook her head. ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m heading to andmark in Wavery. I¡¯ve never had the chance to visit it. It¡¯s the Mandarin Oriental


    Hotel.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Mandarin Oriental Hotel was famous for its nightlife. When Josie arrived, Morgan was wearing a casual


    floral shirt. He stood at the entrance, taking photos. He looked like a carefree young master as he


    remarked, ¡°It¡¯s a whitewashed La Oriele.¡±


    Josie stepped into his shot. ¡°Mr. Bastille, did you bring a few billion here to gamble?¡±


    Morgan pressed the shutter and said, ¡°You seem pretty irritated.¡±


    ¡°If you had to revise the drafts over a dozen times, you¡¯d be irritated too.¡±


    Heughed and took her backpack, which felt heavy because of theptop.


    Morgan didn¡¯te here to gamble. He asked for a private room and sat down quietly to have a meal.


    He waited until Josie put down her fork before signaling Ryan toe over.


    He was holding a transparent box, and inside, there was a piece of porcin.


    ¡°I bought this a while ago. It¡¯s for you.¡±


    Josie was surprised. The porcin seemed to be an antique porcin bowl from the Turan dynasty It


    was finely crafted and valuable in today¡¯s market.


    She didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Why are you giving this to me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my gift for you. I picked it out carefully.¡±


    Josie looked at it closely. As a designer, she had a keen sense of these artifacts. She had learned how


    to appraise genuine items from Morgan during her university days.


    The ze on this piece flowed smoothly, and the colors were natural, almost indistinguishable from


    modern craftsmanship. But¡­.


    ¡°You¡¯re giving me a fake.¡± She saw through it immediately.


    Morgan was staring at her face all along. At this moment, hepletely gave up his act. ¡°Looks like


    you haven¡¯t forgotten what I taught you.¡±


    Josie scolded him for doing that..


    He casually took out herptop and ced it on the table. ¡°Password. Let me take a look at your


    design.¡±


    When he said this, it was as if he was back to his old ways when he taught her professionally.


    Josie reluctantly typed in the password to unlock it for him.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re a big shot, you still remember your profession?¡± she asked sarcastically.


    The design was fine; the problemy with Dexter. He was deliberately making things difficult for her


    intentionally.


    ¡°It¡¯s really hard for me now.¡± Morgan sighed. He typed a series of codes on theputer quickly. Soon,


    al surveince feed appeared on the screen. ¡°Let¡¯s see something that I can understand.¡±

 Chapter 878 Signing A Contract With The Olsen Family

    Chapter 878 Signing A Contract With The Olsen Family


    Josie squinted her eyes. The surveince footage was from a different private room in Mandarin


    Oriental Hotel.


    She had been there before with Dexter.


    In the footage, there were several people, with the man she had in mind upying the central position.


    His eyes were sharp. He had a touch of coldness and disdain yet exuded a strong presence,


    Sitting beside him was Mark, and to his right was Laura. She didn¡¯t recognize the others.


    Seeing Josie¡¯s confusion, Morgan introduced, ¡°Directors from the Olsen family and Russell Group.


    Haven¡¯t you seen them before?¡±


    With his reminder, she vaguely recalled that she had.


    ¡°Where did you get this surveince?¡±


    Being able to monitor Dexter in his own territory was a skill in itself.


    Morgan didn¡¯t answer but continued to watch the screen with aposed expression.


    Before long, someone entered the room. It was Larry, carrying some documents. He distributed them


    one by one and said, ¡°Mr. Olsen, I just received some news. It seems like Mr. Carter might not make it.


    Ms. Summer is not feeling well again.¡±


    Mark¡¯s face turned sour.


    Dexter sneered, his gaze turning icy.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, if Sum¡¯s condition can¡¯t be treated in Wavery, it might be better to send her abroad.¡± He


    casually flipped through the documents, his eyes filled with mockery.


    Mark¡¯s expression kept changing. ¡°As long as Arnold apanies her, she¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t confirm or deny it, but his tone was mocking.


    ¡°The application of artificial intelligence will inevitably hurt traditional industries first. Mr. Olsen, I


    appreciate your help in coordinating this.¡± He signed his name at the bottom of the documents without


    hesitation.


    The others followed suit after seeing him sign.


    In his chair, Mark¡¯s expression changed slightly as he stared at the documents in front of him. ¡°You


    know, I don¡¯t agree with this reform of yours.¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°You seek stability.¡±


    The older generation had their conservatism and was stubborn.


    ¡°You need the support of the Olsen family to expand into new industries. I can provide that, but there¡¯s


    one condition you know.¡± Mark leaned on his cane, looking serious.


    Dexter leaned one hand on the table, unconsciously twirling his pen.


    ¡°If you support me, by the end of the year, I¡¯ll double the Olsen family¡¯s profits for you.¡±


    Mark picked up the pen and signed the document, his face heavy. ¡°Make it public on Saturday, which is


    Jo¡¯s birthday.¡±


    After signing, he got up. Leaning on Laura¡¯s support, he left the room.


    Dexter continued to spin his pen. His face was dark and unreadable, devoid of emotion.


    The other directors bid farewell and left. It wasn¡¯t until they were gone that Dexter lifted his chin slightly,


    signaling Larry to collect all the contracts.


    The pen that had been spinning on his fingertips fell on the table with a sharp snap. He tilted his head.


    slightly, looking in the direction of the surveince cameras, his eyes empty but exuding an immense


    aura.


    Josie felt as if they were making eye contact across the screen and instinctively turned her head away.


    Morgan leisurely closed theptop. ¡°It seems like Saturday is a big day.¡±


    The image of Dexter¡¯s eyes lingered in Josie¡¯s mind. They were deep and imprable.


    ¡°I remember that Rivodia is skilled in artificial intelligence. Whether it¡¯s semiconductors or blockchain,


    you have apetitive advantage.¡±


    Morgan revealed a modest smile. ¡°Indeed. Dexter is like a moth drawn to the me.¡±


    He was too confident, and Josie frowned for no apparent reason. ¡°Russell Group has financial


    resources and support from the Olsen family. Don¡¯t underestimate them.¡±


    Moreover, there was nothing Dexter couldn¡¯t aplish.


    Morgan turned his head. ¡°Resources obtained through marriage? I¡¯m not interested.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Josie¡¯s spine stiffened.


    Morgan tapped on the table, and Ryan brought in another box.


    ¡°I never give counterfeits as gifts.¡±

 Chapter 879 Do Not Look Back

    Chapter 879 Do Not Look Back


    Josie raised an eyebrow. It was the same antique porcin bowl as before, but its quality and


    craftsmanship were undoubtedly authentic.


    Its true value was worth a city.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± Morgan asked, staring into her inquisitive eyes.


    After carefully considering the antique for a moment, Josie abruptly made a decision. ¡°Are you giving it


    to me?¡±


    ¡°Mm-hmm.¡±


    ¡°Are you really giving this to me?¡±


    ¡°Yup,¡± Morgan responded patiently.


    ¡°So, you¡¯ve given it to me. I can do whatever I want with it, right?¡±


    Seeing the cunning look on her face, Morgan had a bad feeling. He warned her, ¡°I paid eight figures for


    this.¡±


    Josie smiled as she received the antique from Ryan¡¯s hand. She hugged the bowl to herself and


    walked away, mumbling, ¡°Perfect.¡±


    Upon leaving Mandarin Oriental Hotel, she happened to see Dexter walking out, escorted by an


    entourage. His tall figure stood out among the crowd. His face showed no warmth, not even a hint of


    emotion.


    He got in his car but didn¡¯t rush off. Instead, he rolled down the window and lit up a cigarette.


    The smoke swirled before his face, obscuring his expression, much like his own fickle nature.


    Josie stood in the path of the air conditioner¡¯s current. Her hair billowed in the gusts, obscuring her


    vision.


    Judging from the footage from the surveince cameras earlier, there was a high chance that Dexter


    was nning to get engaged to Heather.


    Suddenly, she felt a strong urge to ask if he would regret his decision. Trading marriage for business


    benefits wasn¡¯t in his nature.


    But still, he went through with it. Could it be that he truly liked Heather?


    Before long, someone stood up to shield her from the Wind. A pair of hands covered her eyes, blocking


    her view of everything.


    She could only see darkness.


    Josie closed her eyes naturally and asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t look back,¡± Morgan said with a solemn tone.


    After Dexter finished smoking two cigarettes, the car, like an arrow released from its bow, quickly


    disappeared into the night.


    When Josie opened her eyes again, there was nothing but emptiness ahead.


    She curved her lips slowly and said, ¡°This is quite simple.¡±


    After much difficulty in refining the design until both parties were satisfied, Josie was finally relieved. At


    the same time, she received a few photos from Justin.


    There were several draft sketches, from which the general outlines could be discerned. However, they


    were merely vish imitations.


    There were also a few photos showing Xanthe¡¯s movements.


    ¡°She frequents casinos the most every month. Strangely enough, she has never been to the biggest


    one in Wavery.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie scoffed coldly. The biggest casino in Wavery was in Mandarin Oriental Hotel,


    which was essentially Dexter¡¯s territory. Xanthe would never dare to set foot in that ce.


    ¡°Right, she also transfers a fixed amount of money to an overseas ount every month.¡±


    Josie surmised that Xanthe most likely created the overseas ount for her son, who was living


    abroad. That¡¯s responsible of her.


    ¡°And where else does she usually go?¡± asked Josie.


    ¡°There¡¯s really not much to it¡­ but for someone as wealthy as she is, her living conditions are quite


    modest. Justin sent over a photo. In the picture, there was a small, well-maintained house and yard.


    Josie didn¡¯t doubt the authenticity of the photo. Everyone became a little sentimental as they grew old.


    ¡°What about her property?¡±


    ¡°¡­There¡¯s nothing special.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, feeling as if something was missing. ¡°Make me a list,¡± she said, ¡°I want to


    know who she interacts with every day.¡±


    In the blink of an eye, it was Saturday. Early in the morning, Josie went to pick up her gown and


    happened. to see someone from the Olsen-family leaving. It seemed they were leaving to pick up


    clothes for Heather.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, this dress suits you very well. There¡¯s no need for alterations.¡±


    The designer looked at the woman in the mirror, his expression full of awe.


    The gown Josie wore outlined her figure perfectly, leaving nothing to the imagination. Her skin was fair,


    and thus the gown color suited her well, enhancing her beauty. The buttons across her chest were


    fastened to thest one, and her winged eyes only added to her allure and charm.


    Josie casually picked up a folding fan, studying her reflection in the mirror.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    It was only today that she realized how well the gown suited her.

 Chapter 880 The White Gown

    Chapter 880 The White Gown


    Josie suddenly chuckled lightly, asking the designer, ¡°Am I beautiful?¡±


    Thetter was taken aback and quickly replied, ¡°Of course! You¡¯re gorgeous! It has been a long time


    since I¡¯ve seen a customer wear a gown so well.¡±


    Josie¡¯s usually understated beauty was now intentionally entuated, and it was breathtaking and


    impossible to ignore.


    Inside the small room, a television was broadcasting the morning financial news.


    Dexter sat in front of the camera, calmly exining the various details of his coboration with the


    Olsen family. Camera shes kept going off, but he remainedposed throughout.


    When reporters asked questions, he parried with them effortlessly, using subtle means to handle even


    the most tricky of questions.


    As expected, he had publicized his coboration today.


    Josie had her clothes put away and left in her gown, saying, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Morgan¡¯s car had been waiting at a nearby junction for quite some time. He was casually ying a


    game on his phone, not paying much attention to his surroundings. That was until Josie came over and


    leaned, down to knock on his car window.


    Morgan looked up, and once he did, he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off her.


    Her hair was all swept back, secured with a deep blue hairpin. Pearls dangled from silver threads,


    swaying with her movements. She looked like a talenteddy who had just stepped out of a vintage


    painting of olden-day Southern Rivodia.


    Morgan pressed his tongue against his cheek, clicking his tongue lightly. He opened the car door and


    commented, ¡°I¡¯m not too pleased with you showing up like this.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care about his opinion. She asked, ¡°Where are the things I told you to bring?¡±


    He pointed at the item in the passenger seat it was the antique porcin bowl.


    ¨C


    Heather¡¯s art exhibition was set in the biggest art gallery in Wavery. By the time they arrived, guests


    had already started to gather, mingling in pairs and trios with wine sses in hand.


    After Josie finished registering at the front desk, she asked Ryan to deliver the antique porcin bow!


    ¡°This is a gift for Ms. Olsen. Please don¡¯t forget to give it to her.¡±


    No sooner had she finished speaking than a slightmotion erupted outside the gallery.


    A line of luxury cars came to a halt, and the first to step out were Mark and udia, both of whom were


    dressed with great care and elegance.


    The second car carried Summer and Arnold. Herplexion didn¡¯t look good, but she still exuded a


    certain aura of elegance, thanks to her training as a socialite from a young age.


    Josie wanted tough, feeling a bit sorry for Suminer Thetter always had to attend events she didn¡¯t.


    enjoy, and ying hooky was never an option.


    ¡°Good heavens, Dexter?¡±


    ¡°Did Dexter get out of Liana¡¯s car?¡±


    ¡°What does this mean? Tsk, it seems the rumors are indeed true.¡±


    The incessant chatter filled the air. Josie followed the sound with her gaze, seeing Dexter leading


    Heather by the hand as they descended from another car. Every gesture he made exuded nobility and


    elegance. Dressed in a white shirt and ck pants, his attire was far from formal. It could even be


    considered his regr daily attire.


    Even in such a situation, he was holding Heather¡¯s hand.


    Heather towered on stilettos today and also wore a white gown. Her figure was exquisite, and her


    expression subtly charming..


    Under everyone¡¯s attentive gaze, Heather revealed a shy smile.


    Josie¡¯s brow twitched.


    Morgan leaned in and whispered into her ear, ¡°Your outfit. It¡¯s quite clever. The pattern may be different,


    but the colors are the same.¡±


    He chuckled lightly and added, ¡°She¡¯s not as pretty as you.¡±


    As they were speaking, a few people had already entered the hall. Josie and Morgan stepped aside,


    making way for them.


    As Dexter held Heather¡¯s hand, he passed by Josie, giving her a meaningful look.


    Josie shifted her gaze away, not returning his stare.


    Morgan went off to socialize. Josie didn¡¯t like mingling with strangers and lingered in front of the art


    exhibition.


    Suddenly, someone tapped her left shoulder. She turned to look, but the person appeared on her right.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± she asked.


    It was Laura.


    She was in charge of the art exhibition and had arrived bright and early at the venue.


    Josie took a sip of her champagne and replied, ¡°I¡¯m here to appreciate the talent of a great painter


    Laura scoffed lightly.

 Chapter 881 Summer Fears Her

    Chapter 881 Summer Fears Her


    She was rich since childhood and, thus, had a basic ability to appreciate its value.


    She gave a sidelong nce. ¡°It¡¯s not worth much. What¡¯s valuable is her identity.¡±


    Josie nced at the notice board nearby. It clearly stated that after the exhibition, there would be a


    small auction. All proceeds from the auction would be donated entirely to impoverished mountainous


    regions.


    ¡°If you say it like that, won¡¯t she get angry?¡±


    Laura propped her chin with one hand, ncing at Heather, who was being entertained by Mark. ¡°She?


    She has no say in matters, not like Summer.¡±


    Her tone was dismissive, not showing the slightest bit of respect.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Josie suddenly asked.


    Laura was taken aback. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Do you have more say than Summer now?¡±


    Josie¡¯s pupils were pitch ck, and she looked at her very seriously.


    ¡°Me?¡± Laura let out a sheepishugh. ¡°I¡¯m just an outsider, working for them and doing their bidding. I


    don¡¯t really count.¡±


    ***


    ¡°I must say, you seem quite capable. You should give it a try.¡±


    Laura¡¯s smile turned somewhat awkward. She didn¡¯t ask what specifically was being tested.


    After chatting with her for a while, Josie excused herself to the restroom. As she walked down the sun-


    drenched corridor, a sudden argument echoed from a corner.


    ¡°I disagree. We¡¯ve reached this point. There¡¯s no turning back now.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    It was unmistakably the voice of Arnold.


    Josie stood still, spotting two familiar figures. She subtly positioned herself to stay out of their sight.


    Summer¡¯s mental state was still not very good, her exhaustion visible to the naked eye. ¡°Arnold, I can¡¯t


    wait any longer.¡±


    She lit a cigarette in frustration. ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of this life. Do you know how that b*tch looks at me?


    She¡¯s taken everything from me! That b*tch. I¡¯m leaving. I¡¯m leaving right now!¡±


    ¡°Summer!¡± Arnold grabbed her wrist as she was about to light the fire, his voice lowered. ¡°Don¡¯t forget.


    None of this belongs to her, nor to you.¡±


    Summer fell silent. Her eyes widened, filled with boundless fear.


    Arnold shook her off. ¡°If you can tolerate it, then endure. If you can¡¯t, I¡¯ll find a way to make you


    disappear


    At the end of his words, there was an unmistakable threat. He was clearly not referring to a simple


    ¡°disappearance¡±


    Summer staggered back several steps, her hand on her forehead. She paced restlessly back and forth,


    finally gritting her teeth and saying, ¡°Then you figure out a way to get Josie away from Morgan. I saw


    her again today! Arnold! Every time I see her, I can¡¯t control myself. I feel like I¡¯m going crazy!¡±


    The irritation in her words was not concealed in the slightest.


    ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t want to?¡± Arnold growled. ¡°I want Morgan to disappear more than anyone else!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not Morgan, it¡¯s Josie.¡± Summer clutched his arm, her tone almost pleading. ¡°I want her gone.


    She¡¯s like an omnipresent devil!¡±


    Josie stood not far away, her brows slightly furrowed and a chill running down her back. Summer


    definitely despises me. That much is certain. But now, it isn¡¯t just disdain she¡¯s feeling. It¡¯s fear. Why?


    Josie wanted to keep watching, but unexpectedly, Arnold lost his patience. He nced around,


    grabbed Summer¡¯s hand, and they left.


    She stood in the sunlight, racking her brains.


    ¡°Ms. Warren.¡± A voice suddenly came from behind.


    Josie was on edge, and that sudden shock made her jump, draining the color from her face.


    Larry was surprised. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    She forced herself to stay calm. ¡°I should be the one asking you that. What are you doing here?¡±


    Larry squeezed out a smile. ¡°Mr. Russell is asking for you.¡±


    Inside the lounge, the table was filled with documents, suggesting a recent flurry of activity.


    Suddenly, the lights were switched off, plunging Josie intoplete darkness. Immediately afterward, a


    pair of warm,rge handsnded on her waist, pressing her against the door.

 Chapter 882 Birthday

    Chapter 882 Birthday


    ¡°Um-¡±


    Josie barely had time to catch her breath before their lips passionately intertwined. Hisrge hand


    gripped her slender waist, rendering her unable to move.


    She struggled fiercely, but his strength was too much for her.


    Exhausted from the struggle, she no longer had the energy to resist. She numbly allowed him to


    proceed with his actions.


    ¡°What will happen if others find out that the future son-inw of the Olsen family is currently kissing his


    ex-wife?¡± Her tone was casual.


    The man before her paused slightly and then he parted his lips,nding them on her cheeks, again and


    again. ¡°Do you want others to know?¡±


    Eyes damp, she red at him. She was wearing a gown, which restricted her movements. Otherwise,


    she would have definitely kicked him.


    ¡°You look beautiful in the gown,¡± Dexter suddenly said, cradling her face.


    The two were entwined, two buttons of her gown undone, and his white shirt also wrinkled in the


    tussle..


    Josie remained unmoved. ¡°What¡¯s the point, Dexter? After you marry Heather, will you still be


    entangled with me like this?¡±


    Dexter slowly lifted his gaze, inexplicably feeling that she had truly grown on him. Every part of her had


    found a ce in his heart, making everyone else seem interesting inparison.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. Every time you show up with Morgan, I will take action.¡±


    He was simply crazy.


    Josie took a deep breath, inhaling the sandalwood scent from him. It was a fragrance meant to soothe,


    yet at that moment, it left her mind in a haze.


    Looking at the rosary beads on his wrist, she said, ¡°When you get married, throw these rosary beads


    away. They¡¯re mine, and I won¡¯t give them to someone like you.¡±


    Dexter followed her gaze, not paying much attention. He bent his head and continued to kiss, the room


    filled with an ambiguous atmosphere.¡±


    Josie¡¯s vision blurred.


    It seemed as if he asked something, but she didn¡¯t catch it. Suddenly, she felt a sharp pain in her neck.


    He had bitten her. Josie snapped back to reality, frowning. ¡°What the f*ck!¡±


    ¡°I asking if you¡¯ve slept with Morgan.¡± He was gripping her neck, his eyes slightly narrowed. The desire


    to possess her filled his chest.


    Josie suddenly understood. He probably noticed the lingering marks on Morgan¡¯s neck.


    She suddenly smiled. ¡°Dexter, if I destroy your most cherished possession one day, will you kill me?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened a bit, and his tone intensified. ¡°If you dare to sleep with him, I will kill you.¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t answered him, yet that was actually also a kind of response. At that moment, he was


    mostly feeling disheartened.


    ¡°You better not have,¡± he said in a deep voice.


    The sound of knocking from behind the door was close. ¡°Mr. Russell, Mr. Olsen is urging you.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, his expression unchanged as he locked eyes with Josie.


    She nced stubbornly to the side.


    Since there was no response, the person outside the door knocked twice more. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you


    there?¡±


    Dexter withdrew his hand, freeing Josie, who took a deep breath of fresh air.


    She watched his upright figure, stepped forward, and suddenly embraced him from behind, speaking in


    a soft voice.


    ¡°Dexter, today is Liana¡¯s birthday. It seems like you¡¯ve never celebrated my birthday before.¡±


    Suddenly, she lowered her stance. The tone of her voice pierced Dexter¡¯s heart, causing him a pang of


    pain. He furrowed his brows. ¡°There will be in the future.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t be the same.¡±


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I will eventually celebrate with you,¡± he said, his tone casual. No one knew the determination behind


    his words.


    The knocking on the door persisted. Josie turned around, unlocked the door, and said in a soft voice, ¡°I


    don¡¯t want it anymore.¡±


    The worker outside the door was taken aback for a good while when he saw a womaning out from


    inside.


    Josie¡¯s expression was stern. ¡°Do you have a death wish?¡±


    The staff was stumped. ¡°I¡­¡±


    Josie strode away, fastening the buttons of her gown as she went. As she turned the corner, she ran


    into Heather. It seemed as if she had been waiting for a long time.


    Dressed in outfits of the same color, it wasn¡¯t clear who had the upper hand.

 Chapter 883 Celebrating Her Birthday

    Chapter 883 Celebrating Her Birthday


    The emotions in Heather¡¯s eyes were incrediblyplex. Her lips parted as though she wanted to say


    something. Yet, not a single word came out of her mouth.


    As the early autumn wind blew in, both the women¡¯s hair fluttered. They stood facing each other like


    two parasol trees.


    Josie only halted for a moment before moving past her. When she walked by, Heather caught the scent


    of sandalwood on her.


    She had also once smelled the same scent on Dexter.


    ¡°Why are you spacing out here, Leanne? Where¡¯s Dex?¡± udia¡¯s voice came from behind her,


    breaking the silence.


    Mark and udia stood hand in hand at the end of the corridor, looking at her with great tenderness.


    Heather snapped back to reality and walked forward. ¡°He¡¯ll be here soon, I think.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie continued forging ahead without looking back.


    Ultimately, that gentle call of ¡°Leanne¡± was never meant for her.


    When she returned to the main hall, the guests had gradually gathered in groups of two and three.


    Nheless, they were still exchanging pleasantries.


    Morgan extricated himself from his conversation and walked over to Josie. ¡°Where were you?¡±


    ¡°The restroom.¡±


    As she said that, she arranged her hair to cover the bite mark left by Dexter, all the while subtly


    scanning her surroundings. Arnold was still there, but Summer was gone.


    A n formed in her mind.


    ¡°Here ites! It¡¯s starting!¡± Suddenly, there was amotion around them.


    Josie and Morgan both turned their attention to the stage. Mark had his cane in hand and a benevolent


    smile on his face. He spoke into the microphone, saying, ¡°Thank you all foring to support Liana


    today. As you all know, she¡¯s the apple of my eye. I thank everyone here for giving her this courtesy.¡±


    The speech revealed his identity and signified his respect for everyone present, evidence of his deep.


    affection for his daughter.


    The guests below the stage burst into apuse.


    Josie pped along feebly, her expression cid.


    ¡°Today is Leanne¡¯s birthday. She¡¯s turning twenty-four years old. Since she went missing, we hadn¡¯t


    celebrated her birthday for many years. This year, we can finally fulfill our dream.¡± As Mark spoke, tears


    welled up in his eyes. ¡°From now on, I will throw her a grand birthday celebration each year! There¡¯ll be


    no more regrets!¡±


    Below the stage, apuse rang out once more.


    Morgan snickered. ¡°Well, how grand.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t describe her feelings then. There was only a sense of numbness within her. It was as


    though. there was a hole in her heart in which the wind was relentlessly blowing.


    Once Mark had finished speaking, Heather, who had been waiting quietly at the side, had already eked


    out. a few tears. She ran up and threw herself into his arms. ¡°Thank you, Dad.¡±


    Mark gently patted her on the head. Then, a staff member timely turned off the lights in the hall. Amidst.


    the darkness, someone wheeled a cake over, and a sweet rendition of ¡°Happy Birthday¡± began ying.


    Surprisingly, the person wheeling the cake over was Dexter.


    He was still dressed in the same white shirt and ck pants. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows,


    revealing his solid muscles.


    The seven or eight-tiered cake was lit with candles, creating a very warm and cozy atmosphere.


    Everyone below the stage sang ¡°Happy Birthday¡± in unison.


    Josie didn¡¯t bother opening her mouth. She pped numbly in the darkness, ayer of frost nketing


    aher eyes.


    Heather has a powerful and influential fianc¨¦, a well-to-do family, kind and gentle parents, a group of


    guests below the stage willing to pander to her, and the identity of the daughter of an elite family. How


    enviable and fanciful. Her hardships of the past two decades can all be forgotten. Is she happy now?


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Heather looked at the cake in delight, clearly beyond happy.


    She sped her hands together and closed her eyes before the candles. She made a wish for a good


    while before finally blowing out the candles.


    Subsequently, the lights were turned back on.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Morgan asked, stretching out a hand to shield her from the light.

 Chapter 884 The Concept Of The Painting

    Chapter 884 The Concept Of The Painting


    Josie gradually adapted to the light, squirting slightly. On the stage, the trio jointly held the handle of the


    knife and cut the cake together.


    Dexter was calm andposed. His passion in the room earlier was all but gone, and he was


    restrained and aloof.


    Heather was surrounded in the center, and it wouldn¡¯t be an exaggeration to say she was a princess.


    As Josie looked at Dexter, he returned her gaze. She wasn¡¯t sure if she was seeing things, but she


    discerned at sense of warmth in his eyes.


    She then nced below the stage again. udia was also wearing a gown that day, and it was azure


    blue. The woman was looking at Heather with a smile on her face.


    ¡°Nothing much. I just feel that some things in this world are truly unfair.¡±


    With a light scoff, Josie found a corner to sit down. Meanwhile, the atmosphere on the stage remained


    as lively as ever.


    Morgan¡¯s gaze fell on her reddened ankles. ¡°Do your feet hurt?¡±


    At his remark, Josie btedly realized that her high heels were too small, leaving her fair ankles


    covered in red marks.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Morgan then crouched down and took her shoes off for her. As hisrge hands covered her ankles, a


    cooling sensation washed over them.¡±


    Instinctively, Josie shrank back and looked around. ¡°This isn¡¯t quite proper.¡±


    Morgan also darted his eyes around. ¡°Who cares about you right now?¡±


    Thatment hit home, for everyone¡¯s eyes were indeed on Heather.


    Thus, Josie allowed him to do as he pleased.


    Morgan ced her feet on his legs, intermittently kneading them. His movements were gentle, as


    though he was handling a precious treasure.


    Still, Josie still felt a bit ufortable entrusting her feet to someone else and instinctively wanted to


    pull them back. ¡°Okay, that¡¯s enough-¡±


    Morgan pinned her feet down. ¡°It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t seen them before.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Words eluded Josie.


    On the stage, things had progressed to the auction segment. The host introduced the few paintings that


    would be sold that day and quickly went into the bidding phase.


    Heather sat below the stage, but Dexter was not by his side. He seemed uninterested in attending such


    an event.


    The bidding below the stage was intense. It was all wealthy heirs, for they wouldn¡¯t dare disrespect the


    Olsen family and their daughter even if it were to win their support.


    For that reason, this price shot exceptionally high.


    Josie saw that even Arnold had bid twice.


    But in the end, the winning bidder was a woman from the socialite circles. She seemed to havee


    prepared with ample funds.


    ¡°What about you? Do you not like paintings?¡± Josie asked casually, retracting her feet.


    She remembered that Morgan used to love collecting such items. If he found something he liked, he


    would go to great lengths to buy it, no matter the distance.


    Morgan sat beside her. Looking at the painting on the screen, he scoffed, ¡°I only collect paintings of


    value.¡±


    Josie almost burst intoughter.


    Soon, it was the final painting. Instead of hurrying into the bidding phase, the host invited Heather on


    the stage.


    ¡°This final painting of ¡°The Moon, My Confidant¡¯ has just won the 11th Magnolia Awards in Wavery two


    days ago. Today, Ms. Olsen is willing to put this painting up for public auction, giving us an opportunity


    to hear about her design concept for this piece.¡±


    The guests below the stage broke out into apuse once more.


    Heather shyly stepped onto the stage, looking incredibly dazzling under the spotlight.


    ¡°Winning this award was really a stroke of luck. There¡¯s still a lot I need to learn.¡± Heather turned


    sideways. ¡°I drew this painting during my most difficult time. I¡¯m not afraid to admit that I couldn¡¯t even


    afford a meal at that time. What kept me going was the person I love. Every night, I would gaze at the


    moon, reminiscing our past, imagining what he might be doing, and if he were thinking of me. That was


    how I managed to pull through, bit by bit.¡±


    Nearing the end of it, tears even welled up in her eyes.


    It turned out to be a romantic and poignant love story.


    In the lounge in the same building, a cup of coffee was ced before Dexter with steam wafting off it.


    The woman on the stage seemed to be confessing her feelings to him, but all that was in his mind was


    Morgan holding Josie¡¯s feet.

 Chapter 885 Accused Of Plagiarism

    Chapter 885 used Of giarism


    Meanwhile, Josie was almost convinced by what she heard.


    She gazed at the painting for a long time, admiring the deep blue tones, the smoke rising in the small


    town, and a crescent moon hanging overhead. From an artistic appreciation perspective, it indeed


    holds some value, but s-


    Someone in the audience teased, ¡°So, did you two end up together?¡±


    Heather¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Haven¡¯t you all seen it?¡±


    The mor from the audience grew even more intense.


    The bidding had begun.


    In order to show their support, the audience bid back and forth for several rounds until the bid reached


    one million.


    It was a high price, yetpared to her previous paintings, it seemed rather ordinary, for it was less


    than half of what she usually got.


    Heather nestled in udia¡¯s arms, not sensing anything amiss initially.


    Josie saw someone raising a sign for one million and ten thousand.


    The woman from the socialite section, however, did not try to outbid it. She was looking down at her


    phone, not making a move.


    The situation was a bit awkward, but thankfully, the host was used to handling such grand events.


    Holding the microphone, he politely asked, ¡°Is there anyone else who would like to raise the bid? All


    proceeds from today¡¯s auction will be donated to impoverished mountainous regions.¡±


    A soft murmur arose from below, but no one raised their bidding paddle again.


    Going to such lengths to support someone was eptable, but it was simply not worth it to spend a


    fortune on a painting that held no value for collection.


    The unusual silence caught the attention of those in the lounge.


    It was as if Josie could feel that particr burning gaze silently creep in.


    I wonder what kind of expression Dexter is wearing while watching this scene.


    She actually felt somewhat excited.


    Thedy from the socialite zone received a message. She nced down at it, yet she still did not raise


    her bidding paddle.


    The auctioneer on stage gripped the gavel, cold sweat trickling down his forehead. It seems that today,


    this painting will be sold at an extremely low price¡­


    ¡°One million and ten thousand going once!¡±


    The phone in Josie¡¯s pocket suddenly vibrated. She took it out and nced at the screen. It was a


    message from Angel: I¡¯ve arrived.


    ¡°One million and ten thousand going twice!¡±


    She put it back, slipped the tip of her toe back into her shoe, and stood again in her high heels. From


    that angle, she could see Heather¡¯s restless demeanor.


    On one side, Mark¡¯s solemn face seemed to have gained a touch of authority.


    ¡°One million and ten thousand¡­¡±


    Just as the gavel was about to fall, a voice suddenly rang out from outside. ¡°Apologies, this painting


    cannot be auctioned off!¡±


    It was spoken resonantly in Uprian.


    Everyone¡¯s gazended on a foreign woman with blonde hair who appeared to be in her twenties or


    thirties. She briskly walked in, with a girl keeping pace behind her.


    The foreign woman was scowling, her presence prompting some in the crowd to discreetly raise their


    phones. After all, she was a renownedndscape painter from abroad.


    Someone gasped softly.


    Josie stood in the corner, tilting her head slightly. She was relishing in Heather¡¯s current state-thetter


    had turned pale and was trembling.


    When the confused udia looked at Heather, thetter could only respond with a helpless shake of


    her head.


    No one could stop the foreign woman. She had already stepped forward, projecting the materials she


    brought onto the big screen.


    ¡°This painting is the most meaningful of all my works, never before exhibited publicly. Today, I am


    shocked to learn that someone has giarized my artwork for profit. I am deeply angered, and I will


    ensure that the giarist pays an appropriate price!¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    She was fierce and upromising. She didn¡¯t hold back and had no intention of showing a shred of


    mercy.


    Heather could barely stand, almost needing someone to prop her up.


    The people gathered that day were all prominent figures of Wavery. Their witnessing the drama was as


    good as it bingmon knowledge within their social circle.


    Liana¡­ used of giarism¡­ at her own birthday party¡­

 Chapter 886 Ruining Her Life

    Chapter 886 Ruining Her Life


    ¡°No¡­ I didn¡¯t¡­¡± As weakness gripped her body, Heather attempted to meekly herself to udia and


    Mark.


    Both of them looked upset, as the situation was getting out of control.


    There were countless photos being yed on the screen.


    Suddenly, Heather realized something. Her gaze swept around until it finally settled on a figure to her


    rear left. A white silhouette stood there with her chest puffed. The figure shed a faint smile, eyes


    glistening in schadenfreude.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie simply looked at Heather and smiled, then she mouthed the words across the distance. ¡°Happy


    Birthday.¡±


    Heather¡¯s vision went dark. She could no longer hold herself up as shepletely passed out.


    Another wave of chaos ensued.


    Josie closed her eyes and said to herself, ¡°Happy birthday, Liana. I¡¯m sorry. I just found out today is


    your birthday.¡±


    When she opened her eyes again, what she saw were a pair of eyes, cold yet filled with rage, staring at


    her from a distance.


    Two hourster, the venue was emptied. All the artworks were organized and stored away. The


    painting suspected of giarism was also taken down and handed over to thewyers to deal with.


    Heather was taken to the hospital, with udia and Laura apanying her. Mark, however, returned


    to the Olsen Residence alone.


    With the ce emptied out, there was a deste air, to it.


    Josie remained standing in ce, with Morgan by her side. After an unknown amount of time, she


    finally moved. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°This drama has really worn me out,¡± he said, expressionless, as he ced his hand on her shoulder


    and gently patted it tofort her.


    Upon reaching the entrance, Morgan went to fetch the car, while Josie stood by the roadside. However,


    she was stopped by someone. All the bodyguards from the establishment sprang into action, solely


    preventing her from leaving.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ms. Warren. You cannot leave today.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hand trembled slightly as she said in a deep voice, ¡°Tell Dexter not to don¡¯t go too far!¡±


    The bodyguard was in a bind. ncing in the direction where Morgan was driving from, he quickly


    said, ¡°Ms. Warren, please don¡¯t put us in a difficult position. We¡¯re just trying to do our duty.¡±


    It was still the same room, with the lights turned off and the curtains tightly drawn. Barely a sliver of


    light could be seen.


    Josie sat on the couch, her back still perfectly straight. If one looked closely, one could see a trail of


    blood at the corner of her mouth. Because it had coagted, it was startlingly noticeable.


    A slender figure stood in front of her, blocking her way. The deep voice was filled with unconceble


    anger.


    ¡°How long have you been nning this?¡±


    ¡°Less than two weeks,¡± she said, feeling a sting in her mouth while speaking.


    Who would have thought that just a few hours ago, she was kissed by him right here, and now, the


    scene. was so different it felt ironic.


    Dexter let out a snigger. ¡°You¡¯re quite capable, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    She didn¡¯t reply.


    ¡°How did you know she giarized?¡±


    ¡°I deliberately left an art book for her, guessing that she would copy the paintings in it. All I needed to


    know was which one she chose, and I had someone locate the original.¡±


    It was a meticulously crafted n, or to be more precise, a trap to draw Heather in.


    ¡°After that, you arranged for Morgan to bribe my people not to bid, right?¡± He hit the nail on the head,


    for it wasn¡¯t difficult to guess.


    Dexter crouched down, gently caressing the red mark on her face. He sounded as if he was sighing.


    ¡°Why did you do this?¡±


    ¡°Actually, she had every chance to avoid this oue, if only she hadn¡¯t giarized.¡± Josie wanted to


    laugh, but the corner of her mouth hurt when she tried to smile. ¡°But she did giarize, and this is what


    she deserves!¡±


    The moment the words were spoken, Dexter¡¯s caressing touch turned into a grip. He tightened it as his


    rage reached its peak. ¡°What does this have anything to do with you, Josie? Do you know that you¡¯ve


    ruined her life?¡±

 Chapter 887 They Are Not The Same

    Chapter 887 They Are Not The Same


    On Heather¡¯s twenty-fourth birthday, amidst the dream celebration everyone had crafted for her, Josie


    ruthlessly ruined it by humiliating her and making her the subject of gossip for a lifetime.


    News of the event could no longer be contained, and it was bound to spread throughout the city soon.


    Presumably, Heather would never want to celebrate her birthday again in her lifetime.


    ¡°You¡¯re more ruthless than I am.¡±


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes, falling like heavy raindrops onto the back of her hand due to the pain.


    Yet she remained defiant. ¡°It¡¯s you who taught me to hit someone where it hurts.¡±


    In pitch darkness, Dexter stared at her, wishing he could kill her, yet his heart ached just as intensely.


    ¡°Why has ite to this?¡± He pushed her away. ¡°Are you happy ruining her life? The Josie I know


    wouldn¡¯t stoop to this level.¡±


    These words struck Josie to her core. She parted her lips and tilted her head back. ¡°Are you surprised?


    You must be heartbroken now. I¡¯ve ruined your princess. Her life is over. But what about me? What


    about my life?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s side profile was rigid, the veins on the back of his hand slowly subsiding. ¡°You are not the


    same.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s different?¡±


    Josie added quickly, ¡°Just because she¡¯s Liana and I¡¯m Josie, you can always amodate whatever


    she does, while I¡¯m always to be med, right? Yes, she¡¯s the daughter of the family. Of course it¡¯s


    different. And me? I¡¯m worth nothing to you. If my life is ruined, so be it, right?¡±


    As she spoke, she moved closer to him. Tears streaming down her pale face, shepelled him to


    remember that very moment.


    How could you treat someone you love like this?


    ¡°For you, Liana is the only thing that matters.¡±


    In the dim light, she looked so fragile that she might shatter with the slightest touch.


    He breathed slowly in the darkness. As he reached out to touch her face, his hand felt dampness.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    She remained silent, her breathing somewhat heavy.


    He spoke in a muted voice. ¡°She has been lost for many years, hardly experiencing any happiness. I


    owe her. My past with her is different and iparable to ours, so don¡¯tpare them.¡±


    ¡°It sounds like I deserved that p.¡±


    Dexter said, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be ying these mind games.¡±


    Hmm, she¡¯s being crafty.


    ¡°I ruin your partnership, didn¡¯t I?¡± she asked, looking up.


    Dexter gently wiped away the tears from her face, his Catholic rosaries asionally brushing against


    her skin, giving her a cold sensation.


    Josie thought to herself, D*mn it, even at this point, I still have a soft spot for him.


    ¡°Dexter, I¡¯ve always been curious. What kind of person am I in your eyes?¡±


    What kind of person?


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Dexter was reminded again of the first time he saw Josie. She was sitting by the roadside, having just


    finished a phone call and crying so hard that she could barely catch her breath. Her face was flushed


    red. When she finished crying, she wiped away her tears with the back of her hand and opened her


    laptop to continue working.


    Just like that, her resilience allowed her to grow on him. Over the next two years, they went through a


    lot together, yet nothing could truly knock her down. She remained strong and beautiful no matter what.


    Sometimes, she would act a bit naughty. In his presence, she would asionally be like a young girl,


    and at other times, she would exude the demeanor of a mature woman.


    Dexter closed his eyes, and all that came to mind now were her virtues.


    ¡°When you are ungrateful and treacherous, it makes me want to kill you,¡± he whispered in the


    darkness.


    After hearing that, Josie fell silent. ¡°I¡¯m not always ungrateful. You know, when we divorced, it was for


    your own good.¡±


    After a long while, Dexter finally responded with a hum.


    It was as if the two of them were embarked on paths so divergent that there was no turning back.

 Chapter 888 The Birthday Gift Is A Forgery

    Chapter 888 The Birthday Gift Is A Forgery


    Dexter wouldn¡¯t let her leave.


    When Morgan bombarded her with messages, she wasn¡¯t sure how she should deal with him.


    Josie, staying in the room arranged by Dexter, replied word by word: I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll survive.


    Morgan called directly, but she didn¡¯t pick up. Instead, she asked, ¡°How is Heather?¡±


    A voice message came through in reply. On it, Morgan scoffed, ¡°Lying in the hospital and getting an IV


    drip. udia is by her side.¡±


    Heather had lost consciousness for a full three hours. When she woke up, she just stared nkly at the


    ceiling, unwilling to speak.


    When udia arrived in the ward, the attendant was just bringing in the day¡¯s gift list for her to review.


    She nced at it and said, ¡°Take it away.¡±


    ¡°Right Away.¡±


    An epiphany suddenly crossed udia¡¯s mind. She furrowed her brows and raised her hand. ¡°Let me


    see it again.¡±


    The attendant handed it over again.


    She scanned through the list until she saw Josie¡¯s name. The gift thetter sent was an antique


    porcin bowl.


    udia nced at the girl in the ward, let out a soft sigh, and ultimately didn¡¯t go in. ¡°Take me to see


    it,¡± she said.


    The attendant led the way, taking her to the storeroom.


    The gift from Josie sat quietly under the light, amidst a cloud of dust.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    udia took out the piece of porcin and carefully examined it in her hand. Her eyebrows furrowed.


    ¡°A counterfeit¡­¡±


    Based on her understanding of Josic, she would never be negligent in this regard, nor would she


    present a counterfeit.


    Nevertheless, udia was certain that the piece of porcin was indeed a fake.


    udia couldn¡¯t figure out the reason. After a long time, she realized that she seemed to understand


    Josie more than she understood Liana.


    That day was a good example. She never imagined that Liana would giarize, doing something that


    completely disgraced the Olsen family.


    She let out a soft sigh, left the storeroom, and took a detour to the study.


    Inside, the light was dim. Mark sat in front of a massive bookshelf, smoking one cigarette after another.


    udia stepped forward softly, gently removing the cigarette from his mouth. ¡°It¡¯s not good for your


    health.¡±


    Mark¡¯s eyes were dry and looked extremely tired. He leaned on her, letting out a heavy sigh. ¡°Cloud, is


    this child our punishment?¡±


    After a moment of silence, udia gently stroked his hunched back. ¡°It¡¯s our fault. We didn¡¯t raise her


    well. We are responsible.¡±


    Adjusting his sses, Mark said, ¡°Even the capricious Sum would never do such a thing¡­¡±


    This humiliating situation has utterly disgraced the Olsen family!


    ¡°She¡¯s our child. We should give her our utmost care, don¡¯t you think?¡± Sheforted him softly, ¡°Let¡¯s


    take it slow. For the time being, I won¡¯t go to the monastery and stay at home instead.¡±


    Thanks to Dexter, Josie came to realize that behind the art gallery was a vast manor. Upon opening the


    room door, she could see streets crisscrossing in all directions.


    She had heard that it used to be an ancient vige, which waster abandoned and transformed into


    an art gallery. Due to its sprawling area, there was a massive space left unused at the back, which was


    later turned into a holiday manor by investors.


    The autumn rain drizzled down. Apanied by gusts of cold wind, it created an atmosphere of


    destion.


    When Josie saw Dexter again, it was already two dayster, and the swelling on her face had


    subsided. somewhat.


    Two of them were sitting on a raft. The boatman simply assumed they were tourists on vacation,


    enthusiastically introducing the scenery. Dexter stared at theke¡¯s surface, not knowing how much he


    was actually taking in.


    Instead, Josie seemed quite intrigued. ¡°Really? Is it really that special? Can that tree actually grant


    wishes?¡±


    In the center of theke, there stood a century-old tree, adorned with red ribbons. These were hung by


    visitors who came to make their wishes.


    ¡°Of course. Otherwise, there wouldn¡¯t be so many peopleing year after year,¡± said the boatman.

 Chapter 889 Compensation

    Chapter 889 Compensation


    ¡°People often think that more people means it¡¯s better, but that¡¯s not always the case,¡± Josie said,


    propping up her face and speaking earnestly.


    The boatman chuckled at her innocence. ¡°Everyone has their own desires in life. If you have any, you


    can give it a try.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond but turned her head to look at the tall man on the deck. He was seated, but there


    was nowhere to put his legs. ¡°Mr. Russell, ¡®do you have any?¡±


    Dexter nced at her, clearly unwilling to answer that question.


    She continued on her own, ¡°Well, with your wealth, you can have whatever you want. Let me guess, do


    you wish for Heather¡¯s well-being?¡±


    ording to Laura, the rumor mill was buzzing about this matter in their circle. Heather hadn¡¯t been


    seen outside for several days, and Summer had taken delight in her misery.


    The man frowned. ¡°Josie.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t angry, but he was getting impatient. Yet, he didn¡¯t explode in anger and remained indifferent,


    leaving her in a state of uncertainty.


    Josie was getting a bit impatient. He could afford to waste time, but she couldn¡¯t.


    She couldn¡¯t wait to leave.


    Unfortunately, the boat was moving at a leisurely pace, and time was passing slowly.


    Dexter didn¡¯t know if he was taking advantage of the remote location, forcibly keeping her here.


    Whenever he had spare time, he would go to the art gallery to look at paintings. When he was busy, he


    would lock her in the room, apanying him to work.


    When the boat reached the shore, he suddenly became interested again and took her to explore the


    streets. and alleys, searching for the unique local snacks of Wavery.


    At this time of the year, there were indeed few tourists. Most shops were closed, with the shopkeepers


    taking naps in their rooms. They finally found a shop that was open. It was clean, and the menu was


    posted on the wall with clear prices.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Dexter was still ncing at the menu when Josie took the initiative to sit down as she was tired. She


    immediately made her order, ¡°Peanut noodles. strawberry crepe, and honey roast duck.¡±


    Thedy boss quickly wrote it down and praised, in the local dialect, ¡°The youngdy is very good at


    ordering.¡±


    Josie replied with a smile in the same dialect, ¡°I¡¯m a local.¡±


    Thedy boss looked at the distinguished man and asked, ¡°What would you like, sir?¡±


    Despite his obviously young appearance, she couldn¡¯t help but address him with ¡°sir.¡±


    Dexter frowned slightly and looked at the woman who was already seated. ¡°Same as her.¡±


    These dishes were all sweet, and Dexter had never liked sweet things. After tasting a few bites, he


    didn¡¯t touch them anymore. However, Josie was enjoying them, especially the honey roast duck, which


    she had several helpings of.


    Dexter mocked, ¡°Have you always had such a varied taste?¡±


    Josie raised her eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were talking about food at first. Sorry.¡±


    His expression darkened a few shades.


    She continued to eat. ¡°I love sweets. I,always feel there¡¯s something to look forward to when I eat


    something sweet. When I was in school, Pop used to buy them for me. If I did well in my homework, I¡¯d


    get ice cream, and if I got top marks in my exams, I¡¯d get honey roast duck. But Justin never had this.


    treatment because he was bad at studying.¡± She bit her fork andughed, reminiscing about the past.


    She wasn¡¯t sure how much Dexter had taken it. He casually got up and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to the


    restroom.¡±


    The streets were winding and not easy to navigate. Thedy boss led him into her own home, afraid he


    might find it simple. When Dexter came out of the restroom, he didn¡¯t rush to leave. Instead, he took a


    detour and entered the kitchen.


    Thedy boss was busy cooking, and the exhaust fan was humming. Suddenly seeing Dexter, she was


    startled. ¡°Young man, can¡¯t you find your way out?¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows tightly. He took out his phone and scanned a QR code before saying,


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, can you make another serving of honey roast duck?¡±

 Chapter 890 Learning To Cook For Her

    Chapter 890 Learning To Cook For Her


    Thedy boss was surprised but then cheerfully said, ¡°Sure, wait outside. I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    However, Dexter didn¡¯t budge, and his brows furrowed even more. ¡°No, Ma¡¯am. Can I watch you


    cook?¡±


    Thedy boss was surprised, and she forgot to stir the dish.


    ¡°Why would you want to learn? You don¡¯t look like someone who would enter the kitchen.¡±


    Indeed, for over twenty years, Dexter had hardly set foot in the kitchen. The few times he did was


    because of Josie.


    He rubbed his nose. ¡°Well, you see, my girlfriend loves this dish, and it¡¯s very important to her. I want to


    try and learn to make it for her.¡± Saying this was a bit difficult for him.


    If Josie heard him call her his girlfriend, she would surely get angry again.


    She loved-getting angry, but he simply couldn¡¯t bear to see her upset.


    Thedy boss suddenly realized and agreed. She said, ¡°Young man, you¡¯re really thoughtful.¡±


    Even though it was early autumn, the kitchen was still hot with various aromas mixed together. Ten


    minutester, Dexter could barely endure standing there anymore.


    Sweat started to bead on his forehead, but he gritted his teeth and endured it.


    Thedy boss taught him step by step, all while observing him. ¡°I saw the two of you sitting together


    earlier, not saying much. Did you have a fight?¡±


    Dexter recalled what happened that day and felt annoyed. He grunted in response.


    He had a good memory. He remembered how thedy boss did everything, how to add seasoning and


    how much to use, just by looking once.


    Thedy boss sighed. ¡°Couples always argue. You¡¯re so considerate and good to her, so she¡¯ll


    understand.¡±


    Understand? Dexter pursed his lips. She never understood me. Still, he asked, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Of course. But it also depends on why you¡¯re arguing. Did you do something wrong? Or did you say


    something wrong?¡±


    This question was tricky because it was neither. Dexter rarely spoke so quietly, and he had lost his air


    of authority. ¡°Does hitting someone count?¡±


    This statement startled thedy boss, and she looked him up and down, utterly bewildered.


    ¡°You young man, you look so well-behaved, how can you resort to violence? Girls are delicate, and


    their parents would be heartbroken if they knew.¡±


    Her words made Dexter¡¯s expression even darker. Josie didn¡¯t have a mother, and her father was


    missing.


    Thinking about it, he began to regret his actions that day, and the pain he felt for her gradually surfaced


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t intentional. I was too angry and couldn¡¯t control myself.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that in the future. If the girl is willing to be with you, she definitely loves you. You have to


    treat her well, understand? If you no longer like her, then tell her clearly and let her go. You can¡¯t hit


    people.¡±


    Dexter stared at the food absentmindedly. He had never thought that one day he would be here,


    listening to a stranger¡¯s lecture. He felt embarrassed to exin that it wasn¡¯t that Josie was willing to


    stay with him; it was that he had forcibly kept her here.


    Didn¡¯t he like her anymore? He had never felt this way before, and he had never thought about letting


    her


    When Dexter came out, Josie had finished eating. She was holding her phone to pay and couldn¡¯t help


    but taunt him, ¡°Dexter, has a woman ever treated you to a meal in your life?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He stood on the steps and followed her lead. ¡°Not really.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m the first one.¡±


    ¡°Yes, the first of many things.¡±


    Josie smiled, but her smile faded after a while. At this point, she no longer cared about these trivial


    details about Dexter.


    He could give her something but could also give the same thing to others.

 Chapter 891 Slap Me Again

    Chapter 891 p Me Again


    The rain seemed endless, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of aster. The couple walked down


    the alley while sharing an umbre, finding their way back home.


    Josie hugged her hands at her front, feeling slightly cold without a jacket. She also seemed to have


    grown even paler.


    She stole a nce at Dexter. Noticing that his expression wasn¡¯t overly cold, she asked somewhat


    hesitantly, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me when Grandpa fell ill, Dexter?¡±


    The man¡¯s knuckles turned white from the force of gripping the umbre. Without turning to her, he


    retorted, ¡°Tell you to make you worry?¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± She recalled having a row with him at that time. ¡°You could have just told me. Then, I wouldn¡¯t


    have scolded you so severely.¡±


    A cold snort escaped Dexter¡¯s lips. ¡°That isn¡¯t necessary.¡± He looked at her. ¡°Don¡¯t you scold me


    enough?¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, tacitly agreeing with him.


    After a brief silence where all she could hear was the sound of the rain hitting the stone bricks, she


    suddenly heard Dexter asking, ¡°Josie, do you love me or hate me more?¡±


    This question caught Josie off guard, but she blurted, ¡°Of course, it¡¯s hate.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brows instantly furrowed, and his voice involuntarily turned hard. ¡°To what extent? You hate


    me so much that you wish to kill me?¡±


    Josie went along with the flow. ¡°Yeah. In all my years, Paul had never hit me like that.¡±


    At her words, a sense of guilt began to germinate deep within Dexter. He knew her current restraint


    was solely because she was on his turf. Once she got out, she would return to her fierce and


    aggressive self, truly wishing she could kill him and wouldn¡¯t show him a shred of mercy.


    ¡°I acted impulsively that day,¡± he said with a frown, unsure of the appropriate tone to convey his


    sincerity,


    Josie nced at him, fighting back a smile. It was clear that Dexter was not one to back down. From


    the beginning, he had always been in control, and someone at the helm would never make a mistake.


    Therefore, he was particrly awkward at that moment.


    Josie shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s okay. A storm must be brewing out there now, with everyone. condemning her.


    Getting pped was well worth it.¡±


    As soon as those words rang out, Dexter looked away, his expression inscrutable.


    Josie knew that he was keeping his anger in check.


    She stood still and enunciated, ¡°This is precisely what I want-to see her fall from grace, losing all


    standing and reputation.


    He swung his gaze back at her, his gaze sharp as a drawn de. ¡°So, you refuse to listen to me, yes?¡±


    ¡°Do you still want to hit me?¡± Going on her tiptoes, Josie leaned forward. ¡°I likewise think a p was too


    lenient for me. I don¡¯t mind if you p me again.¡±


    He has already hit me, so there¡¯s no difference whether he does it once or twice.


    Unbeknownst to her, as she said that, her cheeks puffed slightly, and her eyes were brimmed with


    grievance.


    In truth, she still cared about that p, devastated about him raising his hand against her for Heather.


    Dexter held the umbre with one hand, the tips of his fingers as cold as ice. His expression remained


    unchanged, and he wasn¡¯t angered. ¡°Don¡¯t be capricious.¡±


    That was all he said.


    Josie frowned, often irritated by his nonchnt demeanor.


    ¡°Dexter, I¡¯ve been wondering about this. If it were Liana, would you have been that impulsive?¡± she


    pressed.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    The rain was pouring increasingly harder, making the ground slippery underfoot.


    Dexter¡¯s voice was somewhat hoarse. ¡°To keep the Olsen family in line, I did use her and treated her


    as a hostage. In this, I owe her.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze turned nk. She had known that all along, but hearing him say it out loud still made her


    feel difited.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°So, you wouldn¡¯t have if it were her.¡±


    But when it¡¯s me, it¡¯s a different story altogether.

 Chapter 892 Heather Attempted Suicide

    Chapter 892 Heather Attempted Suicide


    ¡°Truthfully, Dexter, I don¡¯t mind you protecting her because of her identity. I can understand that you¡¯re


    bound to Liana by life and death. But putting that aside, you haven¡¯t truly fallen in love with her, have


    you?¡±


    Josie had contemted multiple times whether to reveal her true identity to Dexter. She wanted to see


    his reaction at that moment, yet she also feared it because she didn¡¯t know who she could trust to that


    very day.


    There was still a red mark on her face. The stubborn look in her eyes as she stared at him. then had


    Dexter¡¯s brows crease even deeper.


    His silence almost plunged Josie¡¯s heart into a chaotic mess. No matter how much he had. tormented


    her during this time, she knew that hidden within was a sense of possessiveness, and the source of it


    was love. However, that was no longer certain then.


    ¡°Owing someone can generate sympathy and even love.¡± Josie enunciated, almost in despair.


    ¡°You¡¯re overthinking things.¡± Dexter¡¯s hand that held the umbre was getting sore, so he switched to


    his other hand.


    ¡°Then, do you say you¡¯ve got no pity for her and only used her?¡± she shrieked in the rain.


    ¡°Josie!¡± Dexter raised his voice with a frown, his tone icy. ¡°What about you? How do about Morgan, this


    so-called first love of yours? Has he made you relive your past memories?¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie immediately pushed him away. Like an angry little cub, she spun on her heel


    and stalked away.


    She walked into the rain, and Dexter quickly followed with the umbre, grabbing her wrist. ¡°Why, did I


    hit a nerve, and you¡¯re now toozy to argue?¡±


    On the day of Liana¡¯s birthday, he saw her nestled in Morgan¡¯s arms with a rxed expression in the


    hall. It was clear that she was dependent on him.


    A thorn lodged deep in his heart, and it was simply impossible to remove.


    Josie¡¯s entire face was lifted, and she wore an expression of utter exasperation. ¡°Dexter, we¡¯re already


    divorced. Don¡¯t be hypocritical.¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re the one being hypocritical,¡± Dexter increased the force of his grip. Suddenly, he waved


    his hand and tossed the bothersome umbre away. Bending down, he kissed her, their lips meeting


    amidst the icy rain.


    The heavy rain drenched the two of them in no time. Josie pushed against him with both hands in front


    of her, struggling fiercely. She sobbed, ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    In the secluded alley, they were both trapped in the rain, trying to salvage their fragile love with desire.


    It was too cold, and Dexter pulled Josie into his arms, kissing her fervently. His breathing grew


    increasingly heavier. ¡°Josie, I¡¯ve told you that you are mine,¡±


    She pounded the man¡¯s solid chest desperately, her palms bright red. But gradually, her body went limp


    from his kiss, and the relentless rain made her yearn to draw closer to his warmth.


    Dexter sensed her softening, but just then, his phone in his pocket suddenly rang.


    It was his personal phone, and no one would call him on it unless it was urgent.


    Josie pinned his hand down. ¡°Don¡¯t answer it.¡±


    The two of them moved slightly apart. Dexter¡¯s voice was hoarse as he leaned in for another kiss.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The phone rang for forty-five seconds before disconnecting, only to persistently ring again.


    After that happened three times, Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed. In the end, he reached in and took his


    phone out. It was a call from Larry.


    He pulled Josie into his arms and answered the call. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Larry was frantic. ¡°Ms. Olsen attempted suicide, Mr. Russell!¡±


    Strangely enough, the early autumn rain was also apanied by lightning. It illuminated. Josie¡¯s pale


    face.


    Dexter¡¯s expression stiffed slightly. ¡°When did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Just an hour ago. She¡¯s in the emergency room now, and udia has arrived.¡±


    Hisrge hand rested on Josie¡¯s waist.


    Larry asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t youing over, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Josie said loudly.


    After saying that, she hung up the phone for him.

 Chapter 893 Not Wanting Him To Leave

    Chapter 893 Not Wanting Him To Leave


    Josie took the initiative and hooked her arms around the man¡¯s neck, her eyes dark and sultry. ¡°Stay


    here today. You¡¯ve already been missing for several days, anyway. One more day of absence wouldn¡¯t


    make a difference.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Dexter replied as he lowered his head and leaned his forehead against hers.


    Just then, his phone rang again, except this time, the call was from udia. Upon seeing the caller


    disy, Josie fell silent.


    Dexter furrowed his brows, but eventually, he still answered the call.


    ¡°Dex, I beg of you¡­¡± udia pleaded.


    Meanwhile, Josie clutched the corner of her shirt as chills ran down her spine.


    As soon as the call ended, Dexter picked up the umbre, opened it over their heads, and handed it to


    her.


    ¡°You¡¯re drenched. Why don¡¯t you head home for a bath so you don¡¯t catch a cold?¡± Dexter suggested.


    s, Josie didn¡¯t answer.


    ¡°Her fate remains uncertain. I need to visit her out of consideration,¡± the man continued.


    Josie locked eyes with him. ¡°When I was in Rivodia, my life was also hanging by a thread. It¡¯s no big


    deal.¡±


    With that, Dexter ced the umbre handle into her palm. ¡°Be good. She¡¯s frail andcks the desire to


    live. I need to make this trip.¡±


    ¡°Are you a doctor?¡± Josie retorted before taking a deep breath. ¡°Do you really have to leave today?¡±


    When Dexter lowered his gaze, the woman quivered, her eyes cold and dark.


    Needless to say, Dexter couldn¡¯t bear to see her like that and hastily grabbed her hand. ¡°I¡¯ll only drop


    by for a look, and I promise to be back tonight.¡±


    ¡°Dexter Russell!¡± Josie choked out. ¡°If she wanted to die, she wouldn¡¯t have waited for you to be called.


    She¡¯s gone to this extent because she wants to force you back to her side! You held. me earlier, and I


    stayed. Now, I don¡¯t want you to leave. Will you stay?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brow knitted into a frown. ¡°Russell Group still has tie-ups with the Olsen family.


    Besides, we¡¯re the reason shemitted suicide. I can¡¯t just abandon her.¡±


    Josie, however, only became more frustrated. ¡°She has already be Liana Olsen, and the Olsen


    family doesn¡¯tck anything. You can eitherpensate her with money or restore her reputation. I¡¯ll


    even apologize to her myself if all else fails. In any case, you¡¯re not allowed. to leave!¡± she bellowed,


    the rage in her voice so intense that it was terrifying.


    I don¡¯t care what it takes¡­ I refuse to let Dexter get close to Heather any longer!


    By then, the car that Larry had arranged was already waiting at the alley entrance. Dexter nced at it,


    his expression turning grimmer by the second. ¡°Please try to put yourself in my shoes, Jo. This will be


    thest time.¡±


    A chill instantly ran through Josie¡¯s body, and her hand slipped from theck of strength. As much as


    she hated to admit it, she knew it was impossible to make Dexter stay.


    With that, thetter strode past her into the rain and climbed into the car¡¯s backseat.


    Josie was finally snapped back to reality when the engine roared to life, prompting her to drop her


    umbre and dash toward Dexter. Unfortunately, the car had already moved off, so she chased after it


    like an ouw on a mission.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    She wanted to tell him she was the real Liana, the girl he grew up with. She wanted him to know that


    Heather was lying and that he shouldn¡¯t visit her.


    As Josie ran, tears and rain rolled down her face. One thing was for sure-never before had she felt


    such a strong urge to tell him the truth.


    However, the car was driving too fast, so no matter how hard Josie ran, she couldn¡¯t keep up. When


    she eventually reached the corner, she tripped on a small stone and stumbled forward, crashing heavily


    onto the ground.


    ¡°Ah-¡±


    Blood seeped out when her forehead hit the ground, only to be quickly washed away by the heavy rain.


    Just then, the car screeched to a halt.


    In her daze, Josie saw a figure jump out of the car and rush to her side. ¡°Josie!¡±


    Even though she couldn¡¯t decipher what else was said, she remembered being lifted up and quickly put


    into a car. Afterward, she could hear someone constantly talking to her, but sadly, she couldn¡¯t


    comprehend anything.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Her mind was a mess, and all her thoughts were far too jumbled up to make any sense.


    Overwhelmed by immense sorrow, she eventually fainted.

 Chapter 894 Regaining Memories.

    Chapter 894 Regaining Memories.


    Josie had a very long dream.


    Even in her dreams, the torrential rain continued to fall as she sat in the back of a car, a teddy bear in


    her arms. ¡°Leanne, you can¡¯t cause trouble for your parents when we get to the new ce, okay? You


    have to behave yourself,¡± the servant beside her reminded.


    Lost in thought, she stared out the car window, not hearing a single word.


    It was foggy outside as they drove into a massive mansionplex. After taking a turn, the driver


    suddenly slowed the car down and honked the horn..


    ¡°Why is there a child?¡± he grumbled.


    Leanne quickly rolled down the car window, and to her surprise, she saw a boy kneeling in the middle


    of the road. Not only did he seem to be crying, but he also looked incredibly defiant and aggrieved.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    A servant beside him hurriedly stepped forward to apologize to the driver, muttering about an


    unexpected situation.


    Fully aware that the part of the neighborhood was inhabited by the rich and powerful, the driver knew


    he couldn¡¯t rush them and had no choice but to stop where he was. ¡°We¡¯re in a bit of a hurry, too. When


    can we get going?¡±


    Still clutching her doll, Leanne suddenly unlocked the car door and hopped out, her eyes filled with


    curiosity as she stared at the boy.


    She found him very handsome, especially with his soft and delicate features. In fact, he might even be


    mistaken for a girl if it weren¡¯t for his short hair!


    Upon sensing a figure approaching him, the boy looked up excitedly. ¡°Mother¡­¡±


    When he saw the little girl, however, his smile instantly vanished.


    Leanne tilted her head in surprise. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You¡¯ve hurt yourself. Let me help you up.¡±


    Even though the boy¡¯s palm was covered in blood, he red at her without uttering a word.


    Instead of losing her temper, Leanne stayed quietly by his side until he was forcibly dragged away.


    She was only four years old, yet she was already conscious of facial attractiveness and even knew she


    preferred handsome boys.


    Coincidentally, she often saw that little boy afterward. Their homes were only separated by two streets,


    and they even attended the same school.


    She heard some people calling him Dexter while others called him Dex.


    Leanne had always been overfamiliar with others, so since she only knew the handsome boy in the


    new neighborhood, she¡¯d cling to him every day and badger him non-stop.


    The boy might always seem annoyed, but deep down, she knew he wasn¡¯t a bad person.


    Just like that, she followed him around, calling him ¡°Dex¡± wherever they went. Time flew by, and soon,


    he had gone from elementary to middle school.


    As the boy grew taller, he gradually stopped minding Leanne following him everywhere. He even


    started to enjoy herpany and willingly yed with her.


    Over the years, one could say Leanne practically grew up in the Russell family. She¡¯d sleep at her own


    house but always spent the rest of her time by Dexter¡¯s side.


    Henry, too, treated her very well, as if she were his granddaughter.


    Fortunately, Leanne relied on Dexter as much as he relied on her.


    Although the two of them attended the same renowned school in Wavery, Leanne was still in the sixth


    grade of elementary school while Dexter had already skipped grades to high school.


    There was no doubt that Dexter was a particrly prominent student. He was intelligent and scored the


    highest among his cohort of more than a thousand students. As such, he was. picked to give the


    freshman speech on stage on behalf of his fellow schoolmates. With his rich, deep voice and good


    posture, many girls couldn¡¯t help but whisper about him amongst themselves.


    Leanne looked at the familiar figure on stage, unable to control the twitching at the corner of her mouth.


    As it turned out, she had beenining to him throughout their summer vacation. ¡°Why are you the


    top student in the whole school while I¡¯m thest?¡±


    Now a young man, Dexter beamed with joy and burst outughing. ¡°It¡¯s because you¡¯re dumb.¡±


    The two of them would go to and from school together every day, and no matter howte sses


    ended for Dexter, he¡¯d always wait for her.


    Needless to say, everyone knew Leanne clung to him like a leech.


    Quite a few of his suitors even sent gifts her way, and she epted them all, happily indulging in the


    candies till they almost gave her cavities.

 Chapter 895 Young Dexter

    Chapter 895 Young Dexter


    It wasn¡¯t until during the first semester when Dexter was in grade 11 that the school, in an effort to


    alleviate academic stress, specifically held a singingpetition. Watching his ssmates jumping


    around like monkeys let out of a zoo, Leanne remained indifferent,


    On the day of the finals, she sneaked off to sleep backstage, undisturbed by anymotion.


    What she hadn¡¯t expected was that she would sleep so soundly. By the time she fully woke up, both the


    front and back stages were already deserted. A vast darkness had descended. The window hadn¡¯t


    been shut tight, and the night wind was very cool. As it poured in through the window, it felt particrly


    chilling.


    She slowly rose to her feet, straining to make out her surroundings, but could only discern faint


    shadows. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she swallowed hard. Feeling her way along the wall,


    inch by inch, she tried to locate the door.


    She heard her own rapid breathing amplified manifold in the pitch-ck room, her legs feeling


    somewhat weak.


    When the door suddenly swung open with a click, she was so startled that she jumped, let out a


    scream, and then her legs gave way, causing her to fall clumsily to the ground. The person who


    opened the door seemed equally startled by her reaction and stood frozen in the doorway.


    It was at that moment that Dexter entered her line of sight. Once she saw him clearly, she was on the


    verge of tears. ¡°Dex!¡±


    Dexter stood upright at the door, appearing very stalwart, still maintaining the posture he had when he


    first opened the door.


    He was somewhat taken aback. ¡°Leanne, howe you¡¯re here? I¡¯ve been looking for you for ages!¡±


    She got up, her voice muffled from the shock. ¡°I fell asleep and no one woke me up.¡±


    Young Dexterughed and stepped forward. With a familiar case, he pped his hand against the wall


    and the room was suddenly bathed in light. The abrupt brightness stung her eyes, causing her to close


    them. It took her a moment before she could open them again,


    She dusted off her clothes, watching him in his school uniform, tall and thin, bending over steadily to


    open a drawer and pull out a pair of white headphones. He said, ¡°If I hadn¡¯t left my headphones here, I


    really wouldn¡¯t have found you.¡±


    With childlike innocence, she reached out her hand, asking him to hold her.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    With a sense of helplessness, Dexter extended his hand, hoisted her onto his back, and walked out.


    She was lying on him, feeling sleepy, when she suddenly remembered, ¡°Dex, did you participate in the


    singingpetition? What did you sing?¡±


    Dexter was surprised. ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know! Was it a nursery rhyme?¡± she asked, her voice still carrying a childlike innocence.


    ¡°I sang an Uprian song.¡± Dexter couldn¡¯t help but sigh. ¡°You¡¯re still a child, but I¡¯ve already grown up.¡±


    ¡°How old can you be? You¡¯re just three years my senior


    Despite the three-year-gap, the difference in their maturity was significant.


    That summer after she graduated from elementary school, she managed to get into the middle school


    of the same institution with her barely passing grades. Henry was so delighted that he took them both


    on a special trip abroad.


    It was quite strange. She had traveled to far-off ces and returned unscathed. Yet, on the eve of


    starting school, she simply vanished after returning home from the Fu family¡¯s house, disappearing


    from the lives. of the two people who loved her dearly.


    The dream was chaotic, with many things surfacing in the mind, rushing out one after another,


    exceptionally vivid and clear.


    The image of the young boy in her dreams gradually merged with the man standing before her. A


    strong sense of dependence surged within her, almost making her lose her voice.


    ¡°Ms. Warren! Ms. Warren is awake! Where¡¯s the doctor? A familiar voice echoed in her ears. She


    struggled to open her eyes, seeing the stark white ceiling above.


    Her forehead hurt, and so did her brain.


    Josie stared at the ceiling for a while before epting the reality of waking up from a dream.


    Why did she wake up? Perhaps it was because her memory stopped there.


    ¡°Ms. Warren?¡± the doctor asked as he took measurements of her vitals. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±

 Chapter 896 Unbreakable Bond

    Chapter 896 Unbreakable Bond


    She turned her gaze around the room, where only a few people were present, including Larry and a


    few. attendants.


    The familiar figure was nowhere to be found.


    Josie remained silent. Larry understood and stepped forward, whispering, ¡°The doctor said you¡¯re fine.


    The rain has also stopped. Mr. Russell has gone to handle some matters, and he¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    His voice was gentle, as if he was afraid that Josie might overthink.


    Her head was splitting with pain. She naturally knew what he meant by handling matters. ¡°Water¡­¡± she


    murmured.


    The attendant served her a ss of water.


    Josie took a sip, assured the doctor that she was fine, and then leaned against the head of the bed to


    rest for a moment.


    The rain outside had indeed stopped.


    She never expected that her lost memories would be returned to her on a simr rainy day.


    She could now be more certain that she was Liana, and also Leanne.


    The gentle Dex who used to treat her kindly had now grown into the cold and ruthless Dexter.


    And she never expected that the two most important chapters of her life, before the amnesia and after


    the. amnesia, would be given to Dexter.


    What a coincidence. Dex, our bond really is unbreakable. Josie thought to herself. But it¡¯s quite


    amusing that such a bond could still be exploited by others in times of vulnerability. Those people are


    far too bold. Do they really think I¡¯ll never return? Indeed. If I hadn¡¯t found the clues, I might never have


    known that I am Liana.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, the sky outside began to brighten. Josie finally put down the


    water. cup in her hand and asked Larry, ¡°When can I leave this ce?¡±


    Larry hesitated, ¡°Mr. Russell said you¡¯d have to wait until the injury heals.¡±


    Only then did Josie notice the gauze on her forehead. She lightly touched it. The pain sobered her up.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Is he referring to my wound or hers?¡±


    Larry was caught between a rock and a hard ce. ¡°Of course it¡¯s yours.¡±


    Josie chuckled.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen smashed a water ss and slit her wrist when no one was paying attention to her.


    Fortunately, she was discovered in time, so her life was not in danger. Under such circumstances, she


    specifically asked to see Mr. Russell. The Olsen family has been waiting, and Mr. Russell has been


    absent for several days, which has already causedints. Now, he simply cannot be absent.


    Please understand him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile broadened, appearing somewhat mboyant under the bright white light. ¡°The way the


    two sisters garner sympathy is exactly the same. What¡¯s a inere scarpared to the reluctance to let


    her child take some risks to get what she wants.¡±


    Larry didn¡¯t know what opinion to express, so he simply remained silent.


    The phone on the bedside table suddenly rang. It was Dexter. He had probably managed to soothe


    Heather.


    Josie didn¡¯t pick up and instead hung up the call.


    He kept calling.


    So, Josie removed her SIM card. She finally found peace and tossed her phone aside.


    Watching her series of actions, Larry could even imagine the look of Dexter¡¯s furrowed brows.


    In fact, he was already quitete.


    When Larry arrived, he saw Dexter holding the unconscious Josie, shouting, ¡°Get a doctor! Hurry!¡±


    Hisrge hand trembled as it covered her bleeding forehead, his lips quivering as he spoke. ¡°Fool, why


    did you chase after the car¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. I¡¯ve been too harsh on you.¡± He pressed his face against her forehead, murmuring,


    ¡°Please, wake up. You can hit me when you do, however you want. I¡¯ll let you hit me back.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Jo¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­


    He panicked as if the apocalypse had arrived.


    All thoughts of Heather, the Olsen family, and any coborations werepletely forgotten. The only


    thing in his eyes was Josie.


    Just like that, he held her until the doctor arrived.


    Larry was almost trembling, wanting to say that Josie seemed to have only scraped his forehead, but in


    the end, he said nothing.

 Chapter 897 Did Not Show Up

    Chapter 897 Did Not Show Up


    Dexter couldn¡¯t get through to Josie on the phone, so he directly called Larry instead. Thetter


    carefully nced at Josie before stepping outside to answer the call.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Warren has woken up¡­ Yes, she¡¯s in a bad mood¡­ The doctor is here¡­ She¡­¡±


    Larry stood at the door, answering every question on the phone. Suddenly, the door behind him opened


    from the inside. Josie, dressed in a white nightgown, stood there quietly.


    Larry was taken aback for a moment, ¡°Ms. Warren¡­¡±


    Josie gripped the icy doorknob. ¡°Ask him when he will return.¡±


    Larry was taken aback but quickly regained his senses and asked Dexter verbatim.


    On the phone, it was unclear what was said, but Larry ryed the message. ¡°Mr. Russell will be back


    by dawn.¡±


    Josie gave a slight nod, her expression indifferent. ¡°Tell him I¡¯ll be waiting for him.¡±¡±


    After speaking, she didn¡¯t wait for Dexter¡¯s response. She re-entered the room and closed the door


    behind. her. She sprawled out on the soft bed. The rain outside had stopped. Under the illumination of


    the streetmps, the scenery was tranquil and elegant.


    Josie took a deep breath. No matter how long she had stayed in Dexter¡¯s territory in the past, she


    never felt a sense of belonging because she hadn¡¯t grown up in such an environment. But now, she


    had regained her memories. All these belong to me.


    She had been unconscious for a long time, so she wasn¡¯t tired now. While waiting for Dexter to return,


    she reinserted the card into her phone and saw many unread messages.


    That included Laura¡¯s messages: I¡¯m really speechless. Heather actually used the same trick as


    Summer. Nevertheless, the difference in treatment is clear. This time, Mark almost ended up in the


    hospital too. Heather really has guts. The doctor said her bone was visible. After three hours of


    emergency treatment, Dexter arrived. Everything is finally fine.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    After reading through all the messages, Josie then read Morgan¡¯s. He was anxious. He texted: Josie,


    don¡¯t get confused.


    The subsequent voice messages he sent were filled with urgency. Josie found it amusing and listened


    to it several times in a row.


    He was worried that she had once again fallen into Dexter¡¯s trap, but in reality, she had never left.


    After a long and difficult night, dawn finally broke. Theke outside merged with the horizon, and the


    scene was a nket of white. The street lights went out, and Josie got up to wash her face, feeling


    much more awake.


    She looked at herself in the mirror, deep in thought. When Dexter returns, I¡¯lle clean to him. After


    all, he was once my dear Dex. He has the right to know.


    Yet, she kept waiting, waiting until the sky gradually brightened, until the morning glow spread out, and


    the view before her eyes brightened. She waited until the sun slowly rose to its zenith, but Dexter never


    returned.


    Outside, there wasn¡¯t a single sound to be heard. Dexter hadn¡¯t returned, so Larry didn¡¯t dare toe


    in. and report.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, Josie picked up her phone. It was already eleven in the


    morning.


    She told herself to forget it.


    ¡°F*ck! You¡¯re going to be the death of me, Josie! What the hell were you doing?¡± Morgan started


    cursing as soon as the call connected.


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°Come pick me up at the art gallery. I¡¯ll be waiting for you at the entrance.¡±


    It took him just over ten minutes to drive over from his ce, and along the way, Morgan had already


    figured out the ins and outs of the matter.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your head? Did he hit you?¡± Seeing her bend over to get in the car, Morgan


    narrowed his eyes and immediately wanted to check her condition.


    Josie brushed his hand away. ¡°I bumped into something¡±


    Morgan was somewhat skeptical. He drove at a high speed. ¡°Heather attempted to end her life again


    this morning. Dexter was there. He couldn¡¯t leave.¡±

 Chapter 898

    Chapter 898


    Josie had guessed it. Otherwise, her departure from the art gallery that day wouldn¡¯t have been so


    smooth. Dexter¡¯s people didn¡¯t dare to stop her.


    ¡°Is she dead?¡± She was concerned about this.


    For a moment, Morgan was taken aback. He asked, ¡°What?¡± Then he responded, ¡°Pfft. No. If she really


    wanted to die, she would have done it long ago.¡±


    The car was heading toward her ce. Sensing Josie¡¯s silence, Morgan, who rarely spoke for Dexter,


    said, ¡°If I were him, I probably wouldn¡¯t have a better solution either. The Olsen family is powerful. It¡¯s


    impossible not to consider the pros and cons.¡±


    That¡¯s right. I¡¯m basically nothingpared to the pros and cons. Josie did not express an opinion.


    Upon returning home, Morgan walked in with a look of disdain. ¡°This ce is too small. I¡¯ll have


    someone get you a new one.¡±


    Josie stepped over the couch and poured him a ss of water. ¡°How much longer can you stay in


    Wavery? Where will I live when you go back?¡±


    Morgan stared at her. ¡°Come back to Rivodia with me.¡±


    Josie showed no interest and propped up her head. ¡°I¡¯m quitefortable living here. Though it¡¯s


    small, it has everything I need, and it gives me a sense of security.¡±


    That was a demeanor only a girl who had tasted hardship could possess. Morgan, having seen many


    daughters of elite families, found her exceptionally unique.


    But he looked left and right, still unsatisfied. He sat down reluctantly, his gaze filled with affection as he


    looked at her.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Fatigue and weariness filled Josie¡¯s eyes. She looked at him and suddenly said, ¡°Morgan, if the person


    you met were the old me, perhaps we wouldn¡¯t have ended up parting ways.¡±


    Morgan slightly furrowed his brows, asking, ¡°Why?¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a smile.


    Because at that time, she wouldn¡¯t have felt inferior, as they were considered a good match in terms of


    social status. Naturally, he wouldn¡¯t have looked down on her family background.


    She recalled something. ¡°But it¡¯s not necessarily so either. It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    If that were the case, she wouldn¡¯t have met Morgan. The one who would captivate her would


    undoubtedly be Dexter.


    Two days passed, and the usations of giarism against Heather vanished without a trace. It


    seemed as if everyone had an unspoken agreement not to mention it anymore. It was clear that a


    powerful force had suppressed public opinion for the sake of Heather¡¯s mental health.


    She had injured her bone, soyers of gauze were wrapped around her wrist. She couldn¡¯t sleep


    peacefully. only findingfort when she saw Dexter staying by her side.


    ¡°Dex, do you also despise me?¡± Heather asked, tears streaming down her face. ¡°Do you think I¡¯ve


    disgraced you all by resorting to any means necessary?¡±


    Dexter sat in his chair, legs crossed, his tone indifferent. ¡°Leanne, the worst thing a girl can do is to be


    self- depreciating.¡±


    As those words were spoken, Heather¡¯s tears flowed even more, her voice choked with emotion. ¡°I


    know, but I¡¯m at a loss. I want to make my parents happy, and I want to be worthy of being your


    fianc¨¦e. I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    After a restless night, Dexter¡¯s voice sounded somewhat weary. ¡°I¡¯ve taken care of the issue with the


    painting for you. From now on, no one will dare to speak out of turn in your presence.¡±


    Heather was taken aback for a moment, then quickly asked, ¡°What about Josie?¡±


    He lifted his sharp gaze.


    ¡°Can you handle her?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes remained calm and undisturbed. ¡°Leanne, this is not something you need to worry


    about.¡±


    Heather covered her face, continuing to cry. ¡°I know it¡¯s her, and I know you¡¯re willing to indulge her, but


    what about me, Dex?¡±


    The two were close, yet Dexter sat in ce, notforting her. ¡°You are different, so you shouldn¡¯t


    compare.¡±


    After a long while, Heather took a deep breath and withdrew her hand, her face streaked with tears.


    ¡°Dex, don¡¯t worry, I know my ce. But I am your fianc¨¦e. She should have some boundaries, right?¡±

 Chapter 899 Henry Is Near Death

    Chapter 899 Henry Is Near Death


    By saying such words, Heather was essentially giving Dexter permission to be with two women at the


    same time.


    Dexter frowned, for he had never imagined that her obsession with him was so great.


    ¡°Leanne-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired and would like to rest, Dex. You should go out first.¡± Heather managed to force a smile even


    uglier than if she had cried.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Outside the ward, udia waited anxiously. When she saw the maning out, she hurriedly asked,


    ¡°How is Leanne?¡±


    Dexter massaged his temples. ¡°She¡¯s asleep. I should get going now, Ms. Hadey.¡±


    udia seemed to have aged overnight. She nodded and said, ¡°Please don¡¯t take it to heart, Dexter.


    We¡¯ll make things up to Leanne and give her the love that had been missing these years together,


    okay?¡±


    Since Heather attempted suicide, she was truly scared.


    In the face of her plea, Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed deeper. He wanted to say something, but in the end,


    he -chose to remain silent.


    By the time he left the hospital, Larry had been waiting for a long time. ¡°Morgan picked Ms. Warren up.¡±


    he said.


    Dexter closed his eyes in rest, having expected as much.


    She must have been disappointed that I didn¡¯te home, so it¡¯s probably for the best that she left. In


    the time toe, there will inevitably be many more things that will disappoint her.


    At theck of a response, Larry couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Perhaps she¡¯ll understand if you exin things


    now.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t reply to that. After he had closed his eyes for a moment, his personal phone rang. The


    caller ID indicated that it was Marilyn. He exhaled and cleared his throat before answering it. ¡°Ms.


    Marilyn.¡±


    The person on the other end rapidly said something, upon which Dexter¡¯s expression changed. A storm


    was brewing.


    ¡°These are allpanies Xanthe is coborating with Justin rushed over. Thirsty, he downed an entire


    bottle of water.


    Josie took the list from him and quickly scanned through it. It was detailed, clearly stating which


    corporation eachpany belonged to.


    The list didn¡¯t include Russell Group, so it seemed that Dexter has truly cut all ties with his mother.


    She also couldn¡¯t find anything wrong with the rest of thepanies. Her brows furrowed. Could it be


    that I had been investigating in the wrong direction?


    Justin noticed the bandage on her head, ¡°What happened to your head? Did Dexter hit you after the art


    exhibition?¡±


    The art exhibition, it was his credit in finding out the painting Heather giarized. Hence, he naturally


    knew as well.


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Which corporation owns this Stardust eCommerce?¡±


    Justin nced at it and said, ¡°I¡¯m not sure. It¡¯s an independent enterprise.¡±


    ¡°Help me look into the owner behind the scenes.¡± Xanthe¡¯s most frequent coborator was that


    company.


    Justin agreed, then remarked in concern, ¡°Sis, Dexter has been at the hospital these past two days¡­.


    Heather is using a ruse of self-injury.¡±


    Josie shot him a sidelong nce. ¡°It¡¯ll only work if someone is willing to take the bait. He willingly


    panders. to her, so there¡¯s nothing I can say.¡±


    Justin was just about to say something further when his phone rang. He picked up the call, only to be


    somewhat surprised after hearing from the person on the other end.


    After hanging up, he muttered, ¡°It seems this ruse of self-injury won¡¯tst much longer.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t hear him clearly. She lowered her head and continued typing on the keyboard.


    ¡°Sis, I just got news from our informant at the hospital who said that the patriarch of the Russell family


    is er death. Dexter is by his side. It seems he won¡¯t have time to bother about Heather.¡±


    Justin spoke in a light and breezy manner, his tone suggesting that he was enjoying the show. He didn¡¯t


    notice that Josie had already stopped typing on the keyboard.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened slightly. Looking at him in disbelief, she asked, ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    Justin was surprised by the look on her face. ¡°I¡­ I said that the patriarch of the Russell family is near


    death.


    Dexter¡­¡±


    Before he could finish speaking, Josie had already stood up and started to head out. But no sooner had


    she taken a couple of steps than her legs gave way, and she had to lean against the wall to keep from


    falling.

 Chapter 900 The Death Of Henry

    Chapter 900 The Death Of Henry


    ¡°Sis!¡± Justin cried out lowly, rushing forward to support Josie.


    Josie gripped his hand as though clutching at a lifeline. She murmured, ¡°Take me to the hospital.¡±


    If one listened closely, her voice was audibly choked.


    The floor where Henry was hospitalized was sealed off. Besides the medical staffing and going,


    everyone else was stopped outside.


    When Josie arrived, the ce was filled with members of the Russell family¡¯s branch family. udia


    and Heather were also among them, thetter pacing anxiously. When she looked up and saw Josie,


    she was briefly stunned.


    ¡°You¡¯re here?¡±


    Josie likewise looked at her. Since she is here despite having nearly died, the news from Justin must


    be true.


    Upon seeing her, udia instinctively stepped in front of Heather. That action had some emotion start


    brewing in her eyes, but they quickly subsided.


    She walked straight up, her voice trembling. ¡°Let me in


    The bodyguards in charge of keeping everyone out were of the Russell family. At that, they were


    caught in a dilemma. ¡°We¡¯re sorry, but Mr. Russell has ordered that no one is to be allowed in.¡±


    From that angle, one could see a solitary figure standing at the end of the corridor. He stared at the red


    light above the operation room, his back radiating a sense of intense loneliness.


    Larry was by his side.


    Sometimeter, the doctor stepped out of the operating room and approached the figure standing


    there. He said something or other before bowing deeply.


    Josie watched from afar. Her legs gave way once again, and tears streamed down his face.


    Subsequently, Larry sprinted over. At the sight of him, the eyes of the people at the back lit eximed,


    ¡°Mr. Peeple!¡±


    Heather


    Pushing past the bodyguards, Larry focused solely on Josie, panting heavily. ¡°Quick, Mrs. Russell!


    Hurry!¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind went nk. She followed him straight into the corridor. After a few steps, she broke into a


    run and sprinted toward the operating room.


    It was just like when she was a child and joyfully ran to Henry¡¯s arms. Back then, he would scoop her


    up and spin her around a few times before saying with a grin, ¡°Good girl, Leanne. Have some candy.¡±


    However, the person awaiting her then was an elderly man with gray hair lying amidst a pile of medical


    equipment, no longer capable of carrying her.


    ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s me, Dex.¡± Beside the operating table, Dexter knelt down and held his grandfather¡¯s cold


    hand, his eyes red-rimmed.


    ¡°Please look at me¡­¡±


    confirmed that he was still alive.


    Is eyes. The faint sound of the medical equipment


    He strugglingly repeated, ¡°J-Jo¡­ I-I want to see Jo¡­¡±


    Josie had already entered the operating room. She cried out to Henry and fell to her knees on the other


    side of the operating table, clutching his hand tightly. ¡°I¡¯m here, Grandpa. I¡¯vee. Please don¡¯t leave


    me.¡±


    Henry turned his head with much difficulty and looked at her. ¡°You¡¯re here, Jo.¡±


    Josie nodded fervently, too choked up to speak.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Why are you crying? I get to see you in my final moments, so I have no regrets.¡± With an oxygen mask


    on his face, Henry slowly said, ¡°You¡¯re the one I¡¯m most worried about.¡±


    Sobbing. Josie held his gaze and assured, ¡°I¡¯m doing well, Grandpa.¡±


    Henry looked at her. He wanted to touch her face but had no strength left after his hand lifted halfway.


    Josie leaned her face into his hand, her tears scorching


    ¡°Dex is lucky to have married you. You two must¡­ must¡­ get along well and not fight¡­ I¡¯m entrusting


    him to you. Please take good care of him for me.¡±


    As Henry spoke, he pulled Dexter¡¯s hand over and ced it atop Josie¡¯s hand.


    A gentle warmth enveloped the couple, and their gazes meet in the air.


    To keep Henry from worrying, no one told him that they were already divorced.


    Dexter immediately grasped Josie¡¯s hand and promised. ¡°Okay, Grandpa. We will definitely do that.¡±


    Josie also reacted quickly. ¡°We give you our promise, Grandpa.¡±


    Henry¡¯s breathing gradually weakened. ¡°You two were together previously¡­ and will still be together in


    the future¡­¡±


    After he had said that, his strength faded, and his withered hand slipped down.


    ¡°Grandpa!¡±

 Chapter 901 The Funeral

    Chapter 901 The Funeral


    Josie let out a heart-wrenching scream.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were red and swollen as he trembled uncontrobly. He refused to believe that his


    grandfather had shut his eyes forever.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Henry, who had watched him grow up, once turned down millions worth of orders just to attend his


    graduation ceremony overseas. He did it just to tell Dexter that even though he had lost his father, he


    still had his grandfather.


    Later on, when Dexter took over Russell Group and encountered difficulties, Heny would always be by


    his side, analyzing and exining the all considerations he had to take into ount.


    He loved this grandson more than anyone else. Even before Josie entered Dexter¡¯s life, he was still


    advising. Dexter on business matters, fearing that thetter might offend someone and have no one to


    back him up after he was gone.


    Dexter trembled as he reached out to remove his grandfather¡¯s respirator. Yet he could clearly see a


    smile at the corner of the mouth.


    Henry had departed with a sense of pride, a fact Josie understood as well.


    Two dayster, the Russell family held the funeral at Russell Mansion, the ce where Henry had lived


    for most of his life.


    The Russell family was in mourning, and many important figures hade to pay their respects.


    Vehicles were parked along the road halfway up the hill, leaving only a narrow path to walk through.


    At the funeral, Dexter, dressed in ck, stood at the main position. He bowing to those who came to


    pay their respects. His expression was one of exhaustion and sorrow.


    Quite a few of the Olsen family members had arrived. Heather was bustling about, busy with this and


    that. To those who didn¡¯t know, they might have thought she had already be Dexter¡¯s wife.


    Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t approach the altar.


    Josie was also dressed in ck. Since she had divorced Dexter, she no longer had the right to stand


    with him and preside over the funeral. Holding three stalks of flowers, she repeatedly bowed toward


    Henry¡¯s photo.


    After paying her respects, she walked up to each member of the Russell family, expressing her


    condolences one by one. Finally, she stood in front of Dexter. As she looked into his eyes, they both fell


    into silence.


    Josie held his icy hand, whispering softly, ¡°My condolences.¡±


    Almost instantly, Dexter tightly gripped her hand.


    Josie could tell that he was on the verge of copsing.


    Marilyn, deeply grieving, asked Josie to stay back. Even though it was against protocol, it was the right


    thing to do.


    ¡°Jo, Old Mr. Russell¡¯s departure was sudden, but his will was prepared long ago,¡± Marilyn said, holding


    her hand.


    Josie immediately shook her head. ¡°This is inappropriate.¡±


    ¡°I know. Awyer has to be present for the will.¡± Marilyn walked into the room, took out some


    documents, and handed them to her. ¡°These were left for you by Old Mr. Russell. He specifically


    instructed me to deliver them to you.¡±


    Josie flipped through the documents. They were rted to real estate and investments that were worth


    even more than what Dexter had given her at the time of their divorce.


    ¡°This¡­¡±


    ¡°Old Mr. Russell cares deeply about you. He¡¯s always worrying about you. That¡¯s why he wants to


    ensure you have a safety.¡±


    The kind Henry had even thought of something like that.


    Josie closed her eyes. ¡°What good have I done to deserve such good treatment?¡±


    The image of Henry¡¯s gaze before he passed away surfaced in her mind. It was one that was lucid and


    content. She was certain that at that moment, Henry was clear-headed. He knew she was Josie, and


    he also knew she was Leanne.


    She wanted to cry, but in the end, sheughed, tears sliding down her cheeks.


    Many attended the funeral, including Xanthe. The attendant, unsure of what to do, asked for Dexter¡¯s


    opinion.


    Xanthe stood before him, her grief unbearable. ¡°No matter what, I used to be a part of the Russell


    family. We¡¯ve spent days and nights together. Dex, let me pay my respects.¡±


    However, Dexter maintained an indifferent look. ¡°You should have shown such concern when he was


    still living.¡±


    With an awkward look on her face, Xanthe asked, ¡°Even now, are you still unwilling to forgive me?¡±


    ¡°Grandpa wouldn¡¯t want to see you.¡± Dexter turned around. ¡°Leave before I call the bodyguards.¡±

 Chapter 907 She Chose Morgan

    Chapter 907 She Chose Morgan


    ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°Russell Mansion.¡±


    Laura mmed her cutlery on the table as her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°She looked really angry.¡±


    Laura wasughing so hard that she was gasping for air, as if she could already imagine Heather¡¯s


    expression. ¡°That was mean,¡± she said, giving Josie a thumbs up.


    Josieughed along. Just when she was about to say something, someone ran into the room and


    greeted, ¡°Ms. Brandel.¡±


    Laura¡¯s smile faded. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    The person handed over a contract and said, ¡°This requires your signature urgently.¡±


    Laura browsed through the document and signed her name on it after making sure that there were no


    issues.


    Meanwhile, Josie was quietly observing her, thinking that the once arrogant and domineering daughter


    of an elite family had truly transformed into a capable woman who could stand on her own.


    After Laura finished signing, the person said, ¡°Mr. Olsen requests that you be back home for dinner


    tonight.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Laura nced at Josie before nodding with hesitation, ¡°All right. I understand.¡±


    After the person left, Josie kept quiet while Laura was the first to speak. ¡°Ever since we learned of


    Henry¡¯s death, Mark¡¯s health has been deteriorating. It might be due to seasonal changes.¡±


    Josie nodded while idly ying with the tassel on the corner of her blouse. ¡°One tends to ce more


    importance on family gatherings as they get older,¡± she said.


    Laura forced a smile and nodded.


    ¡°I will update you as soon as I hear any news regarding Heather and Dexter,¡± Laura said.


    Noticing her anxious expression, Josie replied in amusement, ¡°I know you¡¯re on my side, but you don¡¯t


    need to tell me anything. I¡¯m not going to choose Dexter.¡±


    Laura frowned. She had always believed that the ties between Josie and Dexter would never be


    broken.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Are you going to choose Arnold?¡± she asked.


    ¡°No¡± Josie looked out the window where a car was parked. The attention-seeking license te


    reminded her of someone. After a while, she withdrew her gaze and said to Laura, ¡°I choose Morgan¡±


    The expression on Laura¡¯s face remained unchanged as she asked Josie for the reason. At the same


    time. the light in her eyes gradually dimmed.


    Josie did not answer.


    She was not able to contact Morgan for a few days. He told her that something unexpected had


    happened. to Bastille Group, and he had to go back to deal with it


    Meanwhile, Justin had also found out whichpany Stardust eCommerce belonged to.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a shellpany. They have created multiple shellpanies, but the Carter Group is the


    corporation behind it.¡±


    Josie only believed it when she checked the documents and saw that the legal representative was


    Arnold.


    She clicked her tongue and replied, ¡°That was unexpected.¡±


    She was shocked that Arnold was the one who provided the information to Xanthe.


    Indeed, Arnold would take in anyone who was against Dexter. Besides, Josie had personally witnessed


    the close interactions between the two of them.


    After all the twists and turns, it all came back to Arnold.


    ¡°Can you check Arnold¡¯s recent schedule for me?¡±


    A momentter, Justin replied, ¡°Recently, he has been visiting Edward in the hospital every day. But


    Josie, why are you asking about him? Are we supposed to investigate Heather?¡±


    Josie snapped out of her daze. Looking at Justin who had a confused expression on his face, she did


    not know how to tell him that she was actually trying to find out about Paul¡¯s whereabouts.


    Oh. I¡¯m just checking because they belong to the same social circle.¡±


    Justin felt slightly relieved after hearing that and replied. ¡°You must tell me if there¡¯s anything going on.


    It¡¯s a messy situation. I¡¯m worried that you might get into trouble.¡±


    Josie felt a warm sensation in her heart. She patted her brother¡¯s head and said, ¡°I know. Besides, I


    have you, don¡¯t I? You¡¯re so quick-witted and dependable. Don¡¯t worry, I know what to do.¡±


    Only then did Justin feelpletely reassured.

 Chapter 908 We Cannot Be Too Ruthless

    Chapter 908 We Cannot Be Too Ruthless


    The media managed to snap a photo of Dexter when he left Russell Mansion that day.


    In the photo, he was not apanied by a bodyguard. He was the one driving the car with Heather by


    his side. Although there was no physical contact between the two, from the way they looked at each


    other, it was evident that their rtionship was not simple.


    The journalist wrote with a hint of ambiguity, stating that Heather wasforting Dexter over the loss of


    his grandfather and was apanying him outdoors to clear his mind. It was suggested that the two


    might even bring their wedding forward.


    After reading the article, Josie had only one thought in her mind: Is it really necessary for one to get


    married?


    ¡°Ms. Warren, so sorry I¡¯mte.¡± A warm voice sounded from behind. A middle-aged man dressed in a


    suit. extended his hand as he strode toward her.


    Josie stood up immediately and shook his hand, saying ¡°Mr. Zimmerman, I¡¯m sorry to bother you.¡±


    The person who had just arrived possessed a gentle demeanor. He was easy to converse with yet also


    exuded an aura of authority.


    He was Charles Zimmerman, who had recently been appointed mayor of Wavery.


    ¡°Not at all. I had some business here to attend to anyway.¡± Charles sat down and continued, ¡°Old Mr.


    Russell spoke very highly of you. He mentioned you more than once when I visited him previously.¡±


    Josie lowered her head humbly and replied, ¡°Grandpa had also mentioned you to me, describing you


    as an upright and incorruptible official.¡±


    While she was sorting through the items Henry left her, she discovered a letter. The letter had several


    names listed one it, one of which was Charles.


    Henry had instructed her to look for the man whenever she faced difficulties.


    Charles smiled and got straight to the point. ¡°I¡¯ve looked into the matter you asked me about. It seems


    like of my subordinates didn¡¯t follow the proper procedures, but they did give our big taxpayer some


    leeway, allowing him to be released for five days to receive medical treatment.¡±


    He was talking about Edward.


    Josie was carefully observing Charles¡¯ expression and could tell that he was one of Arnold¡¯s


    supporters.


    ¡°Just five days?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Charles replied in a straightforward manner.


    Josie narrowed her eyes and said, ¡°I asked because I¡¯m curious. Sorry to have disturbed you¡±


    ¡°No worries, I¡¯m aware of the power struggles in Wavery over the years. I¡¯ve also heard about what¡¯s


    going on with your¡­ your ex-husband. But there¡¯s still some room for mercy within justice. We can¡¯t be


    too ruthless.¡±


    Josie understood what he meant.


    It seems like Arnold¡¯s n had gained the upper hand within the system.


    A trace of weariness could be seen on Charles¡¯ face after Henry passed away.


    After exchanging some pleasantries, the man left. Meanwhile, Josie remained seated in the same spot,


    only leaving half an hourter.


    She leaned against the wall in the parking lot and scrolled through her phone aimlessly.


    After a while, the sound of a man¡¯s footsteps grew closer, heading toward her.


    Josie looked up when she heard the sound of the car door unlocking.


    Arnold only noticed the petite woman when he was in front of the car. He instinctively furrowed his


    brows but rxed once he saw who it was.


    ¡°When did you arrive?¡±


    Josie smiled and replied, ¡°Are you upset to see me?¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold leaned against his car and was not in a hurry to get in. ¡°There must be something wrong when


    people act out of character.¡±


    Finally, his gaze fell on her phone screen, where it showed the news about Dexter and Heather.


    Josie casually lifted her phone and replied with a hint of destion, ¡°I happened to be meeting


    someone here today and saw you by chance. I wasn¡¯t following you.¡±


    Arnold might or might not have been convinced as all he did was frown before making some room for


    her and saying, ¡°Get in the car.¡±


    Josie drove as Arnold had been drinking. She nced at the man beside her, who was resting with his


    eyes closed, and said, ¡°You¡¯re able to get the mayor¡¯spany for just for a single project. Impressive


    indeed. No wonder you¡¯re able to get your father out.¡±


    As Arnold had expected that, he replied without opening his eyes, ¡°Isn¡¯t it only right? He has already


    been locked up for so many years after all.¡±


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re like a fish back in its element now that Grandpa is no longer around.¡±


    As his cor was too tight, the man tugged at his tie and replied with a smirk, ¡°It wouldn¡¯t have made


    any difference even if he was still here.¡±

 Chapter 909 Meeting His Father

    Chapter 909 Meeting His Father


    Josie didn¡¯t reply and only nced at this man whom even drunkenness couldn¡¯t hide his charm, and


    asked indifferently, ¡°Where to?¡±


    Arnold squinted his eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t you already know the few ces I frequent in Wavery?¡±


    These words were too intimate, stirring up Josie¡¯s memories of hardship with him. She asked, ¡°Sky


    Pce?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the hospital.¡± He leaned over, setting up the navigation.


    Emotions surged within Josie, yet she feigned calmness. ¡°Is it appropriate at thiste hour?¡±


    Arnold said with a hint of teasing, ¡°What are you referring to?¡±


    ¡°The procedure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve arranged for the staff to take care of everything.¡±


    So, Josie stopped talking and stepped on the gas.


    The hospital was brightly lit. Arnold walked ahead, his back appearing somewhat nonchnt. Josie


    stared at him, reminiscing about the past. Perhaps they could have be close friends if he hadn¡¯t


    chosen this path.


    There were police officers stationed outside Edward¡¯s hospital room. Technically, visiting hours were


    over, but Arnold had no trouble getting in.


    ¡°Just wait a moment,¡± he said, continuing on his way.


    The door to the ward was slightly ajar, and Josie stood at the entrance. He could see Edward lying in


    the hospital bed, one hand handcuffed, the other hooked up to an IV drip. He looked to be in his fifties


    or sixties, his appearance not particrly aged, but his hair had already turned white.


    It was evident that he was a serious and ambitious man in his early years.


    Arnold sat next to him, exchanging a few words. During their conversation, Edward nced toward the


    door. Josie instinctively dodged, avoiding his gaze.


    After a while, Arnold opened the door and said to her, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows and followed him inside. Edward was already sitting upright, scrutinizing her


    meticulously.


    Josie called out, ¡°Mr. Carter.¡±


    Edward remained silent. The sharp vignce in his eyes was unlike that of a convict who had spent


    several years in prison.


    ¡°Dad,¡± Arnold called softly. ¡°She was passing by and came to see you.¡±


    Edward took a deep breath, looking at Josie. ¡°I know you. Your name is Josie.¡±


    She was very calm. ¡°It seems Arnold has mentioned me


    ¡°More than once.¡± Edward¡¯s response was clearly dissatisfied.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been through thick and thin with Arnold. We can be considered close friends. It hasn¡¯t been easy


    for him to get you where you are today,¡± Josie stated calmly.


    ¡°Old Mr. Russell has passed away. The fact that Arnold didn¡¯t get the chance for me to pay my respects


    is a sign of his insolence.¡±


    He was essentially reminding her one thing-Dexter would kill him if he had indeed shown up.


    Josie¡¯s lips curled slightly. ¡°Your good intentions are what matter most. You have done what you can


    do.. I¡¯m sure Old Mr. Russell will rest in peace knowing that


    With an indifferent snort, Edward looked at her with a somewhat strange gaze.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Since the two of you have parted ways, devote yourself wholeheartedly to assisting Arnold. If you¡¯re


    trulymitted, your status doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Josie nced at Arnold, unsure of what he had said to Edward, shifting thetter¡¯s attitude to a


    somewhat ambiguous stance.


    Arnold remained silent, pouring a ss of water to sober up.


    ¡°Assist him on his smuggling journey?¡± Josie¡¯s voice was icy cold.


    Edward was not surprised at all. ¡°For those who want to achieve great things, courage is the most


    important. If you¡¯re afraid to do even this, you might as well not call yourself a man.¡±


    After hearing those words, Josie finally understood who Arnold had learned his inherent recklessness


    from.


    ¡°Mr. Carter, there should at least be some boundaries, right?¡± She chuckled lightly.


    After a few seconds of silence, Edward came to a conclusion. ¡°You¡¯re not on the same path as him.¡±


    He nced at Arnold, who was drinking water. Puzzled Edward asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Summer?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. ¡°You¡¯ve never seen her draw a gun. We¡¯re birds of a feather.¡±

 Chapter 910 Not Playing The Role Of Lovers

    Chapter 910 Not ying The Role Of Lovers


    Josie made noment. She was tired from standing, so she shifted her stance, lowered her head


    slightly. and said, ¡°Mr. Carter, I will assist him.¡±


    This statement clearly took both of them by surprise. Arnold looked up, the reflection of the light


    dancing in his eyes.


    ¡°He won¡¯t end up like you.¡± She nced at the handcuffs.


    Edward¡¯s face changed. This woman seems extremely defiant and hard to tame.


    ¡°After all, he doesn¡¯t have any children yet, and it seems that Summer is not willing to have children for


    him. If he falls on hard times in the future, he won¡¯t have the good fortune like you do, having a son to


    lend a helping hand.¡±


    Josie spoke, her smile broadening. She did not show the slightest hint of fear.


    ¡°That is disrespectful!¡± Edward mmed his fist on the bed frame, but due to the handcuffs, his


    movements were severely limited.


    ¡°Take her away! Take this woman away from me!¡± He roared at Arnold, his eyes filled with rage.


    ¡°Unfilial son!¡±


    Arnold squinted his eyes, tightly gripping Josie¡¯s wrist. He said in a low voice, ¡°You¡¯ve gone too far.¡±


    Josie gave him a deep look and shrugged him off. ¡°I¡¯m not here to y the role of your perfect lover.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she was the first to leave the ward. Arnold didn¡¯t follow her, but she could


    feel his gaze was not friendly.


    Edward¡¯s voice, filled with anger, was still echoing. The door closed, and Arnold seemed to be pacifying


    him..


    Josie was ready to leave, but just as she stepped out of the corridor, she saw a figure stumbling out of


    the elevator, running toward him.


    She saw it clearly. The man had a scar on his face. It was Scar.


    ¡°Hey.¡± She sidestepped, blocking his way. ¡°What¡¯s the rush?¡±


    Scar was taken aback. Upon recognizing her face, he stuttered, ¡°M-Mrs. Carter?¡±


    Ignoring the formalities, Josie noticed his evasive and panicked gaze, ¡°Looking for your boss?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s busy with something. You can tell me anything.¡± Josie casually sat on the chair in the hallway.


    gesturing for him to sit as well.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Scar was panting heavily, hesitating momentarily. ¡°This.. isn¡¯t a good idea, is it?¡±


    Josie shed a radiant smile. ¡°You called me Mrs. Mrs. Carter, so what is it that you can¡¯t tell me?¡±


    Scar swallowed, leaning against the wall as he sat down I¡¯ll wait for Mr. Carter.¡±


    Stretching out her long legs, Josie yed with her phone for a while, then casually asked, ¡°How old are


    you. this year?¡±


    ¡°Twenty-three.¡±


    ¡°How old were you when you became a thug?¡±


    ¡°Fifteen¡­¡±


    Scar had been hustling in society since his early teens, notorious for his ruthlessness in fights. This


    was what caught Arnold¡¯s attention. However, after all these years of tough living, he found himself.


    surprisingly intimidated by the seemingly gentle and obedient Josie.


    ¡°Do you have a girlfriend yet?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± But he quickly shook his head and changed his answer. ¡°No.¡±


    People like him never keep a woman by their side for long. ¡°Haven¡¯t you ever thought about getting


    married, like your boss? It would be so much better.¡±


    Scar¡¯s expression looked worse than if he had been crying. ¡°He doesn¡¯t seem to be very happy


    either¡­¡±


    Josie finally reacted andughed. He is right. Arnold probably isn¡¯t going to be very happy when I¡¯m


    Mrs. Carter.


    Scar was apprehensive. He stared at the hospital room door as if he could bore a hole through it with


    his gaze.


    ¡°What do you need him for, thiste at night?¡±


    A little matter at the country club. It¡¯s not a big deal.¡±


    ¡°Well, tell me about it. Perhaps I can help solve it.¡±


    Scar remained silent, appearing quite troubled.


    ¡°I get it. You don¡¯t trust me.¡± Josie averted her gaze from her phone and stared at him.


    Scar was on the verge of tears under her gaze. ¡°Boss has instructed for me to not tell you.¡±


    ¡°Why would I be involved? I have no vested interest in the affairs of the country club. Could it be that


    this matter is rted to me?¡± she asked without taking her eyes off Scar.

 Chapter 911

    Chapter 911


    Chapter 911 Drugging Him


    On the verge of tears, Scar was about to speak when the door to the ward swung open. Arnold walked


    out, his expression far from pleasant.


    Scar quickly stood up, as if he had seen his savior.


    ¡°Mr. Carter.¡±


    Josie sat in the chair as Arnold scrutinized her.


    Thetter, now sober, gave Scar the side-eye. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Scar tiptoed and whispered something into his ear. Arnold¡¯s expression remained unchanged. ¡°Got it.


    Take a team to handle it. Get it resolved by tomorrow morning.¡±


    Upon receiving his orders, Scarplied and quickly departed, his actions bearing an uncanny


    resemnce to a hasty escape.


    Josie could barely hold by herughter as she looked on.


    ¡°Why are you giving him a hard time?¡± Arnold pressed the elevator button.


    ¡°I enjoy it, you know,¡± Josie said, walking beside him. ¡°He keeps calling me instead. Does he think I


    have the aura of Mrs. Carter?¡±


    The mirror in the elevator reflected their two figures, one tall and one petite, making for a peculiar yet


    compatible pair.


    ¡°Stop messing around.¡±


    Josie kept quiet, only asking after they left the hospital. ¡°Your dad must really hate me, right?¡±


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Arnold pressed the car key.


    ¡°I did it on purpose.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t obvious?¡± He finally nced at her. ¡°Are you satisfied now? You¡¯ve avenged Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Why did you bring me here then?¡± Josie asked with a smile.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Upon hearing this, Arnold, who was just about to open the car door, paused momentarily.


    Even though he knew she had ulterior motives, he still brought her along. He himself couldn¡¯t make


    sense of the recent contradictions.


    Perhaps I want my father to see her.


    Seeing Arnold remaining silent, Josie continued, ¡°I¡¯m not doing this for him. I¡¯m doing it for Grandpa.¡±


    Arnold wasn¡¯t sure how much he had taken in. He walked to the other side and opened the passenger


    door. ¡°Drive me home.¡±


    Josie stood still. ¡°Scar was just here. Why didn¡¯t you ask him to do it?¡±


    ¡°I forgot.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    Although Arnold owned a house in Wavery, he seldom went back there. He always felt it too empty and


    deste.


    Instead, he returned to the country club where he had an exclusive room on the highest floor. Nothing


    much had changed from before.


    Josie was thirsty. She found a bottle of wine and poured two sses. ¡°The first time I came here was


    with Dexter.¡±


    Arnold took off his shirt and went into the bathroom to take a shower.


    Leaning against the door, Josie continued, ¡°You were in a meeting, and it seemed Heather was there


    too. The moment I saw her, I felt an overwhelming sense of familiarity.¡±


    As the sound of water echoed from within, Josie had no idea how much Arnold had heard.


    ¡°Speaking of which, she started as your assistant. And now, she¡¯s be the daughter of the Olsen


    family. In the future, she might even marry Dexter. Honestly, don¡¯t you feel a bit unsettled?¡±


    As Josie asked, she quietly took out a transparent pouch from her bag and dropped a pill into the wine


    ss.


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond. After a while, the sound of water stopped. He came out, drying his hair. While


    doing so, he exuded an unbridled charm.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, youing home with me in the middle of the night will give others the wrong idea.¡±


    Josie was puzzled. ¡°Who¡¯s going to have the wrong idea?¡±


    Arnold gave her a deep look, ultimately choosing to walk past her. ¡°If I had known she was the


    daughter of the Olsen family, I would never have let her be an assistant.¡±


    ¡°If you knew, would you have made her yours?¡±


    Josie held up a ss of wine and took a sip, then handed the other ss to him.


    Arnold took it from her only after she had drunk. ¡°How will you drive home after drinking?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll head back tomorrow,¡± she said with an ambiguous smile.


    ¡°This tactic is useless against me.¡±


    Josie drained her ss in one gulp. ¡°Then have someone send me home.¡±


    Arnold frowned, seemingly at a loss with her. He took a small sip and clicked his tongue. ¡°Louis XIII,


    you sure have good taste.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile bloomed like a flower.


    Two minutester, Arnold copsed on the bed,pletely drained of energy.

 Chapter 912

    Chapter 912


    Chapter 912 Stealing The Data


    Josie looked at him lying on the bed with her brows furrowed before she quietly left the room.


    The advantage of always being treated as Mrs. Carter by Arnold¡¯s subordinates was that she could


    move freely in the club without arousing suspicion. Over time, Josie gradually epted this identity.


    To her knowledge, Arnold had a study in the club. She searched around and found it locked, secured


    by abination lock.


    She bent over, seeing her own face through the gleaming door.


    Birthday? No, that¡¯s not it. His wedding anniversary? That¡¯s not it either.


    The lock indicated only one more chance to input the correct code. Josie¡¯s palms were drenched in


    sweat. She pulled out her phone to look up some information, then entered a number. Instantly, the


    door beeped and swung open.


    It was the date Edward was sent to prison.


    The study was spacious, filled with a multitude of documents and misceneous items. Josie walked in


    and closed the door behind her. She spent a good while rummaging around, most of what she found


    were materials rted to the Carter Group.


    She showed no interest in those things. Instead, she was busy exploring hidden doors and cabs.


    Eventually, she found a cab where Arnold kept his tea leaves and noticed that it was locked.


    There was a row of chamomile tea.


    I have to guess the password again.


    This time, there¡¯s only one chance. If she failed, an rm would be triggered, which meant she didn¡¯t


    have the luxury of trial and error.


    Her heart pounded like a drum, and it took her a good while to gather the courage to press the


    numbers.


    010923


    It was Heather¡¯s birthday.


    No, not Heather¡¯s. It¡¯s Liana¡¯s. This is Liana¡¯s birthday.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie squinted her eyes, watching as the lock opened. She was astounded by the fact that Arnold used


    that password.


    Why did Arnold set this number?


    Inside, there wasn¡¯t much, other than a few documents. Among them, strikingly, was Heather¡¯s


    background file¡­


    The photo on it was of Heather before she had stic surgery, along with her real name: Rachel.


    Josie subconsciously tightened her grip on the paper.


    The background investigation by Arnold was incredibly thorough, covering incidents from Rachel¡¯s


    childhood to adulthood. Josie, feeling like she was handling a hot potato, didn¡¯t have time to look


    through it carefully. Hence, she stuffed all the documents into her bag.


    As she left the study, she happened to notice that the door to the most luxurious private room was


    locked, clearly indicating someone was inside. She stopped a waiter. ¡°Do we have guests today?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The waiter looked at her with a somewhat strange expression.


    ¡°A VIP?¡±


    ¡°What are you saying? Isn¡¯t everyone whoes in here a VIP?¡±


    Josie took the wine from his hand. ¡°Let me deliver it.¡±


    The waiter hastily protested, ¡°This isn¡¯t appropriate. Mr. Carter wouldn¡¯t allow it.¡±


    Josie said tly, ¡°Since they are VIPs, they must be Arnold¡¯s friends. So let me entertain his friends on


    his behalf. Do you not trust me?¡±


    The waiter was sweating profusely, saying that was not what he meant. ¡°Mrs. Carter, I¡¯m afraid you


    might be shocked by it.¡±


    Shocked?


    Josie¡¯s resolve to go in became even stronger. She picked up the wine, bypassed the waiter, and said,


    ¡°I know what I¡¯m doing. I won¡¯t me you for it.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she pushed the door of the private room open.


    Inside, it was vast and filled with soft music. The air was heavy with the scent of smoke. Josie


    navigated through the crowd and made her way in, cing the wine on the table. She then began to


    open the bottles one by one with a corkscrew.


    Most of the people there were young and affluent second-generation rich who spent money like water.


    As there was nothing special about them, Josie didn¡¯t understand why the waiter said there were VIP


    guests.


    Just as she turned around, she suddenly noticed someone lying in the corner of the couch. She


    couldn¡¯t quite make out the face, only the silhouette. The person had a syringe pressed against her


    arm, her entire demeanor exuding a peculiar sense of pleasure.


    Josie was stunned.


    Summer! Why is she here? What is she doing¡­


    Due to Josie staring for too long, someone suddenly threw a cup at her. ¡°What are you looking at? Get


    out!¡±

 Chapter 913

    Chapter 913


    Chapter 913 Not Of Blood Rtion


    They think I¡¯m an attendant. Josie mustered all her strength to calm herself down.


    She steadied her emotions, ready to leave. However, just at that moment, the door to the private room


    was forcefully pushed open, flooding the room with light.


    A swarm of bodyguards rushed in from outside, swiftly clearing the area. ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±


    Those scions instinctively covered their heads and crouched down.


    Josie squinted her eyes, and to her surprise, she saw an elegant and extremely noble woman


    approaching from the end of the path.


    The neer was udia.


    She stood firm, her voice not loud butmanding. ¡°I don¡¯t want any trouble. Everyone out.¡±


    A group of people nced at Summer, who was lying on the sofa in a drunken stupor, before scattering


    in all directions.


    The matriarch of the Olsen family had personallye to clean up the mess. There was no avoiding


    the matter.


    Before udia could look her way, Josie turned her head aside, pulled out a mask, and put it on. Then,


    she took out her phone, switched on the camera, and ced it in her chest pocket.


    She cleared her throat, her voice raspy. ¡°Should I clean?¡±


    udia nced at her, noticing nothing amiss. ¡°Remove her needle.¡±


    Josie nodded, walked over to Summer, removed the syringe, and carefully put away each item. Her


    movements were professional, having observed others do the same in La Oriele before.


    Summer was not fully awake. She opened her eyes in a daze, still smiling. ¡°Mother, you¡¯re here¡­¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    udia frowned, tossing a coat over her, her voice icy cold. ¡°How long has it been?¡±


    Summer, hugging udia¡¯s arm, acted coy. ¡°I thought you¡¯d forgotten about me, only having Liana in


    your heart.¡±


    ¡°How long has this been going on!¡± udia pushed her away and pped Summer across the face,


    unable to contain her anger.


    Summer winced in pain, gradually regaining her rity. She looked at udia, whose chest was


    heaving, and asked, ¡°Who told you I was here?¡±


    udia looked at her without saying a word.


    Summer began to shout, ¡°Was it Liana? That wretched woman!¡±


    p! Another pnded. udia showed no mercy, hitting Summer so hard that blood trickled from


    the corner of thetter¡¯s mouth. ¡°You must be out of your mind,¡± she said. ¡°If your father finds out about


    this, it¡¯ll be the end of you.¡±


    Summer covered her face and took a deep breath. A frightening look filled her gaze. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for


    you, I would have died long ago. Why should I stay in this world to suffer!¡±


    udia¡¯s hand trembled as she pointed to the items Josie had arranged. ¡°Did Arnold provide these for


    you?¡±


    Summer wiped her mouth. ¡°I requested them.¡±


    Tears were clearly visible in udia¡¯s eyes as she cried out. ¡°Why!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know why, my dear mother?¡± Summer, like a rose about to wither, spoke loudly. ¡°It must


    have been hard for you to hide this for so many years. What do you think will happen if Zach finds out


    that we are not your biological children?¡±


    Upon hearing the unexpected news, Josie frozepletely. What? Summer and Zach are not actually


    their biological children?


    Summerughed. ¡°Will he be like me too?¡±


    udia was trembling all over, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Stop pretending. I¡¯ve had the DNA tested.¡± Summer leaned back, lighting a cigarette. ¡°So, that¡¯s why


    Father never wanted to hand over the reins to me.¡±


    Her certainty left udia with no room for rebuttal. For a moment, she didn¡¯t know what to say. The


    room fell into silence.


    ¡°Mother, I finally understand why, even though you already have us, you still went to such great lengths


    to find Liana. It turns out that Liana is your only child.¡±


    Summer¡¯s gaze was filled with contempt and a touch of self-mockery.


    Josie¡¯s hands trembled uncontrobly as she packed the things, forcing herself to calm down.

 Chapter 914

    Chapter 914


    Chapter 914 Death Of Biological Parents


    ¡°Who told you?¡± udia questioned.


    Summer remained silent, just smoking.


    ¡°Even so, ask yourself, haven¡¯t we treated you like our own daughter? From childhood to adulthood, in


    terms of clothing, food, housing, and transportation, where have we ever let youck?¡± udia said to


    her, feeling heartbroken. ¡°It¡¯s not like we haven¡¯t given you anything, Sum!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better to have none at all!¡± Summer roared. ¡°What you¡¯ve given me is nothing more than


    convenient benefits, not true affection!¡±


    She asked with a trembling voice, ¡°Who are my parents?¡±


    udia didn¡¯t respond but directly grabbed her hand and pulled her up. ¡°I¡¯m taking you to the drug


    rehabilitation center.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t go!¡± Summer¡¯s pupils dted. ¡°Do you really want the whole world to know that the daughter of


    the Olsen family is such a person?¡±


    udia¡¯s originally stubborn actions slowed down at that moment. She hesitated.


    Summer, understanding her state of mind, continued to ask, ¡°Who are my parents?¡±


    udia had her back to her, took a deep breath, and said, ¡°They¡¯re dead.¡±


    A long silence ensued. Just as Josie was about to look up, Summer suddenly grabbed a cup and


    fiercely smashed it against the wall, creating a loud shattering noise.


    In the end, themotion there managed to disturb Arnold.


    He received a message and hurriedly threw on a robe, his steps in disarray. ¡°Mother¡ª¡±


    Just as Josie was getting up, he brushed past him.


    From inside came a faintmotion. It was udia raising her hand once again, pping Arnold. ¡°I


    entrusted my daughter to you, and this is what you teach her!¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t look back. She lowered her head and quickly walked away. Only when she was outside did


    she remove her mask, taking a deep breath.


    She could have never imagined that Summer and Zach were not actually biological children of the


    Olsen family and that she was the only true descendant of the Olsen family.


    Josie was in a daze, stumbling to find a corner to calm herself. The overwhelming amount of


    information left her unable to regain herposure. No wonder. No wonder I¡¯ve never had any so-


    called spiritual connection with Summer. It turns out we¡¯re not rted by blood.


    Her phone vibrated. Arnold sent her a message: Stay where you are and wait for me.


    He knew, and he probably guessed it too.


    Josie would never let him boss her around. She left the club directly, only to run into Scar again. This


    time, he brought some people with him, and his attitude was not as pleasant as it had been at the


    hospital. ¡°Josie, you cannot leave.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Our boss has given us themand, so we cannot disobey.¡±


    Josie hung her head, realizing she couldn¡¯t escape this situation. She turned around. ¡°I can at least use


    the restroom, right?¡±


    Scarface remained silent, signaling a female attendant to apany her.


    Josie entered the restroom. The attendant followed closely behind. She frowned, ¡°Do you n to watch


    me use the bathroom?¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The attendant looked troubled, stepping back. ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you outside.¡±


    Josie closed the door and immediately took out the contents from her bag. Then, with a forceful motion,


    she opened the toilet tank. She ced the documents, which were in a transparent bag, inside the


    toilet tank, and then promptly closed the lid.


    She emerged, and only when the attendant saw that she was unharmed did she feel relieved.


    Josie followed her out the door, pondering how to deal with Arnold. However, just at that moment, a


    person suddenly sprang out from the corner, striking the female attendant¡¯s neck with a hand chop.


    She fainted on the spot.


    Josie furrowed her brows as the person turned around. ¡°Ms. Jo.¡±


    ¡°Moses?¡± she eximed in surprise.


    ¡°Mr. Russell has received the message.¡± He spoke sinctly, tossing her a set of clothes. ¡°Put these


    on. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Josie pressed her lips together. She had no choice but to ept under the circumstances.


    Once she had changed, Moses also switched into an attendant¡¯s attire. Silently, he led her to leave


    through the back door while avoiding Scar.

 Chapter 915

    Chapter 915


    Chapter 915 The Trap Set By Dexter


    On a secluded road, under the faint glow of the streetlights, a car stood still, exuding an aura of


    authority.


    Moses turned his head, ¡°He¡¯s waiting for you.¡±


    The man sat in the back seat, a green stubble peeking out from his jaw. His shirt was slightly


    unbuttoned, and his mood remained inscrutable. He toyed with a string of rosary beads in his hand, his


    movements slow. Yet, Josie felt a murderous intent emanating from him.


    With a grit of her teeth, Josie opened the car door and slid in, draping herself over his shoulder. Her


    tone was teasing as she said, ¡°You follow me wherever I go. Are you secretly in love with me?¡±


    Dexter exerted some force to push her aside, ¡°You¡¯re quite brave, venturing alone into the lion¡¯s den.¡±


    Josie copsed to one side, feeling that his tone was even more unpredictable.


    At this moment, he wasn¡¯t as easygoing as he had been a few days ago.


    ¡°How did you know I was here? I¡¯ve checked; no one was following me.¡±


    Dexter nced at her, his face backlit, making it hard to discern his expression. ¡°Stop meddling and


    just focus on your studio. Even if you¡¯re with Morgan, it¡¯s enough to ensure a wealthy and peaceful life


    for yourtter years. Why are you stirring up all this trouble?¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure how much he knew, so she could only guess.


    She clenched her fists and chuckledzily as she replied, ¡°I¡¯m getting back at Heather. She stole my


    husband, and I can¡¯t take that insult.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t even bother to look at her as he said, ¡°This is nonsense. It has nothing to do with her.¡±


    ¡°Still speaking up for her at this point? You must really care about her.¡±


    He put the rosary beads away, bent down to lift her chin, his aura overpowering as he said, ¡°The


    turmoil in Wavery is intense. Keeping you out of it is for your own good.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°I don¡¯t see it that way.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see what happened to Summer? Howe you still haven¡¯t learned your lesson?¡± he


    asked with a smile ying at the corners of his mouth.


    Josie¡¯s body tensed up immediately. She looked at him in disbelief, ¡°Y-You arranged that?¡±


    Dexter absentmindedly stroked her chin without uttering a word.


    She was like a startled kitten, immobilized as she reflected on everything that had just happened.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it Arnold? Only Arnold would have those things!¡±


    Dexter chuckled softly. ¡°In extraordinary times, one needs to take extraordinary measures. Thanks to


    the favor you did for me a while ago, I¡¯ve put in quite a bit of effort to give Summer a taste of hardship.


    This is one of them.¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie¡¯s lips were trembling as she mumbled, ¡°It was you who got Summer addicted¡­ Once she got


    addicted, she would constantly ask Arnold for it, and over time¡­¡±


    ¡°Sooner orter, udia will find out,¡± Dexter said, finishing her sentence.


    Facing this man, Josie felt a chill down her spine. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°To avenge you.¡± He always remembered the humiliation from the incident with the picture.


    She shook her head. ¡°Was it also you who told Summer that she¡¯s not your biological child?¡±


    Dexter withdrew his hand, seemingly fed up. ¡°No, that wasn¡¯t me. Someone else had been talking too


    much.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯ve known all along.¡± Josie couldn¡¯t control her trembling once again. She never expected that


    Dexter had known from the start.


    Her mind was spinning rapidly.


    If he had known earlier, it would mean that he had known all along that Liana was his only bloodline,


    and thus, he had indulged her wishful thinking. In all this, what¡¯s being weighed and considered are


    interests.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed several times, the cold and restrained man in front of her instilled fear in her.


    At the stalemate, Moses came over and knocked on the car door, ¡°Mr. Russell, everything¡¯s been taken


    care of over there.¡±


    Dexter simply nodded in acknowledgment, and Moses withdrew. Immediately after, several cars


    suddenly sped out of the club, heading straight out at a high speed.

 Chapter 916

    Chapter 916


    Chapter 916 Gone Missing


    The phone Josie had stashed in her bag began to vibrate intensely. She fished it out and saw that it


    was a call from Arnold.


    She wanted to hang up immediately, but Dexter said in a deep and authoritative tone, ¡°Answer it.¡±


    She gripped her phone tightly, hesitating for a moment before answering the call.


    From over there came the hurried breaths of Arnold, holding back from exploding in anger at the brink.


    There was a moment of silence, then Arnold asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°Did you and Dexter conspire


    against me?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, turning to look at Dexter, who remained impassive as he stood beside her.


    ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡± Arnold¡¯s voice rose, carrying a faint hint of a sob.


    She was taken aback, looking again at Dexter, his face showing restrained patience.


    ¡°Pass this message to Dexter. Tell him that I will settle this score, so he should be extremely careful.¡±


    Arnold abruptly hung up the phone after he finished speaking. Josie tossed her cell phone aside and


    asked, ¡°What have you done?¡±


    Dexter looked at the sky ahead and said, ¡°Dawn is approaching. Let¡¯s head back and rest.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie was most annoyed by his attitude. ¡°If you¡¯re going to use me like a tool, then you should


    at least tell me what you¡¯ve done!¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    The man finally nced sideways, looking at her with a pitiful gaze as he replied, ¡°I told you not to get


    close to these people, but you didn¡¯t listen. Now that you¡¯re involved, you should at least make yourself


    useful, right?¡±


    Josie¡¯s palms drenched in sweat as she anxiously tried to guess. ¡°Edward is the only person who could


    make Arnold lose control. Something happened to Edward because of you.¡±


    Dexter neither refuted nor admitted to her statement, continuing to fiddle with his rosary beads as he


    said, ¡°Grandpa¡¯s death should not be exploited in vain.¡±


    Josie suddenly understood what happened. Slumping weakly against her chair, she asked, ¡°Summer


    showing up here today was your doing, wasn¡¯t it? You nned for udia to find out, so you


    deliberately drew Arnold¡¯s attention.¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, Dexter raised a yful smile. ¡°You are more crucialpared to


    her.¡±


    Josie was an unexpected factor, but her presence was evidently more useful than that of Summer¡¯s.


    She managed to lead Arnold away, buying a lot of time.


    Josie never expected that his series of actions would turn her into a pawn of Dexter¡¯s. ¡°What have you


    done, could it be Edward is¡­¡±


    ¡°Finding a simr recement was quiteplicated. It took a lot of effort.¡± Dexter frowned at the


    thought of that. He looked at Josie as he continued, ¡°He has gone too far. I put him in jail, but he¡¯s


    always thinking of escaping. In that case, he might as well stay with me forever.¡±


    As he spoke, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill run down her spine. She had thought that Dexter was


    not retaliating because his grandfather had passed away and he was being considerate. But to her


    surprise, he had been deliberately biding his time, waiting until today to strike.


    He remained the monster who must retaliate for every slight.


    Fear was etched on her face, which displeased Dexter. He reached out, pressing her neck to draw her


    closer to himself. ¡°Scared? Someday, you¡¯ll be grateful for what I did today.¡±


    Josie squinted her eyes when she heard that. That¡¯s a strange thing to say¡­


    The street lights went out as the sky outside gradually brightened, and Josie was utterly exhausted,


    sitting right where she was.


    ¡°How did you know I would go see Arnold?¡±


    Dexter lit a cigarette, taking it in puff by puff as he replied, ¡°Paul¡¯s lead is with him. Whether you go or


    not is just a matter of time.¡±


    He really knew!


    ¡°How much do you know about Pop¡¯s whereabouts? Could you please tell me?¡± she asked, on guard


    and somewhat pleading.


    Dexter flicked off the ash from his cigarette. ¡°No more than you.¡±


    As Josie¡¯s heart sank heavily, he added, ¡°So, we need something to restrain Arnold, don¡¯t we?¡±


    Dawn broke. Dexter got out of the car and instructed Moses to take Josie home. After all, she had


    learned too much and was not in a good mental state.

 Chapter 917

    Chapter 917


    Chapter 917 Kill Her By Collision


    She slept restlessly.


    Faces of many people appeared in her dreams, including Summer¡¯s, Edward¡¯s, and even Dexter¡¯s.


    They tormented her nerves, the agony constantly reverberating through her.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Josie jolted awake.


    She nced at her vibrating phone beside her. A sense of dread washed over her. The caller ID


    showed it was Morgan calling.


    She paused for a moment, got up to pour herself a drink, and answered the call, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    There was a moment of silence on the other end, then quickly came the question. ¡°Your voice sounds


    off. Did you just wake up?¡±


    Josie nced at the time, which read five in the afternoon, and denied, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I just received news. Edward has disappeared.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes briefly, wanting to say that she knew this news before him, but she still pretended


    to be puzzled. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°He was taken awayst night, and his whereabouts are unknown.¡± There was a probing tone in


    Morgan¡¯s voice. ¡°You didn¡¯t know?¡±


    ¡°Arnold will go mad,¡± Josie chimed in with a coldugh.


    Morgan remained silent for a moment, then said, ¡°It will be a while before I can return to Wavery. You


    should step out for a bit. Go somewhere.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, he sent her an address. It was the same office building where they had


    metst time. It was his workce in Wavery.


    After tidying up, Josie stepped out of her house. Her destination was close enough to reach by foot. As


    she walked, she couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of being watched. Yet, every time she turned around,


    there was no one in sight.


    She turned the corner and hid at the entrance of the alley, waiting for quite a while. Sure enough, a


    man quietly followed her, looking like someone who was proficient inbat.


    He didn¡¯t find Josie and quickly left.


    Josie let out a sigh of relief and continued to move forward.


    At that critical moment, she couldn¡¯t determine who was tracking her.


    Having managed to slip away from the crowd, Josie breathed a sigh of relief and strode down the


    street. Unbeknownst to her, a ck Santana was suddenly speeding toward her from a distance,


    heading straight for her.


    Whoosh!


    The screeching halt of a vehicle startled Josie. She turned around, only to see a white car abruptly


    blocking a Santana, both vehicles rmingly close to her.


    If it weren¡¯t for the white car, the Santana might have hit her.


    Josie¡¯s pupils dted.


    Knowing the attempt had failed, the Santana quickly turned around and left.


    She was still feeling a lingering fear.


    The window of the white car rolled down, revealing a familiar face. ¡°Get in.¡±


    ¡°Mallory?¡± Josie was surprised, taking a seat. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I came here on business and happened to see you,¡± Mallory said, her brows furrowed. ¡°What¡¯s going


    on? If it weren¡¯t for me, that car would have killed you.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Speaking of that, Josie was equally startled. ¡°In my current situation, I don¡¯t even know who wants to


    harm me.¡±


    Mallory let out a sigh. ¡°Any progress?¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure how to describe it. ¡°Not quite. By the way, can you do me a favor?¡±


    Mallory listened attentively.


    After listening, she chuckled. ¡°So, you¡¯re asking me to do some research for thepetitor?¡±


    Josie gave a bitter smile. ¡°I can¡¯t return Sky Pce, but I must get my hands on that document. Arnold


    probably doesn¡¯t even know I¡¯ve taken it yet.¡±


    Mallory was confident. ¡°Wait for my message.¡±


    Josie watched her drive away before she entered the office building. She asked Ryan for the elevator


    card, and only then did she enter Morgan¡¯s office.


    His office was very tidy, with hardly any objects around.


    Ryan guided her to open theptop on the table, then handed her a pair of headphones. ¡°Instructions


    from Mr. Bastille.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°What is this?¡±

 Chapter 918

    Chapter 918


    Chapter 918 Eavesdropping


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryan did not respond.


    She had no choice but to put on the headphones. The sound was initially fuzzy, but after a while, it


    became clear. To her surprise, it was Heather¡¯s.


    ¡°Dex, the fifteenth is a big day. Would it be okay to set the wedding date on the fifteenth?¡± Her voice


    was sweet and clear.


    After a moment, Dexter¡¯s somewhat distant voice came through. ¡°Okay. You decide.¡±


    Josie subconsciously clenched her fist.


    Heather added relentlessly, ¡°What do you think of this wedding dress? If you find it beautiful, I¡¯ll have it


    custom-made right away.¡±


    Dexter seemed to nce over. ¡°It suits you very well.¡±


    Heatherughed joyfully, wrapping her arms around his neck from behind. ¡°I hope my father¡¯s


    intentions haven¡¯t put you in a difficult position. I¡¯ve been looking forward to being your wife ever since I


    was a little girl.¡±


    Dexter chuckled lightly. ¡°Being able to marry you is my fortune. I should have given you more time to


    prepare, but the situation doesn¡¯t wait for anyone. I hope you understand.¡±


    Heather held on tighter, a hint of nervousness in her voice as she asked, ¡°Dex, did you have a wedding


    ceremony when you married her?¡±


    That question plunged both parties into a brief silence.


    Josie felt a bit breathless. She and Dexter had only obtained their marriage certificate. They never had


    a wedding ceremony. Her grandfather had mentioned it, and so had he, but in the end, it was all left


    unresolved due to their busy schedules. Is he going to arrange a wedding for Heather now? Indeed, it¡¯s


    only fitting for the daughter of the Olsen family to receive such treatment.


    ¡°No.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was low.


    ¡°Am I, in any way, special, then?¡± Heather asked bravely.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Josie removed her headphones and took a deep breath, preventing herself from suffocating.


    Ryan stood to one side, silently watching her movements.


    After a while, she looked up and asked, ¡°What does Morgan mean by this?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bastille said you should reap what you sowed.¡± Ryan recounted. ¡°Thisputer is connected to


    an eavesdropping device. It can hear every move of Dexter, and no one has opened it. Mr. Bastille is


    giving it to you, hoping you can rest assured.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. She hadn¡¯t expected Morgan to give her theputer.


    From the moment he installed the bug, she thought he was going to control everything. Now, he¡¯s


    actually giving me full authority? ¡°What is he ying at?¡±


    Ryan shook his head. ¡°He has your best interest at heart.¡±


    Josie stared at him for a while. Then, after a moment, she chose to close theptop and take it with


    her. ¡°Thank him for me.¡±


    Ryan followed her.


    ¡°Why are you still following me?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bastille insists on ensuring you get home safely.¡±


    Josie wanted to ask why was he bothering to escort her home now when he didn¡¯t assign anyone to


    pick her up. However, recalling the lingering fear from earlier, she didn¡¯t refuse. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Coincidentally, when Josie arrived at the door, Angel was standing nearby, holding files, clearly having


    waited for a long time.


    She saw Josie and quickly stepped forward. ¡°Ms. Jo.¡± Then, she noticed Ryan behind her, somewhat


    surprised. Her voice softened. ¡°Where have you been?¡±


    Josie followed her gaze and also looked at Ryan.


    ¡°Handled some business. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°These are the backlog files from the studio. I brought them over for you to sign.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say to give full authority to Alice to run thepany when I¡¯m not around?¡±


    Angel nodded. ¡°These are things that Alice couldn¡¯t handle, so she asked me to bring them over.¡±


    Josie understood and led her into the house, leaving Ryan outside. Unable to resist, Angel asked,


    ¡°Why is Mr. Garcia with you?¡±


    Josie signed her name, her expression unchanged. ¡°Angel, have you broken up with Jade?¡±

 Chapter 919

    Chapter 919


    Chapter 919 The Fifteenth


    Caught off guard by the question, Angel paused for a moment, then shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    With a smile, Josie said, ¡°It¡¯s no good for you to miss someone else while already having a boyfriend.¡±


    Angel¡¯s face instantly turned half-red. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I was just¡­ curious.¡±


    Ryan indeed appeared to be a calm andposed man, quite different from Jade¡¯s style. Considering


    their simr ages, it was understandable why Angel would be attracted to him.


    ¡°Regardless of the circumstances, we must handle rtionships carefully so as not to hurt others¡¯


    feelings.¡± After Josie finished signing, she put the pen away and smiled.


    Angel revealed an embarrassed expression, struggling before she finally said, ¡°Will you believe me if I


    said I didn¡¯t initiate it?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows.


    ¡°Ryan was the one who started it.¡±


    Josie immediately stood up, ready to open the door and confront the person outside. However, Angel


    grabbed Josie¡¯s hand and shook her head, ¡°Don¡¯t put me in a difficult position.¡±


    It took Josie a while to calm down. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you refuse?¡±


    ¡°He threatened me, but¡­ I actually found myself enjoying it,¡± Angie confessed, her voiceden with


    guilt.


    Josie understood.


    She chuckled self-deprecatingly. ¡°Isn¡¯t that just human nature?¡±


    Angel asked, ¡°What about you? Have you ever wavered?¡±


    That question stumped Josie, leaving her somewhat dazed. ¡°Have you ever heard a song?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°It went something like ¡®Grant her theplete experience that you can¡¯t give me¡¯.¡±


    Josie hesitated before, but one man never left her heart.


    Somberly, she muttered, ¡°Promise me you¡¯ll return and make it clear to Jade that you¡¯re determined to


    break up.¡±


    Angel agreed.


    After Angel left, Josie couldn¡¯t help but call Morgan. The call was quickly answered on the other end.


    With a hoarse voice, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    That time, it was Josie who was puzzled. ¡°Were you sleeping?¡±


    Morgan didn¡¯t respond directly. He merely rustled softly for a moment. ¡°What do you want to tell me?¡±


    ¡°Manage your own staff. Don¡¯t mess with my people.¡± With that, Josie hung up the phone, leaving


    Morganpletely baffled on the other end.


    As night fell, Josie sat by the window, staring nkly at the ckputer.


    After a long while, she finally turned on herputer and put her headphones back on.


    Her palms were stained with sweat, fearing she might hear inappropriate sounds between a man and a


    woman. However, what she heard was Mark¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Dexter, always leave room for retreat when you do things. Wavery can¡¯t always be dominated by you


    alone.¡± Those words were spoken by Mark in a serious tone, indicating anger.


    Upon hearing that, Dexter replied casually, ¡°Both are your sons-inw. How can you show favoritism?


    Are you trying to back Arnold?¡±


    Mark said, ¡°Your grandfather has passed away, and I¡¯m teaching you how to handle matters. In the


    future, Russell Group and even the entire Olsen family will be entrusted to you. How can I be at ease if


    you¡¯re so extreme?¡±


    Dexter seemed to take a sip of coffee. ¡°Mr. Olsen, I¡¯m delighted to hear you say that. However, I


    suspect some people may take issue with your words.¡±


    Mark was filled with anger toward Dexter, yet there was nothing he could do.


    ¡°The wedding is set on the fifteenth. It¡¯s a big day, so you should take good care of your health, Mr.


    Olsen,¡± Dexter said before getting up and leaving.


    What Josie heard next was the sound of footsteps.


    She remained silent in the darkness. It seems that the marriage was truly settled.


    Meanwhile, Heather had been waiting for a long time, so when she spotted Dexter, she clung to his


    arm. ¡°What did father say to you?¡±

 Chapter 920

    Chapter 920


    Chapter 920 Threatening Her With Mallory


    Josie closed theputer, not wanting to listen anymore.


    Suddenly, she was overwhelmed by a feeling of disgust, as if she had been tossed aside and forgotten


    in a corner.


    Bright and early the next day, Mallory arrived on time. She handed over the documents that had gotten


    wet, saying, ¡°It took quite a bit of effort, but as always, I didn¡¯t look.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°Thank you, I trust you.¡±


    After collecting the materials, she returned home, ready to start reading. Just then, she suddenly


    received a call from Mallory.


    She furrowed her brows in confusion. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is there anything else?¡±


    There was a moment of silence, then a man¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Come over here yourself.¡±


    Josie¡¯s scalp tingled fiercely. Arnold!


    She pulled out her phone and rechecked the phone number, confirming it was indeed Mallory¡¯s.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°Are you insane? She¡¯s Calvin¡¯s woman! How dare you touch her!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s voice was very calm. ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of Dexter, so why would I be afraid of Calvin? Come over


    here, I don¡¯t want to repeat myself.¡±


    When the call ended, her phone slipped onto the floor. Josie understood what Arnold meant, which was


    that Dexter wouldn¡¯t know about it.


    She opened the documents sent by Mallory only to find that they were all nk papers.


    Mallory had taken risks for Josie several times, so thetter couldn¡¯t possibly abandon the former.


    Gritting her teeth, she called Calvin, who answered in surprise, ¡°Josie?¡±


    Josie said, ¡°Listen to me, Mallory is missing. She is now¨C¡±


    ¡°We broke up two months ago.¡± His words instantly extinguished all of Josie¡¯s hope.


    As such, Josie went to the same private room in Sky Pce asst time when Summer was there.


    Scar opened the door and was surprised to see Josie, who hade alone. He eximed, ¡°It¡¯s really


    you, Mrs. Carter.¡±


    Arnold sat in the seat of honor, a woman nestled in his arms. He toyed with a lighter in his hand,


    expressionlessly and indifferently. A row of liquor bottles adorned the table.


    Andy stepped forward and said, ¡°Dexter has an engagement today on a ship. That ship will sail toward


    the open sea tonight, and there should be people on board who are under hismand.¡±


    Arnold flicked on the lighter. ¡°Have we found out who it is yet?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. He¡¯s very cautious,¡± Andy nced at Josie. ¡°However, what¡¯s certain is that he won¡¯t be back


    tonight.¡±


    Josie stood by the door, her face rapidly turning pale.


    It seemed like Arnold was gearing up for a reckoning.


    There was someone in the room. They pushed Josie forward, causing her to kneel before Arnold. ¡°My


    apologies, Mrs. Carter.¡±


    Josie¡¯s knee hit the ground, causing a sharp pain. She looked up. ¡°Arnold, if you have any issues, take


    them out on me, not Mallory. She¡¯s innocent.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Seeing that you¡¯re working with Dexter to scheme against me, indeed, it¡¯s you I should be punishing.¡±


    He raised an eyebrow, lifting her chin with his lighter. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since I¡¯ve seen you in this pitiful


    state.¡±


    Most of the time after the incident, she was quite arrogant.


    Yet, Josie was still humiliated by him.


    ¡°Do you like drinking? Louis XIII, right?¡± Arnold still remembered the medicinal taste of the liquor. ¡°Drink


    all of these on the table, and I¡¯ll let Mallory go.¡±


    The bottle caps of the alcohol on the table had already been removed.


    Josie¡¯s throat was sore. ¡°I can¡¯t drink this much.¡±


    Hearing those words, the woman nestled in Arnold¡¯s armsughed. She was dressed simply, herugh


    charming. She said, ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve seen someone ask for help with such ack of sincerity.¡±


    Arnold alsoughed, toying with the woman¡¯s hair. ¡°You think so too, huh?¡±


    The woman poured a ss of wine and brought it to Arnold¡¯s lips. ¡°If she doesn¡¯t cherish the


    opportunity, we¡¯ll just throw Mallory into the sea.¡±

 Chapter 921

    Chapter 921


    After finishing her speech, Josie knelt on the ground, motionless. Scar immediately stepped forward,


    intending to force himself on her, but Josie pushed him away, grabbed the wine from the table, and


    downed it in one gulp.


    Due to drinking too quickly, she choked on the wine as it went down her throat and coughed for a long


    time, looking as disheveled as a soaked dog.


    Arnold simply observed as the woman beside him lit a cigarette for him. He opened his mouth to take


    the cigarette, took a puff, and blew a cloud of smoke around him.


    After finishing a bottle, Josie felt the alcohol rush to her head and started to feel dizzy. She forced


    herself to stay alert, staring at Arnold as she asked, ¡°Where is Mallory?¡±


    He responded with a mocking nce.


    The woman beside her handed her a second bottle of wine. ¡°One bottle is not enough.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s gaze shifted to the woman as he said, ¡°You¡¯re quite clever.¡±


    The woman epted thepliment, snuggling into his arms. ¡°That¡¯s because you taught me well, Mr.


    Carter.¡±


    Josie clenched her teeth and knew she had to y along for now. She grabbed the second bottle and


    forced herself to gulp it down. The strong liquor burned her throat, feeling like needles pricking her.


    Before she could finish drinking it, however, she coughed and spat out half of it, dirtying the woman¡¯s


    foot. The woman jumped in shock, eximing, ¡°What are you doing? That¡¯s so disgusting!¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows tightly. Instinctively, she reached for a tissue to wipe it off, but the woman


    immediately pulled away and nestled into Arnold¡¯s arms. ¡°She did it on purpose, Mr. Carter¡­¡±


    Arnold finished his cigarette and emitted an aura of hostility as he asked, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°She caused this mess with her mouth, so she should clean it up with her mouth,¡± the woman replied.


    Although she appeared wronged, her expression clearly showed that she was waiting to humiliate


    Josie.


    Arnold stared at the woman and asked with a smile, ¡°Do you know who she is?¡±


    The woman was momentarily taken aback, but quickly responded, ¡°I know that no one whoes here


    is ordinary, but don¡¯t they all have to listen to you, Mr. Carter?¡±


    Upon hearing her response, he maintained his smile and asked, ¡°Do you know Dexter¡¯s ex-wife?¡±


    The woman¡¯s expression stiffened momentarily upon hearing him mention Dexter, but she quickly


    regained herposure and replied, ¡°She¡¯s just an ex-wife.¡±


    ¡°You think you¡¯re so clever,¡± Arnold said, looking away from the woman.


    Josie had already withdrawn her hand and was meticulously wiping each finger clean with a tissue. Her


    eyes were filled with newfound fearlessness as she met his gaze.


    The woman then picked up the third bottle of wine and handed it to Arnold. ¡°You give it to her.¡±


    If you can¡¯t read a man¡¯s thoughts while working in a ce like this, then you¡¯re just wasting your time.


    He nced at her, casually took the bottle, and handed it to Josie.


    She snatched it from him and gulped it down. After finishing the third bottle, she picked up the fourth.


    The expression on Arnold¡¯s face darkened slightly, and he shot Scar a nce in response.


    The door to the private room was swiftly pushed open, and a few people shoved a woman inside. She


    was none other than Mallory herself. Her hands and feet were bound, and a rag was stuffed into her


    mouth to keep her quiet. She could only whimper and make muffled noises.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened upon seeing her. ¡°Mallory!¡±


    She wanted to rush over, but was stopped by Arnold¡¯s men.


    ¡°This woman is stubborn. She wouldn¡¯t tell us the truth even after being beaten. Little did she know,


    we¡¯ve already brought her sister-inw over,¡± Scar reported.


    Mallory¡¯s muffled sobs grew louder.


    Arnold nced over. ¡°She¡¯s Calvin¡¯s woman.¡±


    ¡°I heard they¡¯ve already broken up, but this woman owned half of Heaven on Earth before that.¡±


    Arnold chuckled. ¡°Calvin has interfered with so many of my business opportunities for so many years.


    Every wrongdoing has a perpetrator, and every debt has an owner. It¡¯s time to settle the score.¡±


    Scar understood what he meant and signaled his men to take action. They opened bottle after bottle of


    wine, pouring it all into Mallory¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Mmph! You monster!¡± Mallory¡¯s face contorted in agony as they forced hard liquor down her throat.


    Josie couldn¡¯t bear to watch any longer. She crawled toward Arnold on her knees and pleaded, ¡°Please


    spare her! I¡¯ll drink it, okay? I¡¯ll drink it!¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 922

    Chapter 922


    As she spoke, she grabbed the wine from his hand and quickly drank it.


    However, even after finishing his drink, Arnold¡¯s expression remained unchanged. Mallory¡¯s torment


    continued as well. Overwhelmed with emotion, Josie pleaded, ¡°What do you want from me? I¡¯ll do


    anything, just spare Mallory!¡±


    As she spoke, she crawled in front of the woman beside her, gritting her teeth as she tried to suppress


    her dignity. The woman was startled, not expecting Josie to actually do it.


    Arnold¡¯s expression darkened. He abruptly grabbed Josie by the waist and demanded, ¡°Where is my


    father?¡±


    Josie yelled, ¡°I don¡¯t know! I really don¡¯t know! Dexter used me! He didn¡¯t tell me!¡±


    Arnold pressed his finger hard against her lips. He wished he could kill this woman right then and there.


    Josie struggled to get up after being thrown aside. ¡°Make them stop, Arnold! Make them stop!¡±


    The man remained unmoved as he watched the woman lying before him.


    Seeing the situation, the woman beside him realized she had few options left. Taking the initiative, she


    said, ¡°I¡¯ll take her downstairs and handle it, Mr. Carter. You shouldn¡¯t have to witness such a gruesome


    scene.¡±


    Arnold narrowed his eyes and suddenly kicked the table, causing the wine bottles to fall and shatter on


    the floor.


    ¡°Leave!¡±


    The woman was so frightened that she froze in ce. After a while, she finally caught her breath and


    hurriedly scurried away.


    Scar also understood and stopped forcing drinks down Mallory¡¯s throat. He then dragged her out of the


    room, leaving only two people inside.


    ¡°How much do you know now?¡±


    The question confused Josie, making her thoughts jumbled. Mallory¡¯s screams echoed in her ears,


    preventing her from thinking clearly.


    ¡°What are you asking?¡±


    Arnold lifted a cup of wine, holding it above her head, and slowly poured it down.


    ¡°Seeing Mallorye back for her things means you¡¯ve already seen them. How much do you know,


    Josie?¡±


    Josie endured the humiliation as the red wine trickled down her head. Besides feeling wronged, there


    was also extreme anger in her voice as she asked, ¡°Are you asking about Rachel?¡±


    Arnold met her gaze directly, without any evasion.


    ¡°I never expected that Heather was previously known as Rachel,¡± she said with a soft chuckle.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Afterughing for a moment, she slumped weakly onto the floor and said, ¡°But she didn¡¯t look like this


    before, Arnold. You¡¯re quite the strategist.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s gaze lingered, no longer attempting to hide it. ¡°Your appearance has been very helpful to me.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath. ¡°I underestimated your hatred for Dexter. Your chess game began long


    before I came into the picture.¡±


    In reality, Josie hadn¡¯t finished reading the document, but she had already guessed its contents.


    ¡°You started grooming a woman many years ago. This person had to be orphaned, independent, and


    kind-hearted since childhood. You secretly supported her through high school and college. If nothing


    unexpected happened, she would naturallye into contact with Dexter. Under your n, she would


    return to the Olsen family as Liana Olsen.¡±


    Josie found herself in awe of Arnold¡¯s long-term strategy, admiring his strategic brilliance and


    remarkable patience.


    ¡°Unfortunately, the unexpected happened. Dexter got married in secret, and I became the bride. That¡¯s


    when you started getting close to me and tried to learn everything about me in your own way. It was


    also because of me that Rachel couldn¡¯t contact Dexter, making her n to return to the Olsen family


    incredibly difficult.¡±


    Josie sneered. ¡°But you should thank me. Without me, you wouldn¡¯t know exactly what matches


    Liana¡¯s criteria, nor would you have the DNA that could help you go undetected.¡±

 Chapter 923

    Chapter 923


    As she spoke, Arnold¡¯s eyes flickered slightly, as if he too was reminiscing about the journey they had


    taken.


    ¡°Nevertheless, the n to bring Rachel back to the Olsen family was sessful. You had her change


    her name, her appearance, and even her habits. I believe arge part of those habits were learned


    from me right here.¡±


    Knowing about the past bond between Dexter and Liana was what led Arnold to devise such a scheme.


    Josie tilted his head back. ¡°Let me think, when did you find out I was Liana? You must have known


    before I did.¡±


    Arnold leaned back into the leather chair, squinting his eyes to observe her underneath the light.


    She was now like a withered rose.


    ¡°Not only do you know, but Summer also knows. I still can¡¯t figure out why she would agree to this n,


    but this n must be beneficial to her, right?¡±


    Red wine trickled down Josie¡¯s hair, her gaze alert yet sincere, as if her entire heart had shattered


    within.


    ¡°Arnold, you let Rachel steal my life away, and yet you have the audacity to say you like me. You¡¯re


    even more hypocritical than Dexter.¡±


    Every time she thought about how he had deceived her even during the good times they shared, Josie


    felt sick to her stomach.


    Half of Arnold¡¯s face was shrouded in shadow, his expression inscrutable.


    After a long silence, he finally spoke. ¡°Has he ever been pushed to the brink of death for you? When


    we were in Rivodia, I was tortured by Mr. Dalton just to get you out. All of that was sincere.¡±


    ¡°But Rachel had already returned to the Olsen family then! Your n never stopped!¡± Josie looked at


    him disappointedly. ¡°Throughout the entire time, have you ever thought of stopping?¡±


    The moment she thought of this, all the guilt that Josie had been carrying simply vanished into thin air.


    Arnold straightened up slightly, drawing closer to her, who was reeking of alcohol. When his icy cold


    eyes met hers, he said, ¡°There¡¯s no turning back for us now.¡±


    Josie¡¯s body stiffened. ¡°Arnold, you have to let me go.¡±


    He remained silent, rising to his feet to walk past her toward the door. Josie called out to him a few


    times, but he didn¡¯t stop.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie sprang to her feet and ran over, grabbing his arm and shouting, ¡°I know where Edward is! You


    have to let me go!¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Arnold finally stood still. He nced at her, ¡°Dexter would never tell you.¡±


    Josie was taken aback but still asserted, ¡°I overheard him making arrangements. I truly know.¡±


    He scrutinized her. ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°If you want my information, you should offer something of equal value in return. Release Mallory.¡±


    Arnold gazed deeply at her before scoffing lightly. ¡°If I let her go, what would I use to threaten you, Jo?


    That¡¯s not how business is done.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he swiftly grabbed Josie¡¯s hand and pulled her along with him.


    Josie waspelled to move forward.


    Outside, a crowd of people were waiting, all from the private room earlier. Mallory had fainted and was


    lying on the ground, barely breathing.


    Scar stepped forward to report something to Arnold. Taking advantage of the situation, Josie shook off


    his hand and squatted in front of Mallory. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to have dragged you into this.¡±


    Mallory struggled to open her eyes, yet found the strength to reassure Josie, ¡°I¡¯ve spent many years at


    Heaven on Earth. I can handle a little alcohol.¡±


    Josie suddenly felt a pang in her heart, as if she was stabbed by a knife. Right then, she couldn¡¯t think


    of a better solution.


    ¡°Fetch the doctor, we can¡¯t afford to lose a life here,¡± Arnoldmanded, his eyes coldly observing the


    situation.


    Scar responded, ¡°What about¡­ Ms. Warren¡­¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond directly. Instead, he walked over to the woman from earlier, who had already


    sensed something was amiss and was shaking nervously.

 Chapter 924

    Chapter 924


    ¡°M-Mr. Carter¡­ I don¡¯t know if she¡­ she¡­¡±


    ¡°What about her?¡± Arnold asked, a sly smile appearing on his lips. He lifted the woman¡¯s long earring


    with a flirtatious gesture and said, ¡°You¡¯ve done well. You know how to read the room.¡±


    The woman was still trembling. ¡°Mr. Carter, I was wrong. I won¡¯t make decisions unterally anymore.¡±


    ¡°How long have you been at the club?¡±


    ¡°Three¡­ Three years.¡±


    Arnold nodded slightly, then suddenly, he forcefully ripped off the woman¡¯s earring. She let out a


    piercing scream as blood gushed out.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Take her to the seaside.¡±


    Upon giving the decisive order, his subordinates immediately stepped forward, escorting the screaming


    and pleading woman away.


    Blood sttered all over the corridor.


    Josie trembled as she watched everything unfold in disbelief. After a moment, Mallory was also taken


    away. Arnold took a tissue and calmly wiped his fingers, his gaze fixed on Josie.


    ¡°Why are you crying?¡±


    She reached up to touch her face, only to realize she had been crying when she felt the cold and moist


    sensation.


    ¡°My heart once softened at the sight of your tears. I even considered giving up everything to take you


    away.¡± He crouched in front of Josie, wiping away her tears with his fingertips. ¡°But now, your tears no


    longer affect me.¡±


    ¡°You b*stard!¡± Josie roared.


    Arnold effortlessly lifted her around the waist and carried her straight up to the penthouse suite.


    ¡°I don¡¯t expect to hear about my father¡¯s whereabouts from you. Instead, I¡¯m more inclined to take


    action against Dexter.¡±


    Josie was thrown forcefully onto the bed, causing her to bounce. She tried to escape immediately, but


    Arnold firmly held her in ce. As his breath closed in on her, he said, ¡°Dexter is far out at sea. You


    won¡¯t be able to leave tonight.¡±


    Josie looked at him incredulously. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Arnold caught her fidgeting hands, effortlessly removing her jacket. ¡°Do you think Dexter would regret


    taking my father away if he knew about this?¡±


    With that thought in mind, he began tough heartily.


    Josie felt a chill down her spine as if she was in the presence of a demon!


    ¡°Arnold¡­ please, let me go¡­¡± Josie trembled uncontrobly. ¡°I can help you. I can save your father.


    Trust me. Just like you said, Dexter still has feelings for me, so he will let your father go!¡±


    His movements didn¡¯t cease. Hisrge hand moved around her back, resting on the sp of her bra.


    A snap rang out, triggering a tingle in Josie¡¯s scalp.


    ¡°I¡¯m the criminal, not Dexter,¡± he said. ¡°Someone like him would never take a life. I believe Edward will


    suffer a little at most, but he will keep his life. So, I¡¯m actually not worried that he¡¯s in Dexter¡¯s hands.¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, Josie realized what he was thinking, and she felt a wave of utter


    despair.


    They¡¯re all madmen, all of them!


    Just as Arnold was about to remove her bra, his phone, which he had ced to the side, suddenly


    started to vibrate violently, causing him to hesitate and pause in his actions.


    Josie reacted as if it was herst hope of being saved. She decisively grabbed the phone without even


    checking who it was and answered the call immediately.


    ¡°Arnold, did you take Josie?¡±


    It¡¯s Heather¡­ No, it¡¯s Rachel¡¯s voice!


    Compared to her gentle demeanor in person, her voice over the phone sounded harsher.


    Arnold narrowed his eyes, staring at Josie, who clenched her teeth in defiance.


    After a moment, he responded, ¡°Mmm-hmm.¡±


    ¡°Why did you take her?¡± Rachel was very alert.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Afraid you can¡¯t y the role of the daughter of the Olsen family? Why the anxious


    questioning?¡±


    As she listened to their conversation, Josie¡¯s fingertips turned white from gripping the phone too tightly.


    It was hard to imagine that these two people, who seemingly had no interaction in public, could have


    such a close rtionship behind the scenes.

 Chapter 925

    Chapter 925


    Rachel paused for a moment. ¡°The wedding is on the 15th. I don¡¯t want anything to go wrong.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s enthusiasm plummeted as a result of the phone call. He pulled away from Josie, who quickly


    buttoned up her clothes.


    ¡°It¡¯s already the 10th. Instead of preparing for your wedding, you¡¯re here doing this. Do you have that


    much free time?¡±


    Rachel was left speechless, perhaps due to a certain degree of apprehension she felt when facing


    Arnold.


    ¡°I just want to remind you not to let your personal feelings ruin our n.¡±


    As Rachel spoke, Arnold nced at the flustered Josie, who was ring back at him intently.


    He rose and walked to the window. ¡°Before Dexter boarded the ship, did he tell you exactly what he


    nned to do?¡±


    Rachel replied, ¡°No, he doesn¡¯t trust me much. He doesn¡¯t tell me many things. All I know is that he


    boarded the ship to conduct business.¡±


    ¡°Business,¡± Arnold savored the word. ¡°Quite a significant business to discuss in international waters.¡±


    ¡°International waters?¡± Rachel was surprised. ¡°He hasn¡¯t left for international waters. He¡¯s still in


    Wavery. He just called me, saying he¡¯ll return in an hour.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Arnold¡¯s expression changed abruptly. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ he didn¡¯t go out to the open sea.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie pressed her back against the wall and rapidly processed theplexities of the situation as her


    heart pounded.


    After Arnold hung up the phone, he stared at her for a second before scoffing, ¡°Your ex-husband, he¡¯s


    full of tricks.¡±


    With that, he roughly grabbed Josie¡¯s arm and strode out.


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure what was happening. She was taken downstairs, where Arnold had her cleaned up


    and changed into a new set of clothes. Then, she was escorted into a car.


    The vehicle moved along the road for some time before it stopped on the side of the road. Soon, a


    person from another car got in and reported cautiously, ¡°Mr. Carter, the batch of goods we were


    exporting has been intercepted by the police.¡±


    Arnold, who had his eyes closed, abruptly opened them sharply. ¡°Which police force intercepted it?¡±


    ¡°They are from another jurisdiction, not from Wavery.¡±


    Arnold looked at him. ¡°What about Dexter?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ He never actually went out to the open sea. The person who boarded the ship was a stand-in¡­¡±


    His voice trailed off as he spoke, losing confidence. Then, he lowered his head, not daring to look at


    Arnold.


    ¡°He tricked us,¡± Arnold said as he sneered.


    Josie hugged her arms, listening intently to their conversation. She nced at the scenery outside in


    the dark night. There was a mist, and they had arrived at the seaside.


    At the dock, the vehicle stopped, and Arnold closed his eyes to rest. Ten minutester, another car


    arrived.


    The car door swung open, and two people escorted a woman out. She was older but well-maintained.


    Josie frowned as she recognized the struggling face of the woman.


    It was Xanthe.


    ¡°Arnold! What are you doing!¡± Xanthe¡¯s hands were tied behind her back as she hysterically shouted at


    him.


    ¡°Ms. Quorn, I¡¯ve helped you so many times. It¡¯s your turn to help me now,¡± Arnold said coldly.


    Josie clenched her fist, recalling that Justin had discovered Arnold had always been assisting in


    Xanthe¡¯s business. Indeed, there was some connection between those two.


    ¡°What are you up to¡­¡± Xanthe¡¯s hair fluttered in the wind, her well-maintained face faintly showing


    signs of aging.


    ¡°Your son has leverage over me, so naturally, I need to take you, his mother, as my bargaining chip.


    What do you say?¡±


    At this point, Arnold simply stopped pretending.


    Josie spected that the batch of goods that was intercepted must have reached a level of notoriety.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have taken this step.


    ¡°You¡¯re insane! You know how Dexter treats me. He would never give up for my sake!¡± Xanthe was


    very self-aware.

 Chapter 926

    Chapter 926


    ¡°Yes, I am well aware of Dexter¡¯s attitude towards you. But let¡¯s not forget that I helped you when your


    biological son abandoned you and you had nowhere to go. I prevented your son, who was abroad, from


    ending up on the streets,¡± Arnold said with a cold smirk. ¡°Ms. Quorn, you should be grateful and help


    me, shouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    The sea breeze blew relentlessly on Xanthe, who smiled wryly. ¡°Are you using me to threaten Dexter?


    He won¡¯te. You¡¯ve made a mistake.¡±


    As she spoke these words, there was a touch of despair that only a mother could express.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s not necessarily true. What if I end up killing you?¡± Arnold spoke casually, and before


    Xanthe could react, he waved his hand, signaling his men to step forward.


    As a ruthless criminal, he showed no mercy. Xanthe was knocked to the ground. Being no longer


    young, even a slightly forceful blow could be fatal.


    Meanwhile, Josie turned away, unwilling to witness any longer.


    Arnold yed with his lighter before lighting a cigarette and spoke vaguely. ¡°What time is it?¡±


    No one responded for a while, and only then did Josie realize that the question was directed at her.


    She struggled to nce at the time. ¡°Half past two.¡±


    ¡°Dexter¡¯s boat will dock in ten minutes. Keep track of the time.¡±


    This was undoubtedly torture.


    The sounds of fighting outside the car didn¡¯t stop, nor did Xanthe¡¯s agonizing cries of pain. Josie was


    restless, attempting to roll up the car window. Without even lifting his eyes, Arnold was aware and said,


    ¡°Don¡¯t close it.¡±


    All Josie could do was listen.


    She felt a chill throughout her body.


    It would take Dexter more than ten minutes to arrive. Xanthe¡¯s life could be in danger during that time.


    Moreover, there was a good chance that Dexter might note.


    Josie still remembered Xanthe¡¯s indifference towards her son when he was a child. It had left asting


    trauma on him.


    As an innocent child, she would often ask, ¡°Dex, do you miss your mom?¡±


    A hint of vulnerability would sh in Dexter¡¯s eyes, although he always said no.


    Josie knew deep down that he missed her, but there was nothing he could do.


    Later, when they met again, his feelings for his mother had turned into hatred.


    ¡°If you think you can use Xanthe to your advantage, you¡¯re mistaken,¡± Josie, enduring the noise


    outside, tried to reason with him. ¡°Dexter would never give up his interests for her, let alone hand over


    Edward to you.¡±


    Arnold flicked off the ash from his cigarette and scoffed, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. I don¡¯t want Edward. I only


    want him to return my belongings.¡±


    His goal was clear, and it was a fair exchange.


    ¡°He will nevere.¡±


    Arnold remained silent. About ten minutester, a ck car slowly approached, appearing like a ray of


    light in the silent night.


    Arnold curled his lips and looked at Josie. ¡°You still don¡¯t understand him well enough.¡±


    With that, he pushed open the car door and got out.


    Xanthe had been beaten within an inch of her life, her mouth bleeding profusely as shey on the


    ground, looking half-dead.


    The back door of the ck car swung open, and a pair of elegant leather shoes were the first to touch


    the ground. The man, dressed in a ck shirt, rolled up his sleeves as he walked towards Arnold with a


    solemn and dignified posture.


    ¡°Dex¡­¡± Xanthe tried to get up as if she had seen her savior.


    The darkness of the night concealed Dexter¡¯s eyes and brows. He nced at the person on the ground


    and slowly stopped. ¡°Arnold, what are you doing?¡±


    The two men stood at a distance, facing each other. Their aura grew more intense than the darkness of


    the night.


    ¡°Ms. Quorn took something that belongs to me and refuses to return it. I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have to trouble you


    with that.¡±

 Chapter 927

    Chapter 927


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Dexter¡¯s face was grim, and he didn¡¯t bother to look at Xanthe.


    ¡°The thing is gone. It¡¯s more important than money, so I can only make her pay with her life.¡± Arnold


    flicked his cigarette to the ground and stamped it out.


    Dexter understood what he meant. A faint smile appeared on his lips. ¡°That¡¯s good. She¡¯s caused me a


    lot of trouble over the years. Well done, Arnold. Take care of her for me. Make sure there are no traces


    left.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but smile at this statement. It was typical of Dexter.


    Arnold remained calm and revealed his trump card. ¡°Admit it, Dexter. If you didn¡¯t care, you wouldn¡¯t


    have personally shown up at this time.¡±


    After saying that, he nced behind Dexter. There were no bodyguards. Dexter had only brought a


    driver and a secretary.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond. ¡°I just wanted to see how far you would go. For you, getting rid of someone is


    easier than having tea. I wanted to witness it myself.¡±


    He stood still, his hair gently lifted by the sea breeze. There was no pity or concern in his eyes, only


    indifference.


    This made Arnold furrow his brow. He nced sideways. ¡°Regardless, she¡¯s your mother. You are


    rted. Can you really kill your own mother?¡±


    Dexter raised both hands. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Upon seeing this, Xanthe shouted anxiously, ¡°Dex! You can¡¯t abandon me! I¡¯m your mother!¡±


    She was sprawled awkwardly on the ground, stripped of her usual superiority.


    Dexter finally nced at her, his eyes filled with coldness. ¡°When you left, I begged you not to go, just


    like what you¡¯re doing today.¡±


    As he silently gazed at her, Xanthe hesitated, recalling the past. She showed a hint of guilt. ¡°I-I


    desperately wanted to leave the Russell family and didn¡¯t take you with me. Later, I wanted toe


    back for you, but many things happened.¡±


    Her words sounded righteous but were contemptible.


    ¡°You not only wanted to leave the Russell family, but you also wanted to escape from me. As long as I


    exist, you¡¯ll think of my father every day. You despise me, your own flesh and blood.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice was colder than the sea breeze. He paced in ce, calmly stating, ¡°No, that¡¯s not it. You


    hate the son you had with someone else and spoiled him. But why isn¡¯t he here today?¡±


    The crisp sound of shoes stepping on the ground, like a countdown to her life, made Xanthe tremble all


    over.


    She suddenly pushed away the thug beside her and knelt on the ground, crawling toward Dexter. She


    grabbed his pant leg and pleaded, ¡°Dex, it¡¯s my fault, all my fault. Give me a chance to make amends.


    Save me, and I¡¯ll give you whatever you want!¡±


    The words were spoken quickly and urgently. Her voice was even lowered, as if she was afraid of being


    overheard.


    She knew that Arnold would definitely kill her, as he had said.


    Dexter looked down at her condescendingly.


    Tired of this mother-son drama, Arnold asked, ¡°Enough of this. Dexter, are you saving her or not?¡±


    Dexter lifted his eyes indifferently. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Finally, Arnold heard the question he wanted.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°The batch of goods that was intercepted during the exit, I want it back intact.¡±


    The sound of waves crashing against rocks echoed in Dexter¡¯s ears. With little force, he kicked Xanthe


    away and turned to the side. ¡°Arnold, that batch of goods was intercepted by the police in another area.


    Even if I have extraordinary abilities, I can¡¯t make them give it back.¡±


    He sounded reasonable.

 Chapter 928

    Chapter 928


    However, Arnold sneered, ¡°I don¡¯t care how it was taken. If you want to save Xanthe, you must retrieve


    that shipment for me.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    It appeared that the shipment was of utmost importance.


    As Josie listened, she also pondered. The vehicle was now locked, and the windows were


    soundproofed. Even if she spoke, Dexter wouldn¡¯t be able to hear her. She thoroughly examined


    everything inside the car, searching for a weak spot.


    ¡°Arnold, you¡¯ve misunderstood,¡± Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°I didn¡¯t report it.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s patience was wearing thin. ¡°You¡¯ve reported me many times, even if not this time.¡±


    Dexter fell silent for a moment. ¡°At most, I can sever the leads they can follow. But I can¡¯t retrieve that


    shipment.¡±


    It was something that would harm both him and others. If he were taken to court, he would face a death


    sentence. Even with Dexter¡¯s extraordinary abilities, he couldn¡¯tpel the police to return it.


    Josie¡¯s hands were handcuffed in the back seat as she struggled to lean forward, searching for


    communication tools but to no avail. Disheartened, she identally touched the car¡¯s built-in


    navigation, and the screen lit up.


    Her eyes brightened. The advantage of a luxury car was evident here¡ªthe navigation system was top-


    notch.


    She nced around and found the dialing function.


    Arnold squinted. ¡°It seems you still consider me a friend by doing this.¡±


    Dexter understood and gestured to Larry, who handed over a phone.


    He dialed a number in front of Arnold. Stepping to the side, he spoke a few words before ending the


    call.


    He spread his hands. ¡°Arnold, this matter won¡¯t be traced back to you.¡±


    Having achieved his goal, Arnold let out a slight sigh of relief, yet remained vignt. He reached out,


    and his bodyguard handed him a pack of cigarettes. Taking out two, he approached Dexter.


    Seeing the situation, Moses immediately stepped in.


    Arnold pushed him aside and said, ¡°When I met your boss, you weren¡¯t even around yet.¡±


    Moses took a few steps back.


    ¡°Dexter.¡± A ck cigarette was offered. ¡°I¡¯ll be there to toast your wedding on the fifteenth.¡±


    Dexter took the cigarette, his lips slightly curved. ¡°I thought with the performance today, you wanted


    something more intriguing from me.¡±


    Understanding his meaning, Arnoldughed. ¡°I know my limits when ites to challenging you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes blended with the darkness of the night, revealing nothing of his thoughts. His gaze fell


    upon Arnold¡¯s car.


    At that moment, a loud noise erupted from inside the car. The bodyguard cried out in rm. Arnold was


    just about to react when a ck bullet whizzed past his ear.


    His pupils dted.


    The two men locked eyes before simultaneously taking action.


    Dexter¡¯s slender fingers pressed against Arnold¡¯s shoulder. Arnold, not to be outdone, swiftly moved


    away with his long legs. He pulled out a ck gun from his lower back and quickly loaded it. ¡°Damn it,


    Dexter! Did you bring the police?¡±


    Around the harbor, an unknown number of inclothes officers were lurking. Arnold¡¯s henchmen, each


    armed with a gun, were vigntly scanning their surroundings.


    He red at Dexter with intense hatred. No wonder he came alone! It turns out he had this in mind.


    Dexter stood at a distance, his brow furrowed. He surveyed the surroundings and angrily questioned in


    a low voice, ¡°Who informed the police?¡±


    Moses and Andy exchanged nces. ¡°It wasn¡¯t us!¡±


    The arrival of the police startled Arnold. He took a step back, pointing the gun at Dexter. At that


    moment, another figure with a gun emerged, moving professionally. ¡°Arnold Carter, it¡¯s not toote to


    drop the gun now!¡±


    A face appeared in the light, and surprisingly, it was Scott!

 Chapter 929

    Chapter 929


    ¡°Let me repeat, you¡¯ve been surrounded by us!¡±


    This statement clearly infuriated Arnold. He sneered and fired several shots directly at Scott. ¡°Dream


    on!¡±


    Gunfire erupted, and Moses immediately pulled Xanthe into a corner.


    Scott hid behind a building. ¡°If you fire more shots, once we catch you, there will be no chance for you


    to repent!¡±


    As these words fell, Arnold nced at a ck car emitting smoke. His expression fell into aplex


    dilemma. He quickly retreated. There was a boat docked by the seaside, ready for a quick escape.


    There shouldn¡¯t be any police waiting in the sea as the number of officers present was far from enough


    to apprehend him.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Arnold shouted loudly at the ck figure. ¡°I will surely take revenge for what happened today!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he shot at the ck car under the cover of his henchmen. Bang, bang,


    bang!


    The ck car emitted even more smoke, and screams of a woman could be heard from inside.


    The sound was too familiar, catching Dexter and Scott¡¯s attention. The former¡¯s face changed


    drastically, and he approached the car quickly.


    ¡°This car has been locked, and a timed bomb is installed inside. If you can¡¯t save her, she will


    undoubtedly die!¡±


    Arnold had already boarded the boat. Leaning against an obstacle, he said, ¡°You have to suffer like


    me.¡±


    The boat quickly started, and bullets hitting it couldn¡¯t cause any harm.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    A beam of light swept across his face, tainted with traces of blood. He revealed a smile, deste yet


    fierce.


    Trapped inside the car, Josie was frantically pounding on the window. She had just finished a phone


    call when the vehicle suddenly sounded an rm. Then, she discovered a ticking time bomb hidden


    under her seat, counting down rapidly.


    Suddenly, gunfire erupted outside, bringing harm to the car. Josie understood that she couldn¡¯t just sit


    and wait to die. She had to seek help.


    ¡°Help! Help!¡± Josie choked on the smoke.


    The bomb had a countdown of ten minutes, and time was ticking away.


    Suddenly, a figure appeared outside. He somehow found an iron rod and began to smash the driver¡¯s


    side window. Then came a familiar voice, ¡°Josie!¡±


    Dexter!


    Josie looked up and saw the man¡¯s rapidly paling face. There were veins bulging on his neck. He


    reached out to her. ¡°Come over! I¡¯ll take you out!¡±


    Josie was trapped in the back seat. In despair, she raised her hand. ¡°I¡¯m locked in. I can¡¯t get out.¡±


    ¡°Move back!¡± Dexter roared, immediately stepping back and using the iron rod to smash the rear


    window.


    As the loud bangs echoed from outside, Josie cried out, ¡°Dexter! There¡¯s a bomb in the car! It¡¯s too


    late!¡±


    The smashing of the car didn¡¯t stop.


    Scott arrived quickly, looking anxious. ¡°We¡¯ve called in bomb disposal experts from the city! It¡¯ll take at


    least twenty minutes!¡±


    Josie shouted loudly, ¡°The bomb will detonate in eight minutes!¡±


    ¡°Stay calm, you¡¯re safe with us!¡± Scott reassured loudly.


    Josie couldn¡¯t calm down. She cried even harder, ¡°Sergeant Buncho, I won¡¯t die here, will I? If I have to


    die, I don¡¯t want to die a horrible death.¡±


    In her heart, she cursed Arnold repeatedly.


    Just then, there was a loud bang. Dexter had smashed the car window, his expression grim. ¡°What¡¯s all


    this talk about dying? We¡¯re not going to die!¡±


    After saying that, he braced himself against the shattered window and leaped inside. He didn¡¯t forget to


    tell Scott, ¡°Her hands are cuffed. Go find scissors, quickly!¡±

 Chapter 930

    Chapter 930


    Scott immediately issued orders, leaning against the car window and saying, ¡°You can¡¯t go in. There¡¯s a


    gasoline leak in the car. It might explode before the bomb does!¡±


    Dexter knelt in front of Josie, ignoring everything else, and focused solely on checking the timer on the


    bomb beneath them.


    Josie froze, seeing his hands covered in blood from the shattered window ss.


    The man appearedpletely indifferent, furrowing his brow at the bomb. Several wires of different


    colors were intertwined. Cutting the right one might prevent the bomb from exploding.


    Josie trembled. ¡°Dexter, stop looking. Just leave. It doesn¡¯t matter if I die. You are the backbone of the


    Russell Group. It can¡¯t afford to lose you!¡±


    Her words were jumbled but surprisingly insightful. She dared not move.


    Dexter finally nced at her with a hint of helplessness. ¡°If I leave, you¡¯ll be entangled with Arnold


    again.¡±


    Josie was on the verge of tears. ¡°It¡¯s really not my fault. He kidnapped me, and there¡¯s also Mallory.


    What can I do?¡±


    The police quickly found scissors and handed them over. Dexter swiftly took them. At this point, there


    were only four minutes left until the bomb exploded.


    The handcuffs were specially made, and ordinary scissors couldn¡¯t cut them. Dexter clenched the tool.


    Suddenly, he looked at the woman whose lips had turned pale with fear.


    ¡°I want to give it a try.¡±


    Josie was stunned but quickly understood what he meant.


    Outside, Scott was already in a panic. ¡°What? Trying will cause it to explode! Both of you will die if that


    happens!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he yelled at his colleagues, ¡°Where are the experts? Hurry up!¡±


    Dexter was half-kneeling. There was a thinyer of sweat on his forehead, but he remained calm.


    ¡°There¡¯s no time left. We only have three and a half minutes.¡±


    ¡°There are only three wires here¡ªred, blue, and white. The odds of finding the one to disarm the


    device are not bad, so I want to give it a try.¡±


    Scott took a sharp breath, knowing there was no other way.


    Josie dared not breathe. She slowly nodded, ¡°I-I guess I can only trust you now.¡±


    He slightly bent over, hands reaching in. His voice was barely audible. ¡°When I was studying abroad,


    Old Mr. Russell didn¡¯t give me living expenses to toughen me up. Guess what I did?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice had a calming effect. Josie tried to calm down. ¡°What did you do?¡±


    ¡°I used the money I had saved over the years as the entrance fee to thergest local casino. I won a


    year¡¯s worth of living expenses by cheating.¡±


    Josie found that amusing. This was Dexter¡¯s style.


    ¡°When I was leaving, they found out. To punish me, they strapped me to a chair with a bomb and made


    me find the wire to disarm it. If I seeded, they would let me go.¡±


    The thrill was in the excitement.


    ¡°There were ten wires at that time.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I seeded. Otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t have met me today.¡± Dexter smiled, his eyes filled


    with reassurance.


    Josie wiped away her tears, breaking intoughter. What a madman.


    Dexter ced the scissors on one of the wires but didn¡¯t cut it. ¡°Even if it fails, it doesn¡¯t matter. I¡¯ll


    apany you in death.¡±


    He didn¡¯t leave himself an escape route. Once the bomb detonated, both of them would die, leaving no


    survivors.


    Josie looked into his eyes, feeling a mix of bitterness and sweetness. These minutes could very well be


    thest minutes they lived.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Dexter,¡± she slowly said, ¡°from childhood to now, my world has always been pure and white. It¡¯s


    meeting you that made my life chaotic. I¡¯ve always listened to you. This time, can you listen to me?¡±


    Tears slowly welled up in her eyes, blurring her vision.


    ¡°Choose the white wire.¡±

 Chapter 931

    Chapter 931


    Dexter¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bobbed as he gazed at her.


    She firmly reiterated, ¡°I want to restore my pure, unblemished self. I choose white, Dexter.¡±


    Their eyes met, with life and death hanging in the bnce of a single moment.


    ¡°You¡¯re willing to die with me, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    As he slowly nodded, Josie closed her eyes in peace.


    With only one minute left, Dexter moved the scissors from the red line to the white line. If one were to


    observe closely, they could see that Dexter¡¯s blood-covered hand was trembling slightly.


    When he applied some force, the white line snapped. Without any hesitation, he tossed the scissors


    aside, stood up, and embraced Josie, shielding her beneath him.


    Josie held her breath, closing her eyes as she awaited the impending explosion.


    Scott also immediately dove away to avoid the st.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds¡­


    The anticipated thunderous sound never came.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon hearing Dexter¡¯s thumping heartbeat, Josie slowly opened her eyes from within his arms. ¡°We¡¯re


    not dead¡­¡±


    Dexter realized it before she did. He held her even tighter, panting heavily in her ear.


    ¡°I¡¯m insane to have yed this deadly game with you.¡±


    Josie shut her eyes tightly, clutching Dexter¡¯s waist. She couldn¡¯t hold back her tears any longer now


    that all the pressure was gone.


    Outside, chaos ensued.


    Exhausted, Dexter sat down next to her, holding her hand with no intention of letting go.


    Once again, Scott stepped forward. Seeing that they were unharmed, he finally breathed a sigh of


    relief. He said to Dexter, ¡°I must rmend you to the bomb disposal team.¡±


    Dexter opened his eyes, a slight smirk appearing on his lips. ¡°It wasn¡¯t my choice. It was hers.¡±


    After crying her heart out, Josie trembled slightly. When she made eye contact with him, her cheeks


    unexpectedly burned.


    After a while, the bomb disposal experts arrived. Their equipment was highly professional, and they


    easily removed Josie¡¯s handcuffs, allowing her to exit the car.


    Given the severity of the incident, everyone present was taken to the police station to provide their


    statements.


    Scott handed Josie a cup of hot water. ¡°Fortunately, I had someone keeping an eye on Arnold all along.


    That¡¯s how I found out you were kidnapped. I sensed something was off and immediately gathered a


    group to follow.¡±


    Only then did Josie remember she hadn¡¯t yet thanked them.


    She expressed her gratitude, then asked, ¡°Do you know about Xanthe¡¯s situation?¡±


    ¡°It was only when we arrived that we learned about it. Initially, we didn¡¯t dare to act for fear of causing


    rm, but you were already in trouble, so we had to intervene.¡±


    Josie thought of Arnold and sighed. ¡°What should we do next?¡±


    ¡°Our people are doing everything they can to find Arnold. Once we locate him, we¡¯ll make him suffer.¡±


    However, Josie didn¡¯t believe it would be that simple. Arnold was as cunning as a fox, capable of


    surviving against all odds.


    Scott understood what she meant. ¡°At the very least, his businesses in Wavery are now finished.¡±


    She watched as he built a towering empire, entertained morous guests, and ultimately fell from


    grace.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but sigh as she reflected on the various experiences of the past few years.


    ¡°By the way, what about my father? Have you found any trace of him?¡±


    When asked, Scott showed some hesitation. ¡°Well¡­ we need to find Arnold before we can determine


    our next steps.¡±


    Josie fell into silence.


    Scott sighed, patting her shoulder. ¡°Dexter is tending to his wounds. Do you want to check on him?¡±


    The look he gave her carried a sense of ambiguity.


    Josie was briefly stunned. Now that the life-and-death bond they had shared not long ago had cooled


    down, all that remained between the two of them was estrangement.


    Seeing her hesitation, Scott said, ¡°You should at least thank him. He was genuinely prepared to risk his


    life for you earlier.¡±


    His actions were indeed beyond her expectations.

 Chapter 932

    Chapter 932


    He had expressed his willingness to die with her.


    He desired nothing more than to apany her in death.


    The intense warmth of their embrace left Josie in a daze. After a moment, she nodded and followed


    Scott.


    Dexter was having his hand injury treated by a doctor, while Larry was updating him on the situation


    outside.


    ¡°The police have seized Arnold¡¯s properties. When the Olsen family found out, Summer was confined


    to home, as Mark was trying to suppress news of the matter as much as possible.¡±


    The Olsen family was preparing for a grand event and could not afford any mistakes.


    As Dexter listened, he furrowed his brow without lifting his gaze.


    ¡°Liana knows you¡¯re here and she¡¯s quite worried. She insists oning to see you,¡± Larry said


    cautiously.


    ¡°Arnold couldn¡¯t have known so quickly that I hadn¡¯t headed out to sea. Someone must have tipped him


    off,¡± Dexter quickly deduced.


    Larry was surprised. ¡°Only insiders were involved this time. There shouldn¡¯t be any leaks.¡±


    However, Dexter remained silent, making it difficult to discern his thoughts. After a moment, he lifted his


    gaze and saw the silhouette of a woman at the door. His eyes gradually focused on her.


    Josie stood there, looking pitiful with her entire body trembling from the trauma. Seemingly helpless,


    she hid behind Scott.


    Dexter¡¯s pupils contracted at the sight.


    Scott stepped forward. ¡°Are you okay? Is it serious?¡±


    The doctor responded, ¡°There¡¯s no damage to the bones or muscles. All the wounds are superficial.¡±


    Without Scott shielding her, Josie waspletely exposed to Dexter¡¯s gaze. She felt a bit


    ufortable as she approached him. ¡°Thank you for today.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was rather intense. He stared at her for a while before finally asking, ¡°What happened to


    your neck?¡±


    Josie lowered her head, only to discover a red mark. It was a bit painful to touch, likely a result of her


    struggle with Arnold in Sky Pce.


    In addition, she still reeked of alcohol and looked visibly disheveled.


    After the doctor finished treating Dexter¡¯s hand, he gestured at Josie, indicating that it was her turn,


    which made the situation somewhat awkward.


    Scott also noticed and took the initiative to defuse the situation. ¡°Mr. Russell, I now know that it was you


    who helped with my job transfer. Otherwise, it would have taken a long time for me to return to the


    Criminal Investigation Division.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie furrowed her brows. Dexter was the one who had Scott transferred back?


    He¡­


    Dexter didn¡¯t seem to care much about it as he subconsciously tapped the table with his bandaged


    fingers. ¡°That¡¯s the least I can do for a good cop like you.¡±


    Scott chuckled. ¡°One of these days, I¡¯ll treat you to a meal. But don¡¯t expect a grand feast, as I can only


    afford something simple with my sry. I hope you won¡¯t turn me down then.¡±


    Before the day¡¯s incident, Scott always thought Dexter was shrewd in business, constantly disrupting


    markets, although not always honorably.


    However, Dexter¡¯s actions that day had changed Scott¡¯s perspective.


    Dexter didn¡¯t mind. He shed a grin and said, ¡°Of course.¡±


    By the time everything was over, dawn had broken. The morning sunlight illuminated the ground.


    Moses, along with a group of people, was waiting outside the police station with a four-leaf clover in his


    hand.


    Josie followed Dexter out, the two of them silent. Yet it was an incredibly pleasing sight to Moses and


    the others.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Josie,¡± Moses said with a smile, ¡°Entering the police station is bad luck. We need to use


    this four-leaf clover to ward off the bad vibes.¡±


    Dexter frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t believe in any of this.¡±


    Moses insisted, ¡°It really works.¡± As he spoke, he began to pat Dexter¡¯s body all over with the four-leaf


    clover. His actions were quiteical, and Josie couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter at his serious


    expression.


    ¡°Josie, you too.¡± Moses stepped forward, causing Josie¡¯s smile to freeze.


    Dexter curled his lips into a smirk, casting her a leisurely nce.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    At that moment, after finishing a phone call, Larry stepped forward and whispered, ¡°Mr. Olsen has


    invited you over.¡±

 Chapter 933

    Chapter 933


    Dexter nced to the side and noticed Josie walking towards the road to hail a taxi.


    He signaled to Moses, who nodded in understanding. Holding the car keys, he followed Josie. ¡°Ms. Jo,


    let me give you a ride.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t look back. ¡°No need, I can manage on my own.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not about whether you can manage. With Arnold gone, his people will surely still be watching you.


    You can¡¯t let your guard down,¡± Moses exined.


    Josie finally stopped, her mind still haunted by the events of the previous night. She couldn¡¯t risk it any


    further. After a moment of hesitation, she provided an address.


    Moses nodded and went to drive the car.


    In Josie¡¯s peripheral vision, a ck car passed by, with Dexter inside. He seemed to be heading to the


    Olsen family to apologize.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    At the Olsen Residence, the scene was chaotic. Broken pieces of porcin littered the floor. When


    Dexter arrived, he took off his coat and handed it to the servant. Heather, who was curled up on the


    sofa, immediately stood up upon seeing him. ¡°Dex!¡±


    Her face was filled with anxiety and fear as she hugged Dexter¡¯s arm. ¡°Arnold is in trouble. Apparently,


    he went missing after setting off an explosion by the sea. Father is very angry¡­¡±


    She observed Dexter¡¯s expression while speaking. ¡°Where were you¡­ your hand!¡±


    She covered her mouth. ¡°What happened to your hand?¡±


    Dexter calmly retracted his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just a minor skin injury, nothing serious.¡±


    He walked straight ahead, reaching the study where Laura was justing out. She nced at Dexter


    and Heather, looking puzzled. ¡°The news about Arnold is known within the circle, and it has affected


    the Olsen family to some extent. Father¡¯s anger hasn¡¯t subsided. He doesn¡¯t want to meet anyone.¡±


    Dexter approached and tapped the door three times with his knuckles. ¡°Mr. Olsen, it¡¯s me.¡±


    There was no sound from inside, and Heather grew anxious.


    After a moment, the weary voice of Mark came through. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Dexter then entered the study.


    In the spacious study, Mark sat at the main seat, gazing at the deste autumn scenery outside the


    windows. His face showed signs of fatigue.


    Dexter stood still, hands behind his back. ¡°Mr. Olsen.¡±


    Mark slowly raised his eyes, scrutinizing him. Without warning, he lifted his cane and threw it forcefully,


    hitting the young man¡¯s kneecap. The sound of the impact was sharp and painful to hear.


    Dexter didn¡¯t even flinch. He endured it.


    ¡°If hitting me can relieve your anger, feel free to do so.¡±


    His distinct facial features were devoid of expression. It was more indifferent than arrogant.


    Mark snorted. ¡°Pick it up.¡±


    Bending down, Dexter picked up the cane and handed it to Mark. As Mark took it, hisrge hand


    pressed on Dexter¡¯s bandaged hand, exerting force.


    Dexter frowned slightly but remained still.


    ¡°Arnold¡¯s n was meticulous. The goods fromst night could have smoothly left the country. Why did


    the police from another jurisdiction discover it?¡±


    Mark asked this while closely observing Dexter¡¯s expression.


    ¡°If he got caught, it means the n wasn¡¯t meticulous enough.¡±


    ¡°Was it not meticulous enough, or is someone ying tricks?¡± Mark increased the pressure, reopening


    the wounds in Dexter¡¯s palm one by one. ¡°Why were you at the seasidest night?¡±


    ¡°Arnold threatened me with my mother and forced me to solve the problem for him.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Unexpectedly, the police in Wavery had already targeted him.¡±


    Mark closed his eyes for a moment. ¡°Last night, you were supposed to be in international waters. Why


    did you immediately go when Arnold asked you to?¡±


    He probably had a rough idea of the cause of the situation and was merely seeking an exnation.

 Chapter 934

    Dexter maintained his bowed posture, his expression calm. ¡°Mr. Olsen, do you suspect that I deliberately orchestrated this?¡±


    ¡°Arnold set a bomb in the car, and you almost lost your life. It doesn¡¯t seem intentional. However, Dexter, the purpose is too obvious. You acted too hastily!¡± Mark didn¡¯t release his grip on Dexter¡¯s hand. ¡°I think the cooperation between the Russell family and the Olsen family should be dyed. Let¡¯s wait until you learn to be patient.¡±


    Heather had been waiting outside for a long time without hearing a sound. Anxiously, she knocked on the door. ¡°Father, please don¡¯t make things difficult for Dex!¡±


    Dexter rxed his brows, unbothered. ¡°What did the police say about this?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you juste out of the police station with that woman?¡± Mark stared at him.Dexter remainedposed. ¡°You suspect that I confronted Arnold for Josie¡¯s sake.¡±


    ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for that woman, why would you go? Xanthe was just a smokescreen.¡±


    Dexter forcefully pulled his hand away. The wounds reopened, and the blood stained the bandage. He didn¡¯t mind and stood upright.


    ¡°You misunderstand. I did something to stopthe goods from leaving the country, but I didn¡¯t order Arnold to kidnap anyone. If he hadn¡¯t pulled this stunt, he might havee out unscathed. me him, not me.¡±


    Mark stared at Dexter¡¯s calm expression, sensing a hint of helplessness.


    Dexter¡¯s scheming ran deep, as if everything were under his control. He couldn¡¯t tell if the incidents were intentional or coincidental.


    ¡°He caused such trouble for the Olsen family. Even if he stayed, he would¡¯ve messed things up. What do you think?¡±


    Dexter went behind Mark to massage his shoulders. ¡°With the investigation into the Carter Group and Arnold¡¯s disappearance, you don¡¯t have to worry about filling the void. It¡¯s a win-win situation.¡±


    Mark¡¯s frustration hadn¡¯t subsided. ¡°Summer.¡±


    Dexter interrupted, ¡°Summer is not biologically rted to the Olsen family. As long as she quits drugs, it won¡¯t have much impact on the Olsen family.¡±


    He spoke as if discussing the weather, without emotional fluctuations.


    Mark turned slowly. ¡°You knew.¡±


    Dexter smirked. ¡°I know everything you know.¡±


    As they remained silent for a long while, Heather continued knocking on the door. ¡°Dex! Father!¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Mark softened his tense expression. He sighed and took a paper to wipe the blood from the cane.


    ¡°Leanne is a good girl. She isn¡¯t as scheming as Summer or that woman. Think it over. Don¡¯t cause trouble after getting married.¡±


    Dexter remained unfazed. In his mind, he saw Josie¡¯s pale face on the brink of death. She was telling him, ¡°Let¡¯s die together.¡±


    She sounded so resolute.


    ¡°Yes, I know my limits.¡±


    Only then did Mark feel a bit relieved. He looked toward the door. ¡°Gofort Leanne. She was terrifiedst night when she found out you were on the scene.¡±


    Just as the young man approached the door, Mark suddenly called out, ¡°Dexter.¡±


    Dexter stood still, waiting for his next words.


    ¡°From a young age, I could tell you were extraordinary,¡± he said, his gaze warm and lingering. ¡°After all these years, I never thought you would actually win. Now that you have, don¡¯t let me down.¡±


    These words served as a different form of affirmation.Dexter unlocked the door and stepped out. When Heather saw him, she rushed into his arms. ¡°Are you okay? Did father make things difficult for you?¡±


    The woman was petite, wearing her usual white dress. Dexter used to find her stunning, but having seen Josie in the same dress, he now thought of Heather as ordinary.


    In his mind, there was only the figure of that woman, standing in the rain, looking vivid yet lonely.

 Chapter 935

    Chapter 935


    Pushing Heather away, he said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Laura stepped forward and asked, ¡°Father, are you no longer angry?¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°With Arnold¡¯s incident, the Olsen family will surely be affected. I hope you¡¯ll be more


    cautious in theing days. Mr. Olsen¡­ is getting old.¡±


    Laura understood. ¡°I¡¯ve pretty much mastered managing the family business now, so there¡¯s no need to


    worry.¡±


    As they conversed, they failed to notice Heather, who stood to the side, her fingers subconsciously


    clenched, her expression conflicted.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Dexter asked.


    Heather snapped back to reality. ¡°I was just wondering if our wedding will be affected since something


    happened to Arnold.¡±


    Laura shot a sideway nce.


    Dexter replied, ¡°You seem to not care about how your sister is doing at all.¡±


    Hisment stunned Heather. ¡°It¡¯s not like that. My mother is with Sum now. Since she¡¯s emotionally


    unstable, I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll be even more agitated if she sees me¡­ so¡­¡±


    She was flustered, but Dexter merely smiled. ¡°I¡¯m just saying. The wedding will proceed as nned.


    The next few days will be tough on you.¡±


    Heather shook her head joyfully, then asked, ¡°When should we get our marriage license? I noticed that


    everyone else gets theirs before the wedding.¡±


    Dexter replied indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll be quite busy recently, so let¡¯s wait until I¡¯m free.¡±


    He didn¡¯t mention a specific day.


    Heather¡¯s bright smile stiffened.


    Dexter left Olsen Residence and got into the car. Larry had been waiting for a long time. Upon seeing


    the blood-stained gauze in Dexter¡¯s hand, he eximed, ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re injured again.¡±


    Dexter dropped his gaze to his bloody hand. ¡°It¡¯s not a big issue.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s medicine in the car. Let me find it.¡±


    Dexter interrupted, ¡°Put that aside, and let¡¯s talk business.¡±


    Larry had no choice but to stop what he was doing and reported, ¡°Arnold received a callst night. Only


    then did he find out that you hadn¡¯t gone out to the open sea.¡±


    ¡°Who called him?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t trace the caller. It was well concealed. However, the number is registered in Wavery.¡±


    Larry expressed his confusion, ¡°It doesn¡¯t make sense, though. Only a handful of people know your


    whereabouts, and all of them are our people. We¡¯ve checked everyone, and they didn¡¯t leak any


    information.¡±


    Dexter slowly exhaled, his expression unreadable, as if recalling something.


    At that moment, in the Mason Garden.


    ¡°Moses! I asked you to take me home, not bring me back here!¡±


    In the living room, Josie was beside herself with frustration. Bodyguards stopped her from leaving.


    Moses was outside, not daring to raise his head. ¡°Josie, my hands are tied. This is hismand.¡±


    It went without saying who he was referring to.


    Josie¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°This is kidnapping and false imprisonment! I can call the police!¡±


    Moses couldn¡¯t take it any longer. Just then, a car stopped in the courtyard. His eyes sparkled as if he


    had seen a savior. ¡°Mr. Russell is back! You can talk to him, Josie!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he ran off. Dexter got out of the car and saw Moses slip behind him. ¡°What¡¯s


    up?¡±


    Moses jerked his head toward the house. ¡°I can¡¯t control the situation anymore.¡±


    Ever since his divorce, Dexter no longer resided in Mason Garden. However, with someone constantly


    cleaning the ce, it remained serene and peaceful.


    He stepped into the familiar house and saw Josie standing in the doorway, tense as a drawn bow and


    silent as a stone.


    She watched him enter and asked, ¡°Why did you bring me here instead of spending time building a life


    together with your fianc¨¦e?¡±


    Dexter removed his coat, his expression calm and unruffled. ¡°At least you won¡¯t get kidnapped to a


    ce with a ticking time bomb by staying here.¡±


    Josie chuckled. ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you¡¯re actually looking out for me?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond.


    Exasperated, Josie wished she could tear off his calm facade. The touching feeling she felt yesterday


    hadpletely vanished.


    ¡°If you dare to leave me here, I¡¯ll immediately expose your cheating behavior to the media.¡±

 Chapter 936

    Chapter 936


    Dexter met her gaze directly. ¡°Have I done anything to you?¡±


    She was taken aback by his question.


    It seems like he hasn¡¯t done anything to me. There hasn¡¯t even been any physical contact.


    ¡°It seems you¡¯ve forgotten that Mason Garden is listed under your name in the divorce agreement,¡±


    Dexter leaned in, whispering in her ear.


    Josie remembered theirst meeting before their divorce was at Mason Garden. She had found the


    divorce agreement he had signed, along with a few additional uses he had added besides the typical


    content.


    He had been quite generous.


    However, Josie didn¡¯t appreciate his generosity and never returned to the house. She never touched


    the money or the property he had given her.


    Even if the media caught them, Dexter could stille up with an excuse to absolve himself of


    responsibility.


    Josie finally realized his scheme and red fiercely at the man. ¡°What on earth are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°Stay here.¡±


    Dexter moved past her and sat on the couch, retrieving a first aid kit from under the table.


    Josie looked over her shoulder at him, suddenly asking, ¡°Is the wedding still on the fifteenth?¡±


    The man¡¯s movement didn¡¯t cease and appeared smooth and natural under the dim lighting, making his


    expression even more inscrutable.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie took a deep breath and repeated her question once more.


    He finally raised his head, holding a bottle of iodine in one hand. ¡°Apply this for me,¡± he demanded.


    Josie furrowed her brows, only then noticing that the bandage wrapped around his palm was seeping


    with blood. It looks serious. Did he not get the wound properly dressed at the police station?


    Seeing that she didn¡¯t move, Dexter questioned, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you take responsibility for the injury you


    sustained while trying to save you?¡±


    This is moral maniption!


    Josie fumed with anger as she stepped forward and impatiently unwrapped the bandage. As expected,


    the wound had torn again, and blood was pooling in his palm.


    She paused and instinctively dabbed more gently with the cotton swab.


    ¡°Arnold has fled. Do you think Mark will let you off easily?¡±


    Dexter remained silent, leaning against the couch, his eyes half-open, staring at her soft ck hair. Her


    side profile looked slightly puffed. A picture that depicted vibrancy and stubbornness.


    Josie turned around, meeting his gaze. It felt as if something had gripped her heart.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me?¡± Dexter asked.


    ¡°Were you with Arnold all night yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Kind of. We didn¡¯t separate for even a moment since he kidnapped me.¡±


    ¡°Has there been any suspicious person around during that time?¡±


    The question was odd. Josie pursed her lips in thought before responding, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°What about suspicious phone calls?¡±


    That question hit the nail on the head. Josie¡¯s brows furrowed tightly as she recalled a memory.


    Heather¡­ No, Rachel calledst night. That was the only call yesterday.


    She lowered her head. ¡°Why are you asking this?¡±


    ¡°Was there a call or not?¡± Dexter asked in a deep voice.


    ¡°There was, but I don¡¯t know who the caller was.¡± Josie lied without changing her expression. ¡°He


    avoided me when he took the call.¡±


    Dexter stared at her silently. After a while, he lifted her chin with his other hand, forcing her to look at


    him. ¡°Look at me and repeat what you just said.¡±


    His eyes were unfathomably deep to the extent that Josie could see her own reflection in them. Feeling


    guilty, she pushed his hand away. ¡°I told you I don¡¯t know. Are you deaf or something?¡±


    For some reason, Josie didn¡¯t want to reveal Heather¡¯s identity to Dexter so soon because she didn¡¯t


    know what choices he would make once he learned that information and didn¡¯t dare to confront that


    uncertainty.


    After tending to his wound, Josie stood up and asked, ¡°May I leave now, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll stay here and not be allowed anywhere before the fifteenth.¡±


    His single decisive statement left Josie frozen in ce. Then, with a hint of disbelief, she whispered,


    ¡°Dexter, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re scared that I¡¯ll disrupt your wedding.¡±

 Chapter 937

    Chapter 937


    His eyes were dark and sharp, like a de. ¡°You¡¯ve done things like this more than a few times.¡±


    Josie was speechless. What she did on the day of Heather¡¯s art exhibition was indeed unexpected.


    ¡°I¡¯m not that petty. Marry whoever you want. What does it matter to me?¡± Her voice was soft, filled with


    discontent.


    Upon hearing this, Dexter felt an inexplicable tightness in his chest. In the past, she would have


    definitely made a big fuss about it, but now it seemed like she cared less and less.


    ¡°Then stay here.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°Does that mean once the fifteenth is over, you¡¯ll let me go, and I can go wherever I


    want?¡±


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    A hint of subtle panic shed in Dexter¡¯s eyes, but it quickly vanished. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What about going abroad?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡± he blurted out.


    Josieughed. She approached again, kneeling on the sofa, leaning in close to him. ¡°Why did you


    panic?¡±


    Dexter turned away from her.


    ¡°Actually, you might be a little reluctant to let me go, right?¡± Josie teased, cradling his cheek in her


    palm. ¡°But you¡¯re getting married. Are you going to keep me as your mistress in the future, Mr. Russell?


    I won¡¯t agree.¡±


    For some reason, Josie always felt that, despite Dexter¡¯s seemingly ruthless demeanor, there was a bit


    of tenderness deep down for her.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have risked his life to save herst night.


    ¡°Grandpa gave you assets, right?¡± he suddenly asked.


    Josie responded with a hum.


    ¡°With those resources in your hands, I naturally can¡¯t let you leave the country.¡±


    It was an exnation, ruthless and cold. The slight hope in Josie¡¯s heart vanished. Her eyes stung.


    ¡°So, I misunderstood.¡±


    Her sudden self-deprecating expression made a part of Dexter¡¯s heart sink. He furrowed his brow and


    instinctively reached out for her, but Josie had turned around. He only managed to grab a strand of her


    hair.


    ¡°So I¡¯m just staying here, right? Sure, as an ex-wife, it¡¯s only right to help out my ex-husband.¡± Josie


    smiled, her tone yful. ¡°But I have one condition.¡±


    Caught off guard by her smile, Dexter remained silent. ¡°What condition?¡±


    ¡°I still need to draw. Ask Moses to deliver myputer from my ce.¡±


    It was a simple condition that wouldn¡¯t require much effort to fulfill.


    However, Dexter squinted. ¡°There areputers here at Mason Garden.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s different. I only use my own.¡±


    Dexter signaled for Moses toe in. Josie emphasized, ¡°It¡¯s ck, the one I just bought. Be careful


    not to break it when you bring it over.¡±


    Moses immediately agreed. ¡°Ms. Jo, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    With everything settled, Josie sat in a corner, lost in thought. Dexter couldn¡¯t bear to see her so


    negative. He walked past her and said, ¡°Mallory is in the hospital. You can go see her tomorrow.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, reacting to this news. That made her miss the tenderness in Dexter¡¯s tone.


    By the time she looked up again, he had already gone upstairs, entering the guest room to rest.


    The next day, Moses personally drove Josie to the hospital. The smell of disinfectant was strong.


    Moses followed closely, looking very vignt.


    Mallory was in a VIP ward. When Josie arrived, there was someone inside.


    A man sat by the hospital bed, his back familiar.


    He was peeling an apple as he spoke slowly. ¡°Mal, I treated you well.¡±


    Josie stood still, not rushing to push the door open.


    Mallory said, ¡°Yes. Not many women in the club end up well. You¡¯ve given me status and identity, which


    is wonderful.¡±


    He nodded. Popping a piece of apple into his mouth, he swallowed it before saying, ¡°Then why did you


    betray me?¡±

 Chapter 938

    Chapter 938


    Betrayal.


    Josie tensed up. She had already realized that the man inside was Calvin.


    Moses quietly exined to her, ¡°After Mr. Barrett received your call, he acted immediately. He rescued


    Mallory before she could be captured by Arnold¡¯s men.¡±


    Oh, I understand now.


    Mallory took a deep breath, adopting a yful tone, ¡°Who knows? Maybe I grew tired of ying around


    and longed for a more exciting life.¡±


    This statement was clearly provocative. Calvin nced at her. ¡°Say it again.¡±


    ¡°I said maybe over time, I got tired of ying¡­¡± Mallory¡¯s words were interrupted as Calvin pointed the


    knife he had used to peel the apple directly at her neck. ¡°Think carefully before answering me.¡±


    Mallory looked at him. This man was usually carefree and unconventional, but when he became


    serious, his presence was overwhelming.


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she faced the knife. ¡°Thank you for saving me. It wasn¡¯t in vain that I


    didn¡¯t reveal the secrets of Heaven on Earth during Arnold¡¯s interrogation. Calvin, we broke up two


    months ago. Why are you asking me these questions?¡± she asked with augh.


    ¡°Yes, it has been two months.¡± Calvin put the knife away, ying with it in his hand. ¡°I¡¯ve long


    forgotten.¡±


    ¡°I heard you have a new woman by your side who is quite beautiful.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never had a shortage of women around me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, even when I was with you, women always flocked to you. But you never crossed the line. I


    appreciate that.¡±


    Her words sounded more like a farewell.


    Calvin stopped listening, took a bite of the apple, and stood up. ¡°We¡¯re even now.¡±


    After saying that, he opened the door and left, identally bumping into Josie.


    Josie looked embarrassed as she stepped aside. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t mean to eavesdrop.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s expression darkened. He didn¡¯t pursue it further and walked away. He still appeared


    unrestrained, but upon closer inspection, a hint of loneliness lingered.


    After seeing him leave, Josie quickly entered the hospital room. She looked quite shocked. ¡°What¡¯s


    going on? You¡¯ve broken up!¡±


    Mallory had a wound on her forehead, covered with gauze. She yed with her fingers. ¡°I cheated on


    him.¡±


    Josie was stunned before bursting intoughter. ¡°That¡¯s quite amusing, but I don¡¯t believe it.¡±


    Malloryughed along. ¡°It¡¯s true. Sorry I didn¡¯t tell you immediately.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand why, but she also knew that there were some things she shouldn¡¯t pry into.


    ¡°When I called him that day, I thought he wouldn¡¯t take action, but he still came to save you. It means


    he still has feelings for you. Why not give it another try?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been with him since I was eighteen. It¡¯s been five years.¡± Mallory looked up. ¡°From the beginning, I


    knew we had no future. He would eventually find out that I approached him with a purpose.¡±


    Josie was speechless. After a while, she told Mallory what had happened in thest two days and


    expressed her gratitude.


    ¡°Josie.¡± Mallory suddenly suggested, ¡°Your path isn¡¯t blocked. You should try your luck. At least let


    Dexter know the truth. If he knows, maybe¡ª¡±


    ¡°Maybe what? He won¡¯t get married?¡± Josie sighed. ¡°He has signed a cooperation agreement with the


    Olsen family. Mark won¡¯t let him off easily. I know he has no choice.¡±


    ¡°Are you just going to stand by and watch?¡±


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    Josie¡¯s gaze became evasive, and she didn¡¯t answer.


    After spending some time with Mallory, Josie went to the restroom. Moses still followed her. She


    couldn¡¯t bear it anymore, ¡°Do you have to follow me into the women¡¯s restroom?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Jo, you have too many ways to escape. I have to be cautious.¡±

 Chapter 939

    Chapter 939


    Josie remained silent. ¡°Come in if you¡¯re so capable.¡±


    The hospital restroom was always bustling with people. At that moment, women of all ages were


    coming and going. Moses swallowed nervously, but upon remembering Dexter¡¯s instructions, he


    bravely followed them in.


    ¡°Good heavens! This is thedies¡¯ restroom! What on earth are you, a grown man, doing in here!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re being a rogue!¡±


    ¡°Why are you still entering? If you step any further, I¡¯ll call the police!¡±


    Moses raised his hand. ¡°I¡¯m just here to find someone. I¡¯ll leave immediately! I promise I won¡¯t look


    around!¡±


    However, no matter how he tried to exin, no one believed him. Someone even raised a broom to


    chase him away, while others went to fetch the security guard.


    In the partition, Josie listened to themotion outside, took out her phone, and sent a message. She


    waited a while before receiving a reply. She didn¡¯t rush to go out. Only when Moses¡¯ face turned red,


    and the security guard was about to take him away did she slowly walk out.


    Seeing here out, Moses felt as if he had received a royal pardon. ¡°Josie, you scared me to death!¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°Who asked you toe in? I don¡¯t have wings. Do you think I can fly out?¡±


    Moses¡¯ blush had not yet faded, his face showing a look of helplessness.


    Josie stepped into the elevator, which was crowded with people. She bumped into a man wearing a


    duckbill cap. He immediately helped her up, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m in a rush.¡±


    After saying that, he left.


    Moses didn¡¯t even get a clear look at what he looked like.


    ¡°Josie, are you okay?¡±


    Josie shook her head, watching the man¡¯s retreating figure in the distance.


    Upon returning to the ward, Josie saw a woman seated in a wheelchair emerging from within. She was


    there to visit Mallory.


    A jolt of rm shot through Josie¡¯s heart. She quickly entered, only to find Mallory¡¯splexion even


    worse than before and tears streaming uncontrobly down her face. ¡°Who is that?¡±


    Mallory took a deep breath. ¡°Calvin¡¯s ex-wife.¡±


    Josie froze, letting out a gasp. Even though Calvin keeps a low profile, how could I have been unaware


    that he had a divorce?


    ¡°He¡­ how did he¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s also my sister.¡± Mallory managed a smile, her expression strained. ¡°Would you like to hear about


    it?¡±


    Mallory remembered in May when she was neen, the weather The roadside trees seemed too


    languid even to muster up any energy.


    It was just an ordinary day. She stepped out of theboratory, changed her clothes, and opened her


    phone to see a WhatsApp message from her mother.


    The gist of the message was that her room had a nice view, and her sister wanted to move in,


    especially since she wasn¡¯t usually home.


    Mallory¡¯s father passed away early, and two yearster, her mother remarried. Her stepfather,


    surnamed Sadler, came from a high-ranking family. His words carried weight in Wavery. Thus, Mallory


    started living under someone else¡¯s roof with her mother.


    That way of life didn¡¯tst long. Mallory pulled herself together and was admitted to the best university


    in Wavery. She usually lived in the university dormitory and only returned to the Sadler family home


    when necessary.


    The Sadler family had a daughter named Zendaya Sadler, who was two years older than Mallory. A car


    ident crushed her dreams when she was just eighteen. The Sadler family cherished her deeply,


    always fearing another mishap. To curry favor with the Sadler family, Mallory¡¯s mother naturally catered


    to Zendaya¡¯s every whim.


    Zendaya had no real reason for wanting Mallory¡¯s room. She just enjoyed possessing Mallory¡¯s things


    as a way to assert her position in the Sadler family. It had always been that way. Everyone knew it, and


    they indulged her.


    Mallory replied with a short text: I disagree.


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    ¡°Anyway, you hardly ever go back to the Sadler family house, so it doesn¡¯t really matter if she stays


    there.¡± In the dormitory, her roommate casually remarked after listening to the story.


    ¡°What she wants is not just my room.¡± Mallory sat down, took out herptop from her bag, and began to


    work on the project she hadn¡¯t finished in the morning.


    She couldn¡¯t figure it out in the morning, and she still couldn¡¯t figure it out now.


    ¡°By the way, do you know Calvin?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±

 Chapter 940

    Chapter 940


    ¡°There¡¯s one of his public lectures in a couple of days. You¡¯ve been struggling with your topic, haven¡¯t


    you? Why don¡¯t you go? You might find some fresh inspiration.¡±


    Calvin, a former researcher at the Academy of Sciences, came from a highly prestigious family. His


    grandfather made significant contributions to the current Wavery. The Barrett family¡¯s status in Wavery


    was so high that it surpassed all others. Even several Sadler familiesbined could not match them.


    Calvin was only twenty-five that year. He got marriedst year, and his wife was said to be his


    childhood sweetheart. They maintained a low profile in public, to the extent that not even a photo or the


    name of his wife could be found.


    After his marriage, he resigned from his research position and ventured into business, primarily running


    country clubs, which was considered somewhat shady.


    His family¡¯s status paved the way for a smooth career.


    However, among his peers in Wavery, Calvin had the least pretensions apart from Dexter. The patents


    he held and the articles he had published were more than enough to qualify him to teach in universities.


    However, he was always somewhat hesitant.


    Mallory remembered Calvin¡¯s appearance. ¡°He¡¯s incredibly charming. I probably can¡¯tpete with the


    multitude of fangirls he has in his ssroom.¡±


    Her roommate pondered it and agreed with Mallory¡¯s words, so she gave up the idea as well.


    ¡°Who knows what good karma Mr. Barrett¡¯s wife umted in her past life to be able to marry him?


    After all, he is Calvin!¡±


    Mallory nced at her mother¡¯s message: Come to Centennial Hills tonight.


    ¡°Consider it from a different perspective. Now that Mr. Barrett is newly married, it¡¯s even less likely that


    he¡¯d be interested in any schoolgirl crushes.¡±


    Her words brought rity to her roommate.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    Mallory¡¯s roommate left early for a night ss, while Mallory took a taxi to Centennial Hills, a well-


    known affluent neighborhood. On the side of the road, a few women were gathered around a young


    woman, talking. In the midst of their shoving, half of the young woman¡¯s underwear was exposed.


    She wore the famous brand Agent Provocateur.


    Tired of the same old scenes, Mallory averted her gaze.


    Upon reaching the destination, Mallory finally understood why her mother had called her.


    That day was Casper¡¯s birthday banquet. From the entrance, one could see a sea of luxury cars,


    including Maybachs, Maseratis, and BMWs, creating an overwhelming sight.


    ¡°Mallory, greet your elders.¡±


    The sound of her mother¡¯s voice brought Mallory back to reality. The two people in front of her were


    Calvin¡¯s parents, their faces kind and friendly.


    ¡°Hello.¡±


    That was Mallory¡¯s first visit to the Barrett residence. The house, styled in traditional architecture,


    spanned over six hundred square meters. At that moment, it was filled with people scattered here and


    there.


    Rumor had it Casper hadn¡¯t hosted a birthday banquet for many years. That was because his youngest


    grandson passed away on his birthday. To prevent everyone from recalling that tragic event, the old


    man simply decided not to hold any more banquets.


    However, he seemed to have let go of the past this year.


    Through the floor-to-ceiling window, Mallory saw Zendaya sitting in a wheelchair. She was left in the


    corner, groomed like a beautiful doll, an empty shell without a soul.


    Mallory¡¯s mother warned her, ¡°Take this banquet seriously. You¡¯re about to graduate. It won¡¯t hurt you to


    start mingling with some influential people. This is a rare opportunity, understand?¡±


    So, she changed into the dress her mother had brought for her, a one-shoulder gown in green. When


    she leaned forward, a hint of cleavage could be subtly seen.


    Calvin got out of the car, gift in hand, and saw that scene as he passed by the garden.


    Mallory stood before the gardenia flowers, engaging in a lively conversation with a scion. The scion


    peeled a piece of candy and brought it to her lips. Mallory extended her tongue and took it in.


    Calvin watched that scene, showing no reaction, and continued to walk forward. ¡°Where is Grandpa?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s in the study, writing with the master. Sir, pleasee this way.¡±


    With so many people around, the Sadler family didn¡¯t have the qualifications to dine at the same table


    as the Barrett family. Therefore, despite the rtively small Barrett residence, Mallory never had the


    chance to meet Calvin.


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    ¡°Mallory, go and chat with your sister.¡± Mom hinted with a nce.


    Mallory sat in ce for half a minute, but eventually, she approached Zendaya.

 Chapter 941

    Chapter 941


    Zendaya was able to walk, but it wasn¡¯t a pleasant sight. That¡¯s why she chose to sit in a wheelchair


    and y the role of eye candy. Naturally, Mallory was tasked with pushing her around.


    ¡°You seem quite pleased, don¡¯t you?¡± Zendaya asked.


    ¡°What should I be pleased about? That you disrupted my peaceful evening by dragging me to this


    event or that I have to push your wheelchair?¡± Mallory replied. She loved annoying Zendaya with


    passive-aggressive remarks that drove her crazy.


    Envy shed in Zendaya¡¯s eyes as she looked at Mallory. Suddenly, she leisurely said, ¡°How long do


    you think you can manipte others with your sex appeal?¡±


    Just as Mallory was about to respond, Zendaya suddenly pushed off the ground with her intact left leg.


    The wheelchair slipped from Mallory¡¯s grasp and shot straight down the slope.


    ¡°Help! Save me!¡± Zendaya screamed, looking like a butterfly plunging from the sky. All eyes turned to


    Mallory.


    Their mother pushed her way through the crowd and pped Mallory hard.


    Mallory didn¡¯t flinch, nor did she offer any exnation. She simply looked at Zendaya, who was


    surrounded by doctors, with pity. Her gaze only served to enhance Zendaya¡¯s portrayal of being the


    wronged party.


    Calvin wasn¡¯t too far away. He furrowed his brows at the scene, and his voice was icy as he said,


    ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Meanwhile, everyone began whispering amongst themselves,menting on how the Sadler family¡¯s


    stepdaughter was wicked and that Calvin wouldn¡¯t let her off the hook.


    Mallory obediently followed Calvin and entered his study. The tall man had his back to her as he


    unbuttoned his cuff with one hand, and the phone screen on the table was still lit.


    She caught a gentle whiff of sandalwood. It was a rather forbidding scent that perfectly matched his air


    of mystery.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett,¡± she softly called out.


    Turning around, he gazed at her for a moment before finally saying, ¡°You¡¯ve lost weight.¡±


    He had been on a business trip to Sumanthova, and they hadn¡¯t spoken on the phone or met in person.


    Tiptoeing to help him take off his coat, she could hear his breathing next to her ear as he curtly asked,


    ¡°Did you do it?¡±


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    She didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she gracefully poured a ss of water and handed it to him. ¡°In what


    capacity are you asking me that question, Mr. Barrett?¡±


    ¡°A year ago, it was you who cornered me in the bathroom without your underwear,¡± he replied, raising


    his voice slightly as he refreshed her memory.


    Mallory shot him a sidelong nce. ¡°That¡¯s in the past.¡±


    He turned her face back toward him and pried open her mouth with his fingers. Her pale lips instantly


    regained their color, and saliva trickled from the corners of her mouth.


    Struggling fiercely, she bit down and cried out in frustration, ¡°No brother-inw would treat his sister-in-


    law like this!¡±


    ¡°What did you call me?¡± he asked, amused.


    ¡°Brother-inw!¡±


    He chuckled as his hand glided up her delicate leg.


    Embarrassment washed over her, and she tried to escape. However, he easily pulled her back and


    pinned her down on the sofa, fixing his gaze on her lips. ¡°Tell me. Am I the stubborn one, or is it you?¡±


    Not wanting to admit defeat, she was forced to look up. ¡°I thought I made myself clear a month ago.¡±


    One month ago, she had sent him a message that read: ¡°Let¡¯s end this.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t responded or reached out to her. Therefore, she thought that was how adults silently parted


    ways.


    Calvin lowered his voice and sounded incredibly seductive as he said, ¡°Then you shouldn¡¯t havee


    today. Are you nning to find another rich family¡¯s son after leaving me? Using your ex as a stepping


    stone is not the way things should be done.¡±


    ¡°Calvin Barrett!¡±


    ¡°You should address me as brother-inw.¡±


    Mallory couldn¡¯t control her physical reaction to him, and her eyes reddened as she slumped against


    him. ¡°Do you also believe that I tried to harm Zendaya?¡±


    Shecked morality. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have seduced Zendaya¡¯s husband in the first ce.


    Calvin, too,cked morality. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have sumbed to Mallory¡¯s seduction and even


    seemed to be a bit addicted to it.

 Chapter 942

    Chapter 942


    Calvin¡¯s grip loosened as he heard her question, and his enthusiasm instantly faded. ¡°Mallory, there are


    times when it¡¯s better to know when to stop.¡±


    That meant he believed it.


    He had left Mallory looking somewhat disheveled. While she fixed herself up, she said, ¡°Sometimes, I


    feel sorry for Zendaya. In the end, things like childhood sweethearts and growing old together are just a


    joke.¡±


    After that, he let her go.


    She left Centennial Hills under the unfriendly stares of the crowd. It was only when she stood by the


    roadside hailing a cab that something urred to her. I seem to have a ce here, too.


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    Over the past year, Calvin had showered her with gifts, giving her top-tier luxury items every month.


    Besides the house in Wavery, he had also bought her several properties across the country. He never


    hesitated to foot the bill for all those purchases. She coulde and go as she pleased at his country


    club.


    She had only stayed once at the house in Centennial Hills. That night, she had secretly attended an


    academic salon without telling Calvin and drank wine given to her by her senior. However, Calvin


    ended up catching her red-handed. Quite the actor, he had politely led her away and swiftly brought her


    to this ce. Then, he pinned her against the wall and entered her from behind, filling the air with the


    sound of their lovemaking. Finally, he took a bottle of limited edition red wine from the wine cab and


    poured it all over himself. ¡°You love to drink, don¡¯t you? Lick it clean.¡±


    asionally, she would also think about the first time she met Calvin. It was a month before Zendaya¡¯s


    wedding, and the legendary Barrett family had hosted a banquet that was the talk of the town.


    Mallory had arrivedte as she had been busy with an experiment. As soon as she gently pushed the


    door open and met his shining, jet-ck eyes, she could no longer look away.


    There was arge, floor-to-ceiling window behind him, his long legs were casually propped up, and he


    held a ck file in his hands.


    It was the first time she had seen such a good-looking person, and she couldn¡¯t help but think he was


    really handsome. It was onlyter that she discovered the ck file recorded traces of her life from


    childhood to adulthood.


    Everyone took turns introducing themselves. When it was finally his turn, he casually extended his


    hand. ¡°Calvin Barrett.¡±


    ¡°Mallory Whiteford.¡±


    ¡°A student of Mr. Quinsley?¡±


    The atmosphere turned hostile as everyone¡¯s gaze hardened. Zendaya set down fork, and it made a


    slight sound as it hit the table.


    Mallory didn¡¯t dare utter another word throughout the entire meal. She couldn¡¯t even remember what


    they had talked about while eating. All she remembered was discreetly slipping off her underwear


    under the dining table and stowing it in her bag, then hurrying out after the meal had ended.


    Having had some alcohol, Calvin gazed at her with a faint glimmer in his eyes. ¡°Do you know what


    you¡¯re saying?¡±


    ¡°I said I want to be your lover,¡± she answered, smiling.


    She was only eighteen years old at the time, and the vivacity in her eyes couldn¡¯t be concealed. Her


    bright gaze, with its unmasked ambition and desire, somewhat entranced him. Suddenly, he stepped


    forward, cupped her face, and kissed her.


    Her eyes widened, and she stared nkly at his tall, prominent nose and eyes burning with desire. Just


    like that, a year flew by. Their rtionshipsted a whole year.


    She knew not to go too far and how to y innocent, adeptly managing the ambiguous rtionship


    between them.


    There was just that one time when he had ruined her opportunity to study abroad. The head of the


    faculty had bluntly said, ¡°Send my regards to Mr. Barrett.¡±


    Rebelling, she didn¡¯t visit Calvin for two weeks. When she finally bumped into him at the Sadler family¡¯s


    banquet, she acted as if she didn¡¯t know him. She even took a phone call in front of him, saying to the


    other party, ¡°Don¡¯t be mad. I¡¯lle see you tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Are you seeing someone?¡± her stepfather yfully asked.


    ¡°Mm-hmm.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s expression instantly changed. Without finishing his meal, he elegantly wiped his hands clean,


    then said in front of everyone, ¡°Mallory, I¡¯ve brought the experimental data for you. Come to my room to


    get it.¡±

 Chapter 943

    Chapter 943


    Calvin locked the door from the inside and forcefully took advantage of Mallory.


    With each thrust, he punished her for her audacity. Finally, Calvin pressed down on her lower abdomen


    and thrust even harder as he said, ¡°We¡¯re breaking up.¡±


    Mallory trembled in intense pleasure as she said through clenched teeth, ¡°No!¡±


    Refusing to pleasure her any longer, Calvin tried to pull away. However, she grabbed his hands and


    pleaded pitifully, ¡°Please, I beg you.¡±


    He pinched Mallory¡¯s soft cheek, as if he was ying with a toy.


    It wasn¡¯t until she opened the door that Mallory, whose eyes were still filled with desire, saw Zendaya


    standing outside. She had to lean against the wall just to keep herself steady. After a long pause, tears


    began to roll down her cheeks.


    ¡°You b*tch!¡±


    Mallory sacrificed herself just to upset Zendaya. After achieving her goal, however, she found no joy in


    it. Therefore, she realized this rtionship should not continue.


    After the Barrett family¡¯s birthday banquet, Mallory went back to school as usual. asionally, she


    would hear news about Calvin, but given the vastness of Wavery, it was not surprising that they didn¡¯t


    cross paths.


    Her mother called to urge her, ¡°You hurt herst time, and she¡¯s still in the hospital. Find some time to


    visit her, do you understand me?¡±


    Mallory stared nkly at the


    In the end, she realized she had no right to say such once degraded herself to the level of a dog just to


    please Calvin.


    The assistant closed the door, disappeared from her sight.


    Leaning against the back of


    His gaze fell on her ethereal legs. Once destined to shine on the international dance stage, these legs


    now struggled with even the most basic daily tasks in herter life. It was truly a pity.


    ¡°Why would a


    From a young age, Zendaya schemes behind the scenes were always chilling.


    ¡°You should tell Mallory that.¡±


    Calvin¡¯s expression grew unpleasant


    The assistant letters: Divorce Agreement.


    Zendaya¡¯s want a divorce? You want to divorce me because of Mallory?¡±


    Their marriage had been a hasty affair, and they had lived separately after the wedding. Calvin never


    laid a finger on her, and their marriage was in name only. Although Zendaya didn¡¯t understand his


    reasons for this, she genuinely admired Calvin. Even though they never had sex, and he was still


    supporting Mallory outside, Zendaya felt honored just being acknowledged as Calvin¡¯s wife.


    Why would


    Calvin furrowed his brows ident when you were eighteen was an employee of mypany.¡±


    That casual remark shattered Zendaya¡¯s entire world. She stared at the man before her as if she was


    looking at a monster, and for a long time, she couldn¡¯t utter a single word.


    ¡°It was you?¡±


    Zendaya tried to grab him, but Calvin subtly sidestepped, causing her to fall clumsily to the ground. Her


    eyes were bloodshot as she questioned him resentfully, ¡°Why? I was about to go abroad! Why did you


    have to ruin my future?¡±


    From his elevated position, Calvin


    ¡°You were fifteen the year Yoel turned three. You took him to y in the back of the mountain, but he


    identally stepped into a void and fell into the pond. You were terrified and couldn¡¯t save him. Afraid


    of taking the me, you ran away. Yoel drowned, and it was ruled as an ident due to his yful


    nature. Since then, Old Mr. Barrett has never celebrated his birthday again.¡±


    Calvin slowly knelt down and turned Zendaya¡¯s trembling face to meet his gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted to ask you this. Why didn¡¯t you call for help at the time? He was only three years


    old!¡±


    Yoel was the apple of the Barrett family¡¯s eye, and he always clung fondly to Calvin every day.


    During theirst meeting before his business trip, Yoel clung to him, yfully pleading, ¡°Calvin, could


    you take some pictures of bears for me when you¡¯re in Summerbank?¡±


    Calvin, full of youthful spirit, said, ¡°What¡¯s so hard about that? When I get some free time, I¡¯ll take you


    there so you can see them with your own eyes.¡±


    When he brought home the pictures of the bears, the person who asked for them was gone, and the


    Barrett family was plunged into grief.


    ¡°You knew¡­ You actually knew¡­ How could you possibly have known that?¡±


    Zendaya trembled all over, a fear stemming from her secret being discovered.


    In an instant, it became clear why Calvin chose to marry her and why he wanted Mallory to be involved.


    All of this was just to torment her to the extreme.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.

 Chapter 944

    Chapter 944


    Asserting the moral high ground, he constantly made her question herself, gradually eroding her


    confidence in life. Calvin was even willing to imprison her just to torment her indefinitely.


    Zendaya covered her face with both hands and cried until she nearly fainted. ¡°Will you forgive me? I¡¯m


    sorry¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­ I was too scared back then¡­¡±


    ¡°You can tell Yoel that.¡±


    The room was filled with the sound of sobbing. The door was slightly ajar, allowing light to fall on


    Calvin¡¯s shoulders, yet he remained engulfed in solitude and destion.


    A sudden soft noise pierced Calvin¡¯s ears. As if guided by an unseen force, he looked up and gazed


    into the distance, his eyesnding on a woman who shouldn¡¯t have been there.


    Mallory¡¯s voice was weary. Facing Josie¡¯s astonishment, she forced a bitter smile and said, ¡°That


    happened when I was neen. In the blink of an eye, I¡¯m already twenty-three.¡±


    So much had transpired over the years that it was impossible to recount everything at once.


    Josie was already amazed. She had always believed that Mallory had many stories, but she never


    expected this.


    ¡°Do you have any regrets?¡± She clenched her fists.


    Mallory¡¯s mind wandered as she replied, ¡°My biggest regret is not stopping their marriage. Josie, if you


    have a choice, I hope you won¡¯t end up regretting like I did.¡±


    That was a hint.


    Josie, realizing btedly, was about to leave and pressed the button for the third floor in the elevator.


    Moses noticed her unusual state and asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t we leaving?¡±


    ¡°I still have a friend to meet.¡±


    ¡°What friend?¡±


    Josie looked at him. ¡°Do you have to report everything I do and everyone I talk to to Dexter?¡±


    Moses pursed his lips, nodding slightly.


    Josie fell silent for three seconds before saying, ¡°I am going to meet his former love rival. Go ahead


    and inform him.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just forget it, Josie.¡± Moses could imagine how terrifying Dexter¡¯s expression would be. To make


    matters worse, Dexter had instructed him to watch over Josie alone.


    If she insisted on doing something, he couldn¡¯t physically stop her.


    As the elevator descended, the woman in the mirror crossed her arms and said leisurely, ¡°What are you


    afraid of? He¡¯s getting married, so he won¡¯t care about an ex-wife like me.¡±


    Moses leaned to one side. ¡°Actually, we can all see that Ms. Olsen is not as important to him as you


    are. You hold a special ce in his heart. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have specifically asked me to follow


    you around.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s just afraid that I¡¯ll cause trouble at his wedding,¡± Josie replied nonchntly.


    The elevator doors slid open, and she headed straight for the internal medicine department. Inside the


    office, several doctors were engrossed in their work. Upon seeing the radiant and beautiful woman


    enter, they all paused in surprise.


    Josie looked around but didn¡¯t see the person she was looking for. ¡°Excuse me for the interruption. Is


    Dr. Sander here?¡±


    Someone quickly responded, ¡°Dr. Sander is still in the middle of a surgery.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m his friend; can I wait here?¡± Josie asked.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s desk was cluttered with academic papers and various books. Josie sat in his chair with


    Moses by her side at all times.


    It was as if she had brought a bodyguard with her.


    ¡°Could you please not stand in front of me? I want to rest my eyes for a bit.¡± Josie seemed genuinely


    intent on waiting for Matthew to finish his surgery.


    Moses dutifully stood guard behind her. Only after confirming that she had truly fallen asleep did he


    allow himself a moment to stretch his limbs.


    Josie opened her eyes, silently picked up the pen, and swiftly wrote a line of text on Matthew¡¯s sticky


    note.


    By the time Moses turned his head, Josie had already stood up. ¡°I suddenly don¡¯t feel like waiting


    anymore. Let¡¯s go.¡±Content held by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 945

    Chapter 945


    Moses frowned in confusion, trying to make sense of her seemingly nonsensical actions.


    Josie didn¡¯t cause any more trouble. Instead, she went straight back to Mason Garden and settled


    down for a nap in what had once been the master bedroom.


    Although the furnishings remained the same as her first stay, the once-familiar atmosphere had long


    since disappeared.


    It was a mix of ambiguity, sweetness, and bitterness.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The days she spent with Dexter now seemed like a distant memory to her.


    Josie pulled back the curtains, inspected the room for any hidden devices, and proceeded to open the


    laptop that Moses had brought her. Wearing her headphones, she took out a folder from her bag.


    This was what the man with a baseball cap had slipped into her bag when they identally bumped


    into each other at the hospital earlier.


    The man was none other than Justin.


    When Arnold had trapped her in the car, the first person she had contacted through the navigation


    software was Justin.


    At that time, she never would have thought that there was a bomb involved. She had only asked for


    help with one thing. She said, ¡°Heather¡¯s document should still be in Sky Pce. Now that Arnold isn¡¯t


    there, I need you to find a way to locate it and discreetly take it out!¡±


    When trouble struck Arnold, the county club was thrown into chaos, and Justin quickly found the


    document.


    Josie then took advantage of another visit to the hospital to stage a chance encounter with him.


    She quickly unfolded the document, and sure enough, it contained information about Heather. The


    records detailed every event and person she had encountered from childhood to adulthood.


    Josie quickly read through it, and her finger stopped at a name.


    Heather, also known as Rachel, became isted after entering university, living a solitary life. Josie


    suspected that this was a deliberate ploy by Arnold to obstruct any investigation.


    However, Heather had a very good friend in high school named Ruby Langdon.


    Josie pressed her finger firmly on the name as she read it.


    Just then, a sudden noise pierced the silence within her headphones.


    ¡°Her behavior wasn¡¯t unusual today. After visiting Mallory, she went to see a doctor named Matthew.


    Unfortunately, he wasn¡¯t avable, so we returned home.¡±


    That¡¯s Moses¡¯s voice¡­ Seems like he wasted no time in giving his report, huh?


    Amplified by the earpiece, Dexter¡¯s voice sounded very captivating as he asked, ¡°Matthew?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Can you tell what she¡¯s up to?¡±


    Moses shook his head, then, as if remembering something, he said, ¡°She mentioned going to visit your


    former love rival¡­¡±


    The volume of his voice gradually decreased as he finished speaking.


    Dexter¡¯s intense stare made Moses feel intimidated. He flinched a little when Dexter demanded, ¡°Tell


    me exactly what she said.¡±


    Just then, the assistant knocked on the door. ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Olsen is here.¡±


    Dexter nodded, and Moses left. After a slight rustling sound, Josie heard the sound of high heels


    approaching slowly.


    ¡°Dex, I figured you must be exhausted these past few days, so I asked my mother to teach me how to


    make mushroom soup for you,¡± Heather said as she opened the insted container, her words


    delivered with a gentle tone and a warm smile, devoid of any aggression.


    ¡°Leave such tasks for the housekeeper. Your hands aren¡¯t meant for this kind of work.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice


    remained calm and indifferent, appearing gentle yet seemingly unconcerned.


    Josie subconsciously tightened her grip on the paper.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Heather served the mushroom soup. ¡°I simmered it for three hours. Have a taste.¡±


    A nonchnt smile appeared on Dexter¡¯s lips as he took a sip. ¡°It¡¯s quite good. Thank you for your hard


    work.¡±


    Encouraged by the praise, Heather¡¯s spirits lifted. She asked, ¡°Is that so? Well then, I¡¯ll have to improve


    my culinary skills. After all, being Mrs. Russell requires both virtue and talent.¡±


    At the mention of ¡®Mrs. Russell¡¯, Dexter¡¯s expression froze momentarily before swiftly returning to


    normal.


    Naturally, Josie didn¡¯t see it.

 Chapter 946

    Chapter 946


    Josie overheard Heather asking, ¡°I¡¯ve arranged to go look at wedding dresses this afternoon. Will you


    come with me, Dex?¡±


    Dexter responded with a light and indifferent tone, ¡°The true significance of a wedding dress is only


    appreciated at the wedding.¡±


    Heather was taken aback by his response, but maintained her lively tone as she said, ¡°Well, after I try


    on the dresses, I¡¯ll take some detailed photos for you. The rest will remain a mystery.¡±


    Dexter nodded, neither approving nor disapproving.


    He then asked, ¡°How is everything at home? Is there anything you need help with?¡±


    In an intimate rtionship, getting involved in each other¡¯s family affairs could be seen as the epitome


    of closeness.


    Josie remembered the times when Paul was still around. Dexter had joined her in visiting and even


    cooked for them. His care and attention to detail were truly remarkable.


    It was only now that Josie realized the pain of seeing him be someone else¡¯s man.


    ¡°Everything is fine. Laura is managing the business, so Father doesn¡¯t need to worry too much. Mother


    is also taking good care of him. Oh, and Sum is undergoing psychological therapy.¡±


    It seemed like everything was going well.


    Josie neatly organized the documents and found a note at the bottom. It read: ¡°All information about


    Arnold has beenpletely sealed off. It will not affect the wedding on the 15th.¡±


    Heather patiently waited for Dexter to finish his work. Together, they left Russell Group and headed


    directly to the Olsen Residence to visit their elders.


    This was how a newlywed couple, immersed in sweet romance, was supposed to be.


    The Olsen Residence had a signal jammer, making it difficult for Josie to continue eavesdropping with


    rity.


    So, she simply shut down herputer andy down on the bed to sleep.


    Soon, she was awakened by a series of urgent knocks on the door, apanied by Julie¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Mrs. Russell. Mrs. Russell.¡±


    Squinting her eyes, Josie was puzzled about her visitor when she opened the door and was surprised


    to see Julie, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time. ¡°It¡¯s you.¡±


    With a bowl of steaming hot soup in her hands, Julie smiled and said, ¡°Mr. Russell mentioned your


    return and specially requested me toe back to Mason Garden to take care of you.¡±


    Surprised, Josie thought that Julie might have misunderstood. ¡°Um¡­ But I¡¯ll only be staying for a few


    days.¡±


    Not to mention I was forced to stay here¡­


    However, Julie didn¡¯t seem to mind. ¡°Regardless of how many days, it¡¯s always good to have you


    back.¡±


    Seated at the dining table in the downstairs hall, Josie savored each sip of the heartwarming soup. The


    nostalgic taste was truly something she had missed.


    Julie continued, sharing, ¡°Josie, Mr. Russell was concerned that you might not like the chef¡¯s dishes, so


    he brought me back. He¡¯s very thoughtful.¡±


    As she spoke, she deliberately observed Josie¡¯s expression.


    Josie remained calm and reminded her, ¡°Julie, we¡¯re already divorced. It¡¯s not appropriate for you to


    call me ¡®Mrs. Russell¡¯ anymore.¡±


    Julie caught on and chuckled. ¡°Oh, silly me. I¡¯ve been calling you that for so long that it¡¯s hard for me to


    break the habit.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Just then, a ck car pulled up, signaling Dexter¡¯s return.


    Josie identally dropped her spoon, causing it to clink against the rim of the bowl, producing a crisp


    sound.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Dexter entered the room with a chilly aura, radiating an air of aloofness. His demeanor was icy and


    detached, making him stand out in stark contrast to the warmth of the room.


    Casting a nce in Josie¡¯s direction, he noticed she was even quieter than she had been yesterday.


    Julie stepped forward to take his coat and greeted, ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s with the attitude?¡± He approached Josie and lifted her chin in a somewhat impolite manner, as


    if he were yfully engaging with a small dog.


    Josie found it surprising that he didn¡¯t stay over at the Olsen Residence. Brushing away his hand with


    composure, she quipped, ¡°Mr. Russell, it seems like you have quite a bit of free time. Could it be that


    your lovely wife finds you a bit dull and prefers not to be by your side?¡±


    Dexter had no interest in hearing a single word of what she was saying.


    He simply immersed himself in his meal after Julie brought him a serving of the same food, showcasing


    his consistently elegant eating style that was always a sight to behold.

 Chapter 947

    Chapter 947


    Josie observed him finish eating and then examined herself.


    He asked, ¡°Would you like some?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Your appetite isrger than I expected.¡±


    After consuming the mushroom soup that Heather had delivered from Russell Group, he could go


    home and have another serving. Who wouldn¡¯t find that ironic?


    Dexter ignored her passive-aggressive tone. As Julie cleared the dishes, Josie leaned back in her chair


    and said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave this ce once you¡¯re married, so there¡¯s no need to bring Mrs. Carroll back.¡±


    She was used to being independent. Having another person around felt like a hassle, even if it was


    only for a few days.


    Dexter continued to ignore her, ying with his phone and seemingly replying to a message. She


    watched his slender fingers glide over the phone case, her heart pounding like thunder as if those


    fingers were tracing over her forbidden areas.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if Dexter had actually noticed the bug.


    After finishing replying to the message, he looked up and met her conflicted gaze. Squinting his eyes,


    he asked, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Josieposed her expression. ¡°Your phone case has oxidized. Why haven¡¯t you reced it?¡±


    Dexter casually flipped his phone. ¡°I have a fondness for old things.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t see thating,¡± Josie retorted quickly, scoffing coldly right away.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if it was just her imagination, but she thought she saw a hint of a smile on his face. It


    was a rxed expression. Before she could take a closer look, Larry walked in from outside. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, Mr. Lockhart is here.¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    The rxed expression on Dexter¡¯s face quickly faded.


    Josie considerately went upstairs to give them space for their meeting.


    Seth had always been part of Dexter¡¯s faction within Russell Group. After Henry¡¯s death, Russell


    Group¡¯s administration was in turmoil, with reformists and conservatives at odds. Dexter was not in a


    favorable position during that period.


    A reformation was inevitable. His ambition was to expand the business, and cooperation with the Olsen


    family was also necessary.


    Josie entered her room and turned on theputer. The conversation from downstairs reached her


    ears, every word clear as a bell.


    ¡°We just received news that Mr. Harrison is already gathering scattered shares, aiming to surpass our


    equity in order to achieve impeachment.¡±


    Dexter asked casually, ¡°How much have we collected so far?¡±


    ¡°The amount we can confirm at the moment is thirty percent.¡±


    Russell Group had always been a one-man autocracy. Over the years, Dexter alone held forty percent


    of the shares, overpowering everyone else. Later, when Yanis was incarcerated, Dexter bought back


    the shares at a very low price. He currently held forty-six percent of the shares in total.


    Once Isaac collected more shares than Dexter, there would be a significant change within Russell


    Group.


    Dexter let out a coldugh. ¡°Those people in Russell Group, their intent to harm me never dies.¡±


    Seth was very anxious. ¡°Mr. Russell, what if he really seeds¡ª¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why the project needs to progress quickly, and our expansion abroad must be steady,¡± Dexter


    stated assertively, his tone sharp and resolute.


    Seth expressed his understanding, but he couldn¡¯t help but worry. ¡°However, this step is too big. The


    funds required are more than we expected. For now, we can still rely on the bank, but in the long run,


    this capital chain will be a major problem.¡±


    If the chain broke, it was game over, and there was a good chance that Dexter would have to step


    down.


    Dexter remained silent, his expression unreadable.


    Seth quickly reassured, ¡°However, your wedding with Ms. Olsen is just a couple of days away. Once


    that¡¯s settled, funding will no longer be an issue.¡±


    Listening in, Josie could discern that they were being driven to resort to drastic measures. Perhaps


    Dexter¡¯s insistence on forming a marriage alliance with the Olsen family is not solely due to Liana¡¯s


    identity, but also due to the binding of interests. He has no way out.

 Chapter 948

    Chapter 948


    ¡°Mr. Lockhart,¡± Dexter¡¯s voice drawled out, ¡°What about you?¡±


    Seth was taken aback. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Have you ever considered sitting in my position over all these years?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were as sharp as a knife¡¯s edge, capable of piercing straight into someone¡¯s heart.


    Seth was startled before ingratiating lines carved his face. ¡°Mr. Russell, my loyalty to you has never


    wavered over all these years. Not even for a second, and the heavens can bear witness to that.


    Moreover, I¡¯ve always believed that Russell Group can only continue to thrive under your leadership!¡±


    He spoke with absolute conviction and ttery. Seeing Dexter withdraw his gaze, he continued, ¡°Rest


    assured, the shares in my hands will never be sold to Mr. Harrison.¡±


    After hearing this, Dexter¡¯s expression remained unreadable. He ordered his men to see the guest out.


    Once Seth had left, Larry stepped forward and whispered, ¡°Should we keep an eye on Mr. Lockhart?¡±


    Dexter hummed in agreement, picking up his coffee cup and taking a sip.


    Larry hesitated for a bit, then added, ¡°Mr. Russell, please don¡¯t take this the wrong way, but Ms. Warren


    also holds some shares of Russell Group.¡±


    The meaning of the words was apparent.


    Before, Josie had never considered meddling in Russell Group¡¯s affairs, but since Larry suddenly


    brought it up, she btedly recalled that she did indeed possess some shares of Russell Group.


    When they divorced, Dexter personally gave her one percent of it.


    But what can this one percent do?Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Dexter probably felt the same way and said, ¡°Hers doesn¡¯t count.¡± He didn¡¯t want to involve her in the


    intricate andplex internal affairs.


    The conversation ended, and Josie took off her headphones, sitting in a daze. Just then, her phone


    rang. It was a call from Morgan.


    The voice from the other side was asnguid as ever. ¡°Are you with Dexter?¡±


    Josie walked barefoot to the balcony. With a hint of helplessness in her voice, she grumbled, ¡°Why do


    you ask when you already know?¡±


    He said yfully, ¡°I¡¯ve taken care of the matters in Rivodia. I should be able to return to Wavery in a


    couple of days. Are you aware of Russell Group¡¯s internal strife?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, feeling the chill ofte autumn. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of it.¡±


    ¡°Dexter wants to expand his business overseas and needs the support of the Olsen family. The


    handover is likely to bepleted at the wedding in two days. You¡­ might want to give it some more


    thought.¡±


    Even Morgan was hesitating. Josie fell silent for a moment. ¡°Thought about what?¡±


    ¡°Put yourself in his shoes.¡±


    The steady and confident footsteps echoed outside, drawing closer step by step. Josie, clutching her


    phone, pursed her lips and said, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    Morgan understood and said, ¡°Once everything is over,e back to Rivodia with me. I¡¯ll help you find


    your father. Instead of cing your trust in the police or Dexter, why not believe in me? I¡¯m telling you


    the truth, Josie.¡±


    At that moment, Josie¡¯s back tensed. She didn¡¯t catch the implications behind Morgan¡¯s words. All she


    could hear was Dexter¡¯s footsteps getting closer and closer.


    ¡°I¡¯m hanging up.¡±


    She turned around just as the man was pushing the door open. One stood in the light, while the other


    was shrouded in the shadows, their positions clearly defined.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze fell on her bare, pristine feet. Josie was reminded of past instances when he had


    scolded her for not wearing shoes, and she subconsciously brought her feet together.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°To get my clothes.¡±


    After they parted ways, nothing in the room was moved, including the items in the closet.


    Josie let out a sigh, bypassed him to shut theptop, and waited in silence.


    Dexter took his clothes and went into the bathroom, and the sound of water carried into the room.


    Josie¡¯s phone vibrated, indicating a message from Morgan. It read: The Bastille Group and Russell


    Group are currently vying for the remaining projects after the Carter Group¡¯s dissolution. If possible,


    can you help me find some documents?


    Josie scrolled down, viewing the content of the documents. She had seen them before in Dexter¡¯s


    study.


    Perhaps fearing her reluctance, Morgan sent another text: Russell Group might not necessarily need


    these materials, so there¡¯s no need to feel burdened. I¡¯ve helped you a lot, Jo. Help me out just this


    once.

 Chapter 949

    Chapter 949


    The sound of water continued.


    Josie pursed her lips and turned to leave.


    There weren¡¯t many servants in the Mason Garden now, so she could move around freely. What


    surprised her was that the furnishings in the study had hardly changed, and all the documents were still


    there. Even some confidential items were untouched, and their codes remained unchanged.


    Josie was taken aback.


    In the past, Dexter had been careless around her, and even now, it seemed to be the same.


    She didn¡¯t turn on the lights. Sitting in front of theputer, she quickly searched for the content she


    needed. She only sent a portion of the information and then cleared the history.


    What does the downfall of the Carter Group have to do with Rivodia? Morgan, businesspeople are


    driven by profit. I know you are using me, but we both need to be cautious.


    She lowered her head to send a message, fully aware of the situation between the two of them.


    Morgan was typing away. As she waited for a response, there was a sudden click. The study was


    bathed in bright light, and she found herself in full view of the man standing at the doorway.


    He was dressed in silk pajamas, his hair still wet. His gaze was cold as he asked slowly, ¡°What are you


    looking for?¡±


    Josie clenched her phone, forcing herself to remain calm. ¡°Myputer suddenly crashed, so I used


    yours to send something,¡± she said, breaking into a cold sweat.


    Dexterzily leaned against the door. Whether he believed her or not was unclear.


    Josie stood up. As she walked past him, she thanked him.


    However, she couldn¡¯t walk away. Hisrge handnded on her wrist, forcefully pulling her into his


    embrace.


    His scorching presence became evident as his icy lips touched her ear. ¡°You¡¯re nervous.¡±


    Josie¡¯s voice trembled. ¡°You startled me by showing up so suddenly.¡±


    Unable to break free, she decided to stop wasting her energy.


    ¡°What did you send?¡±


    ¡°Work documents.¡±


    ¡°Myputer has a blocking feature. Would you like me to show you?¡±


    Josie shuddered. The man behind her was like a venomous snake, capable of biting her at any


    moment. She took a deep breath. ¡°Okay, show me.¡±


    Instead of leaving, Dexter stayed. Hisrge, scorching hand encircled her slender waist, exploring bit


    by bit before finally settling on her abdomen.


    Suddenly, he said, ¡°We once had a child,¡± as if sighing.


    The pain buried deep in Josie¡¯s heart resurfaced, and her eyes stung with unshed tears. ¡°It¡¯s in the


    past.¡±


    His lips brushed against her earlobe, and a sudden chill enveloped her entire body. He whispered, ¡°Jo.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t move. She said, ¡°You will have many children with Heathers in the future. The one we had


    shouldn¡¯t be remembered by you.¡±


    Suddenly, Dexter tightened his grip, pulling her even closer.


    When he left the Olsen Residence tonight, Heather clung to his arm, crying and begging him to stay.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Dexter simply pushed her hand away. ¡°It¡¯s toote. I don¡¯t want to damage your reputation by staying.¡±


    Heather shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°So many things have happened at home,


    and I feel so upset being alone. Dex, if you¡¯re with me, I¡¯ll feel much more at ease. Will you stay with


    me, please?¡±


    Dexter lowered his gaze, taking the tissue handed over by the servant. He gently wiped away her tears.


    ¡°There are only a few days left until the wedding. Can you wait a bit?¡±


    Heather still shook her head. ¡°I want you now, Dex. Please.¡±


    A hint of impatience shed in his eyes momentarily, and it vanished in an instant. ¡°Be obedient.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be obedient!¡± She cried even harder. ¡°I know that night, Josie was also there. You took


    her back. Is she your secret lover, Dex? Are you going back to be with her?¡±


    Dexter frowned. ¡°Leanne.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t go back, stay here.¡±


    ¡°There are many people at home to keep youpany.¡±


    ¡°All I want is you.¡± Heather sobbed uncontrobly like a child, trying to hold onto him. ¡°I am your


    fianc¨¦e!¡±

 Chapter 950

    Chapter 950


    The sound of water droplets hitting her hair woke Josie from her slumber. As she regained her senses,


    she spoke, ¡°Dexter, you have a fianc¨¦e.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he responded calmly, seemingly unfazed. ¡°I¡¯ve told you before; you are mine for life.¡±


    Josie looked up, observing the movement of his Adam¡¯s apple on his neck. She was about to retort


    when Dexter released her. He took her hand and led her back to the master bedroom.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Josie eximed in disbelief.


    ¡°Sleep with me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve gone mad!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t touch you.¡±


    Perhaps due to exhaustion, Dexter¡¯s voice was hoarse. ¡°Sleep with me, Josie. I won¡¯t check what you


    just sent.¡±


    That sentence struck a chord with Josie, leaving her motionless.


    So, in the end, the twoy on their sides, with Dexter holding her from behind, making no inappropriate


    moves.


    Josie could hear his slow and steady breathing. The recent stress must have taken a toll on him, as he


    was truly exhausted.


    Just when she thought Dexter had fallen asleep, he suddenly asked, ¡°Why did you choose white that


    day?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    ¡°I exined it back then.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s tone was ambiguous. ¡°On the day you exposed Leanne¡¯s giarism, you were also wearing


    white.¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Just that one instance made him unable to remember anyone else in white.


    ¡°That¡¯s just a coincidence.¡±


    Dexter tightened his grip around her waist, not indicating whether he believed her or not.


    A torrential rainstorm outside made the weather unusually cold. Dexter held her especially tight, and it


    took a long time for Josie to fall asleep. When she woke up the next day, he was gone.


    Only the warmth by her side reminded her thatst night wasn¡¯t a hallucination.


    She turned over and found a pair of cotton slippers that had appeared beside the bed at some point.


    Walking out of the room, Josie looked down from the second floor and could see the scene below.


    A group of people, apparently tailors, were there with suits, waiting for Dexter¡¯s fitting.


    He was still dealing with business matters.


    The leader was in a difficult position. ¡°Mr. Russell, Ms. Olsen specifically instructed us to see you wear


    the suits. Please pick two for the wedding.¡±


    Dexter nced at him. ¡°No need to try.¡±


    The man was sweating profusely. ¡°If you don¡¯t try, I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t report back to Ms. Olsen.¡±


    Dexter took a call and hung up before saying, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid you won¡¯t be able to satisfy me?¡±


    The man was so anxious that he was about to get down on his knees. ¡°I¡­¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze, silently descending the stairs in her cotton slippers. ¡°What¡¯s all the fuss


    about?¡±


    The group of people were taken aback to realize that there was still a woman present, but they didn¡¯t


    express their surprise due to professional etiquette.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it just trying on clothes? Let¡¯s get it done,¡± Josie said, her figure graceful as she walked toward


    theposed Dexter.


    She took the suits from them and then lifted her hand to adjust the man¡¯s hand to help him put them on.


    She even scrutinized him. ¡°This color is too dark. Change it.¡±


    She was about to take it off herself when Dexter grabbed her wrist.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Your fianc¨¦e sent the suits here. Of course, I have to take care of it for her.¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a mocking smile, reaching to help him undress and change into another outfit.


    ¡°This one is good. It fits you well. It can be a backup.¡±


    Bathed in sunlight, the man stood tall and noble in his wedding suit. Josiemented with interest,


    ¡°Try another one.¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter¡¯s temple throbbed.


    Innocently, she said, ¡°Do you want me to send the suits back? Ms. Olsen should be looking forward to


    seeing them.¡±


    Dexter took off his clothes and tossed them aside. ¡°Why are you upset?¡±

 Chapter 951

    Chapter 951


    Josie¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously as she half-smiled. ¡°I¡¯m not upset,¡± she said, ncing at the


    clothes. ¡°Do you know who¡¯s really upset?¡±


    Dexter remained surprisingly calm. ¡°You used to be quite simr to her.¡±


    As soon as the words left his mouth, Josie became anxious. ¡°Don¡¯tpare me to her. It¡¯s bad luck.¡±


    He chuckled softly, gently lifting her chin. ¡°I once said she doesn¡¯t think as much as you do, and that


    still holds true.¡±


    Josie brushed his hand aside and sat down to have breakfast. ¡°Scott wants me to go to the police


    station to give a new statement.¡±


    ¡°He didn¡¯t inform me.¡±


    ¡°Why should he? I am the primary person involved, after all.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Moses to apany you.¡±


    Josie epted without protest. She didn¡¯t turn around, nor did she notice the gaze Dexter fixed upon


    her. She simply left promptly.


    Upon arriving at Russell Group, Larry approached and reported, ¡°Matthew has booked the earliest flight


    to Japrium.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Someone is already taking care of it,¡± Larry continued. ¡°And someone is keeping an eye on Ms. Olsen.


    After you leftst night, she had an argument with udia.¡±


    ¡°For what reason?¡±


    ¡°It seems to be about a dog,¡± Larry recalled. ¡°Ms. Olsen is afraid of dogs, and there happens to be one


    in Olsen Residence. She wanted someone to remove it, but udia stopped her.¡±


    Ah, so that¡¯s the cause.


    The servant didn¡¯t dare make a decision on his own, so he sent for udia. She hurried over and


    found Heather clutching an iron rod. Tearfully, she said, ¡°Mother, I¡¯m really scared of dogs now. Please


    take it away. It barks every day, and I¡¯m on the verge of a nervous breakdown.¡±


    The servant responsible for the chili nts found it hard to believe. Given the vastness of Olsen


    Residence, Heather¡¯s room was far from there. How could she possibly hear a dog barking?


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    udia¡¯s gentle face also appeared somewhat gloomy. ¡°Leanne, has something been bothering you?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not¡­ I hate it. Mother, I really hate it!¡±


    udia patted her on the back. After a moment, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Mother! Do you love me?¡± Heather¡¯s anxiety and anger intensified. ¡°I want you to deal with it now. I


    want it dead!¡±


    The sudden outburst of these words shocked udia. She had been practicing asceticism for many


    years, never taking a life. Upon hearing this, she tightly gripped Heather¡¯s wrist. ¡°Calm down!¡±


    Heather cried until she waspletely drained.


    ¡°Is the dog¡¯s name Pepper?¡± Dexter seemed to recall something as his brows furrowed deeply.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Doubts began to arise within him, so hemanded, ¡°Keep an eye on udia. We must save that dog


    at all costs.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but udia is religious. She probably wouldn¡¯t kill¡­¡±


    ¡°No matter how she handles it, this dog must stay in Wavery!¡± Dexter interrupted.


    Larry immediately went to take care of it.


    Under the autumn sun by the floor-to-ceiling window, Dexter¡¯s expression appearedplex. After a


    while, he suddenly asked, ¡°Larry, do you believe in fate?¡±


    ¡°Fate¡­¡± Larry hesitated before responding, ¡°I only believe in human effort.¡±


    ¡°Everything depends on human effort,¡± Dexter pondered over these words, then asked crisply, ¡°Has


    Josie left yet?¡±


    ¡­


    ¡°Moses, your driving skills have improved tremendously,¡± Josie said from the passenger seat, holding a


    bottle of drink. ¡°When I first met you, you weren¡¯t as steady as you are now.¡±


    Moses found it hard to sit still. ¡°Josie¡­ just say what you want to tell me.¡±


    With a smile, Josie suddenly unbuckled her seatbelt and sshed the drink in her hand directly into


    Moses¡¯ eyes. The drink was spiked with chili powder, causing such a stinging pain that Moses couldn¡¯t


    open his eyes.


    ¡°Holy crap!¡±


    ¡°My apologies.¡± Taking advantage of his momentary loss of control, Josie quickly reached out to spin


    the steering wheel and hit the brakes. She then jumped out of the car and swiftly got into another one


    that had been waiting by the roadside for a while, and sped away.

 Chapter 952

    Chapter 952


    Justin drove at an incredibly high speed. He nced at the rearview mirror, then turned his attention to


    Josie. ¡°What should we do if Dexter finds us?¡±


    Josie tied up her hair in frustration. ¡°Can¡¯t you drive any faster?¡±


    Justin remained patient and quickly replied, ¡°Ruby is currently working as a clerk in a small town in


    Rivodia. She¡¯s diligent and ordinary, just like everyone else.¡±


    ¡°Where is she now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve made arrangements at a small inn where no one will find us.¡±


    Ruby was inconspicuous, so unless someone deliberately sought her out, she wouldn¡¯t attract any


    attention.


    Josie flipped through the documents that Justin had prepared. It seemed that Ruby had been deceived


    by him. Justin had posed as a superior from theirpany, iming that he was taking her on a


    business trip to Wavery.


    Upon arriving at the hotel, Justin hesitated before unlocking the central control. ¡°Josie, I was shocked


    to discover that Heather is not Liana. If she is an imposter, then who is the real Liana?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes swirled, momentarily stumped by the question.


    She opened her mouth. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Justin stared at her face, somewhat incredulous. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°I just want to uncover this conspiracy. You found out everything. How would I know when you don¡¯t?¡±


    Josie spoke these words cautiously, unsure of how much Justin would believe her.


    She could nevere to terms with living as Liana. What did that concept even mean? Would this


    world ept her?


    She felt scared and afraid of having to face it all.


    Justin nodded skeptically. ¡°So why do you want to uncover this conspiracy?¡±


    Josie fell silent for a moment. ¡°I am doing it for¡­ Dexter.¡±


    He helped her out of the car and found the room assigned to Ruby.


    The door swung open, revealing a woman of simple yet striking beauty. ¡°Mr. Warren, you¡¯ve arrived,¡±


    she said.


    Before Justin could speak, Ruby caught sight of Josie standing behind him. She paused, her


    expression somewhat odd. ¡°Mr. Warren, who is this¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous. She just wants to ask you some questions. Just rx.¡±


    Then, Justin left the room, giving them some privacy.


    Ruby noticed that despite the woman¡¯s fashionable clothes, she was quite approachable. Sitting in her


    chair, she smiled and said, ¡°Hello, Ruby. My name is Josie. Have we met somewhere before?¡±


    Ruby also sat down. ¡°You look familiar to me, but I can¡¯t remember where we¡¯ve met. Do you know


    me?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°Today is the first time I¡¯ve met you.¡±


    ¡°So you¡­¡±


    Josie pulled out a photo ID from her bag. ¡°The person you think looks familiar is actually her, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    In the photo, it was unmistakably Heather¡¯s face.


    Ruby covered her mouth in surprise. ¡°This is Rachel! Do you know her? Has something happened to


    her?¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie smiled. ¡°What¡¯s your rtionship with her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m her best friend from high school!¡±


    ¡°No wonder you recognized her at first nce. It seems you care a lot about her. Does she feel the


    same about you?¡±


    Ruby¡¯s expression dimmed. ¡°After she went to college, we lost contact. But¡­ Ms. Warren, has


    something happened to her?¡±


    Josie shook her head regretfully. ¡°No, she changed her name, graduated sessfully, found a good


    job, and even reconciled with her family. She¡¯s doing well. She doesn¡¯t contact you because your


    presence would cause her trouble.¡±


    Ruby was even more shocked. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Josie calmly pulled out another photo. It was a recent picture of Heather. She was sitting in a luxury


    car, sipping coffee, a far cry from the impoverished girl she was in high school.

 Chapter 953

    Chapter 953


    When Josie came out of the room, Justin had already smoked half a pack of cigarettes.


    Upon seeing her, he followed and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the situation?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s still preparing herself mentally. It will take some time,¡± Josie said as she walked away. Ruby¡¯s


    reaction just now was unclear, even after hearing such significant news.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, excuse me for being direct, but even if Rachel really did all these things, what does it


    have to do with me? She was once my best friend. If she¡¯s doing well, why should I betray her?¡±


    After listening, Josie turned her head in confusion. ¡°It seems you truly have nopelling reason to


    help me.¡±


    Ruby fell silent.


    ¡°But as far as I know, you¡¯re already married, and your husband had a car ident six months ago.


    Your family is drowning in debt, and your only child is still in kindergarten. The future, including living


    expenses and education, seems very challenging. Does Rachel know about all this?¡±


    Ruby pursed her lips. Song YouRan had be a wealthy heiress. She wished to sever all ties with


    her past, so how could Rachel possibly be aware and offer help?


    ¡°Even so, I have no reason to betray her.¡±


    ¡°Five million and a house in the city,¡± Josie decided quickly.


    Ruby frowned deeply. ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s worth it, isn¡¯t it? This money is enough for you to pay off your debts and live a good life, Ms.


    Langdon. You shouldn¡¯t refuse for the sake of your family and children.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ why are you¡­¡±


    ¡°I havepelling reasons to do so.¡±


    Josie remembered the conflicted look in Ruby¡¯s eyes before she left and knew everything was settled.


    Five million was more than enough to buy out her so-called friendship.


    Stepping out of the inn, Josie opened the car door. Just as she was about to get in, she received a


    phone call. She answered it without saying a word.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I will help you.¡±


    Josie smiled, gesturing to Justin beside her. ¡°Take her back to Rivodia now to gather evidence.¡±


    Justin nodded, turned around, and retraced his steps. Meanwhile, Josie put away her phone. As she


    instinctively looked up, she suddenly saw a familiar figure. The person was standing across the street,


    gazing at her from a distance.


    Josie¡¯s heart tightened.


    She lowered her gaze to her phone and quickly typed: Take the back door.


    Afterwards, she crossed the street, approaching the person.


    Today, udia was dressed casually, carrying not a designer bag, but a simple canvas tote with a


    church logo on it. She stood by the roadside, watching Josie approach her slowly.


    Inside the coffee shop.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to find Aunt udia in¡­ such a ce.¡± Josie stirred her coffee, pausing for a moment.


    In contrast, udia was much calmer. ¡°What kind of ce is this?¡±


    Josie nced outside at the street view. ¡°This is the most remote part of Wavery. Most people here live


    a life simr to rural areas, with limited ess to education and medical care. Look, even the roads are


    full of potholes.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    udia followed her gaze, her thoughts unknown. ¡°I came here to send the dog away.¡±


    ¡°Dog?¡± Josie was surprised, then something clicked. ¡°Pepper?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Leanne is still not quitefortable with dogs, so I don¡¯t want to force her.¡±


    No wonder udia would appear in such a remote ce.


    Josie always felt nervous when facing her. She pursed her lips and asked, ¡°If you trust me, you could


    give me the dog. I will provide it with a good environment.¡±


    udia took a sip of her coffee. ¡°I heard that Dexter has been with you these past few days.¡±


    Josie clenched her fist, realizing that this was the real topic of the day.

 Chapter 954

    Chapter 954


    Taking a deep breath, she paused her stirring motion with her coffee and looked directly at udia.


    ¡°Aunt udia, you have lived in the world of fame and fortune for decades, yet in the end, you chose to


    live a quiet life. I suppose, besides your own persistence, there must have been external disturbances


    as well.¡±


    She slightly curved her lips, her smile bittersweet. Her clear, bright eyes seemed to prate udia¡¯s


    heart.


    udia¡¯s heart tightened slightly, causing her to feel hesitant to meet her gaze directly.


    ¡°You see, the people living here may be poor, but their lives are simple and routine. The most


    significant life events they encounter are getting married, having children, getting promotions, and


    raises. That¡¯s their whole life.¡± Josie nced sideways, looking at the crowd outside, feeling a sense of


    mncholy.


    ¡°But in our social circle, chaos is like a blooming flower, blinding and bewildering us. Power struggles


    never cease. Many times, what you say doesn¡¯t necessarily hold true.¡±


    ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    ¡°Leanne wants to marry Dexter, and you didn¡¯t approve at first, did you?¡±


    udia¡¯s eyes shimmered. ¡°She could have had a better life.¡±


    ¡°But if she insists, there¡¯s nothing you can do.¡± Josie looked at her. ¡°Aunt udia, if Dexter insists,


    there¡¯s nothing I can do either.¡±


    ¡°Just as you were reluctant to interfere in our affairs back then, I too am unwilling to meddle in theirs


    now.¡±


    udia¡¯s brows furrowed slightly. ¡°If you were unwilling, you wouldn¡¯t have shown up on Leanne¡¯s


    birthday.¡±


    ¡°Are you ming me?¡± Josie calmly asked. As a mother, is she ming me for hurting Heather¡¯s


    heart?


    udia neither agreed nor disagreed.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same, Aunt udia.¡±


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    ¡°That day, the gift you gave to Leanne was a counterfeit. What was your intention?¡± udia finally


    asked, after pondering for a long time as she couldn¡¯t understand the reason.


    Josie stiffened for a moment, then quicklyughed. ¡°giarism is inherently despicable. Isn¡¯t her


    artwork just a forgery?¡±


    This exnation seemed usible, but udia was not convinced. ¡°Is that really what it means?¡± she


    asked.


    The woman in front of her had kind and gentle features, rarely showing anger. Josie looked at her, her


    heart aching. ¡°You can trust me because I¡¯ve grown up here. If Pepperes with me, it can fulfill your


    purpose and also gain a life of freedom.¡±


    udia¡¯s brows furrowed once again, clearly surprised to discover that the now respectable Josie had


    grown up in such a rundown and backward corner.


    For some reason, the thought of Josie having lived in such a ce filled her heart with a bitterness that


    almost spilled over into her eyes.


    ¡°Trust me,¡± she repeated.


    udia then stood up. The car was parked outside. Seeing this, the bodyguard led Pepper out of the


    car.


    Josie walked over. Upon seeing her, the previously downcast Pepper suddenly perked up, barking


    wildly at Josie. He tried to break free from his leash, eager to leap into her arms.


    She was tackled in a full embrace, unable to contain her joy. She ruffled the dog¡¯s head. ¡°Long time no


    see, Pepper.¡±


    Pepper was even more excited, fluttering in her arms.


    udia watched everything unfold, standing off to the side. ¡°Pepper has never been this affectionate


    with anyone else before.¡±


    Josie teased, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because our maic field is a perfect match. Who knows, I might just be


    its ultimate master.¡±


    There was a pun intended in her statement. udia slightly furrowed her brows. ¡°I¡¯m entrusting it to


    you. You must report its status to me periodically. If anything goes wrong, you know what it means.¡±


    Josie¡¯s movements slowed down. Her tone suggested significant dissatisfaction with Heather, or at


    least ack of belonging. Could it be that she has noticed something?

 Chapter 955

    Chapter 955


    Josie looked up, a bit surprised. ¡°I¡¯m actually amazed that you¡¯re willing to give me the dog, considering


    the significant conflict between your daughter and me. Aren¡¯t you afraid she¡¯ll cause trouble when she


    finds out?¡±


    It was the end of autumn, with sunlight pouring down and a cool breeze blowing through, gently lifting


    Josie¡¯s hair. udia looked at her as if she were looking at an old friend.


    After a moment, udia turned to Josie and said, ¡°There aren¡¯t many people in this world who truly


    understand me. You are one of them. I don¡¯t want to second-guess or doubt such people. I trust my


    own judgment.¡±


    Josie was taken aback for a moment, then realized that this was an affirmation¡ªan affirmation from


    her own mother.


    Her voice choked up for a moment, but she quickly spoke again, ¡°If therees a day when I do


    something you can¡¯t understand, something that disappoints you, what would you do? Would you hate


    me?¡±


    Upon hearing these words, udia¡¯s lips parted slightly, and after a long moment, she sighed.


    ¡°Perhaps you have your reasons too.¡±


    From udia¡¯s perspective, Josie¡¯s life had been too harsh. Her daughter had brought an end to her


    marriage with Dexter, and now she had no choice but to watch him remarry.


    She felt guilty towards Josie.


    But what udia didn¡¯t know was that these were not the things that Josie felt most aggrieved about.


    Upon hearing udia¡¯s response, Josie understood and led Pepper to the other side.


    At the end of the street, there was a vast expanse of azure sea. Josie¡¯s figure appeared frail and


    delicate. udia looked on and suddenly spoke, ¡°Jo.¡±


    Josie¡¯s back stiffened.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t show up on the fifteenth. Consider it thest favor I¡¯m asking of you.¡±


    When udia uttered these words, even she was surprised. It was as if there was a premonition in the


    air that Josie would definitely show up that day.


    So, she made such a request.


    This time, Josie didn¡¯t turn around or respond. She just walked away slowly, leading the dog.


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    On the way back, the driver, who had been serving the Olsen family for decades, nced at the


    rearview mirror. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask earlier?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± udia closed her eyes to rest.


    ¡°Ask her¡­ why she is here. Our people traced Miss¡¯s ssmate all the way to this ce, and you


    happened to run into her. It¡¯s such a coincidence.¡±


    udia remained silent as she listened. She had wanted to ask the question earlier, but when Josie


    mentioned that she had grown up here, udia just dropped the idea. For a moment, she didn¡¯t know


    whether to call it a coincidence or if she was being too meticulous.


    ¡°Where is Ruby?¡±


    ¡°We couldn¡¯t find her, so we are currently verifying if there¡¯s an error in the clue.¡±


    udia slowly opened her eyes, her vision blurry. ¡°She has already been taken away.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡±


    ¡°Send a team to River City. They must find her for me before the fifteenth.¡±


    ¡­


    Russell Group.


    Dexter¡¯s meetings for the day had finally ended. The secretary¡¯s office staff approached him. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, Ms. Olsen has arrived.¡±


    He flicked his eyelids, his voice slightly cold. ¡°What does she want?¡±


    The other party was taken aback, thinking that Dexter seemed quite indifferent towards his fianc¨¦e.


    Outside the conference room, Heather had been waiting for a long time. Today, she was dressed in a


    white dress, draped with a chic jacket, looking very elegant and dignified. Seeing the figure of the man,


    she approached him with a smile. ¡°Dex, I¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


    Dexter calmly avoided her outstretched hand and walked towards the elevator. ¡°It¡¯s already quitete.


    Why are you here?¡±


    Heather¡¯s face stiffened for a moment, but she quickly smiled again. ¡°I saw the photos sent by the tailor


    this morning. Your suit looks very well-fitting. I came specifically to pick it up and thought I¡¯d wait for you


    to finish work.¡±

 Chapter 956

    Chapter 956


    When Dexter recalled this morning, the image of Josie¡¯s peculiar and irritating expression immediately


    came to mind. It was truly vexing yet vivid.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to personally handle all of this,¡± Dexter spoke as if he was discussing something


    completely mundane, his tone indifferent.


    ¡°No need to worry. One must always pay extra attention to such an important asion,¡± Heather


    replied, her expression remaining unchanged. ¡°Could you give me a ride home? My car broke down


    and the driver took it for repairs.¡±


    In the elevator mirror, the woman¡¯s pleading expression appeared.


    Dexter nced over with an indifferent look, as if he didn¡¯t care. ¡°I¡¯ll have Moses send you.¡±


    The two of them had already reached the parking lot. Upon hearing this, Heather instantly became


    displeased. She wrapped her hands around his arm. ¡°No, I want you to take me. Besides, my father


    has been constantly talking about you.¡±


    Thetter part of her sentence seemed to touch the man¡¯s heart. He neither agreed nor disagreed,


    simply casting a nce at her hands.


    This nce was so intimidating that she instinctively withdrew her hands, her smile tinged with a hint of


    bitterness. ¡°She was there in the photos the tailor sent this morning. Did you give your silent consent?¡±


    She still asked.


    Dexter didn¡¯t react much; he had no intention of exining.


    The two of them got into the same car, and the atmosphere suddenly became tense. Heather felt some


    regret. She carefully studied the man¡¯s profile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m your fianc¨¦e. If the media


    were to catch us, I would be very embarrassed.¡±


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke.


    Dexter rubbed his brow, but all he felt was an intense annoyance at the glimpse of white in his


    peripheral vision.


    ¡°You deliberately embarrassed her. Do you think she won¡¯t retaliate, given her personality?¡± Heather¡¯s


    voice rose slightly. ¡°She was the one who embarrassed me first when she found out about our


    rtionship, yet she had the audacity to¡­¡±


    ¡°Leanne!¡± Dexter cast a nce, his voice deep.


    Heather pursed her lips, regting her breathing.


    There was silence all the way.


    When Heather arrived at Olsen Residence, Dexter did not get out of the car to visit Mark. He simply


    made a turn and left, without noticing the solitary and fragile woman in his rearview mirror.


    Tears filled her eyes. She sniffled, and the softness in her gaze transformed into a fierce determination.


    ¡­


    Pepper was arge breed dog. Even in his old age, he still exuded a vibrant spirit when he was by


    Josie¡¯s side.


    She had never felt this secure before.


    ¡°Pepper, when I raised you as a puppy, you were just this tiny.¡± Josie squatted down, gesturing to it.


    ¡°Back then, I thought that you would protect me once you grew up. You would definitely be an imposing


    figure!¡±


    But then¡­ Josie pondered on the experiences of these past years, her smile faltered for a moment, but


    then she regained her confidence. She patted its head. ¡°But it¡¯s not toote now, right?¡±


    Not far from the road, a ck Maybach was parked. Dexter was sitting in the back seat, witnessing this


    scene.


    The woman squatted down to talk to the dog, her face disying a sense of ease she had never shown


    before.


    The man absentmindedly toyed with the rosary beads in his hand, his gaze almost covetous.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, he finally instructed Moses to step forward.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Josie was startled by the sudden arrival of the vehicle, and so was Pepper, which barked furiously at


    the man lowering the car window.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were calm and indifferent, ¡°Where did this doge from?¡±


    With all her might, Josie pulled Pepper behind her, lying without batting an eye. ¡°I bought it from a dog


    seller. I felt sorry for it. I¡¯m sure Mr. Russell wouldn¡¯t deny me the right to keep a dog.¡±


    The man raised an eyebrow, his gaze falling on the LV dog leash around Pepper¡¯s neck. He enunciated


    each word clearly, ¡°Dog seller.¡±


    Josie also felt guilty, stiffening her neck as she said, ¡°This¡­ this is a counterfeit.¡±

 Chapter 957

    Chapter 957


    She remembered raising this dog as a child, and although Dexter knew about it, he had never seen it.


    Now, after so many years, he had probably forgotten. Moreover, Heather was afraid of revealing the


    truth, so it was unlikely for him to see it.


    That was why she responded with confidence.


    ¡°Do you want to keep it?¡± Dexter rested his hand on the car window.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I keep it? Mason Garden is mine now. You said so yourself.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point in keeping it?¡±


    ¡°Self-defense.¡±


    He didn¡¯t voice his opinion but nced deeply at the worn-out appearance of Pepper and instructed


    Moses to drive on.


    The car sped off, leaving a trail of dust. Josie, leading Pepper, was fuming with anger. ¡°Pepper,¡± she


    said, ¡°this man is our enemy. If you ever see him again, bite him as hard as you can.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Pepper stuck out its tongue, unsure of how much it understood.


    The Maybach pulled up in Mason Garden. Before Dexter got out of the car, he received a response


    from the other end: Mr. Russell, this dog is indeed the one from Olsen Residence. How did it end up


    with Ms. Warren?


    Dexter narrowed his eyes, his expression somber.


    Josie was short of staff at Wavery these days, so she could only leave Pepper at Mason Garden. After


    instructing Julie to take care of it, she then asked, ¡°Where is Mr. Russell?¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Julie¡¯s tone softened, as if there was a glimmer of hope. She quickly said,


    ¡°Mr. Russell went straight to the study as soon as he came back and hasn¡¯te out yet. He must be


    very tired.¡±


    Josie let it be.


    In a moment, Julie came out holding a bowl of soup, signaling her to go.


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡±


    Julie clicked her tongue. ¡°Mrs. Russell, don¡¯t be so rigid. Perhaps, he mighte back if you soften a


    bit.¡±


    Josie wanted tough. ¡°Mrs. Carroll, you should know that he¡¯s going to have another wife in a few


    days.¡±


    Julie was taken aback, then she sighed. ¡°In my heart, you are the only Mrs. Russell.¡±


    A pang of sorrow hit Josie, and she took the soup without revealing what was on her mind, simply


    saying, ¡°Forget it.¡±


    Larry was in the study discussing something with Dexter. There was no one standing guard outside.


    Josie approached the study and was about to knock when she suddenly realized the door was not


    locked, and the voices from inside flowed out.


    ¡°Everything is progressing steadily. The support we¡¯re receiving from Mr. Barrett and Mr. Shaw is


    unprecedented. In fact, you don¡¯t really need to prepare for the worst.¡±


    The man¡¯s voice was deep and resonant. ¡°The waters of Wavery have been muddied. She must not be


    drawn into this.¡±


    Larry quickly replied, ¡°I¡¯ve already notified the airport staff, so there won¡¯t be any hindrances. As for the


    location, you can choose one.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Dexter spoke, as if making a final decision, ¡°Let¡¯s choose Nnica. The


    scenery there is beautiful, and it¡¯s a good ce to live. With what she has, plus what Grandpa and I


    gave her, she can live a worry-free life. Perhaps, she might settle down there after some time.¡±


    As he spoke, his tone softened. ¡°She is capable and resilient enough to thrive anywhere.¡±


    ¡°You really take care of her interests.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity some people don¡¯t appreciate it.¡± Dexter said with a lightugh. ¡°Once I leave, she¡¯ll probably


    hate me to death.¡±


    Josie had been holding the soup for a while, so the tips of her fingers were burning hot.


    ¡°Perhaps Ms. Warren wouldn¡¯t react this way if she knew of your good intentions.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand her,¡± the man¡¯s voice was tender, his tone seemingly sighing.


    After a while, Larry hesitated and said, ¡°But, don¡¯t you suspect¡­¡±


    The voice at the end of the conversation was deliberately lowered. Josie¡¯s phone in her pocket


    vibrated, so she didn¡¯t hear clearly. She took out her phone and indifferently saw the message. It was


    today¡¯s hot topic¡ª


    Liana picked up Dexter from work, and the newlywed couple disyed an intimate demeanor.


    In the photo, the two were walking closely together in the parking lot. Indeed, they looked intimate.

 Chapter 958

    Chapter 958


    When Josie came knocking, Mallory had locked herself in her room, sitting on the floor watching a


    movie. The projector¡¯s light illuminated her face, giving her lips a pale appearance.


    She let out a sigh and ced the food she brought on the ground. ¡°The Mallory I know has never been


    this downcast. Come on, let¡¯s go for a walk.¡±


    She didn¡¯t move, just stared at the screen. After a while, she said, ¡°Zendaya has gone abroad. There


    was a prenuptial agreement, so she won¡¯t receive any property. She will leave with nothing, even


    though the Simmons family¡¯s business has beenrgely taken over by Calvin.¡±


    Considering Calvin¡¯sck of ruthlessness, it was a form of mercy that Zendaya¡¯s life was spared.


    Josie kept up with the news. ¡°Isn¡¯t this a good thing?¡±


    Mallory shook her head. ¡°I still can¡¯t get over it. He actually used his own marriage as a bargaining chip,


    willingly betting his entire life to torment Zendaya. And what about me? I¡¯m just a pawn he willingly


    brought into his grand scheme, perfectly positioned to hinder Zendaya.¡±


    When Mallory thought about Calvin¡¯s ruthless and meticulous n, she felt heartbroken, realizing that


    she was merely a pawn.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how tofort her. In the end, she pulled her up and said with a bitter smile, ¡°Dexter


    is getting married soon. How about you keep mepany and we go for a drink?¡±


    Mallory finally raised her eyes.


    Josie had organized a gathering at the bar, filled with young men. As soon as they walked in, a crowd


    was dancing amidst the vibrant lights. However, what she hadn¡¯t expected was to find Calvin among


    them.


    He was sitting on the sofa, fiddling with a lighter. Upon seeing Josie, he even greeted her, ¡°We meet


    again.¡±


    Josie tugged at the corner of her mouth.


    Mallory turned around and left.


    Calvin stepped forward, and just then, a woman wearing rabbit ears approached him, her snow-white


    chest looking rather seductive.


    ¡°Mr. Barrett!¡±


    Mallory¡¯s first instinct was to retreat, but her hand was tightly grasped. Her hand was sweaty as she


    was shocked to see him.


    Calvin lowered his voice and said, ¡°Don¡¯t embarrass me.¡±


    Mallory couldn¡¯t resist hismand, her eyes still filled with fear and unease.


    The woman with rabbit ears gave them a knowing look. Soon, everyone in the room knew that she was


    Calvin¡¯s new me. But why did she seem somewhat familiar?


    The rabbit ears disappeared into the crowd, while Josie quietly retreated. She sat on the terrace and


    ordered a ss of whiskey.


    Calvin handed Mallory a ss of wine.


    She looked up calmly. ¡°Are you insulting me, Mr. Barrett?¡±


    After all these days, this was the first time Calvin felt flustered. When she called him ¡°Mr. Barrett,¡± there


    was no longer any hint of desire in her voice. She had changed.


    Leaning over, Calvin said, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you whatever you want to know.¡±


    She naively thought that she and he were on equal footing in this game of chess. But in reality, he was


    the mastermind.


    Mallory realized that, deep down, she had developed anticipation and¡­ love for Calvin. He had the


    ability to make her fall for him, yet she had no confidence in herself. This was the root of her agony, the


    original sin of their encounter.


    Calvin always carried himself with grace and elegance. He wiped away her tears. ¡°The past is


    completely over. From now on, there¡¯s only you.¡±


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    It was as if she hadn¡¯t heard him.


    ¡°I want to know this. When you were using me to cause Zendaya pain, did you ever feel a twinge of


    compassion for me?¡±


    Calvin remained silent.


    Mallory was intelligent, and as calm as he was, he would never get emotionally attached to a chess


    piece. And so, she understood.


    Calvin pressed his lips against her bright red ones, looking somewhat bewildered.


    ¡°You like me, and I like you too. Isn¡¯t that enough?¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯ve put me in the most disgraceful position. You could have rejected me outright when we first


    met, but you didn¡¯t. You watched me fall apart bit by bit, Calvin. What right do you have to say you like


    me? Are you even worthy?¡±

 Chapter 959

    Chapter 959


    ¡°And what about you?¡± Calvin slowly spoke up after listening.


    Mallory defiantly lifted her eyes, as if questioning him.


    ¡°Have you ever, even for a moment, stopped scheming against me all these years?¡±


    At the standoff, Josie¡¯s whiskey was already finished. Someone quickly refilled her ss, bringing her


    back to reality.


    ¡°Laura?¡± She eximed in disbelief.


    ¡°Do you still recognize me?¡± Laura, heavily made up, looked enchanting in the shadows. ¡°Calvin is


    having trouble with his girlfriend. What are you doing getting involved?¡±


    Seeing a familiar face, Josie rxed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯ve been busytely and haven¡¯t been able to get


    in touch with you.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Laura waved her hand dismissively. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m not ming you. I thought something had


    happened when you called me in the middle of the night.¡±


    ¡°Where have you juste from?¡±


    ¡°The Olsen family has many social obligations, and currently, I¡¯m the only one who can handle them.


    I¡¯m working around the clock.¡± Laura expressed her frustration, picking up a bottle of wine to pour.


    Josie¡¯s thoughts seemed distant. ¡°How are things with the Olsen family now?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know?¡± Laura instinctively responded, quickly correcting herself. ¡°Well, it¡¯s quite lively.¡±


    Josie thought of Summer and Zach¡¯s identities and began to wonder how much Laura actually knew,


    and whether she should tell her.


    However, before she could speak, she heard Laura ask first, ¡°What happened? Why did you run out in


    the middle of the night? Is Dexter¡­¡±


    Josie pursed her lips.


    She had slipped out quietly tonight. The entire Mason Garden was being watched, so she had


    deliberately dressed in Julie¡¯s clothes to sneak out without making a sound.


    Dexter wanted to send her away. Mason Garden was no longer a ce she could stay. But apart from


    Mason Garden, she couldn¡¯t think of a more suitable ce to go. Therefore, she thought of the


    entertainment venues, where the noise and chaos could best numb her mind.


    Laura understood clearly. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about what happened recently. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to help


    you, but I¡¯m currently in charge of the liaison between the Olsen family and Russell Group. I


    understand that Dexter can¡¯t get out of this unscathed now. So, just leave.¡±


    She looked into Josie¡¯s eyes.


    She also asked her to leave.


    Josie looked somewhat bewildered. ¡°Where am I supposed to go?¡±


    ¡°Go somewhere else. Maybe you should go abroad. Just go anywhere, but don¡¯t stay in Wavery.¡±


    ¡°I refuse to do that.¡± Josie turned to the side, picking up her wine ss once again.


    ¡°Why?¡± Laura asked, ncing in Mallory¡¯s direction. ¡°Calvin¡¯s family is wealthy and powerful. Do you


    think she can make it with him? You and I both know that it¡¯s just wishful thinking. You¡¯re different from


    her. You¡¯ve already achieved what many people can¡¯t in their entire lives. Cut your losses in time, Jo.¡±


    ¡°Laura.¡±


    Josie¡¯s voice was soft, yet her gaze was firm. ¡°I won¡¯t be a deserter.¡±


    Laura parted her lips, all words of persuasion came to an abrupt halt. She revealed a myriad of


    emotions¡ªregret, confusion, and a hint of indignation.


    The light was dim, so Josie didn¡¯t notice everything.


    At this moment, in Mason Garden.


    After taking care of all his affairs, the man emerged from his study. He crossed the master bedroom in


    a few strides, then paused, retraced his steps, and pushed open the door. The room was empty, devoid


    of any human presence.


    His already gloomy face now looked as if it had been dipped in ice. ¡°Mrs. Carroll!¡±


    The middle-aged woman hurried in from the kitchen. ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter tilted his head. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    Julie¡¯s face drained of color. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen her. Um¡­ I had Mrs. Russell deliver your soup, and I


    haven¡¯t seen her since. I thought she was in the study¡­¡±


    The more she spoke, the lower her voice became.


    The chill in Dexter¡¯s demeanor grew inch by inch, his fingertips twirling a string of rosary beads, almost


    crushing them.


    At the bar.


    It seemed that Laura could no longer bear the passage of time. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s about time you go home.


    Could you apany me to the restroom, and then I¡¯ll take you home?¡±

 Chapter 960

    Chapter 960


    Morgan was not in Wavery, and Josie couldn¡¯t think of a better ally than Dexter at the moment. If she


    didn¡¯t return tonight, he would probably turn Wavery upside down to search for her.


    And so, she nodded.


    Before leaving, she wanted to say goodbye to Mallory, but she was nowhere to be found. The waiter


    said, ¡°Are you asking about ourdy boss? The boss has taken her away.¡±


    Josie parted her lips. It seems that Mallory has not lived a tough life in vain all these years, as she has


    gained the approval of a subordinate. But does all this matter to her?


    Dexter believed that he had arranged everything perfectly, all for her benefit. However, these were not


    what she truly desired.


    The bar¡¯s restroom was always crowded. Josie waited outside while fiddling with her phone. As


    expected, a message from Dexter popped up: Do you love running away from home that much?


    Josie didn¡¯t respond. Her fingertips gently caressed the screen as her eyes looked nk.


    Laura was unusually slow. As Josie lowered her gaze, a pair ofrge hands suddenly appeared out of


    nowhere,nding in her line of sight. ¡°Ms. Warren,¡± he eximed, ¡°Yo, what a surprise to run into you


    here.¡±


    Josie looked up, only to find a carefree young man who seemed to be a spoiled rich brat.


    She searched her memory but found no connection. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know who I am?¡± The young man smirked sarcastically. ¡°But I know you. Ah, you¡¯re so


    beautiful. No wonder Dexter can¡¯t let you go.¡±


    A few of hispanions trailed behind him as they moved forward, cornering Josie. ¡°Ever since I saw


    you gracefully dancing in Wavery, I¡¯ve wanted to get to know you,¡± he said.


    ¡°All these years, you¡¯ve been relying on Dexter¡¯s support, offending so many people. Yet, you still


    managed toe out unscathed. Ms. Warren, you¡¯re truly formidable!¡±


    With gritted teeth, he jabbed a finger into Josie¡¯s shoulder, exerting a great deal of force.


    She endured it for a while; then, impatiently, she looked up. ¡°What exactly are you trying to say?¡±


    ¡°Look. This is what a smart woman looks like.¡± The manughed heartily at hispanion, full of


    enthusiasm. ¡°The whole of Wavery knows that Dexter is about to get married while you¡¯ve fallen to


    such a state. You might as well follow me. I want to see what you¡¯re capable of!¡±


    His words were filled with vulgarity.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed deeply as she thought. If Laura didn¡¯t show up, would it be difficult to handle


    things if she decided to take matters into her own hands and give these people a good beating?


    After all, this person appeared to be a spoiled brat from Wavery who seemed to be quite influential.


    While she was thinking, these people had already taken action. ¡°Speak up! Have you gone mute?¡±


    Josie was pushed, and her snow-white shoulder instantly reddened. Her eyes welled up, and in her


    anger, she looked up, only to find herself locked in someone¡¯s gaze.


    The hallway had been cleared at some point. Dexter stood with his back to the light, his silhouette


    slender and strong, exuding an aura of bothnguid ease and sharp intensity.


    Although she wasn¡¯t deliberately hiding, she didn¡¯t expect him to arrive so quickly.


    The person in front of her continued to push and shove her. ¡°Do you really think that staying silent will


    solve everything? Dexter might be able to protect you for now, but can he protect you forever?¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze was distant as she finally spoke, ¡°I can¡¯t guarantee it.¡±


    Content held by N?velDrama.Org.


    Theyughed, ¡°At least there¡¯s some self-awareness.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face remained calm. ¡°Who are you venting for? I¡¯ve never met you before. There aren¡¯t many


    people in my social circle who are around your age and have a grudge against me. Let me guess,


    could it be¡­ Liana?¡±


    The words hit the young man right where it hurt, instantly making him impatient. ¡°If I want to hit you, I¡¯ll


    hit you. You don¡¯t have Dexter to back you up now, so just take it!¡±


    After he finished speaking, he raised his hand and wanted to p her across the face.


    However, a hand appeared out of nowhere, blocking all his actions.

 Chapter 961

    Chapter 961


    Moses¡¯ grip was firm and forceful, causing the man to let out an immediate shriek. He turned his head


    to see a stranger¡¯s face, which instantly angered him, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Moses showed a look of disdain, tilting his head in a gesture. ¡°Care to step outside and show me what


    you¡¯re capable of?¡±


    The man winced in pain but remained defiant. ¡°So, you¡¯re her knight in shining armor, huh? Good for


    you, Josie. There¡¯s no shortage of fools around you. I wonder if Dexter knows about this.¡±


    Josie raised her hand and rubbed her forehead.


    The paparazzi by the man¡¯s side gently nudged his arm, signaling him to turn around.


    The person seemed to sense that something was off about the atmosphere, a chill running down their


    spine. They turned around in surprise and then frozepletely.


    ¡°D-Dexter¡­¡± Even before the name was fully pronounced, the voice trailed off.


    The clich¨¦ of a hero saving a damsel in distress¡­ Josie would have been moved by that two years


    ago. However, now it was different.


    In the backseat of the Maybach, the air was thick with the stench of cheap alcohol. From behind came


    the pitiful cries of someone being beaten up, causing Josie to tighten her shawl around her.


    ¡°How did you know I was here?¡±


    Dexter lifted his gaze. ¡°How many friends do you have in Wavery?¡±


    Josie was taken aback for a moment, then she returned to her senses, chuckling. ¡°Yes, it seems like no


    one in this world understands me better than you do.¡±


    The man looked up, gazing at her profile. ¡°How much did you hear?¡±


    ¡°Not much. I heard you¡¯re nning to send me abroad. Nnica, huh? Indeed, it¡¯s a great ce.¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice carried a hint of fatigue andziness. ¡°I can protect you today, but I may not be


    able to do so in the future. The days toe will be more dangerous than today.¡±


    Josie listened and looked out the window.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The woman¡¯s profile was superior, her gaze particrly resilient and independent. ¡°Even if you hadn¡¯t


    come today, I would have found a way to escape.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s Laura.¡±


    A cold smirk appeared on Dexter¡¯s lips. ¡°Where is she, then?¡±


    A single question stumped Josie, and she fell silent. Yes, so much time had passed, and Laura hadn¡¯t


    appeared. Where could she have gone?


    Before she could react, Dexter gripped her wrist, forcing her to look at him. ¡°As long as you¡¯re willing, I


    can pave a bigger and better path for you. You can do anything you want. You don¡¯t have to be


    confined in Wavery.¡±


    The man¡¯s gaze was too intense. One could even say it brooked no argument.


    ¡°I believe in you, Dexter,¡± Josie said calmly. ¡°If you can create a new world for me, I trust you.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to. Everything I have is in Wavery¡ªmy job, my friends, my resources. I don¡¯t want to


    give it all up.¡±


    ¡°All of these can be regained.¡±


    ¡°What about the feelings?¡± Josie responded quickly, watching as Dexter¡¯s expression subtly darkened.


    ¡°What feelings?¡±


    Josie paused. A slight smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. ¡°I was talking about friendship. What


    did you think I meant?¡±


    Seeing his face quickly turn sour, Josie felt a lump in her throat. She took a few deep breaths before


    asking, ¡°What¡¯s your n if you send me abroad? Marry Heather and then sneak off to Nnica to


    meet me in secret?¡±


    She looked at his expression and added, ¡°Or should we say, is this where we part ways?¡±


    The following sentence shattered the man¡¯s psychological defenses. A surge of resentment welled up


    within him. He grabbed Josie¡¯s head, pulled it close to his own, and drawled, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it.¡±


    Josie trembled in his arms. ¡°You still want me to be your lover.¡±

 Chapter 962

    Chapter 962


    Their breaths intertwined. The man¡¯s presence was overwhelming, and she had nowhere to hide.


    ¡°Follow the path I¡¯veid out for you, and if you wish to return, two years, no, at most one year, I can


    have you back in Wavery.¡±


    Dexter lowered his head, gazing at her for a long time. ¡°Jo, over the years, you should understand me.


    I am not just a lover to you. Can you trust me?¡±


    The gentle and affectionate words trapped Josie, leaving her somewhat bewildered. ¡°Living alone in a


    foreignnd, as the third party intruding on your marriage, you might as well kill me,¡± she said.


    As soon as these words were spoken, Dexter exerted even more force, leaving no room for restraint.


    He leaned down and bit her lips hard. Their lips and teeth shed, drawing blood from both of them


    and filling the air with a metallic taste.


    Dexter was unwilling to let go.


    Josie began to struggle wildly, fiercely pounding on his shoulders. He stood still as a mountain. After a


    while, she finally gave up, copsing weakly into his arms.


    ¡°You¡¯re really too much¡­ always putting me in a dilemma.¡±


    ¡°When we divorced, I left you with a property in Nnica and a farm. Everything there has been


    arranged, so you won¡¯t have to worry about anything. If you wish to continue working in design, Mr.


    Peeple will make the necessary arrangements.¡±


    He spoke slowly, which reminded Josie of his own words when he bribed Ruby.


    Only then did she understand how awkward it was.


    ¡°As for your father, I will continue to work with the senior police officer to search for him. As soon as


    there¡¯s any news, you¡¯ll be the first to know.¡±


    ¡°Russell Group¡¯s situation is murky. Now that it¡¯s entangled with the Olsen family, it could copse at


    any moment. Josie, believe me, I truly have your best interests at heart.¡±


    It was rare to hear Dexter speak his heart out. He used to be forever cold and restrained, never sharing


    his ns with her. But now, he was beingpletely open and honest.


    Josie lowered her gaze, focusing on the string of rosary beads on his wrist. ¡°What about after we get


    married?¡±


    ¡°This marriage willst at most a year. Russell Group will certainly be able to escape from the current


    situation.¡±


    ¡°What I¡¯m asking is about you and Heather.¡±


    She continued, ¡°Will you two share a bed? Will you travel with her? Will you set off fireworks with her


    on New Year¡¯s? Will you ensure she has no worries as Mrs. Russell? Will you take care of her parents


    out of love for her? Dexter, will you?¡±


    Josie asked quickly and sharply. As she did, a flurry of images shed through her mind, all of them


    fragments of moments she had once shared with this man.


    A tumultuous wave of emotions washed over Dexter¡¯s face. He almost crushed the woman¡¯s wrist in his


    grip. He wanted to respond, yet he found himself unable to utter a word.


    Josie smiled forcefully. ¡°See¡­ You will.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t sleep with her.¡±


    ¡°How would I know if you would?¡± Josie nced at his lower abdomen. The intimate contact just now


    made her aware of the changes in his body.


    ¡°I understand you, as well as your desires.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened, a chilling coldness in his eyes. ¡°Only for you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s palm was burning hot, causing her face to instantly flush red. ¡°Let go of me!¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t insist. He let go of her hand but still held onto her waist.


    ¡°No matter what you think, Jo, I won¡¯t let you leave me again, even if it means imprisonment.¡±


    Such resolve made Josie want to flee, but she knew that there was no room for negotiation once


    Dexter made a decision. She took a deep breath.


    ¡°Let go of me first.¡±


    Hepletely backed off.


    ¡°Take me for a drive,¡± she suddenly said.


    It was getting quitete, and dawn was about to break. There weren¡¯t many cars on the road.


    Dexter frowned after hearing her words. ¡°You¡¯ve locked the car. I can¡¯t get out, so don¡¯t worry.¡±Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

 Chapter 963

    Chapter 963


    Moses ceased his beating and jogged over. He nced at Josie leaning against the car. ¡°That guy has


    learned his lesson. He won¡¯t dare to cause trouble for at least six months.¡±


    Dexter stood in the night, extending his hand. ¡°Car keys.¡±


    With a sigh, Moses btedly found and handed over the car keys. Dexter turned and got into the car.


    Josie headed towards the passenger seat, but before she left, she whistled at Moses. ¡°You should


    have that eye checked out by a doctor.¡±


    Previously, she had sshed spicy water on him, and it was still red now.


    It had been a long time since Josie had really taken a good look at this city.


    Dexter always drove at high speeds. In his youth, he was fond of thrilling activities such as racing,


    mountain climbing, and gambling. He indulged in all of these without exception. However, after taking


    over Russell Group, he had no choice but to be moreposed, and many of his hobbies were


    left untouched.


    Josie propped up her face, gazing intently at the profile of the man in the driver¡¯s seat.


    ¡°I grew up in Wavery when I was just a teenager. Ipleted my middle then immediately started


    working. And then, I met you. This city has witnessed everything about me,¡± she narrated slowly.


    ¡°A mere decade or so is not enough to encapste a lifetime.¡±


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    After hearing that, Josie nodded. ¡°But I won¡¯t have another decade like this.¡±


    The vehicle passed by the best junior and senior high school in Wavery. Dexter had once studied and


    graduated from there. The current decor waspletely different from before. Josie looked out the


    window. ¡°Ipleted my high school here. Back then, the school was divided into two groups. One


    was the aristocrats and the wealthy, and the other was poor students like us who were desperately


    studying.¡±


    She calcted the time. When she had just started school, Dexter had already skipped grades and left


    the school. It was fate¡¯s design that their paths never crossed again.


    Dexter¡¯s slender hands were sped on the steering wheel, asionally ncing over, his expression


    somber.


    ¡°Back then, we were poor at home, and my stepmother despised me, thinking I was a burden to their


    family. Only Paul was kind to me. He would attend parent-teacher meetings for me, always


    exceptionally proud,¡± Josie said with a smile. ¡°During those impoverished days, I often wondered, if my


    biological parents knew about my situation, would they feel heartbroken for me? After the university


    entrance exams, I took a part-time job at a supermarket to earn some money. I was worried about both


    passing and failing the exams, as my family couldn¡¯t afford either oue. Looking back, it was indeed


    a very long summer vacation.¡±


    The Maybach sped along the open road, with Dexter unconsciously pressing harder on the elerator.


    He remembered the year of the university entrance exam. That was because of Summer¡¯s relentless


    pursuit, and he had returned from abroad once to pick her up after school. As the students in their


    uniforms came rushing toward him, he wondered what he was thinking at that time.


    He wondered if Leanne was among these people. How was she doing? Was she struggling a lot?


    The vehicle passed by Wavery University, the only university in the country built by the sea.


    ¡°Fortunately, I was admitted with a full schrship. I just had to earn my own living expenses,¡± Josie


    said, still feeling a sense of pride. ¡°However, fate has yed its fair share of jokes on me. My first love


    left me, and Paul had a car ident. Since then, I¡¯ve had no life, only survival.¡±


    In the end, she wore a bitter smile, looking at Dexter. What a handsome man he was, a man who grew


    up in luxury, forever strong and confident.


    Even more astonishing was that he was the bright young man who once grew up with her.


    ¡°Back then, I desperately wished for someone like you toe and rescue me.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes flickered as he subtly shifted his gaze. After a moment, he said, ¡°The journey was


    complicated, but I made it here, didn¡¯t I?¡±

 Chapter 964

    Chapter 964


    Indeed, he finally arrived, just a littleter than expected.


    The car stopped at the end of the road, where the vast sea stretched out before them. The sky was


    dim, making it difficult to see the path ahead.


    ¡°I want to get out and take a walk.¡±


    Dexter remained silent.


    ¡°I want to see the sea, Dexter.¡±


    Seeing that there were hardly any people or cars around, he finally decided to unlock the central


    control.


    Josie stepped out of the car and walked to the railing. She gazed out at the vast expanse of the sea,


    feeling a pang of pain in her heart. Dexter followed behind her.


    Lately, she had been wearing a lot of white. In that moment, her long hair was lifted by the sea breeze,


    creating a picture of youthful sorrow.


    She suddenly said, ¡°Dexter, I promise you.¡±


    Dexter watched her retreating figure, feeling a touch of restlessness in his heart, clearly unexpected.


    ¡°You¡¯ve done so much for me these past two years, and I¡¯m aware of it all. It¡¯s just Nnica, right? I¡¯ll


    go.¡± She turned around, looking into his eyes.


    He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯ve figured it out. I can¡¯t let go of these years with you, nor can I let go of the resources you


    can provide me. It¡¯s just one year, right? I can wait. Consider it a gift to you.¡±


    Dexter watched as Josie¡¯s expression remained normal, even somewhat relieved. He found it hard to


    believe.


    At a stalemate, a couple appeared on the beach. They were likely students from a nearby university.


    One held a trash bag, the other a pair of tongs, picking up garbage. They walked and talked, their


    youthfulness radiating around them.


    As they approached, they were somewhat surprised to see people standing on the fence.


    The girl looked at Josie and Dexter somewhat shyly, murmuring, ¡°You are so beautiful, and your


    boyfriend is really handsome.¡±


    Josie smiled, pulling out her phone from her pocket. ¡°Could you take a picture of us?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


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    Dexter frowned, but Josie was already holding his hand. ¡°Give me a smile.¡±


    The man and woman in the camera both exuded a mature aura, especially Dexter, whose usually


    serious face was graced by a hint of a smile. The girl quickly captured this moment, then said, ¡°Could


    you two get a bit closer, please?¡±


    Josie felt somewhat uneasy, but Dexter had already raised his hand, pulling her into his embrace by


    her shoulders. His voice was deep. ¡°Go ahead and take the picture.¡±


    With a click, this became the only photo of the two together, aside from the one on their marriage


    certificate.


    The girl¡¯s face lit up with joy, ¡°It¡¯s really beautiful.¡± Before leaving, she returned the phone and


    whispered, ¡°Wishing you a long andsting love!¡±


    Josie smiled, watching their departing figures. She casually said, ¡°Do you think we could have been like


    them if we had known each other in university?¡±


    Dexter followed her train of thought and imagined the scene if Liana hadn¡¯t gotten lost.


    She was undoubtedly full of youth, and he was filled with youthful spirit. They would have felt attracted


    to and admired each other, eventually starting a romantic rtionship in university. After graduation,


    they would have gotten married and had children, leading a simple yet loving life.


    Josie obviously thought of it, too. She shed a bitter smile. ¡°It¡¯s a pity there are no ¡®ifs¡¯.¡±


    ¡°There is¡­¡± Dexter instinctively reached out but grasped at thin air. Josie withdrew her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go


    back.¡±


    She seemed emotionally stable, as if she really agreed to go to Nnica with him. There was no


    resistance, not a hint of defiance.


    Dexter originally didn¡¯t believe it, but Josie just followed him back to Mason Garden and then fell asleep


    in the master bedroom.


    The woman¡¯s face was serene and gentle in sleep, revealing no trace of cunningness. Dexter quietly


    left the room and made a phone call. ¡°Make the arrangements,¡± he said.


    On the other end of the phone, Larry said, ¡°The flights to Nnica are only avable at three in the


    afternoon and seven in the evening. What do you think¡­¡±


    ¡°Seven o¡¯clock, then.¡± After a night of turmoil, he thought she should get some proper rest.

 Chapter 965

    Chapter 965


    As soon as the door closed, the woman lying in bed immediately opened her eyes.


    She got up and grabbed her mobile phone, then retrieved a SIM card from the drawer and inserted it.


    After restarting the phone, a flurry of messages instantly appeared.


    Justin had sent the most messages.


    One of them read: ¡°There¡¯s someone following us. I¡¯ll take Ruby on the train.¡±


    Another message said: ¡°We¡¯ve arrived in Rivodia. I apanied her home, and now she¡¯s searching


    for evidence.¡±


    This was followed by another message that said: ¡°There are people watching you in Rivodia too. How


    many groups have you managed to upset?¡±


    Returning might not be as easy as we hoped. Try your best toe back before the 15th.


    Today was already the 13th. Josie responded with a simple ¡°received¡± and then made a phone call.


    The line was busy for a long time on the other end, causing her to frown as she started to deal with


    other messages.


    Everything seemed normal.


    She walked to the balcony and noticed that the security in Mason Garden had not decreased, but


    rather increased. Her two consecutive escapes had made Dexter more vignt.


    Josie tried calling again, but no one answered. She simply gave up and decided to lie down on the bed


    to sleep. And once she did, she fell asleep for real.


    She slept until the afternoon when Julie knocked on her door to wake her up. ¡°Mrs. Russell, it¡¯s time to


    wake up.¡±


    Josie opened her eyes and immediately reached for her phone. Morgan had returned her call, but she


    had missed it, so he sent her a message instead.


    After reading it, she responded to Julie, ¡°Coming.¡±


    It seemed that as the time drew near, the number of guards in Mason Garden had decreased, leaving it


    rather deserted and lifeless.


    Julie made her a meal. ¡°The flight is long, so you need to eat something.¡±


    Even Julie knew about it.


    Josie sat at the dining table, not seeing Dexter anywhere. All that was left was a neatly packed bag


    without any luggage in sight.


    Julie quickly said, ¡°What Mr. Russell means is that once we get to the ce, we will start everything


    anew.¡±


    The phone on the side vibrated. Josie nced at it and picked it up, remaining silent.


    Dexter¡¯s voice came through from the other end of the line. ¡°Let me know when you¡¯ve arrived safely.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face went numb. After a while, he finally said, ¡°You don¡¯t even want to see me for thest time?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see each other again soon.¡±


    She tugged at her lips, only responding after a few seconds. ¡°Indeed.¡±


    We¡¯ll see each other again soon.


    After hanging up the phone, Josie began to eat, simultaneously instructing Julie, ¡°I need to bring my


    laptop too. Could you please pack it for me?¡±


    Julie was taken aback. ¡°Mr. Russell suggested that¡ª¡±


    ¡°The file with my drawings is inside. I can¡¯t rece it.¡±


    After a moment of hesitation, Julie decided it wouldn¡¯t matter if she brought theputer along, so she


    agreed.


    On the top floor of Russell Group.


    The night grew darker, and the lights from above were shining brightly. Dexter stood in front of the floor-


    to-ceiling window, his aura bing increasingly intense.


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    Zachariah sat at the back, leisurely sipping his tea. ¡°If you ask me,¡± he said, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t let her leave.


    Let her stay in Wavery at Olsen Residence. I¡¯m quite curious to see what kind of storm she could


    create.¡±


    Calvin chuckled. ¡°That wouldn¡¯t just be a bloodbath. It could turn the entire Wavery upside down.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face grew darker and darker. Larry approached him cautiously. ¡°Mr. Russell, you haven¡¯t


    rested for a whole day and night. You should get some sleep. It¡¯s going to be a long journey to


    Nnica.¡±


    ¡°Leave me alone.¡±


    Larry had no choice but to bow his head and step back. He signaled to Zachariah and Calvin, who


    understood and waved their hands in response.


    At six in the evening, Josie was taken to the airport. She had no belongings with her, only a bag. Before


    she left, she wrote a note: ¡°Mrs. Carroll, after I leave, please contact this person and make sure Pepper


    is sent to her.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    As the vehicle passed by Russell Group, Josie looked up, but the building was too tall to see anything.

 Chapter 966

    Chapter 966


    The airport was always bustling with people, a multitude of individuals pushing their luggage back and


    forth, hurrying towards their own destinies.


    Escorted by her bodyguards, or rather, under their control, Josie made her way towards the VIP waiting


    room, anticipating the arrival of seven o¡¯clock.


    Outside, a gentle rain began to fall, the droplets hitting the ss window as if they could sense her


    mncholic mood. It was strange, Josie thought, that she could still feel sadness even at this point.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, it¡¯s time to board,¡± the bodyguard handed over the boarding pass.


    Josie lowered her gaze and epted it, then proceeded to the boarding bridge. Her seat was


    surrounded by bodyguards, all arranged by Dexter. They would personally escort her to Nnica.


    The flight attendant was announcing today¡¯s weather and flight duration over the loudspeaker,


    reminding passengers to turn off their mobile phones. Following the instructions, Josie lowered her


    head to switch off her phone, then leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes for a short nap.


    The bodyguards exchanged nces, surprised by herpliance, which only made them more tense.


    The airne began to move, hovering at a low altitude, and all the dust settled. However, just as it was


    about to soar into the clouds, a portly man in the front seat suddenly stood up and shouted loudly, ¡°I


    want to report! There¡¯s a bomb on the ne!¡±


    The cabin was suddenly thrown into chaos, with people stirring and screams ovepping. The flight


    attendant hurriedly stepped forward to calm everyone down.


    The bodyguard abruptly stood up, stepping forward to stop the man¡¯s actions. However, the man¡¯s eyes


    were red, and he kept repeating, ¡°Don¡¯t take off, don¡¯t take off. There¡¯s a bomb on the ne! We¡¯re


    going to die!¡±


    The police arrived swiftly, detaining the individual and causing another wave of chaos.


    Josie slowly opened her eyes. Her expression was surprisingly calm.


    Themotion was unending. The ne hadnded again. After a stalemate that bodyguards


    returned from their fruitless negotiations. They approached Josie. She turned her head and asked,


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Air traffic control. There¡¯s been a bomb threat reported. We need to conduct a search, which will likely


    cause a dy in takeoff.¡±


    All passengers on the ne need to disembark for an investigation.


    Josie didn¡¯t bother to hide her smirk. ¡°This counts as force majeure, doesn¡¯t it? Tell Mr. Russell not to


    me me for this.¡±


    The bodyguard felt a chill run down his spine. He never expected this kind of chaos. It was almost as if


    it had been prearranged.


    After disembarking the ne, the police began to inspect each individual. This was the only chance to


    separate from the bodyguard.


    Josie stepped forward first. After the inspection, she looked troubled and said to the policewoman, ¡°I¡­


    I¡¯m on my period. Can I please go to the restroom? If you¡¯re worried, you cane with me!¡±


    Seeing this, the bodyguard behind immediately wanted to follow but was stopped by the policewoman.


    The bodyguard could only watch as Josie walked further and further away. Sensing trouble, he


    immediately took out his phone to call Dexter.


    Once Josie had finished up there, he saw the policewoman receive a phone call. Her expression subtly


    changed. Then, she nced at Josie and said, ¡°You can leave now.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much.¡±


    Leaving from the direction of the restroom, Josie walked straight out of Terminal 3. The streets outside


    were bustling with people. Taxis and private cars flowed like a river. She walked to the end of the street


    and stood for a while, calcting how long it would take for her bodyguard to find her.


    She wanted to escape Dexter¡¯s surveince. She couldn¡¯t force her way out, so she could only


    outsmart him. Leaving the ne in broad daylight was the only way. Josie breathed in the fresh air. She


    had to admit that Morgan was incredibly meticulous.


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    However, as time passed, Josie did not see the vehicle arranged by Morgan. She began to sweat


    nervously, about to make a call, when suddenly, a Chevrolet stopped in front of her. Her eyes lit up as


    she saw the back door open and several strong men step out.


    ¡°You guys¡­¡±

 Chapter 967

    Chapter 967


    Before she could finish her sentence, someone from behind covered her mouth and swiftly subdued


    her. The men exchanged nces and moved her to the back seat.


    Josie¡¯s head throbbed with excruciating pain, as if it were about to split open. Her hands and feet were


    bound, and her eyes and mouth were covered. The vehicle traversed a bumpy road, enveloped in an


    eerie silence that could suffocate a person.


    Josie was consumed by utter confusion. Who were these people? What did they want?


    The only response she received was the sound of the vehicle¡¯s jostling.


    The profound darkness sent shivers down her spine, leaving her devoid of any sense of security. They


    were neither Morgan¡¯s nor Dexter¡¯s people. There was no reason for them to treat her in such a


    manner. So, who could they be¡­


    Josie had made too many enemies. She didn¡¯t even know which faction was behind this. In this


    moment, she finallyprehended the significance of Dexter¡¯s words¡ªthings would be more


    perilous in the future.


    Josie fought to maintain herposure. She didn¡¯t even have to wait for the future to unfold. As soon


    as she disembarked from the ne arranged by Dexter, she was kidnapped.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, the vehicle finally came to a halt. The kidnappers forcefully


    pulled her out of the car. From the sounds of it, they traversed a gravel path.


    The coldness that greeted her face was mingled with the scent of nature, indicating that this ce must


    be quite remote.


    ¡°Mmm¡­¡± Once they arrived, Josie was roughly thrown to the ground, emitting a stifled groan.


    The kidnapper showed no mercy, as the hemp rope cut into her wrists and ankles, leaving them raw


    and red. It was a pitiful sight to behold.


    She heard the kidnapper¡¯s voice inquire, ¡°What do we do now?¡±


    ¡°Go and inform everyone. It¡¯s about time.¡±


    ¡°How long are we supposed to keep an eye on her?¡±


    ¡°Make the call first.¡±


    The sounds echoed, suggesting to Josie that this must be an abandoned construction site. They


    walked away, and the sounds faded.


    She struggled for a moment, but couldn¡¯t free herself. Eventually, she gave up andy on the ground,


    panting heavily.


    After a while, the kidnapper returned and tied Josie to a chair. He removed the cloth that had covered


    her eyes and mouth. Blinded by the intense light, she instinctively squinted.


    ¡°Sweetie, stay right here. We¡¯re not after your life!¡±


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    Leading the group was a bald man who exuded fierceness and intimidation. He gently ran the tip of his


    knife across Josie¡¯s cheek, remarking, ¡°You truly are quite attractive.¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°Who¡¯s pulling your strings?¡±


    The bald man, Johnny, chuckled, tilting his head back to nce at the sky. ¡°Hmm, it seems like a storm


    is brewing.¡±


    This ce truly was an abandoned construction site. Without a roof, the icy rain pelted her face,


    sobering her.


    ¡°Arnold? Was it Arnold who ordered you to do this!?¡± she eximed in disbelief.


    Johnny, the bald man, disyed impatience.


    Upon assessing the situation, Josie quickly dismissed the idea. It can¡¯t be. Arnold is currently in a


    precarious position, wanted everywhere. It¡¯s impossible for him to return to Wavery and carry out such


    a conspicuous act¡­


    Then who could it be?


    The kidnappers paid her no mind. They simply went to a corner with a roof overhang and sat down to


    y cards.


    After a while, a torrential downpour arrived, apanied by a cold wind that drenched Josie, who was


    exposed. She had nowhere to seek shelter, and she couldn¡¯t stop herself from shivering uncontrobly,


    her face turning pale.


    The rain had been falling for two hours, and Josie had nearly fainted several times. Each time, she


    would pinch her own thigh to force herself to stay awake. She had been too confident, not anticipating


    that a third party was observing her.


    Once the rain had subsided slightly, Johnny approached with an umbre to check on her. The young


    lad asked, ¡°Boss, what if she dies from exposure?¡±


    Johnny reprimanded, ¡°Is she dead yet?¡±


    Once again, he used the tip of his knife to lift Josie¡¯s chin, observing her barely hanging on. ¡°You¡¯re


    quite resilient.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and spat at him.


    ¡°Fuck you!¡±

 Chapter 968

    Chapter 968


    The man immediately lost his temper, pressing the tip of his knife against her throat. ¡°I¡¯ve given you


    face!¡±


    The young man quickly intervened, ¡°Calm down, Boss! It¡¯s not right for us to act like this when the other


    party hasn¡¯t said anything.¡±


    This statement abruptly pulled Johnny back from his thoughts. He red at Josie, seething. ¡°You¡¯d


    better hang in there. I won¡¯t let you die that easily!¡±


    Rainwater trickled down Josie¡¯s cheeks. ¡°If you¡¯re so capable, let your bosse and kill me. Does he


    dare?¡±


    ¡°Enough with the nonsense! You should have been dead long ago!¡± The bald man kicked her chair and


    returned to ying cards under the eaves.


    The rain had lessened, but the cold wind of early winter blew through, causing Josie to shiver


    uncontrobly.


    It seems like this bald guy has a particr disdain for me, and his boss probably dislikes me, too. So,


    who in Wavery has such a strong dislike for me?


    She narrowed her eyes.


    On the top floor of Russell Group.


    Dexter had been waiting for a long time without any news of the ne taking off, so he ordered Larry to


    check on it.


    ¡°What¡¯s the rush? Nothing can go wrong. You specifically didn¡¯t let her take a private ne. Isn¡¯t it


    because you were worried about her being too ostentatious and getting noticed? Commercial flights


    always take off.¡± Calvin sat leisurely to one side, looking quite interested.


    Zachariah added, ¡°What about the weather?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a light rain.¡±


    With every word they spoke, Dexter¡¯s face darkened a shade. Suddenly, Larry rushed in, panting and


    struggling to form words. ¡°M-Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression changed dramatically. ¡°Speak!¡±


    ¡°Someone falsely imed there was a bomb on the ne, so the flight didn¡¯t take off.¡±


    Larry was usually calm all year round, and it was rare to see him this flustered. Dexter was waiting for


    his next sentence.


    ¡°After getting off the ne, the person was nowhere to be found.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Calvin and Zachariah exchanged nces. No longer in the mood for tea, they both turned their


    attention to Dexter.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have the club staff look into it right away.¡± Calvin left the office to make a call.


    ¡°Could she have run away on her own?¡± Zachariah frowned.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid that it¡¯s not Ms. Warren who wants to run away, but rather¡­¡± Larry¡¯s voice trailed off as he


    carefully observed Dexter.


    The man¡¯s palm mmed down on the table with force, his eyes and brows radiating an intense chill.


    ¡°Search, call the police, and mobilize the Russell family¡¯s people. Even if we have to turn Wavery


    upside down, we must find her!¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ Yes!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Peeple,¡± Dexter called out to stop the person, his eyes grim. ¡°If it can¡¯t be found, you¡¯ll be the one


    to answer for it!¡±


    Larry nearly stumbled as he rushed out of the office.


    Zachariah¡¯s brows furrowed deeply. He sighed and patted Dexter¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Perhaps it¡¯s


    just a little game she¡¯s ying.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face was taut, an image of her unexpectedly obedient behavior surfacing in his mind. I should


    have known. How could she have agreed to go abroad so easily? So, she was waiting here all along!


    A flicker of panic shed in his eyes. As long as she was safe, everything else was insignificant. His


    only fear was her encountering danger¡­


    The rain outside was getting heavier. Dexter looked at the pitch-ck sky outside, a sense of


    foreboding washing over him.


    At an abandoned construction site.


    Josie endured the cold, making it through until nearly dawn.


    She was in a state of both cold and heat, likely running a fever, and could faint at any moment.


    The sky was gradually brightening, and the rain had stopped. Josie squinted her eyes, trying hard to


    stay awake. Just then, she saw a figure slowly approaching. The person was holding an umbre,


    moving with an elegant and leisurely grace.


    The figure was a woman.


    Johnny and hispanions immediately stepped forward and said something, after which the woman


    turned to look at Josie.

 Chapter 969

    Chapter 969


    It appeared that this individual was the mastermind, the leader.


    Summoning all her strength, Josie tightly clenched her hand, regaining her rity. She straightened up


    and opened her eyes, attempting to discern the identity of the person.


    After listening to Johnny¡¯s report, the woman finally approached Josie.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite resilient,¡± came a familiar voice. Josie could now clearly see the face of the person


    speaking.


    That face bore a striking resemnce to her own. It wasn¡¯t exactly a beautiful face, but rather,


    somewhat in. However, their eyes were both exceptionally bright and clear, radiating a stubborn


    resilience.


    ¡°Heather!¡±


    Josie merely furrowed her brows, seemingly unsurprised, as she continued to gaze at Heather.


    Heather folded her umbre and stood in front of her with a puzzled expression. ¡°You don¡¯t seem


    surprised.¡±


    ¡°I had a hunch,¡± Josie responded with a smirk.


    In Wavery, no one wished for Josie to disappear more than Heather did.


    ¡°The rain was heavyst night, but I slept quite well. How about you?¡± Heather looked at Josie with a


    meaningful gaze.


    Thetter was drenched from head to toe, her face pale, lookingpletely disheveled.


    Just seeing her in that state brought joy to Heather.


    ¡°As you can see.¡±


    Heather had been observing me all this time. How much does she know? Josie wondered.


    Heather leisurely strolled around her, making a full circle. ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect Dexter to let you go


    abroad. He has made thorough ns for you. You¡¯re truly fortunate.¡±


    Ever since her unsessful attempt to teach Josie a lesson at the bar, which ended with Dexter


    rescuing Josie, she had been keeping tabs on her. When she discovered that Josie was heading to the


    airport, she felt relieved. However, what she didn¡¯t expect was that Josie didn¡¯t leave.


    ¡°As you wished, I didn¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°If you did go, does that mean you¡¯ll be a secret lover?¡± Heather bent down, looked at Josie, and


    slowly added, ¡°You really have no shame.¡±


    Yet, even when scolded like this, Josie didn¡¯t get angry. She looked at Heather with a gaze full of


    contempt, as if she was looking at trash, seemingly quite puzzled.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    She suddenly let out a soft chuckle.


    Heather¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Why are youughing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯mughing at the audacity of you calling me shameless when it¡¯s clearly you. How can you have the


    nerve to scold me so confidently?¡± Josie adjusted her posture, looking utterly fed up. ¡°Even if you kill


    me today, I will always be Dexter¡¯s first wife. After marrying you, he still wants to keep me as a mistress


    tucked away in a luxurious house. That¡¯s an indisputable fact.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    These words clearly provoked Heather. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to hold back.


    ¡°You¡¯re too full of yourself, Josie. Who do you think you are? You¡¯re nothing more than a third party who


    interfered with me and Dex. If I hadn¡¯t gotten lost back then, would you even matter?¡±


    When she spoke those words, she was extremely confident, so confident that it left Josie


    dumbfounded. It was as if she had gone mad,pletely immersing herself in the identity of Liana. It


    was probably because she had worn the mask for so long that she couldn¡¯t take it off anymore¡­


    It seemed that Arnold¡¯s sudden incident left him no time to inform her that he had already discovered


    her true identity. That must be why she was speaking so boldly.


    This could be considered a good thing.


    Josie¡¯s smile widened. ¡°So, why did you kidnap me? You¡¯re about to get married. Are you so insecure


    that you think I¡¯d try to steal him from you?¡±


    ¡°Enough, Josie! Stop pretending you don¡¯t care. I can¡¯t stand your high and mighty attitude!¡± Heather


    turned around, pulled the knife from Johnny¡¯s hand, and held it to Josie¡¯s face.


    ¡°We¡¯re both the same kind of people, so why do you get all the benefits?¡±

 Chapter 970

    Chapter 970


    Josie found herself forced to tilt her head back, feeling the sharpness of the knife¡¯s tip.


    ¡°Who said we are the same kind of people?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that true?¡± Heather lost all the obedience she usually showed in front of others. Her face was


    stern as she drawled, ¡°We both grew up in the lowest social ss. Why is it that you¡¯re so fortunate to


    have met Dexter first, to live a life of luxury, and even use the status of Mrs. Russell to lecture me?¡±


    Heather always remembered what Josie said when she was Mrs. Russell. She was very kind,


    repeatedly helping Heather out of difficult situations and preventing Summer from troubling her.


    However, Heather felt that this was nothing more than a condescending act of charity.


    If she were Mrs. Russell, she could also say such words.


    Josie now understood. It seemed that all her past advice had been taken as lessons.


    ¡°Is the title of Mrs. Russell so important to you? Even without Dexter¡¯s protection, I have my own


    independent personality. What does it have to do with him?¡±


    ¡°You have everything now, and yet, I despise your hypocritical facade the most.¡± Heather gripped the


    knife handle tightly, wishing she could just sh her, but she didn¡¯t. ¡°Unfortunately for you, you¡¯re about


    to lose it all.¡±


    ¡°What are you going to do¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve juste to understand something.¡± Heather straightened her back. ¡°As long as


    you¡¯re alive, Dex will never look at me the way I want. So, you can¡¯t live any longer.¡±


    When she spoke those words, it was as if she was merely discussing the day¡¯s weather. It was hard to


    imagine that such words coulde from the mouth of such a pure and innocent woman.


    A chill ran down Josie¡¯s spine. ¡°If I die, Dexter will not let you off.¡±


    ¡°He won¡¯t know. I will live on in your stead forever. Everything that is yours will be mine. One day,


    he will fall in love with me, and we will grow old together.¡± Heather¡¯s face lit up with anticipation, almost


    obsessively. ¡°Even if he does find out, what can he do? I am the eldest daughter of the Olsen family,


    his savior in his youth. Could he really retaliate against me?¡±


    She¡¯s gone mad, absolutely mad! Josie couldn¡¯t believe she had be so engrossed in her role to


    be this audacious.


    ¡°Why so anxious? I¡¯m not going to kill you now.¡± Heather looked at Josie condescendingly, her eyes full


    of disgust. ¡°I¡¯ll let you witness our grand wedding before sending you on your way.¡±


    Josie remained silent, her hands clenched tightly.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Upon hearing that, Johnny couldn¡¯t help but speak up. ¡°What if something unfavorable happens if the


    situation drags on? If Dexter finds out, everything will be over.¡±


    ¡°This is the abandoned construction site within the Olsen family¡¯s property. It¡¯s remote and hidden. He


    won¡¯t possibly find it,¡± Heather exined, throwing the knife on the ground. ¡°She has a fever. Give her


    some medicine, and don¡¯t let her die.¡±


    ¡°O-Okay¡­¡±


    Before Heather left, she cast a disdainful nce at the disheveled Josie. ¡°I¡¯m off to rehearse


    tomorrow¡¯s wedding ceremony. You¡¯d better hang in there and witness my grand wedding with Dex.¡±


    It seemed to be her obsession.


    After she left, Josie was given fever-reducing medicine by Johnny. He then applied a hot towel to her


    forehead, his movements somewhat clumsy.


    Her voice was hoarse. ¡°How much did she pay you to work yourselves to death like this?¡±


    ¡°Do you people only see money?¡± Johnny pinched her cheek. ¡°What I¡¯m doing is out of love and


    loyalty!¡±


    It seemed that he must have been Heather¡¯s friend or subordinate in the past to go to such lengths for


    her.


    Her phone had been confiscated, leaving her unable to contact the outside world. She had no idea how


    Justin was faring or why Morgan had disappeared¡­


    Also¡­ Will Dexter¡­ be able to find me?

 Chapter 971

    Chapter 971


    ¡°There¡¯s no sign of her.¡±


    At the top floor of Russell Group, Larry arrived, panting heavily, to deliver his report. ¡°The surveince


    cameras have been destroyed,¡± he said. ¡°Ms. Warren disappeared as soon as she left the airport. Our


    team is currently investigating every suspicious vehicle, but it¡¯s going to take some time.¡±


    While speaking, he barely dared to lift his head. The aura of the man before him was overwhelmingly


    powerful, as if he could obliterate everything.


    Impatience and irritation were etched on Dexter¡¯s face. ¡°What about the investigation about the person


    on the ne?¡±


    ¡°That man imed to have epted money from a stranger who instructed him to say all that. The


    ount was untraceable, and investigations are still ongoing.¡±


    ¡°Whoever sabotaged the airport surveince cameras must be very skilled. It seems this was all


    nned.¡±


    ¡°Who could it be?¡±


    ¡°Morgan.¡±


    Upon hearing this name, Zachariah, who had been standing guard all night, blurted out, ¡°Josie¡¯s


    lapdog?¡±


    However, Morgan¡¯s influence in Rivodia was substantial, and he indeed was someone capable enough


    of assisting Josie in her escape.


    In less than ten minutes, Larry had found Morgan¡¯s private contact information and handed it over to


    Dexter. As he nced down at it, amotion arose from outside the office.


    ¡°Mister, you can¡¯t go in!¡± The secretarial staff couldn¡¯t stop the intruder. Dexter looked up, only to see a


    tall man stride in, his captivating eyes brimming with rage.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    He rushed straight up to Dexter, grabbed him by the cor, and swung a punch. ¡°D*mn you, where


    have you hidden Josie?¡±


    Without a doubt, it was Morgan. Exuding an air of hostility, he was travel-worn, having rushed over


    through the night.


    A punchnded on the side of Dexter¡¯s face, causing blood to ooze out. Dexter raised his hand to wipe


    the corner of his mouth, and upon seeing the trace of blood, he nodded slightly. Immediately, he


    counterattacked, gripping Morgan¡¯s arm and pinning him against the wall. He swiftly threw two


    punches, and soon, blood appeared on Morgan¡¯s face as well.


    ¡°I could have sent her away! You should¡¯ve mind your own business!¡± Dexter rarely struck anyone, but


    when he did, he was ruthless.


    Everyone in the office was flustered. ¡°Mr. Russell!¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t give Morgan any time to react as he rained punches down on him. Blood smeared from


    Morgan¡¯s mouth, but he refused to show weakness. Seizing an opportunity, he turned the tables,


    pinning Dexter beneath him and retaliating in kind.


    ¡°She never wanted to go to Nnica with you! Her home is here, in our country. You don¡¯t understand


    her at all, yet you dare to confine her. If even a single hair on her head is harmed, I won¡¯t spare you!¡±


    Immediately, Zachariah and Larry stepped forward, pulling Morgan away with all their might. ¡°Enough!


    Is this really the time to be discussing this?¡±


    Morgan was severely injured but his rage continued to burn. After he was pulled aside, he red at


    Dexter. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    Dexter was leaning back on the couch. With his cor half-open and his hand stained with blood, he


    exuded a menacing air.


    The fury in his eyes kept building up, as the fact that Morgan could ask such a question meant that


    Josie was not with him.


    Morgan was a smart man. He circled the crowd, scoffing, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me she¡¯s disappeared.¡±


    An eerie silence quickly followed.


    Morgan red at Dexter, cursing out loud, ¡°F*ck!¡±


    Thetter felt his heart sink into a bottomless abyss, as his only hope had vanished, signifying that


    Josie was now in grave danger.


    Dexter lifted his gaze, his voice as cold as ice, ¡°We¡¯re in Wavery. How did she collude with you? You


    better tell me everything.¡±


    It seemed that the two had been in constant contact, and Josie trusted Morgan deeply, enough to


    entrust her fate to him.


    Morgan wiped his face, which was entirely covered in blood.

 Chapter 972

    Chapter 972


    ¡°That¡¯s broadly it. As long as she doesn¡¯t board a ne, she¡¯lle to Rivodia to find me,¡± Morgan


    finished, ncing provocatively at Dexter.


    D*mn Rivodia.


    A faint smile surfaced on Dexter¡¯s face. The thought that her obedience yesterday was all for the


    purpose of eloping with Morgan felt like a knife piercing his heart.


    ¡°The most important thing right now is to find her.¡± Zachariah anxiously nced at Dexter¡¯s expression.


    ¡°Based on what you said, you would have arranged for someone to meet Josie after she left the airport.


    Why didn¡¯t they meet her?¡±


    The topic triggered a look of embarrassment on Morgan¡¯s face. ¡°There was a mix-up in the


    arrangements.¡±


    ¡°Your timing for this mistake couldn¡¯t be more impable,¡± Dexter said with a hint of indifference in his


    voice.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Morgan retorted, ¡°What about you? You can¡¯t even hold onto what¡¯s in your hands.¡±


    Zachariah clicked his tongue. ¡°Do you guys¡­ have any ideas?¡±


    Morgan pulled out a tissue from the desk, decisively wiping away the blood. He spoke deliberately,


    word by word. ¡°This is a question for Mr. Russell. After making so many enemies for her, there must be


    at least one suspect, right? Oh wait, you¡¯re about to get married, where would you find the time?


    Dexter, if I find her, Josie will have nothing to do with you going forward. You¡¯d better know what¡¯s good


    for you!¡±


    Morgan crumpled the tissue into a ball and tossed it at Dexter¡¯s feet. Then, he stormed out of the office


    the office.


    When Calvin entered, he happened to run into the leaving Morgan. Frowning, he asked, ¡°Why is he


    here?¡±


    Zachariah touched the tip of his nose, signaling with his eyes. Calvin then saw the gloomy Dexter


    sitting by the side, his gaze as cold as ice, clearly indicating that strangers were not wee.


    Calvin cleared his throat. ¡°I¡¯ve sent people from the country club to look for her. They will take some


    time to do so.¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    He rubbed his fingers with an indifferent expression, distracted by the thoughts racing in his mind.


    The phone lying beside him rang. Seeing the caller ID showing Heather, Zachariah felt as if he had


    been handed a hot potato. He was in a dilemma, unsure whether to answer or ignore the call.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    When the phone continued to ring, Dexter nced sideways, and the relieved Zachariah answered the


    call and set it aside.


    ¡°Hey, Liana,¡± he said.


    Heather was taken aback for a moment. ¡°Oh, Zachariah? Howe you¡¯re the one who¡¯s answering?


    Where¡¯s Dex?¡±


    ¡°Dax¡­ is busy with something. You can tell me what you need instead.¡± Zachariah lied without batting


    an eye. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Heather let out a sigh, her voice sweet and clear. ¡°Tomorrow is the wedding. We need to go through the


    procedures at the venue. Can you tell Dax for me? I¡¯ll be waiting for him here.¡±


    Zachariah looked toward Dexter, seeking his opinion.


    Dexter¡¯s thin lips pursed as he scrolled through his phone. ¡°Understood.¡± He then hung up.


    With one hand, he unbuttoned his shirt and headed straight into the bathroom inside the lounge.


    By the time he emerged again, his wounds had already been tended to and he had changed into a


    fresh set of clothes. He instructed Larry to prepare the car.


    ¡°Are you really leaving?¡± Zachariah couldn¡¯t quiteprehend Dexter¡¯s actions. ¡°We haven¡¯t found


    Josie yet.¡±


    ¡°The coboration between Russell Group and the Olsen family cannot be halted. We can¡¯t afford to


    have the capital flow break.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s reply was sinct and to the point. He casually picked out a tie and promptly left the office.


    Dexter¡¯s decisiveness and ability to discern pros and cons under pressure drew Zachariah¡¯s


    admiration. ¡°No wonder he is capable of serving as Russell Group¡¯s CEO.¡±


    Leaning to one side, Calvin had an epiphany. ¡°He is forcing himself to stay busy. Otherwise, he


    wouldn¡¯t be able to control his emotions.¡±


    The Olsen family was marrying off their daughter, and naturally, they wanted the best in every aspect.


    The venue was set at thergest hotel in Wavery, with the entire building reserved for the event. As a


    result, the staff members bustled about.

 Chapter 973

    Chapter 973


    When Dexter arrived, Heather was in the midst of directing the proceedings within the crowd. Despite


    her fatigue, her face was filled with excitement.


    udia was also present, apanying Heather.


    ¡°Ms. Hadey.¡± Dexter nodded his head in acknowledgment, his expression indiscernible.


    Upon seeing him, udia gave him a once-over, then nodded thoughtfully. ¡°I¡¯m d you coulde,¡±


    she said. ¡°Leanne will be very happy too.¡±


    Dexter followed her gaze, saying nonchntly, ¡°As it should be.¡±


    When he spoke, it was as if he was merely handling a routine matter, devoid of any emotion.


    udia stood by his side. ¡°Would you consider me as an elder who has watched you grow up?¡±


    ¡°Of course I do.¡±


    ¡°Let me give you a piece of advice,¡± udia said with meaningfully. ¡°There are some people and things


    that you should let go when it¡¯s time. You¡¯vee this far. Who knows if a misfortune might turn out to


    be a blessing? Leanne is not bad at all.¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips without responding. Just then, Heather spotted him, her face lighting up in. She


    darted through the crowd, wearing a vibrant smile. ¡°Dax, you got here so quickly.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was calm, hisrge hand gently resting on top of her head. ¡°Of course, I can¡¯t let


    you handle all this by yourself.¡±


    Heather¡¯s smile broadened with bliss as she led him forward. ¡°Let me run you through the process.


    Tomorrow, we will walk down this path together.¡±


    udia stood behind them, watching the retreating figures of the two young people with a faint smile.


    Just then, someone approached and whispered something in her ear, triggering a change in her


    expression. She nced at Dexter¡¯s silhouette before leaving. ¡°Let¡¯s talk outside.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Dexter had rarely shown such patience before. He apanied Heather through the majority of the


    process, and thetter was exceptionally pleased.


    ¡°Why are you always staring at me with that silly smile?¡± He took the water handed to him by the


    attendant, unscrewing the cap for her.


    ¡°Because you¡¯re handsome, Dax,¡± Heather didn¡¯t hide her feelings. ¡°I¡¯ve never felt this happy before.


    You¡¯re about to be my husband.¡±


    ¡°Are you happy that I¡¯m going to be your husband?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°However, there are many negativements from the outside world. They say that I, being a


    divorcee, am not worthy of you,¡± he said calmly.


    ¡°I never thought of it in that way,¡± Heather threw herself into Dexter¡¯s arms. ¡°In my heart, you¡¯ve merely


    taken the wrong path. Since I love you, I can ept anything.¡±


    She tilted her head back. ¡°Moreover, I don¡¯t think your previous marriage was a disgrace. Ms. Warren¡­


    is a very good person after all.¡±


    Dexter stared into her eyes, not detecting the slightest hint of insincerity within them.


    He fell silent, then after a moment, he curved his lips into a smile. ¡°You are indeed considerate.¡±


    Heather¡¯s smile became even more radiant.


    ¡°By the way, will Summer being tomorrow?¡±


    When he suddenly asked this, Heather¡¯s smile stiffened abruptly. ¡°She¡¯s still ill, so she probably won¡¯t


    being. Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°Your brother-inw, who was also your former boss, there¡¯s news about him.¡±


    Arnold! Heather tried his best to stay calm, probing, ¡°What¡¯s the news?¡±


    ¡°The police said that he wasst seen in Rivodia before he disappeared. He should still be there,


    having not strayed too far.¡± Dexter spoke calmly, taking a sip of water. ¡°Since Summer isn¡¯ting,


    please ry this message to her on my behalf.¡±


    Heather furrowed her brows, lost in deep thought. Dexter took note of this. ¡°Leanne?¡±


    She quickly regained herposure. ¡°Ah, alright. I¡¯ll ry the message when I get back. However,


    Dax, how many years would Arnold be sentenced to for such a crime?¡±


    ¡°How many years? Does he still have a chance ofing out?¡± Dexter found it amusing. ¡°He¡¯ll


    probably get twenty years at least for being an essory to a crime.¡±


    Heather¡¯s pupils slightly contracted.

 Chapter 974

    Chapter 974


    Once the rehearsal waspleted, Moses had waited in the car for a long time. Larry approached him


    immediately, lowering his voice. ¡°Mr. Russell, there¡¯s news from Matthew.¡±


    ¡°Go on,¡± he said.


    ¡°He went to Japrium to seek out a stic surgeon. He had some connections in the medical field, and it


    seemed he had a favor to ask of him.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it strange for a surgeon to seek a stic surgeon?¡± Dexter strode out, adjusting his tie.


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s quite peculiar for him to travel all the way to Japrium. What on earth did Ms. Warren ask of


    him that made him undertake such aborious task?¡±


    This statement caused Dexter to pause slightly. ¡°She is always capable of such things.¡±


    At the mention of the topic, Moses, who was in the front seat, interjected, ¡°A stic surgeon? I think


    I¡¯ve heard a thing or two about that.¡±


    Dexter cast a sharp nce at him. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t quite recall, but I believe Josie and Ms. Whiteford mentioned it before. Oh, that¡¯s right. There


    was this one time Ms. Whiteford handed a document to Josie that she wouldn¡¯t let me see. After she


    read it, her expression was quite odd. In the end, she even used a lighter to burn the document. I had


    no idea what it was.¡±


    After some thought, Moses found himself puzzled by the situation. He had been too busy to report the


    matter to Dexter, and now that Josie had disappeared, he was trying his best to provide useful clues.


    Upon hearing this, Dexter squinted his eyes as he made a call. ¡°Calvin, go see your so-called girlfriend.


    She might know the truth.¡±


    Upon hearing this, there wasn¡¯t an immediate response. Instead, there was a hint of hesitation.


    ¡°Dax¡­ she¡¯s now my ex-girlfriend. Fine¡­ I¡¯ll go right away.¡±


    After ending the call, Dexter flipped his phone over with a flick of his finger. Lifting his gaze, he saw


    udia emerging from inside. She got into a car with Heather, and they quickly drove off.


    ¡°Where has Heather been to recently?¡±


    ¡°The person watching her ims that she has gone nowhere. Every day, they travel back and forth


    between this ce and the Olsen Residence, devoting their entire being to the wedding preparations.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze on Heather grew increasingly cold, showing no trace of fondness.


    He rubbed his fingers subconsciously as he remarked, ¡°They didn¡¯t go anywhere.¡±


    Larry expressed surprise. ¡°Do you think there¡¯s something wrong with her?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s have our people in the Olsen Residence keep an eye on her. I want to know exactly what she¡¯s


    been doing there.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Larry paused. ¡°About Matthew¡­¡±


    ¡°Keep an eye on his flight. Intercept him once he disembarks from the ne.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Meanwhile, at an abandoned construction site, the rain had ceased, yet the weather remained cold.


    Josie¡¯s fever waxed and waned, leaving her lucid for only brief periods. Nevertheless, she endured it as


    best as she could.


    The construction site was vast, surrounded by overgrown weeds and a picture of utter destion. Yet,


    in such a remote ce, Josie spotted a tea nt.


    It was a young nt, standing distinct and solitary amidst the grass.


    She squinted her eyes, suddenly recalling something. Once, udia had shown her around Olsen


    Residence, where the mountain at the back was filled with tea nts. The variety was unique, identical


    to what she was looking at right then.


    How could it be such a coincidence?


    Josie¡¯s heart pounded like a drum, suddenly, a shocking idea struck her¡­


    It was quite challenging for Heather to carry out all these actions without anyone noticing. However, if


    this ce belonged to the Olsen family, which outsiders had no ess to, no one would be able to find


    her.


    In other words, even if she died, no one would notice.


    Reflecting on this, Josie was gripped by fear. The irony of dying in her own true home was too much for


    her to bear.


    ¡°Mr. Johnny,¡± Josie said in a hoarse voice.


    The bald man who had been ying cards came over, cursing, ¡°What is it?¡±

 Chapter 975

    Chapter 975


    ¡°I want to drink water.¡±


    ¡°Bear with it!¡±


    ¡°If I had died of thirst, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to see your sister¡¯s wedding.¡±


    Johnny stared at her impatiently, then reluctantly picked up the bottle of mineral water from the ground


    and slowly fed it to Josie. ¡°Didn¡¯t get enough rainwaterst night, did you?¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    After finishing her drink, Josie finally felt a bit more at ease. She looked at Johnny and suddenly burst


    intoughter, aughter that was truly heartfelt.


    Baffled by herughter, Johnny eximed, ¡°What are youughing at?¡±


    Josie was very happy. ¡°You¡¯re so young. Why do you always pretend to be fierce and menacing? You


    can¡¯t even pull it off convincingly.¡±


    At first nce, Johnny appeared to be someone who had been thrown into the hustle and bustle of


    society at a young age. His face bore the marks of hardship, yet it was clear that he was not particrly


    old.


    After being teased, he gave a fierce kick, sending the stool flying. ¡°Stop trying to cozy up to me,¡± he


    barked, ¡°It¡¯s none of your d*mn business!¡±


    ¡°In a rush, aren¡¯t you?¡± Josie pursued, ¡°You haven¡¯t done anything life-threatening before, have you?


    Just by looking at your knife, which doesn¡¯t even have a sharpened edge, I can tell it¡¯s only for show.¡±


    Johnny was poked fun again, a hint of embarrassment on his face. ¡°If you¡¯re seeking death, I can draw


    my de right now!¡± he threatened.


    ¡°Are you Heather¡¯s university ssmate?¡± Josie looked at him, analyzing, ¡°But it doesn¡¯t seem like it.


    You don¡¯t appear to have received higher education.¡±


    ¡°You really have the nerve to say that. Don¡¯t you value your life?¡± Johnny was furious, gripping her


    throat tightly.


    ¡°She must be someone you met off-campus, right? She must have done something significant for you,


    a huge favor, that make you go to such lengths for her, correct?¡± Josie couldn¡¯t stop herself. A picture


    was already forming in her mind.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if her guess was correct, but Johnny¡¯s gaze held a certainplexity. His force


    intensified as he retorted, ¡°What¡¯s it to you?¡±


    ¡°You hold my life in your hands. How could it not matter?¡±


    This sentence served as a reminder to Johnny. Heather had instructed him that she must not die.


    He abruptly let go. Josie coughed a few times and said, ¡°You never thought Heather would have the


    status she has now, did you? I guess she must have been quite timid and very kind. Did you ever


    imagine she would turn out like this, wishing she could kill me?¡±


    Johnny¡¯s face bore a menacing re as he stared at her fiercely. ¡°It was you who first stole everything


    from her. You deserve to die!¡±


    Josie shed a smile.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡±


    ¡°Did she promise you that even if you killed me, she would find a way to ensure your safe escape? You


    knew this ce wouldn¡¯t be discovered by anyone, so you trusted her even more, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie understood clearly. ¡°I urge you to think this through carefully. This is murder we¡¯re talking about. If


    you truly get your hands dirty, your life will be over. Why go to such lengths for the sake of one


    person?¡±


    ¡°Shut the h*ll up, and don¡¯t pretend to know me so well!¡± Johnny stuffed a piece of cloth into Josie¡¯s


    mouth, silencing her. Then he said, ¡°I¡¯ve seen plenty of people like you, all fake righteousness and


    hypocrisy.¡±


    He¡¯s quite loyal.


    On the surface, Josie appeared calm, but in reality, she was quite frantic and worried.


    She waspletely unaware of what was happening in the outside world. The only thing she could be


    certain of was that she was at Olsen Residence.


    As night fell, the cold returned once more, leaving the surroundings devoid of any light. Josie¡¯s stomach


    growled with hunger. She overheard a fewckeys whispering amongst themselves, ¡°Boss, we haven¡¯t


    eaten yet. We¡¯re starving to death.¡±


    ¡°Shut up! It will be delivered.¡±


    Just as he had said, it wasn¡¯t long before Heather appeared, shlight in hand. She was also carrying a


    large bag of packed food, which she handed to Johnny, saying, ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard. How¡¯s she?¡±


    ¡°Her fever had subsided. She was talking too much, so I told her to be quiet.¡±


    Heather revealed a yful smirk. She walked up to Josie, removing the cloth from her mouth, ¡°It seems


    you¡¯re quite defiant.¡±

 Chapter 976

    Chapter 976


    Exhausted, Josie opened his eyes. ¡°I will never submit to you in this lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Stubborn as a mule.¡±


    Heather casually pulled out her phone from her pocket. Flipping through the photo album, she showed


    her one picture after another. ¡°The venue for tomorrow¡¯s wedding has already been set up. Can you


    take a look for me? Is it beautiful?¡±


    In the photograph, as far as the eye could see, there were white roses everywhere. A red carpet was


    laid out, exuding an aura of extravagant grandeur.


    Josie turned her head.


    Heather, however, insisted that she look. ¡°Today, Dex came to apany me through the process.


    Look, his hand is resting on my waist. Isn¡¯t it nice?¡±


    Josie cast a nce, and indeed, Dexter was among them. His expression was indiscernible, but his


    mere presence there was enough to exin everything.


    Did he¡­ realize I have gone missing? Does he just not care¡­


    ¡°We will walk down this red carpet tomorrow under the watchful eyes of our guests,¡± Heather said


    slowly. ¡°Our parents will give speeches at our wedding, and Dexter will start calling my parents Mom


    and Dad. We will be a family.¡±


    When Josie heard that, her previously calm emotions shattered. She finally responded, ¡°You really


    have no shame.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the shameless one!¡± Heather was livid, forcefully lifting her chin to make her look at her. ¡°The


    wedding tomorrow will be broadcast live. I¡¯ll make you watch Dex put the wedding ring on my finger


    and recite the wedding vows with me. Everything you failed to obtain, I will have. What you¡¯ve obtained,


    I will also secure for myself.¡±


    After saying that, Heather abruptly let go of Josie, straightened up, and left.


    Upon leaving the factory, Johnny followed, his mood somewhat heavy.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    Johnny swallowed hard. ¡°Tomorrow, are we really going to deal with her?¡±


    ¡°If not? If you don¡¯t deal with her, she wille after me.¡± Heather raised her voice. ¡°You are scared!¡±


    ¡°No¡­ Heather, I just¡­ I just felt it wasn¡¯t necessary. You¡¯re already married. She can¡¯t cause any more


    trouble. Did you really have to go that far?¡±


    ¡°You truly have a soft spot for women,¡± Heather stated, devoid of any trace of fear. ¡°Do you even know


    who she is? For all these years, she has taken everything from me. If she escapes, all my efforts will


    have been in vain!¡±


    Johnny nodded, his expression still somewhat conflicted.


    ¡°Johnny, when I saved you back then, I didn¡¯t think too much about it. Now that I¡¯m asking for a favor in


    return, are you unwilling?¡± Heather¡¯s expression suddenly softened.


    Johnny immediately shook his head. ¡°Of course, that¡¯s not what I meant. I will repay your life-saving


    favor. As soon as the wedding ceremony ends tomorrow, I will take care of it.¡±


    Upon seeing the situation, Heather gave a slight nod before turning around to leave.


    ¡°Heather,¡± he called again.


    ¡°Is there anything else?¡±


    The bald man scratched his head. ¡°Uh¡­ Happy wedding.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Upon hearing these words, Heather finally broke into a smile. ¡°Hmm.¡±


    She retraced her steps, necessitating a journey through a mountain path. The silence here was so


    profound that it was frightening. She trod carefully, and only when she finally saw the lights of Olsen


    Residence did she feel somewhat at ease.


    The back door of Olsen Residence led to the rear mountain. The housekeeper lingered in the back


    door for a long time, finally hearing a sound. It was the noise of a walking stick striking the ground,


    gradually drawing closer.


    The door swung open, revealing Mark¡¯s figure.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, why did you go out?¡± The housekeeper approached him.


    Mark¡¯s expression was as solemn as ever. ¡°I couldn¡¯t sleepst night, so I went to the back mountain to


    clear my mind.¡±


    ¡°Are you alone? The forest behind the mountain is too dangerous.¡±


    With a deep sigh, Wen Mark said, ¡°Could you help me back to my room to rest?¡±


    The housekeeper nced outside, and after a slight pause, she responded, ¡°All right.¡±

 Chapter 977

    Chapter 977


    On the fifteenth of November, it was a happy day.


    Olsen Residence had been bustling with activity since the crack of dawn, its lights shining brightly.


    Attendants and staff members were constantly on the move, and everywhere one looked, it was


    decorated in elegant white.


    Heather rose early in the morning, inviting the best makeup artist and stylist in the city. She sat before


    the mirror, applying makeup and dressing in her bridal attire. Everyone who saw herplimented her


    beauty.


    With a smile, Heather signaled the waiter to bring over the mary gifts.


    Although this wedding was not as grand as when Summer married Arnold, it was evident that the Olsen


    family had put their all into it.


    Early in the morning, udia quietly sent someone to fetch Summer from the drug rehabilitation center.


    Her gaze was lost, her face showing signs of defeat. Upon seeing such a grand scene, she asked in a


    daze, ¡°What day is it today?¡±


    The attendant stuttered in response, ¡°Uh¡­ It¡¯s Ms. Olsen and Dexter¡¯s wedding.¡±


    ¡°Wedding¡­¡± Summer¡¯s dry mouth opened and closed, somewhat slow to react. After a moment, she


    suddenlyughed. ¡°Heather, Dexter¡­ they¡¯re getting married¡­¡±


    A scene surfaced in her mind. When the university entrance examination had ended, the boy she had


    been yearning for stood under the mango tree outside the school, his expression indifferent.


    Regardless of whether she upied a ce in his heart, at that moment, he hade for her¡­


    Summer couldn¡¯t control the bitterness in her heart. She forced a smile and said, ¡°The person I¡¯ve been


    pining for all these years is getting married again.¡±


    ¡°M-Miss¡­¡±


    ¡°Go back,¡± she said.


    Olsen Residence was bustling with activity. In order to cover up, Summer was ushered in through the


    back door, her in clothes standing out starkly amidst the sea of white. Yet, no one dared toment


    on her appearance.


    Inside Heather¡¯s room, Heather had already applied her makeup and was discussing the details with


    her stylist.


    Suddenly, the door was pushed open from the outside, startling everyone. look, they were met with


    Summer¡¯s pale and frail face.


    Standing quietly at the door, Heather took a sharp intake of breath. ¡°All of you, please leave.¡±


    Soon, only the two of them were left in the room. Summer closed the door behind her and slowly


    walked toward Heather, scrutinizing her from head to toe. ¡°Mrs. Russell?¡±


    Heather pursed her lips. She had always been too afraid to look directly at Summer.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°S-Sum, you¡¯ve returned.¡±


    ¡°Who are you to call me that?¡±


    ¡°Mother asked me toe home for the ceremony. You¡¯re quite capable, reaching the stage of


    marriage so quickly.¡±


    Heather forced a smile. ¡°Isn¡¯t this what you¡¯ve been longing for? You¡¯re the one who asked me to do


    this.¡±


    Summer nodded, then suddenly reached out, delivering a harsh p to her face.


    Heather was struck so hard that her head turned to the side. The makeup on her cheek was instantly


    smeared, the imprint of a hand p starkly visible. She was breathing rapidly.


    ¡°By now, how much of what you do is truly for me?¡± Summer asked sarcastically, her gaze sharp.


    ¡°Donning the mask of Liana, do you really believe you¡¯ve be her?¡± She continued, ¡°You must be


    quite pleased with yourself, obtaining everything I couldn¡¯t.¡±


    Heather took a deep breath, straightening her body. ¡°We just met, and you told me to be Liana, to


    be Dexter¡¯s wife. Now that I¡¯ve done it, why are you dissatisfied? You¡¯re not jealous of me, are


    you?¡±


    Summer still remembered their first meeting, which took ce in Arnold¡¯s office. At that time, she had


    just discovered Josie¡¯s true identity and was unsure of what to do. However, Arnold reassured her, then


    called Heather in, asking, ¡°What do you think of her?¡±


    Summer was taken aback. ¡°She¡­¡±


    ¡°Quite simr, no? Enough to pass off as the real thing.¡±


    Soon, Heather joined the n. She underwent stic surgery, got tattoos, and began interacting with


    Dexter. Step by step, she made her way to where she was.

 Chapter 978

    Chapter 978


    ¡°Jealous of you?¡± Summer scoffed, looking at the woman before her. ¡°You think by shedding your old


    skin and assuming a new identity, I wouldn¡¯t know about your past? You¡¯re feeling quite superior now,


    aren¡¯t you? You may fool everyone else, but not me. You will never be Josie.¡±


    Heather¡¯s fingers clenched tightly. She had been hit where it hurt, causing her entire body to tremble.


    Summer admired her audacity. ¡°Tell me. What would happen if I were to reveal to everyone right now


    that you¡¯re an imposter, that you¡¯re not Liana at all?¡±


    As she spoke, she couldn¡¯t help but visualize the scene in her mind, and it made her burst intoughter.


    Heather was infuriated. She grabbed a throw pillow from the couch and hurled it at Summer.


    ¡°Lunatic¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already addicted to drugs, and Arnold is nowhere to be found. If ites to it, we¡¯ll all die together.


    I don¡¯t mind.¡±


    Heather¡¯s mind was racing. Summer had been addicted to drugs, so she was capable of anything.


    She stared at Summer with an eerie gaze. ¡°Well, go ahead and tell them. Tell Dexter, udia, and


    Mark right now that I¡¯m a fraud, that you and Arnold orchestrated this whole charade. You can also tell


    them how you¡¯ve been helping me gain their trust. Go on. I¡¯m curious to see how they¡¯ll react to you.¡±


    They were on the same boat; if one person drowned, it was inevitable that they would all be dragged


    down together.


    Summer never expected Heather to be so sharp-tongued speak.


    She shook her head in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯ve really changed.¡±


    ¡°I was forced,¡± Heather swiftly replied, gripping Summer¡¯s wrist. ¡°I¡¯ll have you know. Arnold is currently


    hiding in Rivodia. As long as we¡¯re not at our wit¡¯s end, the n can still proceed. Of course, if you wish


    for us all to die together, I wouldn¡¯t mind.¡±


    Her confidence made Summer narrow her eyes. ¡°Arnold is in Rivodia? How do you know that?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no mistake in what Dexter himself said.¡±


    Summer¡¯s eyes narrowed further as she scrutinized the changes in Heather¡¯s expression.


    Heather pushed her away. ¡°I¡¯ll say it again. If you¡¯re jealous of what I have that you don¡¯t, there¡¯s no


    need. Regretting the path you chose yourself is simply ridiculous, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Summer took a few steps back, wanting tough but finding herself unable to. To her surprise, she


    found herself at the mercy of this young girl.


    After a lengthy stalemate, Summer straightened her body. ¡°Heather, you haven¡¯t fallen in love with


    Dexter, have you?¡±


    After hearing many people call her Ms. Liana Olsen, Heather felt a wave of embarrassment upon


    hearing this long-forgotten name.


    ¡°My name is not Heather. Heather is a name you gave me to make them doubt more that I am Liana.


    My name is Rachel Strauss.¡±


    Summer let out a chuckle. ¡°I¡¯m asking you a question.¡±


    Heather promptly returned to her original spot, picking up her makeup brush to touch up her face, her


    back turned toward Summer.


    ¡°Summer, let me give you a piece of advice. Some people, if they¡¯re not meant to be yours, they simply


    won¡¯t be. Your relentless pursuit of Dexter, coupled with your attempts to draw his attention through


    business confrontations, what¡¯s the point? At this stage, he won¡¯t spare you another nce. Don¡¯t let


    your possessiveness get the better of you.¡±


    ¡°D*mn you¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve lived through days of poverty and fear. All I want is to climb higher. Love isn¡¯t important to me.


    Rest assured.¡± Heather¡¯s eyshes fluttered.


    Summer took several deep breaths, struggling to keep her rage in check. She red at the woman in


    the mirror, her teeth gritted. ¡°You better not.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Having said that, she turned around, opened the door, and left.


    Unknown to them, a person was hiding in the corner at the end of the corridor.

 Chapter 979

    Chapter 979


    Laura leaned against the wall, hidden in the shadows, still clutching the item she had intended to


    deliver to Heather¡¯s room.


    Her gaze remained surprisingly calm.


    ¡°Laura?¡± udia approached from a distance, her eyes sharp.


    Regaining herposure, Laura said, ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°Why are you standing here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling a bit hypoglycemic. I need a moment to rest.¡±


    Without hesitation, udia opened the box in Laura¡¯s hands. Inside were a pair of earrings and a ring,


    both made of pure gold, intended solely for Heather.


    ¡°Let me take these inside,¡± Laura hastily suggested.


    ¡°Hold on.¡± udia took over. ¡°I¡¯ll handle this. You should go and rest for a bit. Today is going to be very


    busy.¡±


    Laura nodded in agreement. She walked a short distance away, then turned back for another nce.


    Suddenly, she felt a sense of loneliness emanating from udia¡¯s retreating figure.


    udia had just put away the box when she knocked on Heather¡¯s door. ¡°Leanne.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Heather greeted, her face beaming with joy as she stepped forward to meet her.


    udia looked her up and down, a smile curving her lips as she nodded. ¡°You look beautiful.¡±


    Heather was somewhat shy.


    udia gestured for her to sit down, picking up the woodenb from the table and slowly brushing


    through her long hair. ¡°You¡¯re about to be married,¡± she said, ¡°Things won¡¯t be the same as they were


    at home. You can¡¯t just do as you please anymore. You must always be cautious.¡±


    A sense of warmth flowed through Heather¡¯s heart. ¡°Mmm¡­ Dex has always been good to me.¡±


    ¡°The fact that he treats you well is one thing, but you can¡¯t be too naive,¡± udia said calmly, imparting


    words of wisdom to her daughter before her wedding. ¡°What happened at the art exhibitionst time


    must not happen again, no matter the reason. Do you understand?¡±


    After hearing that, Heather¡¯s face fell. ¡°I know¡­¡±


    Yet, what she regretted even more was that if she hadn¡¯t been manipted by Josie, her reputation


    wouldn¡¯t have been so tarnished.


    She forced a smile, patting udia¡¯s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mother. It won¡¯t happen again.¡± She wouldn¡¯t


    allow herself to be manipted anymore.


    udia curved her lips, looking at Heather in the mirror, yet she felt a peculiar sensation within her. A


    sense of alienation was intensely strong, devoid of the affection one would expect from a mother.


    ¡°Mother, is there something else you want to discuss?¡± Heather asked cautiously, noticing her


    hesitation to speak.


    udia lowered her gaze. Inexplicably, she did not take out the box. Instead, she said, ¡°From now on,


    you are not just the daughter of the Olsen family, but also Mrs. Russell. You have a dual identity, and


    you must be more cautious in your words and actions. Leanne, is there anything¡­ you have been


    hiding from us? Speak up so we can help you deal with it.¡±


    At this moment, Heather¡¯s expression stiffened for a moment. She cautiously said, ¡°Hide¡­ No, nothing


    at all.¡±


    ¡°The secrets I¡¯m referring to include everything before your return to the Olsen family. Over these many


    years, haven¡¯t there been one or two things you couldn¡¯t share with others? I am your mother. You can


    trust me.¡±


    Heather¡¯s heart raced. ¡°Uh¡­ Really, there¡¯s nothing. Why would you ask such a thing?¡±


    udia paused herbing. ¡°Do you know that any mistake, as long as you admit it, there¡¯s a chance


    for forgiveness and rectification? It¡¯s not toote to cut your losses now.¡±


    Heather¡¯s fingers, hidden beneath her skirt, clenched tightly. Her expression remained unchanged.


    ¡°Mother, what are you talking about? I don¡¯t understand,¡± she said.


    At this point, udia did not press further. ¡°It¡¯s good if there¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ What about father? Is his health any better? Will he be able to attend the ceremony?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    udia left the room. She took out a box and nced at it. Ultimately, she hadn¡¯t given it away.


    Just then, an attendant rushed over, whispering, ¡°Ruby has arrived in Wavery on the earliest high-


    speed train today. Our people intercepted her, and she was with someone.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Josie¡¯s younger brother, Justin.¡±

 Chapter 980

    Chapter 980


    Meanwhile, The Morning Wavery News had arrived at the printing factory. The headline on the front


    page was prominently about the union of the Russell and Olsen families. After that day passed, Mrs.


    Russell would take on the title. There would be no more spection.


    The wedding was today, and the majority of the Russell family had arrived, all rushing towards the


    hotel. As far as Josie was concerned, they clearly favored the eldest daughter of the Olsen family to


    be the future matriarch of the Russell family.


    Mason Garden was unusually quiet. The styling team was not allowed to enter. In the end, Larry had no


    choice but to call Calvin. When thetter arrived, he found the man sitting on the floor smoking, leaning


    against the couch. In front of him was arge floor-to-ceiling window, reflecting his lonely and deste


    profile.


    A slight shock filled his heart. ¡°Dex, today is the wedding.¡±


    Dexter remained still, his breath heavy, as he watched the burning cigarette at his fingertips.


    Calvin didn¡¯t dare to rush him. He could only sit to the side, waiting for his response.


    After a while, as the sun began to rise outside, a burst of light fell into Dexter¡¯s eyes. He squinted and


    asked, ¡°How did it feel to have a wedding ceremony with Zendaya?¡±


    Caught off guard by the sudden question, Calvin stuttered a bit, his response somewhat nonchnt.


    ¡°I¡¯m not quite like her. It was merely a matter of convenience. I didn¡¯t feel much.¡±


    After saying this, he realized that Dexter and Heather had been in the same situation all along.


    ¡°I had promised to give Josie a wedding, but I failed to do so.¡±


    Now, however, he was to have a wedding with another woman.


    The corners of his eyes, tinged with red, brimmed with endless regret.


    Calvin hesitated for a moment, then ced his hand on his shoulder, giving it a pat. The bond between


    buddies needed no words.


    ¡°If Josie knew, she would understand.¡±


    However, she had understood him too many times. Even after the divorce, she was still entangled in


    his life, her fate uncertain. Just the thought of it made Dexter¡¯s heart ache.


    ¡°What did Mallory say?¡±


    ¡°At first, she was unwilling to speak. It was only after Josie disappeared that she decided to open up.¡±


    Calvin pulled out a piece of paper. ¡°She simply suggested that we should look for Justin. Perhaps, we


    could find some clues.¡±


    The note had a phone number written on it.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°Leave it to Mr. Peeple.¡±


    He stubbed out his cigarette and rose to his feet. The styling team quickly came in and began their


    preparations.


    Upon receiving the note, Larry immediately followed Moses without a moment¡¯s dy, embarking on a


    quest to search for clues.


    They brushed past a Mercedes on the street. The man inside the car, propping up his face, softly


    instructed, ¡°Send a team to follow them.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Bastille!¡±


    Afterward, Morgan flipped his phone and dialed a number. The call connected on the other end, but no


    words were spoken.


    ¡°Where is Josie?¡± He cut straight to the chase.


    His icy voice momentarily stunned the person on the other end. ¡°I couldn¡¯t find anything. Heather didn¡¯t


    go anywhere other than Olsen Residence.¡±


    ¡°Olsen Residence¡­ So, it¡¯s at Olsen Residence, then.¡± Morgan snorted coldly. ¡°You need to find a way


    to search. Heather is ruthless. Josie cannot die.¡±


    There was no response at first. After a while, Morgan asked in a deep voice, ¡°Laura?¡±


    ¡°And then, if Josie were to emerge, she would eventually reim everything that belongs to her. What


    will you do about the things you want then?¡±


    Morgan leaned back in his chair, pressing a finger to his brow. ¡°As long as Dexter marries Heather, she


    will be left with no options. What I must protect at this moment is her life.¡±


    ¡°The risk is substantial.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Laura, you talk too much. I don¡¯t like it.¡±


    After a moment of silence, Laura finally spoke. ¡°If Josie finds out that you¡¯re also plotting against her,


    she will hate you.¡±


    Hate¡­ The word caused a pang in Morgan¡¯s heart. ¡°Everything I did was for her own good. Dexter was


    bound to lose everything sooner orter. He is not her destiny.¡±


    ¡°Who is, then? You?¡±


    Laura paused for a moment, then apologized, ¡°I will find out.¡± After that, she hung up the phone.

 Chapter 981

    Chapter 981


    The horizon was turning white as the sun gradually climbed into the sky. The weather was perfect.


    The wedding car parade was extensive, with each car spaced ten meters apart. The entire Wavery was


    aware that it was the grand wedding of Russell Group¡¯s CEO. It was no longer a secret marriage but a


    publicly and grandly conducted wedding ceremony.


    Inside the car, Dexter sat in the back seat, dressed in formal attire, deep in thought.


    Just as Calvin was about to say something, the phone he was holding vibrated. Larry was calling. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, we¡¯ve found Justin. He has been seen frequently with a woman named Ruby Langdon. I¡¯ve


    checked. She doesn¡¯t seem to have any particr significance.¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips. ¡°Have the background checks beenpleted? What about herwork of


    rtionships?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve done it. They are all insignificant individuals. Also, Justin is no longer in our custody. He has


    been taken by another power, located at the border between Rivodia and Wavery.¡±


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Dexter squinted his eyes.


    By this point, the vehicle had already arrived at the Olsen Residence, with the bodyguards being the


    first to disembark.


    ¡°It was udia, the matriarch of the Olsen family.¡±


    He looked up, his gaze meeting udia, who was standing elegantly at the doorway, waiting patiently.


    Her posture was graceful and virtuous.


    ¡°Find out the reasons and ensure the person¡¯s rescue.¡± Dexter paused. ¡°Inform me immediately once


    you find out.¡±


    After ending the call, he finally got out of the car. He walked up to udia and respectfully greeted her,


    ¡°Hi, Mrs. Olsen.¡±


    udia never held back her admiration for him in her gaze. She nodded. ¡°You won¡¯t be calling me that


    anymore in the future.¡±


    Amidst the hustle and bustle, Dexter stood, his expression as indifferent as ever. He asked, ¡°Where is


    Mr. Olsen?¡±


    ¡°He isn¡¯t feeling well today, so he will be arriving at the wedding a bitte. He might not be able to


    participate in some of the formalities. Please forgive him.¡± udia also received the notice at thest


    minute.


    Dexter seemed lost in thought, his face showing no objections. ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡±


    Dawn had broken, and Josie awoke from the chaos, her body aching all over. Her throat was so hoarse


    that she couldn¡¯t speak. Even the slightest movement of her vocal cords felt as painful as rubbing


    against a stone.


    Johnny and the others were still ying cards, paying no attention to her.


    She gazed towards the distant azure horizon, feeling an impending sense of destion as if a storm


    was about to ravage the wilderness.


    It was Dexter and Heather¡¯s wedding day, and quite possibly, it could also be herst day alive in this


    world. This is truly unbearable. I don¡¯t want toe back again in my next life.


    Johnny noticed her absentmindedly gazing into the distance and, for unknown reasons, said, ¡°The


    wedding won¡¯t start untilter. Think about what you want to say to your family. If I¡¯m in a good mood,


    I¡¯ll pass on your message when the timees.¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Josie chuckled, her voice raspy as she said, ¡°You¡¯re an assassin, but you still have a sense of


    humanity.¡±


    Johnny mmed the cards onto the ground, his voice harsh and filled with malice. ¡°Enough with the


    nonsense. You only have this one chance.¡±


    Last words, huh? Josie tilted her head back. In the truest sense, her only family was Paul. Yet, she


    hadn¡¯t found him until then. She felt guilty for not being able to repay his kindness in raising her.


    As for Justin, he would soon know everything. She hoped that he wouldn¡¯t me her when that time


    came.


    She thought her biological parents wouldn¡¯t be able to ept the news of their real daughter¡¯s death.


    They had no way to verify the truth of the news. They could only treat Heather as their own.


    Heather had done it. She had truly taken over everything that was Josie¡¯s.


    Perhaps it¡¯s better if I die. I wouldn¡¯t have to bear the so-called moral shackles in life anymore. Josie


    was disheartened.


    Meanwhile, when Dexter entered the Olsen Residence, he didn¡¯t immediately seek out Heather.


    Instead, he requested a meeting with Mark. However, he was stopped by a servant.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but Mr. Olsen is not receiving visitors today.¡±


    ¡°Not even me?¡± Dexter asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid not.¡±

 Chapter 982

    Chapter 982


    Dexter nced deeply at the study door before turning around and heading back to Heather¡¯s room.


    The wedding was conducted in a proper manner, free from any outdated and backward traditions. He


    opened the door to find Heather sitting on the bed with her legs crossed, her wedding dress elegantly


    spread out around her, and diamonds sparkling on her head.


    When she saw him, she blushed and said, ¡°Dex, you¡¯ve arrived.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes showed no emotion as he sat across from her. ¡°It¡¯s not time yet. We¡¯ll leave at ten,¡± he


    replied.


    Heather always had a shy smile on her face, her pristine fingers intertwined. Her eyes were filled with


    admiration and reverence as she looked at him.


    This man, who was once out of reach, would probably never have crossed paths with them if it weren¡¯t


    for an unexpected twist of fate. Yet, it was this chance to get close to him that allowed her to forgive the


    injustices and poverty she had endured for over a decade.


    ¡°Dex, do you remember when we first met?¡± Heather asked.


    Dexter furrowed his brow, absentmindedly flipping his phone between his fingers. ¡°Arnold¡¯s office.¡±


    Indeed, it was back then when he sought out Arnold to help Summer, which led to their first encounter.


    ¡°What was your initial reaction when you saw me back then?¡± she inquired.


    At that time, she had already made herself look very much like Josie. Upon seeing her, Dexter naturally


    found her familiar.


    ¡°Familiar.¡±


    ¡°I felt the same way, Dex. I recognized you at that moment. I never thought that the boy from my youth


    would be you. But you already had a wife, and I was heartbroken.¡±


    Heather was filled with emotion. If there were no doubts, Dexter would have been moved. But at that


    moment, he remained unmoved.


    He nced at the sunlight outside. ¡°You mentioned the past. It actually reminded me of something.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°When we were children, we buried a pot of wine under a tree during one of our yful adventures. We


    made a pact to dig it up and drink it once we each got married. Now that we are about to get married,


    it¡¯s time to open that pot of wine.¡±


    Heather was taken aback for a moment, then tentatively responded, ¡°Indeed, I hadpletely


    forgotten until you mentioned it. Send someone to dig it up. We¡¯ll drink it tonight.¡±


    The corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth curved slightly, a sharp glint shing in his eyes.


    He had never done such a thing with Liana.


    There was a DNA report, so he had never tried to dig for information. However, the moment he did, he


    found a lead.


    Calmly, he stepped off the balcony to make a call.


    ¡°Look into Heather¡¯s case through Ruby,¡± he said on the phone.


    The sunlight fell on his face, yet it appeared incredibly gloomy. ¡°Tell Justin that if he and his sister want


    to survive, they must tell the truth.¡±


    Throughout the time he was waiting for a response, Dexter remained standing on the balcony with the


    call connected.


    Heather was puzzled. She carefully got out of bed and walked to the balcony door, where she heard


    Dexter¡¯s voiceing from afar.


    ¡°Have someone take Edward to Northern Wavery. It¡¯s secluded there. Arnold won¡¯t be able to find him,¡±


    Dexter said.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Heather silently took note of it and, without making a sound, returned to her original position just as he


    was about to turn around.


    It was almost ten o¡¯clock, and the servant was urging them to leave.


    Dexter stepped out of the room, watching as Heather was assisted forward. Just then, his phone rang.


    It was a call from Larry.


    He picked up the phone immediately and said, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Larry was alwaysposed, but this time, his voice trembled as he answered, ¡°Mr. Russell, Liana¡­


    No¡­ Heather¡¯s real name is Rachel.¡±


    Clearly, Larry was also quite shocked. ¡°Justin is doing things for Josie. He specifically came for this


    wedding.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s fingers trembled as he held his phone. Everything was confirmed, and his pulse was racing.


    Justin snatched the phone away, raising his voice. ¡°Dexter! Do whatever you want with me! Just tell me


    where my sister is! She hasn¡¯t contacted me for several days! What have you done to her?¡±

 Chapter 983

    Chapter 983


    Unaware of the reason behind Josie¡¯s actions, Justin remained clueless.


    However, Dexter had already gathered all the information. He quickly connected the dots, feeling


    overwhelmed by the truth. Eventually, it transformed into a deep sense of guilt, weighing heavily on his


    heart.


    He stood there, chuckling softly, as if he were the loneliest person in the world. Soon, a destructive


    desire for revenge surged within him, threatening to consume himpletely.


    Larry had already retrieved his phone and said, ¡°udia¡¯s men aren¡¯t the best. They probably thought


    they could keep this matter covert and undiscovered. Our people have already apprehended them.


    However, there¡¯s some bad news. There¡¯s still a team tracking us. What should we do now?¡±


    ¡°We need to find a way to shake them off. We have to bring Justin and Ruby back to Wavery as quickly


    as possible,¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was as cold and decisive as ice.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    The route from the Olsen Residence to the hotel was adorned with fresh flowers and red carpets,


    creating a grand spectacle. Alongside the wedding, the stock price of Russell Group had been soaring


    high but had now reached its limit.


    The wedding was advantageous for both families.


    The wedding took ce at the Olsen family¡¯s hotel, which had been cleared out for the day to


    amodate the guests.


    The attendees were all rtives and business partners of both families, as well as employees from the


    marketce. The crowd was substantial, creating a grand spectacle.


    Upon arriving at the scene, the bodyguards noticed numerous paparazzi lurking around. They asked


    for instructions on how to handle the situation.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Dexter remained indifferent. ¡°It¡¯s not right to sneak photos on such a grand asion. Let¡¯s invite them


    all in.¡±


    udia, who was by his side, frowned. ¡°Dex, this isn¡¯t appropriate.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen,¡± he nced sideways, his tone indifferent. ¡°Today, we have numerous guests. It¡¯s


    inevitable that some may slip through the cracks. Instead of hiding and covering up, why not be open?


    Otherwise, others might think we are stingy, don¡¯t you agree?¡±


    His reasoning was sound. udia fell silent for a moment before finally agreeing, ¡°Today is, after all,


    your wedding day. Arrange it however you wish.¡±


    Dexter watched her walk away, his thoughts drifting into the distance.


    Soon, the media arrived, portraying the wedding ceremony as even more grandiose.


    Meanwhile, Johnny had stepped out for a moment and managed to bring in arge television. He


    ced it in front of Josie and spent some time fiddling with it before finally getting the picture toe


    on.


    Josie squinted her eyes. It was a live broadcast, with a bustling crowd, but she immediately spotted the


    man greeting the guests.


    Dressed in formal attire, he stood tall and dignified next to Heather, engaging with the guests in a polite


    and measured manner.


    Heather, dressed in a traditional wedding dress, stood gracefully and quietly by his side, their presence


    complementing each other beautifully.


    Josie¡¯s pupils slightly contracted.


    She had imagined this scenario countless times, but she never thought that when the moment truly


    arrived, it would stir up such intense emotions within her.


    Clearly, her heart was broken.


    Johnny also saw the scene and whispered softly, ¡°So beautiful¡­¡±


    Josie caught on and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Do you like her?¡±


    Johnny spun around, his hand poised to p her. ¡°Stop talking nonsense.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t scared at all. ¡°You can¡¯t even admit your feelings, despite your size. Are you even a man?¡±


    Johnny waved his hand again. ¡°Stop meddling in my affairs. As for you, your ex-husband is about to


    get married. You must be full of regrets.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie replied yfully, ¡°I don¡¯t mind at all. At least I¡¯ve shared a bed with him. What


    about you? You don¡¯t even dare to confess your feelings, do you? Because you know Heather doesn¡¯t


    think highly of you. If she found out, she would only feel disgusted and distance herself from you.¡±


    Johnny¡¯s face alternated between pale and green. After a while, he lowered his hand. ¡°All that matters


    is her happiness.¡±


    Hearing that, Josie thought Johnny was a simp.

 Chapter 984

    Chapter 984


    In contrast to the lively wedding scene, the Olsen Residence was eerily quiet after the festivities. The


    servants were busy cleaning up under the guidance of the butler and the housekeeper.


    When the housekeeper saw Laura, she was surprised. ¡°Why were you at the wedding, Mrs. Olsen?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I wasn¡¯t feeling well. I¡¯ll leave soon,¡± Laura replied.


    ¡°Make sure you don¡¯t lose track of time,¡± the housekeeper reminded her.


    Laura nodded in agreement and went straight back to the master bedroom. Zach, still hungover from


    the previous night¡¯s socializing, hadn¡¯t woken up yet. It was clear that he didn¡¯t care about Liana¡¯s so-


    called wedding.


    Laura approached cautiously, checking to see if he had awakened before turning to leave. She entered


    the small study room, opened the secretpartment, and entered the hidden room. She descended


    the dimly lit staircase step by step. The fear from the past resurfaced, and she struggled to control her


    nerves as her hand trembled.


    The hidden room was dimly lit and secluded, untouched for a long time. Spider webs and dust were


    scattered everywhere.


    Laura stood in the vast basement, her gaze falling upon the various torture devices hanging on the


    walls. She couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    Every time she saw the devices, she would curse Zach.


    ¡°Josie¡­¡± Laura called out as she walked.


    Her voice echoed throughout the empty room.


    ¡°Are you here? If you are, make a sound.¡±


    However, as Laura searched, there was no response. It seemed as though she was the only one in that


    ce. Josie isn¡¯t here, but it makes sense. Only Mark and udia know about this vile and dirty ce.


    There¡¯s no reason for anyone else to have kidnapped Josie. So where exactly is she?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± A venomous voice suddenly echoed from behind.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Laura jumped in surprise, turning around to find Zach, dressed in his pajamas, standing on the


    stairs, watching her with a cold gaze.


    Zach stared at her wide-eyed. When he looked at someone like that, it was incredibly unsettling.


    Laura had seen him in that state before, and that was when he was hitting her.


    She forced herself to remain calm. ¡°I¡¯m looking for something.¡±


    Zach nced at the torture instruments. ¡°Did youe to the hidden room to search for things? It


    seems like you¡¯re asking for trouble.¡±


    ¡°I dare you.¡±


    ¡°Damn it! You really think I wouldn¡¯t dare!¡± Zach raised his hand abruptly, his face twisted with malice.


    ¡°Hit me, then.¡± Laura walked straight up to him, standing before him. ¡°Liana is married to Dexter now.


    Soon, the entire Olsen family will be under their control. Without me, how will youpete with them?¡±


    As she spoke those words, a smile appeared on the corners of her mouth, like a poisonous flower


    blooming on the edge of a cliff.


    Zach red at her, gritting his teeth in frustration. Yet, the p he had poised in the air nevernded.


    ¡°Are you scared? Mr. Zach, I truly feel sorry for you. Despite being a son, your parents don¡¯t value you.


    You¡¯ve gained nothing. Wouldn¡¯t you say you¡¯re worthless?¡±


    With a fiery provocation, Laura dered, having already seen through this outwardly strong but


    inwardly weak young master.


    At times, she even thought that it was right for Mark not to grant Zach any power. Zach trulycks


    intelligence.


    ¡°Shut your mouth! My father wouldn¡¯t be so foolish as to hand over the Olsen family to an outsider!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if Dexter has the ability or not. Regardless, he¡¯s more capable than you.¡± After provoking


    him, Laura walked past him and left the hidden room.


    Zach followed her, grabbing her hand as if he had finally sobered up. ¡°Listen, you must help me. The


    Olsen family is mine. If you assist me in reiming it, I will grant you a divorce, giving you the freedom


    you desire. But if you refuse to help me, don¡¯t me me for being heartless!¡±


    Half submissive, half threatening, Laura responded with a cool, amused chuckle. ¡°Understood. Let¡¯s


    pack up. It¡¯s time for us to leave.¡±Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

 Chapter 985

    Chapter 985


    The wedding became livelier once the media arrived.


    Zachariah arrivedte, casually making his way through the crowd. He spotted Calvin, who stood out in


    his brightly colored suit.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening? This liveliness isn¡¯t Dex¡¯s style.¡±


    Calvin crossed his arms and pondered, ¡°I think he never took this wedding seriously from the start.¡±


    He doesn¡¯t even consider this a real wedding.


    Zachariah patted his shoulder and headed backstage. In the specially prepared room, Dexter sat in the


    main seat, listening to Seth¡¯s report. When he saw Zachariah, he raised an eyebrow.


    Zachariah said, ¡°Dex, Russell Group¡¯s stocks have hit rock bottom. Once this wedding proceeds, all our


    problems will be solved.¡±


    There would be no more difficulties.


    Dexter¡¯s ambition to expand his territory was about to be realized.


    Upon hearing this, Seth, who stood nearby, added, ¡°That¡¯s great. Mr. Harrison¡¯s n to acquire shares


    will fail.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t show joy. Instead, he furrowed his brows as if deep in thought.


    Seth and Zachariah exchanged nces. ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ seems upset.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t disy any emotions. He raised his hand to pinch the bridge of his nose and said, ¡°We¡¯ll


    see.¡±


    His ambiguous response raised concerns in Seth¡¯s mind.


    Outside the room, udia happened to pass by. She walked briskly, clutching her phone.


    ¡°You lost them? How could you lose them? Didn¡¯t I tell you to keep watch?¡±


    ¡°The opponent is too strong. We can¡¯t match them, Mrs. Olsen!¡±


    ¡°Who are they?¡±


    udia was already confused after learning that the person escorting Ruby she couldn¡¯t believe they


    had lost them.


    ¡°When we crossed paths, I saw a name embroidered on their clothes: Russell.¡±


    udia immediately stopped in her tracks. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s spelled R-U-S-S-E-L-L.¡±


    udia¡¯s mind was instantly filled with chaos.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Is this Dexter¡¯s doing? What is he up to? Her thoughts were a jumbled mess, and she couldn¡¯t make


    sense of it all for a while.


    ¡°What should we do now, Mrs. Olsen?¡±


    ¡°Retreat. You can¡¯t defeat Dexter¡¯s men.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, udia leaned against the wall, trying to make sense of everything.


    When she noticed something strange about Heather, she had someone investigate her past


    experiences. Strangely enough, all her experiences had beenpletely rewritten since high school,


    and there was no trace of her past.


    She then hired a detective to look into her university records and discovered that she had once used an


    alias, Rachel Strauss.


    After extensive research, she found out more about her and her former friend, Ruby.


    That day, when udia found out she had arrived in Wavery, she thought it was odd. Even more


    coincidentally, she encountered Josie in the same ce.


    Did Josie meet Ruby that day? Why did she meet Ruby, and what did she discover? Why is Ruby with


    her younger brother now? What are they nning? And now Dexter is involved¡­


    udia stood still, her heart filled with emotions. She had an unsettling premonition, but she didn¡¯t


    know how to confront it.


    Afterposing herself for a moment, she picked up her phone again and dialed thendline number


    of the Olsen family.


    The housekeeper answered the call. ¡°Mrs. Olsen?¡±


    ¡°Put Mr. Olsen on the phone.¡±


    ¡°Please wait a moment.¡± The housekeeper left and returned after a while. ¡°Mrs. Olsen, you may have to


    wait. Mr. Olsen is not here. He¡¯s neither in the study nor in the bedroom. I¡¯m searching for him!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean he¡¯s not here? Where is he then?¡± udia shouted.

 Chapter 986

    Chapter 986


    Meanwhile, Josie had been bound to a chair for two full days. Her entire body was numb as she stared


    nkly at the images on the television screen.


    It was unclear how much she had watched.


    The camera focused on the lively guests. Dexter and Heather were not present. Josie presumed they


    were preparing.


    It¡¯s happening soon¡­


    Josie could clearly sense the nervousness in Johnny and his subordinates.


    Unexpectedly, Josie felt rxed. She couldn¡¯t care less, knowing that there was no chance for


    redemption.


    ¡°Boss¡­ what¡¯s that sound¡­¡± oneckey asked Johnny, holding his breath to listen.


    Johnny¡¯s brow furrowed as he discerned the sporadic, weighty thuds of a walking stick hitting the floor,


    indicating the presence of someone using a walker.


    ¡°Someone¡¯sing!¡± Johnny eximed in rm. He drew his knife, cautiously moving forward.


    Josie furrowed her brows. She also heard the sound of the walking stick approaching, the disordered


    footfalls growing louder. Their intent was unmistakable. They were advancing in their direction.


    Soon, Josie looked up, only to see a pair of feet d in canvas shoes. She continued to look up and


    saw a hunched figure, leaning on a walking stick. When her gaze fell on his face, her pupils dted in


    surprise.


    Mark? How can it be Mark?N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    He was already over sixty, and although his health was not the best, he remained calm even in the face


    of danger.


    Mark had evidentlye alone. He scanned the deste, abandoned construction site, his gaze finally


    settling on Josie, who was bound.


    His gaze darkened.


    ¡°Who are you!¡± Johnny brandished his knife at him, a hint of fear lingering in his voice. ¡°How did you


    find this ce!¡±


    Finally, Mark turned his gaze toward Johnny, his voice steady as he said, ¡°This is my home. If anyone


    should be asking that question, it should be me!¡±


    His home? Johnny searched his memories. ¡°Y-You¡¯re Mark Olsen!¡±


    How terrifying! How on earth did Mark manage to find this ce? Wasn¡¯t it long since abandoned?


    Markmented, ¡°Young man, you have quite a keen eye!¡±


    He walked forward, leaning on his walking stick,pletely disregarding the knife he was holding.


    Johnny and his subordinates were forced to retreat.


    ¡°Don¡¯te any further. Weapons don¡¯t discriminate. You¡¯re not young anymore. There¡¯s no need to


    take risks!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve experienced struggles from my youth until now. There¡¯s nothing I haven¡¯t seen. Your mere knife


    can¡¯t harm me!¡±


    Mark continued to move forward, truly unafraid.


    Johnny and his subordinates exchanged nces, unsure of what to do next. Should we take action?


    But this man is, nominally, Heather¡¯s father at present! If we don¡¯t, then what are we going to do?


    Mark stood firm before the tip of his de. ¡°Listen, young man. Whatever you¡¯re nning to do is none


    of my business. I¡¯m not here to y the hero.¡±


    Johnny nced at Josie. Her eyes unmistakably carried a trace of anticipation, but in an instant, it


    vanished.


    The anticipation was gone.


    Johnny heaved a sigh of relief. He¡¯s alone. I¡¯m sure he has no other intentions. ¡°Then what are you¡ª¡±


    Mark looked at Josie. ¡°I¡¯m here to have a word with her.¡±


    Mark sat straight on the steps, right next to Josie.


    ¡°Untie her.¡±


    ¡°No way!¡±


    Josie¡¯s wrists and ankles had been rubbed raw by the ropes, her skin now taking on a ghastly bluish


    hue.


    ¡°Untie her!¡± Markmanded in a deep voice. ¡°We¡¯re at Olsen Residence. The people outside are


    under mymand. She won¡¯t be able to escape!¡±


    ¡°Why should I trust you? What if you¡¯re here to save her?¡±


    ¡°The person who kidnapped her is my daughter! I will never harm her!¡±


    To Johnny¡¯s surprise, Mark knew it was Heather.

 Chapter 987

    Chapter 987


    Josie was equally surprised. When did he find out¡­


    Upon hearing those words, Johnny gradually let down his guard. He swallowed hard, realizing he


    shouldn¡¯t defy this man. He stepped forward, cutting Josie¡¯s ropes, and then stood guard at the door.


    Suddenly, Josie was free from her shackles. Her arms trembled, and for a long while, she was unable


    to move. She had lost all sensation, unable to feel even pain.


    ¡°Instead of attending your daughter¡¯s wedding today, you came to mock me. What is your purpose?¡±


    Mark stared at her pained expression, then his gaze fell on the live broadcast ying on the screen in


    front of her.


    ¡°You¡¯re a smart person. I¡¯ve felt that way since the moment I first saw you.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t quite articte the feeling in her heart. Despite the man standing before her being her


    biological father, she felt an immense distance between them.


    ¡°I thought you were as kind and loving as a father at first. Even though you saw me as a substitute, you


    took care of me in every possible way. I once thought you were a smart person as well.¡±


    She reflected on when they first met. The impression Mark had given her was as gentle as a spring


    breeze. Everyone said he was cunning, yet toward her, he had always shown an extra bit of tolerance.


    Even when Summer made mistakes, he did not hesitate to criticize, yet he was also forgiving.


    ¡°But you¡¯ve done so many things that disappointed meter on!¡±


    ¡°I disappointed you?¡± Josie didn¡¯t quite understand and chuckled. ¡°For instance?¡±


    ¡°You seduced Arnold and betrayed Dexter, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Well, about that¡­ I actually believe you started to have prejudices against me only after you found


    your biological daughter. I did nothing wrong from the beginning.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    With a cold expression, Mark asked, ¡°Since you¡¯re so smart, do you know why I came today?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not curious about it.¡±


    Perhaps it would be more heartbreaking to know.


    ¡°My daughter has been wandering for over a decade before she returned to my side. Today is her big


    day, and under no circumstances will I allow you to ruin it.¡±


    He preferred to stay, to watch over her.


    Josie understood most of it now. So, it¡¯s true that he¡¯s here to watch me, not to save me¡­


    ¡°Even if you knew that Heather was the one who kidnapped me¡­¡± Josie¡¯s voice was icy cold.


    Mark recalled the previous night. He had inadvertently seen Heather carrying something and heading


    straight for the mountain. Struck by curiosity, he couldn¡¯t resist following her. He watched as she


    crossed the tea ntation and arrived at this abandoned factory.


    And there, Josie, was astonishingly bound inside.


    Mark was not unaffected, but he chose not to expose Heather.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he said.


    Josie¡¯s heart sank a little further.


    ¡°She never had any good days, and you¡¯ve been constantly ruining her life. She¡¯s so scared that she


    locked you up here,¡± Mark said quickly. ¡°I can understand, and I will also cover up for her!¡±


    Josieughed upon hearing this. Scared?


    ¡°She isn¡¯t scared, Mr. Olsen. She¡¯s out to kill me.¡±


    She nced at Johnny at the door. ¡°Even if she killed me, you would cover up for her, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    With a look of anger on his face, Mark dered, ¡°She wouldn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°But what if!¡±


    Mark hesitated, and it was this brief hesitation that made Josie¡¯s heart grow colder and colder.


    She realized that in this world, there was truly no one standing by her side.


    ¡°You would cover up for her and hide the evidence. You could easily discard me somewhere no one


    would ever find. You wouldn¡¯t let her be discovered. Under your protection, she would forever remain


    the pristine Ms. Olsen.¡±


    She urately voiced Mark¡¯s thoughts.

 Chapter 988

    Chapter 988


    Mark nced at her, puzzled by her agitation.


    ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. I won¡¯t allow her to have blood on her hands.¡±


    Josie gradually calmed down. Indeed, as a pure youngdy, she must not be associated with the act of


    taking a life.


    Mark gave her a prating look. ¡°You¡¯ve never been a mother, so you wouldn¡¯t understand the


    lengths parents will go to for their children.¡±


    The weather was splendid that day, with sunlight streaming through the open roof of the factory,


    bathing her in its warmth. Her arms felt a gentle heat, and her entire body radiated warmth.


    Yet, her heart was filled with coldness.


    ¡°You may not know, but Liana went missing when she was just eleven or twelve years old. During those


    years, our family business declined, and we couldn¡¯t provide her with the best life. However, she never


    acted like a spoiled child. No matter howte her mother and I returned home, she would always wait


    for us. Only after saying goodnight would she go to sleep.¡±


    Mark seemed to see the obedient and sensible young Liana of the past, his gaze filled with mncholy.


    ¡°She was incredibly understanding, showing immense tolerance towards everyone and everything.


    When our family was short on money, she even broke open her own piggy bank. It contained a few


    thousand dors, all of which were her hard-earned savings, and she gave it all to me.¡±


    Tears welled up in Mark¡¯s eyes as he recalled how little Liana had thrown herself into his arms, sweetly


    promising, ¡°I don¡¯t have much money, but I¡¯ll give it all to you, Daddy. Things will surely get better!¡±


    As Mark spoke, Josie was also reminded of this fragmented memory. She had yfully held Mark¡¯s


    fingers, making a pinky promise with him. ¡°Promise me! Don¡¯t lose hope, Daddy!¡±


    A fleeting sense of kinship had once existed between them.


    Josie¡¯s heart ached. The man who was once young and handsome now had white hair and a


    calcting demeanor.


    Her tears fell. Mark looked at her, feeling somewhat puzzled, but he thought she was simply moved by


    the story.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Butter on, when the Olsen family became wealthy and continued to prosper, she disappeared. For


    over a decade, she lived a life of hardship. Now that she has finally returned, I want to give her the best


    life possible. Can you understand that?¡±


    Mark looked at the woman shedding tears, his voice softened as he asked, ¡°Josie,


    ¡°Was your father good to you? I believe if he were here today, he would have made the same choice.¡±


    My father¡­


    Josie managed a broken smile, her thoughts drifting to Paul. ¡°If it were my father, he wouldn¡¯t let me get


    involved in a murder. He would have taken the me for me. He was such a good man. I loved him


    dearly.¡±


    However, he had disappeared.


    If Paul knew about the hardships she endured today, he would undoubtedly be heartbroken.


    Josie slowly turned her gaze to Mark. He had truly aged, undoubtedly weathering many storms over


    the years. She dared not imagine what his reaction would be if he were to find out that she was his


    biological daughter.


    But now, there¡¯s probably no chance to find out, right?


    ¡°After the wedding, I¡¯ll see you off. Choose any country you like, and never return in this lifetime.¡±


    He and Dexter shared the same thought.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too cunning. Leanne¡¯s marriage won¡¯t be safe with you in Wavery.¡±


    Is that so? He thinks I¡¯m cunning too.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Josie took a deep breath, agreeing to it.


    ¡°Really?¡± He was somewhat surprised.


    ¡°I just suddenly realized that life is precious and nothing else matters.¡± Josie flexed her wrist. ¡°Mr.


    Olsen, tell me, do you think there wille a day when you will regret today¡¯s decision?¡±


    Mark narrowed his eyes. ¡°Never.¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯s nothing for me to worry about.¡±

 Chapter 989

    Chapter 989


    Mark felt a chill emanating from her voice, causing his heart to sink a little.


    Before he couldprehend what was happening, the host¡¯s voice suddenly echoed from the


    television screen.


    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats. The wedding ceremony of Mr. Russell and Ms. Olsen


    is about to begin!¡±


    All the guests took their seats.


    The beautiful corridor was adorned with petals. The attention shifted to the man at the end of it. He


    stood offstage, dressed in a ck suit, appearing more solemn than usual.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Josie closed her eyes. So that¡¯s what he looks like when he gets married.


    The camera panned away, and Dexter¡¯s eyes slightly darkened. He reached into his pocket to retrieve


    his ringing phone. ¡°Speak.¡±


    The other end went silent upon hearing the vibrant voice from this side before promptly stating,


    ¡°There¡¯s still an hour left.¡±


    Dexter looked at the host and the anxious udia at the side. ¡°I can buy you at most forty minutes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Dexter turned his gaze toward Calvin, who was seated at the table and


    engaged in deep conversation with a group of industry leaders. He pursed his lips, grabbing the back of


    Calvin¡¯s cor and tugging him away. ¡°You certainly seem to be in your element.¡±


    Calvin rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°Well, I can¡¯t get married on your behalf, can I, Dex?¡±


    ¡°Get on stage.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You love to show off your useless knowledge, don¡¯t you? The stage is huge today. It gives you plenty


    of room to perform.¡±


    Before Calvin could even react, he was pushed onto the stage.


    He picked up the microphone, his face amiable as he said, ¡°As Dexter¡¯s long-time good friend, I feel it¡¯s


    necessary to share my thoughts on this special day. Over the years, this man has been¡­¡±


    He had once been a professor at a university, truly capable of delivering eloquent lectures when he


    started teaching, not to mention he was naturally adept at storytelling in his everyday life.


    udia frowned from below the stage. She made her way through the crowd and reached the tall and


    handsome man¡¯s side. ¡°Dex, what are you doing?¡±


    Dexter smiled. ¡°Mrs. Olsen, I¡¯ll only have one wedding in my life. My good friend is excited and wants to


    give a speech. You wouldn¡¯t mind, would you?¡±


    udia looked at him with a meaningful gaze and asked directly, ¡°Are you stalling for time?¡±


    The smile on Dexter¡¯s face gradually faded away.


    It seems so. udia said seriously, ¡°I don¡¯t care what you¡¯re up to. Stop it immediately. Today¡¯s


    asion is too important!¡±


    The key members of the Russell and Olsen families were present, and there were also numerous


    guests from various industries, and even live media coverage. If anything went wrong, the reputation of


    both families would be ruined.


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen, you seem tock confidence. It appears something has happened. Could you tell me what


    it is?¡± Dexter stood with his hands behind his back, turning the tables.


    ¡°What it is? Shouldn¡¯t I be the one asking you? Why did you stop my people?¡± udia couldn¡¯t reach


    Mark, which had already made her anxious. Now, she simplyid everything out on the table.


    ¡°Why did you stop Justin, then?¡± Dexter asked directly.


    ¡°He¡ª¡±


    ¡°What are you afraid of? Are you unwilling to let the truth, soon to be unearthed, be revealed at the


    wedding?¡±


    udia lowered her voice as she said anxiously, ¡°I¡¯m doing this for the sake of the Russell and Olsen


    families! Everything must wait until the wedding is over!¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen!¡± Dexter raised his voice. ¡°Your constant indecisiveness is what led to Liana getting lost!¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± udia¡¯s chest heaved in anger.


    The man looked toward the stage, his voice sounding somewhat muffled amidst the surrounding din.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to find out what it¡¯s all about? I¡¯m rather looking forward to it.¡±

 Chapter 990

    Chapter 990


    Meanwhile, Heather had been waiting for a long time to go on stage. Several times, she had urged the


    attendant to go and check.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, I¡¯m afraid we might have to wait a bit longer,¡± the attendant said.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°The ceremony is not over yet.¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯re behind schedule. Where is my mother?¡± Heather eximed, about to leave, but was


    stopped by the attendant.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, please reconsider. You¡¯re the bride today. It¡¯s not appropriate for you to go out at this time.¡±


    Indeed, she was the bride, already dressed in a pristine white wedding gown. The hem of her flowing


    skirt was adorned with tiny diamonds, shimmering with every step she took.


    Left with no other choice, Heather had to calm herself down. She sat in front of the mirror, studying her


    own features.


    ¡°Get Mr. Russell toe in. I need to talk to him.¡±


    The attendant left.


    On that day, she had deliberately chosen a distinct makeup style. She didn¡¯t mirror Josie as closely.


    Instead, she bore a closer resemnce to her true self, Rachel.


    She wanted to be herself for just one day.


    Meanwhile, outside the hotel, a tall man apanied by a doctor in a white coat carrying a case was


    stopped by a bodyguard.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you cannot enter without an invitation.¡±


    The sun was at its zenith, and the man looked anxious, his forehead covered in a sheen of fine sweat.


    ¡°We have urgent matters to attend to. You must let us in!¡±


    Matthew was fraught with anxiety, as themotion inside indicated that the wedding must have


    already begun.


    However, Josie did not send them the invitation as promised at the agreed time.


    Matthew was very worried. Where is she?


    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry. Please don¡¯t put us in a difficult position!¡± the bodyguard said, strictly adhering to his


    duties.


    Matthew nced at the doctor beside him, who didn¡¯t understand Clusian, and told him to wait a


    moment. Just then, a car sped up, and a chic woman got out from the back seat. She held a file in her


    hand, her objective clear.


    Matthew was taken aback by her decisive and swift actions. Thetter was also scrutinizing them and


    seemed to have understood something.


    ¡°You want to go in?¡±


    Matthew had no other options and simply nodded.


    Mallory hadn¡¯t nned toe today, but upon thinking of the information Calvin had asked her to


    investigate, she decided to show up after all.


    ¡°Is he¡­ a stic surgeon?¡± Mallory asked.


    Swiftly, a gleam of light sparked in Matthew¡¯s eyes as he firmly grasped Mallory¡¯s hand. ¡°So, you¡¯re one


    of us!¡±


    Mallory couldn¡¯t help butugh. She pulled out the invitation and handed it to the bodyguard. ¡°They are


    with me.¡±


    After the bodyguard finished checking, he let them in.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what the n you discussed with Josie was, but there¡¯s been an unexpected


    development. She¡¯s gone missing. I¡¯m afraid your n can¡¯t proceed as usual,¡± Mallory said in a low


    voice as she walked briskly.


    ¡°Jo is missing!¡± Matthew was shocked. ¡°Then how do we¡ª¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see how things go.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s brows furrowed in concern. Josie had approached him, requesting that he leverage his


    connections in the medicalmunity to investigate a specific individual, and once located, to


    personally escort that person back.


    He had put in a great deal of effort, and after much difficulty, he had finally returned to the country, only


    to discover that she was nowhere to be found.


    Entering the wedding venue through a side door, Mallory immediately caught sight of a familiar figure


    as she looked up.


    Calvin was standing on the stage, delivering a speech. He was wearing gold-rimmed sses, and his


    serious demeanor reminded Mallory of their school days.


    Her lips quirked up.


    Calvin had noticed her too, and he raised an eyebrow in response.


    Mallory led Matthew to a seat, then provocatively raised her wine ss in a gesture toward the man on


    stage.


    She mouthed the words, ¡°Mr. Barrett, it¡¯s been a long time.¡±

 Chapter 991

    Chapter 991


    Matthew was too conspicuous. As a former love rival, Dexter noticed him immediately.


    The bodyguard inside the venue stepped forward. ¡°We just received the news and were nning to go


    out and meet them, but unexpectedly, they were brought in here.¡±


    Dexter remained calm. ¡°Let it be.¡±


    On stage, Calvin couldn¡¯t hold on much longer. He hurriedly delivered his closing remarks, but in reality,


    no one cared about what he had to say in this context. Most of the attendees today were primarily


    interested inworking with the influential and powerful.


    udia received no response from Dexter, so she turned and headed backstage, hoping to speak with


    Heather again. However, someone stopped her.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°udia.¡±


    A well-dressed man, around forty to fifty years old, stood before her with a pleasant smile.


    ¡°Nathan?¡± udia eximed in disbelief.


    The man standing before her was none other than Mark¡¯s younger brother, Nathan Olsen. For many


    years, he had been living abroad, yet surprisingly, he had returned for this wedding.


    ¡°You seem quite surprised to see me,¡± Nathan said with a smile. ¡°Am I not wee?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. When did you return? Why didn¡¯t youe home to visit?¡±


    Nathan had always been rather ipetent, yet he had delusions of interfering in the Olsen family¡¯s


    business. He had overstepped his boundaries in the past, leading to Mark banishing him to live abroad.


    He had never returned in all these years.


    Mark did not like his younger brother.


    ¡°I was afraid that Mark would be angry when he saw me, but today presented a good opportunity for


    me to sincerely apologize to him. I wonder if you could help me.¡± Nathan¡¯s face was filled with


    anticipation.


    ¡°Of course. But he¡¯s not here today, so you might have to wait.¡±


    Nathan narrowed his eyes. ¡°His daughter has been found. Why didn¡¯t hee to see her on her


    wedding day? Could it be his health¡­¡±


    ¡°No,¡± udia quickly responded. ¡°He¡¯s held up by something.¡±


    Truth be told, even she was puzzled. Mark should have been happily present today, but he didn¡¯t show


    up. It was very strange indeed.


    Nathan suddenly had a moment of realization, then continued to inquire about Liana. ¡°I feel guilty


    towards my niece. I want to apologize to her in person.¡±


    There was a flicker in udia¡¯s eyes.


    At that moment, someone suddenly broke into the dressing room through the window. Heather was


    startled, looking incredulously at the person before her.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Morgan jumped down from the window, walked up to Heather, and lifted her chin. ¡°Ms. Olsen, we¡¯ve


    met before.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bastille!¡± Heather was surprised to find that he had already returned to Wavery. ¡°What are you


    doing?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all intelligent people. Let¡¯s get straight to the point, shall we? Where is Josie?¡±


    Heather was forced to tilt her head back. She scoffed, ¡°Why must you make things difficult for me, Mr.


    Bastille? I have no idea.¡±


    ¡°If you have no idea, then who in this world would?¡± Morgan increased his grip. Laura couldn¡¯t pinpoint


    the exact location, so he had to take matters into his own hands.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, I¡¯ve managed to divert the attention of all the bodyguards outside. If you don¡¯t want to miss


    this wedding, tell me the truth.¡±


    Heather¡¯s mind was filled with chaos as she quickly formted a n.


    ¡°You can stop pondering. I know everything about you.¡± Morgan shattered her illusions directly.


    Just then, udia managed to slip away from Nathan. She knocked on the door and called out,


    ¡°Leanne, can Ie in?¡±


    ¡°Moth¡ª¡± Morgan covered her mouth. He whispered into her ear, ¡°If you don¡¯t speak up, I¡¯ll tell udia


    right now that you¡¯re not Liana, and you stole everything you have from Josie.¡±


    Each word, each sentence, pierced her heart like a dagger.

 Chapter 992

    Chapter 992


    Heather cried out, her face flushed red.


    udia continued to knock on the door. ¡°Leanne? Are you there?¡±


    Morgan whispered softly, ¡°Either way, don¡¯t be foolish.¡±


    Heather felt a chill run through her body. She pushed Morgan away and said, ¡°I can tell you, but only


    after the wedding is over. Otherwise, why should I trust you?¡±


    Morgan lightly tapped his cheek with the tip of his tongue.


    Heather grabbed a pen, quickly wrote a line of text on a piece of paper, and then ced it inside a


    small lockbox. After securing the lock, she handed it to Morgan. ¡°Once the wedding is over, I¡¯ll tell you


    the password.¡±


    Morgan stared at the lockbox and didn¡¯t respond immediately.


    ¡°Mr. Bastille, I know you care about Josie, but if you let her ruin my wedding, there¡¯s a high chance she


    might end up with Dexter again. That¡¯s not an oue you want to see, right?¡±


    The best strategy was to win his heart.


    Morgan snorted coldly, snatching the box away. ¡°I¡¯ll be watching you from below the stage. If you dare


    to y any tricks, don¡¯t me me for being rude.¡±


    With that, he turned and left.


    Heather breathed a sigh of relief, stepped forward to close the window, and then opened the door.


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    udia held her hand, examining it closely, and asked with a hint of suspicion, ¡°Why has your makeup


    come off?¡±


    Heather tried to remain calm. ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s too hot in here. Did you need something? Why hasn¡¯t the


    wedding started yet?¡±


    udia was about to say something when an attendant hurried over. ¡°Ms. Olsen, it¡¯s time for you to go


    on stage.¡±


    Everything was going ording to n, and Heather breathed another sigh of relief. She no longer


    wanted to waste time with udia. She simply wanted to step onto the stage and put her worries to


    rest.


    ¡°I¡¯ming!¡±


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± udia tried to grab her, but she missed.


    The atmosphere was lively. Dexter had already made his entrance. Dressed in a suit, Heather, wearing


    a wedding dress, walked slowly down the aisle, arm in arm with udia.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    The camera panned to Heather, who was beaming and radiating happiness.


    Flower children on either side continuously tossed petals into the air. She looked like a princess from a


    fairy tale, earning admiration from everyone.


    udia, holding her, slowly approached Dexter. Her facade was calm and collected, but beneath the


    surface, her emotions were a whirlwind ofplexity.


    Everyone in the audience watched this dreamlike scene unfold. Some were envious, others jealous.


    When Dexter married Josie, they didn¡¯t even have a wedding ceremony. Now, with Liana, they were


    making such a grand spectacle.


    ¡°Idiot,¡± Summer muttered under her breath, sitting in the audience.


    At this table, everyone was family. Laura sat right next to her. ¡°Sum¡­¡±


    ¡°What are you looking at? You¡¯re no different.¡±


    Laura pursed her lips. Zach, who was beside her, didn¡¯t rush to her defense. Instead, he watched the


    scene on the stage with ease andposure.


    Out of the corner of her eye, she nced at Morgan, who was seated in the distance. His posture was


    upright, and he was casually fiddling with a box, seemingly indifferent to everything happening around


    him.


    Josie and Mark were also witnessing these scenes unfold live before their eyes.


    They had been forced to listen to Calvin¡¯s speech for nearly an hour, and finally, the crucial moment


    had arrived.


    The wedding dress that adorned Heather had once been Josie¡¯s dream. But now, as she looked at it,


    she felt nothing but disgust.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, under normal circumstances, today would have been the day you walked her down the


    aisle. Yet, here you are, staying with me. Don¡¯t you feel any regret?¡±


    The numbness in her body had gradually subsided, reced by a spreading pain.


    Mark focused on the screen. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter as long as I can see her get married.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, calcting the time in her head. If everything had gone ording to n, Justin


    should have already arrived.

 Chapter 993

    Chapter 993


    However, she was unaware of the situation at the venue.


    Everything was proceeding in an orderly manner. Josie couldn¡¯t help but think it must have failed.


    The scene shifted, revealing many familiar faces seated below the stage. The director was savvy,


    ensuring each shot featured someone of importance. Even Morgan was present. He appeared rxed,


    his head bowed as he busied himself with something unknown.


    She wanted to get up, wondering if he would notice that she disappeared.


    Just then, she caught sight of a familiar figure.


    It was brief, but very clear.


    It was Justin.


    He was discreetly crossing the corner.


    The camera cuts were incredibly swift, but Josie still managed to recognize him. He arrived safely. But


    what about Ruby?


    Upon seeing this scene, she couldn¡¯t help but clench her fists, her pulse racing. Is there still a chance¡­


    However, before her hopes could ignite, she immediately saw Larry trailing behind Justin.


    How could this happen? Has Dexter discovered Justin?


    How much does he know? Josie¡¯s heartbeat slowly returned to its normal pace.


    Meanwhile, when Heather, dressed in her wedding gown, approached Dexter, a voice echoed in his


    earpiece. ¡°We¡¯ve brought Justin in, and Ruby too. They¡¯re now backstage.¡±


    Without a change in his expression, Dexter calmly took Heather¡¯s hand and led her to the center.


    ¡°But the matter brought up by Ruby is quite significant. It could ruin the wedding. Mr. Russell, should


    we wait until it¡¯s over?¡±


    udia did not deliver a speech. Instead, she let the young people speak for themselves.


    Heather took the microphone from the host, recounting her admiration for the man, as well as the


    hardships they had endured over so many years.


    Dexter raised his hand to cover his lips, whispering, ¡°Whatever Justin wants to do, let him do it.¡±


    He didn¡¯t even bother to ask what the matter was.


    Larry was shocked. ¡°But this could endanger Russell Group¡­¡±


    ¡°Let him do it,¡± Dexter said calmly yet firmly.


    It seemed as if he was merely discussing what to eatter. Everything here had nothing to do with him.


    After delivering her speech, Heather looked tearfully at the man beside her. Apanied by the


    melodious background music, she said, ¡°Dex, today we can finally hold each other¡¯s hands, feeling


    everyone¡¯s blessings as we step into the realm of matrimony. From this day forward, as your wife, I will


    shoulder the responsibilities of a spouse, supporting you in every way, whether in poverty or wealth,


    through good times and bad. I will never let go of your hand until death.¡±


    As she spoke, she felt as if she could see her future days sailing smoothly ahead, and tears


    uncontrobly slid down her cheeks.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Dexter curved his lips, returning a smile.


    Many people in the audience raised their phones to take pictures.


    Theizens who were watching online went wild, flooding the screen withments that read: Oh


    my! So romantic! Liana looks like she¡¯s super in love! Dexter is so handsome! It¡¯s the wedding of my


    dreams.


    In the abandoned factory, Josie watched the scene unfold, her mind filled with shes of her past with


    Dexter.


    In this world, there simply were no things thatsted forever.


    A contented smile graced Mark¡¯s face, his eyes brimming with tears. There was nothing more joyful


    than witnessing his daughter¡¯s wedding.


    After the vows were recited, the host instructed the couple to exchange rings.


    Dexter epted the diamond ring handed over by the attendant and gently ced it on Heather¡¯s


    finger. He heard her whisper, ¡°Dex, after the wedding, shall we go get our marriage certificate?¡±


    Dexter did not respond. His grip on her hand tightened, and he smiled at her.


    This action led Heather to believe it was a tacit agreement.


    In this world, there is no man who cannot be won over. Given enough time together, feelings will


    inevitably develop.


    At that time, Heather was still quite confident.

 Chapter 994

    Chapter 994


    Once the ceremony concluded, it was time for the wedding toast.


    Heather had changed into her wedding reception dress.


    ¡°Congrattions, Mr. Russell. You¡¯ve finally won the heart of your beloved,¡± Morgan said, his voice


    tinged with a mix of sarcasm and sincerity. He raised his wine ss, his face clearly disying more


    joy than mockery.


    Dexter looked at him without anger, clinked sses with him, and replied, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Morgan gazed deeply into Heather¡¯s eyes. ¡°Congrattions, Ms. Olsen¡­¡± He paused for a moment. ¡°I


    should be calling you Mrs. Russell now. Congrattions on achieving your wish.¡±


    Heather maintained aposed smile, though her palms were drenched in sweat. The man before her


    had spoken with a beaming smile, but only she knew the malice he concealed beneath his facade.


    ¡°May you also achieve what you desire, Mr. Bastille.¡±


    Only the two of them could discern the subtle nuances within those words.


    Matthew watched from the corner, his hands pressing down on the table. He gritted his teeth as he


    eximed, ¡°I knew it when Jo married him years ago. This man is not trustworthy!¡±


    He was too conspicuous, his ns too intricate, to the point that even Heather, who stood beside him


    at that moment, might not fullyprehend them.


    Mallory¡¯s expression remained calm. She absentmindedly swirled the wine ss in her hand. ¡°Dr.


    Sander, did Josie inform you of the reason for bringing the stic surgeon here?¡±


    Matthew was taken aback. ¡°She only asked me to do this. She didn¡¯t tell me why.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Now that Josie had disappeared, he had no way of knowing the reason.


    ¡°Do you have any news of Josie? I¡¯m genuinely concerned about her. She hardly has anyone she can


    trust in Wavery,¡± Matthew anxiously inquired.


    Ignoring the persistent, burning gaze that she couldn¡¯t shake off, Mallory deliberately moved closer to


    Matthew. She whispered in his ear, ¡°I don¡¯t know either.¡±


    Matthew¡¯s ears burned.


    Mallory resumed her proper position and said, ¡°Let¡¯s observe for a while.¡±


    Meanwhile, as Dexter and Heather toasted the Olsens, the elders had nothing but words of praise and


    blessings to offer until they reached Nathan.


    He rose leisurely. ¡°Dexter, it¡¯s been many years since Ist saw you.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows slightly, studying the man for a few seconds before recognizing him. ¡°Mr.


    Nathan, you¡¯ve returned.¡±


    Nathan had gone abroad after Liana went missing. In the blink of an eye, more than a decade had


    passed.


    Nathan nodded in satisfaction, then turned his gaze to Heather. Seeing her surprised expression, he


    said, ¡°Leanne, I wouldn¡¯t mind if Dexter forgot about me, but how could you also not remember? When


    you were little, I often took you out to y. Have you forgotten?¡±


    Nathan had appeared out of nowhere, and no one had informed Heather about him. Judging by


    Dexter¡¯s demeanor, she assumed he was a person of some importance. She paused for a moment,


    then quickly greeted him with a smile, ¡°Uncle Nathan, it¡¯s been a long time.¡±


    Nathan¡¯s eyes unwaveringly followed the shifts in her expression as he attempted to discern any clues


    from them.


    He responded with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s good to have you back. I missed you dearly all those years you were


    lost.¡±


    Heather was figuring out how to respond when an attendant rushed over from behind her and


    whispered in her ear, ¡°Can we start ying the music video now?¡±


    Feeling relieved and delighted, she replied, ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    The wedding had progressed to the dining segment, and ording to the schedule, it was time to y


    the wedding video.


    Dexter was unaware, but over the past month, Heather had collected numerous photos of them


    together from the media. She had meticulously created a video, all in an effort to convey her sincerity.


    Soon, the venue was filled with melodious background music. Heather¡¯s video appeared on the big


    screen, capturing everyone¡¯s attention. At that moment, Dexter was called aside by Larry, as there was


    official business that needed to be attended to.

 Chapter 995

    Chapter 995


    Dexter had been awake for two consecutive days and nights. Even the skillfully applied makeup by a


    top-tier artist couldn¡¯t conceal the dark circles under his eyes.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Leaning against the wall, he listened casually to Larry¡¯s report, pressing his fingers against his temples,


    completely exhausted.


    ¡°Has Josie been found yet?¡±


    ¡°Our team at Olsen Residence is still searching, but Mark has disappeared. We¡¯re not sure if there¡¯s


    any connection.¡±


    Dexter opened his eyes.


    Not far away, Mallory nced at the man in the corner receiving a report, then at the sweet wedding


    video ying. He couldn¡¯t help but mutter, ¡°B*stard.¡±


    Meanwhile, Josie felt relieved as the wedding had finally concluded without any unexpected incidents.


    Her worried and hopeful heart finally calmed down.


    I should never have had any expectations.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen, it¡¯s about time. Whether you want to kill me or let me go, please hurry up.¡± Josie¡¯s gaze fell


    on her injured wrists. ¡°It hurts too much¡­¡±


    Her voice was soft, yet it reached the depths of Mark¡¯s heart.


    Furrowing his brows, he took out his phone from his pocket, about to notify someone toe in. Just


    then, the background music on the television abruptly changed, shifting from soothing to intense. The


    apanying visuals also underwent a dramatic transformation.


    Everyone turned to look simultaneously.


    Suddenly, Heather¡¯s solo photos began to y on the big screen.


    She sat in the caf¨¦, sketching in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, and attended banquets with


    udia and Mark in a respectful and intimate manner. She embodied the essence of a sophisticated


    lady.


    Heather stood frozen in ce. She had no idea who had taken these photos, and they weren¡¯t included


    in the wedding video she had prepared.


    What¡¯s happening?


    The photos were disyed at an impressive speed. Once the images showcasing her socialite lifestyle


    concluded, a significant picture emerged. It showed her standing beside Arnold in a shy dress. This


    photo represented the pinnacle of her attempts to win favor.


    Next came candid photos from her university days, her face radiating youth, her smile brimming with


    joy. Following those were pictures from her high school years.


    Whispers filled the room as everyone present began murmuring among themselves. she had


    undergone extensive stic surgery, and the transformation was too drastic.


    Taken aback, Heather stepped back, the ss in her hand slipping to the ground. What¡¯s happening?


    How did this happen?


    In contrast to Mark¡¯s confusion in front of the screen, Josie immediately stood up, her heart filled with


    excitement. The music video she had prepared in advance was being yed. Did my n seed?


    The media on the scene were the first to react. They quickly realized that a significant story was


    unfolding before them. Without wasting a moment, they focused their cameras on the screen and


    began broadcasting live across the entirework.


    The photo slideshow hadn¡¯t ended yet, tracing all the way back to Heather¡¯s middle school, elementary


    school, and even kindergarten days. Those who were aware could discern that her childhood photos


    werepletely different from those of the missing Liana.


    After the photo slideshow, various examination certificates of Heather from her childhood to adulthood


    were disyed. The name written on all of them, without exception, was Rachel Strauss.


    udia¡¯s heart almost stopped beating on the spot. She realized that the truth was about to be


    revealed.


    Following the disy of examination certificates, the music escted as it started showing clips of


    Heather frequenting a stic surgery hospital in Japrium.


    Matthew suddenly rose to his feet, realizing that the n was in motion and recognizing his own role in


    it.

 Chapter 996

    Chapter 996


    Many others at the scene had also stood up.


    Heather nced around frantically and lunged forward. ¡°Stop! Stop the video!¡±


    However, the person controlling the screen was no longer the one she had arranged. She rushed over,


    only to see a tall, thin man standing there. He was wearing a baseball cap and gave her a meaningful


    nce.


    Heather wanted to step forward and confront him. ¡°Who are you? What is your purpose?¡±


    Justin pushed her, causing her to fall to the ground. With that, her heart sank heavily.


    Her response was incredibly quick. While searching the room for Dexter, she simultaneously blocked


    the crowd¡¯s view of the screen. ¡°Stop watching! Everyone, stop watching! These are not true!¡±


    Dexter was nowhere to be seen, and the guests did not listen to her.


    The video continued to y, showcasing aparison of her photos before and after stic surgery.


    Each alteration was clearly visible.


    In the corner, Summer witnessed this scene. She promptly returned to her original spot, unusually


    clear-headed. It¡¯s all over. Heather can no longer hide it!


    Morgan¡¯s face was pale, and he tightened his grip around the lockbox in his hand. He was lost in his


    own thoughts.


    At this point, everyone present, even those watching the live stream online, was in an uproar.


    Netizen A: What does this mean? Is Heather not the real Liana? Did she have stic surgery?


    Netizen B: Indeed¡­ She doesn¡¯t resemble Ms. Olsen from the Olsen family before her stic surgery.


    Netizen C: That¡¯s outrageous. How was her DNA test approved?


    No one had time to contemte how the wedding had be so chaotic. They could only specte


    about who Heather truly was.


    In the abandoned factory, Mark also stood up. He was a little unsteady on his feet, his lips pale as he


    watched everything unfold.


    On the screen, Heather stumbled onto the stage, snatching the microphone from the stunned host¡¯s


    hand. ¡°It¡¯s all fabricated. These are rumors. Don¡¯t believe them!¡±


    Her hairstyle was messy, with her hair cascading freely around her. She appeared flustered as she cast


    an angry look at the crowd.


    The video had paused, and an eerie silence had fallen upon the scene. Only the barrage ofments


    from the live media broadcast continued to flood the screen relentlessly. The number of online viewers


    had already surpassed a hundred thousand.


    The events of that day were trending on various social media tforms.


    The person Dexter married was not the daughter of the Olsen family. There was a high possibility that


    she was an imposter. What could be more significant than this?


    Suddenly, someone at the scene spoke up. ¡°How do you exin that photo?¡±


    Heather immediately retorted, ¡°It¡¯s edited!¡±


    ¡°What about the name Rachel Strauss?¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s not me!¡± Heather¡¯s throat was dry, and she mustered all her strength to say, ¡°I don¡¯t know who


    yed a prank at my wedding, but I hope everyone can see the truth. It¡¯s ridiculous. How could I be an


    imposter? DNA doesn¡¯t lie!¡±


    She was reluctant to ept that the happiness within her reach was about to slip away, nor was she


    willing to ept that all her efforts had been in vain.


    Yet, fear had clouded her mind. She failed to realize that if her past photos and information could be


    unearthed, it implied that ample evidence had already been gathered.


    Once again, an eerie silence fell over the crowd. Then, a voice rang out. ¡°I can confirm that the video is


    true!¡±


    Heather looked over sharply.


    It was Matthew. He led a doctor dressed in a white coat onto the stage and faced Heather. ¡°Ms.


    Strauss, he looks familiar, doesn¡¯t he? You guys meet again!¡±


    Heather took two steps back. Who is he? How did he find the doctor who performed my stic


    surgery¡­


    ¡°Ms. Strauss, we meet again,¡± the doctor said politely.

 Chapter 997

    Chapter 997


    He spoke in Japriumian. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I have no choice but to step forward and testify against you for


    my own personal reasons. Over the past year, I indeed performed stic surgery on you.¡±


    Heather stared in disbelief at everything unfolding before her. When Arnold had arranged for her


    doctor¡¯s appointment, he had explicitly assured her of utmost confidentiality and that no one would find


    out. Yet now, not only had it been discovered, but she was also being confronted about it.


    ¡°Dr. Yamagami, how could you do this? You can¡¯t make money against your conscience¡­¡± She made a


    last-ditch effort.


    Matthew calmly positioned the doctor behind him, tranting his words verbatim. Only then did he say,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disappoint you, Ms. Strauss. I once studied in Japrium under an exchange program and


    have a deep acquaintance with your stic surgeon.¡±


    Heather took a deep breath, feeling as if she would suffocate in the next second. ¡°So, what does this


    prove?¡±


    Matthew took the folder handed over by Kai Yamagami. He had insisted time and again that its


    contents could only be revealed at the scene. As he opened it, he said, ¡°It proves you¡¯ve always been


    purposefully imitating others.¡±


    Matthew walked toward Justin, pulling out a photo. When he nced at it, he nearly froze in his tracks.


    Within a few seconds, he exerted all his strength to calm himself down. He ced the photo under the


    projector, allowing everyone in the room to see it.


    ¡°This person¡­ is Josie Warren!¡± Matthew¡¯s voice was trembling as he gradually revealed the truth.


    Everyone saw that on the screen was aparison photo of Josie and Heather. The two of them


    looked strikingly simr.


    It wasn¡¯t a coincidence after all.


    Matthew took out a USB drive from the folder and plugged it in. A surveince video appeared,


    showing Heather handing Josie¡¯s photo to the doctor. ¡°I want my chin to look more like hers.¡±


    The entire room was in an uproar, and Heather stepped back. Because she stepped on the hem of her


    dress, she fell to the ground and was so weak that she couldn¡¯t get up.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    The truth was on the verge of being revealed.


    Heather was like a fish on the brink of death, struggling for itsst breath. ¡°I¡¯ve told you, it¡¯s all


    photoshopped. Not just the photos, even the videos can be edited.¡±


    She remained stubborn.


    Morgan was unwilling to watch this farce any longer. He knew the situation well and that Heather


    wouldn¡¯t reveal Josie¡¯s whereabouts. He tossed the lockbox into the trash bin and then left with long


    strides.


    ¡°Rachel.¡± An ordinary female voice suddenly rang out.


    Heather turned toward the source of the voice, and to her astonishment, she saw her once best friend


    and inhaled sharply. How could this be? How could she¡­


    Ruby slowly emerged from backstage, visibly nervous. She was trying to control her anxiety.


    ¡°Havinge this far, are you still going to continue deceiving everyone?¡±


    She stood before Heather, who tilted her head back to look at her and whose eyes were filled with pure


    hatred. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yes, I shouldn¡¯t have exposed you. After all, we were once so close.¡± Ruby spoke bitterly. ¡°I still


    remember back in high school when we were both penniless, surviving only on relief funds for our


    meals. We were always hungry, but we never forgot to look out for each other. Through three years of


    trials and tribtions, we were always at our best.¡±


    Despite the hardships they had been through together, Ruby had never expected that after entering


    university, Rachel would sever all ties with her.


    ¡°Then why would you¡ª¡± Heather red at her.


    ¡°During our university years, I tried reaching out to you numerous times, but to no avail. I¡¯d rather


    believe that something had happened to you than think that you had given up on our friendship.¡±

 Chapter 998

    Chapter 998


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing well. People are inherently selfish. You disguised yourself for the sake of your future, and


    I have no choice but to betray you to get what I want,¡± Ruby spoke, her words filled with realism. Her


    gaze, once innocent and passionate, nowcked those qualities.


    The person standing before her was nothing more than a tool she could use to fulfill her basic needs for


    food and warmth.


    People grow up and change.


    Heather reached out, intending to scratch Ruby¡¯s face. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Ruby took a step back, picking up the microphone she had dropped on the ground. These past few


    days, she had been traveling day and night, even receiving death threats. She had endured all the


    challenges and difficulties up to this point for this very moment.


    ¡°My name is Ruby Langdon. I was once Rachel¡¯s best friend. I can confirm that she has been an


    orphan since childhood. I can also verify the authenticity of those documents, as I have experienced all


    of those events alongside her!¡±


    The audience had witnessed so many shocking revtions today that they momentarily forgot to react.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    All they knew was that the likelihood of Rachel being an imposter was growing increasinglyrger.


    It was hard to imagine that she had manipted the entire Olsen family.


    udia¡¯s head spun as her entire body trembled uncontrobly. She could only watch in despair as


    Rachel¡¯s true identity was revealed, leading to the downfall of the Olsen family¡¯s reputation.


    She had a premonition, but she just wasn¡¯t mentally prepared.


    She was on the verge of copsing onto the ground when arge hand reached out, steadying her and


    helping her stand upright.


    Surprised, udia turned around and saw Dexter¡¯s face.


    His gaze held a hint of indifference. Understanding dawned on udia. ¡°When did you find out?¡±


    Dexter remained polite as he said, ¡°A few hours ago. I figured it out a bit earlier than you, but it was still


    toote. I should have guessed it two years ago.¡±


    He should have guessed it from the very first moment heid eyes on Josie.


    Rachel scanned the room, looking disheveled. She personified the agony of brutal rejection. Her


    fingers were gripped so tightly that they bled as she frantically sought a smart counterargument.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to bring up DNA again, are you?¡± Another female voice echoed from below the stage.


    Calvin, who had been drinking and enjoying the spectacle, immediately turned his attention toward the


    source of the voice upon hearing it.


    It was indeed Mallory. She held a file in her hand, making her entrance with grace and poise.


    ¡°Ms. Strauss, truth be told, I didn¡¯t want toe today. However, I thought it best to be prepared for


    any eventuality, so here I am. After all, the information I hold is more than enough to expose your lies!¡±


    Mallory pulled out the documents and ced them in front of Rachel. ¡°Do you see it? This is your DNA


    report.¡±


    Rachel¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.


    ¡°Take a look at this one too. It was this very report that allowed you to impersonate Liana. It should look


    quite familiar, shouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    That was the DNA maternity test for Josie and udia, confirming their blood rtion to be ny-nine


    percent.


    Upon seeing this, Rachel immediately tried to snatch it away, but Mallory easily dodged her. She


    walked over to Justin and said, ¡°When the test was first made, one copy was burned by Josie. She


    didn¡¯t know that I had another one just in case of any unforeseen circumstances.¡±


    Rachel looked at her back in despair.


    Mallory presented the DNA test results for everyone to see. Everyone saw that Josie¡¯s name was


    written on it.


    Upon seeing the results on the screen, udia tightened her grip on Dexter¡¯s hand. She felt as if her


    heart was being gnawed by ants. The pain was indescribable.


    ¡°It really is her¡­¡±


    She didn¡¯t notice Dexter¡¯s indifferent face. His eyes were bloodshot. He was barely holding back,


    preventing himself from losingposure.

 Chapter 999

    Chapter 999


    The onlinemunity was already abuzz with public opinion.


    Netizen A: ¡°Damn! What¡¯s shocking isn¡¯t that Heather is not Liana, but that Josie is Liana!¡±


    Netizen B: ¡°Oh my God! The world has gone mad!¡±


    Netizen C: ¡°No wonder people have always said that Josie looks like Heather. In reality, it¡¯s not that


    Josie resembles Heather, but rather, Heather resembles Josie!¡±


    This significant revtion sent shockwaves through the hearts of many prominent individuals in


    attendance.


    Justin, who stood by Mallory¡¯s side, couldn¡¯t believe what had happened. He had been seething with


    rage, but now hisplexion had turned ashen. He realized that Josie had manipted him into doing


    all those things not because she despised Heather, but because she wanted to reim what was


    rightfully hers.


    Down below, numerous staff members were bustling about. Isaac raised his hand to summon a senior


    executive. ¡°Immediately attend to the tasks we haven¡¯t finished yet. Be quick!¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    The events of today were monumental. Rachel was not the Liana that the Olsen family had been


    searching for all these years. It was clear then that today¡¯s wedding would not proceed. Dexter would


    not marry an imposter.


    At the same time, Russell Group¡¯s stocks continued to plummet, shifting from a brief period of positive


    performance to the present state of intricate uncertainty.


    Zachariah had no interest in getting involved in the dispute. He sat backstage, holding hisptop and


    checking the stock prices, genuinely worried for Dexter.


    He had known long ago that such a situation would arise, but he had still tacitly allowed it. He had even


    encouraged Josie¡¯s people to carry out the n topletion.


    For the first time in decades, Mark wore a shocked expression. His eyes were rimmed with red as he


    stared intently at Josie beside him.


    With tears welling up in her eyes, she watched as her friends on the scene bravely took the lead for her


    n.


    She had thought it didn¡¯t matter, but when the evidence wasid out one by one for the world to see,


    she realized that she actually cared.


    She was bothered by her stolen identity, bothered by the humiliation she had endured over the years.


    Mark could hardly believe it. The person standing before him was the biological daughter he had been


    searching for all these years.


    The person he had cherished and valued so much had turned out to be a mere imposter.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    For the sake of that imposter, he had said and done many things that hurt Josie.


    Mark found it hard to ept what was happening. He clutched his chest, struggling to stay upright.


    Suddenly, he rushed toward Josie, grabbed her hand, and swiftly pulled down the clothing from her


    shoulder.


    An act that should have been seen as highly disrespectful, at that moment, appeared remarkably tragic


    and solemn.


    Josie remained motionless, allowing him to tug and pull at her. Then, she said nonchntly, ¡°I have a


    birthmark.¡±


    The gentle tugging motion of Mark came to an abrupt halt. He saw the red cloud on Josie¡¯s fair


    shoulder de.


    ¡°It¡¯s her¡­ It really is her¡­¡±


    Josie looked into Mark¡¯s eyes, which were filled with despair and pain, and she couldn¡¯t help but let her


    tears flow freely. Sobbing, she asked, ¡°Do you feel happy or regretful now that you¡¯ve confirmed it, Mr.


    Olsen?¡±


    A few hours ago, he had told her that he would never regret it.


    ¡°So that¡¯s what it means¡­¡±


    Mark¡¯s hand was shaking terribly. He asked through gritted teeth, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say anything?¡±


    Josie wanted tough, but she couldn¡¯t. ¡°It¡¯s a pity. I found out toote.¡±


    Meanwhile, Mallory signaled for the video to resume ying.


    The video had reached its end when Josie appeared. Under the dim lighting of the camera, she calmly


    removed her overcoat. Then, she turned around, facing the camera to reveal her iconic birthmark.


    She didn¡¯t utter a single word, yet it was this very silence that resonated profoundly with everyone.

 Chapter 1000

    Chapter 1000


    The video concluded at this point, as the evidence was already abundant.


    The fact that Josie was Liana had already been firmly established.


    She had presented the evidence to everyone, making her grievances and determination known to all.


    Numerous thoughts raced through udia¡¯s mind, leaving her bewildered. Dexter helped her to sit


    down, then finally stepped into the public¡¯s view, assuring everyone that he had not vanished.


    Rachel saw the man approaching her with steady steps. Her heart no longer fluttered with excitement;


    only fear remained.


    Dexter had a slender figure. He slowly crouched down, his facial expression concealed from Rachel¡¯s


    sight, leaving her uncertain about his thoughts.


    ¡°I¡¯ll only ask you one thing. Where is Josie?¡± he inquired.


    He was at his breaking point. Everything that had transpired that day was in pursuit of an answer.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Rachel looked at him, suddenly realizing that he had known all along. Everything that had urred had


    unfolded because he had allowed it. Otherwise, these individuals wouldn¡¯t have appeared so


    seamlessly, one by one.


    She burst intoughter,ughing so hysterically that she could barely catch her breath. ¡°You want to


    meet Josie? In your dreams!¡±


    Upon hearing her words, Dexter abruptly reached out, gripping her throat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t me me for not warning you. When I torment someone, I can make them experience a fate


    worse than death.¡±


    Forced to tilt her head back, Rachel felt her breath being taken away. A sharp pain coursed through her


    lungs, and through clenched teeth, she retorted, ¡°You can¡¯t possibly give me a chance to live after all


    this. I want Josie to apany me in death! It¡¯s about time!¡±


    This sentence made Dexter involuntarily tighten his grip as though he was holding a fragile bird. He


    turned his head and called out, ¡°Moses!¡±


    He was reluctant to admit that his heart had indeed trembled at the threat.


    Moses hurried over. ¡°Olsen Residence is toorge. We¡¯re still searching, but we¡¯ve almost covered the


    entire area!¡±


    Dexter abruptly threw Rachel onto the ground. Hearing the sound of flesh colliding with the floor, he


    frowned in disgust. ¡°You¡¯d better pray you don¡¯t die too quickly and that you still have the strength to


    talk back to me!¡±


    Gone was even the slightest semnce of the charade he had put on just a few hours ago. At this


    moment, all he felt for her was disgust.


    Rachel copsed onto the ground, gazing at the surreal surroundings in a daze.


    ¡°Dexter, you can¡¯t treat me like this. I am your wife¡­¡±


    Dexter stepped over her and continued walking straight ahead.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± she shouted. ¡°Since it hase to this, I just want to know when you found out!¡±


    It was the same question, a question that caused Dexter¡¯s brain to throb in pain. Waves of endless


    regret washed over him. He could have discovered the truth sooner.


    He stood still, his back turned toward Rachel. ¡°Perhaps it was the first time I saw Josie in a white


    dress.¡±


    This was the truth. The first time he saw Josie in white, he began to harbor doubts. She bore a striking


    resemnce to the person in his memory, a likeness that no one else could imitate.


    Later, more and more clues began to surface, including an instance before the bomb exploded when


    Josie even said, ¡°Choose white.¡±


    A mix of jealousy and hatred stirred within Rachel, and sheughed.


    ¡°How sweet. But Dexter, since you had already suspected it, why did you still let things escte? Is


    Josie¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, Dexter had already turned around once more. Swiftly and


    ruthlessly, he stepped on her hand. ¡°That¡¯s because she desired it to happen today.¡±


    Josie wanted to reveal the truth to everyone on this significant day.


    He allowed her to continue in this manner, even fanning the mes.

 Chapter 1001

    Chapter 1001


    Rachel felt as if her fingertips were broken, or perhaps it was the sound of her heart shattering.


    Her eyes grew dim as she said, ¡°You treat her so well, yet she remains oblivious. Only I am aware of it.


    The one who truly loves you is me.¡±


    She was infatuated with him.


    ¡°Actually, our first meeting wasn¡¯t in Arnold¡¯s office. The first time I saw you was three years ago.¡±


    At that time, Arnold had decided to introduce her to Dexter. He had specifically driven her out to meet


    him.


    During that time, he was presiding over an economic conference. The young man, although indifferent,


    exuded confidence and radiance. In every move he made, he possessed the potential to make any


    woman fall in love with him.


    Rachel sat in the corner, quietly observing as he sessfully presided over the entire conference. She


    couldn¡¯t understand the professional jargon, but she felt that such a remarkable man would inevitably


    be hers one day.


    After the event ended, she was thest to leave. Dexter seemed to be waiting for someone and also


    leftte. The two of them crossed paths, almost brushing shoulders as they passed each other.


    Rachel still vividly remembered the moment her heart fluttered.


    Arnold had promised her that she would eventually be Mrs. Russell. However, before she could


    learn everything and prepare herself, she found out that Dexter had secretly married an ordinary


    woman.


    What hurt even more was that Arnold wanted her to imitate her, even to rece her.


    Rachel had no choice but to undergo stic surgery to alter her appearance, to approach him from an


    unequal footing. Until today, she had given her all to reach this point, but everything was over now.


    She had spent such a long time, finally able to stand by his side, yet the lies were inevitably exposed,


    and everything turned into an illusion.


    Rachel was unwilling to ept it, her eyes filled with tears as she looked at this distinguished man who


    had lost control because of Josie.


    ¡°Dexter, I¡¯ve put up many false pretenses, but my feelings for you are absolutely genuine, even more


    genuine than Josie¡¯s feelings for you!¡±


    Her tears fell onto the clear floor, a tile she had meticulously selected for her wedding.


    She had even naively thought that after getting married, she could free herself from Arnold¡¯s control,


    prioritizing only Dexter¡¯s interests.


    Dexter remained unfazed. He lifted his leg, didn¡¯t even spare her another nce, and walked away with


    an air of nonchnce.


    ¡°Why? Is it because I¡¯m not a daughter of the Olsen family? Why do you have to treat me like this?¡±


    Rachel shouted hysterically and heartbrokenly.


    Dexter ignored everything, and Moses quickly caught up with him. ¡°The housekeeper has sent a


    message. Ms. Warren has been found in the abandoned factory at the back of the mountain with


    Mark!¡±


    ¡°Keep a close eye on Rachel. Don¡¯t let her escape!¡±


    Larry nodded, but afterward, he found himself in a dilemma, unsure whether he should report it or not.


    ¡°Russell Group¡ª¡±


    ¡°Get the car!¡± Dexter interrupted him.


    Larry understood clearly and refrained from saying more.


    Meanwhile, Morgan had already arrived at Olsen Residence by car.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Due to the wedding, the security at Olsen Residence wasx. He entered boldly, and the servants


    simply couldn¡¯t stop him. ¡°Sir, you cannot go in!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m looking for someone!¡±


    ¡°Even so, you can¡¯t just enter!¡±


    Morgan could guess that Josie was inside, but he didn¡¯t know the exact location. To save time, he had


    no choice but to barge in.


    The servant tried to stop him, but Morgan spoke up directly. ¡°Mr. Olsen is in trouble. I¡¯m here to rescue


    him. If anything happens, will you take responsibility?¡±


    This statement stunned the servants, for they knew that Mark had indeed disappeared that day. They


    had searched the entire Olsen Residence but found no trace of him.


    Morgan entered straightaway. Just then, his secretary, Ryan, called. He reported the location directly,


    ¡°The drone has detected someone at the back of the mountain.¡±

 Chapter 1002

    Chapter 1002


    A glimmer of determination flickered in Morgan¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t act impulsively on your own. Our people are on their way to Olsen Residence!¡± Ryan shouted.


    Morgan immediately ended the call.


    The servants in front of him were all staring at him, filled with confusion. Morgan kicked the trash can


    next to him. ¡°Why are you just standing there? Lead the way to the back of the mountain!¡±


    His arrogance was excessive.


    In the abandoned factory, Mark, who had experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, tightly held onto


    Josie¡¯s hand, refusing to let go.


    They were covered in blood and flesh, worn down by the ropes, a sight that was shocking to behold.


    For a long time, Mark couldn¡¯t calm his emotions. He had been witnessing his daughter¡¯s suffering all


    this time, the pain of their familial bond tugging at his heartstrings.


    Josie shed a mocking smile. ¡°No matter how long you look, this wound won¡¯t heal.¡±


    Just like the pain she had endured over the years, it would leave permanent scars.


    Mark had so many words he wanted to say, but he didn¡¯t know where to begin.


    Uncertain if it was an illusion, Josie felt as though he had aged ten years overnight.


    A strange thought surged within her, making her feel uneasy. She turned her face away. ¡°Can you


    release me now? Can you refrain from sending me abroad?¡±


    Mark closed his eyes, recalling the foolish words he had spoken not long ago. Suddenly, he reached


    out and pped himself twice.


    This action left Josie frozen in ce. ¡°What are you¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Mark¡¯s apology was simply an outlet for his own anger. He didn¡¯t even dare to utter the word


    ¡°father¡± because he knew he was unworthy. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    However, before they could take two steps, Johnny, wielding his knife, approached them. He looked


    even more menacing than before. ¡°Did I say you could leave?¡±


    Instinctively, Mark moved Josie behind him, narrowing his eyes. ¡°Your loyal master is on the verge of


    ruin. Are you still willing to risk your lives for her?¡±


    When Mark thought of Rachel, he clenched his teeth in resentment.


    Johnny had naturally heard everything that had just transpired as well. Rachel¡¯s heart-wrenching cries


    made his heart ache with sympathy.


    He remembered her stubbornness and raised his knife. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    Josie understood clearly that he was an ouw. Rachel was in trouble, so he would act even more


    recklessly.


    ¡°Do you have any idea who I am?¡± Mark raised his walking stick, pointing at him with fury in his voice.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. You simply can¡¯t leave. I don¡¯t believe that once you¡¯re out, you¡¯ll leave us


    alone!¡± Johnny fiercely grabbed the walking stick, yanking it back forcefully. Mark lost his bnce and


    nearly fell.


    Josie supported him, whispering, ¡°There are only two of us. We can¡¯t fight them. Let¡¯s try to buy some


    time.¡±


    However, apart from Johnny, the rest of theckeys weren¡¯t very confident. They were all street thugs


    who hadn¡¯t done anything significant before, let alone deal with these two.


    ¡°Johnny, maybe it¡¯s best to back off. He¡¯s Mark Olsen!¡± And standing beside him, astonishingly, was the


    real Liana who had shocked Wavery.


    If things went wrong, they wouldn¡¯t be able to escape the consequences.


    ¡°Enough with the talk. Leave if you¡¯re scared. But I have to stay!¡± Johnny rebuked angrily, then he


    pointed his knife at Josie.


    He forcefully pushed Mark to the ground. Josie heard the sound of bones breaking.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Mark struggled to get up.


    ¡°Rachel is in trouble, so you¡¯re not allowed to live well either.¡±


    Johnny steadily advanced, while Josie retreated step by step. However, due to his injuries, his steps


    were small.


    She shook her head, her face pale. ¡°Spare us. I promise we won¡¯t pursue this once we¡¯re out.¡±


    ¡°Why should I trust you? Even if what you¡¯re saying is true, I don¡¯t want it!¡±

 Chapter 1003

    Chapter 1003


    The unwavering loyalty of Johnny was even more terrifying.


    Josie remembered Johnny¡¯s adoration for Rachel, and a chill ran down her spine. If she were to fall, he


    could potentially cause a death.


    ¡°I¡¯ll repeat what I said, Johnny. It¡¯s not worth staining your hands with blood for the sake of love,¡± Josie


    said, with nowhere to retreat and facing his knife directly.


    This time, Johnny¡¯s eyes showed no hesitation; instead, they were filled with ruthless determination.


    ¡°Perhaps it wasn¡¯t worth it before. But now that you¡¯ve reduced Rachel to a target of scorn, why should


    I let you live?¡±


    The tip of the de pressed against Josie¡¯s throat. She closed her eyes. She was no longer as fearless


    and indifferent to death as she had been before. Now she had many concerns.


    At that moment, Mark struggled to get up, but the intense pain made it extremely difficult for him.


    Josie gestured with her hands at his sides, signaling him not to force it, reminding him that it was


    dangerous.


    She had no intention of returning to the Olsen family, nor did she want to be inexplicably implicated in a


    murder.


    However, Mark seemed oblivious to this. He continued to persist in trying to stand up.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Listen to me, young man. I can give you whatever you desire¡ªmoney, status, or even women. I can


    even let Rachel go, let her be with you. Where do you want to go? If you can¡¯t live in this country, then


    go abroad!¡±


    Mark spoke rapidly, fearing that Johnny might act impulsively.


    Johnny still held the knife, but he slowly turned his head. ¡°You¡¯re willing to let her go?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lying!¡± Johnny¡¯s knife moved a few inches closer.


    Mark extended his hand and eximed, ¡°I¡¯m not. I will let her go. You like her, don¡¯t you? I¡¯ll let her go


    with you!¡±


    Such words were quite tempting.


    From Josie¡¯s perspective, he was a man over fifty years of age who had let go of all his pride, almost


    begging to save her life.


    The sincerity of that moment left her in a daze.


    Is this¡­ familial love? Is this the paternal love from my biological father? Or is it simply that he doesn¡¯t


    want me to die because he doesn¡¯t want to bear the guilt?


    Johnny was clearly hesitant, but he quickly snapped out of his temptation. He shook his head. ¡°No,


    you¡¯re defiling her. She wouldn¡¯t want to go with me, so¡­¡±


    He looked at Josie, his eyes gleaming menacingly. ¡°You still have to die.¡±


    Josie¡¯s pupils dted.


    ¡°Drop dead!¡± Johnny¡¯s voice was soft as he swiftly thrust the knife forward. Josie closed her eyes.


    ¡°No!¡± Mark screamed, and then he abruptly rose and lunged forward, embracing Josie and shielding


    her from the iing de.


    The amplified sound of a knife piercing flesh echoed, yet the anticipated pain surprisingly never arrived.


    Josie opened her eyes, only to be startled by the sight of Mark standing protectively in front of her. His


    face gradually paled, and blood dripped from his back.


    ¡°Mark!¡± she cried out, unable to ept the scene before her.


    Johnny had stabbed the wrong person, his couragepletely drained away. He stood there, watching


    as Mark slowly copsed.


    ¡°Mark¡­ Mark¡­¡± Josie crouched down and lifted Mark¡¯s body. ¡°Don¡¯t die. Hang in there. Please don¡¯t


    die¡­¡±


    Her tears fell uncontrobly onto Mark¡¯s gaunt and bony face.


    He raised his hand, intending to catch her tears, but he no longer had the strength.


    ¡°Leanne¡­ I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    Josie was on the verge of breaking down. She pressed his wound to stop the blood from flowing out.


    She couldn¡¯t utter a single word, only her tears were pouring out.


    ¡°I¡­ I owe you so much. I fear I may never be able to repay you. I¡¯m giving my life to make amends. All


    I ask is that you¡­ you don¡¯t me your mother¡­¡±

 Chapter 1004

    Chapter 1004


    Mark endured the pain, his thoughts consumed by udia in such a critical moment.


    Josie felt both frustrated and heartbroken. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss all of thister. Just hold on and stay alive!¡±


    However, she didn¡¯t know how much longer he could endure. The henchmen had long since fled,


    leaving Johnny standing in disbelief, unable toprehend that he had actually taken action.


    Through her tears, she pleaded, ¡°Call an ambnce! Hurry! As long as he doesn¡¯t die, there¡¯s still hope


    for you! I beg you! He¡¯s not me. If he dies, your entire family will be implicated!¡±


    Johnny, as if awakened from a deep sleep, frantically searched for his phone but couldn¡¯t find it.


    Clumsily rushing around, he hurried back to his previous spot where he had been ying cards to


    resume his search.


    Josie lowered her head to observe Mark¡¯s increasingly paleplexion. He no longer possessed the


    radiance he once had.


    Mark tightly held Josie¡¯s hand, his gaze fixed on her. ¡°Do you know¡­ why there is an abandoned


    construction site behind Olsen Residence?¡±


    Josie was speechless. She could only shake her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I wanted to build a castle here for you, but before it could bepleted, you were


    gone¡­¡±


    Since then, whenever Mark saw this ce, he felt heartbroken. He had halted the construction, leaving


    it abandoned to this day.


    Josie was momentarily taken aback. She looked around. The structures here indeed resembled the


    construction of a castle.


    ¡°I know that no matter what I say now, you won¡¯t believe me¡­ I¡­ I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡± Mark¡¯s lips trembled


    as he spoke. ¡°Once, I believed that no matter when, as long as you could return to my side, regardless


    of how you may have changed, I would still recognize you. But now it seems¡­ I don¡¯t love you


    enough¡­¡±


    He regretted not recognizing his own daughter immediately.


    Tears uncontrobly streamed down Josie¡¯s face as various memories from the past resurfaced in her


    mind. She cried out, ¡°Have you found it yet?¡±


    Meanwhile, Johnny had already swiftly grabbed his phone. ¡°Is this the dispatch center? I¡¯m at¡­¡±


    Not hearing the next sentence, the dispatcher asked, ¡°Sir, what¡¯s wrong? Are you all right? Can you


    respond to me? Sir? Sir?¡±


    The live broadcast on the television continued. By this time, all the guests had dispersed, yet Rachel


    remained sprawled on the stage, her presence as bleak as a wilted flower.


    Quickly, a bodyguard stepped forward to restrain her, dragging her away.


    It was at this moment that she suddenly nced at the location of the camera, locking eyes with


    Johnny across the distance.


    He tightly gripped his phone, looking towards Josie.


    Since it¡¯s already been done, why not go all the way¡­ Rachel has no chance to turn things around¡­


    The dispatcher continued calling out for him. Johnny said, ¡°It¡¯s all right now.¡± After saying this, he hung


    up.


    Mark held on to hisst breath, looking at Josie tenderly.


    ¡°I have no regrets about dying here. Don¡¯t feel guilty.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes.


    Johnny returned, and the first thing she asked was, ¡°Did you make the call?¡±


    His face pale, he gave a slight nod, then picked up the blood-stained knife from the ground. Using his


    clothing, he wiped the de clean. Josie watched his actions with an inexplicable sense of dread.


    ¡°What are you doing¡­¡±


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    ¡°I just feel that, given the deep bond between you two as father and daughter, you might as well die


    together.¡±


    Josie¡¯s body shuddered, and at the same time, Mark¡¯s pupils dted.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gone mad¡­¡±


    Murderous intent filled Johnny¡¯s eyes. He raised his knife high, then plunged it down fiercely. Josie


    closed her eyes once again, only to hear a loud bang.

 Chapter 1005

    Chapter 1005


    The sound of a gunshot rang out.


    Josie immediately opened her eyes and was startled to see a bullet striking Johnny¡¯s knife, causing it to


    fall to the ground. Johnny looked incredulously at the person in the distance.


    Dexter, dressed in a ck shirt with unrolled sleeves, approached with smooth and confident strides.


    He firmly held a gun in his hand, smoke still wafting from the barrel.


    He hurriedly approached, finding Josie sitting on the ground in a pitiful state. Tears were still streaming


    down her cheeks, and she was so aggrieved that she couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    She didn¡¯t care why Dexter hade. She just felt terrified.


    Johnny had lost his weapon. He retreated step by step, but he didn¡¯t beg for mercy. Instead, he knelt


    straight down on the ground, understanding that his life was about to be ruined.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen!¡± Larry arrivedter, so shocked by the scene before him that he was rendered speechless.


    Upon seeing Dexter, Mark finally breathed a sigh of relief and slowly closed his eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t fall asleep!¡± Josie eximed.


    ¡°Get him to the hospital. Quickly!¡± Dexter spoke without hesitation.


    The bodyguards quickly took hold of the person from Josie¡¯s hands. A people carried him and ran


    outside, not stopping until they reached the car.


    Josie was about to rise and follow, but Dexter raised his hand, pressing her back down and causing her


    to sit back in her original spot.


    She stared at him nkly, momentarily unsure of how she should feel.


    Dexter put the gun away and squatted down to meet her gaze. He grasped her frail wrist, which was


    worn and scarred beyond recognition.


    Judging from the situation here, he could tell how much suffering she had endured.


    His Adam¡¯s apple bobbed, and after a moment, he finally said, ¡°You¡¯ve been through so much.¡±


    ¡°All these years.¡±


    Josie wore a nk expression after enduring a tremendous shock.


    Morgan had rushed over, crossing a mountain, only to see Mark being carried away. His face changed


    dramatically as he quickly stepped into the abandoned construction site. To his surprise, he saw the


    bodyguard detaining a bald man, while in the corner, Josie was sitting there, with Dexter crouching


    down next to her.


    All of Morgan¡¯s worries and anxieties hadpletely vanished, reced instead by jealousy.


    He had arrivedte.


    But how could this be? When I left, Dexter was still at the scene. How could he have found this ce


    so quickly?


    Could it be that he had known all along?


    Everything was prepared when they came to the rescue. Larry fetched a medical kit from the car and


    brought it over. Dexter carefully applied the medicine to her wrist with care and consideration.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    The two remained silent.


    He carefully and meticulously treated her wrist, wrapping it in gauze. Then, he half-knelt on the ground


    to attend to the wound on her ankle. It was only then that Josie finally spoke. ¡°Will Mark die?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t stop what he was doing.


    He had just examined Mark¡¯s wound on his back. The wound wasn¡¯t very deep. It shouldn¡¯t be fatal.


    ¡°No. I will summon the best doctor in the entire city to save him.¡±


    ¡°What am I supposed to do if he dies?¡± Josie asked as though she hadn¡¯t heard him the first time.


    Her eyes were clear as she looked at him nkly. ¡°Am I to bear the burden of another life lost?¡±


    Seeing Josie in such a state caused Dexter¡¯s heart to ache. He said firmly, ¡°I said he won¡¯t die. I¡¯m


    here, Leanne.¡±


    The two exchanged nces.


    Josie was momentarily stunned, and then a wave of dizziness washed over her. The inhuman torment


    she had endured these past days finally took its toll, causing her to copsepletely.


    ¡°Leanne!¡±

 Chapter 1006

    Chapter 1006


    The bizarre reality of this event had lingered in Wavery for an entire week. Rachel¡¯s cruelty had


    be the talk of the town, a popr topic of conversation among the citizens during their leisure


    time.


    Since the conclusion of the wedding, the Olsen family had effectively shut themselves off from all news.


    There were spections that they had misidentified their daughter and chose to withhold the


    information out of embarrassment.


    What was even more astonishing was that no legal authorities had gotten involved despite everything


    that had transpired. The only response was a statement released by the Russell Group after the


    incident. It stated that Dexter and Rachel were not legally married, thus rendering the wedding


    ceremony invalid.


    Apart from this, there was no other news.


    And so, everyone understood that they were nning to handle the matter privately.


    Numerous media outlets were staking out for a glimpse of Josie, yet no matter how hard they tried,


    they couldn¡¯t find her. It was as if she had vanished into thin air.


    Outside the intensive care unit of the hospital, the director stood before udia, respectfully saying,


    ¡°Mr. Olsen¡¯s condition has stabilized. He can now be moved to a regr ward for observation.¡±


    udia nodded gratefully.


    Mark had not yet awakened. The doctor said his injury was not life-threatening, but for some reason, he


    seemed unwilling to wake up.


    udia didn¡¯t ask further, understanding the reason.


    Before long, Summer and the others hurried to the hospital.


    ¡°Mother, I heard that Dad is alright now,¡± Zach approached.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    As udia drew closer, she could smell the scent of alcohol on him and looked up. ¡°Where have you


    been these past few days?¡±


    With an awkward smile, Zach said, ¡°When something happens at home, shouldn¡¯t I help handle it?¡±


    udia rebuked angrily, ¡°Having a son like you is truly the misfortune of the Olsen family!¡±


    Zach¡¯s expression immediately changed. ¡°Mom, how could you say that? Do you have any idea how


    shocked I was when I found out that Josie, that despicable woman, is actually Liana? The revtion


    was too overwhelming. I couldn¡¯t ept it. Of course, I had to vent my feelings.¡±


    The mention of Josie made udia¡¯s face contort even more. She was about to hit him when Laura


    quickly stepped forward to intervene. ¡°Mother, Zach didn¡¯t mean it. This matter¡­ truly caught us by


    surprise.¡±


    Meanwhile, Summer leaned against the wall, observing Mark¡¯s condition without showing any concern.


    She seemed like an outsider and remained silent.


    udia did not respond. She returned to her original spot and began to wipe Mark with a towel.


    ¡°Mother,¡± Summer began softly, ¡°I heard that Josie is living downstairs. Haven¡¯t you visited her these


    past few days? After all, Father was injured because he was trying to save her.¡±


    udia stopped what she was doing.


    Zach added, ¡°Yes, Mother. If Father is confused, that¡¯s one thing, but you¡¯re not seriously considering


    taking her back, are you? Don¡¯t me me for not warning you. She has suffered greatly at the hands of


    the Olsen family these past two years. She wouldn¡¯t genuinely want toe back. Looking at the way


    she caused a scene at the wedding, I believe it was all premeditated and organized. She is too


    cunning, too terrifying. She¡¯s nothing more than an ungrateful wretch! You have to be cautious.¡±


    Laura tugged at Zach¡¯s sleeve, only to receive a re from him. ¡°Did I say something wrong? Weren¡¯t


    you all stunned by the scene at that time? Mother, you were surprised too, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    He sought affirmation.


    ¡°Enough!¡± udia suddenly erupted in anger, tossing the towel into the water. ¡°All of you, get out! I


    don¡¯t want to see any of you.¡±


    Zach was displeased, but Laura quickly stepped in to mediate. She grabbed his arm and urged, ¡°Let¡¯s


    go outside for now. Give Mother some peace!¡±


    Soon, everyone left. The hospital room was filled only with the rhythmic ticking of the medical


    equipment. udia was utterly exhausted. She held Mark¡¯s hand and rested it against her cheek.


    She said slowly, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to face that child, and neither do you, right?¡±

 Chapter 1007

    Chapter 1007


    The extent of Josie¡¯s injury was difficult to determine. It wasn¡¯t minor, yet it wasn¡¯t excessively severe


    either. She had been bound for two days, her skin tender. The ropes had rubbed against her bones,


    creating a sight that was shocking to witness.


    The doctor had advised her against spending long hours in front of theputer. In other words, half of


    her future was practically buried.


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    Upon hearing this, Josie¡¯s emotions became soplex that she found herself at a loss for words.


    She had stayed in the hospital for a few days, during which only a few people visited, including


    Matthew, Mallory, and asionally, Calvin.


    Matthew mentioned that the stic surgeon had already returned to Japrium. If it weren¡¯t for Matthew¡¯s


    sake, the surgeon would never havee forward to testify. Fortunately, his hospital was in Japrium,


    so his career wasn¡¯t greatly affected.


    Most of the time, Josie would sit on the balcony, soaking up the sun. When winter arrived, she would


    often feel lethargic and asionally smoke a cigarette to perk herself up.


    Whenever Mallory saw her in that state, she would sigh. ¡°Morgan has been waiting outside for three or


    four days now. Will you see him or not?¡±


    Josiezily opened her eyes, showing no particr interest. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    Mallory sat across from her, observing her closely.


    ¡°To be honest, Morgan did everything he could for you. I heard that on the day of the wedding, he


    tirelessly searched for you. However, due to his unfamiliarity with the area, he had tob through an


    entire back mountain before he found you. One can¡¯t really me him. Even the attendants of the


    Olsen family didn¡¯t know about that ce,¡± Mallory said with curiosity, her hands cupping her face.


    ¡°However, surprisingly, Dexter knew.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression visibly stiffened when she heard Dexter¡¯s name.


    Mallory continued relentlessly. ¡°Honestly, how did he manage to arrive earlier than Morgan?¡±


    Josie and Dexter shared a bond that had developed since childhood. As a result, Dexter knew many


    things that others were unaware of.


    ¡°He knew a shortcut,¡± Josie replied. However, that was many years ago, when the two of them would


    often run between the Olsen Residence and Russell Mansion. The fact that he still remembered


    surprised Josie a bit.


    When he arrived, gun in hand, a spark inevitably lit up in her eyes once again.


    He never gave up on her.


    From the moment she was found and brought to the hospital, Dexter had been extremely cautious with


    his actions, fearing that he might hurt her. He didn¡¯t ask anything, nor did he make any demands.


    Once the doctor had treated her wounds, he half-crouched in front of her to speak. ¡°Heather is with me.


    If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at any time.¡±


    The hospital was always bustling with activity. Outside, numerous people associated with it stood, their


    voices creating a cacophony that was headache-inducing. Yet, when he half-crouched in front of her, it


    was as if he had shielded her from the entire world, calm and unhurried.


    Josie looked into his eyes, asking him the same question she had asked Heather. ¡°When did you find


    out?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s silent approval undoubtedly facilitated the sess of her n. In other words, he had known


    about it all along.


    However, Josie couldn¡¯tprehend. Before the wedding, there was a time when he wanted to send


    her abroad. He probably didn¡¯t know then.


    ¡°I simply suspected, but didn¡¯t confirm,¡± Dexter replied.


    ¡°When was it?¡± She insisted on getting an answer.


    Dexter had no choice but to answer, striving for uracy. ¡°When you were kidnapped, when there was


    a bomb in the car, you asked me to choose white.¡±


    Josie was somewhat taken aback. ¡°Just from that sentence, you were able to guess?¡±


    ¡°Not just that.¡± There were many more intricate details that he noticed.


    Josie pushed him away, saying she wanted to sleep, then turned her body away. From that moment on,


    Dexter was never able to see her again.


    Seeing that Josie still didn¡¯t seem in the mood to talk, Mallory changed the subject. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to


    meet Morgan, what about Justin? This is the first time he hase to see you in these past few days.


    He must have something important.¡±

 Chapter 1008

    Chapter 1008


    Without a doubt, Josie was well aware of the situation. She furrowed her brow and said, ¡°Allow him to


    enter.¡±


    Mallory stood up leisurely, passing by Morgan, who had been waiting at the door all this time, and said


    to Justin, ¡°Let¡¯s go inside.¡±


    Quietly, Justin followed. However, he was stopped by Mallory¡¯s remark. ¡°Remember your manners.¡±


    Justin hesitated for a moment but continued forward.


    Since she was essentially his superior, a gentle reminder from her wouldn¡¯t hurt.


    The man sitting in the corner emitted an aura of destion, an unusual disy of exhaustion. Ryan,


    who had been standing nearby, couldn¡¯t help but speak up. ¡°Ms. Whiteford, our boss has been waiting


    here for three to four days. This is truly unfair.¡±


    Mallory raised an eyebrow and replied, ¡°Indeed, it is unreasonable. Let him go then.¡±


    This was the first time Mallory hade face to face with Morgan. His eyes were expressive,


    concealing a sharp edge. He seemed vaguely familiar, but it was evident that he was no ordinary


    individual.


    Ryan seemed to want to say something more but was silenced by the intensity in Morgan¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Mallory¡­¡± He pronounced her name, syble by syble. ¡°Have we met before?¡±


    She paused, intently studying Morgan¡¯s face.


    Their eyes locked.


    Mallory remembered everything.


    Long before she deliberately provoked Calvin, she had encountered him. It was a hadn¡¯t yet attended


    university and hadn¡¯t met Morgan.


    At that time, she had returned to her home country from abroad. By the time she arrived at the airport,


    it was already three in the morning.


    Even in the early hours, the airport remained bustling with people.


    She maneuvered through the crowd, her phone continuously buzzing with iing messages. They


    were from her questionable friends: ¡°Don¡¯t rush off after disembarking from the ne. I¡¯ve arranged for


    someone to pick you up. Call this number.¡±


    Mallory typed with one hand, slowly responding: ¡°Finally, I have the chance to be human for once.¡±


    Back then, she was engaged in a dispute with Calvin, and it took her a few months of wandering


    outside before she finally returned.


    In the middle of the night, she didn¡¯t want to struggle anymore. She epted the act of kindness,


    promptly leaving the parking lot. Simultaneously, she dialed the number, which was a local one.


    The airport was filled with noise, asionally interrupted by the roar of a car engine. Amidst the


    commotion, Mallory strained toprehend the words spoken to her. ¡°Just around the corner ahead of


    you, turn around, and you¡¯ll see me.¡±


    He possessed a rather pleasant voice.


    In the presence of strangers, it was always crucial to make a good impression, especially when it came


    to a friend¡¯s acquaintance, with whom she was bound to interact frequently in the future. Mallory lifted


    her head and straightened her posture, attempting to appear less fatigued.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The lighting in the parking lot was dim and unclear, casting vague shadows on people. The individual


    was d in a ck windbreaker, with a hat pulled down over his head, engrossed in his mobile phone.


    Half of his face was visible, revealing sharply defined features.


    Mallory yfully raised her eyebrows. ¡°He doesn¡¯t look bad.¡±


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Morgan raised an eyebrow, ncing at Mallory, who was slightly shorter than him.


    His face disyed a puzzled expression.


    Mallory was intrigued, observing her staring at him. Morgan was the first to break the silence. ¡°Do we


    know each other?¡±


    Morgan suddenly had a realization.


    Without much suspicion, he turned off his cell phone.


    The streets were deserted in the early hours, with cars speeding like arrows released from their bows.


    Mallory sat in the back seat, her gaze falling upon the man¡¯s distinct face reflected in the rearview


    mirror. His eyes and brows held a casual indifference, as if nothing in the world mattered to him.


    ¡°They had a gathering at home, and everyone had too much to drink, so I was called toe pick you


    up,¡± Morgan informed her.


    Mallory nodded in understanding, then asked, ¡°Do you have a girlfriend?¡±


    Morgan grinned. ¡°You have an inkling.¡±


    She neither confirmed nor denied. ¡°What if I said there was?¡±


    Morgan simply smiled.

 Chapter 1009

    Chapter 1009


    ¡°You¡¯re only neen this year, right? And you¡¯ve already taken your driving test?¡± Mallory smiled.


    Only then did Morgan look up, ncing at her through the rearview mirror. ¡°I passed the exam after I


    turned eighteen.¡±


    He paused for a moment, then half-jokingly asked, ¡°What, don¡¯t you trust my driving skills?¡±


    Mallory gave a smallugh, leaning back in her seat and shaking her head. ¡°No, you¡¯re driving just


    fine.¡±


    Suddenly, it began to rain outside. The car windows were covered with droplets. Mallory shifted her


    gaze away from Morgan, staring nkly at the neon lights outside that scattered light.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to rain for the entire uing week, so if you¡¯re nning to go out and have fun, you might


    have to wait for a while,¡± said Morgan.


    Mallory rested her head against the car window. Seizing the opportunity to talk to him and gaze at him,


    she asked, ¡°Do you know who I am?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Neen-year-old Morgan looked at her again. ¡°Calvin¡¯s girlfriend.¡±


    Hence, they had known each other before.


    Mallory lost interest and closed her eyes to rest.


    Their paths had crossed just that once, and unexpectedly, it had been remembered by her.


    At that moment, Mallory¡¯s expression underwent a subtle change. Having been caught in a


    compromising situation, her attitude toward Morgan also became incredibly nuanced.


    Morgan didn¡¯t say a word, calmly withdrawing his gaze.


    From a short distance away, Calvin was walking toward them.


    Inside the hospital room, Justin had already made his way to Josie¡¯s side.


    Thetter¡¯s gaze was gentle. ¡°Please sit. What would you like to drink?¡±


    Justin¡¯s face was tense. He didn¡¯t respond. Consequently, Josie rose on her own, limping over to the


    water dispenser. She poured herself a cup of water, her hand trembling.


    Justin abruptly took over, directly questioning, ¡°You¡¯ve always known your identity, haven¡¯t you? You¡¯ve


    been using me all along.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, looking directly into his eyes. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Some sins, one must atone for themselves.


    The veins on Justin¡¯s hand bulged prominently.


    ¡°Whatever you want to ask, I¡¯ll tell you,¡± said Josie.


    After a prolonged standoff, Justin tightly gripped the disposable paper cup and tossed it into the trash


    bin. ¡°I only have one question. Where is Father?¡±


    He asked that question in the end. With so much having transpired, Pop hadn¡¯t shown up. He must


    have guessed it all. Josie clenched her fingers tightly, stating the truth. ¡°He¡¯s gone missing.¡±


    Justin suddenly red at her. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°A few months ago, he disappeared. I¡¯ve been searching ever since, but I haven¡¯t found him yet. The


    trail has gone cold.¡± Josie spoke calmly, and with that, she sighed in relief. She gave a bitter smile and


    said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I resorted to this measure just to prevent you from worrying and taking risks.¡±


    Justin didn¡¯t take in a single word. He lifted his hand directly, pushing her away. ¡°Have you gone mad?¡±


    Josie copsed onto the bed, thinking she deserved to bear his wrath.


    ¡°Tell me, were you involved in this matter?¡± questioned Justin.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Josie¡¯s guilt kept spreading.


    ¡°Josie!¡± Justinpletely lost control, pointing at her as he spoke. ¡°He wasn¡¯t your biological father, but


    he was mine! You¡¯ve managed to find your own biological parents and enjoy their blessings, but what


    about me? Where is my father? Give him back to me!¡±


    Josie was consumed by heartache. She was open and honest with everyone, yet she felt a deep sense


    of guilt toward Justin.


    ¡°Listen to me. I will definitely bring Pop back, even if it costs me my life!¡± Josie sat up, looking at him


    earnestly.


    Justin shook his head. ¡°No, you¡¯re about to return to the Olsen family. You¡¯re going to be their daughter.


    You won¡¯t care about him¡­¡±


    Josie immediately denied, ¡°I still will care! Pop has always been the closest person to me. Justin, I¡¯m


    sorry. I promise you, I will definitely find him. Whether he¡¯s at the ends of the earth or in the depths of


    the underworld, I will bring him back!¡±


    She attempted to grasp Justin¡¯s hand, but he swiftly brushed her off. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you. I truly despise


    you.¡±


    Justin turned and walked away.

 Chapter 1010

    Chapter 1010


    Josie¡¯s wrist throbbed with pain, but she endured it, shouting loudly, ¡°Justin! Don¡¯t let your pride cloud


    your judgment!¡±


    As he opened the door, his movements abruptly halted. He asked, ¡°In the end, will you return to the


    Olsen family?¡±


    Before Josie could respond, Justin had already stormed out, mming the door behind him.


    Perhaps themotion was too loud. Morgan had a bad premonition after witnessing that scene. He


    barged in directly. ¡°Jo!¡±


    Josie was half-lying on the bed, her brows furrowed in pain.


    Morgan¡¯s brow twitched, a pang of concern spreading through him. He stepped forward to check on her


    condition. ¡°Are you alright? Did Justin upset you?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t let him touch her. He stood in the shadows, much like a child who had done something


    wrong. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It was my failure to execute your n properly that caused you harm.¡±


    Josie raised her hand to cover her eyes, plunging herself into darkness. ¡°After I left the airport, why


    didn¡¯t your peoplee to pick me up?¡±


    ¡°There was an ident. They¡¯ve already been dealt with.¡±


    ¡°Justin and the others were deliberately let into the wedding venue by Dexter. Where were you at that


    time?¡±


    Morgan was at a loss for words, but he quickly added, ¡°I know that whatever I say now is pointless. All


    the me lies with me. However, fortunately, the oue is positive, isn¡¯t it? Mark is already out of


    danger and will wake up soon, and then¡­¡±


    Before he could finish his words, he was interrupted by Josie.


    ¡°I should never have relied on anyone in the first ce. This isn¡¯t your fault. It¡¯s mine.¡± She sat up,


    meeting his gaze. ¡°Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    She was too calm, a tranquility that deeply unsettled Morgan. He crouched down halfway. ¡°If you¡¯re


    angry, let it out. Hit me, scold me, do whatever you want, just don¡¯t be upset.¡±


    Josie remained still.


    Morgan approached her with longing in his eyes. ¡°What are your ns after this? Will you return to the


    Olsen family?¡±


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    He knew clearly that udia and Mark were just momentarily taken aback. Under no circumstances


    would they abandon their own biological daughter.


    Yet, as Josie stepped out of the hospital room, basking anew in the sunlight, she dered, ¡°I am not


    affiliated with anyone. I am simply on my own.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s silhouette, standing in the shadows, swayed slightly.


    Outside, Calvin leaned against the wall, intending to light a cigarette, but up, his body radiating


    frustration.


    ¡°I must see her,¡± he repeated to Mallory.


    ¡°I¡¯m not stopping you. Go ahead, tell her all your grievances. See if she¡¯ll go with you.¡± Mallory wore a


    radiant smile.


    Calvin, growing impatient, climbed up, barely holding back. ¡°Something has happened to Russell


    Group. If she doesn¡¯t meet Dexter, once her shares are acquired, she won¡¯t have it easy.¡±


    Ever since the shocking scandal involving Heather broke out, Mark was hospitalized, leaving the Olsen


    family leaderless. Their partnerships were dissolved, and Russell Group had to face not only the


    onught of negative press but also the risk of a broken capital flow.


    Even within thepany, there were those who watched the situation unfold covetously.


    Dexter¡¯s predicament was even more challenging than the most severe situation before. Those past


    few days, he had been staying day and night at Russell Group without any spare time.


    If, back then, Dexter hadn¡¯t fueled the mes toplete Josie¡¯s n, Russell Group wouldn¡¯t have


    ended up in that situation.


    He was fully aware of the risks he would face, yet he still chose to proceed.


    He gambled his entire fortune.


    Upon hearing that, Mallory showed no reaction. ¡°I¡¯ve told you, you should speak to her yourself.¡±


    Calvin narrowed his eyes. ¡°She won¡¯t listen to me. She might only listen to you.¡±


    Mallory wanted to say that Josie wouldn¡¯t listen to herself either, but she still smiled. ¡°Beg me, Mr.


    Barrett. When you ask for help, you should have the right attitude.¡±

 Chapter 1011

    Chapter 1011


    Despite all themotion, Mallory chose not to inform Josie about the situation, believing that it was


    up to Josie to decide whether she wanted to know or not.


    When she regained consciousness, she didn¡¯t even look at Mark.


    On the day Mark woke up, Josie arranged for his discharge from the hospital. She instructed Mallory to


    keep a close eye on Justin¡¯s movements and then left alone, refusing anyone¡¯spany.


    In the early morning streets, the air carried the scent of a recently passed water truck. Josie touched


    her bare arm, the breeze rustling her long hair, which she impatiently pushed back.


    Her wrist still hurt when pressure was applied.


    Unpleasant memories of that day flooded back to her. When Mark looked at her with such intense


    hostility, he truly saw her as the most detestable person in the world.


    She gently touched her dry eyes and found a nearby pharmacy. She bought a face mask that covered


    her entire face. Only then did her heart, which had been in her throat, finally calm down. She felt a


    sense of security and belonging.


    Someone brushed past her, asking, ¡°Hello, do you have any birth control pills?¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Which one do you want?¡± asked the cashier.


    ¡°Yasmin.¡±


    The man¡¯s voice sounded youthful. Subconsciously, Josie turned around, catching a glimpse of a tall,


    slender figure. He wore a ck T-shirt and a ck baseball cap, exuding an air of superiority and


    indifference.


    Josie found a rehabilitation center and dedicated all her time to recovery. Meanwhile, she submitted her


    resume to several constructionpanies in Rivodia.


    asionally, she traveled between the two cities.


    She deliberately kept this matter from Morgan, and no one else was allowed to know.


    When she went for the interview, the venue was crowded. She was probably the only woman in the


    field of architectural design. As soon as Josie entered, all kinds of gazes turned toward her¡ªprobing,


    curious, surprised, and incredulous.


    The middle-aged man beside her, wearing a tie, said, ¡°Are you nervous? I¡¯m a bit nervous.¡±


    She remainedpletely still, seemingly unable to understand him. ¡°What is there to be nervous


    about?¡±


    The other person fell silent for a moment, finding the woman¡¯s demeanor truly unique.


    After the interview, Josie removed her mask in the deserted, quiet hallway. Leaning against the wall,


    she pulled out a pack of cigarettes from her pocket. She took one out and ced it in her mouth,


    attempting to light it three times without sess. Frustrated, she forcefully flicked her lighter a few


    times. She desperately needed the taste of nicotine to help stabilize her emotions.


    Finally, the smoke began to waft upward, providing sce to her soul.


    She had only wanted toe to the stairwell for a smoke to satisfy her cravings, but she didn¡¯t expect


    to overhear a conversation.


    She didn¡¯t expect that the conversation would be about her.


    ¡°What do you think of Josie¡¯s work?¡±


    The sound echoed from the corner downstairs. Josie couldn¡¯t see the speakers, and they couldn¡¯t see


    her.


    A somewhat impatient male voice responded, ¡°Her ideas are good, but her hand seems unsteady while


    drawing.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t deny her professionalism.¡±


    ¡°Every applicant was among the top hundred in the industry. She was nothing special.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re being too harsh. Considering she¡¯s a woman, what she has achieved is already remarkable.¡±


    The man¡¯s voice suddenly broke intoughter. ¡°Did you really want to keep her here?¡±


    Intrigued, Josie quietly stepped out, trying to catch a glimpse of the other person.


    ¡°I thought this woman looked really cool,¡± the other person praised without reservation. ¡°Moreover, she


    seemed like someone with a lot of stories. I have no reason not to keep her around. Besides, I wanted


    to make a big ssh in the news.¡±


    Lost in her thoughts, Josie let the ash from the cigarette she held between her fingers fall. It slipped


    through the railing,nding on the man¡¯s arm.


    It was slightly hot.


    Josie didn¡¯t have time to dodge. A man immediately appeared in her line of sight. He wore a ck T-


    shirt and a ck baseball cap. He tilted his head slightly to meet her gaze.

 Chapter 1012

    Chapter 1012


    His eyes were pitch ck, his gaze light and faint.


    Josie¡¯s breath hitched, her mind going nk. She saw the man quickly avert his gaze as if he hadn¡¯t


    seen anything at all.


    Immediately after, he casually replied, ¡°Hmm, interesting. She seems like someone with a strong


    support system, who can act boldly and fears nothing.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t have any hope for thatpany.


    Every time she visited Rivodia, she would spend a night there. Her identity didn¡¯t attract as much


    attention as it did in Wavery, allowing her to act without any reservations.


    She carried Paul¡¯s photo, inquiring everywhere.


    She had a feeling that his disappearance was rted to Rivodia.


    That day, she was sitting in a small pasta restaurant, enjoying her meal, when she received a call from


    Scott. ¡°Ms. Warren, are you free? I¡¯d like to invite you for a meal.¡±


    Josie nced at the pasta in front of her, grinning. ¡°I¡¯m eating. If you have anything you want to tell me,


    tell me on the phone.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been quite poprtely. I thought you wouldn¡¯t answer my call,¡± he joked.


    Josie couldn¡¯t bring herself tough.


    ¡°Scar had disappeared for several months, only to reappear in Rivodia,¡± Scott stated, getting straight to


    the point.


    Josie halted abruptly. ¡°Where?¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°Rivodia,¡± Scott repeated. ¡°I¡¯m just informing you of the progress. I¡¯ll notify you if there are any further


    developments. By the way, where are you now?¡±


    Rivodia. Josie didn¡¯t respond directly. She pursed her lips. ¡°Sergeant Buncho, I¡¯m hanging up now.¡±


    As the sun was setting, the television in the restaurant was broadcasting financial news. She nced


    at it absentmindedly, only to suddenly catch sight of Dexter¡¯s figure.


    He appeared on television during a broadcasted meeting. His eyes resembled a serene spring, forever


    restrained and calm.


    That was the first time she had seen Dexter¡¯s figure again after so many days.


    However, the content of the broadcast was not good news for him. After Josie listened carefully, she


    roughly understood.


    At the time, Dexter held forty-nine percent of the shares, and so did Isaac.


    The two were equal in strength and status, their situation had already reached a critical stage.


    Dexter staked his future on her persistence.


    He won the gamble, yet lost everything.


    Josie wanted tough. Dexter had never engaged in a losing deal, yet at that moment, he was willing to


    lose for her sake.


    He seemed deeply affectionate towards her. Yet after recognizing her, he still contemted sending her


    abroad and marrying Heather.


    Josie could roughly guess the reason behind it.


    He was too clear-headed, so clear-headed that it was impossible to see through him.


    Her phone vibrated once more. It was an email from the constructionpany, offering her a position


    to start the following day.


    Josie replied word by word: I apologize, but I might have to postpone for two days.


    She booked a high-speed train back to Wavery.


    However, as soon as she stepped out, she was stopped by a group of burly bodyguards. ¡°Ms. Warren,


    we¡¯ve been waiting for you.¡±


    Josie stood firm. ¡°Who do you all belong to?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Harrison would like to invite you for tea.¡±


    He still managed to find her. Back when they divorced, Dexter had given Josie one percent of the


    Russell Group¡¯s equity. Atst, that equity finally came in handy.


    ¡°What if I didn¡¯t go?¡± asked Josie.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t me us for not being polite.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, spotting a group of familiar figures. ¡°Take a look behind you.¡±


    They frowned, simultaneously turning their heads to look back. To their surprise, they saw Moses¡¯


    bodyguards, dressed in in clothes, blending into the crowd.


    Over the past few days, two groups of people had been following Josie in Wavery and Rivodia, but they


    had never disturbed her.


    Issac¡¯s men paled in disbelief. In the end, they chose not to argue further. ¡°Retreat!¡±


    After Moses saw them leave, he breathed a sigh of relief. However, as he watched Josie approach step


    by step, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of fear creeping in subconsciously. ¡°Josie.¡±

 Chapter 1013

    Chapter 1013


    After carrying the bag for a while, Josie¡¯s wrist began to ache. She handed everything over to Moses.


    He immediately took it, looking at her tentatively, his gaze resembling that of a puppy.


    Josie continued to walk ahead while Moses and the others followed closely behind, maintaining a brisk


    pace.


    She said, ¡°Take me to meet Dexter.¡±


    Russell Group was on high alert, with everyone in the building feeling threatened. When Josie set foot


    in the ce once again, a sense of long-lost familiarity washed over her.


    She had initially thought that she wouldn¡¯t have the opportunity toe back.


    The lights in the penthouse office were bright. The secretary led Josie inside. As she looked up, she


    saw a mountain of files piled up on the desk, and various documents and items scattered around the


    rest of the space.


    No one had cleaned up the mess.


    The office waspletely empty, yet the secretary didn¡¯t dare to proceed further. She cautiously said,


    ¡°Mr. Russell should be in the lounge.¡±


    Taking a deep breath, Josie decided to go in.


    The atmosphere within the room was oppressive. The door to the lounge was half-closed, and inside, it


    was pitch ck, devoid of any light.


    Earlier, in the car, Moses had been like a child tattling to their parents, telling Josie many things about


    Dexter.


    He talked about how Dexter negotiated with major shareholders, how he kept the project going under


    immense pressure, and how he stood firm against the media without giving an inch.


    All of those required tremendous mental strength, yet Dexter single-handedly shouldered everything,


    not revealing a shred of it while she was recovering.


    ¡°Josie, to be honest, if nothing had gone wrong on the wedding day, Russell Group wouldn¡¯t have


    ended up in this vulnerable position again. That day, Mr. Russell still insisted that we do everything in


    our power to bring Justin back. He¡¯s been drinking quite a lottely due to social obligations, which led


    to gastrointestinal bleeding. Josie¡­¡± said Moses.


    Josie stood at the doorway, suddenly overwhelmed by a profound sense of helplessness.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The lounge was dimly lit, with only the light from outside filtering through the ss windows and falling


    in the corners. Dexter¡¯s silhouette, rising and falling, seemed particrly lonely and deste.


    He seemed to be searching for something, his bangs fluttering on his forehead, his breath somewhat


    hurried. He was so engrossed that he didn¡¯t even notice someone had arrived.


    He must not have found it. He tilted his head back slightly, letting out a sigh, seemingly out of options.


    Josie took a step and startled him. Immediately, he raised his hand to switch on the light. ¡°Who¡¯s


    there?¡±


    The sudden burst of light caused Josie to raise her hand instinctively to shield her eyes. When she


    moved it away, she was startled to see an unexpected look in Dexter¡¯s eyes. However, his expression


    remainedrgely unchanged, as always, impassive.


    Suddenly, Josie felt somewhat uneasy. The calm she had maintained in the past few days seemed to


    have somewhat dissipated.


    ¡°I ran into Moses at the station.¡± Her reason was revealed in a single sentence.


    Meanwhile, Dexter scrutinized her.


    She was somewhat frail, slender like a de of grass, but standing there, she exuded a unique


    resilience and determination. Having experienced the world of pleasure and vice, she had seen it all,


    yet her mind remained clear and lucid.


    Indeed, she was his cherished one.


    No matter how her appearance changed, her temperament never did.


    Every time he saw her, Dexter would regret not recognizing her sooner.


    Realizing his mistake btedly, he propped himself up, somewhat resembling a big boy who had done


    something wrong. ¡°Have you eaten? I didn¡¯t intentionally have Moses follow you. I was just worried that


    you might get into trouble if targeted by Mr. Harrison, so I¡­¡±


    In the end, he found himself at a loss for words and decided to drop the subject. ¡°Have you


    encountered any trouble?¡±


    Josie heard her own sigh in her heart.


    She could never harden her heart against him.


    ¡°No, Moses did a great job resolving the trouble for me.¡± Josie stepped forward, noticing arge box in


    front of him. ¡°What are you looking for?¡±

 Chapter 1014

    Chapter 1014


    The room was filled with various items, creating a cluttered atmosphere.


    Dexter clenched his fist and coughed lightly, moving the object aside. ¡°The photograph.¡±


    ¡°What photograph?¡±


    ¡°The group photo from our childhood. I can¡¯t find it anymore.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice was soft, revealing his embarrassment when facing the person whose identity had been


    revealed.


    Josie found it amusing. ¡°Didn¡¯t you order someone to throw it away?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t know back then.¡± He didn¡¯t know it was her.


    In fact, Josie herself didn¡¯t know, let alone realize that the person who had always been jealous was


    her younger self.


    Seeing her remain silent, Dexter asked if she had eaten, deliberately avoiding any mention of the


    shares.


    Josie stood before him, noticing his tightly clenched hand as if he was holding back something. ¡°Why


    didn¡¯t youe looking for me?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dexter was taken aback but quickly regained hisposure. ¡°Even without that one percent, I can still


    bring down Mr. Harrison.¡±


    ¡°I would¡¯ve believed you in the past. However, now that Old Mr. Russell has passed away, do you still


    have the confidence?¡± Josie asked bluntly.


    Dexter¡¯s confidence in the past was inevitably influenced by Henry¡¯s presence behind the scenes.


    Important figures would certainly harbor some apprehension.


    Since the old man had passed away, things would be even more difficult for Dexter.


    Dexter turned his face to the side. ¡°That equity was given to you by me. There¡¯s no reason for me to


    take it back.¡±


    ¡°Are you saying that even if Russell Group changes its leader, it¡¯ll continue to exist?¡± asked Josie.


    He prodded his cheek with the tip of his tongue, still stubborn. ¡°Yes.¡±


    An inexplicable fury welled up in Josie¡¯s heart. She said, ¡°I cannot ept this favor that the CEO of


    Russell Group has bestowed upon me. I will have mywyer handle the procedures soon and return


    the equity to you. You¡¯d better keep Russell Group intact!¡±


    ¡°What about you?¡± He asked quickly, catching Josie off guard.


    In the next moment, he had already pulled her into his embrace, holding her tightly. His voice was


    hoarse as he asked, ¡°What about you? Will youe back?¡±


    Josie froze entirely. She attempted to struggle free for a moment, but she couldn¡¯t break free. ¡°Dexter.¡±


    ¡°Regarding the incident at the wedding, I never intended to coerce you into giving me anything.


    Everything I did was of my own volition. You need not feel guilty.¡± The night was filled with darkness,


    and Josie heard the man¡¯s hoarse voice slowly whispering in her ear, causing a flutter in her heart.


    Such humility was exactly what she desired, yet when she truly obtained it, she found it embarrassing.


    ¡°These past few days, I¡¯ve missed you greatly.¡± He articted each word, clearly suppressing the


    longing emotions he had held back for so long.


    Josie¡¯s gaze fell on the cup on the tea table, noticing the several cracks on it. ¡°You¡¯ve lost your temper


    again.¡±


    Dexter neither admitted nor denied it, holding her tightly, unwilling to let go.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have thewyer handle the paperwork tomorrow,¡± Josie finally pushed him away with exceptional


    calmness.


    ¡°I said I didn¡¯t need it!¡± Dexter was like a provoked beast, his eyes bloodshot.


    Seeing her seemingly frightened, he lowered his voice. ¡°If the paperwork is done, what¡¯s next? Do you


    want to settle your debts and sever all ties with me? Is that it?¡±


    Josie looked at him, uttering a heartless phrase, ¡°What does it matter if we part ways?¡±


    In the silence, Dexter remained speechless, his eyes filled with crystal-clear tears. He had never


    realized that those words could carry such devastating power.


    After a long silence, he said, ¡°Whether you are Josie or Liana, I never thought of parting ways with


    you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too agitated right now. I don¡¯t want to talk to you,¡± Josie said, unusually calm. She picked up a


    pen from the table, pulled out a tissue, and wrote down a string of numbers on it. ¡°This is my current


    number. When you¡¯ve calmed down and thought things through, give me a call.¡±


    She thought to herself, if it had been her past self, she would have definitely given in to his persuasion.

 Chapter 1015

    Chapter 1015


    ¡°What about Rachel? Don¡¯t you want to see her?¡± he insisted.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to, at least not for now.¡±


    ¡°Mark is awake, and the two elders feel guilty towards you. They also wish to see you.¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to see them,¡± Josie coldly rejected him, then left his lounge and him behind.


    Upon reaching the ground floor, she looked back up at the top of the building.


    Once upon a time, she felt that he was standing up there all alone and she should keep himpany,


    but in the end, she found herself badly hurt from doing so.


    Josie returned home and tried to sleep. However, Dexter¡¯s words echoed repeatedly in her mind,


    preventing her from getting a good night¡¯s rest. When she was rudely awakened the next day, she felt


    somewhat irritable.


    It was a call from Charles, the newly appointed mayor of Wavery. He had invited her out for a meal.


    As Charles was an influential contact her grandfather had given her, there was no reason to refuse.


    Moreover, she still had to rely on the police regarding Paul¡¯s disappearance, so she agreed to the


    meeting.


    At that moment, Mallory had just arrived with breakfast when she overheard the conversation. ¡°I¡¯m


    bored. Take me with you.¡±


    Josie slightly furrowed her brows but still agreed, ¡°Sure.¡±


    When they met, it was already noon. It was Charles¡¯ lunchtime, so he didn¡¯t bring any staff with him.


    Upon entering the private room, Charles called for the waiter as he took a seat. ¡°I¡¯ve learned about the


    recent incident,¡± he said. ¡°I know it¡¯s been tough for you and it wasn¡¯t your fault. Rachel, who previously


    worked as an assistant within the government, is quite skilled at deception.¡±


    When he brought up the topic, Josie made noment in response to his assessment.


    After waiting for a while, the waiter finally came in. He was tall, dressed in a uniform, and wore a


    baseball cap on his head. He also wore a face mask, maintaining a low profile as he bowed his head to


    present the menu.


    Josie didn¡¯t pay much attention, propping her head up as she said to Charles, ¡°In the end, it was my


    failure in judging people that caused me to be tricked this way. I deserve it, so I don¡¯t me anyone.¡±


    Her words were somewhat tinged with a hint of self-mockery.


    Charles, who was a decade or two older than her, was admiring her at that moment.


    She was merely in her early twenties, yet she possessed an exceptionallyposed demeanor.


    Charles first handed the menu to Mallory, who was sitting next to him. ¡°What are you nning next?


    Are you going back to the Olsen family?¡±


    Upon inquiring about the Olsen family, Josie understood what Charles was looking for.


    Upon assuming his new official position, Charles needed support, inevitably finding himself entangled


    in the web of personal favors.


    Josie pursed her lips together. ¡°May I refrain from answering?¡±


    Charles was momentarily taken aback, but he continued, ¡°Of course, let¡¯s eat first.¡±


    Meanwhile, Mallory had already buried her head in the menu for quite some time before she finally


    looked up to call the waiter. ¡°Give us one seafood ceviche, one grilled pork ribs, one beef stroganoff,


    two lobster thermidors, and a bowl of minestrone. Hmm¡­ Mr. Zimmerman, I hope I didn¡¯t exceed your


    limit, did I?¡±


    Charles chuckled. ¡°If I pay out of my own pocket, it doesn¡¯t count as a public expense.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Can you really finish all the food you¡¯ve ordered?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m famished. Now that I¡¯ve ordered, it¡¯s your turn.¡±


    Mallory lifted her head, only to be taken aback upon realizing that the waiter was merely listening. ¡°Why


    didn¡¯t you write down the orders?¡±


    The waiter stood off to the side, in a spot where the lighting was somewhat dim, making it hard for


    anyone to see clearly. His voice was muffled as he said, ¡°I can remember them.¡±


    When Josie cast a casual nce at him, she suddenly found the waiter somewhat familiar, yet she


    couldn¡¯t recall where she had seen him before.


    Charles asked Josie about her dietary restrictions, then ordered two dishes.


    The waiter seemed somewhat impatient, but as he stepped forward to retrieve the menu, he was


    abruptly halted by a sternmand from Mallory.


    ¡°Wait a moment!¡±


    She quickly walked up to the waiter, tilting her head as she asked, ¡°Do all your uniforms look like this?


    Baseball caps andrge masks? Aren¡¯t these the standard essories only used by celebrities?¡±

 Chapter 1016

    Chapter 1016


    Josie, noticing the waiter¡¯s disbelief, felt a bit embarrassed. She tugged at Mallory¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Aren¡¯t you


    being impolite?¡±


    ¡°In these times, one can never be too cautious.¡±


    After Mallory finished speaking, the waiter slightly lifted his head unexpectedly, revealing his eyes


    previously concealed under the baseball cap. His pitch-ck pupils carried a hidden sharpness that


    resembled the sh of a de being unsheathed. Just like that, he stared directly at Mallory.


    Suddenly, Mallory felt her legs weaken.


    Why does an ordinary waiter like him have such an intense gaze?


    The atmosphere grew tense. Josie wanted to intervene and defuse the situation, but all she heard was


    the waiter straining his voice to the point of distortion, gritting his teeth as he replied to Mallory, ¡°I have


    a skin condition.¡±


    Mallory stood rooted to the spot, wondering why the voice sounded so familiar to her.


    Who is he? Who is he? I just can¡¯t remember.


    The words struck a chord with Josie¡¯s maternal instincts. She stepped forward, gently pulling Mallory


    away and apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my friend didn¡¯t mean it. She¡¯s a little mentally challenged.¡±


    Even when all the dishes were served, Mallory, who had ordered arge amount of food, sat at the


    table with a listless look on her face.


    Josie asked her, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Mallory was still affected by the harsh, icy gaze from earlier. This can¡¯t be¡­ How can I possibly be


    intimidated by the gaze of a mere waiter?


    This time, when she looked up, she still saw the same waiter serving the dishes.


    Mallory gave him aplex stare, desperately trying to find a reason for his actions.


    Josie scolded her for herck of manners but then let it go.


    Charles continued, ¡°I assume you¡¯re aware that the Olsen family has made a great effort to find you. If


    possible, I hope you can give them a chance. If your grandfather were still alive, he would have wanted


    the same.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    When the topic of her grandfather came up, Josie lowered her head slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll consider it,¡± she said.


    The clientele of this restaurant was always from high society. Suddenly, the sound of shattering ss


    echoed from the adjacent room.


    The sound was crisp and piercing, a clear indication that something had been thrown with incredible


    force. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows by the street, one could clearly see a group of people


    inside.


    A girl stood across from them and was being pulled by someone, yet she maintained her stance, her


    chest heaving. ¡°Don¡¯t go too far!¡±


    She pointed towards a young man who was seated there, two buttons of his shirt undone, while his


    legs crossed in a rxed manner. Wearing a smirk, he raised his eyebrows to reveal a look of disdain.


    He was still holding his phone in one hand, and when he casually spoke, there was an unexpected


    seriousness in his tone. ¡°Let¡¯s set aside the fact that this matter is beyond you. Even if it isn¡¯t, how


    much could you really handle? You are just my father¡¯s illegitimate daughter, so you shouldn¡¯t even


    dream of getting a share of our family¡¯s assets.¡±


    Everyone at the table dared not speak. Exchanging nces, they were unsure of who to restrain.


    Just as the girl, in her growing frustration, was about to throw something once again, someone entered


    from outside. Startled by the scene, they eximed, ¡°Put that down, now!¡±


    As the man approached, he observed the standoff between the two parties, still unaware of what had


    transpired. He could only start byforting the young girl, ¡°What happened this time? Didn¡¯t I tell you


    before? Your brother is naive. You need to be more patient with him.¡±


    No sooner had these words left his mouth, than he felt a kick to his calf. The man behind him was


    clearly displeased. ¡°Screw you.¡±


    The girl mmed her hand on the table, her indignation growing. ¡°I know you¡¯re all siding with him


    because you grew up together, but what about me? My mother is gone, and I have nothing but the


    label of an illegitimate daughter. Can¡¯t I even ask for something?¡±

 Chapter 1017

    Chapter 1017


    ¡°You¡¯re being ridiculous,¡± the person continued. ¡°Those assets belong to our family. How can an


    illegitimate daughter possibly covet them?¡±


    Josie had grown tired of the ongoing disputes among wealthy families.


    She said to Charles, ¡°I¡¯m not going back because of all the constant bickering. It¡¯s exhausting and


    draining. I have no desire to live the high society life either. Could you please pass a message to the


    Olsen family for me? I have no ns of returning, so they need not worry. They should focus on their


    health.¡±


    After much hesitation, Charles finally nodded in agreement. He nced back at the waiter standing


    behind him.


    The waiter grew impatient under Mallory¡¯s intense gaze. With a lift of his head, he gave her a warning


    look, as if to say that if she kept staring, he would harm her.


    Mallory was shocked, and her hand holding the fork trembled involuntarily. In that moment, it seemed


    as if she had figured out who this person was.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Mallory¡¯s eyes widened, turning slightly bloodshot.


    Meanwhile, as the conversation became lively, Charles informed Josie, ¡°That restaurant is owned by


    my friend. The taste is very authentic. You can try it out sometime in the future.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Mallory nced at the nearby waiter and spoke teasingly, ¡°Mr. Zimmerman, isn¡¯t this


    wrong? Sacrificing your own friends for the sake of the Olsen family?¡±


    This remark was harsh, and Josie tugged at Mallory¡¯s clothes in response.


    Charles¡¯ face turned somewhat awkward.


    Josie quickly smoothed things over. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely visit more often in the future, although I might not be


    in Wavery as frequently.¡±


    This remark made all three people look up simultaneously.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    The waiter setting the table had a fiery gaze.


    ¡°I found a job in Rivodia, and I might settle down there.¡±


    ¡°Settle down?¡± Mallory choked on her food, raising her hand resolutely. ¡°Waiter, bring me a ss of


    water, quickly!¡±


    After she finished speaking, the waiter, who was always ready, made no move.


    The atmosphere quickly became tense.


    Mallory impatiently lifted her head, meeting the waiter¡¯s gaze. His eyes, seemingly capable of speech,


    seemed to ask her if she really wanted the water.


    She gasped, swiftly retracting her hand and hanging her head again. ¡°I don¡¯t need it anymore!¡±


    Josie watched in bewilderment, a thought suddenly popping into her mind. Even Mallory can¡¯t order


    them around. This restaurant¡¯s waitstaff truly has an attitude to contend with.


    In the end, Mallory couldn¡¯t withstand the intense gazes and left for the restroom.


    When she returned, Josie checked the time and saw that it was gettingte. She then bid farewell to


    Charles and left.


    When they called over the waiter to settle the bill, the waiter responded with a puzzled expression, ¡°The


    bill for this private room has already been paid by someone else.¡±


    Charles and Josie exchanged nces, while Mallory clearly knew what was going on. She couldn¡¯t


    help but chuckle softly to herself. Looking up, she saw that the ¡°waiter¡± had already disappeared


    without a trace, just as she expected.


    ¡°Could there have been a mistake?¡± Josie asked, regretfully. ¡°Could you please tell me the name of the


    person who paid the bill?¡±


    The waiter lowered his head awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid¡­ that¡¯s not possible.¡±


    Mallory came over just in time to smooth over the situation. ¡°Let¡¯s just forget it. Aren¡¯t we supposed to


    be happy when a debtor pays us back? Let¡¯s go. It¡¯s time to head home.¡±


    Charles said, ¡°I¡¯ll have the driver take you all home.¡±


    Josie politely declined, ¡°No need, we have a car.¡±


    At that moment, Mallory¡¯s gaze unexpectedly met with a group of people emerging from the elevator.


    Upon seeing who it was, she was stunned on the spot.


    Not hearing Mallory¡¯s voice, Josie looked over in surprise and was somewhat taken aback upon seeing


    the person Mallory was staring at¡ªCalvin.

 Chapter 1018

    Chapter 1018


    The two groups of people stood frozen in ce, like characters in a paused scene from a television


    drama.


    Mallory was not only dumbfounded by the sight of Calvin, but also because he was holding another


    woman in his arms.


    It was his rumored new love interest.


    When the person behind Calvin saw Mallory, he eagerly tried to please her. Unaware of the situation,


    he blurted out in a sycophantic tone, ¡°Ms. Whiteford¡­¡±


    An rm went off in Mallory¡¯s mind.


    The still air seemed to ignite, but Mallory quickly regained her impable smile, as if she wasn¡¯t


    surprised at all.


    She continued to walk forward, ready to unleash a torrent of harsh usations and questions.


    However, before she could get close, the woman leaning against Calvin spoke up. Her voice dripped


    with sarcasm, while her smile was filled with disdain. ¡°Oh, Ms. Whiteford, what are you wearing today?


    Have you gone broke?¡±


    Mallory¡¯s brisk steps came to a sudden halt. Surprisingly, her first reaction wasn¡¯t to look at herself or


    scrutinize her attire. Instead, she fixed her gaze directly on Calvin.


    The surprise and urge tofort Mallory that Calvin had just moments ago were reced with


    numbness. It was as if she had embarrassed him.


    But the sting was fleeting. Mallory¡¯s instinctive pride kicked in, and she lifted her head once more,


    nodding at Calvin. ¡°What a coincidence.¡±


    If you won¡¯t speak, then let me do the talking. ¡°I heard that yourpany was nning to promote a


    neer, a beautiful woman. Is this her? She seems familiar. Dealing with her dark past could be


    challenging, especially considering her previous job as a hostess.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Indeed, she used to work as a hostess in Heaven on Earth, under Mallory¡¯s management. Back then,


    everyone envied her because she had managed to keep Calvin¡¯s affection for so many years.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    But times had changed.


    The experienced Calvin nced at the graceless woman beside him and said coolly, ¡°Go back and tidy


    up. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    As he spoke, he still didn¡¯t let her go, seemingly dering to the world that Mallory was truly a thing of


    the past.


    Subconsciously, Josie knew she should whisk Mallory away at that moment. However, before she


    could approach, Mallory, who had been staring at Calvin for quite some time, suddenly rushed forward


    and delivered a resounding p.


    Calvin¡¯s face turned from the blow, causing everyone to gasp. The woman beside him covered her


    mouth in disbelief.


    Josie was also taken aback.


    Calvin, who had nopassion for women, grabbed Mallory¡¯s hand, his eyes bloodshot. ¡°Are you


    crazy?¡±


    Mallory remained unfazed. ¡°Are you trying to disgust me by being with someone like that?¡±


    Calvin¡¯s movements slowed slightly, and after a moment, there was a hint ofpromise in his tone. ¡°I


    haven¡¯t done anything with her. You¡¯re letting your imagination run wild. I don¡¯t me you for not


    trusting me, so why are you so angry?¡±


    What angered him was that in the brief moment their eyes met, she immediately assumed that he was


    the one who had done those things.


    The woman who was being ignored turned deathly pale.


    Charles averted his gaze. ¡°It seems Ms. Whiteford will be upied for a while. Are you sure you don¡¯t


    need me to take you home?¡±


    Indeed, that¡¯s true.


    Josie had epted the fact that she had been abandoned. ¡°That¡¯s not necessary.¡±


    She hailed a cab to return home. Unexpectedly, she caught a glimpse in the rearview mirror of a car


    following her from a distance. This car had been tailing her since she left the restaurant.


    Is it a tail?


    Instinctively, Josie reached into her bag for her phone while urging the driver to speed up.


    However, the car behind showed no signs of stopping. It was moving incredibly fast, almost overtaking


    her. Just as the two vehicles were side by side, the other party rolled down the window.

 Chapter 1019

    Chapter 1019


    Dexter? Josie¡¯s brows furrowed suddenly, a look of confusion appearing on her face as she observed


    him. His expression was grim, and he gave her a meaningful nce.


    She had no choice but to request the driver to stop.


    Knowing Dexter¡¯s determination, he wouldn¡¯t rest until he achieved his goal. There was a possibility


    that he might start a street race right there on the road.


    ¡°Why are you following me?¡± Josie asked directly as she exited the car.


    Dexter was no longer as deste as he had been the day before. He had be much colder. He


    abruptly grabbed Josie¡¯s hand and pushed her into the passenger seat. ¡°This is not the ce to talk.¡±


    ¡°Could anyone possibly eavesdrop in broad daylight?¡± Josie stood still, displeased with the fact that she


    was being followed. ¡°Whatever you have to say, say it here and now.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was intense. However, there was a touch of grievance hidden within. ¡°Regardless of


    your reasons, stay in Wavery for now.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Upon hearing those words, Josie immediately understood most of it. Her eyebrows furrowed and then


    rxed as she asked, ¡°Who told you?¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    ¡°Was it Charles?¡±


    ¡°Rivodia is not a safe ce. Without protection, you could get into trouble. If you¡¯re looking for Paul,


    wait until I¡¯ve finished dealing with¡ª¡±


    Josie interrupted him, ¡°Dexter.¡±


    He came to an abrupt halt, the cold hardness failing to conceal his underlying irritation.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me it was you who arranged for Charles to meet me.¡± She was incredibly astute. The


    direction from which Dexter hade was clearly from that restaurant, indicating that he had been


    present during her conversation with Charles.


    Who was it? Immediately, Josie recalled that peculiar waiter.


    Dexter neither confirmed nor denied, refusing to let go of her hand. ¡°In any case, stay for now.¡±


    Josie looked at the man in front of her, instantly seething with anger. ¡°Have you lost your mind, Dexter?


    Do you have too much free time? What kind of critical moment is this, and you¡¯re here ying cosy


    with me? It seems the crisis of Russell Group isn¡¯t as serious as it seems.¡±


    Dexter simply listened to her cold mockery and scathing sarcasm in silence. When she finished, he


    repeated his earlier statement, ¡°Stay in Wavery for now.¡±


    ¡°The one who wanted to send me away before this was you, and now the one who wants to keep me


    here is also you. Am I your employee? Am I supposed to be summoned and dismissed at your whim?¡±


    Josieughed as she spoke. She truly felt a sense of mockery.


    The winter sun cast a pale, weary glow on the man¡¯s face, yet the resilience within him remained


    undiminished.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. Everything is fine as long as you¡¯re still willing to be angry with me.¡± Dexter suddenly


    laughed, a chilling smile that could make anyone shudder.


    Josie furrowed her brows, feeling a tinge of fear from his reaction. Dexter has truly lost his mind.


    But that was indeed what he thought. As long as there were emotional ups and downs, it was fine. He


    didn¡¯t want it to be like the night before, so calm and rational, devoid of any feelings for him. That was


    too terrifying, something he couldn¡¯t bear.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have sought out Charles overnight, asking for his help in persuasion. However,


    unexpectedly, he heard the news again that she was nning to leave Wavery.


    Dexter felt like he was on the verge of going insane.


    Both of them were dressed modestly, yet their demeanor and physique were eye-catching. Having


    stood by the street for a while, they attracted quite a few nces.


    Morgan was driving past this area. He only took a quick nce initially and had already driven past


    when he realized something was amiss. ¡°Ryan! Turn the car around!¡± he eximed.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to prolong their conversation. ¡°Dexter, now that you¡¯re back with Russell Group, you


    should focus on your responsibilities. Don¡¯t waste any more time,¡± she said.


    Unexpectedly, he didn¡¯t pay attention to a single word of what was said the night before and was


    wasting his time on such meaningless matters. In Josie¡¯s eyes, he wasn¡¯t the type of person to act so


    impulsively.

 Chapter 1020

    Chapter 1020


    ¡°Jo.¡± Dexter¡¯s veins bulged as he held her hand, refusing to let go. He then spoke calmly and


    decisively, ¡°Josie¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish speaking, a figure suddenly appeared from behind, apanied by a familiar


    voice. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Josie looked up in astonishment, only to find, to her surprise, that Morgan had appeared. He clenched


    his fist and swung it directly. Dexter happened to turn his head at that moment, receiving the punch


    squarely.


    A muffled sound echoed.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Dexter subtly turned his face away, a hint of disbelief in his eyes. Immediately after, Morgan grabbed


    his cor. ¡°You dare to show up. Don¡¯t you have any self-awareness?¡±


    Those words were blunt, and the actions were equally so, clearly disying an irritation that had been


    building up for quite some time.


    Dexter gripped his wrist tightly, skillfully pushing him away. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t retaliate, not wanting to resort to violence in front of Josie.


    Morgan was about to step forward, but Josie sensed something was off. She immediately positioned


    herself between the two, eximing, ¡°Enough!¡±


    She certainly didn¡¯t want to embarrass herself in public, and her patience was nearly exhausted. She


    turned around and asked Morgan, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I went to your house to look for you, but I didn¡¯t expect to run into you on the road,¡± Morgan said, his


    voice slightly slurred. He pulled Josie behind him. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. As long as I¡¯m here, he won¡¯t be


    able to bother you.¡±


    Dexter approached, carrying with him the scent of blood. With a wicked she should be afraid of is you.¡±


    Morgan couldn¡¯t tolerate such provocation and was about to step forward again, but Josie firmly held


    his arm. She was clearly annoyed as she said, ¡°Is there an end to this?¡±


    Upon noticing Dexter¡¯s gaze falling on their touching posture, Morgan also became aware of it and


    simplyplied. ¡°Mr. Russell, it seems that the crisis at Russell Group isn¡¯t keeping you busy enough.


    If you need more work, I¡¯d be happy to oblige.¡±


    Dexter ignored him and fixed his gaze on Josie. ¡°Stay in Wavery.¡±


    Morgan then asked, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond to anyone. She weighed her options and said, ¡°I¡¯m going back.¡±


    Morgan immediately followed. ¡°Let me take you,¡± he said, opening the car door beside him.


    After a moment of hesitation, Josie decided to sit down, realizing that it was impossible to hail a cab in


    that area.


    Just as the car door was about to close, the man a few steps away spoke again, ¡°If you¡¯re looking for


    Paul, you don¡¯t need to go to Rivodia. You might find some clues if youe to me.¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Morgan paused momentarily in closing the car door. His expression


    stiffened subtly, almost imperceptibly. But looking at Josie, it was clear she had heard, yet she showed


    no reaction.


    Having driven a considerable distance, the figure of Dexter in the rearview mirror had dwindled to a


    mere speck.


    Morgan then spoke somewhat cautiously, ¡°About what Dexter said just now¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired. I want to sleep for a while,¡± Josie interrupted him and closed her eyes.


    Morgan stared at her emotionless face for a while before finally retracting all the words he had intended


    to say.


    Upon reaching her residence, Josie got out of the car directly. She thanked Morgan, who was following


    her. He said, ¡°If you ever grow tired of everything in Wavery,e with me to Rivodia.¡±


    Josie remained silent, pressing the elevator button. ¡°You should leave, Morgan.¡±


    The two exchanged a serious look, and thetter understood everything, nodding in response.


    ¡°Regardless of the time, you can alwayse to find me.¡±


    Josie was not someone to be pressured. If pushed too far, she was capable of anything, a fact that


    Morgan deeply believed.


    Upon returning to her residence, she found that most of her belongings had already been moved. Her


    lease was about to expire, and she couldn¡¯t stay there much longer.


    She sat by the bay window, once again recalling Dexter¡¯s words.

 Chapter 1021

    Chapter 1021


    It was the same old saying. When Dexter was willing, he was a master at uplifting people¡¯s spirits.


    Apart from financial matters, he was meticulous in every aspect.


    Once, Josie believed that if any other woman had met him, she would be cherished just as much.


    However, at that moment, he waspletely lost, unsure of what to do. The look in his eyes as he


    gazed at her was filled with confusion, tinged with caution. It was nothing like before.


    In the depths of the winter night, the rows of elm trees outside Mason Garden had shed all their leaves,


    appearing deste under the glow of the streetmps. Taking a breath, all one could feel was the cold


    air.


    It was three in the morning, and Josie stood outside, knocking on the door.


    The bodyguard standing guard outside saw her, but instead of stopping her, he wore a look of pleasant


    surprise.


    Dexter opened the door, still dressed as he had been in the afternoon. A stubble of blue had sprouted


    on his chin, making him look physically and mentally exhausted. However, upon seeing her, a glimmer


    of joy could be seen in his eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. I came for Paul¡¯s clues,¡± she said.


    The door was half-open, allowing the cold air to continuously seep in, which considerably cleared


    Dexter¡¯s mind.


    ¡°I know.¡± He stood aside and continued, ¡°Paul wasst seen under Arnold¡¯s control. Rachel admitted to


    having seen him.¡±


    Josie walked in, frowning as she looked at him.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Dexter quickly said, ¡°She wants to see you.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes when she heard that. Well, in the end, I still can¡¯t escape.


    When she opened her eyes, she was startled to see a ckputer sitting on the living room table. It


    was the one Morgan had given her.


    Next to theputer, there was also a phone case, which had clearly been opened and inspected.


    Rarely, Josie felt a moment of guilt.


    Dexter wore an expressionless face as he walked over, casually exining, ¡°Moses found it while


    cleaning up the scene.¡±


    Having brought her back, he had certainly checked everything, and he knew that she had been


    eavesdropping on him all along.


    ¡°Feeling ufortable?¡± He sat on the carpet, removing the listening device that was attached to his


    phone case.


    Josie stood still, unmoving. Dexter hadn¡¯t turned on the heater, making the inside feel even colder than


    the outside.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Were you upset when you constantly heard about my interactions with Rachel back then?¡± Dexter


    conjured a mocking smile that was devoid of anger. His expression was only filled with heartache and


    helplessness.


    Josie deliberately overlooked the bitterness of that moment, turning her head away. ¡°No. Back then, I


    just wanted to know your travel ns.¡±


    ¡°When was it installed?¡± Dexter pulled out a cigarette and lit it up.


    He took a puff. As the smoke dispersed in the air, his eyes were clear and bright.


    Josie was unwilling to meet his gaze. ¡°Where is Rachel?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Russell Mansion.¡± His gaze remained persistent, leaving her with no choice but to tell the truth.


    That was after the grandfather wasid to rest.


    Dexter nodded in understanding, refraining from furtherment. He simply continued to smoke.


    Strangely enough, whenever Josie saw him silently smoking, her heart would still ache.


    After finishing his cigarette, he gave her a bitter smile tinged with a hint of appeasement. ¡°I¡¯ll take you


    to meet Rachel at dawn. It¡¯s toote now,¡± he said.


    Josie found a corner to sit down, her arms wrapped around her knees. Suddenly, she said, ¡°If there had


    been a moment in the past when you were willing to exin things to me, we wouldn¡¯t have ended up


    here.¡±


    The brutal truth pierced Dexter¡¯s heart directly, and he finally understood the meaning of toote for


    regrets.


    However, there was no going back. Many things in life would never leave room for regret. By the time


    realization struck, it was already toote.


    Josie had taught him a profound lesson, and that was the true meaning of loss.

 Chapter 1022

    Chapter 1022


    The winter dawn arrived slowly, and Josie couldn¡¯t resist falling asleep. When she woke up, she found


    herself unexpectedly in the master bedroom.


    That ce was once filled with countless remnants of their lives.


    She furrowed her brow and got up to open the door, only to find Dexter waiting outside. He had already


    taken a bath, but hisplexion didn¡¯t look good, as if he hadn¡¯t slept.


    The two met, their politeness creating such a distance between them that they didn¡¯t know what to say.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll take you there now.¡±


    Rachel was being held captive by him in a secluded location. After taking numerous turns, they finally


    arrived in a dpidated old residential area, which was heavily guarded by dedicated personnel.


    Josie asked, ¡°Did you also confine Edward here?¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    He moved through the darkness, making his way down the corridor until he reached the end, where he


    instructed his bodyguard to open the door.


    Rachel had been confined for a long time, and her mental state had deteriorated somewhat. Upon


    hearing the sound of the door opening, she immediately shouted, ¡°Let me out! Dexter! Let me out!¡±


    She was seated, her wrists and ankles bound, surrounded by dried bloodstains. Josie recognized the


    scene instantly. It mirrored the circumstances of her own past captivity.


    Dexter was doing the same thing to Rachel.


    Her hair was disheveled, her eyes sagged with bags underneath, no longer possessing the radiance


    she had before.


    Her crazed gaze became even more frenzied upon seeing Josie, and she was about to rush at her.


    ¡°You b*tch!¡±


    Josie took a step back while Dexter stepped forward to block Rachel. Their movements were perfectly


    synchronized.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    He said, ¡°Let¡¯s talk at the door. She could hurt someone.¡±


    Josie nced at Rachel, thought for a moment, and said, ¡°It¡¯s all right. Have someone keep watch. I¡¯ll


    go in and talk.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brow, revealing his worry. Josie had already brushed past his arm, heading straight


    inside.


    Fortunately, there was nothing there that could be used to harm others. Josie and Rachel stood facing


    each other, thetter¡¯s eyes filled with aplex mix of emotions, brimming with jealousy.


    Rachel gritted her teeth. ¡°I can¡¯t believe Johnny didn¡¯t kill you.¡±


    ¡°He almost did,¡± Josie quickly responded. ¡°You almost seeded.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. How am I any less than you? I had everything you had and even more. I could be a


    good wife and a good daughter! But you couldn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°It was precisely because you were too perfect. Indeed, you yed your part very well. Arnold trained


    you sessfully, too. For a long time, I never doubted your identity,¡± Josie said.


    At that moment, Rachel¡¯s face showed the effects of neglect.


    ¡°Your downfall was your excessive meticulousness. You may have deceived everyone under the


    heavens, but I am the real Liana. How could you possibly deceive me?¡± Josie leaned in slightly. ¡°You


    even went as far as tattooing a birthmark identical to mine on your back. Unfortunately for you, I saw it.¡±


    Rachel had a sudden realization, and she remembered something. ¡°You knew all along and had been


    nning for so long.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t deny it. ¡°Yes. I¡¯ve been watching you act like a clown!¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you expose me from the start?¡±


    ¡°Because I wanted to see how far you could go. While gathering evidence, I also wanted to see how


    others would react.¡±


    When Josie mentioned ¡°the others,¡± she meant many people, but the most crucial among them was


    Dexter. Yet, every move he made exceeded her expectations.


    To her, that was the greatest harm.


    ¡°You endured all this time, holding back until the day I married Dexter. Your goal was to let everyone


    witness that I am a fraud,¡± Rachel recounted in disbelief. Her expression was fierce, unable to imagine


    that Josie could be so ruthless.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Josie readily admitted. ¡°I¡¯m very grateful for the opportunity you¡¯ve given me.¡±

 Chapter 1023

    Chapter 1023


    ¡°Your former best friend has already secured five million and is now living a prosperous life with her


    family. For her, it¡¯s a fair deal. Mark, who assisted in your abduction of me, identally injured himself.


    Now, he is facing multiple charges and awaits sentencing.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°As for Arnold, his whereabouts remain unknown to this day.¡±


    With everything said and done, Rachel found herself in a nearly hopeless situation. She stared nkly


    at the ceiling, imagining her impending fate.


    Suddenly, she spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t be too pleased with yourself, Josie. I have never regretted it.¡±


    Josie remained silent, waiting for Rachel¡¯s next words.


    ¡°On the contrary, I am deeply grateful to Arnold. Without him, I would still be an unwanted orphan. Just


    an ordinary person among the masses, struggling for three meals a day, looked down upon by others,


    with no one to rely on. He gave me an opportunity, and I seized it desperately. If I hadn¡¯t held on tightly,


    that would have been my fate.¡± Rachel spoke softly. ¡°At least I have experienced the life of the wealthy,


    and I have seen what a good man in this world looks like. I knew all along that Dexter was using me,


    but I didn¡¯t want to believe it. I preferred to think that he had even a shred of genuine feelings for me,


    even if it was just for the identity of Liana!¡±


    ¡°You have never experienced it, have you? Distributing flyers in the biting cold of winter, a task that


    took up an entire day, just to earn a living. Washing thousands of dishes every day, regardless of


    whether you were studying or working. Always having to cater to others¡¯ whims. I have had enough of


    such days. You are truly fortunate.¡± Rachel¡¯s dry eyes suddenly welled up with tears. ¡°Why is it that you


    can effortlessly receive all of Dexter¡¯s love? You are even the real Liana, the future heir of the Olsen


    family. All the beauty in this world is bestowed upon you. Why is it so? It¡¯s just not fair¡­¡±


    This person had simply gone mad. Josie looked at her, suddenly letting out a scoff, ¡°I never thought


    you were like me in the past, but now I find quite a resemnce. ¡°Everything you¡¯ve mentioned, I have


    experienced it all. You say you are an orphan with no one to rely on. However, at least you didn¡¯t have


    to endure the hardship of a seriously ill father in the hospital, unable to afford the medical bills. Washing


    dishes, handing out flyers, setting up stalls, and working part-time as a tutor, I have done it all. I even


    worked several jobs in a day. I have had it much, much harder than you. Would you still say I was


    fortunate if you had seen me back then? As for the Olsen family, I admit that I am Liana, but I am


    reluctant to return to that ce.¡±


    Josie looked down at Rachel, her gaze filled with disdain.


    Thetter clearly didn¡¯t believe her. She refused to believe that Josie had such an experience. After a


    moment, she said, ¡°You have to admit, if Dexter hadn¡¯t helped you, you wouldn¡¯t have been sessful


    in exposing me. You would have been forever under my foot, unnoticed by anyone.¡±


    Even at that point, she was still regretting not being more meticulous, more ruthless.


    Josie paused for a moment, her gaze instinctively drifting towards the door. Rachel was right. If it


    weren¡¯t for Dexter, I wouldn¡¯t have had such a smooth journey. Regardless, he had lent me a hand, and


    that is why I am where I am today.


    Meanwhile, outside the door, Dexter was leaning against the wall, having finished smoking three


    cigarettes. Secretary Huo¡¯s phone calls kepting in, one after another, reminding him that the


    meeting had already started ten minutes ago. If he didn¡¯t show up soon, the shareholders were going to


    lose their minds.


    Yet, Dexter kept saying, ¡°Just wait a little longer.¡±


    Seeing the situation unfold, Moses couldn¡¯t stand by any longer. He attempted to reassure him, ¡°Don¡¯t


    worry about Josie. With me and the others here, nothing will happen.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t voice whether it was good or bad, he just continued to smoke.

 Chapter 1024

    Chapter 1024


    Josie fell silent, no longer willing to speak. She approached Rachel and said, ¡°Listen, I know there are


    many things you haven¡¯t exined. I won¡¯t interfere with the rest, but I just want to know where Arnold


    hid my father, Paul. You know, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Rachel smiled faintly. ¡°At this point, do you really think I would tell you? I wish


    nothing more than for you to suffer more than death, Josie.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed deeply, and her calm facade finally shattered. ¡°Is it your intention to make my


    life a living hell? Rachel, don¡¯t you care about your own life anymore? If you provide me with useful


    clues, I can persuade Dexter to let you go.¡±


    ¡°Let me go, and then what? I would end up dead, caught in the crossfire of some power struggle. I


    would rather stay here where it¡¯s safe, even if it means enduring some hardship,¡± Rachel taunted. ¡°As


    far as I know, you¡¯ve lost the use of half your limbs, haven¡¯t you? It rained heavily for days, and you


    were tied up for two of them. Don¡¯t tell me it didn¡¯t affect you.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie couldn¡¯t help but clench her fists tightly.


    Without any backing or leverage to threaten with, Rachel was truly at a loss with Josie. After a long


    while, she finally calmed down.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it that you just don¡¯t want to see me seed? So, give me the clues. Once I find Paul, I¡¯ll leave


    Wavery and go abroad, and I won¡¯t be with Dexter anymore.¡±


    After hearing that, Rachel widened her eyes in disbelief. She hadn¡¯t expected Josie to be so reckless.


    ¡°Are you out of your mind? He¡¯s just your foster father!¡± Is it really worth giving up Dexter for him?


    ¡°We are forever indebted to our parents who raised us. I am willing to do anything for him,¡± Josie


    dered, each word measured and deliberate.


    She couldn¡¯t see, but the man outside the iron gate, upon hearing her words, didn¡¯t take another puff of


    his cigarette for a long time. He let the ember burn down to his fingertips, the searing pain jolting him


    back to reality, causing him to furrow his brow.


    ¡°How can I trust you? Even if I reveal the clues to you, you might still stick around,¡± Rachel expressed


    doubtfully.


    ¡°Just as you said, as things have progressed to this point, I no longer have feelings for Dexter, and I


    certainly won¡¯t in the future. Therefore, there¡¯s nothing worth lingering over. All I want now is to find


    Paul and live a peaceful life.¡±


    The two words ¡®no feelings¡¯ seemed nonchnt, but only Josie knew she uttered them with a certain


    reluctance.


    Rachel still didn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Even if you¡¯re willing to do this, Dexter might not be. He won¡¯t let you


    leave.¡±


    ¡°My heart is no longer with him. He won¡¯t force me to stay,¡± said Josie.


    Understanding Dexter all too well, she knew those words would hurt him.


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    Larry¡¯s call came through again. ¡°Mr. Russell, we really can¡¯t wait any longer. Mr. Harrison is causing a


    scene in the conference room. He¡¯s rallying the board members to impeach you.¡±


    Dexter closed his eyes for a moment.


    ¡°How can I trust you?¡± Rachel asked.


    Josie pondered for a moment. ¡°When I leave, I¡¯lle to set you free. You can watch me board the


    ne then.¡±


    Five minutester, Josie left the room only to find Moses and the bodyguards. Dexter was nowhere to


    be seen, with only cigarette butts littering the floor.


    She paused for a moment. ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°Russell Group had an urgent matter to attend to, so he left early,¡± Moses quickly replied, fearing she


    might misunderstand. ¡°But he will return.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze was distant and deep. ¡°There¡¯s no need for him to return.¡±


    Those were matters he was meant to handle. Some people are destined to shine within their own


    domain, not to stagnate for her sake.


    Moses didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Huh?¡±


    He thought everything hade to an end, that Josie should have been happily together with Dexter.


    Yet, things seemed to be growing increasingly unfamiliar.


    Before Josie left earlier, Rachel mentioned that she had once seen the figure of Scar, apanied by


    Paul, departing. They were headed for Rivodia.


    Indeed, it was Rivodia.

 Chapter 1025

    Chapter 1025


    However, a significant amount of time had passed, and Scar¡¯s whereabouts remained unknown.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Rachel also mentioned, ¡°I once heard Arnold express his desire to have someone take Paul out of the


    country.¡±


    Josie had Moses apany her to the police station, where she had arranged to meet with Scott.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t neglect the investigation into Scar,¡± Scott exined. ¡°However, he disappeared once he


    reached Rivodia, and our colleagues there were unable to locate him. However, we recently came


    across a suspicious individual who bears a striking resemnce to Scar. He has changed his name


    and moved abroad. We are still conducting our investigation.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°Where did he go?¡±


    ¡°Iugrea,¡± Scott quickly added. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, we are still investigating. Nothing has been confirmed


    yet.¡±


    ¡°No, Sergeant Buncho. Rachel told me herself. She heard Arnold say he was going to send Paul


    abroad. Therefore, it must have been Scarface who took him away!¡± Josie urgently pleaded, ¡°Please


    tell me where he went. It¡¯s very important to me.¡±


    Scott clearly hesitated to speak, as it went against the rules. However, seeing how agitated Josie was,


    and considering she couldn¡¯t directly fly out of the country, he reluctantly replied, ¡°The suspected


    destination is Friyx. However, I¡¯m not sure which city specifically.¡±


    Once abroad, finding him would be like finding a needle in a haystack.


    Josie took a deep breath, genuinely puzzled as to why Arnold wanted to send Paul away.


    After leaving the police station, Josie seemed lost in thought. Moses was driving and making a phone


    call at the same time, speaking in a low voice. ¡°I hope Mr. Russell is alright.¡±


    Josie slowly snapped back to reality, only asking after the call ended, ¡°What happened to Dexter?¡±


    Moses appeared troubled. ¡°He wouldn¡¯t let me tell you¡­¡±


    Josie¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Then don¡¯t say anything.¡±


    Moses couldn¡¯t resist and quickly added, ¡°There¡¯s trouble within the organization. Regardless of the


    power struggle among the higher-ups, I just hope that Mr. Russell cane out on top.¡±


    Dexter seemed invincible.


    Josie understood most of it. She pressed her brow, only then realizing that today was Monday, the day


    of Russell Group¡¯s board meeting.


    ¡°Take me to Russell Group,¡± she said.


    Moses was momentarily stunned, but his eyes quickly lit up. ¡°Alright then,¡± he said, stepping on the gas


    and speeding away.


    The operations at Russell Group were running smoothly. Under the watchful eyes of many, Josie took


    the elevator all the way up to the top floor. The conference room was filled to capacity, with all ten seats


    upied.


    Through the floor-to-ceiling window, she could see the man in the main seat. He seemed somewhat


    distracted, as if he wasn¡¯t paying any attention to themotion around him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. The current situation of Russell Group requires us to proceed step by step. One


    must learn to walk before they run. Dexter, you wanted to coborate with the Olsen family to expand


    our territory, but what happened? You failed!¡± A bespectacled elderly man began to speak.


    It was none other than Seth. He spoke sternly out of a sense of justice. ¡°Take a look at the current


    market situation. Russell Group is on the brink of copse. If we don¡¯t change our strategy soon, we¡¯ll


    be devoured eventually.¡±


    The directors engaged in a heated discussion, echoing in agreement.


    Upon seeing that, the secretarial staff outside couldn¡¯t help butment, ¡°Such an opportunistic


    scoundrel.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, twirling a pen in his hand, lost in thought.


    ¡°Especially at your wedding. I thought it would be a joyous asion for all. I didn¡¯t expect such a


    scene. You were still too immature!¡±


    ¡°I heard that on that day, you already knew and acted deliberately. Is it true?¡±


    The directors closed in relentlessly.


    Only then did Dexter have no choice but to speak, his tone weary yet nonchnt. ¡°It¡¯s true.¡±


    There was an uproar below.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that mean you betrayed Russell Group?¡±

 Chapter 1026

    Chapter 1026


    Dexter¡¯s voice boomed through the room, ¡°So what? Russell Group was built from the ground up by my


    father and even my grandfather¡¯s generation. Even if I decide to give it up, it¡¯s not your ce to


    comment or criticize.¡± Dexter scanned the crowd, his presence finally making an impact.


    Some people fell silent, their protests subdued. However, a few still voiced their concerns, ¡°You can¡¯t


    just abandon tens of thousands of employees. This is not a joke. You¡¯re being reckless. If Old Mr.


    Russell were here, he would never allow you to behave so irresponsibly!¡±


    The mention of Henry sent a jolt through Josie¡¯s heart. She had unexpectedly crossed paths with


    Dexter. But instead of reacting, Dexter raised an eyebrow and scoffed, ¡°Even if he were here, he would


    still support my decision, even if I dismantled and sold Russell Group. Who do you think you are to


    mention my grandfather?¡±


    The power behind his words silenced everyone, leaving them speechless.


    However, the solemn atmosphere was short-lived as Seth stood up once again. ¡°Regardless, Russell


    Group¡¯s current situation requires a solution. We need the right person to take the helm. Dexter, you


    haven¡¯t been well recently. You should rest.¡±


    Dexter looked at him disdainfully, his tone dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Mr. Lockhart, who do you think would


    be more suitable then?¡±


    The intensity in his eyes made Seth, who was over fifty years old, instinctively flinch. Soon, everyone¡¯s


    gaze fell upon a pot-bellied man standing opposite them, his eyes gleaming with shrewdness.


    ¡°Dexter, you must allow those with the capability to take charge. Your experience is still insufficient. I


    have more experience. Rest assured, and leave it to me.¡± It was unmistakably Isaac.


    In an instant, Dexter became the target of everyone¡¯s criticism.


    However, he seemed unfazed, casually propping his head up halfway as he said, ¡°Oh? I heard that you


    have managed to acquire forty-nine percent of the equity.¡±


    His words sounded as if he was discussing the weather, devoid of any emotional fluctuations. Everyone


    exchanged nces.


    Josie observed everything, suddenly realizing that something was amiss. Dexter¡¯s reaction was


    unexpected, unless¡­ he no longer desired to be Russell Group¡¯s CEO.


    Isaac quickly replied, ¡°Of course, we currently hold equal equity, so I am fully entitled to ask the board


    members to vote on your impeachment.¡±


    Dexter nced at everyone. ¡°Is that so? Then let¡¯s begin.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows and walked towards the door, intending to push it open. However, it was


    locked from the other side. She turned around and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    The staff member was in a dilemma. ¡°Mr. Fu meant that it can only be opened from the inside.¡±


    The shareholders had already started raising their hands one after another. Josie felt extremely


    anxious, hoping to catch the attention of either Dexter or Larry. However, their focus was not outside.


    She had no choice but to retrieve her phone and immediately dial Larry¡¯s number. As she watched him


    freeze in surprise, then turn to look in her direction, she could tell he was utterly astonished. ¡°Open the


    door.¡±


    Larry was already drenched in sweat. Seeing the situation, he felt as if he had found a savior. Taking


    advantage of the moment when Dexter was not paying attention, he cautiously approached and turned


    the door lock. The door opened immediately, and Josie saw Isaac standing up and saying, ¡°Six to four.


    Dexter, you¡¯ve lost.¡±


    With the equity evenly held, all the shareholders voted for Isaac. Indeed, Dexter had lost.


    Dexterzily looked over, and to his surprise, he saw Seth also raising his hand. He looked at each one


    of them, then nodded. ¡°I lost.¡±


    Listening closely to those words, one could detect a subtle hint of mockery.


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    Upon hearing those words, Josie couldn¡¯t bear it. She pushed the door open forcefully, creating a


    resounding bang. Her voice was stern as she retorted, ¡°I beg to differ!¡±


    Everyone turned to look, including Dexter. Upon seeing her, he revealed a hint of surprise, his true


    emotions showing. He immediately stood up. ¡°What brings you here?¡±

 Chapter 1027

    Chapter 1027


    Josie stared intently at him. ¡°If I hadn¡¯te, you would have given away Russell Group.¡±


    At this point, everyone recognized Josie¡¯s face. There was a certain level of apprehension, especially


    from Isaac. He had never found an opportunity to take action against this woman. Part of it was due to


    luck, and the other part was because everyone believed that she would never assist Dexter again,


    which gave them confidence.


    To Isaac¡¯s surprise, Josie actually showed up. What was her motive?


    Josie scoffed and casually walked towards Isaac. ¡°Mr. Harrison, you misspoke. Being older doesn¡¯t


    necessarily mean you¡¯re more experienced. Have you settled all the bad debts from your years of


    business outside? Are you nning to use Russell Group to offset your debts?¡±


    Isaac¡¯s face grew paler as she continued speaking.


    ¡°Who do you think you are? So what if you¡¯re the daughter of the Olsen family? You¡¯re nothing more


    than an ex-wife. You¡¯re hardly worthy of speaking here!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a shareholder,¡± Josie said with a rare, radiant smile. ¡°Oh, right, you probably didn¡¯t know. When


    Dexter and I divorced, he transferred one percent of his equity to me.¡±


    Most people were unaware of this. They exchanged nces, seeking confirmation.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°So, I suppose I could be considered one of the shareholders. Come to think of it, I even have voting


    rights,¡± she added.


    ¡°What did you just say? You all agreed to elect Mr. Harrison as the new CEO of Russell Group, didn¡¯t


    you?¡± Josie said, finding the situation increasingly amusing. She thought their expressions were


    priceless.


    ¡°Mr. Harrison, I, well, I disagree.¡± She patted Isaac¡¯s shoulder, showing courage.


    Dexter stood tall and statuesque like an emerald. At that moment, anger was evident on his face,


    gradually turning serious.


    From a distance, Josie watched him.


    ¡°I worked at Russell Group after my graduation. It was my former employer. Throughout all those years,


    I¡¯ve never met a more capable leader than Dexter. I can even understand his intentions to expand his


    territory and form an alliance through marriage with the Olsen family.¡±


    She carefully articted each word, ¡°He once told me that he could sort everything out within a year at


    most. I actually believed him because he was capable.¡±


    Yet, she still despised him.


    Right then, Dexter interrupted, ¡°Josie!¡±


    Back then, the words he had spoken, the ns he had made in his heart, were all rooted in his


    resolution to sacrifice her. Just thinking about it, Dexter¡¯s guilt was almost overwhelming.


    She saw through everything, yet she was still able to consider issues from his perspective.


    Josie swept her gaze over the crowd. ¡°Ask yourselves this. If his n had seeded, how much profit


    would it have brought to Russell Group? How much would your dividends have increased? How dare


    you bite the hand that feeds you? You guys are rather opportunistic, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    At this point, Josie nced at Seth, who dared not meet her eyes, his face turning unsightly.


    ¡°So now that it¡¯s failed, you¡¯re thinking of recing the CEO. Are you guys in a rush to retire?¡±


    After enduring Josie¡¯s tirade, Isaac could bear no more. He rebuked, ¡°What is the point of all this, Ms.


    Warren? A mistake is a mistake. The position should be upied by someone capable, and besides,


    the vote has already been passed!¡±


    ¡°And so what?¡± Josie stood her ground, simultaneously pulling out a document from her bag. ¡°I¡¯ve


    already signed the equity transfer agreement. This one percent equity is unconditionally given to


    Dexter.¡±


    The crowd erupted once again.


    Even Dexter was taken by surprise by her swift actions.


    Seeing Isaac¡¯s face growing increasingly unpleasant, Josie pped the document onto the table. ¡°Take


    a good look at the date on this. It took effect yesterday. Dexter¡¯s actual shareholding is fifty percent,


    surpassing your forty-nine percent. Your vote is invalid.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile grew even brighter as she looked at him. ¡°Mr. Harrison, I¡¯m going all in this time.¡±

 Chapter 1028

    Chapter 1028


    Risking it all, she uttered those words.


    Isaac was so overwhelmed by her presence that he almost took two steps back. He clutched his chest


    and gasped for breath, relying on someone to support him in order to remain steady.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    No one had anticipated that Josie would actually go through with such a daring act.


    What was even more surprising was that she had helped Dexter.


    Even Larry was breaking out in a cold sweat. Josie¡¯s aura was incredibly powerful, exuding both


    coolness and beauty, showing no fear towards anyone.


    Looking at Dexter again, he stood under the sunlight, radiating an endless brightness. However, his


    complexion was terrifyingly gloomy. He didn¡¯t show the slightest hint of gratitude for Josie¡¯s assistance,


    as if it meant nothing to him.


    After Josie hadpleted everything, she finally met his gaze.


    She almost let out a sigh of relief. It was then certain that Dexter would seed as the CEO of Russell


    Group.


    ¡°Does anyone else have any objections?¡±


    Everyone remained silent, and without any agreement, they all left dejectedly. In the end, only Larry


    remained. Thoughtfully, he closed the door behind them.


    In the conference room, only two people remained.


    Josie approached Dexter steadily, extending her hand towards him. ¡°Congrattions,¡± she said.


    The man¡¯s lips were somewhat dry, moving up and down as he asked, ¡°Should I be happy?¡±


    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t you be? No matter how terrible Russell Group might be, it¡¯s still yours. I¡¯ve held it


    together for you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze lingered on her face, unable to look away, filled with immense affection.


    Seeing him remain silent, Josie had no choice but to continue speaking on her own. ¡°Before my


    grandfather passed away, he told me to take good care of you. Naturally, I can¡¯t let you give up on


    yourself.¡±


    He still remained silent.


    ¡°Don¡¯t disappoint me. Those shares are very valuable. It¡¯s already generous of me not to ask you for


    money, so make sure you manage Russell Group well,¡± she said.


    No matter how one heard it, it sounded like a farewell.


    For some reason, Dexter was almost out of breath, his breathing bing slow.


    He knew that, at that point, it was time to say goodbye. Otherwise, Josie would not have acted that


    way.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave, alright? If it were the Liana of the past, she wouldn¡¯t have had the heart to leave me.¡± His


    voice was hoarse. It was as if he had exhausted all his strength to speak.


    Josie lowered her eyes, trying to ignore the bitterness that welled up from the depths of her heart.


    Her tone was light and breezy when she said, ¡°Indeed, the old Liana was reluctant to let go, but you¡¯ve


    forgotten that I¡¯ve spent most of my life as Josie. She has already overshadowed the traces of Liana.


    And as Josie, I have reached the day where I am ready to let go.¡±


    Dexter closed his eyes. She is Liana, but even more so, she is Josie.


    She took hisrge hand, casually ying with it as if it were their most intimate moment.


    Josie¡¯s voice was soft when she said, ¡°In truth, these things were always yours. I¡¯ve merely returned


    them to you, including the favor you did for me at our wedding. Now, I¡¯ve repaid you. We owe each


    other nothing.¡±


    Those words were the harshest words she could have said to him.


    Dexter was trembling, unable to hold back. He swiftly grabbed her fingers, repeating, ¡°Don¡¯t go. Without


    you, I am not aplete Dexter. As Liana, you¡¯ve left me once, and as Josie, you cannot leave me


    again.¡±


    He had been saved twice in his lifetime.


    Once, on a rainy day during their childhood, she jumped down from the car, clutching her doll, and


    stood before him, reaching out her hand towards him.


    Another time, on a bright sunny day when they were older, he proposed to her in a cafe, a bold request.


    She was taken aback for a moment, then smiled and agreed.


    That smile was etched into Dexter¡¯s life just like that.


    Josie¡¯s eyes were tinged with a hint of red as she gently let go of his hand. ¡°Take good care of


    yourself.¡±


    With that, she strode out of the conference room, not pausing or looking back.


    She couldn¡¯t see, but the man standing in ce seemed as if his world had crumbled. He swayed,


    needing to lean on the table for support. Unable to control his trembling, his tears fell heavily onto the


    table.


    Evidently, when the world seemed like it was crumbling, even the toughest men would cry.

 Chapter 1029

    Chapter 1029


    Before leaving, Josie went to the studio to hand over her duties. It had been a while since herst visit.


    Alice had been managing most of the work there and had even hired new staff members.


    The unfamiliar faces of the new staff members showed confusion as they asked, ¡°Who are you looking


    for?¡±


    Josie smiled and looked around. Just then, she spotted Alice, who eximed in surprise, ¡°Josie! What


    brings you here?¡±


    ¡°I came to see everyone since I had nothing to do.¡±


    Alice quickly grabbed her hand and introduced her to everyone. ¡°This is Ms. Warren, one of the


    partners of the studio and your real boss.¡±


    Several people greeted Josie at once.


    Feeling a bit embarrassed, Josie said, ¡°Don¡¯t call me that. I won¡¯t be for long.¡±


    Alice¡¯s expression changed.


    They went inside the office, and Josie continued, ¡°I¡¯ve heard about everything, but it¡¯s not enough for


    me to leave. The sess of the studio is thanks to your constant supervision.¡±


    Upon hearing Josie¡¯s reason for showing up, Alice eagerly tried to persuade her to stay. Their


    friendship, which had started when they first began working together, had endured until now. It was not


    easily achieved.


    Josie shook her head. ¡°On the surface, this studio may seem like an investment by Laura and me, but


    in reality, you¡¯ve contributed more than both of us. This is your hard work. After I leave, all the funds


    and resources under my name will be transferred to you. I hope you can continue to carry on.¡±


    Alice was taken aback by Josie¡¯s sincere words. She didn¡¯t understand. ¡°I don¡¯t need any of this.¡±


    ¡°I know, but you deserve it.¡±


    After a moment, Alice said slowly, ¡°Since everything has be clear and things are starting to get


    better, why do you have to leave? Hasn¡¯t the Olsen family epted you?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The topic was sensitive, and Alice hesitated to ask. She carefully observed Josie¡¯s expression.


    Haven¡¯t they epted me? Not exactly. Josie¡¯s smile held a hint of bitterness. She still vividly


    remembered the guilt and regret in Mark¡¯s eyes when he took a knife for her.


    Perhaps she didn¡¯t know how to face it either.


    Unable to find an answer, Alice didn¡¯t press further. ¡°Have you spoken to Laura?¡± she asked. ¡°She has


    been financially supporting the studio all this time.¡±


    Josie was reminded of that afternoon when Laura drove to Mason Garden to discuss the idea of


    opening a studio with her. Laura had said that dreams were essential for everyone.


    Back then, it all seemed so pure.


    ¡°I¡¯ll talk to her,¡± Josie said, taking a deep breath. ¡°Has she been to the studio recently?¡±


    ¡°No. It¡¯s been a while since Ist saw her.¡±


    By the time the paperwork waspleted, it was already dusk. The winter dusk, with the cold wind


    howling and the setting sun hanging on the horizon, offered no warmth.


    Angel rushed out and stopped the elevator. ¡°Ms. Jo!¡±


    Josie quickly opened the elevator. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I heard you were leaving, so I came to see you off.¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    As the elevator descended from the twenty-eighth floor, Angel cautiously said, ¡°Ms. Jo, I¡¯ve already


    broken up with Ryan. I feel very sorry, whether it¡¯s towards Jade or towards you.¡±


    Confused, Josie turned her head. ¡°Why are you apologizing to me?¡±


    After much hesitation, Angel finally said, ¡°At that time, I was captivated by Ryan¡¯s charm and fell in love


    with him uncontrobly. During that period, he asked me a lot about the internal affairs of our studio,


    including the seaside hotel project. It was because of this information leak that Morgan was able to take


    advantage of the situation.¡±


    As she said that, Josie had a sudden realization.


    So Morgan had been targeting those close to her, which exined why he was always so considerate.

 Chapter 1030

    Chapter 1030


    Angel couldn¡¯t bring herself to meet Josie¡¯s eyes as she added, ¡°Furthermore, I always sensed


    something off about Ryan¡¯s behavior. There¡¯s a high chance that he has malicious intentions. And by


    ¡®you¡¯, I mean you.¡±


    Ryan¡¯s boss was actually Morgan, the one who seemed strange.


    Josie had noticed all of this. How could someone who fought their way back from abroad to Rivodia


    and took control of the family be as simple as they appeared on the surface?


    The elevator reached the first floor and its doors slowly opened. Seeing Josie remain silent, Angel grew


    worried. ¡°Ms. Jo¡­¡±


    Regaining herposure, Josie took a deep breath. ¡°I understand now. Thank you for telling me.¡±


    Angel followed her out of the elevator, saying as they walked, ¡°Ms. Jo, I¡¯ve heard about what¡¯s been


    happening recently. I just want you to be okay, to not be deceived by others anymore, and to live a


    good life.¡±


    These sincere words touched Josie¡¯s heart, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. Only when she turned


    around did she realize that there were hardly any people by her side who hadn¡¯t deceived her. The


    world is full of deception and exploitation, a realm of fame and gain that ispletely corrupt.


    The next day, she arranged to meet with Laura.


    In the elegant cafe, Laura had reserved a spot early on, but she arrived fashionablyte.


    As Josie sipped her second cup of coffee, Laura finally pushed the door open and entered. ¡°Hey,


    Josie.¡±


    Josie looked up and was startled to see Zach waiting outside, impatiently lighting a cigarette.


    She averted her gaze and calmly stated, ¡°It seems your marriage has significantly improved.¡±


    Laura looked somewhat embarrassed as she sat down. ¡°The Olsen family has been very busytely,


    and I haven¡¯t had much time. I could only ask him to drop me off. I wouldn¡¯t have done it if I had any


    other choice,¡± she said.


    Josie caught onto the keywords. ¡°Very busy?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you can probably imagine howplicated things have be after Russell Group and the


    Olsen family¡¯s downfall. Mark is still in the hospital.¡±


    As Laura spoke thetter half of the sentence, she cautiously nced at Josie. ¡°During this time, you


    haven¡¯t visited the two elders even once. Could it be that¡ª¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Josie knew what Laura wanted to ask. ¡°In everything I¡¯ve done, I never intended to live as Liana.¡±


    ¡°In that case, why did you do it?¡±


    ¡°I wanted justice.¡±


    In fact, Laura had no idea that Josie had known her true identity all along. She assumed that this


    woman was simply stubborn and foolish.


    With a hint of embarrassment, Laura tugged at her lips. ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about that. I heard about what


    you did yesterday. You really saved Dexter. That was impressive.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t care about that. Instead, she continued to inquire about the situation of the Olsen family.


    Laura paused again before saying, ¡°Just like Russell Group, gued by internal conflicts and external


    threats, my abilities are limited. I can only do my best to prevent them. Are you asking because you


    want to return? If so, you should talk to udia. She would agree.¡±


    She spoke quickly, eager to gauge Josie¡¯s attitude as if she was worried about being suspected of


    something.


    Josie shook her head and looked into Laura¡¯s eyes. ¡°I have no intention of returning to the Olsen family.


    We¡¯ve been friends for two years, so you should know my character. Everything I¡¯ve done is not out of


    a desire topete for anything. I just want to ask you to please manage the Olsen family in ce of


    Mark. You have the ability, and I trust youpletely.¡±


    Those words left Laura momentarily stunned. She hadn¡¯t expected Josie to say something like that, nor


    had she thought that Josie truly didn¡¯t care about anything rted to the Olsen family.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Laura was somewhat surprised. ¡°Do you know how much the Olsen family¡¯s assets are worth?¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Summer was desperate to have it. Are you sure you don¡¯t want it?¡±


    Josie shook her head in response.

 Chapter 1031

    Chapter 1031


    Laura was taken aback by her determination, momentarily speechless. Josie was the first to break the


    silence, asking with a smile, ¡°Are you content with your current situation?¡±


    Laura nced unconsciously at Zach, who was smoking outside. ¡°Well, at the very least, it¡¯s fulfilling.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good. I hope the Olsen family can provide you with a sense of fulfillment instead of self-denial.¡±


    Josie propped her head up. ¡°I¡¯m happy for you, as it seems you¡¯re no longer held back by Zach.¡±


    Laura didn¡¯t argue, as it was the truth.


    ¡°Back then, I was deeply grateful to you for saving me.¡±


    When Josie heard that, mixed emotions stirred within her, and for a moment, she was unsure how to


    reveal the truth to Laura.


    Since Zach wasn¡¯t Mark¡¯s biological child, it was foreseeable that most of the family¡¯s future assets


    wouldn¡¯t be handed over to Laura.


    ¡°If you¡¯re enjoying your life now, Laura, continue on that path. Don¡¯t be too consumed by winning.


    Live in the present and don¡¯t push yourself too hard.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Laura didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Why are you suddenly saying all this?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to exin, so she simply said, ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°Leaving Wavery.¡±


    ¡°Moving to another city?¡± Laura¡¯s eyes widened in surprise.


    ¡°Most likely going abroad, but the final destination hasn¡¯t been decided yet.¡±


    Laura felt puzzled but finally understood why Josie had sought her out. ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Laura,¡± Josie interrupted, taking an envelope out of her bag and handing it over. ¡°After I leave, please


    take care of Mark and udia. I¡¯m not a good daughter in the traditional sense, unable to let go of the


    past. Please give this letter to udia for me.¡±


    Laura nced down at the cowhide envelope on the table. ¡°Me?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You¡¯re the only one I trust.¡±


    Laura was caught off guard, a pang of sorrow hitting her. ¡°How long will you be gone?¡±


    ¡°It could be a year or maybe two years. Or I might never return.¡±


    If Josie couldn¡¯t find Paul, she was willing to sacrifice her own life to repay Justin.


    Never?


    Laura stood still, holding the envelope in her hand, captivated by the word ¡°never.¡± In that moment, she


    had forgotten that Josie was her friend.


    Seeing Laura frozen in ce, Josie stood up. She bowed slightly, a gesture ofplete trust. ¡°Thank


    you.¡± Then, she walked out of the cafe.


    Witnessing this, Zach raised an eyebrow in disbelief. He had initially wanted to start an argument, but


    seeing Josie¡¯s fearless and unbeatable aura, he hesitated for a moment.


    Just as Josie reached the road, a ck Bentley slowly came to a stop in front of her. The car window


    rolled down, revealing Morgan¡¯s expressionless face. It was rare for him to look so serious. He nced


    at her sideways. ¡°Get in the car.¡±


    From the corner of his eye, he saw Laura walking out of the cafe. She happened to witness the scene,


    causing her steps to falter, and she instinctively put the envelope she was holding into her bag.


    Morgan gave her a deep, lingering look.


    Josie let out an almost inaudible sigh but ultimately got into the car. Ryan drove at a breakneck speed.


    ¡°Do you need something?¡±


    ¡°Josie, don¡¯t assume that I will always indulge you and allow you to act recklessly.¡± Morgan¡¯s


    expression was stern, his tone equally cold.


    She looked at him intently. ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°What is this?¡± Morgan threw a ne ticket at her. ¡°You¡¯re leaving the country?¡±


    Josie nodded, seeing nothing wrong with it. ¡°Is there a problem with that?¡±


    ¡°I remember your original n was to settle down in Rivodia! Why are you going abroad?¡± Morgan¡¯s


    eyes practically zed with anger.


    Josie paused for a moment, then slowly said, ¡°You seem to know my schedule quite well.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s anger subsided, reced instead by irritation.


    ¡°I¡¯m just worried about you.¡±

 Chapter 1032

    Chapter 1032


    Josie¡¯s reaction was minimal. She calmly picked up the flight ticket and said, ¡°I must go.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡± Morgan couldn¡¯t help but roar in a hushed voice. His fists clenched and rxed. ¡°Is it too much


    for you to stay by my side? Do you know how many women long to share my bed and be Mrs.


    Bastille?¡±


    Even he was somewhat surprised by his own words once they were spoken. He wanted to take them


    back, but it was toote. However, Josie was not angry.


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    Words escaped Morgan.


    ¡°Back then, I didn¡¯t sleep with you, and I won¡¯t in the future either.¡± Josie put the flight ticket into her


    bag. ¡°Thank you for all your help. Without you, my n wouldn¡¯t have gone so smoothly.¡±


    She was so polite and courteous that helplessness overwhelmed Morgan. Since her n had ended, it


    was as if she had lost her soul. She was like a living corpse, devoid of any emotions towards anyone.


    ¡°Jo¡­ That¡¯s not what I meant. I just want you to stay. Why can¡¯t you understand that? Regardless of


    whether it¡¯s Justin or Paul, I can find a way to locate them for you.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to rely on anyone anymore.¡±


    Her eyes were clear and transparent, devoid of anything else. Seeing that, Morgan was momentarily


    taken aback.


    ¡°Please drop me off up ahead.¡±


    For a moment, Ryan didn¡¯t know whose orders to follow, as Morgan looked up andmanded, ¡°Don¡¯t


    stop.¡±


    ¡°Morgan,¡± Josie started. ¡°If you don¡¯t stop, I¡¯ll jump out of the car.¡±


    That left Morgan speechless.


    Josie continued, ¡°If you dare to imprison me, I have a thousand ways to end my own life. You¡¯re


    wee to try.¡±


    Her determination to leave stabbed Morgan unexpectedly, leaving him almost unable to breathe. ¡°Does


    it really have to be this way?¡±


    As the vehicle moved along, the scenery outside the window swiftly passed by. Josie locked eyes with


    him. ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t need me as much as you think.¡±


    After exiting the overpass, the car abruptly stopped by the roadside. Josie stepped out of the vehicle


    without looking back.


    Morgan watched her gradually receding figure through the rearview mirror. She was so slender and


    fragile that it was as if a gust of wind could break her.


    When she blended in with the crowd, she was nothing more than an ordinary woman. Yet, the


    impression she had left on him over the years was particrly unique.


    Unable to contain himself, Ryan asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you keep her here?¡±


    Morgan¡¯s head throbbed faintly. ¡°I can¡¯t hold on to her anymore.¡±


    The next day, Josie went to the airport.


    Wavery was the state capital of that state, and the airport was always crowded, with people arriving


    and departing.


    Everyone was in a hurry, each person with their own story.


    Josie stood before the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing at nes taking off andnding in the foggy air.


    There was still an hour left before boarding. Holding her boarding pass, she asionally nced back,


    seemingly anticipating something or someone.


    Suddenly, a voice rang out from behind her. ¡°Josie.¡±


    Her brows furrowed, and she turned around with a hint of surprise, only to be met with an unfamiliar


    face. It was a middle-aged man, well-dressed in business attire. He was walking towards her.


    ¡°You are?¡±


    ¡°You might not remember me, but I¡¯m Nathan Olsen. ording to the familial hierarchy, you should


    address me as your uncle.¡±


    Nathan Olsen¡­ Mark¡¯s younger brother? Then, I should indeed address him as my uncle.


    ¡°Um¡­¡±


    ¡°You really don¡¯t remember me, do you? When you were young, I used to carry you and often take you


    out to y. Do you remember?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Josie went silent and strained her memory. It seemed there was such a person, but the memory had


    be very faint.


    ¡°Do you need something from me?¡± As she posed that question, she nced behind him but saw no


    one else.

 Chapter 1033

    Chapter 1033


    ¡°I heard you were leaving, so I came specifically to see you off,¡± Nathan sighed, gazing at her with


    affection. ¡°You look so thin. You¡¯ve truly suffered these past years.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°How did you find out I was leaving?¡±


    ¡°I heard it from someone.¡±


    Nathan smiled faintly. Though his expression was unreadable, Josie understood most of his implicit


    meaning.


    I believe in Laura, so he must have heard it from udia. They¡¯ve seen the letter.


    Seeing the fleeting loneliness in Josie¡¯s eyes, Nathan added, ¡°Mark and udia aren¡¯t feeling well, so


    they asked me to see you off. Don¡¯t overthink it. Deep down, they care about you.¡±


    They care about me? Yet, even now, they dare not meet me.


    Josie¡¯s thin lips curved into a slight smirk. She couldn¡¯t quite articte her feelings. Even if they met,


    she didn¡¯t know what to say.


    But she had never imagined she wouldn¡¯t even get to see them, and they really didn¡¯te to the


    airport.


    ¡°Here is ten million. udia asked me to give it to you. When you¡¯re away, you must take good care of


    yourself,¡± Nathan rummaged for a card from his bag and handed it to her sincerely.


    Josie was taken aback for a moment. Then, she let out a bitterugh. I don¡¯t even want the Olsen


    family¡¯s assets. Would I want this ten million?


    ¡°Ten million?¡±


    ¡°Is it not enough?¡± Nathan asked subconsciously. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I can¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s enough,¡± Josie interrupted, somewhat dazed as she took the card.


    ¡°I¡¯m d. In truth, they¡¯re only looking out for your best interests. Don¡¯t take it to heart. Once you


    ept what they gave you, they¡¯ll rest easier.¡±


    A sharp glint shed across Nathan¡¯s eyes beneath his gold-rimmed sses.


    ¡°How considerate of them.¡± Josie nodded. Then, she raised her hand and snapped the card in half


    before handing it back to Nathan. ¡°Thank them for me.¡±


    Nathan stood frozen in shock. ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    The flight announcement echoed through the departure lounge in the airport, reminding passengers of


    the departure time.


    ¡°If you have the chance, tell them on my behalf to forget I ever existed in this world.¡±


    After Josie finished speaking, she headed straight toward the boarding bridge. She was all alone,


    carrying nothing with her.


    The airne took off into the night, circling over Wavery a few times. Through the window, the bustling


    night scene outside could be seen. It was the city where she had lived for over a decade. Once she left,


    there would be no turning back.


    The skyscraper in the city center owned by Russell Group was particrly conspicuous. At night, it


    shone with the brightest lights before gradually diminishing to a mere dot in her line of sight before


    disappearingpletely.


    Perhaps it was because of her bad mood, but a sudden wave of nausea assailed Josie. She had to


    endure it for a while before she managed to keep from vomiting.


    She closed the window shades, and her vision was instantly engulfed in darkness.


    Meanwhile, at Russell Group, Dexter sat before the floor-to-ceiling window, his broad silhouette


    emanating profound loneliness.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    A boundless solitude enveloped him, leaving vast expanses of destion within him.


    Larry pushed the door open, somewhat hesitant to speak. ¡°Mr. Russell, the ne has taken off.¡±


    Dexter slowly closed his eyes.


    In the end, she still left. From today on, no one else in this world would understand my loneliness at the


    top of thedder, and no one would be willing to give up everything to embrace my solitude.


    Suddenly, there was a tremor at his wrist, followed by the sound of beads ttering onto the ground.


    ¡°Oh, no!¡± Larry eximed.


    The rosary beads suddenly snapped.


    It was given to Dexter by Josie to keep him safe, but it unexpectedly snapped on the night she left.


    After several seconds, Dexter suddenly leaned over and picked up the beads as though possessed.


    Kneeling on the ground, he clutched them as though clutching onto his own life.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go¡­¡±

 Chapter 1034

    Chapter 1034


    The winter sunset zed, casting an intense chill in the air.


    A woman stood beneath the abandoned residential area. After a long while, she finally pushed open


    the door and entered. The sound startled the person inside, who looked over in disbelief. ¡°Josie!¡±


    However, the person she saw was not Josie, but Summer.


    Summer arrived alone. She stood before Rachel, who was tightly bound, a cold and mocking smile


    ying on her lips.


    ¡°How did you find me?¡± Rachel asked, fear evident in her eyes.


    ¡°I had someone tail Dexter¡¯s men for a whole week before finally discovering your location. It was quite


    troublesome,¡± Summer replied indifferently. She had put in great effort to figure out the bodyguards¡¯


    shift patterns. Only when they had all left to eat could she take advantage of the situation.


    ¡°Why are you here? To take your anger out on me? Where is Josie?¡± Rachel had waited for Josie for


    several days, but she had given up hope by then.


    ¡°You truly are a fool, unable to escape your poverty-stricken mindset,¡± Summer said, leisurely


    approaching Rachel. ¡°You nearly got her killed, yet you still hope she will save you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible¡­ She muste and find me if she wants to know anything about Paul,¡± Rachel


    shook her head, unwilling to believe it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t delude yourself. She has already left.¡±


    ¡°Where did she go?¡±


    ¡°Who knows? All I know is that she¡¯s no longer in Wavery.¡± Summer suddenly pulled out a knife from


    her pocket and pressed it against Rachel¡¯s throat. ¡°You know what? Last night, Dexter was speeding on


    Second Highway and got into an ident. He¡¯s still in critical condition.¡±


    Rachel¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°You¡¯re here to eliminate me?¡±


    ¡°This is a golden opportunity, so naturally, I came to silence you!¡± Summer pressed the knife harder.


    ¡°Keep opposing me. I¡¯d like to see if you still have a chance to reveal the truth!¡±


    Overwhelmed by fear, Rachel broke out in a cold sweat. ¡°You can¡¯t do this! Summer, I¡¯ve done so much


    for you! You can¡¯t kill me!¡±


    ¡°You ruined Josie. Do you really think the Olsen family won¡¯t seek revenge? If you betray me at that


    time, it¡¯ll be toote for me to kill you!¡±


    With a forceful thrust, Summer drove the tip of the knife an inch into Rachel¡¯s neck.


    ¡°No!¡± Rachel roared. ¡°Summer, I know where Edward is! You can¡¯t kill me!¡±


    Summer abruptly stopped. ¡°What did you just say?¡±


    ¡°I said¡­ I said I know where Edward is!¡± Rachel swallowed hard. ¡°Even if you kill me, what good would


    it do? The Olsen family will never be yours. Even if Josie is gone, do you think Mark would hand the


    family¡¯s assets to you? In the end, everything will still be in Laura¡¯s hands. What could you possibly


    gain?¡±


    She spoke rapidly, fearing that Summer would continue exerting force.


    Upon hearing that, Summer narrowed her eyes. ¡°Why should I believe you?¡±


    ¡°I learned about it from Dexter when I was with him. It¡¯s absolutely true!¡± Rachel looked at her. ¡°Arnold


    would never abandon his father. As long as you find Edward, you can undoubtedly find him too. At that


    time, the two of you can still coborate. There¡¯s definitely a chance to turn things around!¡±


    Perhaps it was the fear of death that made her mind exceptionally clear.


    Summer was skeptical. ¡°If you dare lie to me¡­¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not lying! I swear! As long as you save me, I will tell you the lead. I still have value, don¡¯t I?


    Otherwise, you¡¯ll truly be at a dead end. You need me, Summer! Instead of waiting for death, why not


    trust me just this once?¡± Rachel gently persuaded.N?velDrama.Org content rights.

 Chapter 1035

    Chapter 1035


    Two years had passed.


    Outside thergest venue in Switzend, a crowd of people gathered. Two gs, each representing a


    different team, fluttered in the wind. One was ck, the other red.


    That day marked the finale of the most popr mobile game in Clusia, held overseas to generate


    excitement.


    Inside one of the women¡¯s restrooms in the venue, Helena sat on the toilet lid, cradling her phone as


    she started her first game of the day.


    Originally, she had nned to explore the surroundings before entering. However, her bodily needs


    couldn¡¯t be ignored. After taking care of her necessities, she nced at the time. It was exactly six


    o¡¯clock, and the game had begun.


    She felt an itch in her hand.


    However, things didn¡¯t go smoothly. They started arguing not long after they began ying. She found


    herself fiercely scolding others.


    At that moment, the women¡¯s restroom was quiet and serene, with only her voice echoing.


    When Helena pushed open the bathroom door, she still hadn¡¯t relieved her frustration.


    However, as she lifted her head, she saw a little girl standing outside the restroom. The girl, probably


    around one or two years old and just learning to walk, was holding a pile of misceneous items and


    looking at Helena in surprise.


    In a childish tone, she said, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to eavesdrop¡­¡±


    Her eyes were like grapes, clear and transparent. Although she stuttered when she spoke, her ability to


    express herself was excellent.


    It was a shame to subject such a young child to foulnguage.


    Helena paused for a moment, quickly crouching down. ¡°Why are you alone? Where¡¯s your mother?¡±


    ¡°Mommy went outside, and I¡¯m waiting for her here,¡± she said, showing no signs of fear at all.


    She was speaking in Clusian, which caused Helena to raise an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s your name? Are you


    Clusian?¡±


    ¡°My name is Grape!¡± The little girl joyfully revealed her real name. ¡°Mom says I¡¯m Clusian! But I¡¯ve


    never been there!¡±


    It was quite fitting. Helena couldn¡¯t help but pinch the girl¡¯s cheek. ¡°Shall I keep youpany until your


    momes back? Is that okay?¡±


    Grape waved her hand dismissively. ¡°I can manage on my own. There¡¯s no one here who dares to


    kidnap me! You can rest assured!¡±


    Before Helena could recover from her shock, her phone rang. It was a message from Mallory, marked


    as a note: Where are you? Have you entered the venue?


    Just then, the sound of a search came from outside, with voices calling out for Grape. Only then did


    Helena feel relieved. Waving at Grape, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving now. Be good.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye!¡± the little girl said, struggling to pull out an LED sign from her embrace that wasrger than


    her hand. She handed it to Helena. ¡°A gift for you!¡±


    It was indeed an LED sign. Helena gave a dumbfounded smile. It seemed that the child¡¯s mother was a


    fan who had specificallye to follow thepetition.


    After expressing her gratitude, Helena left, not noticing a slender woman who appeared and scooped


    up the little girl. ¡°Who allowed you to run around like this, Grape? Don¡¯t scare your mother!¡±


    ¡°Hehe, you¡¯re faint-hearted, Mommy!¡± said the girl.


    Helena entered the venue and took her seat.


    Thepetition had not yet begun, and an opening performance was taking ce on stage.


    Mallory had given her some instructions to follow. As she was reading them, she suddenly heard


    someone beside her say, ¡°Excuse me, could you please make some room?¡±


    The gentle voice snapped Helena back to reality. She looked up, only to find herself face to face with a


    familiar figure. It was the little girl she had unexpectedly encountered in the restroom, still cradling a


    milk bottle in her arms.


    At that moment, she was being held by a young woman dressed in a white dress. The woman was


    wearing a mask, making it difficult to discern her features, but it was evident that she was beautiful.


    She turned to Helena with a gentle smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Please excuse us.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Helena quickly snapped back to reality. The child recognized her. ¡°It¡¯s the youngdy who was


    swearing in the restroom!¡±


    Helena smiled with noticeable awkwardness.


    The woman in the white dress looked somewhat surprised. ¡°You met her before?¡±

 Chapter 1036

    Chapter 1036


    ¡°Yeah! Mommy, I heard her using swear words!¡±


    The young woman nodded. ¡°She didn¡¯t intentionally eavesdrop.¡±


    Helena shook her head, feeling it inappropriate to argue with a child.


    The woman, holding Grape, settled into her seat and asked, ¡°Are you a fan of Michael?¡±


    Helena quickly replied, ¡°Well¡­ I flew here for four hours just to watch his match. Since he rarely


    livestreams due to his temperament, there aren¡¯t many opportunities to see him. I wanted to see him


    y in person.¡±


    The woman understood, an image forming in her mind.


    ¡°Another one of Michael¡¯s fan base. Who knows if she even reached Diamond rank? This is esports,


    not some star-chasing game.¡± A casual male voice floated from the front seat as two men leaned in


    together, whispering amongst themselves.


    Helena wanted to curse, but seeing the presence of a child, she held herself back.


    Thepetition was about to begin.


    The two teams took the stage, standing on either side of the gleaming golden trophy. Thementator


    began to introduce the yers, recounting the honors they had each previously won.


    The camera focused on a teenager¡¯s face. The fans¡¯ cheers were so loud they could have brought the


    arena down.


    ¡°He¡¯s even more handsome in person than on camera! Wow!¡±


    The child in the woman¡¯s arms suddenly eximed, ¡°It¡¯s Mikey!¡±


    The woman acknowledged with a response.


    Thepetition had officially begun.


    The two teams had yed their first two rounds.


    The woman holding the child spoke softly. ¡°ST is about tounch an assassin mage.¡±


    Before Helena could react, ST had indeed locked onto the assassin mage.


    ¡°They¡¯re nning to ban the jungling next. If they don¡¯t, ST will seize the opportunity,¡± said the woman.


    Helena understood the game, but she never expected that a child¡¯s mother would too. She was taken


    aback. ¡°You also y this game?¡±


    Grape was the first to respond. ¡°My mommy is quite the expert!¡±


    The woman casually covered the girl¡¯s mouth, half-smiling. ¡°I¡¯ve done some research. If this situation,


    which was sure to win in the mid-tote stages, is managed well, they¡¯ll bepletely outyed.


    However, they have too many tanks. Everyone has the ability to teleport. What could the tank do to


    keep them around?¡±


    The plot truly unfolded as the woman had predicted. The lineup was too cumbersome. They won the


    first round.


    Helena was somewhat in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re really impressive.¡±


    ¡°Not at all,¡± said the young woman.


    The announcement ¡°Let¡¯s congratte ST¡± echoed throughout the venue.


    The two boys in front had already repeatedly turned around, hesitatingly asking the woman, ¡°Lady, you


    must have at least two thousand points in the game, right?¡±


    The young woman raised an eyebrow. ¡°Isn¡¯t it just a matter of using your brain? Surely you two can¡¯t be


    that clueless.¡±


    The two individuals took a moment toprehend, wondering why she had resorted to vulgarity. ¡°How


    could you insult someone like that?¡±


    The woman kicked their seats nonchntly. ¡°If you can call someone a b*tch so easily, what¡¯s wrong


    with me cursing you? Am I wrong to call you two mutts?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


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    Helena was utterly dumbfounded. She had never imagined that the woman could outdo her in hurling


    insults and right in front of a child¡­


    It was halftime, and many people were looking in that direction. The conversation between the two men


    had been overheard by those around them. In their eyes, the woman holding the child exuded an air of


    confidence and mboyance, appearing both cool and beautiful.


    This time, it was the two of them who turned red in the face.


    Helena cast her a benevolent nce, whispering, ¡°Thank you for speaking up for me.¡±


    The young woman smiled.


    Following that, the woman fell silent. The little girl in her arms had fallen asleep, and she watched her


    sleeping form intently, her eyes filled with tender love.


    She sat amidst the excited, bustling crowd, her gaze lowered, exuding an aloofness that made her


    seem like an outsider.


    Curiously, Helena asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to analyze it anymore? I¡¯m feeling quite anxious.¡±


    Only then did she nce at the stage. ¡°Just believe in the person you love.¡±

 Chapter 1037

    Chapter 1037


    This team secured the runner-up position in the Spring Championship and emerged as champions in


    the Fall Championship that year. Given their peak form, they were expected to win.


    As expected, in the following two rounds, ST didn¡¯t give HQ a chance to catch their breath. With a four-


    to-zero victory, they clinically secured the championship. Thementator passionately eximed,


    ¡°Congrattions ST! Their double victory this year is well-deserved!¡±


    The arena instantly erupted in cheers, and the champion¡¯s theme song sted in the background.


    A group of young boys raised the trophy together as a shower of golden confetti rained down, gently


    falling upon their heads and shoulders.


    Subconsciously, Helena curved her lips into a smile. When she looked to the side, she noticed that the


    woman who had been holding the child had already left.


    As she stepped out of the venue, Helena happened to see the same woman walking in the light. She


    was holding the child¡¯s hand, her silhouette radiating a cheerful aura as she headed to the backstage


    area reserved for the contestants.


    Meanwhile, in the only barbecue restaurant in Sumanthova, a woman pushed the door open. The chill


    she allowed in from outside caused everyone inside to shiver. ¡°Oh, we¡¯ve been waiting for you. You¡¯re


    wearing too little.¡±


    She chuckled in response. ¡°Congrattions on winning the double championships.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, thank you. Ms. Jo, pleasee in. Oh, who do we have here? Grape, do you remember


    me?¡±


    Grape darted into the private room, calling out, ¡°I do!¡±


    The entire barbecue restaurant was reserved by ST, filling both its floors. The warmth emanating from


    the barbecue stoves quickly dispelled the chill, filling the bustling ce with joy.


    The team members gathered in the spacious private room. Their uniforms were casually hung aside,


    and the table was in a state of disarray. They were all boys around seventeen or eighteen years old,


    passionately discussing the details of the game.


    Startled by Grape¡¯s voice, everyone fell silent for a moment, then burst intoughter. ¡°Grape is here!¡±


    Grape, still clutching a milk bottle in her hands, ambled forward and threw herself into the arms of one


    of the boys, sweetly eximing, ¡°I¡¯ve missed you!¡±


    Everyone teased her, including the boy sitting by the window, who was watching with a smile. He


    looked outside and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Mom?¡±


    Just then, a woman pushed the door open. Her skin was fair, and her appearance youthful. Standing


    before them, she didn¡¯t seem old at all. She leaned against the wall, smiling as she said, ¡°I never


    thought you¡¯d finally master support gamey.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Jo,¡± everyone shouted in unison.


    Standing there was Josie, her featuresrgely unchanged. Yet the added warmth she exuded made


    her appear calmer than before.


    With his phone in one hand, Michael rolled up his sleeve, revealing his slender and fair wrist. ¡°Ms. Jo,


    come sit over here quickly,¡± he said.


    Some engaged in lively conversations, while others yed with the little girl, creating a bustling


    atmosphere.


    Josie sat beside Michael. ¡°Right after the match ended, I received quite a few insider tips. Apparently,


    numerous teams are trying to recruit you. So, do you have any ns for the transfer window?¡±


    yers who excelled in jungling andmanding were highly sought after, especially a star yer like


    Michael. His transfer fee had skyrocketed to an astronomical price.


    Michael rubbed his neck. ¡°I don¡¯t n on leaving. I decided to stay at ST.¡±


    ¡°How much did L offer you to make you so utterly devoted?¡±


    ¡°I just find it troublesome. We¡¯re returning home for a celebratory party in three days. Would you like to


    join us?¡±


    Josie stuffed a piece of meat into her mouth. ¡°I¡¯m not going back. You guys go ahead.¡±


    Michael clicked his tongue. ¡°Only L loves you this much. He arranged for the final to be held in


    Sumanthova just so you could witness it in person.¡±


    The fans probably didn¡¯t know the real reason for choosing Sumanthova was to let Josie watch it in


    person.N?velDrama.Org content rights.

 Chapter 1038

    Chapter 1038


    Josie responded with a chuckle.


    Just then, Grape heard the keyword and eagerly jumped into Michael¡¯s arms. ¡°Mikey, where is Mr.


    L? He promised to take me to Disnend!¡±


    Michael lifted her onto hisp. ¡°There¡¯s a storm back home, so his flight has been dyed. It looks like


    we¡¯ll have to wait until tomorrow.¡±


    Upon hearing their conversation, the team leader interjected, ¡°He¡¯s more than ten hourste, and the


    competition is already over. I doubt L will show up.¡±


    Michael raised an eyebrow, chuckling as he nced at Josie, who was engrossed in her meal. ¡°That¡¯s


    not necessarily the case.¡±


    Josie¡¯s hair had grown too long, and she had forgotten to bring a hair tie. Thus, she could only loosely


    gather it with her hand, revealing a youthful side profile.


    After all, she was only twenty-five years old.


    The team leader clinked sses with her. ¡°Jo, our team¡¯s arena has already been established in


    Wavery. Can you find some time to go back and see the ce you designed yourself?¡±


    Over the past two years, e-sports had made a significant impact on the global stage, especially within


    the country where its poprity was increasing. ST, as a top team in the industry, had received


    numerous investments, including one from L.


    He was a man who loved investing in all sorts of emerging industries and was particrly passionate


    about esports. He would often say that if he couldn¡¯t be a professional yer, he might as well be their


    financial backer.


    As time went by, Josie became more involved and familiar with the team members. She even drew the


    design n for their home arena.


    Josie rejected him calmly, ¡°L has already shown me the video, and there are pictures of it online.


    You guys did a good job.¡±


    ¡°How could looking at it online be the same as reality? Come back with us for a visit. After all, you¡¯re


    the hero of the hour.¡±


    Josie shook her head with a light smile. ¡°I can¡¯t go back. There¡¯s apetition I need to attend in a


    couple of days.¡±


    The team leader let out a sigh, visibly disappointed.


    The party hade to an end, and dawn was fast approaching. At that moment, Grape was asleep in


    Josie¡¯s arms.


    The spirited boys headed out, and in a low voice, Michael asked Josie, ¡°Shall we escort you home


    first? It¡¯s not safe for you to be out here with a child.¡±


    ¡°I am more familiar with Sumanthova than all of you, so there¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, go on now. Don¡¯t worry about me.¡± Josie waved at him, then got into the car parked by the


    side.


    She ced Grape in the child seat, ensuring she was secure. Only after confirming there were no


    issues did she drive away.


    The car drove steadily through the quiet streets. All around were buildings unique to this foreignnd.


    For her, these sights had be all too familiar over the past two years.


    The scene brought her a sense of freedom andfort.


    The vehicle came to a halt outside a standalone mansion in the city center. Josie gently lifted Grape in


    her arms and softly said, ¡°We¡¯re home now, sweetheart. You can continue sleeping once we¡¯re inside,


    alright?¡±


    Grape was so tired that she couldn¡¯t open her eyes, yet she still managed to say in a babyish voice,


    ¡°Mommy, thank you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart melted. All the efforts she had put in over the past two years were indeed worthwhile.


    She had just pushed open the wooden door when a sudden shout rang out, ¡°Alice!¡±


    Josie turned around, only to be met with the sight of a man elegantly stepping out of the car. He was


    dressed casually, and every move he made exuded confidence, yet there was a slight tinge of


    weariness.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°L?¡± she eximed in surprise.


    Upon hearing this name, Grape suddenly shook off her drowsiness. She struggled free from Josie¡¯s


    embrace and jumped down before bumbling forward toward L.


    ¡°Mr. L!¡±


    ¡°Ah! Grape, did you miss me?¡± L crouched down and picked her up.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking of you every single day,¡± Grape said sweetly.


    L kissed her on the cheek, then walked over holding the child. ¡°Michael said the dinner party was


    over, so I came straight here. You don¡¯t mind, do you?¡±

 Chapter 1039

    Chapter 1039


    Josie shook her head helplessly. ¡°Wasn¡¯t the ne dyed? Why did you stille?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± L walked straight into the mansion, speaking as he did so. ¡°I


    missed Grape. Can¡¯t Ie and see her? And as for you, you¡¯re being absolutely ridiculous. How


    could you take a child to such a ce?¡±


    ¡°What should I do then, leave her at home? Wouldn¡¯t that be a disservice to your efforts in setting the


    venue of the final in Sumanthova?¡± Josie half-jokingly said, trailing behind him.


    L casually took the bag from her. ¡°What nasty things have those little rascals been saying


    again?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t tease him further. Instead, she pushed open the door to be greeted by Grape¡¯s toys


    everywhere, among which the multiplication table hanging on the wall was particrly noticeable.


    ¡°Whose backpack is this?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    ¡°Do you really think it¡¯s mine?¡± Josie asked with a mix of helplessness and pride in her tone.


    Grape proudly proimed, ¡°It¡¯s mine, Mr. L!¡±


    ¡°Can you not get carried away? She¡¯s barely over a year old and hasn¡¯t even been weaned off form


    yet, and here you are, wanting her to recite multiplication tables?¡± L was incredulous, gently


    pinching Grape¡¯s cheek.


    Leaning against the edge of the table, Josie poured a ss of water to soothe her parched throat.


    ¡°She¡¯s interested in it, so I let her carry it around and y.¡±


    In truth, she was also quite surprised by Grape¡¯s natural talent in mathematics. Grape¡¯s affinity for


    numbers always reminded her of someone.


    L hadn¡¯t visited for three months, and Grape was particrly attached to him. They yed


    together for an hour, but in the end, she was still a child and couldn¡¯t resist the urge to sleep.


    After tucking Grape in, L looked up to find Josie also dozing off on the couch. He picked up a


    nket and carefully walked over. Just as he was about to cover her with it, she suddenly opened her


    eyes.


    Josie¡¯s sleep had always been light. She sat up. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was a bit tired.¡±


    L casually sat down, letting out a snort. ¡°I thought after working together for over two years, you


    wouldn¡¯t be so distant.¡±


    Only after a while did Josie realize it. ¡°Has it been two years already?¡±


    ¡°Two years and three months,¡± L stated, emphasizing each word.


    ¡°Time flies. I still remember the first thing you said to me when I arrived in Sumanthova.¡± Josie squinted


    her eyes. ¡°You insisted that I expand Keller Group¡¯s overseas market within three years.¡±


    Admiration filled L¡¯s eyes. ¡°You aplished it in just a year and a half. And for eight months of


    that time, you were pregnant.¡±


    Josie curved her lips. Reminiscing about the chaos from that period, she couldn¡¯t help but sigh. Back


    then, every day was exhausting, but she had no choice. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to stop. If she did,


    she would be flooded with unnecessary memories, which were just too painful to bear.


    ¡°Without you, Keller Group wouldn¡¯t be where it is today.¡±


    ¡°I should be the one thanking you. During my most challenging times, you assigned me the toughest


    tasks, preventing me from falling apart.¡±


    The headquarters of Keller Group was in Rivodia. At that time, she had just arrived in Sumanthova


    when she received a call from L, ¡°Ms. Warren, you¡¯re quite the diva, aren¡¯t you? Postponing your


    start date for so many days without giving a response? Do you think that¡¯s bing of you?¡±


    Josie immediately furrowed her brows. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m already in Sumanthova, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    After L heard what she had to say, he gritted his teeth in anger. ¡°Sumanthova? Do you still want


    to join ourpany?¡±


    ¡°Of course, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled. You¡¯ll be in charge of all thepany¡¯s overseas affairs.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    Even though Josie was now the design director at Keller Group, reflecting upon her initial stages


    reminded her of how L treated her as cheapbor back then.


    Josie rose to her feet. ¡°I¡¯m tired. I¡¯m going to take a nap.¡±


    ¡°Hey¡­¡±


    ¡°If I continue this conversation with you, I¡¯m afraid I might start sympathizing with capitalists, so let¡¯s


    forget about it.¡± Josie chuckled, exuding an air of confidence and nonchnce.


    L chuckled and shook his head, giving her an affectionate look.

 Chapter 1040

    Chapter 1040


    When Josie woke up, it was already the afternoon. Grape wasn¡¯t in the room, and faint sounds of


    laughter and yfulmotion could be heard from downstairs.


    It had been a while since the house had been this lively.


    After Josie freshened up, she stepped out to see L wearing an apron, cooking in the kitchen as if


    it were his routine. Meanwhile, Grape was seated in her high chair, eating her meal and asking all sorts


    of peculiar questions.


    ¡°Mr. L, why don¡¯t you evere to visit me? Is it really more fun back home? More fun than


    Sumanthova?¡±


    Grape pouted with a puzzled look on her face.


    L responded in a childlike tone, ¡°I was just busy with work, so don¡¯t be upset, Grape. It¡¯s only fun


    when you are around. Without you, it¡¯s quite boring.¡±


    ¡°Really? What about mom? Do you like mom?¡±


    Lughed. ¡°Of course I like her.¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you be my father, so I can see you every day?¡±


    The more they discussed, the more absurd it sounded. Josie realized that the absence of a father


    figure from a young age made Grape desperate forpanionship.


    She descended the stairs. ¡°Children speak without reservations, so don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    L was about to say something when Grape angrily interrupted, ¡°That¡¯s not true. I want Mr.


    L to be my dad!¡±


    Josie¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Stop throwing a tantrum.¡±


    She was usually busy, and coupled with the responsibility of caring for a child, she often didn¡¯t have


    much patience. She generally gave Grape a lot of freedom, and fortunately, thetter was reasonably


    sensible.


    ¡°Why are you angry at a child?¡± L intervened, cing the pasta he had prepared in front of Josie.


    Then, he squatted down in front of Grape and patiently exined, ¡°Grape, you have your own father, a


    role that no one else can rece, not even me. However, Uncle can love and care for you just like a


    father would.¡±


    L¡¯s tone was particrly gentle.


    He was already thirty years old that year, possessing the charm of a mature man. He was kind, patient,


    and in fact, quite suited to be a father.


    Josie leaned to one side, lost in thought.


    Grape rxed her pouted lips, saying indignantly, ¡°Where is my father then? He doesn¡¯t love me at all.¡±


    For a moment, L was at a loss for words. He nced at Josie, who responded by shaking her


    head.


    ¡°How many times have I told you that your daddy is busy? Once you turn eighteen, he will return.¡±


    Grapemented, ¡°I¡¯m only¡­ a year and a half this year. It¡¯s going to be a long, long time until I turn


    eighteen.¡±


    Upon seeing her like this, Josie couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Time will pass quickly.¡±


    After soothing Grape, L asked in a low voice, ¡°Grape is smart, and it will be impossible to hide it


    as she grows older. You can¡¯t keep going on like this. Don¡¯t you n on returning home? Shouldn¡¯t you


    tell him?¡±


    He was careful with his words, yet in reality, even he didn¡¯t know who the child¡¯s father was. He had


    spent years in Rivodia, focused on his career and oblivious to many things. It wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t tried


    to investigate Josie¡¯s past, but all her records had been wiped clean, leaving no trace to be found.


    An image of a person surfaced in Josie¡¯s mind, someone who was perpetually aloof and proud. With


    the vestiges of her youthful spirit gone, she shook her head.


    ¡°It was my own decision to have the child, he is unaware. Two years have passed. It¡¯s not right to


    disrupt his life anymore.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°But this is his responsibility.¡±


    ¡°I can handle it myself.¡±


    ¡°Alice¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, the opening ceremony of the Golden Key Awards is tomorrow. You¡¯ll apany me there,


    otherwise I won¡¯t be able to manage with Grape. This isn¡¯t too much to ask, is it, Mr. Keller?¡± She


    blinked her eyes.


    L could only shake his head helplessly. ¡°Only you could boss the boss around.¡±

 Chapter 1041

    Chapter 1041


    The Golden Key Awards took ce in Sumanthova that year, with numerous industry leaders serving


    as judges. The participants were architectural talents from various countries.


    In the past two years, Josie had mostly taken a step back from the limelight. She had only designed a


    few works, but each one had won prestigious awards and gained widespread recognition.


    During these two years, Alice¡¯s name had be well-known, and people respectfully referred to her


    as a mentor.


    When L arrived, he wasn¡¯t alone. He brought his team members with him. A group of boys


    excitedly got out of the car and greeted Josie, saying, ¡°Hi, Ms. Jo!¡±


    ¡°Hey, Ms. Jo!¡±


    ¡°With so many people taking care of Grape, you should be at ease now, right?¡± L was thest


    one to get out of the car.


    Josie was somewhat speechless. ¡°Why are all of you here?¡±


    Michael was the first to respond, saying, ¡°We won¡¯t be returning to our country until the day after


    tomorrow. Staying in the hotel has be quite boring. We wanted to go out and get some fresh air.¡±


    Grape was surrounded by the boys, filled with joy.


    ¡°Indeed, Ms. Jo. We¡¯ll take care of Grape for you. Don¡¯t worry!¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    L said, ¡°The team is nning to go public in the second half of the year. Coincidentally, I heard


    that the investor would be in Sumanthova during this period. Even more fortunately, they have also


    invested in the hosting of the Golden Key Awards. I need to find an opportunity to meet them.¡±


    Seeing this, Josie made noment and let them take care of Grape. She also gave them a few


    instructions. ¡°The meeting venue here is quiterge. There¡¯s a garden at the back. You can take Grape


    and y there. Just make sure she doesn¡¯t eat anything she shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°No problem!¡±


    Josie held her staff ID in her hand, dressed in a beige, form-fitting dress. She didn¡¯t make any


    deliberate movements, yet her demeanor was captivating and graceful, exuding an exceptional aura.


    Michael¡¯s gaze fell on L, and his tone was somewhat casual as he asked, ¡°L, aren¡¯t you


    going to pursue her?¡±


    L nudged him. ¡°A new member is joining our team.¡±


    Michael furrowed his brows in surprise. ¡°From the youth camp?¡±


    ¡°No. She¡¯s a girl hired on a temporary basis.¡±


    Michael nced at his teammates, who were ying with Grape. ¡°You¡¯re not joking, are you?¡±


    In the world of e-sports, it was rare to see female yers, especially in a star team like Stardust. If a


    girl were to join, the fans would go crazy.


    ¡°Once the off-season arrives, the midner is set to retire, so someone needs to keep an eye on that.


    This girl is very talented, and the contract has already been signed.¡±


    After L finished speaking to Michael, he patted his shoulder and left. Before leaving, he


    instructed, ¡°You must take good care of the child.¡±


    The opening ceremony took ce at the venue. The host began by introducing the distinguished


    judges. One by one, the six judges ascended the stage, signing their names on the backdrop. They


    raised their sses together, followed by media interviews.


    Josie stood below the stage when a blue-eyed female reporter approached her. In Uprian, she asked,


    ¡°Hello, you are Alice, right? Would you be willing to grant us an exclusive interview?¡±


    Josie gave a polite smile and gently declined, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I don¡¯t ept interviews.¡±


    The female journalist felt regretful.


    At that moment, the middle-aged woman who had just finished her interview on stage overheard and


    remarked, ¡°What¡¯s with the pretentious act?¡±


    That woman was Lily.


    She was also of Clusian descent, already in her thirties. Achieving such sess at this age and gender


    wasmendable. However, she never expected that there would be a younger woman who could be


    elected as a judge.


    This consistently made her disapprove of Josie.


    The female reporter¡¯s face momentarily showed embarrassment. Josie, in a calm and unhurried


    manner, apologized to her. Then, in Clusian, she said, ¡°After all, I¡¯m not a peacock. I don¡¯t have the


    habit of showing off everywhere!¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Lily red directly at Josie. ¡°Alice, stop pretending. I find it hard to believe you¡¯ve reached your


    current position without engaging in sexual favors or ying dirty.¡±


    ¡°In all matters, evidence is crucial. In Sumanthova, I could sue you for defamation.¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

 Chapter 1042

    Chapter 1042


    ¡°Sooner orter, I will find the evidence I need,¡± Lily said, moving closer to her. ¡°In the following month,


    don¡¯t let me catch you making any mistakes.¡±


    Josie was feeling down. She had long lost interest in wasting time with such people. Unfortunately,


    competitive individuals like them could be found everywhere in the world.


    Meanwhile, L had already entered the hotel where the event was being held. The staff


    exined, ¡°Mr. Peeple is indeed here, but he has made it clear in advance that his visit to Sumanthova


    is a private one, and he will not be seeing any guests.¡±


    L furrowed his brow. ¡°Stardust just won the championship, generating a huge return for his


    company. Why wouldn¡¯t he want to meet me?¡±


    The staff member was very patient. ¡°It¡¯s a private trip. Perhaps a meeting will be arranged to discuss


    cooperation for the next quarter after he returns to the country.¡±


    L was still rather upset. He had great confidence in his own businesses and carried a certain


    degree of pride. He found it hard to ept that he had been turned away by the other party.


    However, his journey to sess required patience. He nodded, handing over an invitation letter.


    ¡°Please pass this on to Mr. Peeple. Stardust¡¯s home team arena has been established in Wavery. If he


    has the time, he is wee to attend the games at any time.¡±


    The staffplied.


    Meanwhile, Grape was brought into the back garden of the venue. The ce was indeed vast, with


    picturesque scenery, attracting many of thepetitors who hade to participate.


    ¡°Michael, you seem distracted. Is there something important on your mind?¡± a team member asked


    with concern.


    L¡¯s words lingered in Michael¡¯s mind, but he had no authority to interfere with the team¡¯s


    personnel changes. Michael was somewhat worried, shaking his head.


    At that moment, Grape was stepping on thewn with her little legs, walking unsteadily. ¡°Mikey, I have


    some candy for you. My mommy says that eating candy makes you feel better.¡±


    As she spoke, she slipped a grape-vored candy into his hand.


    Finally, Michael smiled, gently pinching Grape¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re such a good girl. Thank you, Grape.¡±


    Those boys were still teenagers themselves, inexperienced in handling children. Fortunately, Grape


    was well-behaved. She sat quietly in her seat for over an hour withoutining of boredom.


    But it seemed she couldn¡¯t hold it in any longer. She tugged at Michael¡¯s finger and said, ¡°Mikey, I need


    to use the restroom.¡±


    Michael paused for a moment, then looked towards the women¡¯s restroom, exchanging a nce with


    his teammates. ¡°Should the child go to thedies¡¯ room? We¡¯re all guys here¡­ What should we do?¡±


    Grape furrowed her tiny eyebrows tightly. ¡°I really need to go.¡±


    ¡°Damn!¡± A teammate quickly picked her up as a group of people rushed towards thedies¡¯ restroom.


    ¡°Hold on, Grape.¡±


    Following closely behind, Michael suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t we find ady to apany her? A waitress?


    A staff member?¡±


    Grape cried out, ¡°I can¡¯t hold it any longer!¡±


    Several people had already arrived at the entrance of the women¡¯s restroom, yet not a single one


    dared to enter, exchanging uneasy nces.


    For the past couple of days, Helena had been staying in the hotel. Overwhelmed by boredom, she had


    heard about an event taking ce and decided to check it out. Unexpectedly, as she turned a corner,


    she stumbled upon such a ridiculous scene.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°You all¡­¡± Helena stepped forward, thinking she must be mistaken. ¡°Are you members of Stardust?¡±


    It was quite peculiar to see a few young boys carrying a little girl.


    Nobody in the crowd actually knew her, but seeing her recognize them, they quickly nodded. ¡°You¡¯re a


    fan, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Eager for an answer, Helena pursed her lips. ¡°I guess so.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± They quickly handed Grape to Helena. ¡°Please, could you take her to the restroom?¡±


    Helena lowered her gaze to meet the child¡¯s eyes, and a spark ignited in both of their eyes.


    ¡°Grape?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Swear Words!¡±

 Chapter 1043

    Chapter 1043


    The air fell silent for a few seconds afterward.


    As the scrutinizing gaze grew increasingly intense, Helena couldn¡¯t bear to stay a second longer.


    Clutching Grape, she quickly stepped into thedies¡¯ restroom, eximing, ¡°Leave it to me!¡±


    In the end, Grape didn¡¯t wet her pants.


    ¡°Helena, what brings you here?¡± Grape was delighted to see her.


    Helena couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°I¡¯m staying here! Promise me, don¡¯t call me Ms. Swear Words


    anymore, okay?¡±


    Grape tilted her head in thought. ¡°But sometimes my mommy also uses foulnguage. It¡¯s not a big


    deal.¡±


    Helena understood what Grape meant, but she still said, ¡°It¡¯s okay. Just call me Hellie.¡±


    Grape seemed to understand but not quite, and she nodded.


    As she was putting on her pants, she asked, ¡°Hellie, you¡¯re also from Clusia. Have you ever met my


    daddy?¡±


    Helena was at a loss. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen him before.¡±


    Grape immediately fell into destion.


    Upon exiting the restroom, those teenagers were still waiting in the same spot, their expressions heavy,


    as if they were discussing some serious matter.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us earlier that you were nning to retire?¡±


    The one being questioned was a chubby boy. He rubbed his head, somewhat embarrassed. ¡°My hand


    injury is too severe. I can¡¯t y anymore. I didn¡¯t mention it earlier because I didn¡¯t want to burden you


    all.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t just up and leave like that. Injuries can be healed. Do you really have to retire?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    A few people were exchanging words, but only Michael remained silent. He leaned against the wall, his


    expression solemn.


    Helena found herself unable to interject, her emotions aplex tangle. She ced Grape beside


    them and said, ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t soft, but perhaps because everyone was engrossed in their own worlds, they didn¡¯t listen


    carefully, nor did they notice the presence of the little girl.


    Grape¡¯s innocent eyes were filled with confusion. She didn¡¯t understand why the teenagers were


    arguing. After a moment of thought, she trotted to catch up with Helena¡¯s figure.


    At that moment, Helena had just received a message from Mallory. The text read: Come to the


    backyard. I¡¯ll introduce you to an investor of Stardust.


    Helena pursed her lips and replied, ¡°Mallory, is it toote for me to change my mind now?¡±


    A voice message came from the other end, filled with urgency. ¡°You chose to enter the Stardust


    yourself. Why are you having second thoughts now?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Come here first.¡±


    Over the past two years, Mallory had also invested a considerable amount of money into various


    industries through her own means. However, most of the time, she was busy handling affairs for others.


    Matters that the big shots behind the scenes couldn¡¯t handle themselves were all entrusted to her.


    Helena was a child of her mother¡¯s rtives. She had just turned eighteen and showed great talent in


    e-sports. Fortunately, Mallory had the resources to help Helena, so she lent a hand.


    Helena had been staying there for two days before she discovered such a ce behind the hotel. The


    small courtyard was filled with clusters of flowers, brimming with vitality in the spring season.


    Mallory, with her radiant beauty, was listlessly watering the flowers, holding a watering can in her hand.


    Beside her stood a man, dressed in a suit and wearing sses, who seemed as if he could never make


    a mistake.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been in Sumanthova for too long. Mr. Barrett must be getting anxious.¡±


    ¡°He probably can¡¯t wait for me to leave Wavery, considering it as his golden opportunity,¡± Mallory joked


    half-heartedly.


    ¡°I can tell that Mr. Barrett treats you quite well.¡±


    ¡°Larry, I haven¡¯t asked you yet. Why did you suddenlye to Sumanthova?¡±


    Larry adjusted his sses, maintaining a strictly professional demeanor. ¡°Of course, there¡¯s a matter at


    hand.¡±


    Mallory cast a brief nce over her shoulder. The atmosphere within the courtyard was oppressive. A


    figure, elusive as a shadow, stood by the birdcage, teasing the upants with food. The person¡¯s


    profile was hazy, making it impossible to discern the expression.


    Yet, the aura was incredibly powerful.


    Helena stood outside for a while, then cautiously called out, ¡°Mallory.¡±


    Only then did Mallory notice her.

 Chapter 1044

    Chapter 1044


    He called her over and introduced, ¡°This is Mr. Peeple, the investor of Stardust. If you join Stardust, you


    will inevitably interact with him frequently. Please greet him.¡±


    Helena gestured towards Larry and greeted, ¡°Hello, Mr. Peeple.¡±


    Larry nodded. ¡°You¡¯re very beautiful. Once the news gets out, it will certainly create a huge wave of


    excitement.¡±


    Recalling the recent argument among the young men, Helena gave a bitter smile and said, ¡°They must


    be cursing me fervently.¡±


    Mallory chuckled. ¡°If you want to step onto the stage, there¡¯s bound to be malice. It¡¯s best to just bear


    with it.¡±


    Larry pulled out an invitation and said, ¡°This is from the boss of Stardust. On the day of your


    performance, I will be there to watch yourpetition.¡±


    Helena was quite grateful. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Peeple. I¡¯ve heard about the mysterious financial backer of


    Stardust for a long time, but I didn¡¯t expect you to be so pleasant to deal with.¡±


    However, it was out of respect for Mallory.


    Larry stood with his hands behind his back. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m not the initial investor in this project¡­¡±


    Halfway through his speech, he nced in the direction where Mallory had been looking earlier. The


    figure by the window had already disappeared. He sighed almost inaudibly. ¡°Forget about it. It¡¯s


    nothing.¡±


    Mallory listened to their conversation when suddenly, a small figure appeared in her peripheral vision.


    She focused her gaze and saw Grape sitting on the doorstep. Her chubby face was a mix of fear and


    anxiety as she looked at them, unsure whether she should enter or not.


    ¡°Where did this childe from?¡± Mallory rose to her feet.


    Taken aback, Helena looked around in surprise. ¡°Grape! How did you manage to follow me here?¡±


    Upon closer inspection, there was no one following her, which meant she had gone off on her own.


    Upon seeing the strangers, Grape said in a soft voice, ¡°I want to be with you, Hellie. I don¡¯t want to be


    with the boys.¡±


    For a moment, Helena didn¡¯t know what to say. Faced with Mallory¡¯s questioning, she was at a loss for


    a response. ¡°This¡­ Actually, I also don¡¯t know whose child this is¡­¡±


    Helena had only met Josie once, so she didn¡¯t even know Josie¡¯s name.


    Mallory, impatient, pped her forehead. ¡°Tell the hotel to help find the child¡¯s parents.¡±


    However, when she looked closely, she felt a sense of familiarity with the child. ¡°Thoserge, sparkling


    eyes look like someone¡­¡±


    Larry seemed to also find some resemnce. He exchanged a nce with her, and in the end, shook


    his head, implying that it was impossible.


    ¡°Mr. Peeple.¡±


    At that moment, a deep male voice resonated. Grape turned towards the source of the sound, only to


    see a tall, aloof man standing at the doorway. His gaze was intense, and the way his eyes fell upon her


    was dangerously captivating.


    Yet, there was an inexplicable allure.


    Grape couldn¡¯t take her eyes off him. He was truly handsome. She had never seen a man as attractive


    as him before.


    Helena was also taken aback. She hadn¡¯t expected to encounter such a character there.


    Larry quickly turned around. ¡°Mr. Russell, she¡¯s a lost child. I¡¯ll have someone handle it immediately.¡±


    It was Dexter.


    He stood under the spring sun, bathed in nted sunlight, gazing at the child for a long while.


    Surprisingly, the child was not afraid of him, meeting his gaze.


    He furrowed his brows slightly, a harbinger of his displeasure.


    Mallory didn¡¯t dare to linger for even a second. She pushed Helena, urging, ¡°Let¡¯s go quickly.¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Just as Helena was about to take a step, she heard that dangerous voice say, ¡°Since she¡¯s lost, let¡¯s


    keep her for now.¡±


    Helena found herself caught between a rock and a hard ce.


    Five minutester, she found Michael¡¯s contact information. She sent him numerous messages, asking


    him toe and take Grape away.


    Despite this, it seemed he hadn¡¯t looked at his phone at all, and there was no response.


    Little did she know that the teenagers had just realized the child was missing and were nearly driven to


    madness with worry.

 Chapter 1045

    Chapter 1045


    Grape fearlessly interacted with the butterflies that were lured into the yard by the flowers, filled with


    joy.


    The butterflies eventually flew away, and Grape tried to keep them from leaving. In her attempt, she


    stumbled into a warm, broad embrace, catching a faint scent of sandalwood.


    A pair ofrge hands steadied her, and she looked up to see a face as expressionless as an iceberg.


    With a yful smile, she reached out, hoping to coax augh from him.


    ¡°Mister, you¡¯re quite intimidating,¡± she said.


    Mallory felt a chill run down her spine. ¡°Maybe we should take her away. Leaving her here is too


    disruptive.¡±


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    Dexter¡¯s gaze was heavy as he stared at the child in his arms. ¡°A child barely over a year old can¡¯t


    cause much trouble.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± he asked, holding her hand.


    ¡°My mommy said that my eyes resemble grapes, so she named me Grape,¡± she exined.


    How thoughtless¡­ Dexter squinted slightly. ¡°Where¡¯s your mommy?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s working.¡±


    ¡°Did she abandon you?¡±


    ¡°Not at all! My mommy said she had to earn a lot of money so she could find a daddy for me. She¡¯s


    doing it all for me, not neglecting me,¡± Grape said, tilting her head.


    Mallory was amused andughed. ¡°Most children over a year old don¡¯t speak fluently, but she¡¯s already


    very logical. Quite intelligent.¡±


    A faint smile tugged at the corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth, as if he was thinking of someone. ¡°Where is your


    daddy?¡±


    ¡°Mommy said that Daddy is in Clusia, but he¡¯s very busy. He won¡¯t be able toe back to see me


    until I turn eighteen. I¡¯m only a year and a half old now!¡± Grape sighed heavily, deeply troubled. ¡°There


    are so many years to go.¡±


    The adults had already understood the situation. It seemed that the child¡¯s father was likely no longer


    around, which would exin why the child¡¯s mother was resorting to such desperate measures.


    Dexter¡¯s voice was somewhat hoarse. He coughed once, avoiding the child.


    Larry was on pins and needles. He took Helena¡¯s hand. ¡°Let me apany you to go out and look


    around.¡±


    Naturally, Helena didn¡¯t want to dy things. Unable to wait for Michael¡¯s response, she had no choice


    but to go out and look for him. ¡°All right.¡±


    After taking a few steps, she couldn¡¯t help but worry about the child. ¡°Grape¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes were calm. ¡°Go on.¡±


    Grape was quite bold. She sat on the man¡¯s long legs, unable to suppress herughter. ¡°Mister, you¡¯re


    really handsome.¡±


    The corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth curved slightly. He had never been praised by a one-year-old child


    before.


    ¡°At such a tender age, how could you possibly know what handsome is?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I know. My mommy is very beautiful, and you¡¯re very handsome. All the attractive people on


    TV end up together. They call it a match made in heaven!¡± Grape, the innocent child, loudly asked,


    ¡°Can you be my daddy?¡±


    Dexter was rendered speechless.


    Mallory watched Dexter¡¯s expression, always feeling that he was about to throw the child out any


    second.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never even met your mommy. How could I possibly be your daddy?¡± Dexter was in an unusually


    good mood, probably because she was just too adorable.


    ¡°My mommy is quite beautiful and very intelligent. You won¡¯t be at a disadvantage,¡± Grape said, waving


    her little hand. ¡°I can take you to meet her!¡±


    As she spoke, she was about to leap, clutching onto Dexter¡¯s fingers.


    He was uninterested, restless, and with a calm demeanor, he asked, ¡°What if your mommy doesn¡¯t like


    me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. My mommy likes all handsome men.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t know what to say in response.


    ¡°But you are the most attractive person I¡¯ve ever seen, so she¡¯s bound to like you.¡±


    Mallory couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve seen someone going on a blind date on behalf


    of their mother. I must say, it¡¯s truly adorable.¡±


    Dexter absentmindedly toyed with her hair strands. The angle was somewhat tricky, giving him an


    illusion.


    He momentarily lost focus, his lips turning downward.


    Grape winced in pain, looking up. ¡°Mister, you hurt me. You owe me an apology.¡±


    When Dexter lifted his gaze again, the look in his eyes had grown significantly colder.

 Chapter 1046

    Chapter 1046


    Meanwhile, when Michael realized that Grape had gone missing, it was already toote. She was


    nowhere to be seen.


    The group exchanged nces, their expressions filled with terror. ¡°We¡¯re doomed!¡± they thought.


    Michael was the first to calm down. ¡°Let¡¯s start by searching around. I¡¯ll go find the person in charge of


    the hotel to report the situation.¡±


    Since the child was barely over a year old, she couldn¡¯t have gone far. However, to their surprise, she


    was nowhere to be found.


    Helena left the courtyard house with Larry to find someone. During this time, Helena felt uneasy.


    Seeing that the man seemed approachable, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Mr. Peeple, about the man in


    the courtyard earlier¡­ Is he a good person?¡±


    Larry chuckled in response. ¡°I suppose so.¡±


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°What do you mean? If he¡¯s a good person, then he¡¯s a good person, right?¡± Helena became instantly


    worried. ¡°Grape is with him. If anything goes wrong, I can¡¯t bear the responsibility.¡±


    Larry shook his head helplessly. ¡°He¡¯s just not feeling well. He wouldn¡¯t harm the child.¡±


    Feeling unwell? Helena realized that the man earlier exuded an aura of authority, yet there was a hint


    of vulnerability in his demeanor. It was a deep-seated mncholy that had been building up for years,


    unable to dissipate.


    ¡°So, he¡¯s your boss, right?¡±


    ¡°Indeed.¡±


    Helena was somewhat taken aback. She had heard from Mallory before that Larry controlled the


    capital, which was greater than thebined investments of all the teams. He was the leading figure in


    Wavery.


    The reason why Stardust was able to establish itself in Wavery was due to his assistance.


    Yet, she had just learned that Larry had a superior. ¡°That man indeed exuded an immense aura of


    authority that deterred most people from approaching him.¡±


    Seeing Helena lost in thought, Larry patted her shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. There¡¯s no ce safer than the


    courtyard house we were just in. Let¡¯s quickly find the child¡¯s mother.¡±


    Helena nodded in agreement.


    After attending the opening ceremony, Josie briefly met with the variouspetitors and finally found


    the opportunity to leave.


    However, as soon as she stepped out of the door, she saw the teenagers from the team rushing over in


    a hurry. Her beautiful eyes flickered, and she stood firm, raising her voice. ¡°What¡¯s the rush?¡±


    The teenagers were startled by Josie¡¯s voice and had no choice but to walk over, stammering, ¡°I-I¡­ W-


    We¡­¡±


    They struggled to find the right words.


    ¡°Ms. Jo, have you finished your work?¡±


    Josie waved the staff ID in her hand. ¡°Almost done. How about you guys? Where¡¯s Grape?¡±


    Everyone was present and ounted for, but Grape was nowhere to be seen. This left her visibly


    puzzled.


    The boy at the forefront swallowed, exchanging nces with hispanions for a while, unsure


    whether to tell the truth. Just as he was mentally preparing himself to speak, Michael felt his phone


    vibrate, and he took it out to check.


    ¡°Ms. Jo, we have an issue. About Grape, she¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish speaking, Michael abruptly interrupted, ¡°Grape is ying outside.¡±


    The others abruptly fell silent.


    Josie squinted, scrutinizing them. ¡°So what¡¯s all this fuss about?¡±


    ¡°W-We need to use the restroom.¡± Michael gestured as he spoke, a half-hearted smile on his face.


    As he spoke, he led the others outside, ¡°Ms. Jo, I¡¯m going to fetch Grape for you. Please wait here.¡±


    With that, they ran off.


    Josie was utterly confused, standing in ce, somewhat unable toprehend.


    However, rather than saying she trusted these few individuals, it would be more urate to say she


    trusted Grape. After all, she was a smart but mischievous child.


    Just at that moment, L descended the stairs, and upon seeing her, he called out, ¡°Alice!¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Josie turned her head. ¡°Mr. Busyman, have you finished handling your matters?¡±


    L casually shoved his hands into his pockets, his voiceced with helpless sarcasm. ¡°There are


    plenty of people in this world who are busier than me.¡±

 Chapter 1047

    Chapter 1047


    Outside, Michael located Helena at the designated location she had sent him, and the two came face to


    face once again.


    ¡°Where is the child?¡± he asked, panting heavily. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you inform us before taking the child


    away?¡±


    Helena was also extremely anxious, but upon hearing this usation, she immediately became upset.


    ¡°What are you saying? I should be the one asking how you couldn¡¯t even keep an eye on a child,¡± she


    retorted.


    Michael¡¯s fury caused his temples to throb. His teammate restrained him. ¡°Enough arguing. Where is


    Grape?¡±


    Only then, somewhat reluctantly, did Helena lead them to the courtyard house.


    The dim light gradually faded, taking away thest bit of sunlight from the room. Dexter sat in a corner,


    engrossed in a book, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.


    The little girl, just over a year old,y quietly on the nearby table, staring nkly at the carp in the fish


    tank.


    Thepanionship between the two was a rarebination of tranquility and harmony.


    Suddenly, there was amotion outside. It was Larry, and he hurried in. ¡°Mr. Russell, I will take the


    child away immediately.¡±


    Grape pouted and looked up. ¡°Has Mommye to find me?¡±


    Larry smiled and replied, ¡°Yes.¡± He then lifted her up. ¡°We should go.¡±Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Turning around, Grape bid farewell to the gloomy man in a formal manner. ¡°Goodbye, Mister.¡±


    Dexter gave a slight lift of his eyelids, acknowledging the situation.


    Grape stumbled a few steps forward, then seemed to remember something. She pulled her hand free


    from Larry and returned to Dexter¡¯s side. ¡°Mister, Mommy says eating candy makes you happy. You


    should be happy. You look unpleasant when you¡¯re frowning.¡±


    With that, she slipped a piece of candy into Dexter¡¯srge hand.


    Dexter furrowed his brows, scrutinizing her in an unexpected manner.


    She had already left with a spring in her step, leaving behind a cheerful silhouette.


    Larry quickly followed suit.


    Outside, when Michael and the others saw Grape safe and sound, they finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°You little rascal, you scared us to death. How could you just go off with someone you don¡¯t know?¡±


    Grape answered earnestly, ¡°It was I who secretly followed Hellie. You all are too boring. I like Hellie.¡±


    Upon hearing the truth from the child, a hint of surprise shed across Michael¡¯s face. He then turned


    to Helena. ¡°I apologize. I misunderstood.¡±


    Receiving an apology from her future teammate, Helena was momentarily taken aback. She waved her


    hand dismissively. ¡°Just be more careful in the future.¡±


    She was young, and her face was full of vitality. When the setting sun shone on her, half of her face


    turned red.


    Instinctively, Michael averted his gaze.


    Meanwhile, Josie and L had already followed their route. The more they looked at the building,


    the more they felt something was amiss. ¡°This should be a separate courtyard house of the hotel, a


    private domain for the wealthy. How did it end up here¡­¡±


    While still in doubt, she saw Michael and the others leading the child out from a building in the


    courtyard.


    ¡°Mommy!¡±


    After being out of sight for half a day, the little girl called out sweetly and threw herself into her arms.


    Josie embraced her and asked, ¡°Where did you go with the boys?¡±


    ¡°We had fun.¡±


    Josie smiled, tilting her head back to say to the teenagers, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    On the way home, L drove while Josie sat in the back seat, cradling Grape. She casually asked,


    ¡°What did you do with the boys today?¡±


    Grape was engrossed in ying with her long hair, responding in a childish voice to a few questions


    before finally saying, ¡°I saw the youngdy from yesterday and a very strange man.¡±


    ¡°Strange?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! He was quite fierce, yet incredibly handsome. I told him you would definitely like him if you


    saw him!¡±


    Josie was taken aback when she heard that.

 Chapter 1048

    Chapter 1048


    Realizing that her daughter was quite the social butterfly, she never expected her to be so sociable.


    ¡°Speaking like that is too presumptuous, and it could upset other people,¡± Josie said.


    Grape thought for a moment and replied, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. He seemed a bit upset. He didn¡¯t smile at all!¡±


    ¡°So, you shouldn¡¯t say things like that again.¡±


    L nced at the rearview mirror. ¡°Grape, I love to smile. Do you think I¡¯m handsome?¡±


    ¡°Of course! But you¡¯re not as handsome as that man!¡± Grape answered.


    Children always speak without reservation, and Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh at her words. Josie was


    genuinely curious about how handsome that man must be, so she asked, ¡°Does that man live in the


    courtyard we just passed?¡±


    Grape nodded. ¡°There were many flowers inside, butterflies, and fish.¡±


    Josie caught a whiff of sandalwood from the child, a familiar scent, yet she couldn¡¯t quite ce where


    she had smelled it before.


    Grape nestled in Josie¡¯s soft embrace, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as she asked, ¡°Mommy, I


    liked the man I just met. Can we make him my daddy?¡±


    Josie¡¯s words suddenly stuck in her throat. The little girl needed a father¡¯s love more than she had ever


    imagined.


    Josie then lifted her head, her eyes meeting L¡¯s worried gaze head-on, and silence fell between


    them.


    Seeing that Josie did not respond, the anticipation in Grape¡¯s eyes gradually faded. She mumbled, ¡°I


    don¡¯t want him anymore, Mommy. Please don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    A wave of emotions surged through Josie.


    Josie held her even tighter, an image of that man surfacing in her mind. What would happen if he were


    here? I can¡¯t dwell on that.


    Meanwhile, in the room of the courtyard house, Dexter never turned another page of the book he had


    left on the table.


    When Larry walked in, he happened to see the man staring intently at his palm. Lying there quietly was


    a piece of grape-vored candy.


    Larry paused, then carefully said, ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    For a moment, Dexter closed his palm, half of his face shrouded in gloom. ¡°Don¡¯t you think the child


    bears some resemnce to me?¡±


    Larry was somewhat taken aback when he heard that. He had been worried and hadn¡¯t really taken a


    close look at the child. ¡°Well¡­ Maybe her eyes? However, perhaps it was because the child was too


    adorable. We were all biased from the start.¡±


    Larry thought it was impossible for a child to resemble Dexter.


    Dexter paused in thought for a moment, quickly closing his eyes. Indeed, he had been influenced by


    the child¡¯s innocent words. Did she make me believe I was her father? That¡¯s absurd.


    ¡°How are things with Justin?¡± Dexter casually tossed the piece of candy onto the table with a flick of his


    hand.


    ¡°He has already settled down in La Oriele and has earned Mr. Dalton¡¯s trust. Unaware that we are the


    ones calling the shots, he carries out his tasks with exceptional dedication.¡±


    ¡°What about his safety?¡±


    ¡°There won¡¯t be any issues.¡±


    Dexter pressed his brow lightly, rxing slightly. Justin is the only person she still cares about. No


    matter what, I have to keep him safe.


    ¡°Has there been any news from Sumanthova?¡±


    ¡°We haven¡¯t found anything yet¡­¡± Larry¡¯s voice was soft. ¡°Actually, these kinds of rumors are generally


    inurate. I can handle it. There¡¯s no need for you toe personally. It¡¯s too taxing on your health.¡±


    Dexter did not respond.


    Larry fell silent. Over the past two years, wherever in the world there was even the slightest hint of


    Josie, Dexter would personally go to investigate, all in the hope of seeing her.


    Yet, every attempt ended up in vain.


    One could guess that Josie had probably changed her name and erased all her past information, which


    would exin why she was so difficult to locate.


    It would seem as though she had made up her mind, severing all ties with the past.


    Dexter¡¯s voice carried a hint of fatigue as well as a touch of certainty when he uttered, ¡°She will return.¡±Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

 Chapter 1049

    Chapter 1049


    ¡°Yes,¡± Larry said, ¡°The Golden Key Awardspetition has already been fullyunched. Would you


    like to monitor the entire process?¡±


    When it came to news about the construction industry, Dexter never missed a thing.


    He nodded in acknowledgment. ¡°Let me take a look at the list.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    There were too many people involved, from judges to contestants. Going through each one of them


    individually would be time-consuming andborious, so Larry was hesitant. ¡°The doctor has advised


    you to rest for at least ten hours a day. You shouldn¡¯t be engaging in mentally and physically draining


    activities.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dexter sneered from the shadows. ¡°You really think I¡¯m useless, huh?¡±


    Larry immediately bowed apologetically. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I¡¯m just concerned about your health,


    which hasn¡¯t improved since the car ident two years ago.¡±


    Speaking of this, a hint of sadness shed across Dexter¡¯s face.


    Two years ago, on a rainy night, Josie¡¯s ne took off. Dexter was speeding along the Second


    Highway in his car. Countless nes were taking off andnding overhead, but he had no way of


    knowing which one was hers. He drove dozens of kilometers just to see her off.


    Thest thing he could do for her was to set her free.


    As dawn broke, Josie¡¯s flight had already departed from Wavery. On his way back, Dexter suddenly felt


    a self-destructive resolve.


    He let go of the steering wheel and closed his eyes.


    The car crashed directly into the treewn.


    The severity of that ident wounded his heart and left him confined to a hospital bed for nearly half a


    year, almost devoid of any vitality.


    After Josie left, he felt like a fish removed from water, unable to survive any longer.


    By the time he realized that he loved and needed her far more than he had ever imagined, it was


    already toote.


    Dexter spent countless nights regretting not keeping her by his side.


    Yet he would ponder, perhaps if given another chance, he would still let her go, as long as she could be


    happy.


    When he snapped out of his series of shbacks, Larry had already obtained the list. There were a


    total of ten judges and hundreds of contestants, each with a distinct countenance.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was immediately drawn to a woman. Her face was unfamiliar to him, yet he felt an


    inexplicable sense of familiarity.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± he asked, pointing at an avatar named Alice.


    Larry nced at it and recited smoothly, ¡°This is a very young rising star in the industry. She is in her


    early twenties and is very talented. She¡¯s Clusian, but the person in this picture¡­ I don¡¯t recognize


    her.¡±


    The words that followed were spoken with utmost caution.


    After all, it wasn¡¯t Josie¡¯s face. To support his im, Larry hastily added, ¡°There are many Clusians


    among the judges, and this one named Lily is one of them.¡±


    The age indicated that she was already in her thirties.


    Dexter closed his eyes upon hearing that. He had experienced this feeling of disappointment far too


    many times.


    Larry studied his expression. ¡°Was it necessary to be present at the scene when the selection process


    began? Russell Group has invested in thispetition, and the other partners are all in Sumanthova,


    so there was bound to be some ovep.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    After ying all day, Grape quickly fell asleep.


    Engrossed in the documents on herputer, Josie turned to L and asked, ¡°Are we returning to


    the country tomorrow?¡±


    L, dressed in a white sweater, calmly replied, ¡°After the team clinched the championship, there


    are numerous matters that need to be dealt with. We¡¯ll be swamped for a while, so we really can¡¯t stay


    in Sumanthova for long.¡±


    Josie remarked that it was a good thing.


    L looked at her and added, ¡°However, there¡¯s still time to take you to the venue. The flight is in


    the afternoon, so I can help take care of the child for half a day.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°Aren¡¯t you considerate?¡± This was crucial for a mother with a child.


    ¡°You¡¯re not just a capitalist, L. You¡¯re a lifesaver!¡±

 Chapter 1050

    Chapter 1050


    Her cries resembled those of a young girl, causing L to burst intoughter. ¡°Compared to when I


    first met you, I prefer the way you are now, full of vitality,¡± he said.


    Their first encounter took ce during a job interview. She appeared lifeless, like a stagnant pool of


    water. Although her work was lively, she herself seemed devoid of life.


    Now, it could be said that she hade back to life.


    Upon hearing these words, Josie was taken aback, and she too began to have a shback from the


    past.


    L let out a sigh. ¡°Smile more, Alice. You look very beautiful when you smile. I really like it.¡±


    Given the atmosphere and the topic at hand, his statement was somewhat crossing boundaries,


    causing Josie to flinch in response. ¡°I-I know¡­¡± she stammered while subconsciously avoiding his


    gaze.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    L, however, maintained his intense gaze fixed on her. ¡°Alice. I turn thirty this year, and I haven¡¯t


    had much experience with women. As you know. Sometimes, when I return to my empty house, I wish I


    had someone to talk to. Before I met you, I had never experienced such a harmonious coboration


    with anyone else. You understood my principles, and I understood your ambitions. We worked together,


    both in business and personal matters, and we did quite well, didn¡¯t we?¡±


    Josie felt uneasy upon hearing such sincere words.


    A subconscious resistance stirred within her heart as she chuckled, ¡°You are my superior, so it¡¯s only


    natural that I look up to you.¡±


    L couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯ve been through in the past, nor do I know what


    kind of man Grape¡¯s father is, to make you uninterested in everyone. But what I want to say is, I¡¯m


    interested in you. It¡¯s the kind of interest that makes me want to have a future with you.¡±


    Yup, he¡¯s definitely crossing the line now!


    For a moment, Josie didn¡¯t know how to avoid him. She was somewhat flustered as she said, ¡°I¡­


    Um¡­ I¡¯m tired.¡±


    ¡°Alice.¡± L grasped her wrist, forcing her to look at him as he continued, ¡°My trip to Sumanthova


    this time wasn¡¯t just for work. It was primarily for you. Why don¡¯t you give both yourself and me a


    chance? I am very fond of Grape, and I am willing to be her father. That way, she wouldn¡¯t have to


    wait until she turns eighteen. You should consider her future.¡±


    With that, L had said everything he needed to say.


    Seeing Josie¡¯s silence, L refrained from saying anything further. He stood up, tidied up the trash


    by her side, and took it away. He left without any further ado, gently closing the door behind him.


    The room fell into silence, leaving Josie alone in a daze.


    Should I try to ept someone again? I have never thought about that before, and I never dared to.


    L was right about one thing, though. I should indeed consider Grape¡¯s future. It was already


    unfair that she was suddenly brought into this world, so she shouldn¡¯t have to suffer even more during


    her upbringing.


    Yet in her mind, she would still asionally recall the image of that man. She would always wonder


    what would happen if it were him instead, and what would happen if he found out.


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯ve simply gone mad!¡± she murmured softly.


    The following morning, as expected, L arrived punctually to pick up Josie and her daughter. As if


    he had forgotten what he said the previous night, his behavior seemed as graceful as ever. Not once


    did he pressure Josie into giving him a response.


    ¡°Today¡¯s work will take the whole day. It¡¯s going to be tough,¡± L said as he escorted Josie into the


    hotel¡¯s conference room.


    Grape nestled in L¡¯s arms, then said, ¡°It must be tough, Mommy.¡±


    A warm feeling filled Josie¡¯s heart as she waved, smiling.


    As she turned around, Dexter entered through the main door, apanied by Larry.


    The first thing he saw, in fact, was Grape. She was perched on L¡¯s shoulder, her eyes darting


    around, before they settled on Dexter. ¡°Daddy!¡± she eximed.


    After speaking, she quickly covered her mouth with her hand. She clearly wanted to call him Mr.


    Russell, but the word ¡®dad¡¯ slipped out instead.


    L was also startled by her. As he turned around, he was surprised to see Larry, ¡°Mr. Peeple?¡±

 Chapter 1051

    Chapter 1051


    Larry was also surprised. ¡°You¡¯re¡­ Mr. Keller.¡±


    Then, looking at the child, he said, ¡°Then, this must be¡­¡±


    Grape smiled sweetly. ¡°It¡¯s me, sir.¡±


    L¡¯s face stiffened slightly. Normally, influential figures like Larry wouldn¡¯t recognize someone


    insignificant like Grape, let alone a child.


    ¡°Have you two met before?¡± L asked.


    Larry smiled at Grape. ¡°We¡¯ve met once before.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t sure if it was just his imagination, but he noticed a resemnce between the child and


    Dexter, especially around the eyes and brows.


    L¡¯s gaze fell upon the man standing next to Larry. The man was dressed modestly, with his face


    hidden behind a ck mask. Although his features were concealed, there was an intimidating aura in


    his eyes and brows, a subtle hint of nobility emanating from his calm demeanor.


    The powerful Larry, who held great authority, seemed to be obediently following the man¡¯s advice when


    he was by his side.


    ¡°This is¡­¡±


    Larry cautiously nced at Dexter. ¡°Mr. Russell, this is the person in charge of Stardust, Mr. L


    Keller.¡±


    Dexter nodded in acknowledgment, but remained silent.


    Seeing the situation, L decided to retract the hand he was about to extend, then turned to Grape


    and said, ¡°Say hello to Mr. Russell.¡±


    Grape¡¯s eyes were fixed intently on Dexter.


    He subtly nced sideways.


    Just then, two individuals dressed in uniforms briskly walked out. They apologized in Uprian, ¡°We¡¯re


    sorry, Mr. Peeple. We were dyed by a minor issue. This way, please.¡±


    Larry quickly said, ¡°Mr. Keller, let¡¯s talk another time. We should leave now.¡±


    L agreed.


    As he closely watched Larry following behind Dexter, matching his pace, it was clear that Larry was in a


    subordinate position. L looked confused. He held Grape in one hand and took out his phone with


    the other.


    ¡°Do you know Mr. Larry Peeple, the professional agent from Apex Ventures?¡± L asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Why?¡± the person on the other end asked.


    ¡°Does he have a boss?¡±


    Upon hearing this, the other party scoffed. ¡°Of course, an agent like him has a boss. What¡¯s the


    matter? Are you curious about who¡¯s supporting him?¡±


    Behind someone like Larry, there was an even more influential figure.


    ¡°Yeah. Could you look that up for me?¡±


    After hanging up the phone, L looked towards Grape, only to find her staring nkly at the spot


    where Dexter had left, her face filled with unhappiness and destion.


    ¡°Grape, was the guy you saw yesterday the same person we just saw?¡±


    Although they couldn¡¯t see his face clearly, his demeanor was distinguished.


    ¡°Yes. Mister ignored me.¡± She felt indignant.


    Dexter had already entered the venue. The staff had specifically arranged for him to have a prime spot


    where he could clearly see the people present, as well as the location of the judges.


    At that time, the judges had not yet entered the venue. The hall was filled with contestants of all sorts.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Dexter subtly lifted his gaze, scrutinizing the crowd, attempting to locate a familiar figure.


    In the first round of selection, the judges were able to use their professional expertise to eliminate


    contestants based on their discretion.


    When Josie walked up to the stage, she was in the most secluded corner, a blind spot in Dexter¡¯s field


    of vision.


    At first, everything was normal. Half an hour passed, and Josie eliminated a contestant. Suddenly, Lily


    eximed, ¡°Alice, how could you miss such a perfect piece!¡±


    Perfect¡­


    Josie cast a doubtful nce at the blueprint in front of her, raising an eyebrow as she waited for Lily¡¯s


    next sentence.


    ¡°This piece of work, whether in terms ofposition or line work, as well as the concept behind the


    design, was all quite wless. If you didn¡¯t give it a high score, that would be understandable, but how


    could you give it a low score?¡±


    Lily openly questioned Josie¡¯s judgment. All the contestants turned their attention to her, gathered


    around, and awaited Josie¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°Are you okay, Lily?¡± Josie asked, with a hint of sarcasm.


    Lily shook her head in disbelief and expressed her astonishment, saying, ¡°I really can¡¯t understand how


    you were chosen as a judge. I always suspected there was a lot of favoritism involved.¡±

 Chapter 1052

    Chapter 1052


    The contestants observed the artwork that Josie had rejected. They couldn¡¯t help butment,


    ¡°Indeed, the drawing is quite impressive. Why was it passed over¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. It¡¯s much better than mine.¡±


    ¡°This contestant is really unlucky to encounter such a judge.¡±


    ¡°How could this have happened?¡±


    Josie was left speechless.


    She didn¡¯t pay attention to their words. Instead, she turned to Lily. ¡°Do you think this is a good piece of


    work?¡±


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    ¡°Seriously?¡± Lily scoffed, ¡°Are you questioning me? With my years of experience in this field, I can


    definitely distinguish between good and bad works.¡±


    Josie nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Alice, I seriously doubt the credibility of the awards you¡¯ve received over the years.¡±


    Amidst themotion, Dexter couldn¡¯t find the familiar face he was searching for. He took a deep


    breath, feeling mncholic. He wasn¡¯t fond of such lively scenes, and he had shown great patience by


    staying until then.


    The staff members on the side were trembling with fear. They couldn¡¯t understand why Dexter suddenly


    took an interest in watching thepetition, doing nothing but observing the crowd¡­


    When they first received the news, the higher-ups were so frightened that they wanted to personally


    come and wee him. However, Larry turned down their offer.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, perhaps we should leave first. I¡¯ve arranged for someone to keep watch.¡±


    Dexter remained silent, his face gloomy.


    Josie was not present.


    For two years, he had visited countless ces where she might have been, but she was never there.


    Every hope had turned into disappointment.


    Just then, a sudden quarrel erupted from across the way, attracting a crowd.


    Larry muttered, ¡°What happened over there?¡±


    Dexter looked up.


    Just then, a female voice rang out, ¡°This piece of work, as you¡¯ve mentioned, from itsposition and


    lines, even down to its concept, is indeed perfect. You could even say it¡¯s top-notch.¡±


    It was highly recognizable, somewhat muted, yet as clear as day.


    Dexter immediately recognized the voice.


    Josie had slowly risen, her entire figureing into view.


    ¡°Why did I give him such a low score?¡± she asked, a mocking smile ying on her lips as she looked at


    Lily and the others. ¡°Because this piece is a copy of my work fromst year.¡±


    As she spoke, she turned herptop around to show everyone. Disyed on the screen was her own


    handwriting, the very piece that had won her an award the previous year.


    The crowd gasped in astonishment.


    Lily turned pale. She never expected Josie to be so capable.


    ¡°Lily, I¡¯m not sure whether to say you don¡¯t understand me, or you¡¯re simply too inexperienced.


    Regardless, thank you for yourpliments,¡± Josie said.


    When Lily praised this piece of work, she was essentially praising Josie.


    Josie¡¯s smile widened with a sense of ease and disdain. This pride made her appear even more noble.


    ¡°You!¡±


    Lily hesitated, feeling too embarrassed to speak further in front of so many people. At this point, she


    had be the judge who was unworthy of her position, unable to even detect giarism!


    Everyone was pointing and whispering.


    Lily, in a fit of anger, stomped her high heels and stormed off.


    The organizers, fearing trouble, hurriedly followed to mediate.


    However, Josie simply returned to her original spot as if nothing had happened. She half-propped her


    head andzily continued to review the works.


    She still had long hair, but her style of dress had be more sleek and simple. Her actions and


    words carried more weight than before. Her voice had changed slightly.


    While her appearance hadn¡¯t changed much, Josie¡¯s demeanor had undergone aplete


    transformation.


    She sat there perfectly still, just a hundred meters away, yet it felt as if a chasm separated them.


    Dexter stood motionless, as if the entire world had been upended, his heart pounding relentlessly. In


    that moment, he saw only Josie.


    While she remainedposed and collected, Dexter¡¯s pulse teetered on the brink of spiraling out of


    control.

 Chapter 1053

    Chapter 1053


    Larry was astonished, his hands trembling in surprise. He looked at Dexter¡¯s blood-red eyes in


    disbelief, stuttering, ¡°T-That¡¯s Ms. Warren!¡±


    Josie was oblivious to the emotional turmoil around her. She continued with her work, blending in with


    the crowd.


    It seemed as if she had no connection with Dexter anymore.


    Dexter closed his sore eyes, and when he opened them again, she was still there.


    This time, it was neither an illusion nor a dream.


    He clenched his fist, then released it, restraining himself several times before managing to resist


    stepping forward.


    Larry, however, could no longer contain his excitement. ¡°Let¡¯s go over there, this is too rare an


    opportunity to miss.¡±


    The news from Sumanthova this time was indeed true. Josie was here.


    ¡°No.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was soft. His eyes were only for that woman, the woman who was exceedingly


    polite to others, yet never lost herposure.


    She seemed to be living happily.


    ¡°Find the organizer. Within ten minutes, I want her current information.¡±


    Larry agreed and immediately set off without hesitation.


    Josie didn¡¯t leave. She remained seated in the same spot for over three hours, continuously reviewing


    thepetition entries.


    Dexter, too, stayed for three hours.


    He remained still, observing the woman not far off. The conclusion he could draw was that she was


    truly at ease and happy at that moment.


    At a certain moment, Dexter was on the verge of losing control.


    The information that Larry had gathered revealed that Alice was indeed Josie. Her records had been


    altered, including her name, appearance, and past experiences, which was why she had not been


    discovered for the past two years.


    At that moment, Josie had finished handling the matter at hand and stood up to leave. Her steps were


    light, revealing a hint of anxiety.


    Dexter immediately stood up.


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°Follow her.¡±


    From a distance, Josie hadpletely failed to notice the man¡¯s presence.


    She left the venue, making her way to the entrance where she stood for a while. Every now and then,


    she fiddled with her phone, as if waiting for someone.


    ¡°Alice.¡± A voice echoed.


    Josie looked up.


    Dexter was even more anxious to see who it was.


    A tall man was slowly approaching. In front of him was a little child, who was stumbling toward Josie,


    eximing, ¡°Mommy, I missed you!¡±


    Dexter frozepletely, his pupils slightly constricting.


    Josie squatted down with a smile, taking the child into her arms. ¡°Were you good today?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mommy!¡±


    The man had already walked up to Josie, smiling as he said, ¡°She¡¯s very well-behaved.¡±


    That was unmistakably L, whom Dexter had seen not long ago. He was gentle as amb.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Josie looked up and smiled at him, while the man gently patted her shoulder, asking, ¡°Were you tired


    today?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s just everyday work. I wouldn¡¯t say it¡¯s tiring.¡±


    She didn¡¯t even mention the slightest bit of the difficult situation she had encountered. She¡¯s that


    considerate, huh?


    Larry was so shocked that he covered his mouth, not daring to look at Dexter¡¯s expression beside him.


    Josie obviously had a close rtionship with the man.


    At that moment, sunlight fell upon the three individuals, giving the impression of a blissfully happy


    family of three.


    A tremor coursed through Dexter¡¯s chest, leaving him unable to move for a long while. He could only


    watch as Josie stood up, leading the child away. He could see that it was motherhood that had


    brightened her demeanor.


    Are they married? Do they have children? What about me? Did our past not exist at all?


    Up until now, Dexter realized just how wrong his past actions were. He had deeply hurt her heart, which


    was why she had moved on to a new life so quickly.


    All of this felt like karma. Two yearster, on this exact day, he finally got his revenge.


    A suffocating feeling spread from his heart, inflicting unbearable pain.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± Larry struggled to find the appropriate words to express himself.

 Chapter 1054

    Chapter 1054


    Dexter closed his eyes for a moment, his voice turning hoarse as he asked, ¡°Who did you say this man


    was?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s one of the coborators, L Keller from Keller Group of Rivodia, whose main business is


    architectural design¡­¡± Larry had never anticipated this. He had absolutely no idea that Josie had been


    involved in this all along for the past two years.


    ¡°Hand me the detailed information,¡± Dexter ordered.


    He cast a final nce in Josie¡¯s direction. As she walked further and further away, she boarded the car


    with her child, never once looking back, just as she had been doing for the past two years.


    Josie bid farewell to L. He invited her to visit Wavery if she had the chance, to see the venue he


    had personally designed. She didn¡¯t give a definite answer, only wishing him a smooth journey.


    After giving Grape a hug, L then embraced Josie. Before parting, he said, ¡°Think carefully about


    what I saidst night.¡±


    Josie gently nodded.


    Upon returning home, Grape chattered incessantly about the day¡¯s events. Among them, she


    mentioned that peculiar man again, ¡°He ignored me.¡±


    After hearing all of this, Josie felt somewhat of a headacheing on. This was too much. Josie


    wanted to use this as a teachable moment.


    ¡°Grapes, listen to me. If someone doesn¡¯t like you, don¡¯t force it. Shall we move on? There are plenty of


    handsome uncles and brothers in this world, and even beautiful sisters.¡±


    Grapes seemed to understand, yet not quite, but with guidance, she seemed to have a better


    understanding.


    Meanwhile, Larry had already handed over all of L¡¯s information to Dexter.


    Josie had been working under L with the alias of Alice for a solid two years.


    Suddenly, Dexter remembered that before she left, she had mentioned wanting to live in Rivodia.


    L was from Rivodia.


    Dexter¡¯s hand, clutching the documents, was trembling slightly. It was a feeling of regaining something


    precious after a long separation, but it was apanied by fear.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, what can be confirmed is that L is not married, and neither is Ms. Warren, which


    means¡­¡±


    That child belonged to someone else.


    Dexter put down the documents. ¡°Do you still remember the look in L¡¯s eyes?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Ambiguous, gentle, understanding.¡±


    Regardless of their statuses, it was clear that L had feelings for Josie.


    The fact that Josie epted his gaze in such a manner spoke volumes.


    ¡°Morgan has always been searching for Josie.¡±


    Larry was taken aback. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I wonder if he genuinely couldn¡¯t locate her, or if he was pretending not to,¡± Dexter scoffed coldly.


    Rivodia was Morgan¡¯s territory. Dexter simply couldn¡¯t believe that there had been no trace or clue for


    the past two years.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we¡¯ve found her. What should we do next?¡±


    Not only had Josie been found, but she also had a child.


    ¡°Get out.¡±


    Dexter needed some peace and quiet to think things through.


    Dexter locked himself in his room for an entire night, his thoughts wandering through many things¡ªthe


    past, the future.


    It was more about the future.


    The following day, as the attendant came to deliver the meal, he was intercepted by Larry. Just as he


    began to speak, the door swung open from the inside. Dressed casually, Dexter said, ¡°Start the car.¡±


    The ce they went to was near Josie¡¯s current residence.


    It was a very quiet ce, with hardly any cars around. They parked at a distance, just in time to see


    Josie walking out of the house.


    The child cheerfully followed behind.


    She walked slowly, and Josie would asionally nce back at her, saying, ¡°Today is the first day of


    kindergarten. You must behave, all right?¡±N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡°But Mommy, I don¡¯t want to go to kindergarten, I just want to be with you.¡±


    ¡°Every child has to attend kindergarten.¡±


    That wasn¡¯t entirely true. However, she didn¡¯t have the energy to bnce work and taking care of her


    child. She had no other option but to send Grape to daycare, and she was unsure if Grape would be


    able to adjust.


    Upon hearing this, Grape could only nod and inquire, ¡°Is the kindergarten teacher pretty?¡±


    Josie was speechless.

 Chapter 1055

    Chapter 1055


    ¡°Follow them,¡± Dexter whispered.


    Two years had passed, and Josie had be quite skilled at driving. She drove all the way to the front


    door of a daycare center. Soon, a teacher came out to meet her. After exchanging a few pleasantries,


    Grape was taken inside.


    Josie watched as Grape¡¯s figure grew smaller, once again experiencing the pain of parting ways.


    Perhaps there would be countless instances like this in the future.


    After Grape disappeared from her sight, Josie let out a deep sigh and then got back into the car,


    retracing her route.


    She walked past the car parked by the roadside, unaware of the person inside.


    Larry asked, ¡°Should we go in now?¡±


    Dexter stared straight ahead. ¡°Wait for two hours.¡±


    The child had just started attending daycare and needed time to adjust. Suddenly taking her away


    could cause psychological trauma, and she might not want to go back to school in the future.


    It wasplicated because having a child meant considering many things.


    Larry nced at the man in the rearview mirror, hesitating before finally speaking. ¡°Sir, I thought long


    and hard about it yesterday. There¡¯s a high chance that Ms. Warren¡¯s child might¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t dare to continue speaking, and Dexter didn¡¯t pick up the conversation either.


    The car had been parked for two hours. As soon as the time came, Dexter got out of the car and


    walked straight into the building.


    The daycare was filled with children, their cries andints never ceasing. Each child had a


    dedicated teacher watching over them. Yet, Grape sat alone in a corner, quietly stacking blocks. She


    was unusually quiet for a child her age.


    Dexter stood in the corner, gazing at her for a long time.


    Inside the venue.


    As soon as the clock struck the hour, Josie finished her shift and headed straight for the daycare.


    However, as soon as she stepped in, she asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Grape?¡±


    ¡°Grape? Wasn¡¯t she already picked up by her father?¡± The teacher was quite surprised.


    Josie was even more astonished. ¡°What are you saying? What father?¡±


    The teacher was taken aback. ¡°A man who imed to be her father came to pick her up. She also


    called him ¡®Dad¡¯. After verifying his identification, we let him take her away.¡±


    What father?


    Josie had an unsettling premonition. Her entire being was in disarray. She wondered, in this world, who


    could possibly make Grape willingly call him father.


    Could it be the strange man she mentioned a couple of days ago?


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Josie quickly asked, ¡°What is the name on his identification?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t quite recall. Oh, hisst name is Russell.¡±


    Josie froze in ce, as if struck by a bolt of lightning.


    How could it be¡­ How could it possibly be him¡­


    She turned and ran out, but once she got in the car, she had no idea where to go. Her hands were


    shaking, and as she looked at her pale face in the mirror, she found herself unable to catch her breath


    for a long time.


    Her trembling intensified, making it difficult for her to calm down.


    After a long while, she finally calmed down, stepped on the gas, and drove off.


    Upon returning to the hotel venue, she ran into a fellow judge. ¡°Alice, why are you back again?¡± he


    asked.


    Josie didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she quickened her pace, walking as swiftly as the wind.


    ¡°That¡¯s strange¡­¡± He scratched his head.


    Not far away, Lily also witnessed this scene. She immediately looked puzzled and followed Josie.


    Josie was always punctual, never lingering a moment longer than necessary at work. So why had she


    returned today, and with such disarray in her steps? It seemed as though something had happened.


    Josie went straight to the hotel¡¯s courtyard, her face expressionless. She found the ce by following


    the route she remembered.


    I had been to this ce before, but I hadn¡¯t entered.


    Standing at the door, she took several deep breaths in an attempt to calm her racing heart.


    She knocked on the door, but there was no response. With a gentle push, she opened it, revealing the


    bustling and magnificent scene inside.


    The gate was also left ajar.


    She carefully observed her surroundings, never slowing her pace as she moved forward. As she


    entered, she noticed a figure standing by the window.

 Chapter 1056

    Chapter 1056


    Josie¡¯s gaze halted, and she couldn¡¯t take another step forward.


    The familiar scent of sandalwood filled the air. She wondered why it felt so familiar.


    It was Dexter. It was really him.


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes involuntarily. She had imagined their reunion hundreds, even


    thousands of times.


    But who would have thought it would turn out like this¡­


    ¡°Josie, you¡¯ve finally arrived¡­¡± a slightly hoarse voice echoed.


    Even though he had his back to her, he seemed certain that she was the one who had arrived.


    Josie¡¯s hands silently clenched together at her sides. She struggled to control her emotions and simply


    asked, ¡°Where is Grape? Where have you taken her?¡±


    Dexter turned around, their eyes meeting. Even though they were only a few dozen meters apart, it felt


    as if there was an insurmountable chasm between them.


    Two years had passed¡­


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Some things seemed to have changed, while others remained the same.


    ¡°Grape¡­ Who?¡± Dexter found his voice again, staring at her in bewilderment as he asked


    straightforwardly.


    Although he had guessed the answer, he still longed for confirmation from her.


    ¡°Grape is my daughter. She has nothing to do with you,¡± Josie denied directly.


    Lying was unbearable, but she remained steadfast in her resolve.


    Little did she know, her words struck him like a silent thunderbolt, causing a sharp pain in the left side


    of Dexter¡¯s chest.


    ¡°Is that true?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice choked up a bit as he asked, his gaze seeming distant.


    His memory took him back to two hours ago¡­


    ¡°Mr. Russell, aren¡¯t you going over?¡± Larry noticed Dexter staring nkly at Grape not far away and


    couldn¡¯t help but remind him.


    Dexter was slightly taken aback.


    He could feel the erratic rhythm of his own heartbeat, a mix of apprehension and anticipation. ¡°Do you


    think she¡­¡± He paused. Could she really be¡­ our daughter?


    Dexter didn¡¯t continue speaking.


    Larry, however, understood his thoughts. He nced at Grape, then said, ¡°Mr. Russell, you already


    have the answer in your heart, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Dexter walked up to Grape.


    At that moment, she was methodically stacking blocks, her focused expression bearing a striking


    resemnce to Dexter.


    ¡°Grape?¡±


    He gently called out to her.


    He was afraid of disturbing her.


    Upon hearing that, Grape lifted her gaze. The moment she saw Dexter, a hint of surprise and delight


    emerged in her eyes. ¡°Mr. Russell, howe you¡¯re here?¡±


    Her soft, mellow voice caused an involuntary tremor in Dexter¡¯s heart.


    A surge of kinship, born of shared blood, welled up within him. For a moment, it left the man somewhat


    at a loss.


    ¡°Grape, don¡¯t call me Mr. Russell. I¡¯m your daddy.¡±


    ¡°Daddy?¡±


    Grape paused in whatever she was doing. Her round, big eyes brightened up, clearly revealing a look


    of delight.


    Her little mouth moved as she spoke. ¡°Mr. Russell, have you epted my suggestion? Are you willing


    to be my daddy?¡±


    Dexter gently shook his head, reaching out to pat her little head. The small girl was incredibly adorable,


    as if she could melt his entire heart. ¡°I¡¯m not just acting as your daddy, I¡­ I am your daddy.¡±


    Grape wore a confused expression.


    She was clearly somewhat skeptical, even though she was quite fond of the handsome man before her.


    Just as she hesitated, Dexter pulled out a wallet from the left pocket of his jacket. Inside, there was a


    slightly yellowed photograph.


    ¡°This¡­ is a photo of your mommy and my marriage certificate,¡± he said, referring to one of the few


    pictures he had found of him and her mother together.


    Over the past two years, he had carefully preserved it, taking it with him wherever he went.

 Chapter 1057

    Chapter 1057


    His intention in doing so was to ease the overwhelming pain that spread through his heart during


    moments of longing.


    Despite their divorce, Josie would always hold the position of his wife deep within his heart.


    Dexter approached her cautiously, stopping just half a step away from her.


    ¡°Do you still n on deceiving me?¡± He stared intensely at Josie, his gaze burning as if he was trying to


    see through her.


    Josie turned her face away, resisting his approach. She simply said, ¡°Dexter, we are already divorced.


    We have no connection anymore¡­ Please return my daughter to me.¡±


    ¡°Is she really not rted to me? Josie! Actually, finding out the truth is quite simple. With the


    advancements in modern technology, conducting a DNA test wouldn¡¯t take much time¡­¡±


    However, he chose not to rely on technological means.


    That was simply because he trusted his intuition. In other words, he was more inclined to believe that


    Josie would not choose to be with someone else in the short time they were apart.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°Enough.¡± Josie took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯ve been with someone else for a while now, and you have


    absolutely no involvement in this matter.¡±


    Huh!


    Dexter thought he was no longer capable of feeling pain, but upon hearing those words, it felt as if a


    needle had pricked his heart. ¡°Someone else? Is it L?¡±


    Josie was taken aback.


    Surprisingly, he knew about L. It seemed that he had extensively investigated her prior to this.


    ¡°Yes,¡± she stated with certainty.


    In the next moment, Dexter¡¯s piercing eyes darkened. He swiftly seized her wrist, forcing her into a


    corner. An overwhelming sense of oppression surged forth, and Josie felt as if she was on the verge of


    suffocation.


    ¡°Josie¡­ did you really¡ª¡±


    ¡°Baddie, let go of my mommy.¡± Before Dexter could finish his sentence, a childish voice rang out.


    Grape had somehow appeared behind them and had run up to Josie.


    With a forceful push from her small hands, she tried to shove Dexter away. Her strength was not great,


    but Dexter willingly loosened his grip, stepping back two paces in response.


    ¡°Grape¡ª¡± Upon seeing Grape, Josie let out a sigh of relief as if a heavy burden had been lifted.


    She quickly crouched down, pulling the little girl into an embrace.


    The sight of the mother and daughter tightly embracing each other stirred something within Dexter¡¯s


    heart.


    Before he could regain hisposure, Grape stood directly in front of Josie, her eyes ring angrily at


    him. ¡°Baddie, you¡¯re not allowed to hurt my mommy.¡±


    Dexter gazed at the tiny figure before him, his throat bobbing slightly.


    For a moment, he didn¡¯t know how to react.


    ¡°Grape¡­¡±


    Grape scoffed and immediately retorted, ¡°You¡¯re not my daddy. I don¡¯t want you to be my daddy¡­¡± The


    father she yearned for was like a towering tree, protecting her and her mother. He was their iron shield,


    a heroic figure, not a sword that hurt her mother.


    If her father were like this, then she would rather¡­ not have a father at all.


    ¡°Grape¡­¡± Josie¡¯s voice was hoarse as she spoke, her gaze fixed on the tiny figure, her eyes slightly


    moist.


    The situation before her eyes was something she had never anticipated.


    ¡°Mommy¡­ he¡¯s not daddy, is he? Daddy wouldn¡¯t make Mommy angry. Daddy would love Mommy very


    much¡­¡± The room was filled with the innocent words of a child.


    Every word and every sentence struck Dexter¡¯s heart.


    Dexter felt an overwhelming difort deep within his heart, a suffocating sensation that seemed to


    envelop him entirely, causing a raw, throbbing pain.


    I¡¯m not a capable husband.


    I¡¯m certainly far from being apetent father.


    Josie was amazed by how perceptive her daughter, who was just a little over a year old, could be. It


    touched her deeply.


    ¡°Sweetheart, it¡¯s time to go home.¡±

 Chapter 1058

    Chapter 1058


    The room had returned to tranquility long ago, a silence so profound it left one¡¯s heart deste.


    Larry walked over and identally bumped into Lily. He never had a pleasant expression for strangers,


    and he sternly reprimanded, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Lily was taken aback.


    The tension in the air was palpable.


    The person quickly turned around, intending to leave, while apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I went to the wrong


    ce¡­¡±


    Larry¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. Having spent many years in the business world, he had grown


    ustomed to all kinds of underhanded business tactics.


    Regarding Lily¡¯s sudden appearance, he knew it wasn¡¯t a coincidence.


    His gaze swept around, finally resting on her phone.


    Immediately after the signal was given, a security guard stepped forward.


    ¡°What are you going to do¡­ Don¡¯te any closer¡­¡±


    Larry didn¡¯t pay any attention to Lily. He nced at the slightly open door and walked in.


    Larry immediately noticed Dexter, who seemed to have lost his spirit.


    It seemed he was not disturbed by themotion outside.


    Deep down, he understood that Dexter was profoundly distressed, isting himself from the world. ¡°Mr.


    Russell, are you alright?¡±


    Eventually, Dexter¡¯s gaze regained a hint of focus. Looking at the empty room, he murmured to himself,


    ¡°Have they¡­ left?¡±


    His tone was somewhat disheartened.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯ve already found Ms. Warren. Some things take time. There¡¯s no need to rush¡­


    Moreover, there¡¯s now a child between you two. There will always be a chance for change¡­¡± Larry


    hadn¡¯t finished speaking when Dexter seemed to suddenly think of something.


    With determined strides, he headed towards the outside.


    He was in a hurry, as if he was searching for something.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, what are you looking for? Do you need my help?¡± Larry followed closely, asking with


    concern.


    Dexter, however, remained silent,pletely engrossed in his search¡­


    He was like a headless chicken, darting around the room aimlessly.


    The room, originally clean and tidy, had be a chaotic mess due to his rummaging. Just as Larry


    was beginning to feel puzzled, Dexter¡¯s movement suddenly came to a halt.


    His gaze also came to a halt.


    Following the direction he was looking, there was a tiny piece of candy lying quietly on the table¡­


    Unbidden, the soft, sweet words of Grape echoed in his ears. ¡°Mr. Russell, Mommy says eating candy


    makes you happy. You should be happy. You look so unpleasant when you frown¡­¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    He reached out and held the tiny piece of candy in his palm as if it were a precious treasure.


    This was the candy his daughter had given him, yet he had almost lost it¡­


    When Josie returned home, she seemed somewhat disoriented and distraught. Despite being young,


    Grape could tell that her mother was not in a good mood that day.


    ¡°Mommy¡­¡± She reached out her little hand, tightly gripping Josie¡¯s hand.


    Josie lowered her gaze, looking at Grape, who seemed to be filled with anticipation.


    She knew there were certain things that she wanted to conceal but could no longer be hidden¡­


    ¡°Grape¡­ I have something to tell you.¡± Josie stared intently at her adorable face with a rare


    seriousness.


    Grape pursed her lips.


    It seemed as if she had understood something.


    ¡°Mommy, I don¡¯t want Daddy anymore¡­ Can you please not be upset?¡±


    Josie was amazed by the child¡¯s perceptiveness. ¡°Grape, do you know¡­ that he¡¯s your daddy?¡±


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She questioned with a hint of uncertainty.


    The little girl nodded heavily.


    ¡°The photograph, your wedding photograph,¡± Grape articted clearly.


    In an instant, Josie understood.


    So that¡¯s the case.


    No wonder Grape willingly called him ¡°Daddy¡±¡­


    ¡°But¡­ I don¡¯t like Daddy,¡± Grape said sadly. Initially, she had a strong affection for Dexter, but¡­ her


    mother became upset because of him.

 Chapter 1059

    Chapter 1059


    She didn¡¯t want to like her father.


    ¡°Grape¡­¡± Josie held her, her words tinged with a hint of sorrow. ¡°Don¡¯t dislike Daddy¡­¡±


    Adult matters should not involve children, after all.


    Grape pursed her lips. ¡°But Daddy¡­ he doesn¡¯t like me either.¡± Her tone could hardly conceal her


    sadness and despair.


    Josie understood what Grape was thinking.


    After all these years, she, as a mother, had ultimately failed her.


    ¡°If I have to choose between Mommy and Daddy, then I¡­¡± Grape¡¯s eyes were filled with determination


    as she hugged Josie¡¯s neck. ¡°I choose Mommy¡­¡±


    A warmth spread through Josie¡¯s heart, and tears began to fall uncontrobly.


    ¡°Grape¡ª¡± Josie held her quietly.


    Little did she know, at that very moment, Dexter¡¯s car had already pulled up at the door downstairs.


    As the car engine turned off, the car window slid down, revealing the man¡¯s profound profile. His brows


    were tightly knitted as if burdened with worries he couldn¡¯t untangle.


    The unfathomable eyes gazed at the house, illuminated by light.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, this is Grape¡¯s birth certificate¡­¡± Larry handed over the information he had found.


    Although he had already confirmed his suspicions deep down, his heart still ached slightly when he


    saw the date of Grape¡¯s birth.


    It¡¯s hard to imagine.


    Over the past two years, she had been living in a foreignnd, raising her child alone. Her days were


    far from easy.


    ¡°You can go back first¡­¡± Dexter instructed.


    There were certain things that he had to face alone.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± Larry expressed with some concern.


    Dexter waved his hand dismissively, and Larry understood his meaning. Without dy, he opened the


    car door and stepped out¡­


    Josie stayed with Grape, coaxing the little girl to sleep until she fell asleep.


    The strength in Josie¡¯s hands finally lessened. She gentlyid the little one down on therge bed,


    looking at the face still marked with tear stains. An involuntary sense of remorse welled up within her.


    ¡°Grape, it¡¯s me who owes you an apology¡ª¡± Josie murmured to herself.


    After tucking in Grape, she stealthily slipped out of the room.


    Nightfall descended.


    Josie stood alone on the vast balcony. The evening breeze brought a hint of chill, causing the loose


    strands of hair at her temples to flutter in the wind. This awakened Josie considerably.


    As she took a quick nce, her gaze involuntarily settled on the car downstairs.


    Josie¡¯s heart began to pound as if she had already guessed something.


    The man gazed at her through the car window, their eyes meeting in a heated exchange. His intense


    stare seemed as if it could see right through her. Overwhelmed, Josie quickly averted her gaze and


    hurriedly retreated into the safety of the house.


    Dexter¡­ How did he manage to find this ce?


    Right at that moment, the phone in her pocket rang.


    It was a call from L.


    The screen disyed his slightly travel-worn face.


    ¡°I¡¯ve arrived in Rivodia¡­ Alice.¡±


    L seemed like a husband on a business trip, reassuring his wife of his safety.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s good that you¡¯ve arrived.¡±


    ¡°It should be nighttime in Sumanthova now. Howe you haven¡¯t rested yet, given howte it is?¡±


    When Josie thought of Dexter downstairs, her emotions became somewhat unstable, and it was clear


    that she was distracted.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Alice?¡±


    Regaining herposure, Josie stammered, ¡°No¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡± She then politely added, ¡°You¡¯ve been


    traveling all day. You should be the one resting.¡±


    L raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Alice, are you feeling upset? Is it because work isn¡¯t going well, or has Grape been mischievous


    again? Or could it be¡­ because I left Sumanthova?¡±


    L¡¯s words carried a yful yet sincere tone.


    Josie was surprised.


    L¡¯s words from the previous day still lingered in her mind, and she knew exactly what he was


    thinking.


    However, she couldn¡¯t feel even a fraction of the same emotions towards him.


    ¡°I¡¯m not in a bad mood. It¡¯s just that the darkness of the night is affecting my concentration.¡±

 Chapter 1060

    Chapter 1060


    L clearly didn¡¯t believe her exnation.


    Two years had passed, and he hade to understand her to some extent.


    ¡°Have a piece of candy. Maybe the sweetness will momentarily help you forget your troubles,¡± L


    suggested, as if coaxing a child.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°I¡¯m not a child¡­¡±


    L was intensely watching Josie on the screen. Every frown and smile of hers was so captivating


    in his eyes that he momentarily lost himself in a trance.


    Josie noticed his unusual behavior and quickly found an excuse. ¡°You must have work to attend to.


    Let¡¯s not chat now.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t reciprocate even the slightest bit of L¡¯s enthusiasm. All she could do was assert her


    stance with a firm attitude.


    L was always aware of that.


    The two exchanged a few pleasantries before hanging up.


    Josie tightly clutched her phone, peering out the window. It seemed as if the car outside had a grudge


    against her, never once leaving. Josie drew the curtains, blocking out all lines of sight.


    Lying in bed, Josie tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep.


    Her mind was filled with thoughts of Dexter¡­


    Ah!


    Josie, you¡¯re truly beyond help.


    That night, Josie stayed awake the entire time.


    The following day.


    Josie rose early from bed, drawing back the curtains. In her sight was the familiar car. Dexter, who was


    in the car, had kept vigil here all night without sleep. Josie didn¡¯t want to face him.


    She had no choice but to pretend she hadn¡¯t seen him.


    Inside the room.


    Grape turned over and couldn¡¯t find her mother, growing somewhat anxious. With a sudden wail, she


    burst into tears. ¡°Mommy!¡±


    Upon hearing the sound of crying, Josie pushed open the door in a hurry.


    ¡°Grape!¡±


    The moment she saw Josie, Grape¡¯s crying abruptly ceased. Through her tear-filled eyes, she looked


    at her, then reached out her hand. ¡°Hug.¡±


    ¡°Good morning, baby.¡±


    Josie held Grape and nted a kiss on the little girl¡¯s cheek.


    Today was the second day of the Golden Key Awards, and Josie was still busy with work.


    Consequently, she had no choice but to take Grape to daycare.


    ¡°Grape, you must listen to your teacher at kindergarten¡­ You can¡¯t behave like yesterday, leaving


    without my permission¡­ It worries me¡­¡±


    Grape nodded understandingly. ¡°I understand, Mommy.¡±


    Josie was greatlyforted.


    As she carried Grape and left, Dexter saw them both. He struggled to restrain the impulse to approach


    them, his gaze firmly fixed on her, fearing she might disappear from his sight again.


    He watched as Josie ced Grape in the child¡¯s seat, then promptly drove off.


    Dexter hurriedly followed.


    He consistently maintained a certain distance from Josie¡¯s car. Josie wasn¡¯t oblivious to his presence.


    She simply chose to ignore him¡­


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Quickly, Josie drove the car to the front of the daycare center.


    Before long, a teacher came out to greet them.


    Due to the unexpected circumstances yesterday, Josie made a point to greet the teacher and


    exchange a few pleasantries. Soon, Josie had to leave.


    However, she had only taken two steps when she stopped.


    Turning around, she looked in Dexter¡¯s direction. Their eyes met, and even through the car window,


    Dexter could still feel the distance in her gaze.


    Without any hesitation, Josie turned around, not sparing a nce at Dexter, and left on her own ord.


    Early in the morning, Larry received a very important phone call from back home.


    After hearing the content, Larry¡¯s face turnedpletely pale. ¡°Are you telling the truth?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t clear what the other party had said.


    The usuallyposed Larry had clearly lost hisposure. He quickly added, ¡°No matter what, keep


    things steady until I return to handle it.¡±


    Then, he ended the call.


    Larry assigned some tasks to his assistant and reserved a ticket for the earliest avable flight to his


    home country.

 Chapter 1061

    Chapter 1061


    After packing his bags, Larry was about to leave when he ran into Mallory.


    ¡°Where are you going so early in the morning?¡±


    Larry didn¡¯t provide much detail. He simply replied, ¡°There¡¯s something I need to take care of back


    home¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you going back to your country?¡±


    Larry nodded and paused for a moment, as if he had something else on his mind.


    ¡°By the way¡­ there¡¯s something I need to tell you. Josie is in Sumanthova.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Mallory¡¯s face showed surprise as she asked incredulously, ¡°Have you seen her?¡±


    Larry nced at his watch. ¡°It¡¯s hard to exin in a short time. I have to go now¡­ I need a favor. Ms.


    Warren is currently hesitant about Mr. Russell. If you happen to see her, please speak positively about


    Mr. Russell¡­ Their rtionship can¡¯t handle any more difficulties¡­ I¡¯m counting on you.¡±


    Mallory still wanted to say something, but Larry had already hurriedly left. As she watched him walk


    away, Mallory couldn¡¯t help but mutter under her breath, ¡°What on earth? He didn¡¯t even exin things


    clearly¡­¡±


    The mere thought of Josie being in Sumanthova made Mallory restless.


    Josie had just arrived at the second round of auditions for the Golden Key Awards. She parked her car


    in the garage.


    Unexpectedly, a red sedan suddenly swerved, blocking her view.


    Josie furrowed her brows slightly and honked her horn.


    The car window across from her rolled down, revealing a familiar face looking directly at her.


    Josie was taken aback.


    A flicker of surprise suddenly appeared in her eyes, mixed with a hint of delight.


    Across from her, Mallory¡¯s lips formed a captivating smile.


    ¡°After hearing from Larry that you¡¯re in Sumanthova, I came to find you. You left without a word back


    then. Do you still consider me a friend?¡±


    The two old friends finally reunited.


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    When she left initially, she didn¡¯t say goodbye to Mallory, who clearly held some resentment.


    Mallory was indeed somewhat angry.


    Upon seeing Josie, Mallory realized that her worries over the past two years were ultimately


    unnecessary. It seemed¡­ Josie was doing quite well.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time¡­¡± Josie nced at Mallory, feeling as if time hadn¡¯t left any marks on her. Two


    years had passed, and she had visibly matured.


    She exuded confidence, resembling a strong woman who appeared tough on the outside but was


    resilient on the inside.


    Mallory let out a cold huff. ¡°Don¡¯t think I will forgive you¡­¡±


    The two of them chose a cafe and settled down near the window.


    Although Mallory was angry at Josie for leaving without saying goodbye, she also understood Josie¡¯s


    helplessness.


    Given the circumstances back then, perhaps it was the right choice for Josie to leave after all.


    ¡°When Larry first told me you¡¯re in Sumanthova, I found it hard to believe. These past two years, you


    cut off all contact, which made me quite worried¡­ How have you been these past two years?¡±


    Stirring her coffee, Josie nodded with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve been well.¡±


    ¡°Have you¡­ seen Dexter?¡±


    When Dexter was mentioned, Josie didn¡¯t show much emotion. She remained calm, as if she was


    talking about someone insignificant.


    She acknowledged, ¡°We¡¯ve met¡­¡±


    Mallory was somewhat taken aback by her reaction.


    Two years had passed¡­


    It seems like she has already moved on¡­


    However, when it came to Dexter¡­ Thinking back on what she had witnessed and heard over the past


    two years as an observer, Mallory couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Two years is a significant period of time, during which numerous events unfolded.


    One notable example is the remarkable transformation that took ce in Wavery. The previously


    chaotic and disorganized state of affairs has now been reced by a sense of rity. The Russell


    family has emerged as a prominent force, with Dexter assuming the role of an undisputed leader in


    Wavery.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 1062

    Chapter 1062


    ¡°When Mark and udia found out that you were leaving, they were deeply affected, especially


    udia. I heard she even fell ill afterward¡­¡±


    A glimmer of suspicion crossed Josie¡¯s eyes. Hadn¡¯t they given me ten million to get rid of me?


    Why bother putting on such a pretense and staging this melodrama of sorrow?


    ¡°However, there¡¯s no need to worry. With Laura now supporting the Olsen family, everything is running


    smoothly.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t think much of it. ¡°That¡¯s good, then¡­¡±


    Seeing her reaction, Mallory finally asked, ¡°Josie, it¡¯s been so long since everything happened. Haven¡¯t


    you ever thought about returning to the Olsen family?¡±


    Two years ago, Josie was unwilling.


    Now, as a mother herself, her mindset had indeed changed. However, she still found it impossible to let


    go of the grudges from her past.


    She shook her head.


    ¡°Things are going well as they are now.¡±


    When it came to Justin, Mallory was at a loss for words.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°No one has heard from Justin in the past two years. His whereabouts remain a mystery.¡±


    Josie wore a bewildered expression.


    He¡¯s still holding a grudge against me.


    Josie¡¯s hand involuntarily tightened. Paul¡¯s disappearance had strained the rtionship between the


    siblings.


    Over the past two years, she had never given up on her search for Paul.


    She stayed in Sumanthova primarily because traces of Paul had once been found there. However,


    even after searching for two years amidst the vast sea of people, there was still no sign of him.


    She had a lengthy conversation with Mallory.


    As she was about to leave, Mallory paused in deep thought before saying, ¡°Josie, what¡¯s in the past is


    ultimately in the past. Regardless, I¡¯m truly happy to have seen you. However, I firmly believe that one


    should always look forward.¡±


    These words pierced Josie¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Thank you, Mallory.¡±


    Josie reached out and embraced her.


    ¡°Go back to Wavery.¡±


    Josie did not respond, neither affirming nor denying.


    Mallory couldn¡¯t guess what was on her mind.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been in Sumanthova for a while now. Feel free to call me anytime if you need anything. My


    number has always remained the same.¡±


    Josie nodded with a smile.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Despite this, Mallory was still uneasy. ¡°Give me your address. I¡¯m afraid I might not be able to find you


    After Mallory left, Josie stood alone in the same spot for a long time, seemingly lost in thought.


    Memories yed out in her mind like a movie, those deliberately suppressed recollections resurfacing,


    leaving Josie feeling somewhat agitated and confused.


    She walked along the street, brushing past the pedestrians who were mostly in a hurry.


    The affairs of the past were nothing more than a dream.


    Meanwhile¡­


    In the daycare center. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir. Grape¡¯s mother has instructed us not to let you get close to Grape


    ¡ª¡±


    However, the teacher had barely finished speaking when the principal hurried over, his face full of


    eagerness. ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡±


    As Dexter had hoped, he was brought to the nursery. From a distance, he saw Grape sitting quietly in


    the corner, ying with the Lego in her hand. After Grape made a mistake for the umpteenth time, her


    brows furrowed tightly¡­


    The principal followed his gaze, looking over.


    He also understood the purpose of Dexter¡¯s visit here.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, Grape is our youngest child. Despite her tender age, she is remarkably intelligent, clearly


    standing out from her peers¡­¡±


    Dexter listened intently as the principal eloquently narrated.


    He paid close attention to every tiny detail. When it came to his daughter¡¯s development, he desired a


    thorough understanding of every aspect, regardless of its importance or insignificance.

 Chapter 1063

    Chapter 1063


    ¡°Since Grape is here, thank you for taking care of her.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re too kind. This is simply part of our duties.¡±


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, Dexter then approached Grape.


    A tall figure stood before her, but Grape waspletely unaware. In that moment, she was deep in


    thought, holding a Lego piece. Dexter extended his hand, pointing to a specific location. ¡°Try cing it


    here¡­¡±


    When Josie returned to the scene at the Golden Key Awards, she was met with a sarcastic remark.


    ¡°Some people these days are bing more and more arrogant, with no sense of time at all.¡±


    It was Lily.


    She looked at Josie with a face full of disdain, as if a surge of anger welled up from the depths of her


    eyes, yearning to consume Josie.


    Josie didn¡¯t pay her any mind. She simply offered a polite ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡± to everyone.


    Following that, she promptly immersed herself in her work.


    When Lily saw that her remark was ignored without causing any reaction, the imbnce in her heart


    surged once again.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for her discovery by Larry that day, she would have already obtained the evidence to


    ruin Josie. At this very moment, Josie wouldn¡¯t be standing here unharmed.


    But now, she no longer had any evidence.


    As Lily let out a cold huff, a calcting glint shed across her gloomy face.


    Regardless, she was determined to drive Josie out of the panel of judges.


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    There were numerous entries in the second round of the excellencepetition. Under the unanimous


    decision of the panel of judges, the finalists who would proceed to the finals were selected.


    After finishing her work, Josie was preparing to go home. As soon as she reached the underground


    parking lot, a figure darted out, blocking her path. ¡°Ms. Alice, could you please wait a moment?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    She didn¡¯t recognize the man before her. ¡°May I ask who you are?¡±


    The man revealed a hint of a smile, his gaze radiating friendliness. ¡°Ms. Alice,¡± he began, ¡°I am a fan of


    yours. I have seen almost all of your designs. Whether it¡¯s the design concept or the design pattern,


    they are all top-notch. You have always been the role model I look up to¡­¡±


    In response to the man¡¯s praise, Josie politely replied, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Alice, I also registered for the Golden Key Awards. The Saint Dezburg Bridge was my design¡­¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie had some recollection.


    The design of this artwork was grand and majestic, and it had already been shortlisted for the finals.


    ¡°Your design is quite innovative, a rare gem among numerous works. If you give it your all in the final


    round, you¡¯re certain to achieve great results.¡±


    The man chuckled, lifting his head to survey his surroundings. Finally, he pulled out a thick envelope


    from his pocket. ¡°Ms. Alice, I hope you can vote for me during the final round¡­¡±


    Unspoken rules?


    There was no need for guessing. Josie already knew what was inside the envelope.


    The expression on her face instantly becameposed, turning incredibly serious.


    ¡°Fairpetition is the greatest respect for this contest, and sincerity in one¡¯s work is best reflected by


    a clear mind. If one¡¯s focus is diverted to devious tactics, it¡¯s impossible to create a good piece of


    work.¡±


    With that, Josie turned around and left.


    The man, however, pursued her, stopping her without any exnation. Regardless of whether Josie


    would refuse, he directly stuffed the envelope into Josie¡¯s hands.


    It was a hefty stack, carrying some weight.


    Josie¡¯splexion hadpletely changed.


    Without any hesitation, she returned the item to him and sternly said, ¡°Bribing the judges can lead to


    disqualification. If you don¡¯t take it back, I¡¯ll have no choice but to report you to themittee.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡ª¡±


    Upon hearing her speak in such a manner, the man couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of guilt.


    ¡°Please ept my sincere apologies, Ms. Alice.¡±

 Chapter 1064

    Chapter 1064


    Upon realizing that he was only in his early twenties, Josie concluded that he must have recently


    entered the profession. At such a young age, he should have a promising future and great prospects


    ahead of him.


    Unable to bear seeing him go astray, she kindly advised, ¡°As designers, we must possess a sincere


    heart and evesting enthusiasm. Only then can we progress further on this path. The enjoyment of


    thepetition process is more important than the oue itself.¡±


    Having said that, Josie ignored him, opened the car door, and got in.


    She started the car and drove off into the distance.


    After Josie had left, Lily emerged from a nearby corner. She looked at the photo on her phone with


    great satisfaction, unable to hide the triumph in her eyes.


    epting bribes was a major taboo for the panel of judges.


    With this evidence, Josie could never defend herself.


    Alice, you¡¯re destined to be out of the game.


    ¡°Grape¡¯s Mommy, you¡¯re here¡­¡± As soon as Josie arrived at the daycare, the teacher took the initiative


    to greet her.


    ¡°Where is Grape?¡±


    The teacher hastily replied, ¡°In the ssroom¡­¡±


    Josie, feeling somewhat impatient, started to walk over. However, uponying her eyes on something,


    she abruptly halted her steps¡­


    Within her field of vision, Dexter was amusing himself with Grape while ying with her toys. The man


    was still wearing yesterday¡¯s clothes, and the wrinkles on his shirt were quite noticeable.


    On his slightly weary face, there was a hint of joy that came from bing a father for the first time.


    The interaction between the two, one adult and one child, was incredibly harmonious. It seemed as if


    Grape had developed a sense of reliance on Dexter.


    This scene was an image she had imagined countless times before. She could feel the genuine joy


    radiating from Grape.


    I must say, blood ties truly are a magical thing¡­


    Feeling her gaze upon him, Dexter lifted his eyes. As their eyes met, the air seemed to stand still.


    ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    What had to be faced couldn¡¯t be avoided.


    This time, Josie didn¡¯t choose to evade. Instead, she pushed the door open and walked in.


    ¡°Grape¡­¡±


    ¡°Mommy.¡± Grape scampered toward her and promptly wrapped her arms around her mother¡¯s thigh.


    Josie¡¯s heart softened. ¡°Have you been well-behaved today? Did you listen to the teacher?¡±


    Grape nodded slightly.


    ¡°Good¡­ good¡­ Be a good girl, Grape. You are truly splendid.¡±


    Dexter stood to one side, his gaze solely focused on the mother and daughter. The longing he had


    suppressed for two years, at this very moment, was overflowing like a flood.


    ¡°Let me take you home.¡±


    Grape¡¯s eyes lit up in an instant. Josie could clearly sense her anticipation¡­ It seemed as though she


    had truly overlooked her daughter¡¯s longing for a father.


    ¡°All right.¡±


    Upon receiving Josie¡¯s response, Dexter breathed a sigh of relief, a glint of brightness appearing in his


    eyes. Grape sneakily nced at Dexter, unable to hide the joy on her small face.


    Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The atmosphere in the car was somewhat quiet.


    Dexter was driving while Josie, holding Grape, settled into the back seat. The air was serene, and no


    one spoke. Josie stared nkly out of the window.


    ¡°Mommy¡­¡± Grape handed her the toy she was holding.


    Regaining her senses, Josie looked at Grape in her arms, her heart melting into a soft puddle.


    The moment they arrived home, Josie, cradling Grape, was the first to get out of the car. Dexter


    hurriedly followed. ¡°Mr. Russell, enough is enough¡­¡±


    Dexter let out a sigh. ¡°I spentst night sleeping in the car. I¡¯m quite exhausted. My neck is a bit sore,


    and I¡¯m just generally ufortable¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s disy of weakness was something Josie had not anticipated.


    As Josie gazed at the tired expression on the man¡¯s face, she couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh of


    eptance. When it came to Dexter, she would always feel a sense of tenderness.

 Chapter 1065

    Chapter 1065


    ¡°You may return to the hotel¡­¡± Josie said stubbornly,pletely disregarding Dexter as she walked


    towards the mansion, holding Grape.


    Being too soft-hearted is a weakness. It needs to be cured!


    Dexter hit a wall, but he had no intention of giving up. Over the past two years, he had experienced life


    without her, and his numb senses had slowly awakened.


    ¡°Going back now would be too far, not very convenient.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t give Josie a chance to refuse,


    taking the lead and walking ahead of her. As they approached the steps, he didn¡¯t forget to caution her.


    ¡°Watch your step¡­¡±


    ¡°This is my home.¡± She was intimately familiar with every brick and tile.


    ¡°I know.¡±


    Josie stopped in her tracks, realizing that the other person had no intention of leaving. Feeling helpless,


    she had no choice but to push the door open. Everywhere she looked, there were Grape¡¯s toys, filling


    the room with aforting warmth.


    In that moment, Dexter noticed the multiplication table hanging on the wall, triggering a memory within


    him.


    ¡°I knew how to recite this when I was very young,¡± he said confidently.


    Josie raised an eyebrow, ncing at Grape in her arms. It seemed that the little one had inherited a


    sensitivity to math.


    ¡°Let me hold the child.¡± Dexter¡¯s gaze fell upon the little bundle of joy. After spending the afternoon


    together, he had noticed that Grape¡¯s previous resistance had disappeared.


    Josie set Grape down, and the little one¡¯s bright eyes gazed at Dexter, anticipation clearly visible.


    ¡°She has plenty of toys, so there¡¯s no need to worry. All you need to do is keep herpany.¡± After


    Josie finished speaking, she turned and went into the kitchen. In no time, she returned with a baby


    bottle in hand.


    ¡°Does she still drink milk?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ Children usually drink milk until they¡¯re three years old.¡±


    Dexter had absolutely no experience with children. His knowledge in this area was practically


    nonexistent. Resigned to this fact, he took out his phone and bought a stack of parenting books online.


    Dexter spent time ying with Grape. Despite their difference in size, they shared an undeniable bond.


    Some things in life couldn¡¯t be exined bymon sense, just like Grape¡¯s unexinable reliance on


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Dexter.


    Eventually, Grape surprisingly fell asleep in Dexter¡¯s arms.


    Josie watched the scene unfold. Warmth welled up in her eyes, tinged with a hint of moisture. She


    tiptoed over and whispered, ¡°Hand her to me¡­¡±


    Dexter felt a pang of reluctance. The delicate, adorable little bundle in his arms had already captured


    his heart.


    ¡°Let me hold her a little while longer.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t resist Dexter, so she had no choice but to let him hold Grape.


    Perhaps it was the fatigue from a sleepless night that suddenly overwhelmed him, or maybe it was the


    restless part of his heart that finally found sce. Dexterpletely rxed. After cing Grape in the


    child¡¯s bed, he, too, leaned against the headboard and fell into a deep sleep.


    The following day.


    When Dexter woke up, the thin nket had slipped off his shoulders. Holding the still-warm nket in


    his hand, a feeling of warmth washed over him. Upon closer inspection, Grape, who had been on the


    small bed, had disappeared without a trace.


    Dexter¡¯s expression faltered. He quickly stood up. ¡°Grape!¡±


    He left the children¡¯s room.


    He scanned the area, but there was no sign of Josie and Grape. A troubling thought crept into his mind.


    Have they slipped away from me again?


    Dexter hurriedly descended the stairs, each disoriented step revealing the turmoil within his heart at


    that moment.


    ¡°Josie, Grape!¡±


    Dexter appeared visibly anxious as he called out the two names, hastily reaching for his phone.


    However, just as he was about to dial a number, he suddenly came to a halt.

 Chapter 1066

    Chapter 1066


    His eyesnded on Josie ying with Grape in the yard. The sight of the two figures, onerge and


    one small, filled his entire field of vision.


    The heaviness in his heart instantly vanished.


    ¡°Hello? Mr. Russell¡­¡± Larry¡¯s voice came through the phone. Dexter snapped back to reality. ¡°It¡¯s


    nothing.¡± He quickly hung up the phone.


    Josie also noticed him.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± The politeness and unfamiliarity in her words made Dexter quite ufortable.


    However, Josie muttered to herself. ¡°I have some things to take care of and will bring Grape to the


    nurseryter.¡± Her words, both explicit and implicit, were a polite way of indicating that it was time for


    her guest to leave.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I can take Grape,¡± Dexter blurted out without hesitation. He walked over to Grape and picked


    her up.


    ¡°Continue with your work. Leave the child to me.¡±


    Josie had a hint of doubt about his suggestion. In her mind, she could already imagine the chaotic


    scene of Dexter trying to handle the children, which she found somewhat amusing.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    Dexter grunted in agreement, his gaze fixed on Grape. ¡°No problem.¡±


    ¡°Okay, then,¡± she agreed.


    Josie had hired a private investigator.


    At ten in the morning, Josie arrived promptly at the agreed-upon location. Not long after, a blond man


    dressed in a ck trench coat and wearing ck-framed sunsses entered.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, sorry for keeping you waiting.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. I just arrived as well.¡±


    After the man took his seat, he got straight to the point. ¡°Ms. Warren, regarding your father¡¯s situation,


    I¡¯ve uncovered some leads¡­¡±


    For the past two years, Josie had been tirelessly searching for any information about Paul¡¯s


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    whereabouts. Despite her efforts, there had been little to no progress. Now that there was news, she


    couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of excitement. ¡°Have you found Paul?¡±


    The man pulled out a thick stack of documents from his bag and promptly handed them over to Josie.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, during this period, I have thoroughly investigated the entire Clusianmunity in


    Sumanthova. Regarding the man with the scar you mentioned, he did indeed appear in Sumanthova


    two years ago. He was smuggled in, and due to theck of a visa, his stay in Sumanthova was short.


    He only stayed for about three months before leaving.¡±


    ¡°What about my father? His disappearance was undoubtedly connected to the scarred man. Since the


    scarred man had been to Sumanthova, could it be that my father was also brought here by him?¡±


    ¡°I checked. He came to Sumanthova alone. There were no signs of Mr. Warren being with him.¡±


    A wave of despair washed over her. ¡°How could this be¡­¡± Initially, it was Scar who had indeed taken


    Paul away!


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel that there was a perplexing mystery, as if the truth of the matter had been


    constantly concealed by someone.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, I understand how you feel. However, all current investigations indicate that the chances of


    Mr. Paul Warren being in Sumanthova are extremely low.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze suddenly dimmed, and a wave of weakness washed over her.


    Seeing this, the man couldn¡¯t help but raise his gaze slightly. ¡°Ms. Warren,¡± he began, ¡°based on my


    years of experience, is it possible that the scar was just a cover-up, a smokescreen to mislead us? We


    might have been heading in the wrong direction from the beginning.¡±


    This statement was not a baseless im from the man, but rather a conclusion he had reached after


    synthesizing information from various sources.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying my dad isn¡¯t in Sumanthova? Then where could he be?¡±


    Josie waspletely lost. For the past two years, she had held onto the belief that Paul had been


    abducted by Scar and that her father was probably in Sumanthova.


    However, it was now bing clear to her that the path she had taken from the start might have been


    incorrect¡­


    ¡°Ms. Warren, there is a chance. Is it possible that Mr. Warren has never left the country and has always


    remained within it¡­¡±

 Chapter 1067

    Chapter 1067


    Have you ever been abroad?


    This statement hit Josie like a heavy blow, intensifying the loneliness in her heart. A feeling of


    powerlessness towards the future overwhelmed her.


    ¡°Ms. Warren¡­¡±


    Josie raised her arm, signaling for a moment of calm.


    ¡°Regardless of the possibility, it¡¯s like finding a needle in a haystack¡­¡± ording to his meaning, the


    chances of finding Paul were extremely low. If someone intentionally hid a person, one could only


    imagine the difficulty of finding them.


    ¡°Perhaps, Paul is no longer in this world.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze became unfocused. ¡°No, that¡¯s impossible.¡±


    With a determined tone and resolute attitude, she dered, ¡°He must still be alive. He must still be


    living well in this world.¡±


    Meanwhile, Mallory found the mansion byparing the address Josie had given her. After confirming


    the house number was correct, she stood outside and pressed the doorbell.


    After waiting for a while, the sound of footsteps gradually approached. Then, the door swung open.


    ¡°Josie¡­¡± The words abruptly stopped on her lips as her gaze unexpectedly met Dexter¡¯s figure. The


    man stood casually, exuding the air of a master with his nonchnt demeanor.


    When Mallory saw Dexter, her expression was priceless. Her mouth was open, wide enough to fit an


    egg.


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­ how did you happen to be here?¡±


    Facing Mallory¡¯s shocked expression, Dexter was evidently much moreposed. He looked at her,


    asking, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I be the one asking you that?¡±


    Mallory¡¯s mindgged for a moment before she said, ¡°It¡¯s an address Jo gave me¡­ We just met


    yesterday.¡±


    Dexter then turned to the side. ¡°She¡¯s not home. If you¡¯re waiting for her, you might as welle in.¡±


    Mallory felt a flutter of unease in her heart, but her feet moved on their own, stepping forward. Just as


    she was about to speak, her gaze involuntarily fell upon the small figure in the courtyard.


    Mallory blurted out, ¡°Whose child is this?¡±


    Upon hearing these words, Grape, clutching the toy from the ground, stood up. Her round, innocent


    eyes turned towards Mallory, a hint of recognition in her gaze.


    ¡°Ms. Whiteford¡­¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the child who got lostst time? How did you end up here?¡± Mallory recognized Grape.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your mommy?¡±


    Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Mallory felt her mind spinning, always sensing some kind of connection between them, yet she couldn¡¯t


    quite make sense of it. ¡°Ms. Whiteford¡­ Mommy has gone to work,¡± she said.


    Grape spoke in a very organized manner.


    Mallory looked at the small face, which was the perfect blend of Dexter and Josie. Despite it being their


    first meeting, she felt the child bore some resemnce to Dexter. Now, upon closer inspection, she


    realized the child was practically a carbon copy.


    Could it be¡­ Is this child really Dexter¡¯s child?


    Then there¡¯s only one possibility¡­


    ¡°Is your mommy Jo?¡±


    To everyone¡¯s surprise, Grape gently shook her head. ¡°No, Ms. Whiteford. Everyone calls my mommy


    Alice.¡±


    Alice?


    Mallory was utterly confused.


    Dexter gave a light cough. ¡°Alice, that¡¯s Josie.¡±


    Josie is Grape¡¯s mother! Mallory¡¯s face was filled with disbelief. She quickly squatted down, looking at


    Grape at eye level, her voice filled with excitement as she asked, ¡°Are you Ms. Jo¡¯s child?¡±


    Josie actually has a child, and this child¡­ there¡¯s no need to think further. The answer is obvious.


    This world is surely a mystery.


    If this news were to be discovered by the gossip reporters of Wavery, it would undoubtedly ignite a


    whirlwind of scandal and controversy.


    Mallory found it somewhat difficult toprehend. Her gaze towards Grape softened. ¡°Grape, I am


    Mallory Whiteford, a close friend of your mother¡¯s¡­¡±

 Chapter 1068

    Chapter 1068


    ¡°Please, no matter what, you must help me find my father,¡± Josie pleaded as she pulled out a check


    from her bag and handed it to the man sitting across from her.


    ¡°Could you please¡­ make a trip to Rivodia?¡±


    Since she wasn¡¯t in Sumanthova, it was most likely that she was in Rivodia. Even if there was only a


    glimmer of hope, she would never give up.


    ¡°Ms. Warren, this¡­¡±


    ¡°I still have some matters to attend to at the moment, so I¡¯m unable to return to my homnd for now.


    However, I will be back soon. I trust you with my father¡¯s affairs.¡±


    The man responded softly, ¡°Ms. Warren, rest assured. I will do my best.¡±


    After pocketing the check, the man stood up. ¡°Ms. Warren, I¡¯ll take my leave now. Until we meet again


    in Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Once the man left, Josie sat alone, her gaze fixed on the window, but she couldn¡¯t concentrate.


    After a while, Josie finally stood up, taking her bag with her as she left.


    Josie wandered aimlessly through the streets¡­ Passersby hurried past her. In this unfamiliarnd,


    Josie felt out of ce and alone.


    And yet, driven by her deep obsession, she persevered in this city for two years.


    ¡°Pop, where are you?¡±


    Suddenly¡­


    Josie stopped in her tracks, her eyesnding on a boy ying music not far away on the around


    seventeen or eighteen, holding a worn wooden guitar. His voice was deep and melodious as he


    passionately sang an Uprian song.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Despite theck of attention from the people passing by, Josie stood still, listening to twoplete


    songs. Finally, she took out several banknotes from her bag and ced them in the cardboard box in


    front of the boy.


    She spoke to him in Uprian, saying, ¡°All the best¡­¡±


    Upon seeing this, the boy stopped ying his guitar. His eyes were fixed on Josie. Finally, he spoke in


    Uprian. ¡°Thank you for your encouragement, beautifuldy. May all the good fortune in the world be


    with you¡­¡±


    Josie left with a smile, leaving behind a striking silhouette.


    When Josie arrived home, she pushed open the door. Instead of seeing Dexter as she expected, her


    eyes immediatelynded on Mallory, who was holding Grape while engaged in a video call.


    On the other end of the phone, half of Calvin¡¯s face was visible, as he attentively observed Grape


    through the video. ¡°Where did this childe from?¡±


    Mallory kept him in suspense.


    ¡°Seeing how adorable this child is, I thought I¡¯d let you have a look. What do you think¡­ Isn¡¯t she truly


    adorable? Come on, baby, say Mr. Barrett¡­¡±


    Grape followed suit, murmuring, ¡°Mr. Barrett¡­¡±


    Calvin agreed with a hum. He thought the child was indeed very cute. However, the more he looked,


    the more he felt a sense of familiarity with the child.


    It seemed as if¡­


    ¡°Little one, what¡¯s your name? How old are you? Who are your parents?¡± Calvin asked a series of


    questions, and doubt began to grow in his heart.


    Upon hearing this, Josie couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    Mallory, however, spoke without hesitation. ¡°Stop prying. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll be shocked if I tell you.¡±


    Calvin became even more curious.


    ¡°What is this child¡¯s background? Why do I feel she resembles Dexter more and more as I look at her?¡±


    As soon as these words left his mouth, Calvin himself was taken aback.


    He waspletely unaware that he had unintentionally uncovered the truth.


    ¡°Haha¡­ Can you guess?¡± Mallory¡¯s enigmatic reply left Calvin¡¯s heart yearning to uncover the answer.


    ¡°Mallory, please be direct. Inform me. What is the situation?¡±

 Chapter 1069

    Chapter 1069


    Mallory let out a cold sigh. ¡°Go ahead and guess for yourself¡­¡±


    After speaking, she hung up the phone without hesitation.


    ¡°Hmph, Grape, let¡¯s not tell him. Let¡¯s drive him crazy with suspense.¡±


    As expected, Calvin immediately called back after she hung up the phone.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you answering the phone?¡± Josie asked with a smile. It was then that Mallory realized she


    had returned.


    ¡°Mommy¡­¡± Grape wriggled free from Mallory¡¯s embrace and, like a wisp of smoke, darted toward


    Josie.


    ¡°Good girl, Sweetie.¡±


    Josie picked up Grape and then turned to Mallory. ¡°It¡¯s been two years since west met, and it seems


    there has been quite a bit of progress between you and Calvin.¡±


    When it came to Calvin, Mallory let out a haughty snort. ¡°Stupid man, so stubborn, don¡¯t mention him.¡±


    With that, she rudely rejected Calvin¡¯s call.


    ¡°And you, Jo, you kept such a big secret as having a child from us. If I hadn¡¯te over today, I


    wouldn¡¯t have known. You actually have a daughter¡­¡±


    Josie gazed at Grape in her arms, her eyes filled with tenderness. ¡°By the time I learned of her


    existence, I had already left Wavery for Sumanthova.¡±


    After enduring so many unbearable events from the past, half of Josie¡¯s heart had already been


    hollowed out.


    Back then, she was broken, consumed entirely by a profound sense of loneliness.


    ¡°Grape was like a divine redemption bestowed upon me, providing me with a unique warmth in this


    world.¡±


    Recalling that period of bleak and dark time, Josie felt an exceptional heaviness in both body and mind.


    Fortunately, now she had Grape by her side, serving as a wonderful remedy, healing all her sorrows.


    Mallory reached out and embraced her. ¡°Josie, everything is in the past now¡­¡±


    On the other end of the phone, Calvin was incredibly persistent, as Mallory¡¯s phone never stopped


    ringing.


    ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t answer it?¡± Josie teased.


    Mallory said, ¡°Let him guess. Curiosity killed the cat, after all. Who knows? He might even take a trip to


    Sumanthova for this.¡±


    Josie shook her head with a smile, appearingpletely unsure of what to do with Mallory.


    ¡°Mommy, Ms. Whiteford bought me so many toys. There¡¯s a toy car, a little train, a digger¡­¡± Grape


    proudly introduced her new toys to Josie.


    Josie gently tapped her little nose. ¡°Did you remember to thank Ms. Whiteford?¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Whiteford.¡±


    Mallory¡¯s heart had already been captured by Grape. ¡°You¡¯re wee, Sweetie.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    After Mallory finished speaking, her gaze naturally fell on Dexter, who was standing not far away. His


    affectionate gaze was always fixed on Josie. Mallory then picked up Grape. ¡°Come on. I¡¯ll continue


    ying with you¡­¡±


    With a smile on her face, Josie watched the two of them y together. The next moment, she turned


    around, only to find herself lost in the man¡¯s intense gaze.


    He had heard every single word of their earlier conversation without missing a beat.


    From the moment Josie entered the room, his gaze never left her. ¡°You¡¯re back?¡±


    Josie met his gaze calmly. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard taking care of Grape today.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow, the sadness in his eyes deepening. ¡°Must you be so formal with me? Josie,


    how much longer do you intend to push me away? Hasn¡¯t two years been enough?¡±


    Dexter had initially intended to keep his emotions in check. The person who upied his thoughts day


    and night was right in front of him. He had plenty of time to be with her and take things slow¡­


    However, he had underestimated his own strength. He found himself unable to tolerate Josie¡¯s cold


    indifference and alienation.

 Chapter 1070

    Chapter 1070


    Josie gently shook her head as Dexter pleaded, ¡°Can¡¯t you give me a chance to return to your side, to


    make amends to you and our daughter¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been two years, and it¡¯s time to let go. We can both start fresh, live better lives, and no longer


    torment ourselves over a love that has long since withered away,¡± Josie replied, recounting a fact that


    Dexter did not want to acknowledge. She added, ¡°In this world, there are countless couples who love


    each other but cannot stay together. Why must we insist on being together? The past is behind us. I am


    doing well, and you are not faring poorly either. We should have moved on from those times long ago.¡±


    Dexter felt increasingly unable to understand Josie. ¡°Is this truly what you think?¡± he asked.


    Josie responded, ¡°Otherwise, what? Initially, my selfishness led me to hide the existence of our


    daughter. Now that you know about her, I believe you will make up for theck of fatherly love she has


    experienced. We are simply her parents, and that should be enough¡­¡±


    ¡°Does it really have to be this way?¡± Dexter¡¯s words made Josie¡¯s heart feel somewhat apprehensive.


    Clearly, she too had things she was reluctant to let go of¡­


    Josie pursed her lips and uttered the harshest words in the gentlest tone. ¡°Mr. Russell, you are a good


    man, and you deserve even better. Why insist on dwelling on things that are long past?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t forget the pain from the past. She couldn¡¯t let go, always struggling in her memories.


    Choosing to shut herself off, she firmly imprisoned herself within her own boundaries.


    ¡°Let¡¯s¡­ Let¡¯s end it here,¡± she said.


    Each word and sentence that came out of Josie¡¯s mouth reflected her deepest, most genuine thoughts.


    She wanted to put an end to everything that should have already ended between them.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s gettingte. You should head back¡­ Grape is doing well. Come by when you have


    time to see her and spend some time with her. I believe it will make her very happy.¡±


    Dexter felt the familiar difort in his chest acting up again, as if something was spiraling out of


    control. Subconsciously, he reached out to clutch his left chest, where a stifling sensation made it hard


    for him to breathe.


    ¡°Josie, what if I told you that I want custody of Grape?¡±


    Josie was taken aback. Then, she promptly dered, ¡°Impossible. Grape is my daughter, and no one


    should even think about taking her away from me, including you.¡±


    Upon seeing her flustered demeanor, Dexter realized she was no longer the aloof figure who kept


    everyone at arm¡¯s length. It seemed that Grape was indeed her true weakness.


    ¡°What if I insist on it?¡±


    Josie clenched her teeth tightly, her eyes seemingly about to spit fire. ¡°Then we¡¯ll just have to meet in


    court.¡±


    Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Dexter knew that there was not a shred of falsehood in Josie¡¯s words. She would rather confront him in


    court than choose to forgive him.


    Dexter remained silent, his gaze drifting toward Grape in the distance, his eyes unusually vacant.


    ¡°Josie,¡± he asked, ¡°Have you ever chosen to trust me?¡±


    ¡°The issue of child custody, at the very least, requires consultation with awyer. If possible, I would


    like to try and fight for it.¡± This was thest chance he gave himself.


    If their child was the only thing binding them together in the present, the only link between them, then


    he had to hold on tightly. He feared that if he failed to hold on, he would lose herpletely.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Josie red at him in anger.


    She had never imagined that Dexter would actually go to such lengths. She felt utterly overwhelmed.

 Chapter 1071

    ¡°If you are unwilling to give up custody of Grape, then I can offer you another option.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s words were incredibly tempting. Josie seemed to have realized something, but for the sake of Grape, she held on as if it were a lifeline and asked, ¡°What?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as she said that, Dexter walked towards Josie.


    Finally, he stopped just half a step away from her, his gaze fixed intently on her face. He said, ¡°I can give up my custody rights to Grape, but I have one condition. I want you to live with me for a hundred days, like a normal married couple, to give Grape aplete home. After a hundred days, we will go our separate ways, and I will permanently give up my custody rights to Grape.¡±


    Josie looked at him in disbelief, never having imagined that Dexter would make such an unreasonable demand. Without hesitation, she tly refused, ¡°No way.¡±


    Dexter seemed to have anticipated her response.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. There¡¯s no rush. You can take your time to think it over before giving me an answer. Whenever you¡¯ve figured it out, it¡¯s never toote toe find me. However¡­ don¡¯t take too long to decide.¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze, a hint of hurt hidden deep within her eyes. ¡°Dexter, what do you take me for? Amodity? Or in your eyes, am I merely an object that can be used for trade at any given moment?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not-¡±


    His brows furrowed tightly together, yet he didn¡¯t offer much exnation. ¡°This is merely my suggestion. If you disagree, then I will contact awyer. I am determined to secure custody of our child.¡±


    Having said that, Dexter then took a step and walked away.


    He was afraid that if he stayed any longer, he wouldpletely let his guard down in front of her.


    When Mallory saw the two part ways unhappily, she couldn¡¯t help but approach with concern. ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Josie shook her head, revealing an expression uglier than crying. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Mallory pursed her lips. ¡°Jo, I understand. The events from two years ago are hard for you to let go, but I¡¯m certain that you hold a ce in Mr. Russell¡¯s heart.¡±


    If it had been in the past, Josie might have believed these words, but now, she just foundthem ridiculous.


    ¡°Mallory, it¡¯s impossible for him and me to be together again¡­¡±


    Mallory¡¯s heart jolted. She felt that something was amiss. Over the past two years, those close to Mr. Russell were well aware of his circumstances. She absolutely refused to believe that Dexter had no feelings whatsoever for Josie.


    ¡°Jo, is there some sort of misunderstanding between you two? What exactly did Dexter say to you that has upset you so much? Tell me, we can solve any problem together.¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze.


    ¡°There¡¯s no misunderstanding between us.¡±


    Her heart would never hold any expectations of him again.


    ¡°Jo, listen to me. Actually, these past two years have been quite tough for Mr. Russell, especially after you left. He was like a lost soul, spending his days lying in a hospital bed, staring nkly out of the window. You have no Idea, on the night you left, Mr. Russell, he¡­¡±


    Mallory said a lot in one breath, but Josie didn¡¯t take any of it in. She didn¡¯t want to hear anything about Dexter at the moment, so she simply cut her off, ¡°Mallory, I¡¯m tired¡­¡±


    Upon seeing this, Mallory could only sigh in resignation.


    ¡°Okay, I understand. You should rest early, then¡­¡±


    After Mallory had left, Grape walked up to Josie. She tugged at the corner of Josie¡¯s clothes with her little hand and asked, ¡°Mommy, did Mr. Russell upset you?¡±

 Chapter 1072

    Although Grape knew that Dexter was her father, she had never addressed him as such, instead opting to use ¡°Mr. Russell¡± as a substitute.


    Josie reached out and gently patted her little head. ¡°Adult matters are beyond a child¡¯s understanding. When you grow up, you¡¯ll naturally understand.¡±


    Grape wore an expression of apparentprehension yet confusion, her tiny head appearing as though it was deep in thought.


    The following day, early in the morning.


    Before Josie could even get out of bed, she was rudely awakened by the incessant ringing of her phone. Groping for her phone, she answered the call in a daze.


    ¡°Good morning, Alice,¡± came the hearty voice of L from the other end of the receiver.


    Josie opened his eyes and nced at the time. It was only seven in the morning. ¡°Morning¡­¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you gotten up yet?¡±


    Josie gave a hum of acknowledgment, even though she was already fully awake.


    ¡°You¡¯re calling me so early. Is there something going on?¡±


    ¡°Come over to the window for a moment¡­¡±


    Josie was puzzled. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I had prepared a surprise for you. You can see it from the window.¡±


    The confusion in Josie¡¯s eyes deepened. Unable to resist L¡¯s persistent suspense, she rose, d in her pajamas, and walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window. As her gaze swept across the view, her eyes instantly met with the man standing downstairs.


    L waved at her and said in a rxed tone, ¡°How about it? Are you surprised?¡±


    Josie found it somewhat unbelievable. ¡°Didn¡¯t you go back to the country to deal with work- rted matters? How did you return so quickly?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I finished my work early, so I came back ahead of schedule. What¡¯s the matter? Aren¡¯t you nning to open the door for me?¡±


    ¡°Alright, just wait a moment.¡±


    After changing her clothes, Josie finally descended the stairs to open the door. As soon as she did, she saw L standing there, looking like a weary traveler. The dark circles under his eyes were a clear indication of the man¡¯s exhaustion.


    ¡°How did you return so quickly?¡±


    ¡°If I say it¡¯s because I desperately wanted to see you because I¡¯ve missed you, will you believe that?¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie smiled faintly, yet she was somewhat reluctant to respond to what was being said.


    ¡°Perhaps you should save those sweet words for other youngdies, Mr. Keller¡­¡±


    L felt a tinge of disappointment in his heart, yet he couldn¡¯t help but tease, ¡°I¡¯m being serious, but you don¡¯t believe me. Surely, you don¡¯t expect me to literally show you my heart.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re pouring your heart out so early in the morning. Anyone who didn¡¯t know better would think something had upset you, Mr. Keller.¡±


    Seeing Josie continually evading, L had no choice but to change the subject.


    ¡°Today should be the semi-finals of the Golden Key Awards, right? How is it? There must have been quite a few outstandingpetitors in thispetition, I assume.¡±


    When it came to work, Josie became noticeably more serious.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ there are a few promising candidates. They should be able to stand out from the crowd.


    Pausing for a moment, Josie abruptly changed the subject by saying, ¡°By the way, there¡¯s something I need to tell you. I¡¯ve decided to return to my home country.¡±


    ¡°When was the decision made?¡±


    Josie spoke truthfully. ¡°There isn¡¯t a single piece of information about Paul in Switzend, so I spected that he might still be in our home country. Therefore, I nned to return and continue searching for him.¡±


    L had always been aware that Josie was on a quest to find her father. This had been a constant source of distress for her over the past two years.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If he¡¯s still alive, you¡¯ll definitely find him,¡± L reassured her.


    Josie nodded in agreement. She shared the same belief.


    ¡°When will you be back?¡± L inquired further.


    ¡°After the Golden Key Awards are over, I n to bring Grape back to the country,¡± Josie replied.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡±


    The two continued chatting for a while until they suddenly heard Grape crying from upstairs. Josie hurriedly rushed upstairs to pickup Grape, while L, being considerate, grabbed an apron and headed into the kitchen.


    Before long, Josie descended the stairs, cradling Grape in her arms. The dining table was already adorned with a variety of delectable and enticing dishes.

 Chapter 1073

    ¡°Mr. L¡­.


    Grape¡¯s eyes lit up, and she quickly wriggled free from Josie¡¯s embrace, running towards L.


    Josie gazed at the extravagant breakfast spread before her, feeling a sense of admiration welling up within her. ¡°Whoever marries you in the future,¡± she mused, ¡°will surely be blessed.¡±


    L gently embraced Grape, his gaze softening as he looked at Josie. ¡°Then, would you like to have this good fortune?¡± he asked.


    The words were so straightforward that Josie couldn¡¯t help but let out a mournful sigh. ¡°Boss, this joke really isn¡¯t funny at all.¡±


    L knew that he couldn¡¯t push Josie too hard. So, he simply turned his head towards Grape and said, ¡°Grape, would you like for me to y with you today?¡±


    Grape¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Yes, yes.¡±


    After breakfast, L drove Josie to the venue of the Golden Key Awards semi-finals. Once Josie got out of the car, she went straight into the venue.


    L parked the car in the garage with Grape in tow


    ¡°Good morning, Alice!¡±


    ¡°Alice, you¡¯re here.¡±


    With a smile on her face, Josie greeted her colleagues.


    Right at that moment, Lily arrived. When she saw Josie, Lily¡¯s chin instinctively lifted, and she couldn¡¯t help but let a smug smile creep onto her lips.


    The two individuals inherently had ipatible auras. Josie paid her no mind, walking straight into the elevator. Little did she know that in the next moment, Lily had followed her in.


    As the elevator doors closed, Lily couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Alice, you came in so early today. You¡¯re really dedicated.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows were slightly arched. She had no intention of engaging with Lily, but since thetter took the initiative to approach, she had no choice but to say, ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same for you, Ms. Lily? When we all face our work, we do so with the best attitude, don¡¯t we?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Lily scoffed coldly.


    ¡°Alice, we¡¯re not the same¡­ You really need to cherish this opportunity. Who knows? This might be yourst chance to participate in such arge-scale event.¡±


    Josie clearly sensed that there was more to Lily¡¯s words than met the eye.


    Just as she was about to say something, the elevator had already arrived. Lily was the first to step out. Josie¡¯s gaze deepened as she watched her retreating figure. For some reason, her left eyelid was twitching quite intensely.


    Meanwhile, Dexter was about to step out to attend the semi-finals of the Golden Key Awards. Just then, his phone in his pocket unexpectedly rang. ¡°Mr. Russell, there¡¯s news from Ms. Warren¡¯s father¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s steps faltered beneath him.


    ¡°Have they found the person?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell. We have located Wayne, and it¡¯s highly likely that Paul is in his custody¡­ Our team is currently working on a rescue n.¡±


    ¡°No matter what, his safety must be ensured first and foremost. As for the benefits, we can afford to make as many concessions as possible¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Russell.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Dexter quickened his steps involuntarily. He thought to himself, if Josie knew this news, she would probably be happy.


    The semi-final venue was even more bustling than during the preliminary rounds. The majority of those present were leading figuresin the industry, invited media, and some architectural design enthusiasts.


    Josie sat on the panel of judges, exuding confidence in every gesture and movement.


    ¡°Alice, I heard that the contestant who made it to the semi-finals at thest minute, a guy named Dn, was rmended by you?¡± a colleague suddenly asked from the side.


    Josie nced sideways, not recognizing the contestant Dn. As a result, she inquired, ¡°Dn? What has he done?¡±


    Her colleague was taken aback. ¡°Seriously, Alice? Don¡¯t you recall the name of the contestant? The one who designed the Saint Dezburg Bridge. Weren¡¯t you the one who highly praised his work?¡±

 Chapter 1074

    The Saint Dezburg Bridge Design?


    Josie vaguely remembered the design. It had a grand and imposing overall outline, with a avant-garde concept. The same designer had once cornered her in an underground parking lot. As she thought about his hidden motives, a slight frown involuntarily appeared on Josie¡¯s face.


    ¡°That piece of work is decent, but it wasn¡¯t one I rmended!¡±


    My colleague seemed surprised. ¡°Oh, I see. I thought you had found another promising candidate¡­¡±


    Josie gave a wry smile, not saying much else.


    The organizers presented thetest works of the semi-finalists. The judges sat together, carefully deliberating. Josie examined each piece with great seriousness, fully engrossed. Her demeanor exuded a unique charm.


    Once the judges had reviewed them, thepetition entries were presented to the media and audience for disy. Ultimately, the list of finalists was decided by a vote from the judges.


    Josie stood at the far left of the judges¡¯ panel. Just as she was about to step forward to cast her vote, an unexpected female voice rang out. ¡°Wait a moment. Before we vote, I havesomething to say¡­.


    It was Lily.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    At that moment, she swiftly moved to stand in the center of the judges¡¯ panel. The scene was immediately captured by the surrounding media reporters, who hurriedly approached with their cameras raised.


    ¡°Ms. Lily, if there¡¯s something you need to say, wouldn¡¯t it be better to discuss it privately? This is a public ce, and your actions are somewhat inappropriate,¡± the organizer stepped forward and advised.


    However, Lily remained unmoved. ¡°I stand here today for a reason. Everyone, please don¡¯t rush. Once I¡¯ve said what I need to say, I will naturally step down.¡±


    Lily¡¯s gaze swept over each of the judges, finally resting on Josie. ¡°As one of the judges for thispetition, I am well aware that our contest has always adhered to the principles of fairness and justice. However¡­ some people have disregarded thepetition¡¯s rules and regtions, even going so far as to ept bribes from contestants in private. They have used their minor authority to push unqualified contestants into the semi-finals. This has a very detrimental impact on ourpetition.¡±


    Lily¡¯s voice was neither loud nor soft, yet it clearly reached the ears of everyone present.


    The crowd was immediately shocked.


    ¡°Who could be so unscrupulous, breaking all industry norms?¡±


    ¡°Does this kind of person even deserve to stand here as a judge? Where is the fairness in thispetition?¡±


    ¡°They must be desperate for money, taking any they can get. Ms. Lily, please tell us. Who exactly is this person?¡±


    Everyone spected, trying to guess who Lily was referring to.


    The moment Lily began to speak, Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. After listening to everything she had to say, a smirk of mockery was the only expression on her face. She stood there, seemingly detached from the situation, looking at Lily as if she were a clown.


    However, Lily sensed that Josie was showing signs of guilt.


    The scene before her had achieved the desired effect. Without any hesitation, she stretched out her hand, pointed at Josie, and sternly said, ¡°Today, in front of everyone, I am making a public usation. One of our judges, Alice, has been epting bribes privately, and I can provideplete evidence. Her disgraceful behavior is an utter embarrassment to our design department. I propose that Alice beexpelled from the panel of judges and be banned from participating in any industry activities¡­¡±


    As soon as Lily spoke, everyone¡¯s gaze naturally turned toward Josie as expected.


    There were those who looked on in surprise, those who scorned, and those who watched as if at a y¡­ All sorts of gazes were directed at Josie, making her feel somewhat ufortable.

 Chapter 1075

    Josie finally understood the meaning behind Lily¡¯s words in the elevator. So, she¡¯s deceitful, she thought.


    ¡°Alice, is this true?¡± Josie asked. ¡°Did you really ept a bribe from the contestant?¡±


    ¡°Your actions have vited a serious taboo in this industry, and the entire sector will cklist you. Was it worth it to act in such a way?¡±


    ¡°Alice, could you please exin your original intention behind doing this?¡±


    One question after another was thrown at Josie, and all attention was focused solely on her.


    For the past two years, Josie had always kept a low profile. Despite winning numerous international awards for her work, she had never granted any media interviews.


    In that moment, she felt somewhat ufortable being the center of attention, yet she didn¡¯t show any signs of timidity. She remained calm andposed. She scoffed and said, ¡°Anyone can talk big, but I¡¯d like to ask you, Ms. Lily, do you have any evidence?¡±


    Lilyughed triumphantly, not expecting Josie to fall into the trap so easily.Without hesitation, she reached into her bag and pulled out a stack of photos, tightlygripping them in her hand.


    ¡°Would I dare to expose you in front of so many people without evidence? Everyone, take a look. In this photo, Alice is seen meeting privately with a contestant named Dn. Dn is seen handing Alice arge envelope filled with Atharian currency.¡±


    The cameras immediately started snapping photos of the pictures in Lily¡¯s hand, causing amotion at the scene.


    As soon as Dexter entered through the main gate, he noticed something unusual about the situation.


    He scanned the room, eventually fixing his gaze on Josie. She was alone, surrounded by a crowd of foreign journalists, bombarded with unpleasant noises.


    Without hesitation, Dexter walked towards her.


    ¡°How much would it be worth in Atharian currency for Alice to take such a risk?¡± Dexter approached, maneuvering through the crowd until he reached Josie, firmly holding her hand.


    Josie turned her head, staring at him intently. For some reason, in that fleeting moment, her once unsettled heart seemed to find tranquility.


    She hadn¡¯t spoken yet, but the man took the lead, casting a cold nce at Lily. His tonecarried a hint of mockery as he said, ¡°That envelope had less than ten thousand in Atharian currency, right?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Lily recognized Dexter. He¡¯s the man Josie is having an affair with! she thought.


    Her eyes narrowed, not fully understanding Dexter¡¯s background, but she had a rough idea that this man was not as simple as he appeared.


    ¡°The amount doesn¡¯t matter. Since Alice epted it, the nature of the act remains the same,¡± Lily insisted, now in a predicament.


    ¡°But why would Alice care about a mere ten thousand in Atharian currency? She wouldn¡¯t stoop so low as to use this ten thousand to ruin the career she loves so much.¡±


    ¡°Ha! You shouldn¡¯t have epted it, then!¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie couldn¡¯t contain herself any longer. ¡°Then present the evidence that proves I epted this money,¡± she demanded.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t everything clear in the photos? What more evidence do you want?¡±


    Josie was left speechless by that statement, but she still patiently exined, ¡°Firstly, I admit the authenticity of these photos. Dn did approach me privately, but I clearly rejectedhim. I haven¡¯t taken a single penny from him. Moreover, I can provide evidence to prove my innocence.¡±


    ¡°Wow! That¡¯s breaking news! Show your evidence!¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I would like to see who exactly is lying.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s more convincing to let the facts speak for themselves.¡±

 Chapter 1076

    Upon noticing the shift in the wind, Lily felt somewhat unsteady. How could Alice possibly have evidence?


    Amidst everyone¡¯s anticipation, Josie took out her phone. Her car was equipped with a dashcam, which was already connected to an app on her phone.


    Josie skillfully opened the app and found the video from that day.


    Josie scanned the room, finally spotting a projector not too far from the venue. She walked toward it without hesitation. Dexter followed her, always standing to her left.


    That stancepletely shielded Josie in front of him.


    Josie connected her phone to the projector using a data cable. Instantly, the video content from that day began to y on the screen.


    ¡°Ms. Alice, I¡¯m your fan. I¡¯ve seen almost all of your designs¡­¡± Dn¡¯s voice came through the video, and Lily was instantly petrified. How could this be possible?


    The video clearly depicted the events of that day and also confirmed that Josie did not ept the envelope Dn had handed to her.


    The truth was revealed.


    Everyone couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Attention was collectively turned to Lily. ¡°Ms. Lily, now that the truth is out in the open, is there anything else you would like to say?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Lily, what was the purpose of your actions today? Do you have any personal grudges against Ms. Alice?¡±


    The shbulbs kept flickering at Lily. She instinctively reached out her hand to shield herself. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t know anything¡­ Please, don¡¯t ask me anything.¡±


    However, those reporters were not about to let her off the hook.


    ¡°Ms. Lily, you just fervently used Alice of epting bribes, causing some damage to Ms. Alice¡¯s reputation. Don¡¯t you think you should publicly apologize to Alice?¡±


    ¡°Apologize? Why should I apologize? I didn¡¯t say anything wrong. These photos are the evidence¡­¡± Lily retorted.


    When it came to the photographs, Dexter had no intention of letting her off the hook. He recalled thest time when Larry caught Lily. At that time, Dexter had already found this woman strangely familiar.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes darkened, realizing that all she had done was to go after Josie. Unfortunately,Lily¡¯s little tricks were truly insignificant in his eyes.


    ¡°Where did you get the photos from?¡±


    No sooner had Dexter¡¯s words fallen than a male voice echoed through the hall¡¯s sound system. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to have introduced myself to everyone this way¡­¡±


    The scene immediately fell silent.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Even Josie waspletely baffled. Who¡¯s speaking?


    ¡°My name is Dn. Here, I sincerely want to apologize to Ms. Alice. Ms. Alice is a very sincere and dedicated judge. I was influenced by others to choose to frame Ms. Alice in this way, for which I am sorry. To make up for the harm I caused, I decided to publicly identify the person who instigated me, and that person is Lily.¡±


    ¡°My goodness! This is breaking news!¡± The crowd eximed in astonishment.Upon hearing Dn¡¯s voice, Lily instinctively wanted to flee.


    Before she could even reach the exit, she was abruptly stopped by two security guards. By the time the reporters realized what was happening, they swarmed in, surrounding Lilypletely.


    Josie and Dexter exchanged nces, both of them were taken aback by this sudden turn of events.


    ¡°Is this your doing?¡± Josie asked.


    Dexter shrugged and said, ¡°No¡­¡±


    Who could it be? Who could be so capable? Josie wore a look of confusion. In the next moment, two figures, onerge and one small, appeared within her line of sight. L, carrying Grape, walked toward her.

 Chapter 1077

    Grape leaned towards her, eximing, ¡°Mommy!¡±


    L cast a warm nce in her direction, but as his gaze fell upon her standing shoulder to shoulder with Dexter, the smile on his lips froze instantly.


    Subconsciously, Josie took a step back, distancing herself slightly from Dexter. ¡°How did you all get here?¡±


    The scene was lively. Everyone had followed Lily. Only Dexter noticed Josie¡¯s deliberate distance. His face sank into a weary pallor.


    ¡°You seemed to be in a difficult situation. The organizer had given me a heads-up, and when I arrived, I happened to see a suspicious person trying to leave. Something didn¡¯t feel right.¡± L shifted his gaze away from Dexter.


    ¡°I¡¯m extremely grateful to you. Without you, I truly wouldn¡¯t know how to prove my innocence.¡± With sincere gratitude, Josie took Grape from L¡¯s arms and yfully toyed with her.


    Dexter stood behind the three of them like an outsider.


    Perhaps it was his overwhelming aura that made the scene somewhat eerie. L couldn¡¯t ignore Dexter¡¯s presence. He asked softly, ¡°Who is this?¡±


    Josie subtly nced sideways, finding an appropriate identity for Dexter. ¡°He¡¯s Mr. Russell of Russell Group.¡±


    Of course, L knew Dexter. When he returned to his country, he had already figured out who Dexter was. Dexter, who single- handedly saved the entire city, was a prominent figure in Wavery. Apart from his Russell Group, the Russell family¡¯s influence in Wavery was unparalleled, and he had already be the head of the family.


    In other words, Dexter was a very formidable and highly respected man.


    However, Dexter was standing next to Josie, their interaction intimate.


    L chuckled lightly, gesturing forward. ¡°Mr. Russell, I should have greeted you properly when west met, but unfortunately, it was too rushed. I didn¡¯t expect to see you here today. Please forgive me.¡±


    L was a courteous and gentle man of decorum.


    As Dexter looked at him, he was inexplicably reminded of another person. However, that person¡¯s pretense and deceit were executed far more elegantly than L¡¯s.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Dexter didn¡¯t shake hands with L.


    L¡¯s hand froze mid-air, a hint of awkwardness lingering. He quickly withdrew it.


    ¡°I¡¯m L Keller of Keller Group.¡±


    The Dexter before him was clearly younger than him, yet it was hard to perceive him as a junior.


    Dexter nced at Josie. ¡°I understand now. You¡¯re Jo¡¯s boss.¡±


    Obviously, Dexter was belittling L.


    ¡°Do you know Alice?¡±


    ¡°You should ask her.¡±


    Josie had been listening to their conversation, and at this point, she could no longer bear it. She stepped forward, approaching L. ¡°Grape, say goodbye to Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie told Grape to bid Dexter farewell.


    The joy in Grape¡¯s heart was instantly extinguished when she saw him. ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Russell.


    Dexter squinted his eyes.


    Josie said calmly, ¡°Thank you for your help today. I have some matters to attend to, so I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    She talked to him as though they were mereacquaintances.However, L could clearly sense that Josie was not afraid of Dexter, and thetter, in her presence, harbored neither hostility nor contempt.


    The vibes between them were quite peculiar.


    L obediently allowed himself to be led away by Josie, but not before he turned back to nod respectfully towards Dexter.


    Dexter watched the scene unfold, clicking his tongue in disapproval. Larry, steeling himself, stepped forward. ¡°Mr. Russell-¡±


    ¡°Did you see that?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°He was provoking me,¡± Dexter uttered in an unfazed tone.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Being a man himself, he naturally understood the other¡¯s thoughts.


    The organizers quickly resolved the issue with Lily by promptly escorting her out of the venue. It can be safely assumed that she will not be seen on the judging panel for the major awards in the future.


    With just one sentence from Dexter, she was disqualified from thepetition altogether. Essentially, she sabotaged her own chances.

 Chapter 1078

    Josie returned backstage, wrapping up the event. By the time she finished, the organizers were incredibly grateful.


    ¡°Ms. Alice, you¡¯re incredibly diligent and responsible. Without you, we wouldn¡¯t have known what to do.¡±


    Josie chuckled lightly, stood up, and headed towards the lounge. Grape was asleep, with L standing guard by her side.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She leaned against the door, watching for a while. L felt her gaze but didn¡¯t turn around, busy with work on his phone.


    ¡°When did you meet Mr. Russell from Russell Group? Why have you never mentioned it before?¡± he asked.


    Josie¡¯s heart felt heavy, as if a stone had been thrown, stirring up waves.


    ¡°It¡¯s been quite some time. Back when I was in Wavery, I used to work at Russell Group.¡±


    ¡°Were you a designer?¡±


    ¡°Yes.


    ¡°That¡¯s an impressive track record. Why did you give it up? Your resume didn¡¯t mention anything about Russell Group.¡±


    L felt ufortable, bordering on aninterrogation, Josie understood this. She took a deep breath and walked up to him.


    ¡°It was an unpleasant memory. I¡¯d rather not bring it up.¡±


    L looked up, locking eyes with her for a moment. ¡°Is it about Dexter and you?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face froze, her eyes revealing a hint of sorrow and despair.


    Before she could respond, L curved his lips into a smile, patting her shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s all right. If you don¡¯t want to talk about it, that¡¯s fine. I-¡±


    ¡°Grape is his daughter,¡± Josie quickly replied.It seemed as if a second slower, and articting this answer would have been impossible.


    The air fell into an awkward silence. L¡¯s expression remained unchanged. One could even say that he had forgotten to change it.


    L wanted to say something. His lips moved hesitantly, but no words came out.


    Josie gave a bitter smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t really want to say it, but I thought you would eventually find out. Grape looks too much like him, doesn¡¯t she? Moreover, I don¡¯t want to hide anything from you.¡±


    After a long while, L seemed to recover. ¡°He came back to look for you¡­ Why?¡±


    ¡°He wanted custody of Grape.¡±


    Josie strolled over to the window, gazing down at the splendid scenery of Sumanthova.She couldn¡¯t get enough of the beautiful scenery.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t give her to him.¡±


    ¡°He is Dexter. Even if you desire, you may not necessarily be able to stop him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s emotions had reached a breaking point. She spun around abruptly. ¡°So what if that¡¯s the case? I gave birth to Grape. She is my child, and there¡¯s no way I could ever give her away!¡±


    Her resolute anger, paradoxically, somewhat put L at ease. He patted Josie¡¯s back, reassuring her, ¡°It¡¯s okay. It¡¯s okay. Although Keller Group is smallerpared to Russell Group, I assure you, if you need it, I will support you with all my might.¡±


    Josie remained silent, her emotions calm.


    L had helped her immensely. She couldn¡¯t possibly involve him for her own sake.In the silence that hung in the air, Josie¡¯s phone suddenly rang. It was an unfamiliar number.


    She frowned as she answered the call.


    ¡°Ask him to let go of you.¡±


    The person¡¯s voice was cool and resolute. She recognized the voice.


    rm bells were ringing in Josie¡¯s mind. She looked around in a panic, only to see a man of superior stature sitting on a bench across theke. She had no idea how long he had been watching her.


    This person hasn¡¯t changed a bit over the years! Josie calmly took a deep breath. ¡°Are you out of your mind? This is Sumanthova, not Wavery!¡±


    Despite her words, Josie instinctively pushed L away and entered the restroom.


    ¡°No matter where you go, you belong to me.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice allowed no room for interruption, revealing a stubborn determination beneath his indifference.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    ¡°Paul has been located.¡±


    Josie fell into silence.


    ¡°Jo, it¡¯s time for you to address the terms I presented,¡± he stated.

 Chapter 1079

    Dexter always had a way. He knew exactly how to manipte her.Facing the mirror above the sink, Josie took a deep breath. She longed to resist, but she was helpless.


    Dexter seemed to sense her emotions, his tone softening. ¡°I¡¯m not threatening you. I simply want to provide you with a better life. I want to make up for past mistakes with you. Give me a chance.¡±


    Josie held her phone tightly, her palms breaking out in sweat.Images from the past flooded her mind uncontrobly, her eyes welling up with tears. ¡°I¡¯ve trusted you many times before.¡±


    On the other end of the phone, there was a brief silence. No one knew the magnitude of the storm raging in Dexter¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Why should I believe you this time?¡± she asked.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Justin.¡± Dexter responded swiftly, ¡°For the past two years, Justin has beenying low in Rivodia in order to find Paul. My people have been secretly protecting him. Now, he has found a lead, confirming that Paul is indeed in Rivodia, alive and well.¡±


    As thest few words were spoken, a sharp pain gripped Josie¡¯s heart. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°We are doing everything in our power to rescue him, but it might not be that simple. You have to return to the country,¡± he answered.


    She was his daughter, so naturally, she had to return to her homnd.


    ¡°Why is it Mr. Dalton¡­¡± Josie reminisced about the past. She had clearly ruled out Wayne first.After a moment of contemtion, Dexter said, ¡°You should know the story of Rivodia better than I do.¡±


    ¡°Fly to Rivodia when you return to the country. We¡¯ll meet there,¡± Dexter said.


    After hanging up the phone, Dexter sat by the picturesqueke. His mood was heavy, yet filled with hope. They had a child, and that was enough to smooth over the past.


    After Josie emerged from the restroom, Grape had already woken up, quietly being held by L.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± L asked, filled with concern.


    Josie washed her face, droplets of water clinging to her skin. She shook her head wearily, ¡°I will resign from my position as a judge with the organizerster. I¡¯m returning to my country tomorrow.¡±


    L was astonished. ¡°So soon? Will you have enough time to get your documents in order? Where are you going back to? Wavery?¡±


    ¡°Rivodia.¡±


    For the past two years, she had been relentlessly searching for Paul. Now that she finally had a solid lead, she couldn¡¯t afford to waste a single moment.


    As for the documents, since Dexter had made this request, he was certainly capable of resolving it.


    ¡°What about Grape?¡±


    Josie stepped forward, picking Grape up. ¡°She¡¯sing back with me.¡±


    The woman¡¯s departing figure was resolute. As L watched her, he suddenly had an ominous premonition. Perhaps the serious words he had spoken to her that night were about to be indefinitely shelved.


    ¡°Mommy, are we going back?¡± During the night, Grape¡¯s innocent eyes darted around, oblivious to the ways of the world.


    Josie nced at the neatly packed luggage. All the important belongings from the past two years were inside.


    A news alert about the e-sports circle poppedup on the phone. It was indeed a major headline about Helena joining Stardust. A girl participating in thepetition stirred up quite a buzz in public opinion.


    ¡°Yes. We¡¯re going back to see Mikey and Hellie. Do you still remember them?¡±


    ¡°I do! Once we return to our homnd, will we still be able to see Mr. Russell?¡± Grape was filled with mncholy.


    Josie sighed when she heard that. That¡¯s for sure.At that moment, the memory of that sweltering afternoon came to mind.


    On the expansive rooftop of Olsen Residence, he tightly grasped her, issuing threats. He warned her that if she dared to be with Morgan, he would make sure they had a child together.


    Ultimately, they did conceive a child.


    Perhaps even he hadn¡¯t expected it.


    Josie averted her eyes, gently kissing Grape¡¯s forehead. She would never reveal to Grape that her arrival was unexpected.

 Chapter 1080

    The next day, Mallory and L met at the airport.Although he imed to be the boss, Mallory was somewhat skeptical. She teasingly said, ¡°No wonder Dexter is so eager to bring you back to the country.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°I¡¯m not returning to the country for his sake.¡±


    Mallory ordered two cups of coffee at Starbucks and also got a small cake for Grape. While they waited, she asked, ¡°Do you know why I¡¯ve been able to stay with Calvin for so long?¡±


    Even after experiencing tremendous turmoil, they were still together.


    ¡°Why?¡± L inquired.


    ¡°I did it by turning a blind eye. I could tolerate his somewhat questionable rtionships with other women, and he could ept my flirtations with other men. But when it came down to the wire, when we had to make a choice, he and I would choose each other.¡± Mallory, with her cascading waves of hair, still radiated a dazzling beauty when sheughed.


    Josie didn¡¯t quite understand. ¡°How can you be sure that you two are meant to be?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps because we¡¯re soulmates.¡±


    In Josie¡¯s eyes, she had a different idea about soulmates.


    The waiter brought over the coffee and cake. Josie scooped up a spoonful and fed it to Grape, watching as she ate with delight. Josie felt happy seeing how thrilled Grape was.


    ¡°The other half I yearn for must be unwaveringly loyal from the very beginning, without a shadow of a doubt,¡± Josie said.


    Upon hearing this, Mallory looked outside. ¡°Are you talking about L?¡±


    Josie fell silent.


    As it was almost time to board, L had just finished handling his business affairs. He closed hisptop and watched as Josie walked toward him, holding the child.


    However, Josie¡¯s gaze fell upon a figure not far away. It was a rainy day in Sumanthova. The ss windows were foggy, and the man¡¯s silhouette appeared hazy through the mist.


    L asked her what was wrong.


    Josie shook her head and followed the crowd to board the ne.


    L spoke from behind her, discussing the arrangements for their return to Rivodia. As a semi-host, he had nned the itinerary quiteappropriately


    After hearing that, Josie felt somewhat apologetic and said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I might have to disappoint you. I¡¯ve already made prior arrangements.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    L¡¯s expression froze as he looked toward the private jet parked not too far away, unsure of who could be inside.


    ¡°Him?¡±


    In fact, Larry had reached out to her the previous night, suggesting that they not take a regr flight back to Rivodia. Josie had declined. With the child still so young, she didn¡¯t want her to feel superior to others.


    ¡°My primary purpose for returning to Rivodia is to find Paul. As for anything else, I haven¡¯t given it any thought.¡±


    L seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.


    Heading out with Grape was always effortless for her. She possessed the ability to fall asleep in a mere second.


    The airne had inte ess, so Josie opened herptop and plugged in her headphones. As soon as sheunched the music app, she saw a string of garbled text requesting to listen to music together.


    She refused it, but the other party requested again. This went on a couple more times.


    Josie felt helpless, curious to see who was on the other end. She agreed to the request, and the melodious instrumental music flowed into both their ears.


    Immediately after, she saw the other party typing on the public screen: What can be confirmed is that Paul is in good health, but he is under house arrest.


    Josie furrowed her brows, nearly spilling her coffee. Dexter! How did he know my music ount? Well, he managed to find the person I was looking for. What¡¯s all this inparison?


    To gather additional information about Paul, Josie had no alternative but to be truthful. She typed: Paul had previously conducted an unsessful surgery on Mr. Dalton¡¯s older sister, which might have led to their animosity. However, during their recent trip to Rivodia, they explicitly stated to me that Mr. Dalton did not authorize the abduction of Paul.


    Upon receiving this vital information from her, Dexter on the opposite sidemenced contemting.

 Chapter 1081

    Before him, astonishingly, was a map of Wayne¡¯s current underground territory in Rivodia.


    In addition to Rivodia, several other important cities in the state were also involved. Over the past two years, his power had continuously expanded to the point where even the higher- ups could no longer strictly control him.


    There had been a power struggle between the two sides. Wavery, after all, was the state capital, and Wayne was operating underground. Dexter always seemed to have the upper hand.


    Larry was deeply concerned. ¡°Would it be too hasty? If Mr. Dalton firmly refuses, we might not necessarily seed.¡±


    Outside the window, the sky stretched out endlessly, with clouds floating freely. Dexter gazed at it for a long time, his thoughts filled with the loneliness of the past two years dedicated to an unwavering pursuit.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait any longer.¡±


    ¡°What if he takes advantage of the opportunity to seize Russell Group?¡±


    ¡°Then let him have it,¡± Dexter said calmly. ¡°It¡¯s insignificant if it¡¯s for her. Besides, she fought for Russell Group.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    That year, she had ventured in alone. Despitebeing visibly shattered, she managed to stand firm in front of those people, telling them that she stood by Dexter¡¯s side and that Russell Group could only belong to him.


    Larry was somewhat taken aback, but he quickly understood. He chuckled lightly. ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s been quite a long wait.¡±


    After Josie finished speaking, she didn¡¯t receive a response from Dexter, which made her somewhat anxious.


    ¡°Are you there? Did you see what I said?¡±


    Looking at the words on the screen, Dexter adjusted his headphones and turned on the microphone. ¡°I did. We still have ten hours until we reach Rivodia. Get some good sleep.¡±


    The voice within the radio waves carried a hint of weariness and hoarseness. It was indistinguishable from the voice of the youth from years past.


    Josie¡¯s ears felt numb and tingly, and a blush spread across her face. As the final notes of one song faded away, she was still caught in its emotional undertow when the gentle melody of a new song began to y.


    He had changed the song.


    The voice of a male singer rang out.


    ¡°Been away, haven¡¯t seen you in a while. How have you been? Have you


    ¡°That¡¯s because I have been away for the past year. Now that I am here, please be assured and trust me to take care of her.¡±


    After Mallory finished speaking, she gently held Grape in her arms and suggested, ¡°How about I introduce you to a friendly gentleman? He has an abundance of candies waiting for you there.¡±

 Chapter 1082

    Grape had no choice but to turn towards Josie.Her obedient demeanor tugged at Josie¡¯s heart. She sighed and said, ¡°I have some work to do. Why don¡¯t you go y with Ms. Whiteford for a while? Once I¡¯m finished, I¡¯lle right back.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    A child of just over a year old would naturally have a strong attachment to their mother. It was truly heartbreaking to see her suppress her sadness.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I will take good care of Grape,¡± Mallory assured.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let Calvin spoil her. Keep an eye on them,¡± Josie reminded.


    ¡°Leave it to me.¡± Mallory gave L a mischievous smile and then walked away with Grape.Josie took it all in and exined to L, ¡°She¡¯s a woman, after all. It¡¯s more convenient.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Alice. It seems like you all know more than I do,¡± L said weakly.


    Ever since Dexter appeared, it felt as if Josie was gradually returning to a past that had nothing to do with him.


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to describe such artionship. In her silent pause, Larry, who had been watching from a distance for a long time, finally approached


    ¡°Ms. Warren, it¡¯s time to leave.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Josie nced to the side. Dexter was not far away, exuding a hint of weariness.


    When the subordinate brought the car around, he was extremely respectful as he said, ¡°I was not aware that your flight had been rescheduled to an earlier time, hence the dy, Mr. Russell. Please ept my apologies.¡±


    It was a Te fresh from the car dealership, which, for him, wasn¡¯t considered too extravagant.The atmosphere in the car was heavy. Larry was driving in the front seat. ¡°Moses will arrive tomorrow.¡±


    It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve heard that name.Dexter subtly lifted his gaze, while Josie sat in the corner, staring at the scenery outside, seemingly oblivious to everything around her.


    ¡°Have you made the arrangements regarding the matter with Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°I have. It will just be a regr meal, but he doesn¡¯t know what we¡¯re really up to.


    The two engaged in sporadic conversation. Josie had been listening for a while and was starting to feel somewhat stifled, so she rolled down the car window.


    ¡°Mr. Dalton never showed his true self to anyone. Will hee?¡±


    Dexter was about to respond, but Larry beat him to it. ¡°If it were anyone else, he certainly wouldn¡¯te. However, these past two years, he has been constantly challenging Mr. Russell. As long as Mr. Russell is present, he wille.¡±


    I see.


    ¡°What about Justin? Can I see him?¡±


    ¡°It depends on the situation.¡±


    After answering, Larry felt the cold temperature from the back seat. He pped his forehead, quickly raised the partition, and focused on being a driver.


    ¡°If you wish to see him, I¡¯ll arrange it,¡± Dexter said, looking at her while absentmindedly rubbing his fingertips.


    Josie noticed his subtle movements and also observed that the rosary beads on his wrist were no longer there.


    Two years have passed. It¡¯s time for a change.


    She said in a low voice, ¡°Could you pass on a message for me? Whether he wants to meet or not, it¡¯s up to him.¡±


    Instead of La Oriele, they arrived at an upscale country club, where a few socialites stood at the entrance, weing guests.


    After getting out of the car, Larry hesitated and said, ¡°Ms. Warren, your attire today¡­¡±


    She was dressed simply as she had been traveling with a child. Despite her natural elegance, her attire seemed somewhat out of ce.


    ¡°I¡¯ll arrange for someone to bring a set of clothes for you,¡± Dexter offered, extending his hand towards her.


    ¡°No, she can wear whatever she prefers, Dexter interjected, gesturing towards her.


    ¡°What role am I ying today?¡± Josie inquired.


    ¡°You are mypanion,¡± Dexter replied.


    Josie appeared hesitant. She massaged her temples and stated, ¡°I should change my attire and makeup. Mr. Dalton has seen me before.¡±


    Inside the changing room of the luxurious country club, Larry brought in a white gown. It was an exquisite, tailor-made garment that seemed to have been designed specifically for her.

 Chapter 1083

    Josie stared at her reflection in the mirror. Her makeup was wlessly applied, and her skin was fair, even more radiant than her gown. It seemed as if the gown was made specifically for her.


    For many years, she had intentionally avoided wearing white clothes.


    ¡°Josie,¡± she whispered softly.


    I¡¯m Josie, not Alice.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    The corridor was brightly lit, filled with groups of wealthy and noble young people. They held their wine sses, engaging in casual conversations. asionally, a beautiful woman would pass by, but they wouldn¡¯t even bother to look at her.


    However, when Josie walked out, their eyes lit up.Clutching her handbag, Josie walked down the long corridor. As she turned the corner, she suddenly heard a suggestive sound.


    In the corner room, with the door partially open, a woman¡¯s seductive moan echoed from within.


    Josie nced over, uninterested in such matters. However, it was this very nce that made her stop abruptly.


    Just moments ago, she caught a glimpse of thewoman¡¯s face. There was a distinctive mole under the corner of her eye, making her easily recognizable.


    Laura!


    Isn¡¯t she supposed to be in Wavery? How did she end up in Rivodia? And what are the chances of her being here?


    Over the past two years, Josie hadn¡¯t been in contact with Laura. Yet, today, she was able to recognize her at first sight.


    Engrossed in their activities, they failed to notice the person outside. The man¡¯s voice was deep and almost inaudible. With his back turned to her, Josie couldn¡¯t identify him.


    But judging from his figure, she was certain he wasn¡¯t Zach.In the past couple of years, there hadn¡¯t been any reports of misfortune befalling the Olsen family.


    Josie lowered her gaze, stepping out of the long corridor. Dexter stood tall and dignified at the entrance, surrounded by numerous executives eager to approach and engage him in conversation.


    However, none dared.


    ¡°The clothes suit you well,¡± Dexter said, his gazefixed on Josie as she approached him, a hint of affection in his eyes.


    It wasn¡¯t that the clothesplemented her, but rather, sheplemented the clothes.She had changed her makeup, making it almost impossible to recognize her true face.Instead of responding to that, Josie said, ¡°I just saw Laura. She¡¯s with a man.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression subtly changed, but he wasn¡¯t surprised. ¡°Today¡¯s headline in Rivodia is about her. Don¡¯t you know?¡±


    Josie nced sideways.


    The two walked side by side into the country club, attracting numerous fascinated gazes from the crowd.


    Dexter of Russell Group wasn¡¯t in the best of health, and he had rarely been active in the past couple of years. This asion was indeed rare, and surprisingly, he was apanied by a woman.


    ¡°How are things with the Olsen family?¡± Josie hadn¡¯t intended to ask, but upon seeing Laura, she couldn¡¯t help herself.


    ¡°Laura is managing things very well. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be making headlines for trivial matters, Dexter said with a smirk, his toneslightly cold.


    Josie wanted to ask who the man was, but they had already reached the entrance of a private room.The bodyguard gestured for a body search and prohibited the carrying of recording devices.


    Josie looked down. ¡°Do I look like I could hide anything in these clothes?¡±


    The bodyguard merely nced at her figure and his face turned beet red. Mindful of the man beside her, he didn¡¯t dare to make a move.


    He didn¡¯t dare to search Dexter¡¯s body either. At first nce, it was clear that he was no ordinary individual.


    So in the end, no one was searched.The door to the private room swung open, revealing an interior of luxury and grandeur, filled with a sweet, intoxicating aroma of wine.


    Inside, the room was empty. Looking through the window, one could see people passing by on the street, creating a stark contrast betweenthe two worlds.


    After a while, a small group of individuals entered the room, ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s been quite a while! I didn¡¯t anticipate running into you today!¡±


    Mr. Russell seemed to hold a political position, dressed in a suit and disying a warm demeanor towards Dexter.


    Dexter, on the other hand, greeted each person with indifference. ¡°The main character is runningte today¡±


    Wayne had yet to arrive.

 Chapter 1084

    Several individuals sat around the table while the server poured tea for each of them. Apologetically, he mentioned, ¡°Mr. Dalton will be arriving shortly.¡±


    These individuals were clearly more intrigued by the only woman present. ¡°Mr. Russell, who is thisdy?¡±


    ¡°My name is Alice,¡± Josie replied with just the right tone.However, what these individuals wanted to know was not just a mere title.From their intermittent conversations, Josie deduced the underlying cause.


    There was a piece ofnd where Rivodia and Wavery intersected, and an ongoing dispute between the two sides, each vying for thend. In such a situation, it was inevitable for the key figures toe forward and negotiate.


    Dexter¡¯s gaze remained fixed on Josie. The hands she rested on herp were no longer as delicate as they used to be, indicating the hardships she had endured over the past two years.


    ¡°Over the past two years, the Bastille family¡¯s influence has indeed declined, while Mr. Dalton has been rising to prominence. It must have been quite challenging for all of you to navigate through this,¡± Dexter said, his words carryingdeep implications.


    Several people sighed. ¡°It¡¯s wonderful that you understand us, Mr. Russell, but we still have to fight for this piece ofnd.¡±


    Dexter chuckled.


    Soon, there was amotion outside. The attendant entered first, followed by the important figure.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we meet again.¡±


    The voice of a middle-aged man, tinged with weariness, echoed through the room. Josie immediately looked up, her gazending on a tall man who had just entered. The man wore a mask that concealed his entire face. He stood before Dexter, slightly towering over him.


    ¡°Mr. Dalton.¡± The two of them shook hands.


    ¡°I heard that you haven¡¯t brought a femalepanion to important events for a long time, Mr. Russell. This is indeed the first time in two years,¡± Wayne spoke in a teasing tone, then invited everyone to take their seats.


    Josie noticed a very faint scar on his wrist, which was not easily discernible unless closely examined.


    She narrowed her eyes.


    ¡°Alice, my assistant,¡± Dexter introduced.


    Wayne stared at her, his gaze prating through the mask. ¡°She¡¯s beautiful.¡±


    Josie felt a bit nervous. She felt as if she was back at the highway intersection years ago, with Arnold charging through the checkpoint with her.


    At that time, Wayne had watched them through the rain.


    The negotiation process was mostly handled by the staff. Conversations between Dexter and Wayne were much more casual, as if they were long-lost friends meeting again after a long time.


    ¡°Russell Group has grown significantly and has already stepped onto the international stage. Do they still need topete with Rivodia for this piece ofnd?¡± Wayne pondered. ¡°Over the past few years, while you¡¯ve been away from the spotlight, the entire stage has been filled with tales of your legendary deeds.¡±


    Dexter responded with a light and casual tone, ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same with you, Mr. Dalton? You¡¯re on the verge of taking over the entire Bastille Group. Morgan¡¯s position is about to be jeopardized. Why put yourself through this?¡±


    The two exchanged a nce, their lips curving into meaningful smiles.


    ¡°Would Ms. Alice care for some top-quality chamomile tea?¡± Wayne suddenly changed the subject, looking towards Josie, who was deep in thought.


    Josie regained herposure, her expression unchanged. ¡°I don¡¯t fancy drinking chamomile tea.¡±


    This statement caused Dexter to slightly raise his eyebrows.


    ¡°Your outfit seems familiar to me,¡± Wayne said,


    fiddling with the ring on his thumb.


    The assistant behind him quickly added, ¡°A while ago, Ms. Dalton insisted on wearing a gown. When we went to have it custom-made, we saw this gown. The salesperson said it was a special order for a distinguished guest, and it took a whole year to make.¡±


    Wayne was struck by a sudden realization. ¡°I never anticipated that you would be the one to wear it, Ms. Alice. It appears that you are not insignificant.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Josie nced at Dexter, taken aback by the unexpected backstory of such a in dress.


    ¡°Ms. Dalton? Do you have a daughter, Mr. Dalton?¡± Josie smoothly transitioned to a new topic, concealing any emotions.


    ¡°She turned seven this year.¡±


    It has been two years. She must be seven years old now.


    ¡°What a coincidence. I also have a daughter,¡± Josie remarked.

 Chapter 1085

    This statement caused a silence to fill the air. Wayne¡¯s fingertips turned white as he pressed on his ring, refraining from making any furtherments.


    How could Dexter¡¯s truepanion possibly have a daughter?


    But Wayne¡¯s attention wasn¡¯t on that. ¡°Mr. Russell, I heard that you recently visited Sumanthova.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter cast a leisurely nce at Josie. ¡°Sumanthova¡¯s scenery is picturesque. It¡¯s perfect for retirement. Does it interest you, Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s still too early for me to retire.¡±


    As they conversed, dish after dish was served. Josie barely touched her cutlery, feeling a sense of anxiety stirring within her. Under the table, she discreetly tugged at Dexter¡¯s hand.


    He noticed and, betraying no emotion, tightened his grip on her hand beneath the table.Josie was nearly pulled over by him, but she did her best to restrain herself.


    She simply wrote in the palm of his hand: How long will it take?


    Dexter calmly drew the number one.Just at that moment, someone burst through the door, eximing, ¡°La Oriele is on fire.¡±


    Wayne nced up, and his assistant immediately asked, ¡°How big is the fire?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s huge. The fire started from the north, where it was dry. The wind today was blowing in just the right direction, quickly igniting many buildings. The fire brigade is stuck in traffic!¡± The person dared not speak loudly.


    The assistant¡¯s face changed. ¡°Where are Mr. Quincy and Mr. Vipera?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ve arrived, but the fire is too big¡­¡±


    ¡°How are they?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re evacuating!¡±


    La Oriele was originally situated in a location that wasn¡¯t particrly open or clear. If it were to catch fire, many residential houses would be endangered. When the time came to assign responsibility, Wayne would find it hard to escape me.


    Josie slowly turned her head, casting a nceat Dexter beside her. He took a leisurely sip of his tea, clearly dissatisfied with the taste.


    ¡°It seems I won¡¯t be able to y the gracious host today,¡± Wayne suddenly said.Dexter led Josie outside to see him off. ¡°Let¡¯s gather again next time.¡±


    Wayne quickly got into the car. Before he left, he rolled down the window and gave Josie a scrutinizing look.That single nce made her heart pound.


    ¡°Did you do it?¡± Josie asked Dexter.


    ¡°I¡¯ve investigated. The ce where your father is being held under house arrest is very close to La Oriele. If they want to put out the fire, they will inevitably have to pull out their men. It¡¯s the only time we have a chance to take advantage of the situation.¡±


    The night wind was chilly. As Dexter spoke, he removed his coat and draped it over her.


    ¡°Has Paul been rescued?¡± she asked anxiously.


    ¡°We won¡¯t know until another ten minutes.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. The anxiety and dread she had umted over the years had finally culminated in a crescendo.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the restroom.¡±


    After a long flight, she was already exhausted. She dragged her weary body into the restroom. However, as soon as she entered, a forceful pull from behind drew her in, pressing her directlyinto a dark corner.


    Josie tried to scream, but her mouth was quickly covered. Soon, a man wearing a mask came into her view.Josie¡¯s eyes widened. Mr. Dalton! Isn¡¯t he gone?


    The other party directly removed his mask, revealing a handsome face that was both familiar and unfamiliar.


    ¡°Have you looked closely? I¡¯m not him.¡±


    Josie¡¯s tightly furrowed brows gradually rxed. Her mind was a nk canvas, but her ingrained muscle memory took the lead.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Arnold! What is he doing here?


    Two years had psed, and his gaze had be even colder. Whenever he exerted his influence over her, it felt as if she was being transported back to that fateful night when she was abducted.


    Observing her in such a state of agitation, Arnold gently lifted her chin and chuckled softly. ¡°Don¡¯t you remember me?¡±


    I can recognize him even if he turns into ashes.


    ¡°You think I¡¯m Mr. Dalton?¡± she asked, her voicetrembling.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you, I am not him.¡±

 Chapter 1086

    ¡°Do you not recognize me? I knew it was you the moment I saw you.¡±


    Josie quickly understood. ¡°Mr. Dalton asked you to pretend to be him.¡±


    In other words, Wayne is still in La Oriele today. He didn¡¯te to meet with Dexter at all!


    Josie desperately tried to break free and run outside, but Arnold swiftly caught her, flinging her into a corner.Josie groaned in pain, struggling to get up for quite some time.


    ¡°It has been two years since west met. You are still afraid of me.¡±


    Josie crouched in the corner, trembling. Her eyes were filled with fear and tension, yet she forced herself to appear calm.


    ¡°I thought you had disappeared a long time ago. I did not expect you to still be alive, let alone dare to show up in front of me!¡±


    ¡°You are just the same as you were back then.¡± Arnold clicked his tongue, gently wiping away her makeup. ¡°You are clearly terrified, yet you pretend to be fearless.¡±


    ¡°I am just d you are alive. I will settle the past scores with you one by one!¡±


    ¡°We have just met, and you are already saying such annoying things. I do not like it.¡±


    Two years had passed. Arnold had transformed into a figure of unwavering ruthlessness and determination, shedding the traces of mncholy and emotional vtility that once defined him.


    ¡°Who is the father of the child?¡±


    Josie opened her mouth, biting his hand. ¡°It is not yours anyway. What is the point of asking such a question?¡±


    Arnold couldn¡¯t help but shudder when he heard Josie mention having a child in the private room just now.


    Time flew by, and everything had changed.


    ¡°Is it Dexter¡¯s or Morgan¡¯s?¡± Arnold asked in a hushed voice.He was always aware that, in her eyes, these two individuals would forever hold a greater significance than him.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°My child has nothing to do with them!¡±


    Seeing blood on his hand, Arnold forcefully withdrew it and let the blood drop onto Josie¡¯s. ¡°I will know once I see her.¡±


    Josie wanted to p him, but he swiftlyblocked her hand and said, ¡°It seems like you have reconciled with Dexter.¡±


    An additional scar now adorned the corner of those captivating eyes. The flirtatious charm that once sparkled within them had vanished, reced solely by an intense sharpness.


    Josie did not respond. ¡°La Oriele is on fire. Are you not going to save Mr. Dalton?¡±


    Outside, footsteps could be heard, but Arnold turned a deaf ear to them. ¡°I forgot to tell you. Justin was exposed yesterday. All the news today is just a smokescreen. So, no matter how big a fire is set in La Oriele, your ns cannot be aplished.¡±


    Each word, each sentence he spoke pierced Josie¡¯s heart. She looked at him in disbelief. ¡°You knew all along. It was you who helped Wyatt kidnap my father, yet you denied it.¡±


    Not only did he deny it, but he also led her in the wrong direction.Thinking about everything she had experienced over the past few years, Josie wished she could kill him.


    Arnold scoffed, ¡°Wyatt is such a fool, always wanting more and more. I had no choice but to take him down. I heard he hasn¡¯t woken up yet.¡±


    So it really is him.


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Josie¡¯s eyes reddened as she forced herself to stand. ¡°Where is Paul? Where is he?¡±


    Arnold was pinned against the corner as she grabbed his cor.


    ¡°Direct your anger at me or Dexter! You can kill me, but spare an old man!¡±


    She sounded as if she was begging towards the end.


    When Arnold heard Dexter¡¯s name, his smoldering anger was reignited. He quickly seized Josie¡¯s wrist and said, ¡°Alright. If you¡¯re so loyal to Dexter, I¡¯m curious to know if he reciprocates your feelings.¡±

 Chapter 1087

    ¡°Edward is still in Dexter¡¯s custody. If you want Paul to return, help me rescue him first.¡±


    The exchange of a life for a life was discussed as if it were a business transaction.Josie¡¯s heart grew colder and her strength slowly waned. ¡°Arnold, is Paul safe?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Dexter inform you?¡± he asked teasingly.


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Josie was on the brink of madness, and the buttons on her gown came undone.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about what happened in Wavery,¡± he said, fastening her dress one by one. ¡°You were stunning in white when you exposed Rachel¡¯s lies.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but tremble.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re the daughter of the Olsen family, with no one to challenge you, why won¡¯t you return?¡± Arnold let go of her. ¡°Take my advice. Paul is not your biological father, after all.¡±


    p!


    Arnold was struck so hard that his head was knocked to the side.


    Josie was so infuriated that her chest heaved. ¡°Come at me, I dare you!¡±


    Arnold remained silent. Josie pushed past him and walked out.


    ¡°Take my words to heart.¡± Josie took two steps before she stopped. ¡°If you want your father to return, don¡¯t touch Paul, and don¡¯ty a finger on Justin either.¡±


    She had only taken a few steps when she spotted Dexter. He was leaning against a streetmp, his face obscured in the dim light. As she approached, he furrowed his brow. ¡°You¡¯ve been gone for quite a while.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie gathered all her strength to calm her chaotic mind and said, ¡°There¡¯s a long line because of the crowd.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brow.


    ¡°It¡¯s been ten minutes. How¡¯s it going now?¡± Josie asked.¡°Justin was exposed, Paul has been relocated, and our people are searching for him.¡± Dexter sounded apologetic.


    Josie had already known in advance, so she wasn¡¯t surprised at this moment. Seeing herck of reaction, Dexter took out a pack of cigarettes, selected one, and held it between his fingers. He was lost in thought.


    ¡°The person we encountered today is not Mr. Dalton.


    He knows. Josie cautiously asked, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve met him, and his aura doesn¡¯t match what it used to be.¡±


    Among the strong, one could identify others simply by their aura.


    ¡°Then who was that¡­¡± Josie¡¯s palms were sweaty. The streetlight cast a faint glow, illuminating Dexter¡¯s features. It was as if the two had traveled back in time. ¡°And why didn¡¯t Mr. Daltone in person?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps word got out or something held him up.


    A cigarette wavered between his fingers.Josie feared that he would encounter Arnold if he stayed there, so she quickly suggested, ¡°Let¡¯s go back and discuss it.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t seem surprised at all,¡± he suddenly remarked.


    Josie feignedposure. ¡°Paul has been missing for so long. Any news is the best thing. Whether he can be rescued or not, I am mentally prepared.¡±


    Dexter nodded slightly. ¡°Your hair is disheveled.¡±


    Regaining herposure, Josie casually ranher fingers through her hair. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Ultimately, the cigarette was returned to its original ce, untouched and unsmoked.As Dexter turned around, a figure slipped into the corner, disappearing from his peripheral vision.


    He narrowed his eyes slightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Dexter said, standing next to Josie. ¡°I brought you back to the country in such a manner, but in the end, we couldn¡¯t save him.¡±


    ¡°I already informed you that I am mentally prepared. I will go back first.¡±


    Josie walked briskly, without ncing behind her.


    Dexter stopped in his tracks, observing as she stumbled away. He slightly turned his body, casting a nce backwards.

 Chapter 1088

    Josie couldn¡¯t find a taxi.The country club was far away and secluded, and most people who went there had their own cars. E-taxis rarely came out this way. She stood there for a while, unsure whether to ask Mallory to pick her up, when a car pulled up and stopped in front of her.


    The car window rolled down, revealing Larry.


    ¡°Mr. Russell told me to take you home,¡± he said.


    Josie frowned. ¡°What about him?¡±


    ¡°La Oriele was busy tonight, so there were negotiations among the major stakeholders. Mr. Russell will be very busy.¡±


    Larry quickly added, as if he could sense her concern, ¡°It¡¯s a long drive for Ms. Whiteford toe here. Let¡¯s not bother her. Please, trust me.¡±


    After thinking it over, Josie decided to get in the car. It was gettingte, and she was worried that Grape would cry if she didn¡¯t see her.


    Larry drove silently the whole way. Josie felt restless, thinking about Arnold¡¯s words. She asked, ¡°Mr. Peeple, nothing bad will happen to Justin, right?¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Our people are gathering information, but over the past two years, Mr. Russell has cedmany of his own people inside. If there¡¯s any news, someone wille to the rescue, so there¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


    Hearing this, Josie finally felt relieved.


    ¡°Has he been doing this for the past two years?¡± Josie raised an eyebrow.Larry chuckled softly. ¡°Not just that. Mr. Russell personally takes care of anything rted to you.¡±


    Josie was surprised.


    ¡°Last year, Mrs. Olsen got seriously ill. Mr. Russell flew overseas to bring the best primary care doctor for a consultation. He was hands- on and deeply involved throughout the whole ordeal, showing more concern than her own son. Three months ago, the studio you used to manage faced a crisis and needed a lot of money to stay afloat. Mr. Russell didn¡¯t want your friends to feel like they were receiving charity, so he had me invest a sum of money anonymously. And the process of that esports team settling in Wavery? I personally handled it. At first, the team wasn¡¯t interested in investing, but after a quick look, Mr. Russell felt that the venue¡¯s design resembled your style, so he entrusted me with the task.¡±


    Larry spoke nonstop, leaving Josie stunned.She hadn¡¯t expected Dexter to put in so mucheffort and care for her over these two years.


    ¡°These are things that money can solve. You asked Mrs. Carroll to let Ms. Marilyn take care of your dog, Pepper, right? Mr. Russell would visit and feed Pepper from time to time.¡±


    These small details showed how much he missed her.The car was moving smoothly, but Josie found it hard to breathe. She rolled down the window and, after a moment, asked, ¡°He doesn¡¯t seem to be in the best of health-¡±


    Before she could finish her question, Larry made a sharp turn, cutting her off.


    ¡°What did you just ask?¡±


    ¡°Never mind,¡± Josie changed the subject. ¡°I remember when I left, Arnold¡¯s father was under Dexter¡¯s control. Is that still the case?¡±


    Larry hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Josie understood.


    When they arrived at the hotel, just before she got out of the car, she asked, ¡°Will Dexter be safe in La Oriele tonight?¡±


    Larry chuckled at this question. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    After asking, Josie realized how crazy she must be. How could she be concerned about Dexter¡¯s safety?


    Grape had just finished showering and was sitting on the bed,ughing at Calvin¡¯s antics. She didn¡¯t seem to miss her mother at all.


    With a helpless smile, Josie dragged her tired body inside.


    ¡°Mommy! You¡¯re back atst!¡± Grape eximed, rushing over.As Josie held her fragile body in her arms, she felt a sense of relief. ¡°Did you miss me?¡±

 Chapter 1089

    Grape eximed, ¡°Mommy, your dress is really beautiful!¡±


    Having lived abroad for many years, she had never seen Josie wear a gown. It was new to her.


    Josie found it hard to muster a smile. Calvin stepped out of the room at that moment. Two years had passed, yet he was still the same as before.


    ¡°The child is very adorable,¡± Calvin leaned against the door.Josie remained silent, which was taken as her agreement. ¡°Thank you for taking care of her.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to thank for? She looks so much like Dexter. She should be calling me Mr. Barrett.¡± After Calvin finished speaking, he whistled at Grape.


    Her identity was exposed with just a single sentence. Josie understood that as soon as she met an old acquaintance, Grape¡¯s identity could not be concealed. If Calvin could recognize her, Arnold would be able to as well.


    ¡°If she should call you Mr. Barrett, then what should she call me?¡± Mallory poked her head out of the bathroom.


    ¡°Ms. Whiteford!¡± Grape answered.


    Mallory gave a yful smile. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be just Ms. Whiteford.¡±


    Josie understood what she meant. She sat down, holding Grape, when she suddenly noticed a magazine on the table. The cover prominently featured Laura, who was dressed casually. Apanying her was a tall man, his face not captured in the photo.


    The title read: Tycoon from Wavery Sponsors a Handsome Young Man in Rivodia.Only then did she understand what Dexter had referred toFor a moment, Josie didn¡¯t take it to heart. Grape, leaning on her shoulder, said, ¡°Mommy, you smell like that man.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    With a hint of mischief, Calvin asked, ¡°Who?¡±


    As he spoke, his phone rang. He nced at the caller ID, and his expression changed. He looked at Josie and answered the call. ¡°Dexter.¡±


    Josie looked over.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    The person on the other end said something, to which Calvin responded, ¡°She¡¯s safe. How about your end? I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    Calvin hastily ended the call. He was about toleave when Josie asked, ¡°What happened to Dexter?¡±


    Calvin was somewhat reluctant to speak.


    ¡°Stay here with the child. Don¡¯t go out tonight,¡± he said. Then, turning to Mallory, he added, ¡°Keep an eye on her.¡±


    Something seemed off. Josie put down the child and immediately chased after him. ¡°What exactly happened? Did something happen to Dexter in La Oriele?¡±


    When it came to Paul and the others, it was hard for her not to be concerned. Moreover, the fire in La Oriele was still burning, and all the key figures were present. She needed to know.


    ¡°Dexter won¡¯t let me tell you. Please don¡¯t make things difficult for me; otherwise, he will deal with me¡­¡±


    ¡°If he does,e find me! I¡¯ll take the me for you! What exactly happened?¡±


    ¡°The fire is rather fierce. They need more help.¡±


    Josie nodded, and after three seconds, she put on a coat. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    Mallory, bewildered, came out right then, only to witness this scene. Josie instructed, ¡°Pleasetake care of Grape for the night. Thank you.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she noticed that Calvin remained motionless. She lightly kicked him, eximing, ¡°Hurry up!¡±


    Thetter clicked his tongue, but in the end, he still left with her.


    On the way to La Oriele, Calvin made several phone calls, all of which were orders to dispatch personnel. After he finished, Josie finally asked, ¡°How did Justin leave in the first ce?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. He only listens to Mallory.¡±


    ¡°He listens to her, but doesn¡¯t Mallory only listen to you?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t quite remember, but back then, he mentioned that he had some personal matters to take care of.¡±


    Even to this day, Calvin can vividly remember the determined expression on that young man¡¯s face.

 Chapter 1090

    When Dexter learned about this matter, his expression remained calm, and he stayed silent for a long time.Only after a while did he speak. ¡°Let him go. But make sure someone protects him from behind.¡±


    That was how Justin set off for Rivodia.Just the thought of the hardships that Justin and Paul had endured over the past two years was enough to cause waves of pain in Josie¡¯s heart.


    La Oriele was enormous, and at that moment, thick smoke billowed everywhere, indicating that the fire was far from being extinguished.


    Waves of intense heat immediately hit them as they entered.Calvin and Josie quickly walked in, but they didn¡¯t see Dexter.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± There were too many people. She had no choice but to shout.


    No one responded.


    ¡°Dexter! Dexter Russell!¡±


    Josie walked briskly, searching everywhere for that familiar figure. Even she herself didn¡¯t realize where the worry that crept into her heart came from.


    Just then, Larry, his face ckened, rushed out from inside, unable to stop coughing. Calvin quickly supported him. ¡°What happened? Where is Russell?¡±


    Smoke engulfed Larry¡¯s throat, rendering him unable to speak. He shook his head, then caught sight of Josie. ¡°Aren¡¯t you-¡±


    ¡°Where is Dexter?¡± Calvin asked frantically.


    ¡°He-¡± Larry had a fit of coughing thatsted for a while.A pang of anxiety gripped Josie¡¯s heart. She looked back at the raging fire behind her, unable to stop herself from staring into it.


    Just as she was about to step in, Larry finally recovered hisposure and hurriedly said, ¡°Mr. Russell is inside!¡±


    He pointed to an undamaged building.It was very safe there, yet the atmosphere was tense, with quite a number of police officers present.


    Dexter had given away his coat. He was now dressed in a ck shirt as he sat in a corner, idly fiddling with a lighter in his hand. Although he appeared perfectly fine sitting there, Josie felt an indescribable sense of brokenness emanating from him.


    ¡°Thank you for your assistance today, Mr. Russell, Without you, we wouldn¡¯t have been able to control the fire so quickly,¡± the leader said to Dexter.


    Dexter asked nonchntly, ¡°Were there no casualties?¡±


    ¡°The evacuation was executed promptly,resulting in no public casualties. However, a few attendants at La Oriele sustained injuries.¡± The other party appeared somewhat perplexed.


    ¡°It¡¯s strange that a fire of such intensity didn¡¯t im any lives.¡±


    When he said these words, Josie clearly saw a subtle twitch at the corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth.She knew that he was feeling proud at that moment.


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t the person in charge of La Oriele arrived yet?¡± the man asked in a deep voice.


    ¡°I¡¯ve just received the news that he¡¯s here!¡±


    No sooner had these words been spoken than amotion arose outside. A group of people hurried in, pushing past Calvin and Josie.


    She turned around, and to her surprise, she saw a man being escorted by bodyguards. His features were sharp, and a scar marked the corner of his eye. Who else could it be if not Arnold?


    A sense of heaviness settled in Josie¡¯s heart.


    But it seemed as though he hadn¡¯t noticed her at all. He walked straight into the room and said to the leader, ¡°I apologize for beingte. I was held up by some matters.¡±


    The other party furrowed his brow. ¡°And who are you?¡±


    ¡°The person in charge of La Oriele, Robyn Mills.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie stared at him intently. Just a few hours ago, he had pinned her against the restroom wall, admitting that he was Arnold.


    ¡°Finally, you¡¯ve arrived,¡± the man eximed, before providing a detailed ount of the situation. Upon finishing, he introduced, ¡°Allow me to introduce Mr. Russell from Wavery. We are indebted to him for his assistance in extinguishing the fire today.¡±


    Arnold turned around, only to find himself under the intense scrutiny of Dexter, who had been silently observing him for some time.


    Dexter slowly stood up.


    Both individuals were of simr stature, with one emanating a mysterious and enigmatic aura, while the other exuded a confident and upright demeanor. As they faced each other, it felt as though their meeting was fated.


    Arnold extended his hand with a smile. ¡°You remind me of someone I once knew, Mr. Russell.¡±

 Chapter 1091

    Dexter was not surprised at all, perhaps due to his prior mental preparation.He leaned forward and said to Arnold, ¡°Likewise, Mr. Mills.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re not exactly like him. That old friend of mine is in better health than you.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dexter did not respond.


    ¡°What a coincidence that you happened to be around today, Mr. Russell.¡± Arnold pulled out a cigarette and offered it to Dexter.


    Dexter declined. ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s quite a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°Once the matter is settled, I will present amodest gift as a token of my gratitude.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary. Since you say I look like an old friend of yours, consider this a modest gift from me today.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips quirked up.Arnold prodded his cheek with the tip of his tongue, ncing outside where the fire raged fiercely.


    ¡°It¡¯s a great gift.¡±


    Dexter bypassed Arnold, casting a nce at Josie, who had been standing behind him forquite some time.She instinctively took a step back.


    Calvin mouthed, ¡°She insisted oning.After the rted issues had been dealt with, dawn was breaking. Josie was dozing off in the corner, her face pale and looking unwell.


    People gradually dispersed, and Dexter casually picked up a nket. Just as he was about to drape it over Josie, she opened her eyes.


    ¡°Is it over?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Josie rubbed her neck, ncing outside. The fire had been extinguished, and at this point, the building was nothing but ruins. People were busy cleaning up the aftermath.


    Arnold was constantly dealing with the authorities, effectively acting as the person in charge of La Oriele.


    ¡°Does his audacity to move about openly indicate that his matters have been settled?¡±


    Dexter helped her up from the ground.


    ¡°Changing one¡¯s name and identity, thinking it can erase everything, is simply too naive.¡±


    He slowly exhaled, casting a nce at Arnold outside.


    Larry had already cleaned himself up and hurried over, holding a document in his hand. ¡°The person in charge is Robyn Mills, who took over two months ago.¡±


    Dexter took it over and nced at it a few times. ¡°He¡¯s nothing more than Mr. Dalton¡¯spdog.¡±


    Josie stared at her own toes in silence, not uttering a word.


    ¡°Does your heart ache?¡± he suddenly asked.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°I set your ex-lover¡¯s old haunt aze. Doesn¡¯t it hurt you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really weird.¡± Josie rolled her eyes and strode out.


    Larry quickly interjected, ¡°Ms. Warren came rushing overst night and couldn¡¯t find you. She was extremely anxious. Mr. Russell, you should apologize.¡±


    Dexter swiftly stuffed the documents into his arms, then hurriedly followed Josie from behind.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± He firmly grasped her slender wrist, forcing her to stop. ¡°You didn¡¯t seem surprised at all when you saw Arnold earlier.¡±


    Josie looked up, expressing her confusion.


    ¡°You¡¯ve met him already?¡±


    Josie averted her gaze, forced to admit that even after two years, Dexter could still see through her thoughts with just one nce.


    Yet she didn¡¯t feel guilty at all. She extended a finger, lightly poking his chest. ¡°Mr. Russell, having too keen an insight isn¡¯t always a good thing.¡±


    Dexter showed not the slightest hint of concern and scrutinized her closely.


    ¡°I¡¯ve thought about what you told me before.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten? A hundred days together.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows and recalled it. ¡°What is your answer?¡±


    Josie hesitated before retracting her hand. ¡°I¡¯m open to giving it a chance.¡±


    Dexter quickly grasped her true intentions.


    ¡°There¡¯s more to it than that.¡±


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t expect being with you to be all sunshine and rainbows, Mr. Russell. I have indeed encountered Arnold. He made threats against my daughter, and that ispletely uneptable. I require someone to safeguard Grape, and right now, you are the only option.¡±

 Chapter 1092

    Josie spoke slowly, deliberately avoiding any mention of the terms of the exchange between Arnold and herself.


    Not far away, Arnold noticed them. He lit a cigarette and leaned against a charred pir, watching intently.


    Dexter loosened his shirt cor. ¡°Grape is my daughter, and I will protect her no matter what.¡±


    ¡°That would be for the best.¡± She didn¡¯t deny the first part.After saying that, she left. Dexter followed closely behind at a steady pace. ¡°I will be staying in Rivodia for a while. Later, someone wille to pick you and Grape up and take you to my ce.¡±


    Josie did not respond to that.


    ¡°Yourpany took quite a risk using that photo for the cover.¡±


    On the top floor of Rivodia¡¯s tallest building, a man stood before the floor-to-ceiling window, casually surveying the scenery below.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know? Is that how you n to resolve the matter?¡±


    He let out a soft chuckle, ended the call, and casually tossed his phone onto the couch.


    Before long, someone would legally handle the newspaperpany.


    Sounds echoed from the bathroom, and a woman, her hair wet and wrapped in a bath towel, emerged. She walked out seductively


    and embraced him from behind.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Mr. Bastille? You seem quite upset.¡±


    When desire filled him, Morgan treated her like a human being. But now, without that desire, she was no different from a dog to him.


    ¡°Go find Ryan to get the money.¡±


    The woman¡¯s voice was soft and flirtatious. ¡°Mr. Bastille, what do you take me for? I don¡¯t want your money.¡±


    ¡°If you wait any longer, you won¡¯t get the money at all.¡±


    The sound of high heels echoed from outside, growing closer with each step. As they entered the office, the woman turned around in confusion, only to be met with the sight of a tall woman dressed in business attire. Her hair had a touch of green, and she stood at a distance.


    ¡°Who are you¡­¡±


    ¡°Leave,¡± the other party said indifferently.


    ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t leave now, forget about wearing that bath towel.¡±


    The woman was defiant, but seeing that Morgan made no move, she had no choice but to swallow her pride and quickly walk away.


    Within the expansive office, a hint of desire subtly filled the air.A magaziney on the table, its cover prominently featuring news from a week ago.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to be caught on camera.¡± Her voice trembled, silently pleading for understanding.


    ¡°Laura, you¡¯ve crossed the line too many times. in these past two years.¡±


    Morgan turned around, gazing at her intently.Laura looked up, fear evident in her eyes. ¡°It wasn¡¯t intentional. There won¡¯t be a next time. You know me. If I wanted to make it public, wouldn¡¯t have done it this way.¡±


    ¡°How would you have done it, then?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Laura¡¯s words reached the tip of her tongue, but she found herself unable to speak them.


    Morgan used the cigarette in his hand to lift a strand of her hair. ¡°Our rtionship ends here.¡±


    Laura waspletely flustered. She clung to Morgan¡¯s arm. ¡°I don¡¯t want it to end.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve always been obedient. Be obedient this time too, right? Be good. Don¡¯t embarrass me,¡± Morgan said with utmost gentleness.


    However, Laura trembled.


    ¡°For these past two years, I¡¯ve never interfered with whoever you were with. I¡¯ve helped you obtain whatever you wanted. Why don¡¯t you want me anymore? Are you tired of me? I suppose it makes sense. After two years, you should be tired.¡±


    Morgan shook his head.


    ¡°Our coboration is based on mutual support. You provide me with assistance, and I reciprocate. Currently, within the Olsen family, no one can rival your abilities, isn¡¯t that correct?¡±


    Yes, but¡­


    ¡°Then why?¡± She furrowed her brow in confusion.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Josie hase back.¡±


    He had just received the news.

 Chapter 1093

    When Josie was escorted into the mansion by Dexter¡¯s staff, everyone treated her with great respect.


    Rivodia was an ind city, without any coastline. However, it was surrounded by beautiful mountains that stretched across thendscape. Dexter¡¯s residence was located halfway up the mountain, offering a breathtaking view of the scenery at the foot of the mountain, especially at night.


    The affluent district was right here, and Dexter¡¯s residence was situated in the most desirable location.


    ¡°Mommy, why do we have to live with Mr. Russell?¡± Grape kept asking this question throughout the journey.


    Josie couldn¡¯t tell her the truth, so she could only say, ¡°Mr. Russell likes you and wants to see you every day. Don¡¯t you also like Mr. Russell? Aren¡¯t you happy?¡±


    Grape leaned on her shoulder. ¡°I like him, but you don¡¯t seem to like him. I don¡¯t want you to be unhappy.¡±


    At such a young age, she was clever and mischievous, with an exceptional ability to empathize. Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh, yet she also felt a sense offort.


    ¡°I¡¯m not unhappy.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Grape readily epted everything without any worries.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Numerous bodyguards stood at the entrance, yet they allowed Grape to run into the mansion without any hindrance.


    The staircase spiraled upward, and the ceiling was high. At that moment, Dexter was seated on the couch, having a video conference.


    ¡°The piece ofnd where Rivodia and Wavery meet has already been given away. Just as Mr. Russell said, once we let go, ording to Mr. Dalton¡¯s suspicions, he didn¡¯t dare to take over immediately. It remains at a stalemate there.¡±


    A sound could be heard from theptop.


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep it at a stalemate for now. In the end, it¡¯s uncertain whose hands this piece ofnd will fall into.¡± Larry spoke on behalf of Dexter.


    ¡°We¡¯ve also identified Robyn¡¯s identity. He¡¯s indeed Arnold, and-¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Grape had already run inside, shouting, ¡°Mr. Russell!¡±


    Dexter was sitting on the couch, his eyes closed in meditation. Upon hearing the sound, he immediately opened his eyes. The little girl had already thrown herself into his arms. He caught her steadily, and his previously expressionless face instantly lit up with a smile.


    ¡°Grape


    Mr. Russell, did you miss me?¡±


    Of course.¡±


    Larry promptly ended the video conference. However, sounds could still be heard from the other end. They were greatly surprised.


    Dexter picked up Grape and then lifted his gaze. Josie, dressed in a long skirt, was standing silently and elegantly at the entrance, holding a coat in her hand.


    A gleam of joy sparkled in his eyes as he walked over. ¡°Are you tired from the journey?¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze, setting her coat aside. ¡°It wasn¡¯t a long distance, so there¡¯s no question of being tired. I¡¯ve washed your coat. Here.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond; instead, he curved his lips into a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve prepared a room for you and Mommy, Grape. Would you like to take a look?¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡±


    ¡°Hold Mommy¡¯s hand, and let¡¯s go together.¡±


    When the soft little hand sped hers, Josie understood that Grape had already surrendered at the first line of defense.


    She shot Dexter a re.


    The room was spacious, offering a panoramic view. Dexter had intentionally set it up as a children¡¯s room, filled with various toys that children of that age would love. Josie couldn¡¯t help but frown. ¡°You¡¯re spoiling her with all of this.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was fixed on the girl ying on the carpet. ¡°Is she still my daughter if she doesn¡¯t even deserve these little things?¡±


    ¡°Dexter, I never said I would let her acknowledge you,¡± Josie said seriously.


    ¡°Nevertheless, I am her biological father. During these hundred days, we must live as a married couple.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s merely a transaction,¡± Josie said, devoid of anypassion.


    Dexter felt the anguish in his heart, yet he refrained from uttering a single word in response.

 Chapter 1094

    The private detective was taken aback to discover that Josie had returned directly to Rivodia.


    ¡°There have been some changes, but I didn¡¯t expect you toe back so soon.¡±


    Inside the cafe, Josie, dressed in a way that made it difficult to recognize her face, asked, ¡°Have you found out where my father is?¡±


    ¡°After the fire in La Oriele, our leads on Mr. Warren have disappeared. Someone is deliberately covering it up. I¡¯m investigating the person in charge of La Oriele.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, took out her phone, and handed over a photo. ¡°Take a look. Is this the person?¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ His name is Robyn Mills. Do you know him?¡± He looked at the photo again. ¡°However, the person in this photo seems to be younger.¡±


    Because back then, he was still known as Arnold.


    ¡°Have you found anything?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a Clusian who returned from overseas and was hired as a professional manager to take over La Oriele two months ago. He has some wealth.¡±


    Josie had learned all of this from Dexter, which left her somewhat disheartened.


    ¡°By the way, the person named Scar, whom we Investigated before, has been seen recently with this individual named Robyn. It seems they have a deep connection.¡±


    Josie took a deep breath.


    ¡°I have a grudge against this man. He was the one who kidnapped and took my father away.¡±


    The detective was surprised. ¡°This clue is crucial. Why didn¡¯t you tell me from the beginning?¡±


    ¡°By then, he had already disappeared. I didn¡¯t have much hope.¡± Josie then signaled for the waiter to bring the bill. ¡°Keep me informed of any developments at any time.¡±


    ¡°I just received news that Robyn is going to attend an investment meeting in Rivodia in two days.¡±


    After meeting with the detective, Josie stayed in the cafe for a while.She recalled the words Arnold had spoken that day and couldn¡¯t help but feel uncertain.


    Dexter has been controlling Edward for such a long time. What¡¯s his purpose? Is he just waiting for Arnold to personally hand over Paul?


    As this thought crossed her mind, Josie chuckled and shook her head. Why wouldDexter, a man who prioritizes his own interests above all else, consider my future to such an extent?


    She murmured, ¡°Josie, don¡¯t think too highly of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Mommy!¡±


    Grape¡¯s voice brought her back to reality. She turned around, only to see the girl running in, with Dexter following behind.


    ¡°How did you know I was here?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Peeple said he saw you when he was passing by.¡±


    Josie had onlye out after Grape fell asleep. However, it only took half an hour before she was found.Josie pursed her lips, looking at Dexter. He had a faint smile in his eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been watching me?¡±


    Josie stepped outside, holding the child in her arms, and a gentle breeze carried a delicate fragrance.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter¡¯s smile faded. ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Even though these hundred days are part of a deal, I don¡¯t appreciate being watched. Stopwhat you¡¯re doing,¡± Josie said whilebing Grape¡¯s hair.


    The child had just woken up from her nap, and her hair was a mess. Josie had no idea who had tied it up for her.


    Larry, standing to one side, was displeased. ¡°I was the one who ran into you when I came to deliver some documents. Mr. Russell-¡±


    ¡°You are very loyal,¡± Josie interrupted him. ¡°But don¡¯t base it on me.¡±


    She had a natural prejudice against Dexter.


    Larry wanted to say more, but Dexter raised his hand to interrupt him. ¡°I will learn to tie her hair gradually, so I won¡¯t intrude on your personal time in the future.¡±


    Grape spoke in a sweet and innocent tone, ¡°You did a great job. Mr. L didn¡¯t do well when he first braided my hair either!¡±


    Maybe Grape shouldn¡¯t have mentioned that.

 Chapter 1095

    Josie observed as Dexter¡¯s face visibly darkened, but the gloom quickly dissipated. Thank you, Grape.¡±


    As luck would have it, the phone Josie had set aside happened to ring. It was L.


    Dexter nced at her.She furrowed her brows, hesitating for a moment. Ultimately, thinking she had nothing to hide, she answered the phone.


    ¡°L.¡±


    ¡°Alice,¡± he said, still ustomed to calling her that, ¡°I just arrived at the hotel to find you, but they said you weren¡¯t here. Where did you go?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I already tell you? I have my own ns.¡±


    ¡°Mr. L!¡± Grape interrupted abruptly.Josie furrowed her brows, and Dexter immediately bent down to pick up the child in his arms. ¡°Let Mommy take the call first.¡±


    When L heard these words, he was stunned for a moment. Josie shot Dexter a re, but he seemed oblivious to any wrongdoing, He simply picked up Grape and went off to pick flowers.


    ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re with him, huh?¡±


    L, who had left the hotel to meet with Larry about the project, looked up and saw a harmonious scene not far away.


    The man didn¡¯t naturally exude warmth or approachability. However, when he held the child, there was a distinct sense of harmony.


    Josie sat to the side, constantly keeping an eye on the child.


    They appeared to be a genuine family.


    ¡°Yes. There¡¯s a lead on Paul. I have no choice but to rely on him.¡± She paused, feeling that her choice of words was incorrect. ¡°No, it¡¯s just a business deal.¡±


    L gripped the steering wheel tightly, wanting to say, ¡°Don¡¯t be with Dexter.¡± But as he nced at the documents urgently needing his signature beside him, he found himself unable to utter a single word.


    I have to rely on Dexter¡¯s resources as well, so what right do I have to ask Josie not to depend on him?


    At least she¡¯s honest.


    ¡°In that case, are you not going to consider what I¡¯ve said for now?¡± L asked with a bitter smile.


    Josie rose to her feet and walked to a secludedspot. She spoke politely, ¡°I never had those kinds of thoughts about you in the first ce. I¡¯m truly grateful for your care these past two years, Boss.¡±


    She spoke in a slightly humorous manner, as if it was the only way to alleviate the awkwardness.


    L observed Josie through the car window. She remained polite as always.


    It didn¡¯t seem quite right to say that he was in love with Josie. He just felt it was time to settle down, time to find someone to marry, and she seemed like a good choice.


    L sighed helplessly. ¡°It¡¯s all right. I hope your nes to a sessful conclusion.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Josie turned around, only to see Grape reaching for the small flowers in the garden on her tiptoes. Dexter, with his towering figure, stood in the wind, shielding her from everything.


    His identity as a father was particrly prominent at that moment.


    ¡°Are you done?¡± he asked in a deep voice.


    Josie didn¡¯t respond. Instead, she held onto Grape¡¯s hand and began to walk away. She didn¡¯t look back, so she couldn¡¯t see the contented, faint smile in the man¡¯s eyes.


    L had already gotten out of the car and handed the documents over to Larry. As the two exchanged words, L asionally nced at Dexter


    Dexter noticed and turned back.


    ¡°Mr. Keller.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell.¡± L struggled to muster a smile.


    Dexter motioned for Larry to pass him the contract and quickly skimmed through it. ¡°I appreciate your care for her and the child over the past two years,¡± he said.


    L waited for Dexter¡¯s next words.


    ¡°Forty million?¡± Dexter handed the contract back, his expression serious. ¡°Double it. Ask thewyer to prepare a new agreement. I¡¯ll personally sign it.¡±


    L hesitated. He felt a bit ufortable for a moment. ¡°Mr. Russell, it seems as though you¡¯re attempting to influence me with money.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 1096

    ¡°I¡¯m not. It¡¯s a thank-you gift, Dexter said, carrying himself with measured grace, devoid of any hint of deceit or ill-intent. Instead, he radiated a deep sense of peace and propriety.


    ¡°The two years I spent with Alice, and the year and a bit with Grape, are invaluable. You can¡¯t put a price tag of eighty million on them, Mr. Russell, Please take it back.¡±


    As men, they naturally harbored a sense ofpetition. L was not willing to fall behind so easily.


    Dexter remained calm and said, ¡°Mr. Keller, you are indeed bold, investing heavily in the emerging industry of e-sports. This field will have great potential for development in the future. Your vision is not wrong. If my memory serves me right, it¡¯s the transfer period now, isn¡¯t it? Doesn¡¯t buying and selling yers require money? And purchasing a seat would also cost a significant amount, wouldn¡¯t it?¡± Dexter smirked. ¡°If I were you, I would take the eighty million.¡±


    His eyes were calm, yet L could clearly perceive his underlying message.


    While L remained silent, Dexter reached out his hand. ¡°You have potential, Mr. Keller.¡±


    It was nearly impossible to refuse.


    In the end, L gave in and shook handswith him. Eighty million was no small sum.Dexter tightened his grip instinctively. ¡°By the way, her name isn¡¯t Alice. It¡¯s Josie. Two years is nothing. I¡¯ve known her since I was eight.¡±


    That day marked the beginning of the hundred- day contract, and Dexter nned to deal with L first.


    The warmth quickly drained from L¡¯s hand as Dexter released his grip.


    Yes, they even have a child.


    Two dayster, Josie nned to attend the investment meeting.


    ¡°With what status?¡± Dexter sat in his study in the mansion halfway up the mountain. It was peculiar that Grape didn¡¯t like to y with girls¡¯ toys, but she was rather interested in his collection of books and contracts.


    Both adults never took their eyes off the child.


    ¡°I consider myself a talent who has returned to her homnd. Surely Rivodia would be unable to amodate me. Besides, you¡¯re powerful, Mr. Russell. Can¡¯t you handle such a small matter?¡± Josie said, mocking him.


    Dexter cast her a nce. ¡°I have no intention of letting you continue associating with Arnold.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s Robyn, not Arnold.¡±


    Josie always knew how to make him angry.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°He has assumed countless identities, yet his affection for you has never wavered.¡±


    His words didn¡¯t sound pleasant to the ears. Josie retorted, ¡°I¡¯ve also changed quite a few identities, but aren¡¯t you still sticking around me like a piece of gum, Mr. Russell?¡±


    In the end, Josie decided to go in person. With her status as an architect, coupled with Larry¡¯s arrangements behind the scenes, she was able to enter the venue directly.


    Robyn, no, Arnold, was standing on the stage, delivering a speech.


    Josie stood beneath the stage, not watching for long when Dexter silently entered. He took a seat in the corner, diagonally opposite her, so that she could see him as soon as she lifted her head.


    She took a deep breath.


    The staff seemed surprised by his arrival, reporting something to him. Dexter responded indifferently. It was unclear how much he actually absorbed.


    He had always been adept in such situations,and it had been the same every day during the two years they had lost contact.He texted: What are you looking at?


    She replied: The capitalist.


    A faint smile appeared at the corner of Dexter¡¯s mouth. He replied: It¡¯s chilly today. Remember to wear a coat when you go out.Josie nced at her exposed arms. It isn¡¯t even autumn yet. Where does the chille from?


    She recalled that Dexter used to dislike hot weather in the past, but now he was extremely sensitive to the cold. What could be the reason behind this sudden change in his body?


    Josie was considering whether to respond or not when she received a message from an unfamiliar number.


    The message said: Why aren¡¯t you paying attention when you¡¯re here to listen to my speech?


    She immediately raised her head.


    Arnold stood on the stage, giving her a disturbing smirk.

 Chapter 1097

    For a moment, Josie felt like she had returned to the beginning.


    She locked eyes with him, filled with resentment. However, Arnold could still speak eloquently, asionally ncing at Dexter¡¯s position.


    She lowered her head and replied, You haven¡¯t divorced Summer yet, have you? If she finds out, she¡¯ll probably rush to Rivodia.


    During the intermission, Arnold replied from an unnoticed corner, I guess at this moment her household register would read ¡°widowed.¡± My name is Robyn, Ms. Warren.


    Josie took a deep breath, and at that moment, a figure entered her peripheral vision. It was Scar, dressed in a suit. He walked over to Arnold and said something, to which thetter nodded. Then, he left.


    She furrowed her brows, turned around to follow, and had just stepped out of the venue when Dexter¡¯s call came through. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I saw Scar. I want to ask him about it myself.¡±


    ¡°Calm down. He won¡¯t tell you.¡±


    ¡°Then what should I do? Just sit around and do nothing?¡±


    Right then, Arnold sent a photo. It was a picture of Grape frolicking in the garden.


    She frozepletely. Arnold had already discovered her location.


    Josie gripped her phone, trembling. ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    Her voice didn¡¯t sound right. The man in the venue stood up and walked to a quiet ce.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°You promised me you would take good care of Grape.¡±


    ¡°Josie, don¡¯t act recklessly. My men are stationed outside, and the senior officer in charge of this case is on his way to Rivodia. Your actions will only disrupt the n!¡± Dexter said anxiously.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking you to promise me that you will protect Grape!¡±


    Josie leaned against the icy wall, watching as Scar got into a car. Years of obsession made her walk quickly over to the other car and follow him.


    ¡°Of course I can do this! Where did you go, Josie?¡±


    ¡°I want to find the answer from two years ago.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    After Josie finished speaking, she promptlyhung up the phone and stepped on the elerator.


    Scar headed toward the city center, where the traffic was heavy. Josie was on high alert, keeping a close eye on Scar¡¯s car. To her surprise, his destination was La Oriele, which was currently undergoing renovations. It was considerably quieter than usual.


    He had already noticed the car tailing him from behind. He elerated around the bend, attempting to shake Josie off, but she had significantly improved over the past two years. Her driving skills were excellent, and she ended up crashing straight into the rear of his car.


    ¡°Damn!¡± Scar¡¯s forehead hit the steering wheel. He hadn¡¯t expected her to be so reckless with her life.


    He got out and mmed the car door shut. ¡°Who the hell are you? How dare you mess with me?¡±


    Josie had already gotten out of the car. She confronted Scar directly, one hand behind her back, gripping a knife.


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Scar. Don¡¯t you remember?¡± she asked with a gentle smile on her face.


    ¡°Mrs. Carter?¡± he eximed, partly driven by guilt and partly by surprise.


    ¡°I wanted to catch up on old times. Why did you run?¡± Josie walked over, patted his shoulder, and moved behind him. ¡°Didn¡¯t your boss tell you I was back?¡±


    ¡°My boss? You mean Robyn? He¡¯s-¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Josie suddenly drew her knife, pressing it against his neck with one hand restraining him. Her grip was incredibly strong.


    Scar was forced to tilt his head back, but he wasn¡¯t scared. ¡°Mrs. Carter, you chose the wrong ce to confront me!¡±


    As soon as these words were uttered, several undercover bodyguards emerged from a nearby location, each of them equipped with weapons.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t fret,¡± Josie said, chuckling softly. ¡°There¡¯s no need to be anxious. I simply wish to inquire about a few matters.¡±

 Chapter 1098

    Inside the venue, Dexter couldn¡¯t reach Josie on the phone and decided to leave.


    The speech had ended, and Arnold stepped off the stage, blocking the path of the man who was leaving. ¡°Mr. Russell, we meet again.¡±


    ¡°So, your speech was so enlightening that you n to give me a private lesson, huh?¡± Dexter put away his phone, responding calmly without changing his expression.


    ¡°You must be joking. My modest skills are hardly worth showing off in front of you, Mr. Russell,¡± Arnold said with a smirk. ¡°From the moment I met you, I felt a connection. I wonder if I have the honor of having tea with you.¡±


    People wereing and going. A chilling glint flickered in Dexter¡¯s eyes. ¡°If all you have is chamomile tea, then no thank you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s more, of course.¡±


    In the secluded reception room, filled with vintage artifacts, the tea Arnold had prepared was no longer chamomile.


    ¡°Actually, Mr. Russell, the reason for inviting you today is not just for tea, but to watch a y.¡±


    Dexter toyed with the cup in his hand, his expression unreadable. ¡°Is it the scenario I¡¯m thinking of?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see if we¡¯re on the same page.¡± Arnold chuckled lightly, signaling his assistant to turn on the television.


    It was a surveince feed. In it, Josie was seen holding Scar hostage, surrounded by people.


    Dexter furrowed his brow.


    ¡°Is it?¡± Arnold asked.


    ¡°You understand me as always, Mr. Mills.¡±


    Arnold began tough.


    ¡°Mrs. Carter, I can¡¯t say anything when you do this to me,¡± Scar spoke with indifference.


    ¡°I know it¡¯s difficult for you, and I don¡¯t want you to say too much. All you have to do is tell me how you took my father in the first ce.¡±


    Under the sunlight, Josie resembled a female warrior attending a duel alone. She was ruthless. Her de had already drawn blood.


    She knew she couldn¡¯t determine Paul¡¯s whereabouts, but she wanted to understand the details of the past.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me,¡± Scar remained nonchnt.


    Josie sighed. ¡°Scar, it seems your family situation isn¡¯t too good either. If it wasn¡¯t for the heavy debts you owed, you wouldn¡¯t have hadto risk your life for Arnold. But money is a minor issue, people are what matter. Your sister is married now, isn¡¯t she?¡±


    Over the past two years, she had conducted extensive investigations on those associated with Paul, such as Scar¡¯s family situation. His sister had once been vited, a fact unknown to her current husband. However, regardless of the man, it would be a matter of concern.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Feeling the palpable tension from Scar, Josie scoffed, ¡°I have no intention of making things difficult for someone of my own gender, but if it¡¯s for my father, I can afford to be selfish just this once.¡±


    ¡°If I killed you today, could you still spread the word?¡±


    Scar became agitated. He cared deeply for his sister, and at that moment, he was enraged.


    ¡°Then go ahead. Let them all kill me! The moment youy a hand on me, my people will immediately spread the news! Go ahead and give it a try.¡±


    Scar took a deep breath. He dared not gamble


    anymore. He could only stare nkly in the direction of the surveince camera.


    The two individuals in the office could discern the helplessness and plea for help in his eyes.


    Arnold didn¡¯t pay any attention to it. He chuckled and said to Dexter, ¡°She has certainly grown up in thest two years.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips quirked up. He asked teasingly, ¡°You know your subordinates. Do you think he will speak?¡±


    ¡°No one can deny the importance of their loved ones¡¯ lives. This only demonstrates that he possesses a sense of conscience.¡±


    ¡°Are you not going to say anything?¡± Josie exerted more pressure.


    Scar shut his eyes. ¡°I will speak.¡±

 Chapter 1099

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me who kidnapped Paul, Scar slowly opened his eyes. ¡°Back then, he only trusted people he knew and was highly cautious of strangers.¡±


    Josie was aware of this. That was why her curiosity was aroused. She wondered how they managed to abduct Paul right from the bustling city district.


    ¡°The one responsible for this matter was Xanthe.¡±


    The moment the name was mentioned, it hit Josie like a sudden shock, leaving her frozen in ce.


    Dexter¡¯s eyebrows furrowed slightly. Although he didn¡¯t show much of a reaction, it was clear that he was taken aback. He almost crushed the teacup in his hand.


    ¡°None of us had any influence, but Xanthe did. All she needed to do was to tell Paul that she was Dexter¡¯s biological mother. For your sake, Paul would surely go with her.¡±


    Scar could still vividly recall the scene from that day.


    On a street by the sea, Paul patiently waited, anticipating his daughter¡¯s arrival. However, at that moment, Xanthe tapped on the car window. ¡°You must be Paul, right?¡±


    ¡°And you are?¡±


    ¡°My name is Xanthe, Dexter¡¯s mother. It¡¯s nice to finally meet you.¡±


    Over the years, Xanthe¡¯s demeanor was beyond question, especially with her eyes that were as indifferent as Dexter¡¯s.


    Later, Xanthe told him that she wanted to have a private discussion with him about the matters concerning their two children.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    After Scar finished speaking, he looked at Josie. ¡°It¡¯s as simple as that. Paul just left with her.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but let tears slide down her cheeks. It¡¯s all because of me that Pop disappeared. He wants me to be treated well in my husband¡¯s family. That¡¯s why he chose to leave with Xanthe.


    Josie was almost out of breath, and the grip on the knife in her hand inevitably loosened.


    ¡°You people are shameless!¡±


    Sheposed herself, then tightened her grip on the knife once again. ¡°What happened next?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Why did Xanthe do this?¡±


    ¡°She was short of money.¡± Scar prompted her to ask the question before he answered. ¡°Dexter cut off her financial resources. Don¡¯t forget, she still has a son to raise. This is her biggest vulnerability. She can do anything for money.¡±


    Even if it meant trapping Dexter in unrighteousness and injustice.


    Never had Josie imagined that such aplex disappearance case was actually so simple behind the scenes.


    If she were to pursue the matter, the disappearance of Paul could be attributed to Dexter.


    ¡°Mrs. Carter,¡± Scar said with a smile, ¡°actually, you shouldn¡¯t me my boss. If Dexter hadn¡¯t cut off his own mother¡¯s financial resources, we wouldn¡¯t have had a way in.¡±


    Josie trembled all over.


    Scar held her hand, pointing the tip of the knife in the direction of the surveince camera.


    ¡°Your knife should be pointed at Dexter.¡±


    In the surveince footage, the knife was aimed right at Dexter¡¯s forehead.


    He sat in ce, quickly understanding Arnold¡¯s purpose for the day. He sat there quietly as if a tsunami was raging in his heart.


    The woman he loved was almost reduced to ashes under the sunlight.


    She was falling apart.


    At this point, the rift between the two individuals seemed almost impossible to mend.


    Atst, Arnold saw the effect he had been hoping for. He turned to the man beside him. ¡°Dexter, a few days ago, you gave me a wee gift. Today, I¡¯m returning the favor.¡±


    The two were indeed adversaries who had been entangled in conflict for many years. They knew best where to strike to cause the most pain.


    Dexter nced sideways, locking eyes with him.


    This was a strategy Arnold had thought of two years ago to use the blood ties he couldn¡¯t sever to torment Josie¡¯s heart.


    ¡°So, do you like the gift?¡±

 Chapter 1100

    Under the dim light, Dexter¡¯s expression remained unreadable.Facing the casual scrutiny of this old acquaintance, he showed no reaction. He simply caressed the watch on his wrist and asked, ¡°How long have you been nning this?¡±


    Arnold avoided the question and instead said, ¡°Do you know what went wrong? You were too kind to those you should have taken advantage of, like Wyatt. He could have been a valuable asset, but you personally removed him from the game, thus providing me with such a great opportunity.¡±


    Dexter simply looked at him.


    ¡°Just one night,¡± Arnold added.


    He had spent one night nning something that wouldst for two years. It could indeed be considered a wless n.


    Dexter sped his hands together. ¡°What about having Rachel pretend to be Liana?¡±


    When the topic of his proud achievement came up, Arnold¡¯s smile widened. ¡°It didn¡¯t take long either. Summer came to me immediately after finding out that Josie was Liana. It took me an hour toe up with a response. Back then, Josie had already ced immense trust in me. Extracting a strand of hair from her for DNA testing was a simple task. By the way, I heardthat after I left Wavery, she put in a lot of effort to expose Rachel.¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Arnold rose leisurely and patted Dexter¡¯s shoulder. ¡°She was kidnapped for a full two days, yet the child is still safe. She must be one lucky woman.¡±


    He intentionally provoked Dexter, and even to this day, thetter could still recall the terrified Josie trembling to the core. She had stood there as if she was about to shatter.


    Dexter nced sideways at the monitor. Josie was already surrounded on all sides, about to be apprehended. ¡°Let her go.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s in Rivodia. Someone wille to rescue her even if I don¡¯t let her go.¡±


    Everything that happened today was a setup orchestrated personally by Arnold. His intention was not only to reveal the truth to Josie but also topletely extinguish any remaining hope she might have had and to deal a heavy blow to Dexter.


    Indeed, no sooner had the words been spoken than another group of people arrived at the scene.


    She had already been restrained by Scar, who said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Josie stopped struggling, lifting her head to seea car speeding toward her. It came to a steady halt right in front of her, and from it emerged a familiar figure.


    It was Morgan.


    He seemed as if he hadn¡¯t slept well in a long time. Yet, when he looked at Josie, his gaze was unwavering.


    ¡°Let her go.¡±


    Scar scanned the crowd. ¡°You¡¯re ying the knight in shining armor, huh, Mr. Bastille?¡±


    ¡°What, am I not qualified just because Bastille Group has fallen?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean that. But given Josie¡¯s unique status, I can¡¯t hand her over to you.¡±


    Morgan leaned against the car, his gaze fixed on Josie. ¡°So, you¡¯re determined to fight me to the death.¡± He nced at the ruined walls of La Oriele behind him. ¡°I can take a risk and even apany you to the police station. But can your boss afford to take that risk?¡±


    Such a significant incident had urred in Rivodia. They were fortunate enough not to be fired from their jobs. Indeed, they couldn¡¯t afford the reputation of inciting a public brawl.


    Scar hesitated for a moment, then pulled out his phone to call Arnold.


    ¡°Let her go,¡± Arnold said decisively. ¡°Show Mr. Bastille some respect.¡±


    At that moment, Josie was pushed out. She was disheveled, but Morgan caught her steadily, asking her in a low voice, ¡°Are you all right?¡±


    The affection in his expression was unmistakable.


    Dexter closed his eyes.


    Arnold observed his surroundings and yfully remarked, ¡°It must be difficult for you to witness her receiving protection from others, isn¡¯t it? Nevertheless, this is not the first urrence. You should be ustomed to it by now.¡±

 Chapter 1101

    Dexter remained motionless, softly echoing Arnold¡¯s words, ¡°One night, one hour.¡±


    Arnold stood behind him.A faint smile appeared on his face as he suddenly asked, ¡°Arnold, do you know why you lost to me in the first ce?¡±


    Arnold narrowed his eyes. It was evident from the current situation that he had already won.


    ¡°You are too superficial.¡±


    After Dexter finished speaking, he stood up and walked out without hesitation.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Arnold couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Dexter stood still, tilting his head slightly. ¡°It¡¯s time for me to leave.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression changed. He furrowed his brows, sensing that something was wrong. ¡°Impossible¡­ Did you-¡±


    Just then, his phone, which was on the table, began to vibrate vigorously. He nced at the caller ID, his expression growing even grimmer.


    ¡°Speak!¡±


    After a while, Arnold stared intently at Dexter¡¯s figure, his resentment intensifying.


    Dexter became even more rxed. ¡°I forgot to mention that before Justin entered La Oriele, we imnted a tracking chip in him. No matter where he goes, I can always find him.¡±


    Arnold felt a chill run through his body.


    ¡°I know you too well, Arnold. You might think that I would analyze your thought process, guessing that you wouldn¡¯t put Paul and Justin together. But sometimes, reverse thinking is necessary. How long do you think it took me to devise this n?¡± Dexter asked in return.


    Arnold¡¯s eyes turned cold.


    ¡°One minute.¡± Dexter turned around. ¡°Of course, we must also include the time spent acting with you here today.¡±


    ¡°Impossible¡­¡±


    ¡°So, it¡¯s La Oriele, huh? You¡¯re certainly cautious. What a pity.¡±


    He had just received news that they were eventually found in La Oriele.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for Arnold bringing Dexter and Josie here, he would never have let his guard down. Today was an ident, but also an opportunity.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter strode out of the building. Larry had been waiting outside for a long time. ¡°Arnold iscautious, constantly changing locations. In the end, we found them in La Oriele. Justin is injured.¡±


    Dexter walked briskly. ¡°What about Paul?¡±


    ¡°He¡­ He¡¯s alright,¡± Larry carefully stated. ¡°However, over the past two years, his mind has suffered significant trauma. He can barely recognize anyone now.¡±


    In the car, Josie finally regained herposure.


    Upon seeing an old acquaintance, she asked in confusion, ¡°What did you mean by the Bastille Group has fallen?¡±


    Morgan carefully tended to her minor hand injury and said in a nonchnt tone, ¡°A member of the Bastille family had breached ethical standards and was under scrutiny by the authorities. Almost the entire family was implicated.¡±


    It must be serious.


    ¡°How could this happen? You¡¯ve always been so cautious.¡±


    ¡°I am cautious, but there are those who are even more cautious than me.¡± Morgan managed a smile. ¡°Take your ex-husband, for example. If it weren¡¯t for him, perhaps the Bastille Group wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed deeply. ¡°In the two years that I was gone, were you all still at each other¡¯s throats?¡±


    ¡°There are some things that can¡¯t be solved just because you left.¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected Dexter to be so ruthless as to reduce the Bastille Group to such a state.


    Morgan now appeared forlorn,cking the lively and energetic disposition he once possessed. He truly seemed pitiable.

 Chapter 1102

    After carefully securing the finalyer of gauze, Morgan asked casually, ¡°Since I let you go back then, shouldn¡¯t you tell me how these past two years have been for you?¡±


    Josie averted her gaze. ¡°I have a daughter now.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s expression darkened slightly.


    An hourter, Morgan finally met the daughter Josie had mentioned.


    The little girl was sitting on the carpet, ying with blocks. Her eyebrows and eyes resembled Josie¡¯s.


    So, it wasn¡¯t a lie.


    ¡°What¡¯s her name?¡±


    ¡°You can call her Grape. She¡¯s one and a half years old now. Please make yourselffortable. I¡¯m going to change my clothes,¡± Josie said. The information she had received today had left her emotionally drained. Returning to Dexter¡¯s residence, she felt suffocated.


    When she emerged again, Morgan was already sitting on the carpet, thoroughly enjoying his conversation with Grape. He had always been charming, and coaxing a child came naturally to him.


    Josie stood on the stairs and could see theforced smile on his face.He used to be so lively and spirited, but he looked weary at that moment.


    ¡°Mommy! He¡¯s good at building blocks too!¡± Grape shouted towards Josie.


    Josie smiled and was about to descend the stairs when she heard the sound of a car. It was the same car Dexter had taken earlier in the morning. He had returned.


    Through the ss, she could see his hurried figure, with Larry trailing behind him.Josieposed herself and finally descended the stairs.


    ¡°Josie!¡±


    As soon as Dexter stepped through the door, he called out to her, a hint of joy sparkling in his eyes. Larry shared the same sentiment.


    He didn¡¯t know where Morgan had taken her, but with Grape here, he knew she would return.


    And he was right.


    Josie descended the stairs and stood opposite him. She remained calm as she said, ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±


    Dexter noticed her injury and furrowed hisbrows immediately. However, his gaze quickly shifted from her to Morgan, who was not far away. He raised an eyebrow slightly. ¡°So it¡¯s Mr. Bastille who brought you back.¡±


    Morgan stood up and approached them. ¡°It seems you¡¯re not pleased with my visit, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie felt almost numb, likely because Scar¡¯s words had led her to disregard Dexter¡¯s feelings even more.She didn¡¯t see any issue with bringing Morgan home.


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Dexter concealed the joy in his eyes. ¡°Grape, have you greeted him?¡±


    ¡°Yes. He¡¯s Mr. Bastille,¡± Grape said in her sweet voice,pletely oblivious to the tension among the adults.


    Josie took a deep breath, not wanting to beataround the bush. ¡°Morgan saved me and brought me back. Inviting him in for a cup of tea shouldn¡¯t be too much to ask, right?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s not too much. Stay for dinner too, Dexter said calmly. ¡°I¡¯ll instruct the housekeeper to prepare.¡±


    ¡°No thanks. One should never rely on charity, even if it means starving. Isn¡¯t that right, Mr. Russell?¡± After finishing his words, Morganwalked past them and left. Halfway through, he stopped and reminded Josie, ¡°No matter what, your own health is the most important.¡±


    She nodded slightly.


    After he left, Larry, who was behind Dexter, was eager to say something. ¡°Actually-¡±


    ¡°Forget it. She probably doesn¡¯t want to hear it now,¡± Dexter interrupted him. ¡°You go out first.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The two exchanged a meaningful nce. Josie also signaled the housekeeper to take the child away.


    Suddenly, the room fell silent.


    ¡°After I return to Wavery, I will address the matter concerning Xanthe,¡± he stated directly.


    It appears that he overheard Scar¡¯s words.


    Maintaining aposed expression, Josie inquired, ¡°And what happens next?¡±

 Chapter 1103

    Dexter adjusted his cor. ¡°How should we handle this?¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie blurted out, ¡°Even if she¡¯s my biological mother, can she just hand me over like that?¡±


    She was well aware of their rtionship, yet she insisted on rubbing salt in Dexter¡¯s wounds.


    He looked at her. ¡°She currently lives at No. 3021, Midtown Boulevard, Slirroc, Wavery. If you want to meet her in person, I can arrange it for you.¡±


    He was able to recite the detailed address. Josie¡¯s eyes flickered with surprise, but it quickly faded. ¡°My father has been ill, and these past two years, he has suffered greatly. His whereabouts are still unknown. Is it too much to ask for her to be held ountable?¡±


    Dexter gazed at the sunlight outside as Morgan drove away. ¡°Not at all. Can you find a legal way? If you can¡¯t, I¡¯ll create one for you,¡± he said.


    Josie narrowed her eyes, almost in disbelief. ¡°Dexter, the way you speak makes one doubt if you¡¯re really her biological child.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    That was his mother. Despite the strained rtionship they had maintained over the past few years, the bond of blood was still there. Yet, he was willing to hand Josie the knife, to personally take the life of his own mother¡­


    ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡± Josie turned around, unsure of how to face him.


    Behind her, footsteps approached slowly and gently. Dexter said, ¡°Whatever I owe you, you don¡¯t need to lift a finger. Consider me your de.¡±


    Josie turned her head.


    The icy tone in Dexter¡¯s voice was like a knife, instinctively making people flinch.


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in Xanthe¡¯s fate. Sooner orter, she will pay the price. When that timees, I won¡¯t consider the rtionship between you two. However, what you¡¯re saying now, Dexter, I truly believe, you are heartless.¡±


    Each of her words pierced his heart. ¡°Initially, they said Xanthe was mentally ill, and Arnold led me to suspect you were too. Now, I believe, you truly are.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression remained calm, like still waters. However, if one were to look closely, one could clearly see the turmoil hidden in the depths of his eyes.


    ¡°Mental illness?¡± He chuckled lightly, taking off his watch and wiping it clean with a tissue. ¡°If you think I have it, what about Grape? When she grows up, will she treat her mother the same way?¡±


    A pnded swiftly on his cheek. Josie¡¯s chest heaved as she spoke. ¡°No father in this world would ever speak of his own daughter in such a way!¡±


    Dexter subtly turned his face away, a trace of blood at the corner of his mouth making him appear even more sinister.


    He grabbed Josie¡¯s wrist. ¡°So now you admit that Grape is my daughter, huh?¡±


    Josie struggled. ¡°You never expected her birth in the first ce, otherwise, why would you put me in such an embarrassing situation? Tell me, if Grape grows up and finds out that she was conceived because her father forced himself on me on the rooftop, what will happen?¡±


    That remark indeed infuriated Dexter, causing his grip to tighten. ¡°I have always looked forward to her birth.¡±


    Josie locked eyes with him, clearly showing disbelief.


    Yet in that moment, Dexter vividly remembered the two years she had been gone. He deeply regretted not being able to keep her by his side with a child. Perhaps, if there had been such a bond, she wouldn¡¯t have had the heart to leave.


    He didn¡¯t say anything and released Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s up to you whether you believe it or not.¡±


    Dexter ced the watch on the table beside him, gently pressed it, and a recording began to y.


    It was undeniably Arnold¡¯s voice.


    The conversation between the two was apanied by some background noise, yet it was evident that it had just taken ce.


    Josie furrowed her brow. She hadn¡¯t anticipated that Dexter had recently been involved in a confrontation with Arnold.

 Chapter 1104

    Dexter had already turned and left, entering the yroom filled with toys. He squatted down with a smile. ¡°Is it really that enjoyable?¡±


    Upon seeing him enter, Grape immediately put down her toy, intending to go out and find her mother.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Dexter¡¯srge hand stopped her, pulling her into his embrace. The scent of milk on her was overwhelming, more soothing than any sleeping pill he had ever taken. ¡°Let Mommy have some peace for a while. Don¡¯t disturb her just yet.¡±


    Grape clearly didn¡¯t quite understand, but she obediently nestled in Dexter¡¯s arms. Her tiny fingers touched the corner of his mouth. ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯re bleeding.¡±


    It¡¯s because of your mother. Upon hearing her address him, Dexter felt a pang of sorrow. He raised an eyebrow. ¡°Would you mind wiping it clean for me?¡±


    As Grape clumsily wiped for him, the door was suddenly pushed open from the outside. Josie¡¯s chest heaved as she looked at the man and child huddled together. ¡°Where is Paul?¡±


    Startled by Josie¡¯s actions, Grape eximed, ¡°Mommy¡­


    Josie¡¯s hand, clutching the watch, was trembling. She repeated once more, ¡°Where isPaul?¡±


    Dexter patted Grape¡¯s back gently before he stood up. ¡°He¡¯s getting checked at the hospital.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed tightly, her expression a mix of apprehension and disbelief as if she was close to home yet feeling incredulous. ¡°Is he safe?¡±


    Dexter gave her a reassuring answer. ¡°He¡¯spletely safe. He won¡¯t be taken away again this time.¡±


    Josie exhaled deeply. ¡°The address.¡±


    Grape scampered into her arms, clinging to her legs. ¡°Wherever Mommy goes, take me with you.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t exin it to her daughter. All she could do was gently pat her daughter¡¯s head, then fix her gaze on Dexter.


    He slowly shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re too agitated right now. It¡¯s not suitable for a meeting. Rest for the night, go tomorrow.¡±


    Josie remained stubbornly unmoved, absolutely unwilling toply.


    As such, Dexter asked, ¡°Josie, do you still wish to see him?¡±


    She could only muster all her strength to calmher emotions. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then you should listen to me.¡±


    Thus, Josie had no choice but to lie in bed, forcing herself to sleep. However, after years of searching that had finally led to her redemption, she found it impossible to fall asleep. She tossed and turned, staring at the moonlight outside the window.


    Outside, things gradually quieted down, and Grape had been coaxed to sleep by the housekeeper.Before long, there was a sound at the door, followed by the approach of steady footsteps.


    Startled, Josie sat up in bed, silently staring in the direction of the doorway.


    Dexter stepped into the light. ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. The cooking toy that Grape likes was left in your room. She mentioned before bedtime that she wants to y with it tomorrow.¡±


    He came to retrieve the toy.


    ¡°Mhm,¡± Josie said softly.


    Following that was the sound of him searching for his toys. She clenched the corner of the nket. ¡°It¡¯s too dark. Turn on the light.¡±


    Dexter evidently hesitated for a moment but finally switched on the wall light. There was illumination, but it wasn¡¯t harsh enough to hurt her eyes.


    The toy was broken. He sat on the ground, fixing it with his eyes cast down.


    Josie watched his movements, letting out a scoff. ¡°I thought, given your style, you¡¯d have someone buy another one.¡±


    ¡°If I do that, won¡¯t it contradict your educational philosophy?¡± Dexter blurted out.After they spoke, both of them fell into a stunned silence.


    Indeed, Josie was not a mother who indulged her children.When they were still together, they had discussed how they would educate their future child.


    From a young age, Josie had be ustomed to independence. She had a feeling that she wouldn¡¯t be a nurturing mother. If a child were to throw a tantrum, she definitely wouldn¡¯t indulge them.


    At that time, Dexter casually said, ¡°So, you¡¯ll be the strict mother, and I¡¯ll be the kind father?¡±


    They had also talked about the gender of their child. Dexter preferred girls, but after some consideration, he said, ¡°Let¡¯s hope for a boy. When a girl grows up, she is expected to get married, and I know I won¡¯t be able to let her go.¡±

 Chapter 1105

    At that moment, Josie burst intoughter, struggling to contain herself. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder how Dexter would act if they had a daughter. He seemed to have apletely different approach when it came to children.


    Little did Josie know that she would witness it firsthand.


    As Dexter reminisced about the past, he paused for a moment. He raised his head, the light shining into his eyes. ¡°Actually, having a daughter would be wonderful. She doesn¡¯t have to conform to societal expectations. My daughter¡¯s only responsibility is to find happiness.¡±


    Josie sat on the bed, her thoughts suddenly merging with memories from the past, feeling a sense of unease.She changed the subject. ¡°You saved Paul. Won¡¯t Arnold be furious? After all, he didthreaten me¡­¡±


    Her sentence trailed off as Dexter interrupted her. He asked, ¡°Threaten you with what?¡±


    Josie remained silent.


    ¡°This matter won¡¯t be resolved so easily. The test results will be out tomorrow. Prepare yourself for whatever you may discover.¡±


    It was a subtle warning. Josie couldn¡¯t help butshudder, thinking about the unknown suffering Paul had endured over the past two years. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Dexter walked out, holding a toy.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie hesitated for a moment before stopping him. ¡°Please don¡¯t take to heart what I said this afternoon.¡±


    ¡°The part where you called me mentally ill?¡± His tone was indifferent.


    She didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal, nor is it defamation. It¡¯s simply the truth.¡± After speaking, Dexter opened the door.


    Suddenly, Josie eximed, ¡°I¡­¡±


    He stood still once again.It took Josie a while before she finally managed to say, ¡°I won¡¯t let you bear the burden of your mother¡¯s actions.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dexter seemed somewhat disappointed. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. She¡¯s my mother. It¡¯s only right that I take responsibility. You can me me entirely. Don¡¯t feel burdened.¡±


    Then, he closed the door.


    Josie sat motionless, clicking her tongue. There were so many things she wanted to say, but the words wouldn¡¯te out.


    In the afternoon, Scar, in his frustration, directed his anger towards Dexter instead of Xanthe. He was so passive and submissive, hardly resembling the Dexter of the past.


    With a whirlwind of emotions, Josie finally managed to fall asleep. When she woke up the next morning, there was a light drizzle outside.


    The housekeeper informed her, ¡°Mr. Russell has taken Grape for a walk. He asked you to have breakfast before leaving.¡±


    Then, the housekeeper served a delicious meal and added, ¡°The driver is ready to leave whenever you¡¯re ready.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t lie. When he said he would let Josie go, he meant it.Josie furrowed her brow, looking outside. Standing next to the car was a familiar figure. It was none other than Moses, who had arrivedte!


    He, too, had made it to Rivodia.


    Upon seeing Josie, Moses rxed and greeted her casually. However, his face seemed more mature than before, no longer the impulsive youth he once was.


    Josie quickly finished her meal. Dexter hadn¡¯t returned yet. She bumped into Moses. ¡°When did you arrive?¡±


    ¡°I actually arrived yesterday, but there was a slight issue, so I only made it here this morning.¡± Moses¡¯ voice was filled with a long- lost warmth. ¡°Josie, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    Josie forced a smile.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She wasn¡¯t sure if he would say those words when he saw Justin.


    Moses¡¯ driving was as smooth as ever. On the way to the hospital, Josie couldn¡¯t help but sigh. ¡°Initially, I just wanted to find you a job. I didn¡¯t expect you to persist and stay by his side for so long.¡±


    ¡°Josie, to be honest, Mr. Russel orchestrated my initial introduction. He entrusted me with the responsibility of driving and safeguarding you,¡± Moses admitted, gazing into the rear-view mirror, finally unveiling a concealed truth.


    Josie was slightly surprised. ¡°He did?¡±

 Chapter 1106

    He is always so meticulous, Josie thought, then asked, ¡°Is there anything else he arranged? You can tell me all at once.¡±


    Sensing her unhappy tone, Moses immediately shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s nothing else.¡±


    Josie did not press further.


    The medical ward was secluded on its own floor, guarded by dedicated personnel. Even when Josie entered, it required Larry toe out to receive her. As he did so, he reassured, ¡°Rest assured, not even a mosquito would be allowed in.¡±


    Josie hurried along. ¡°Where is the ward?¡±


    ¡°At the end of the corridor.¡±


    She was eager to see Paul, but when she reached the door of the hospital room, her steps faltered, and she dared not proceed any further.


    Larry asked in confusion, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    For over two years, she had been far from a good daughter. Upon their reunion, she was uncertain about how to face Paul.


    At that moment, she was expectant yet fearful.Josie rxed slightly, took a deep breath, and finally mustered the courage to push the dooropen.


    As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but pristine white beds, medical equipment, and the elderly man lying on the bed. If one could say that he was still somewhat spirited when he first woke up from his vegetative state, he, at that moment, appeared to have aged a decade. His hair waspletely white, and the wrinkles on his face were a clear testament to his advanced age.


    It¡¯s him. It¡¯s really him. Pop has truly returned, Josie stared at Paul.One could only imagine the amount of hardship he had endured over those two years.


    Josie¡¯s heart ached as if being twisted by a knife.


    Upon hearing the noise, Paul was startled. He turned to look and after a few seconds, Josie met his gaze. However, his eyes still held a sense of unfamiliarity, as if she was nothing more than a stranger to him.


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes in an instant, her voice choked with emotion as she uttered, ¡°Pop.¡±


    Her voice was soft. Paul pointed to himself in confusion, as if to ask, ¡°Are you speaking to me?¡±


    ¡°Pop¡­¡± Josie dragged her weary feet until she reached the front of his bed. Suddenly, she copsed, kneeling before him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, if it weren¡¯t for me, you wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    From beginning to end, Paul had been looking at her with a very peculiar expression. He even eagerly extended his hand, wanting to help Josie up. ¡°Who are you, miss? You¡¯ve mistaken me for someone else. Ah, get up, get up quickly.¡±


    Josie froze. She couldn¡¯t believe that Paul didn¡¯t recognize her. She tightly gripped Paul¡¯s thin, bony wrist. ¡°It¡¯s me, Jo. Don¡¯t you recognize me? Take a good look at me.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t put on any makeup that day. Over the past two years, her appearance hadn¡¯t changed at all. If anything, her voice remained.


    As such, realistically, Paul should have recognized her!


    Paul really took a good look at her, then waved his hand. ¡°Stop fooling around, child. Get up quickly.¡±


    The tone of his speech was surprisingly robust, yet he couldn¡¯t recognize anyone.He couldn¡¯t recognize her anymore!


    Josie¡¯s entire body went limp as if the worldhad copsed around her. She turned around to question Larry. ¡°What on earth is happening?¡±


    Larry was in a difficult position, revealing the truth. ¡°Mr. Warren had previously suffered a brain injury. The two years of imprisonment only worsened his condition. The doctor diagnosed him with dementia.¡±


    Tears streamed directly down Josie¡¯s face.


    Despite being under sixty, Paul had surprisingly developed dementia.


    She tried to stand up, but her feeble legs kept her slouched on the ground for a prolonged period. It took her a significant amount of time to ept the truth. No wonder Dexter had warned me to be mentally prepared.


    ¡°Mr. Warren fluctuates between moments of rity and moments of confusion. As long as you take care of him with patience, there will always be instances when he recognizes you, Ms. Warren. Don¡¯t be too disheartened,¡± Larry reassured.


    In that instant, Josie felt used and burdened with guilt. How could she not be distressed?

 Chapter 1107

    After Josie had sorted out her emotions, ten minutes had already passed. Emerging from the bathroom, she found Paul staring nkly at the scenery outside. She said to the nurse, ¡°I want to go out.¡±


    The nurse coaxed him, promising to take him out once he finished the bottle of medicine. Josie felt a pang of sorrow. She approached Larry and said, ¡°Show me the diagnostic report.¡±


    Larry handed her a thick stack of reports. ¡°As early as yesterday, Mr. Russell had a full-body examination. The current diagnosis is that apart from dementia, he has some underlying conditions that he¡¯s always had, but nothing else of major concern.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    The mere fact of old age dementia was enough to break Josie¡¯s heart. She found it hard to imagine how Paul had endured those past two years and how much psychological pain he must have suffered.


    She meticulously went through each page, murmuring to herself, ¡°It¡¯s all my fault¡­ If only I could have been more careful¡­¡±


    Larry was about to offer somefort when suddenly, amotion came from outside, growing louder and closer. It was Justin¡¯s voice. ¡°Who the heck let her in!¡±


    The door was flung open abruptly, Justin, stilld in his hospital gown, stormed in furiously. The bodyguard trailing beside him was visibly troubled. ¡°Mr. Peeple, you said not to stop him, so we¡­¡±


    Josie studied Justin. Compared to two years ago, he was no longer as young. He had grown a beard, adding to his mature masculine charm.


    At that moment, he looked at her, wishing he could harm her.


    Larry discerned the underlyingplications and signaled for the bodyguards to retreat with him.With gritted teeth, Justin almost snarled at Josie. ¡°So, you finally decided toe back.¡±


    She clenched the report in her hand. ¡°I¡¯ve always wanted toe back.¡±


    ¡°Get out.¡± Justin flung the door open, issuing a stern order to leave.


    ¡°I won¡¯t leave. In the days toe, I will personally take care of Paul, not letting him out of my sight even for a moment.¡± She stood there stubbornly, yearning to make amends for everything that had transpired in the past.


    ¡°No need, Josie. I will never trust you again. You are nothing but a selfish woman, deserving to be abandoned by the Olsen family!¡± Justin, who had been holding back his anger for two years,let it all out, cursing vehemently. ¡°The man behind you is not your father. He¡¯s mine. Only I would treat him well. Spare me your false pretenses!¡±


    After enduring his barrage of insults, Josie became surprisingly calm. ¡°Are you done? Do you feel better now?¡±


    Justin tightly gripped the doorknob, his eyes also red.


    ¡°In my presence, you vented two years¡¯ worth of pent-up resentment. You should feel somewhat relieved, right? If you still want to curse, feel free to continue. I won¡¯t retort. However, I insist on taking care of Paul personally.¡± Josie walked up to him, bowed deeply, and said, ¡°Justin, I¡¯m sorry. Please give me a chance to make amends.¡±


    In Justin¡¯s eyes, there was nothing but confusion. His body was trembling. ¡°Why did youe back? You left, didn¡¯t you? Weren¡¯t two years of carefree living enough for you? Have youe back to torment me?¡±


    A hint of sadness was concealed in Josie¡¯s eyes. All she could do was shake her head.


    ¡°Do you have any idea what state I found my father in? H-He was sitting on the ground, eating pasta with his hands. The pasta had even gone bad!¡± As Justin recalled that scene, tears inevitably fell, and he couldn¡¯t help butsob uncontrobly.


    Upon hearing his description, Josie was also moved to tears.


    ¡°He didn¡¯t even recognize me. Did you know that, Josie? No, Liana.¡±


    She could only continue apologizing. ¡°He will recognize me, I¡¯m certain of it. I will ensure that he remembers.¡±


    Just as in the past, Paul had subtly indicated to her numerous times that she was Liana.


    He had evidently always remembered her, and presumably, that would remain unchanged in the future.

 Chapter 1108

    Justin sat motionless on the ground, unaware of how long the standoff hadsted. Paul¡¯s voice echoed from behind him, ¡°Why are they arguing?¡±


    The nurse didn¡¯t dare to speak again.


    Finally, Justin regained hisposure and stood up. He asked directly, ¡°Have you reconciled with Dexter?¡±


    Surprised, Josie replied, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°In that case, how would he know where I was and send someone to rescue me?¡± Justin was still unaware of the chip that Dexter had imnted in his body, nor did he know that Dexter had been secretly protecting him from danger.


    Josie struggled to describe their rtionship. She found herself unable to answer many questions. However, Justin understood just by looking at her expression.


    With a scoff, she said, ¡°He truly is a hopeless romantic.¡±


    As Justin stood up, Josie noticed his injured leg. He was limping, clearly having suffered a great deal. ¡°How did you find Paul? You¡¯ve also met Arnold, right? Did he give you a hard time?¡±


    ¡°Arnold?¡± Justin scoffed again. ¡°He¡¯s an even bigger hopeless romantic.¡±


    Josie found his words inexplicably amusing.


    When Justin¡¯s identity was revealed, Arnold arrived. Upon seeing Justin, he didn¡¯t cause any trouble. With an icy demeanor, he remarked, ¡°Ah, it¡¯s my brother-inw. In that case, lock him up with Paul. They can watch out for each other.¡±


    After Justin finished speaking, he asked in a peculiar tone, ¡°Just how many people am I a brother-inw to, really?¡±


    Josie could hardly contain her desire to kill Arnold. ¡°Dexter indeed provided significant assistance. Given the current chaos in Rivodia, unless absolutely necessary, you should avoid making your presence known.¡±


    However, Justin felt insulted by her expression of concern. ¡°What do you mean? Do you think we should just let it go? I¡¯ll say it again. He harmed my biological father. My father has suffered so much, so I must make them pay!¡±


    ¡°How?¡± she asked.


    Justin¡¯s stream of profanities abruptly ceased, leaving him standing there, dumbfounded.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°Besides knowing that the other party is Arnold, what else do you know? Mr. Dalton? Now that La Oriele has been burned down, do you n to charge at them with a knife?¡± Every question Josie posed was a genuine expression ofconfusion, as she intended to calm him down.


    Justin responded even more vehemently, ¡°What are you implying? Are you scared, or do you want to y the role of a pampered rich girl? Afraid that all of this will ruin your life, is that it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never been afraid!¡± Josie said earnestly. ¡°What I mean is, you should focus on your recovery first. You don¡¯t need to involve yourself in this anymore. Let me handle it.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He asked softly.


    ¡°This time, I came to y the role of a strategist. Have you forgotten? I¡¯m a master of revenge.¡±


    The animosity Justin had harbored over the past two years couldn¡¯t simply be ignored.When Josie left the hospital, Moses¡¯ car was already parked by the roadside. As she opened the car door, she was immediately greeted by a familiar figure.


    It was unknown when Dexter had arrived. He was sitting by the window, his arm resting on the windowsill, a cigarette burning between his fingers.


    Grapey nearby, her expression calm.


    ¡°She woke up too early, walked for a bit, thengot tired. She fell asleep again,¡± he exined softly, extinguishing his cigarette.Josie asked cautiously, ¡°When did you arrive?¡±


    Dexter grabbed a bottle of disinfectant and sprayed it on his hand, which had just been holding a cigarette. ¡°It won¡¯t be much longer,¡± he said.


    Josie fell silent, contemting his words.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you inform Justin that you went to Sumanthova specifically because you had a lead on Paul? If you had told him, he wouldn¡¯t resent you as much,¡± Dexter said, revealing that he had arrived early and overheard part of the conversation.


    Josie took a deep breath, considering her response. ¡°In the end, I didn¡¯t find Paul, so it would seem like I¡¯m just making excuses if I tried to exin.¡±

 Chapter 1109

    Dexter neither agreed nor disagreed.


    Josie nced at him. ¡°Paul has dementia, you¡¯re aware of this, right?¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    He waited for her next words.She spoke hesitantly. ¡°Once the hospital procedures arepleted, I want to bring him home.¡±


    After speaking, fearing his disagreement, she quickly added, ¡°Of course, if you find it troublesome, I can take care of him and Grape on my own.¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze fell upon the sleeping child. In truth, she could have done the same. The reason she was willing to fulfill that broken contract with Dexter was solely to find Paul. However, she hadn¡¯t expected to find him so quickly, bypassing Arnold entirely.


    With that, she had even lost the chance to change her mind.Upon hearing her words, Dexter immediately furrowed his brows. ¡°Do you think I, Dexter, can¡¯t afford to support an elderly person and a child?¡±


    Quickly, Josie retorted, ¡°Dexter, of course I didn¡¯t mean that. What I meant was-¡±


    ¡°Stay by my side,¡± he interrupted.


    Josie stared at him in surprise, only to see him clench his fist and cough lightly. ¡°What I mean is, we¡¯re still in Rivodia. If you undertake such a big task alone, you might not necessarily do well. Arnold is always watching. It¡¯ll be much safer if you stay by my side.¡±


    After some thought, Josie realized it was indeed true. She didn¡¯t have such a significant presence in Rivodia.


    However, Dexter did.


    She fell silent for a moment, but soon turned her gaze toward the window, her voice light as a feather. ¡°Will it really be safe to stay by your side? I¡¯m not so sure about that.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s breathing fluctuated. He found himself unable to utter a word of rebuttal.


    Josie toyed with Grape¡¯s chubby fingers. ¡°I don¡¯t mean anything else by that. It¡¯s true that I¡¯ve never felt safe in the past.¡±


    Her tone was rather casual, as if she wasn¡¯t taking things seriously.


    ¡°Josie,¡± said Dexter.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Do you seek revenge?¡±


    He suddenly uttered those words, leaving herstunned. ¡°You heard that?¡±


    Just as Dexter was about to speak, Grape suddenly woke up. She opened her eyes in a daze, neither crying nor making a fuss. After adjusting to the environment inside the car, she looked at Josie and called out, ¡°Mommy.¡±


    She smiled, lifting Grape up. ¡°Awake now, piggy? Howe you slept for so long? Didn¡¯t you sleep wellst night?¡±


    Gently rubbing her eyes, Grape spoke with an adorable voice. ¡°I missed Mommy.¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Who did you sleep withst night? Was it-¡±


    ¡°I slept with Mr. Russell!¡±


    Josie raised her eyebrow in surprise, exchanging a nce with Dexter, who was busy tidying up Grape¡¯s nket. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t trust anyone else with this task.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised. I never thought I¡¯d see the day when you¡¯d take care of a child,¡± said Josie.His movements paused slightly. ¡°The experience was quite pleasant.¡±


    She quicklyposed herself.


    Grape was still muttering, ¡°Mommy, why did Mr. Russell bring me to find you? Where did yougo?¡±


    Upon returning to her residence, Grape was full of energy, running around causing amotion. That day, she had met another man who seemed to be quite fond of her.


    Moses was truly fond of her. He never imagined that after two years of not seeing each other, Josie would give them such a big surprise.


    Thus, the task of taking care of Grape was entrusted to him.


    Josie was summoned by Dexter to the study to continue the topic they were discussing in the car earlier.


    Dexter expressed, ¡°I didn¡¯t intend to prevent you, but youckplete knowledge about Arnold. It is crucial that you do not act impulsively.¡±


    Josie frowned. ¡°True, I don¡¯t have a specific n, but given sufficient time, I can always discover his vulnerability. Not only him, but I have also identified Mr. Dalton¡¯s weaknesses.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He became somewhat intrigued.


    ¡°He has a daughter whom I have encountered. Her name is Ruth.¡±

 Chapter 1110

    As Dexter raised his eyebrow, Josie continued, ¡°In this world, there are no parents who do not love their children. Ruth cares for me, and she has saved me before. If we can find a way through her, everything will be simpler.¡±


    Listening, Dexter casually yed with the green ivy leaves on the windowsill. ¡°Are you certain Mr. Dalton will be influenced by a child?¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t he be? I¡¯ve said it before. There are no parents in this world who do not love their children. To defeat the enemy, one must first capture their leader. Once we have control over Mr. Dalton, everything will be negotiable with Arnold.¡±


    Josie quickly finished speaking, but upon witnessing Dexter¡¯s cold gaze, she abruptly stopped. Touching her lips, she realized her mistake. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I wasn¡¯t referring to you.¡±


    The more she tried to hide something, the more obvious it became, which was exactly what her sentence did.She sighed in frustration.


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°I didn¡¯t take it personally.¡±


    She stood still, as if she was being punished with a time-out.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Dexter continued, ¡°Mr. Dalton is no ordinaryman, capable of reaching such heights. A child couldn¡¯t possibly control him, let alone Arnold, who he may not necessarily obey.¡±


    Hearing this, Josie became somewhat anxious. ¡°What should we do then?¡±


    ¡°Take advantage of me.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She thought she had misheard.


    Dexter had his back to her, fighting against the light, his silhouette clearly visible. ¡°I have Edward in my hands. I can use him to threaten Arnold.¡±


    Josie thought, These two sworn enemies truly understand each other well. Even their methods are the same. ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°Use the information I provide to coax information out of Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Why would he believe me? Paul has already been rescued.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Dexter paused for a moment. ¡°I will find a way. In the meantime, you should leave thepany under L¡¯s name.¡±


    Having worked at thepany for two years, Josie immediately refused. ¡°Why should I? I¡¯m not leaving.¡±


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°Were the benefits he gave you better than those from Russell Group? You seem to be so fixated on them.¡±


    ¡°To be honest, there¡¯s really no one better than Russell Group,¡± Josie forced a smile. ¡°However, at least the boss is decent. He doesn¡¯t exploit me.¡±


    His expression visibly darkened. ¡°Josie.¡±


    ¡°Even if you were to ask me ten thousand times, my answer would remain the same.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she turned to leave. However, he swiftly grabbed her wrist, pulling her into his embrace. Dexter¡¯s aura was dangerously intense as he said, ¡°I¡¯ll say it one more time. Leave hispany.¡±


    She looked at him, each word deliberate. ¡°I¡¯ll say it again. I¡¯m not leaving.¡±


    Dexter lifted her chin.


    ¡°He did his best for me. I can¡¯t abandon him after receiving the help I needed once I return to my country. It goes against my principles in life. She responded with eloquence and wit.


    Dexter was almost amused to the point ofughter by her. Did this woman truly not understand that L could leave her for money?


    It was in that moment of deadlock that both individuals seemed to see their past selves.


    Taken aback, Josie tried to push him away.


    Dexter snapped back to reality, tightening his grip on her arm with increased force. ¡°If there¡¯s no other way, then let it be this way.¡±


    Upon hearing his concession, Josie was taken aback. Their eyes met, and like a sudden surge of electricity, she quickly looked away. ¡°What were you trying to aplish?¡±


    Dexter let go of her. ¡°Did you hear anything?¡±


    Josie was confused.


    ¡°Grape is calling for you downstairs.¡±


    Josie listened carefully, and indeed, she heard it. She shot him an angry look before swiftly leaving the study.


    Dexter watched her walk away with a satisfied half-smile, feeling extremely content with the situation.


    The next day, as Josie headed to the hospital to visit Paul, he unexpectedly received a call from L, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a project that needs your personal attention. Do you have the time?¡± asked L.

 Chapter 1111

    Surprised, Josie eximed, ¡°I mentioned that I wouldn¡¯t be taking on any projects for a while after returning to the country, didn¡¯t I?¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°What if I told you it¡¯s rted to Robyn?¡± L replied.


    ¡°Robyn? Tell me more!¡± Her spirits immediately lifted.


    ¡°La Oriele was burned down and now needs to be rebuilt,¡± L exined in one breath, as if delivering a mission. ¡°The implication is that it should be renovated as well. Currently, severalpanies are preparing to bid. Thepany¡¯s investors specifically requested your involvement.¡±


    As soon as those words were spoken, Josie almost understood. ¡°Is it Dexter?¡±


    L gave a bitter smile. ¡°He is very persistent.¡±


    No wonder. So this was the opportunity he was talking about, Josie pondered carefully. ¡°Prepare the materials for me. I¡¯ll take on this project.¡±


    L was taken aback. ¡°It seems that Dexter knows you very well. He knew you would definitely ept. However, I must tell you, the La Oriele project is tricky. It¡¯s entangled with influences from many quarters. Choosing this as your first project after returning to thecountry might not be the safest move.¡±


    The hospital was nearly in sight. Josie looked at the logo, took a deep breath, and said, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    Paul¡¯s health was stable. The only issue was his memory. He couldn¡¯t recognize people. Justin sat beside him, to whom he had said countless times, ¡°Young man, you should go home now.¡±


    Justin scratched his head in frustration.Josie carried a bag of fruit, crouching down to ask, ¡°Pop, would you like a banana or an apple?¡±


    Paul hesitated for a long time, looking at her as if she were a stranger. ¡°My daughter instructed me not to eat anything given by strangers.¡±


    He remembered even that, but he just couldn¡¯t recall who she was.Josie took out an apple and peeled it. ¡°Have an apple then.¡±


    Leaning on his cane, Justin hobbled along, speaking passive-aggressively. ¡°You¡¯re quite resilient under pressure.¡±


    She ignored him. ¡°The doctor said there¡¯s essentially no issue now. I¡¯ll pick him up in the afternoon.¡±


    Immediately, Justin reacted. ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°Currently, only Dexter¡¯s ce can give me peace of mind. Rest assured, Paul won¡¯t get lost again this time.¡± Josie wasn¡¯t sure how to make him believe her. Frowning, she suggested, ¡°How about this? Come with me.¡±


    Justin¡¯s eyes widened in shock, his face bearing an expression of disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re bringing the whole family along, huh? I just can¡¯t swallow my pride.¡±


    In the past, Josie might have thought the same way, but not anymore. At that moment, Dexter was a resource that could be utilized. As long as her goals could be achieved, nothing else mattered. Absolutely nothing. ¡°A little neglect may lead to great mischief. Do you understand that great sacrifices are necessary to achieve one¡¯s goals?¡±


    ¡°You told me this, but I¡¯ve been doing that for two years!¡± He held up two fingers. ¡°A full two years!¡±


    ¡°Very impressive,¡± Josie said with a smile, cutting a piece of apple and feeding it to Paul. Despite Paul¡¯s protests, he still ate it. ¡°Once you¡¯re discharged from the hospital, do you have a ce to go?¡±


    ¡°What kind of joke is this? I have a boss above me. Of course, I have a ce to go.¡± Justin was adamant about not wanting to meet Dexter, andJosie was not inclined to force him.


    By the afternoon, she hadpleted Paul¡¯s discharge procedures. Moses came to pick her up in his car, ensuring her safety.Paul waspletely confused. ¡°Where are you taking me? I refuse to go¡­ I want to stay here!¡±


    In a calm andforting tone, Josie reassured, ¡°I¡¯ll bring you back home, to see Jo. Do you remember Jo?¡±


    ¡°You know my daughter?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    After a lot of convincing, they eventually got into the car. However, shortly after they started driving, they were suddenly halted.


    A number of ck cars pulled up, creating quite a dramatic scene.


    Josie and Moses exchanged a nce.

 Chapter 1112

    A group of about twelve bodyguards emerged from the opposing vehicle, forming a barrier in front of the car, facing off against Dexter¡¯s men.Moses unbuckled his seatbelt. ¡°I¡¯ll go down and check it out first.¡±


    Upon seeing this, Paul asked, ¡°Why did we stop, miss? Aren¡¯t we going to see Jo?¡±


    ¡°The traffic is jammed, let¡¯s wait for a while.¡± Josie tightly held Paul¡¯s hand tofort him.


    Moses exited the car. He spoke to the men in ck and nced back.After a moment, Moses returned and said, ¡°Arnold specifically asked to see you.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°I won¡¯t meet him.¡±


    ¡°He said¡­¡± Moses was in a dilemma. ¡°If you refuse to see him, Paul will have to bear his own illness.¡±


    Josie immediately became anxious. ¡°At this point, he still dares to threaten me with Paul!¡±


    ¡°He also mentioned that the situation in Rivodia is currently tense, but you need not worry about any danger.¡±


    Josie thought the same. Besides, there were so many of Dexter¡¯s people there. Arnold didn¡¯t have the courage to harm her directly, and shewasn¡¯t the one he wanted anyway. ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±


    Josieforted Paul with a few words, then pushed open the car door. Wearing her high heels, she walked step by step toward Arnold¡¯s car. He, as always, was faithfully devoted to his Bentley.


    She looked down at him from her elevated position inside the car.Arnold personally opened the car door, his face adorned with a pair of dark sunsses. ¡°Please.¡±


    Taking a deep breath, Josie finally took a seat. ¡°Speak, if there¡¯s something you want to say.¡±


    ¡°Paul has been discharged from the hospital. I came to congratte you.¡± Arnold said as he poured a ss of red wine. He swirled it around before cing it in front of her. ¡°It seems you¡¯ve received the medical report. It should prove that I didn¡¯t mistreat him.¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°You¡¯re a monster!¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression remained unchanged. ¡°I took good care of your father for two years. I fulfilled my duty towards him. There¡¯s no reason for you to berate me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re worse than a monster.¡± She eximed emotionally, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you, Paul would never have developed dementia.¡± How dare hesay such a thing!


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond to her statement. Instead, he gestured towards the ss of red wine in front of her. ¡°Dexter is quite skilled, able to manipte someone with just a few words. It seems you¡¯ve already forgiven him.¡±


    Josie steadfastly refused to drink. ¡°You are all cut from the same cloth. If you wish to torment me in the future, do as you please, but leave my family out of it. My family is innocent.¡±


    ¡°Others may be innocent, but Paul certainly isn¡¯t,¡± Arnold dered loudly.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Dalton¡¯s sister tragically died on your father¡¯s operating table back then!¡±


    The implications of that statement were profound, and Josie immediately retorted, ¡°Watch your words. I¡¯ve read the report. All the doctors present did their best, including Paul. He has never been a doctor who takes lives lightly!¡±


    ¡°Perhaps he was indeedmendable, but what about the person involved?¡±


    Josie calmed down. I suppose that makes sense. Mr. Dalton can¡¯t help but resent the doctor who failed to save his sister, but what fault did Paulmit to deserve such retribution? ¡°It wasMr. Dalton who ordered you to do this, you damnckey.¡±


    Arnold allowed her to scold him, unfazed. ¡°Go ahead and have a drink. It will help calm your temper.¡±


    Despite enduring her scolding patiently time and time again, Josie refrained from touching her wine ss. ¡°I¡¯ll stop scolding, afraid it might please you too much.¡±


    Arnold raised an eyebrow, intrigued.


    ¡°Did you stop me today just to hear me curse at you?¡±


    ¡°Of course not, I simply wanted to remind you that our agreement is not yet finalized!¡± Arnold mysteriously produced a photograph from somewhere, and to Josie¡¯s shock, it was of Paul!Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In the photograph, Paul was seen taking some medication, although the specifics were unclear.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Josie inquired.

 Chapter 1113

    After Dexter brought out Paul, Arnold didn¡¯t make a single move, seemingly in no hurry at all. It turned out he had been waiting there all along.


    ¡°I¡¯m warning you. If you don¡¯t drink this ss of wine now, even if you beg me in the future, I won¡¯t let you have any,¡± Arnold said with a mischievous smile.


    The trials and tribtions of the past few years had stripped him of his former mboyance.


    Josie had no choice but to grasp the wine ss and drain it in one gulp. The strong liquor burned her throat, yet she didn¡¯t even blink. ¡°Can I speak now?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Arnold was somewhat surprised. ¡°It seems that you¡¯ve really grown a lot in these past two years. I¡¯ll say it again. Bring Edward out.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Josie didn¡¯t understand. Since Paul had already been rescued, Arnold should have lost his leverage. How could he still make demands?


    ¡°The hospital probably couldn¡¯t detect it. Your father was poisoned.¡±


    As though struck by lightning, Josie was frozen in ce. The next second, she fiercely grabbed Arnold¡¯s cor, teeth gnashed in anger. ¡°Say that to me one more time, you despicable person!¡±


    He raised his hands past his ears, speaking in a measured tone. ¡°All I did was let him take some drugs. Only people in this circle would know about this kind of poison. Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not highly toxic. However, if he can¡¯t get the antidote, he will feel an unbearable itch in his heart, until he goes mad and faints.¡±


    With every word he uttered, Josie wished nothing more than to kill him.


    ¡°From the time they rescued him from me to the day of my discharge today, it¡¯s been exactly three days. It¡¯s about time for it to happen,¡± said Arnold.


    Despair poured from Josie¡¯s eyes.


    Arnold, however, was quite enamored with her appearance, especially the lingering scent of red wine. ¡°That¡¯s why I said I am the one who treats you the best. Dexter never even considered the safety of your father.¡±


    ¡°No wonder you¡¯re not worried¡­ So you¡¯ve kept an ace up your sleeve, just to threaten me,¡± spat Josie.


    His words slithered out like a venomous snake. ¡°Just like you, I am determined to rescue my father. You, who have endured so many years of torment, should understand me. Josie, we are the ones who truly understand each other, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    As Arnold spoke, he eventually broke intoughter.


    He¡¯s mad. Disgusted, Josie released him, taking a moment to calm her emotions before she finally spoke. ¡°What exactly do you want me to do?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, to get close to Dexter and extract information from him.¡± Arnold straightened his cor. ¡°Over the years, he¡¯s been very cautious. Edward has been moved to an unknown location, and I can only find a way in through you.¡±


    ¡°Do you think you can extract information from me if you can¡¯t even find him? Dexter wouldn¡¯t believe me.¡±


    ¡°Believe it or not, you know best in your heart.¡± Arnold reopened the car door. ¡°I have great confidence in your charm.¡±


    Josie truly wished she could have killed him.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can go back and see the condition your father is in due to his drug addiction. I believe by then, you will be willing to work for me.¡±


    She clenched her fist tightly, her nails digging into her flesh. ¡°You will get what you deserve.¡±


    Arnold neither agreed nor disagreed.


    Filled with anger, Josie got out of the car. Scar, standing as the leading bodyguard, saw her and waved with a smile. ¡°Lads, say goodbye to Mrs. Carter!¡±


    She shot him a re.Behind her, Scar¡¯s voice reverberated, apanied by a resounding and melodious tone, ¡°Take care, Mrs. Carter!¡±


    Moses had been waiting for a considerable amount of time. ¡°What did Arnold say?¡± he inquired.


    Josie made a beeline for the rear seat, where Paul wasfortably settled, amusing himself by fiddling with his fingers like a child. Catching sight of her return, he asked cheerfully, ¡°Miss, can we depart now?¡±


    His smile was as innocent as a child¡¯s, causing Josie¡¯s heart to ache with anguish.

 Chapter 1114

    Upon returning to Dexter¡¯s residence, Josie noticed that there were guests inside. They were gathered in small groups, dressed in in clothes, and their figures were quite distinctive and familiar.Josie, supporting Paul, entered and immediately spotted Scott.


    He had arrived in Rivodia.


    Scott hadn¡¯t changed much. ¡°Ms. Warren!¡± His gaze then fell upon Paul. ¡°We¡¯ve heard about your father¡¯s situation. We apologize for not initiating the rescue immediately, which led toInterrupting, Josie said, ¡°This has nothing to do with all of you.¡±


    She exchanged a nce with Dexter, who was seated in the main seat. His gaze was indifferent, silently inquiring about her condition.


    To others, it seemed perfectly normal, but in his eyes, something was off.Upon seeing so many unfamiliar faces, Paul was somewhat startled. Josie greeted everyone and then promptly led him back to their room.


    Dexter had specifically instructed his staff to prepare a room for Paul, It was located on thefirst floor, very close to his own bedroom. This way, he could be immediately aware of any situation that might arise.


    Once Paul had settled down, only then did Josie step out.


    Apart from Scott, there seemed to be several other in-clothes police officers present, and their ranks were even higher. They were engaged in conversation with Dexter.


    ¡°The fact that Arnold could appear as Robyn indicates that he had enough confidence to prove he was not Arnold. Consequently, we would need more evidence.¡± Unconsciously, Dexter fiddled with the watch on his wrist, deep in thought. ¡°He tantly stirs up trouble under the guise of Robyn¡¯s identity. Do you all think that he could do this without a backer in Rivodia?¡±


    These words struck a nerve, leaving the group exchanging uneasy nces. ¡°Are you suggesting¡­¡±


    ¡°La Oriele burned all through the night, yet not a single contraband item was found. Clearly, someone was covering his tracks.¡±


    Scott analyzed, ¡°Mr. Dalton is the real puppet master behind the scenes. Since he¡¯s stirring up trouble here, the backer shielding him from behind must be substantial.¡±


    ¡°Determining who the backer is, for all of you, will be considered overstepping your bounds, won¡¯t it?¡± Dexter said lightly.


    ¡°Yes, Wavery¡¯s reach isn¡¯t that far, but¡­ If it¡¯s about investigating Arnold, one could indeed follow clues to get results.¡± After the leader finished speaking, he expressed his concern, ¡°However, to investigate him, we need a lot of evidence.¡±


    ¡°Since he hase out, he wouldn¡¯t do nothing. There would be opportunities.¡±


    ¡°Oh? It seems Mr. Russell has long been informed. Why not share?¡±


    ¡°A weekter, the renovation of La Oriele will open for bidding, and I will arrange for someone to participate.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°This indeed is a great opportunity. Is there anyone absolutely trustworthy?¡±


    Dexter slightly lifted his gaze, his eyesnding on Josie, who had been standing in the corner listening for quite some time. He softly said, ¡°Come over.¡±


    Josie¡¯s back stiffened involuntarily, her mind drifting back to the words Arnold had spoken not long ago. In that situation, she couldn¡¯t utter a word.


    ¡°Ms. Warren? Isn¡¯t that too risky?¡± Scott didn¡¯tquite agree.


    Josie moved to Dexter¡¯s side. Instead of rushing to respond, he stood up, shoulder to shoulder with her, and introduced, ¡°You know Scott. This is Mr. Ziegler from Wavery and Mr. Hackett.¡±


    They were all of insignificant status. Josie nodded in greeting, then turned to Scott and asked, ¡°Sergeant Buncho, why do you think I¡¯m taking a risk?¡±


    Scott didn¡¯t respond immediately, because the answer was clear. In the two years of her disappearance, too many things had happened, and her identity was not clear enough.


    In the silence, Dexter gazed at her. ¡°Rest assured, she and I have already reconciled our past differences. There are no more secrets between us. Furthermore, the case involving Paul is directly connected to her. I firmly believe that without her involvement, Arnold will not be ensnared.¡±

 Chapter 1115

    Josie had no issues with thetter half of the sentence, but she took issue with the meaning of the former half.


    Josie nced sideways, raising an eyebrow, while Dexter remainedpletelyposed.


    As several people exchanged nces in front of her, Josie smiled. ¡°Mr. Ziegler, I must seek justice for my father¡¯s incident. Please give me a chance, even if it¡¯s just to personally apprehend them.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Kevin replied, ¡°The main problem is that the evil forces have been deeply rooted in Rivodia for many years. For you to venture in alone, it¡¯s simply too dangerous.¡±


    ¡°She won¡¯t be alone, I am by her side.¡± Dexter raised his hand, cing it on her shoulder, seemingly protective.


    Both of them had a determined look in their eyes. In the end, Kevin nodded, ¡°As always, I will prioritize your cases in Rivodia. You can take control of the situation and arrange for Scott and the others as you see fit. However, there is one thing I insist on. When ites to major decisions, don¡¯t exceed your authority. Report first.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, Josie looked at Dexter in surprise. It seemed like this wasn¡¯t the first time he had been trusted so implicitly by those above him.


    That shouldn¡¯t have happened to a businessman.


    Upon hearing that, she merely chuckledzily, ¡°Such a significant matter. It¡¯s difficult for me to handle if you don¡¯t let me cross the line.¡±


    Kevin scoffed, gesturing in the air with his finger. ¡°You know, sometimes you¡¯re too impulsive.¡±


    ¡°What qualifies as a major decision?¡± Josie interjected, ¡°What if it involves harming Arnold?¡±


    ¡°He is an important person, so naturally, you must report your decision on what to do with him.¡± When Josie heard that, her gaze subtly deepened, a slight reaction that Dexter noticedpletely.


    The conversation ended, and after seeing off the guests, Josie immediately shook off Dexter¡¯s hand. ¡°Who said I¡¯ve put the past with you aside?¡±


    He stood under the sunlight. ¡°What, can¡¯t I say it in advance?¡±


    What kind of statement is that? Josie turned her head, just in time to see a movingpany¡¯s truck driving past the vi and stopping directly across the street.


    It seemed that the vi had long beenuninhabited, never having seen a soul. Was someone about to arrive?


    Dexter narrowed his eyes as well but retorted, ¡°Isn¡¯t the sun too bright?¡±


    Josie walked back.


    As she walked, she spoke. ¡°I can act as a spy, but I have one condition: Arnold cannot die.¡±


    As soon as she spoke, Dexter gripped her wrist, forcing her to look at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t know how to exin it to him. ¡°There were too many people around earlier, and there were things I couldn¡¯t say. Either way, he cannot die.¡±


    Dexter smiled helplessly. ¡°After two years, you still have a soft spot for him.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? I am not-¡±


    Just then, a cry of rm came from inside. ¡°My God! Someonee quickly!¡±


    The sound hade from Paul¡¯s room. Josie¡¯s face immediately changed. She shook off Dexter and hurriedly ran over.


    Dexter also furrowed his brow, quickly catching up.


    Josie burst into the room, only to be met withthe shocking sight of Paul convulsing on the floor. Foam was frothing at the corners of his mouth as he screamed in agony. His aging body was continuously throwing itself against the wall. ¡°Drug¡­ Drug¡­


    The housekeeper was terrified, pulling Paul aside while exining to Josie, ¡°He was just fine a moment ago, then suddenly he became like this.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brow as he observed the unfolding scene, quicklyprehending the situation. He crouched down to assist Paul, urging him, ¡°Come back to your senses!¡±


    However, Paul continued to be unable to control his convulsions.Josie¡¯s face grew pale. What Arnold said was correct. Paul had indeed developed a drug addiction, but he¡¯s already old!


    Dexter gently pinched Paul¡¯s sunken cheeks, but he continued to resist. He then extended his hand, cing it in Paul¡¯s mouth to prevent him from biting his tongue.

 Chapter 1116

    With something to bite, Paul lost all reason and fiercely bit into Dexter¡¯s palm.


    ¡°Mr. Russell!¡± the housekeeper eximed in surprise.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Blood started to flow from Dexter¡¯s hand.


    Dexter didn¡¯t even flinch as he quickly ordered, ¡°Call Moses in! Take Grape away, don¡¯t let here over!¡±


    The housekeeper hurried off to get it done.


    Josie¡¯s lips trembled incessantly. Upon witnessing the scene involving Paul, she truly wished she could kill Arnold.


    ¡°Jo!¡± He called her back to reality, ¡°Go pour a ss of water.¡±


    She closed her eyes briefly, then quickly stepped forward. Despite her trembling hands, she managed to pour a full cup of water. She then crouched down and slowly fed the water to Paul.


    Josie spoke rapidly. ¡°It¡¯s Arnold¡¯s doing. There¡¯s no way he would let me rescue Paul so easily. He threatened me, saying that if I wanted to get the antidote, I must obey him! As I said, Arnold cannot die. Although Paul has escaped, his life is still in Arnold¡¯s hands.¡±


    She looked at Dexter with a burning gaze. ¡°LetEdward go, I need to save Paul. Whatever you want, I¡¯ll do it for you, okay, Dexter?¡±


    Paul¡¯s condition simply couldn¡¯t withstand any more turmoil. Josie was terrified that if he had another episode, it might cost him his life directly.


    Dexter¡¯s pupils constricted, his voice deep as he said, ¡°Calm down first. It¡¯s not as simple as just releasing Edward right now. Even if you manage to do that, Arnold won¡¯t give you the medicine!¡±


    Josie continued to tremble.


    Moses had already entered, and upon seeing the mess before him, he was stunned in ce. ¡°What on earth happened here?¡±


    Dexter quickly said, ¡°Go after Mr. Hackett, who just left, and tell him that I want to borrow someone from him, the deputy director of the drug rehabilitation center.¡±


    Before Moses could even ask why, he said, ¡°AII right, they haven¡¯t been gone long. I should be able to catch up if I leave now.¡±


    Dexter nced at Josie. ¡°Be quick, and also, don¡¯t tell him why.¡±


    Moses quickly walked away.


    Paul had stopped convulsing, but he had lost allhis vitality, his gaze unfocused and scattered.Dexter slowly withdrew his hand, which was already drenched in fresh blood. Paul had bitten Dexter deeply, creating a terrifying sight.


    He didn¡¯t even blink.


    Josie crouched down, clutching a piece of paper, gently wiping away the blood and froth from the corners of Paul¡¯s mouth.


    Dexter sat paralyzed on the ground, propping himself up with one hand on his knee. ¡°Given your father¡¯s situation, it would be best to send him to a rehabilitation center for treatment. If you¡¯re worried about leaving him alone, I can arrange for someone toe to your home and provide support.¡±


    With mechanical movements, Josie quickly voiced her disagreement. ¡°I don¡¯t agree.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°He can¡¯t quit in his current condition. Look at him, he¡¯s be nothing but skin and bones. His underlying illnesses couldn¡¯t support him through withdrawal. It¡¯s just medication, after all. If it allows him to live healthily, what¡¯s wrong with taking it?¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows. ¡°Do you even understand what you¡¯re saying? That kind of drug has more harm than good. If he keepstaking it, it¡¯s only a matter of time before something goes wrong!¡±


    ¡°And you think forcibly stopping him from taking those drugs will save him?¡± Josie roared, her eyes red with anger. ¡°Why on earth won¡¯t you let Edward go? My father¡¯s life is at stake too! Are you just going to stand by and watch him die?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze gradually grew cold. ¡°I am indifferent to life and death, Josie. How can you still be so naive? If I were to release Edward, do you truly believe that Arnold would provide you with the medicine? If he had an ounce of conscience, he would not have allowed Paul to be addicted in the first ce!¡±


    Josie continued to tremble. ¡°I understand, I understand it all. However, as I mentioned earlier, I do not want Paul to suffer any longer.¡±


    The two remained at a stalemate, with no one paying any attention. Meanwhile, Dexter¡¯s hand, hanging by his side, continued to bleed profusely.

 Chapter 1117

    After an unspecified amount of time, the housekeeper finished tidying up the room. Paul,pletely exhausted, was assisted onto the bed to rest.


    By the time Moses returned, two hours had already psed. Josie was crouching on the ground, using medicinal liquid to clean Dexter¡¯s wounds. However, neither of them spoke, and they wore worried expressions.


    Moses introduced, ¡°Mr. Russell, Jeremy Yeatman from the drug rehabilitation center has arrived.¡±


    Jeremy, a dignified middle-aged man in his forties or fifties, nced at Dexter. ¡°What¡¯s the hurry? Your driver drives as if he¡¯s piloting an airne.¡±


    Finally, Dexter lifted his gaze and spoke. ¡°I apologize for the inconvenience, but there¡¯s a patient at home who¡¯s addicted to a certain drug. I would like you to diagnose what exactly the drug is.¡±


    ¡°Drugs?¡± Jeremy was quite taken aback.


    The housekeeper led him to Paul¡¯s room.


    Approximately ten minutester, Josie finished tending to Dexter¡¯s wounds, and Jeremy also emerged. ¡°It¡¯s not the type of drugmonly found in nightclubs, but rather an anesthetic used in medicine to alleviate pain. If takenexcessively, it can be addictive. He¡¯s been taking it for about two years, hasn¡¯t he?¡±


    With a troubled expression, Josie replied, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Taking this medication in the short term won¡¯t cause any issues, but if consumed over a long period, it bes difficult to stop. If I may ask, has the patient undergone any brain surgery?¡±


    ¡°He was once involved in a car ident, which left him in aa for nearly four years.¡±


    ¡°No wonder. The medicine used to treat his condition had a simr medicinal property. It¡¯s just that it was reced with this kind of slow- acting poison that is highly toxic.¡±


    Dexter asked, ¡°Is it safe to discontinue his use of the drug?¡±


    Jeremy replied, ¡°It¡¯ll be difficult as the drug has be an integral part of managing his condition. If his medication is discontinued, his illness will re up.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes, realizing the truth behind Arnold¡¯s confidence.


    Arnold had urately targeted her vulnerable spot.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Dexter frowned. ¡°So you¡¯re saying it¡¯s impossible?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s elderly. The drawbacks will outweigh the benefits,¡± replied Jeremy.


    Dexter then changed the subject. ¡°Where can one find this type of drug? Is there any alternative medication avable?¡±


    ¡°This drug itself is illegal. If caught, one is sentenced for each granule. I truly don¡¯t know who would have the audacity to possess it.¡±


    Listening intently, Josie paced back and forth anxiously.


    ¡°The alternative medicine is too weak. It won¡¯t have any effect on him.¡± After Jeremy finished speaking, he received no response, which left him quite puzzled. ¡°Where is this man from, and how could he have been consuming this drug for two years?¡±


    Dexter pursed his lips. ¡°This matter is of great importance. I implore you not to spread what you have seen and heard, Mr. Yeatman.¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    After listening, Josie could no longer bear the anxiety. She walked straight up to Dexter, looked him in the eye, and pleaded, ¡°I beg you.¡±


    ¡°Josie,¡± said Dexter.


    ¡°I beg you! I willplete the task as soon as possible and earn Arnold¡¯s trust, but first, youmust share some information with me. You said it yourself that you would let me be involved.¡± Josie pleaded urgently, almost like a child. ¡°Please hurry, Dexter, I beg you, Paul can¡¯t have another episode.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡± Dexter tightly grasped her wrist with his injured hand, then pulled her into his embrace, soothing her softly, ¡°Don¡¯t panic, I¡¯ll figure something out. I won¡¯t let anything happen to your father. Trust me, all right?¡±


    He gently caressed her head, soothing her restless emotions, and repeatedly reassured her that everything was fine and that things would improve.


    The subtle aroma of tobo emanating from him truly pacified Josie. She gently pushed Dexter aside. ¡°Could you please do it a little faster?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±

 Chapter 1118

    The next day, Josie began participating in the project, single-handedly producing a tender proposal.


    Grape had grown ustomed to her mother¡¯s busyness. She sat obediently on one side, ying with her toys. ¡°Mom, has an old mane to our house? The housekeeper won¡¯t let me go over there.¡±


    Despite being engrossed in her work, Josie extended a hand, gently patting Grape¡¯s head. ¡°Hmm, he isn¡¯t feeling well. Once he gets a little better, I¡¯ll take you to see him, alright?¡±


    Grape widened her eyes. ¡°Give my medicine to him, and he will wake up faster.¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a bitter smile at her daughter¡¯s attentiveness.


    Just then, Dexter came down from the study, cing a few books on Josie¡¯s desk. ¡°These contain records of Rivodia¡¯s development over the past few years. They can help you quickly understand the situation,¡± he said.


    Josie pressed her lips together and nodded.


    Grape¡¯s eyes were sharp, causing her to tug at Dexter¡¯s arm. ¡°Mr. Russell, your hand is injured! Does it hurt?¡±


    The bandage was wrapped by Josie,plete with a bow on top.


    Dexter crouched down to bring himself to Grape¡¯s eye level. ¡°It does. Why don¡¯t you blow on it, Grape?¡±N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    The enthusiastic Grape immediately puffed up her cheeks and blew with all her might.


    ¡°Does it still hurt, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt anymore. That was very helpful. Thank you, Grape.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Grape was filled with delight and generously offered, ¡°If it still hurts, I¡¯ll blow on it for you again, Mr. Russell!¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Upon witnessing this scene, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel the corner of her mouth twitching. Dexter was quite skilled at interacting with children. At this moment, he was squatting on the ground, conversing with Grape in a childlike manner and looking every bit like a father.


    The sight simply mesmerized her.


    At that moment, the sound of a car echoed from outside, signaling Moses¡¯ return. Grape jumped up in joy. ¡°Mr. Chakov is back.¡±


    The way she mentioned Moses elicited a barely perceptible frown from Dexter. He was just getting up when he squatted back down and asked seriously, ¡°What did you call him?¡±


    Grape was puzzled. ¡°Mr. Chakov?¡±


    ¡°What about the secretary who is often by my side?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Peeple!¡±


    ¡°The bodyguard outside?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bodyguard!¡±


    ¡°What about me?¡±


    The conversation flowed smoothly until that moment, which filled Josie with a sense of foreboding. She interrupted them, asking, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Dexter did not respond to her.


    After giving it some serious thought, Grape said, ¡°You¡¯re Mr. Russell.¡±


    The way she addressed all of them made them seem equal in her eyes. Dexter simply sat down on the ground, holding Grape¡¯s chubby little hand as he said earnestly, ¡°Grape, I¡¯m sure you¡¯re smart enough to know that I am your father. Since I¡¯m your father, you can¡¯t call me Mr. Russell anymore.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie interrupted him, promptly closing herputer. Visibly upset, she chastised him, ¡°I didn¡¯t give you permission to tell her like that.¡±


    Dexter wore an expression of surprise. ¡°No matter what, I¡¯m her biological father. She is still so young, so she shouldn¡¯t have any cognitive obstacles imposed on her. Otherwise, how will you exin it to her when she grows up?¡±


    Josie acknowledged that he had a valid point, but she simply didn¡¯t want Grape to acknowledge him. ¡°Don¡¯t forget,¡± she cautioned, ¡°we only have a contract for a hundred days. I still have custody rights. Whether you¡¯ll be able to see her in the future is still uncertain.¡±


    They didn¡¯t want to argue in front of the child, but there were certain things that needed to be addressed upfront.


    ¡°Josie, have you forgotten? Once these hundred days are over, custody may not necessarily remain in your hands.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Grape listened to the argument between the two adults, her face filled with confusion, ¡°What should I call you then?¡±


    She knew that Dexter was her father, but since Josie had never mentioned it, she didn¡¯t dare to refer to him as such,Dexter gently caressed her soft hair. ¡°I am yourdaddy,¡± he said.


    ¡°However, unlike other children, your parents don¡¯t live together.¡±

 Chapter 1119

    Upon seeing the situation, Moses interjected, ¡°Justin has arrived.¡±


    ¡°Justin?¡± Josie immediately looked up and saw Justin leaning on his cane, curiously observing everything from outside.


    ¡°Why did you bring Justin here?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Moses replied, ¡°Mr. Russell instructed it.¡±


    Justin followed behind Moses and entered the spacious room. To his surprise, he saw Josie sitting to one side while Dexter was sitting on the floor, conversing with a child.


    When he saw the little girl, he widened his eyes and looked towards Josie.


    Ignoring them all, Dexter earnestly answered Grape¡¯s question. ¡°Because I once made a mistake that hurt your mother, we didn¡¯t live together. I owe an apology to your mother and you, Grape. But I promise, from now on, we will always be together, never to part again.¡±


    His ability to openly admit his mistakes in front of the child greatly surprised Josie.


    Pondering over these words, Grape posed a crucial question, ¡°What did Daddy do wrong, and has Mommy forgiven you?¡±


    Dexter lifted his gaze, locking eyes with Josie. ¡°Not yet, but I will try my best.¡±


    ¡°If Mommy doesn¡¯t forgive you, then I won¡¯t forgive you either.¡±


    Dexter remained calm. ¡°All right. I¡¯m d that you empathize with Mommy, but you can¡¯t call me Mr. Russell anymore, okay?¡±


    ¡°Mmm¡­ Daddy?¡±


    When Grape uttered the word ¡®Daddy¡¯ in her adorable voice, it nearly melted Dexter¡¯s heart. He couldn¡¯t bear the thought of his daughter suffering even the slightest hardship in her lifetime.


    Dexter curved his lips into a smile. ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°Can I continue to call you Daddy?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    A warmth flowed through Josie¡¯s heart, but she turned away instead of admitting it.


    Having resolved Grape¡¯s confusion, Dexter finally stood up. His previously gentle voice changed when he greeted Justin, ¡°You¡¯re here.¡±


    Justin was extremely wary. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Over the past two years, Moses, my subordinate, was the one who had been in contact with you. Weren¡¯t you aware of it?¡±


    Unwilling to ept the revtion, the dazed Justin shook his head.


    ¡°So now you know.¡±


    When Justin didn¡¯t respond, Moses exined with a smile, ¡°Rivodia is dangerous, and your identity is indeed controversial. Thus, this ce is both the most dangerous and also the safest.¡±


    Justin found it hard to believe that the boss he had been boasting about in front of Josie was none other than Dexter.


    After all that happened, Dexter still ended up there.


    ¡°Two years ago, was it you who sent someone to contact me?¡±


    ¡°You were determined to walk into the lion¡¯s den, and I knew I couldn¡¯t stop you. All I could do was lend you my support.¡±


    When Josie heard these words, she was somewhat taken aback. It turned out that he had been nning this since two years ago.


    ¡°So, you knew about everything I reported over these past two years?¡±


    Moses responded, ¡°In the past two years, any matters about you, big or small, would be personally reviewed and decided upon by Mr.Russell.¡±


    A long silence ensued.


    Josie turned around, only to see Justin frozen in ce, utterly at a loss for how to react. He swiftly changed the subject, ¡°So, who is this child?¡±


    In reality, Justin had heard everything that was said just now, but he still asked about it.


    Over the past few days, she had met many people. Hence, Grape had quickly wisened up. ¡°Hello, mister!¡±


    Only then did Josie chime in, ¡°This man is your uncle, you should call him Uncle Justin.¡±


    ¡°Uncle? Uncle Justin!¡±


    Justin gazed at Josie in disbelief. ¡°I can¡¯t believe what you¡¯ve done.¡±


    Not wanting to prolong the conversation, she suggested, ¡°Pop is about to wake up. You should go check on him.¡±


    Moses proceeded to inform Justin that he could visit Paul while staying there and ensure his safe recovery. After much persuasion, Justin finally acquiesced.

 Chapter 1120

    In just one night, Josiepleted the tender proposal. Early the next morning, she drove to L¡¯spany.


    The air was exceptionally fresh in the early morning. As she stepped outside, she noticed the front door of the mansion across the street was wide open. It seemed as if someone had already moved in. However, she didn¡¯t pay much attention to it.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°There¡¯s no issue with the contents of the tender proposal. I¡¯ve always had faith in your abilities. But the tender doesn¡¯t start until three days from now, so why are you in such a rush?¡± L asked after reading it.


    Josie gave a bitter smile. ¡°Is it that obvious?¡±


    ¡°The content here is too aggressive. It¡¯s not your style.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond directly. ¡°Perhaps I was too anxious for sess, desperately wanting to make a name for myself.¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t like you. What happened?¡± L remarked calmly.


    In Josie¡¯s mind, she was thinking that Paul couldn¡¯t afford to wait for three days, so she had to act as quickly as possible.


    Upon returning to Keller Group two yearster, Josie stood before the floor-to-ceiling window,only then realizing that she could see Bastille Group¡¯s skyscraper from her vantage point.


    L followed her gaze and said, ¡°What happened to Bastille Group was a pity. They eventually fell into decline.¡±


    After looking at it, Josie figured that Morgan¡¯s biggest mistake was allowing foreign investment, which led to the gradual erosion of his stake in thepany. However, from her perspective, Morgan didn¡¯t seem like the kind of person who could make such a decision.


    After leaving Keller Group, Josie made a phone call. Outside, a ck Porsche had pulled up. As the car window rolled down, it revealed Dexter¡¯s face, just as she expected.


    Nevertheless, the call had already connected. Arnold spoke in a hoarse voice, as if he had been awakened by her. ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Ms. Warren?¡±


    ¡°Start the tender early. I want to participate.¡±


    Taken aback for a moment, Arnold chuckled softly, ¡°You really do act like a daughter of an elite family, don¡¯t you? Do you think you can just simply demand it to be held earlier?¡±


    Dexter sat in the back seat, holding a bag of breakfast. He mouthed the words, ¡°Latte or milk?¡±


    ¡°My words don¡¯t carry any weight, but yours do,¡± Josie said as she sat down, choosing thette.


    Arnold rolled over in bed. ¡°Why should I take orders from you?¡±


    Josie countered, ¡°Where are you now?¡±


    ¡°Harringsay Building C,¡± he replied.


    ¡°Time to get up. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Josie looked at Dexter. ¡°Why are you here? Didn¡¯t we agree that I would go alone?¡±


    He handed her a sandwich, dodging the question. ¡°I made it with strawberry jam. Give it a try.¡±


    Josie truly couldn¡¯t imagine him making breakfast¡­ She asked skeptically, ¡°You wouldn¡¯tce it with poison, would you?¡±


    He raised an eyebrow. ¡°My daughter is at home, enjoying another sandwich buttered with chocte.¡±


    Only then did she take it.


    Meanwhile, Moses drove them to Harringsay Building C.


    After finishing her breakfast, Josie dusted her hands, feigning indifference as she said, ¡°What,


    don¡¯t you trust me? You¡¯ve gone to great lengths to follow me around.¡±


    ¡°I find it hard to be at ease when the one I care for is being sent into the lion¡¯s den.¡± He was indeed straightforward.


    Josie pursed her lips. She hadn¡¯t expected that after two years, Dexter had learned how to sweet talk.


    When they arrived at their destination, he opened the car door and said, ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you outside. If you don¡¯te out in twenty minutes, I¡¯lle in to find you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± she replied, aware that everything would be ruined the moment he entered.


    As Josie gracefully disappeared into the residential area, Moses couldn¡¯t help but worry. ¡®Mr. Russell, should we let her go in alone? What if Arnold has ulterior motives towards her¡­.


    Dexter¡¯s expression remained indifferent, radiating a confident triumph. ¡°Arnold lost the battle for Josie¡¯s heart two years ago.


    Upon reaching Arnold¡¯s ce, Josie knocked on the door. As expected, Arnold had just woken up, his eyes still blurry from sleep. Leaning against the doorframe, he raised an eyebrow and said, ¡°It¡¯s only eight o¡¯clock.¡±


    Josie walked straight into his ce, a room permeated with the smell of alcohol.

 Chapter 1121

    suddenly ask this?¡±


    Josie answered evasively, ¡°After seeing Arnold this time, it all came back to me.¡±


    I obviously had no authority to detain Edward. All I can tell you is that he¡¯s no longer under my control.¡±


    After Dexter finished, a series of footsteps followed, marking the end of the recording.


    Arnold voiced his thoughts. ¡°Did youe to me this early in the morning just to have me listen to such an ambiguous recording?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡±


    She pressed y on the second recording.


    This time, the sound of Dexter¡¯s voice seemed somewhat distant as he was engaged in a conversation with Larry.


    ¡°Can you investigate what Arnold told Josie?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°She suddenly asked me about Edward, which makes me suspicious¡­¡±


    Larry quickly interjected, ¡°Ms. Warren wouldn¡¯t be working for Arnold, would she? After all, her father is¡­.


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to say.¡± Dexter scoffed, ¡°She has betrayed me more than once, let alone when the cunning Arnold is involved.¡±


    ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll increase the manpower where Edward is being held. Speaking of which, the group that tried to break him out two years ago didn¡¯t seed, but it was quite a shocking event.¡±


    At this point in the yback, Josie looked up, intently studying Arnold¡¯s expression.


    He seemed somewhat distracted, as if he was discerning the authenticity of the recording.


    ¡°How long will it take for them to get there?¡± Dexter asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not far from Rivodia. They just need to go over the mountains of Southern Wavery. It wouldn¡¯t take more than five hours to reach.¡±


    Dexter grunted in acknowledgment, and the recording came to an end once again.


    Josie gripped the recorder tightly. ¡°Have I shown you enough for a meeting at eight in the morning?¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze was hard to read as he locked eyes with her. ¡°You¡¯vee to present something valuable to me, but how can I trust you? You live with Dexter. How can I know if you¡¯re not conspiring with him to deceive me?¡±


    Josie spoke calmly. ¡°Whether you believe it or not is up to you, but this is the furthest I can go. If I cross this line, he will find out. As for the authenticity of the recording, you can judge for yourself.¡±


    She deliberately made the statement because Dexter had once told her that two years ago, there indeed was a group of people who somehow discovered Edward¡¯s location and attempted to forcibly take him away. Had it not been for the timely reinforcement, they would have seeded.


    During that time, he lost quite a few of his close subordinates.


    Not many individuals were aware of this issue, consequently, they could use it as a bargaining chip to gain Arnold¡¯s trust.


    As expected, Arnold disyed a certain level of hesitation when confronted with Josie¡¯sposure.


    ¡°Arnold, I am also a human being, and therefore, not wless. My father¡¯s life rests in your hands. Can youprehend the magnitude of the risk I would be taking?¡±

 Chapter 1122

    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can send someone to investigate Southern Wavery right now and see if there¡¯s anything suspicious,¡± Josie tried to dispel his doubts. ¡°But I advise you to act quickly, as Dexter might be aware at any moment.


    Arnold stood up and approached her. He picked up an unopened bottle of beer and a lighter from the ground. With a casual flick of the lighter, the bottle cap fell to the ground with a clink.


    ¡°Care for a drink?¡± he asked, still ying the role of a good host.


    Josie turned her head away, her hatred and resentment evident.


    Arnold didn¡¯t insist. Instead, he lifted the bottle and took a few sips.


    ¡°The reason I came to see you so early is because I¡¯m afraid of being discovered. My child and my father are still waiting for me to return,¡± Josie exined, observing his brutish demeanor.


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond. He finished his drink and threw himself onto the couch. As he did so, his sleepwear slid upwards, revealing his scar- covered skin.


    He covered his head with a bolster. ¡°Why did I start the tender early?¡±


    This has nothing to do with her father.


    ¡°Dude,¡± Josie said with a smile, ¡°I still have a job. La Oriele is currently the talk of the town. Go and ask around, which designer wouldn¡¯t want to be a part of it and make a name for themselves?¡±


    ¡°Fame?¡± Arnold moved the pillow aside, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. ¡°Others might be after fame, but not you.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t sure whether to feel relieved or something else. Her voice softened as she said, ¡°Two years have passed. I¡¯ve changed too.¡±


    The mention of two years struck Arnold like a hammer to the back of his head. He was momentarily stunned, then he smirked and said, ¡°Two years.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Two years ago, whether it was the higher-ups or Dexter, they all invested significant resources in searching for you. How on earth did you manage to disappear and survive?¡±


    Upon hearing the question, Arnold briefly zoned out. He clicked his tongue and said, ¡°Only in desperate circumstances can one make a miracle happen.¡±


    He might as well have said nothing, but when Josie saw the scars on his body, she had anepiphany. He must have gone through unimaginable hardships to be the Robyn of today.


    She didn¡¯t want to delve further into the matter. ¡°Let me know if you want to start the tender early after you¡¯ve finished investigating Southern Wavery.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie walked to the foyer, gripping the doorknob tightly, and kept muttering to herself in her mind. Say something, hurry up and say something!


    ¡°It seems you¡¯re quite confident,¡± he remarked.


    She steeled her heart, opened the door, and left without hesitation.


    Dexter¡¯s car remained where it was earlier. As she approached, the car door swung open. With an air of calm andposure, Dexter said, ¡°Eighteen minutes and nine seconds. Your timing is impable.¡±


    Josie still felt somewhat uneasy. ¡°Will it work? Judging by Arnold¡¯s demeanor, he might not believe me.¡±


    He gestured for her to get in the car. ¡°Since he has found you, he will definitely believe you because he has no other choice.¡±


    He still had a good understanding of his former rival.


    The dawn light fell upon Dexter¡¯s brows and eyes, his demeanorposed and serene.


    Josie recalled the awkwardness they both felt during the recordingst night. In fact, they had to do several takes.


    At that time, he held his forehead with his hand. ¡°With you, I can¡¯t pretend to be indifferent.¡±


    Josie felt a mixture of annoyance and anxiety as she urged him, ¡°Please hurry up, why are you stillughing?¡±


    Observing her reaction, Dexter¡¯s smile grew wider. After a moment of silence, Josie, who stood by his side, watched with a sense of helplessness and sentimentality. He had always been so serious that it was surprising to see him so rxed.


    ¡°Josie?¡± Dexter called out to her, bringing her back from her reverie. Josie responded, ¡°Oh, I¡¯ming.¡±

 Chapter 1123

    On their way back to their home halfway up the hill, Moses was suddenly taken by surprise. ¡°Isn¡¯t that¡­ Mr. Bastille?¡±


    Dexter and Josie simultaneously looked up, only to see Morgan sitting leisurely in the yard of the mansion across the street, basking in the sun. In front of him, a pot of coffee was brewing, creating a serene atmosphere.


    Morgan? Why is he here?


    Confronted with the same confusion from Dexter, Josie responded immediately, ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. I have no idea.¡±


    After they got out of the car, Morgan opened his eyes. ¡°Oh, Mr. Russell, you¡¯re out early.¡±


    Dexter, on the other hand, showed no signs of surprise. He walked into Morgan¡¯s courtyard and said, ¡°Mr. Bastille, I¡¯vee to ask for a cup of coffee.¡±


    Morgan chuckled. ¡°My coffee is inexpensive. You might not find it to your liking.¡±


    He didn¡¯t pour Dexter a cup.


    Josie followed him inside. She immediately pulled Morgan up and led him further in, asking bluntly, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯m from Rivodia. What¡¯s the big deal about buying a house in the bestneighborhood of Rivodia?¡±


    Obviously, it wasn¡¯t a big deal, but how could it be such a coincidence that it happened to be right across the street from Dexter?


    With a sense of helplessness, Josie asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you go broke? Where did you get the money?¡±


    ¡°Am I that poor to you? I have more than enough to buy a house.¡± Morgan moved closer to her, his demeanor servile yet respectful. ¡°In fact, even after supporting you and your child for a lifetime, I still have plenty left.¡±


    Hearing his remark, Josie couldn¡¯t help but turn toward him. ¡°You¡¯re crazy, you didn¡¯t¡­ move here because of me, did you?¡±


    It was a rather narcissistic thought, but indeed, it was something he was likely capable of doing.


    Morgan spoke honestly. ¡°That¡¯s right. You and Dexter haven¡¯t reconciled, so I still have a chance, don¡¯t I?¡±


    Josie let out a sigh. ¡°I even have a child now. If you want to find a partner, you can have anyone, and I believe you¡¯ve been searching plenty these past two years, so why are you still hung up on me?¡±


    She truly doubted that Morgan had this muchsentimental attachment to his first love.


    Morgan chuckled. ¡°You really do understand me.¡±


    Outside, Dexter did note in. He poured himself a cup of coffee, took a sip, and seemed to have no qualms about it.


    ¡°But you¡¯re different,¡± Morgan said seriously. ¡°What does it matter if you have a child? I didn¡¯t even care when you got married.¡±


    Josie was left speechless, choking on his words. Before she left, she said curtly. ¡°Whatever. Stay if you love it so much.¡±


    Seeing Josie emerge, Dexter bypassed her and said to Morgan with a smile, ¡°Mr. Bastille, this coffee is indeed a bit subpar.¡±


    ¡°So, you still had a drink.¡± Morgan settled back into his recliner. ¡°We¡¯ll be seeing each other often in the future. Do drop by when you¡¯re free.¡±


    Josie paid no heed to their conversation, continuing to walk away. Dexter responded with an ¡°okay¡± before following her.


    ¡°He insisted oning. There¡¯s nothing I can do. After some thought, she decided to exin.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Dexter opened the door for her,his gaze fixed on the figure ying with grapes by the floor-to-ceiling window. ¡°There¡¯s more to Morgan than meets the eye.¡±


    Josie was well aware of it too.


    But upon further thought, she said, ¡°The same goes for you.¡±


    Dexter smiled.


    It was no longer early. Justin had already gotten up, and even Paul seemed a bit more energetic. He had taken the medicine prescribed by Jeremy and was feeling slightly better.


    At that moment, he was sitting on the sofa with his cane, watching Grape y andugh happily.


    Grape picked up the bubble ball from the ground and handed it to Paul, saying, ¡°Here you go.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll take it!¡± Paul was still able to respond.


    After watching for a while, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sadness. If only Paul knew that this was his own granddaughter, how wonderful that would be.


    Dexter noticed something was wrong with her. Hisrge handnded on her shoulder, gently patting it to providefort.

 Chapter 1124

    About four hours after returning to the mansion, Josie¡¯s phone rang just as she had put Grape to sleep for her afternoon nap.


    It was a call from Arnold.


    She looked up and made eye contact with Dexter, who was washing a milk bottle.


    After answering the phone, Arnold¡¯s voice came throughzily. ¡°The deadline has been moved up.¡±


    After saying that, he abruptly ended the call.


    Facing Dexter¡¯s inquisitive gaze, Josie repeated Arnold¡¯s words and then said, ¡°It seems his men havepleted their investigation. But¡­ is Edward really being held there?¡±


    Dexter turned on the tap at the sink, rinsing the milk bottle. ¡°Since I allowed you to deliver the message to him personally, there must be some truth to it.¡±


    ¡°But what if Arnold sends men to break him out directly?¡±


    Dexter scoffed, ¡°If he had dared to do so, he wouldn¡¯t have called you.¡±


    Indeed.


    After washing the baby bottle, the gauze wrapped around Dexter¡¯s hand got wet. Hefurrowed his brow. ¡°I forgot, now I have to rewrap it.¡±


    Josie red at him, seemingly unaware of what he was implying. ¡°What exactly is in that ce that Arnold wouldn¡¯t dare attempt a rescue?¡±


    Dexter picked up a roll of fresh gauze and walked over to her. ¡°It¡¯s a prison.¡±


    Josie was speechless.


    Seeing her surprise, Dexter exined, ¡°As I¡¯ve said before, I don¡¯t have the authority to detain him, but I do have some influence in keeping him there. That ce is reserved for hardcore criminals. Arnold wouldn¡¯t dare to recklessly break him out.¡±


    As the realization sank in, she remarked, ¡°So Arnold has no choice but to approach me.¡±


    He took her silence as agreement. Seeing her unmoving, he reached out his hand. ¡°Josie, please do the honors.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, then turned to leave. ¡°I¡¯m tired. I need to take a nap with Grape. You should go.¡±


    With that, the door closed.


    Dexter stood alone at the doorway, ncing at the damp gauze. He shook his head with a bitter smile, realizing that he had made amistake.


    Meanwhile, the deadline was moved up by three days, catching many of the participating teams off guard. When Josie went to the site, she did not let Dexter apany her. He felt uneasy about it, so hepromised and chose a suitable candidate to go with her.


    ¡°Actually, I was quite surprised that you agreed to that ridiculous contract with Dexter.¡± Mallory casually brushed her hair while driving.


    ¡°The feeling of having one¡¯s weakness exploited is terrible,¡± Josie said, touching up her makeup in front of the mirror.


    ¡°Does Grape know about his identity?¡±


    ¡°She has always known.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s quite impressive. The heiress to Russell Group. Grape really knows how to choose her parents.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie let out a sigh, not particrly fond of that identity.


    Mallory nced at the rearview mirror. ¡°There¡¯s been a car following us, maintaining a distance of about twenty meters. I don¡¯t recognize it. Are they Dexter¡¯s men?¡±


    Josie looked over and recognized the familiar license te. She took out her phone anddialed a number. ¡°Why are you following me?¡±


    ¡°Rivodia is dangerous. I¡¯ll be your bodyguard.¡± Morgan¡¯s distinct voice came through. ¡°Dexter doesn¡¯t treat you well. He doesn¡¯t even assign someone to apany you when you go out, so I have no choice but to do it.¡±


    Mallory almost burst outughing, her voice filled with mockery. ¡°When I first met Morgan a few years ago, I never thought he had the potential to be a simp.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t want to waste time with him, so she promptly hung up the phone.


    To be honest, I don¡¯tprehend it. It¡¯s evident to me that his outwardly carefree demeanor is merely a facade. He shouldn¡¯t have been utterly devastated by Dexter.¡± Josie hesitated. ¡°However, it appears that he haspletely lost his drive.¡±


    ¡°Has something urred within the Bastille family?¡±


    After pondering for a moment, Mallory responded, ¡°I haven¡¯t heard anything.¡±

 Chapter 1125

    Upon arriving at the venue, Josie immediately spotted Arnold. In front of his seat, there was a namete that read: Robyn.


    The crowd in the venue was engaged in small group conversations. Arnold greeted her from across the room, silently mouthing, ¡°Looking forward to your speech.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t pay much attention. L had already conducted background checks on all the teams that would be present today. In Josie¡¯s experienced eyes, their abilities were average at best.


    Her phone suddenly rang. It was L. ¡°Hello? I¡¯ve arrived at the venue.¡±


    L¡¯s tone was unpleasant on the other end. ¡°There¡¯s been aplication. An additional team has joined the tender.¡±


    Suddenly, Josie had a bad feeling. She turned around to look at the door and asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°nk.¡±


    Josie¡¯s body tensed up.


    The studio she had personally established was nowpletely handed over to Alice, Laura, and the others.


    How is this possible? Weren¡¯t they in Wavery?


    ¡°Are you okay, Alice?¡± L asked over the phone.


    Little did he know that Josie was watching Alice enter the venue with a few people. There were familiar faces, as well as strangers. They were all dressed professionally, as if they were fully prepared.


    Josie turned around, looking at Arnold once again.


    As if he could clearly read every detail of her expression, he gave her a gentle smile and silently mouthed the word, ¡°Surprise!¡±


    I knew it wouldn¡¯t be that easy. Competing against my oldpany is quite ruthless.


    Josie ended the call. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    Alice and the others found a ce to sit down. They didn¡¯t seem to recognize Josie. When she looked closely, she saw Jade behind Alice, but Angel was nowhere to be found.


    After some consideration, she decided not to greet them.


    Soon, the tender began. The host started introducing each team. When it was Josie¡¯s turn, Alice looked over and was stunned.


    The host said, ¡°Alice, the design director of Keller Group and the backbone of thpany.Josie and Alice exchanged nces, her lips curving into a slight smile as she nodded gently.


    Alice¡¯splexion was somewhat pale, and she showed a hint of suppressed emotion.


    The tender process was almost without suspense. Keller Group was a localpany in Rivodia, and Josie¡¯s reputation was internationally renowned. Thus, she easily won the bid.


    After Arnold announced the results, he added, ¡°Nevertheless, nk of Wavery¡¯s design philosophy is equally distinctive and aligns well with La Oriele¡¯s concept. We have decided to appoint them as Alice¡¯s assistant, and the two teams will coborate on the design.¡±


    Josie tightly gripped her pen, wishing she could strangle Arnold.


    If I needed assistance, Keller Group has plenty. Why insist on involving old acquaintances? What is he really up to?


    Nevertheless, the apuse from below filled the air.


    After it ended, Alice immediately approached Josie. ¡°You¡­¡±


    There was so much she wanted to say, but the words just wouldn¡¯te out. ¡°You¡¯ve returned. Why didn¡¯t you go back to Wavery?¡±


    Josie found herself unable to exin her situation, so she could only offer a smile. ¡°It¡¯s been two years. All of you have grown so much, especially after giving that speech just now. Jade¡¯s ideas are quite progressive.¡±


    Just as excited, Jade chimed in when prompted, ¡°Ms. Jo, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    The remaining employees didn¡¯t understand why the boss was so emotional, their faces filled with confusion. Alice¡¯s reputation was well-known, but it wasn¡¯t enough to warrant such a reaction.


    ¡°Thisdy is the founder of the studio,¡± Alice said earnestly.


    They immediately expressed their admiration for Josie.


    ¡°Everything that happened before is now behind us, Josie remarked while gathering her belongings and preparing to leave. ¡°It appears that our business is thriving, and we are even venturing into Rivodia.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°La Oriele is currently very popr, so we were enticed to give it a shot. Initially, we didn¡¯t consider it seriously because of the significant distance involved, but Robyn reached out to us with a gesture of goodwill.¡±

 Chapter 1126

    At this point, Alice interrupted, ¡°By the way, I just saw Robyn. I think he looks remarkably simr to Arnold! He¡­¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t reveal the truth, so she simply shook her head. ¡°How many of you came? Where is Laura? How is she?¡±


    ¡°Speak of the devil, she¡¯s here. She happened to be in Rivodia and said she would take us out to celebrate today.¡± As Alice lifted her head, she was surprised to see a woman leaning elegantly against a luxury sedan not far away.


    Laura was wearing a long green dress and delicately holding a thin cigarette in her hand. She was not only beautiful but had also matured significantly.


    Josie looked over and saw the parking lot. Mallory and Morgan¡¯s cars were also parked there. Mallory was on the phone with someone, while Morgan sat in his car, positioned directly opposite Laura.


    Josie walked over, calling out, ¡°Laura!¡±


    The woman who was smoking hesitated for a moment. When she looked over, her face instantly lit up with delight. ¡°Josie?¡±


    She extinguished her cigarette and quickly stepped forward to hug Josie.


    This might have been the first time Laura sawJosie, but it wasn¡¯t the first time Josie saw her, so she was much calmer.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were back? How did you end up here?¡±


    Mallory was on the phone when she heard themotion and immediately looked over.


    Josie shook her head at her.


    In the end, she got into Laura¡¯s car, and Mallory left by herself.


    The two of them spent a lot of time catching up on the events of the past two years. Laura carefully looked at Josie. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you returned to Wavery? Mom and Dad miss you a lot.¡±


    Mom and Dad? Upon hearing this address, Josie was taken aback.Realizing something was wrong, Laura decided not to ask any further.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯ve managed the Olsen family business brilliantly these past two years. I¡¯m impressed.¡± Josie expressed her sincere admiration. She nced at the rearview mirror, suddenly realizing that Morgan was not following them.


    She knew that he was someone fickle, so his stint as a ¡°bodyguard¡± would neverst long.


    ¡°Not really. I had to learn along the way.¡±


    ¡°As for Zach, he probably can¡¯t do anything to you, right?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Laura¡¯s hand, which was gripping the steering wheel, stiffened momentarily. It seemed as if she was pondering over the underlying intentions behind Josie¡¯s question.


    ¡°He, of course, can¡¯t do anything.¡±


    ¡°I can see that. The moment I returned to the country, your magazine cover was the first thing I saw.¡± In reality, it wasn¡¯t that, but rather the sight of Laura entwined with another man, something she found inappropriate to mention.


    Josie was merely teasing without any ill intentions, but a vein in Laura¡¯s neck suddenly throbbed. She seemed to have thought of something and became somewhat nervous. ¡°Is that so? You seem to have a keen eye then.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand, so she leaned in and asked, ¡°Who is the man on the cover?¡±


    Laura furrowed her brows, scrutinizing Josie¡¯s face. ¡°You¡­ don¡¯t recognize him?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? Do I know him?¡±


    Josie wore a look of confusion, which somewhat reassured Laura. ¡°Oh, you don¡¯tknow him.¡± Laura exined evasively, ¡°He works in finance.¡±


    Josie, noticing her reluctance to answer, decided not to press further.


    She simply patted Laura¡¯s hand tofort her.


    There was a dinner gathering for the studio¡¯s staff that night, and Laura had reserved the best seats. Josie initially didn¡¯t want to go, but considering the imminent coboration between the two parties, she ultimately decided to.


    She made a video call to Dexter, but to her surprise, Grape answered. In a sweet tone, Grape called out, ¡°Mommy.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Sweetie, why are you answering the phone?¡±


    ¡°Daddy is at work and left his phone on the couch. I picked it up when it rang.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile unconsciously grew even sweeter as she reassured Grape that she woulde home a bitter, so there was no need for Grape to worry.


    Grape acknowledged her words without crying or causing a fuss.


    Observing everything, Laura smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m so jealous of you. Your daughter is so well- behaved.¡±

 Chapter 1127

    Josie smiled faintly. ¡°There will be.¡±


    Laura looked ahead. ¡°From your phone call, it sounded like you¡¯ve made up with Dexter?¡±


    That was indeed a difficult question to answer. After thinking for a moment, Josie responded, ¡°No. We are only together because of the child.¡±


    Laura gave her a gentle smile and asked, ¡°Do you want me to tell Mom and Dad that I ran into you? You can¡¯t keep hiding like this forever.¡±


    Unconsciously, Josie tightened her grip on her phone. Hearing how Laura referred to Mark and udia, Josie felt that Laura sounded more familiar and affectionate than she ever had when addressing the couple. It made her feel even more like a stranger.


    ¡°No need. I¡¯ll let things take their course.¡±


    Laura pursed her lips, choosing not to say more.


    The gathering took ce at the finest restaurant in Rivodia. Laura had secured the best spot, offering a panoramic view of the river.


    During the banquet, she stepped out to take a call. Josie chatted with Alice, Jade, and the others for a while. Then she asked, ¡°Where is Angel? Didn¡¯t shee this time?¡±


    Jade¡¯s expression subtly changed when she heard that name. Alice gave a bitter smile. ¡°She has already resigned.¡±


    ¡°Resigned?¡±


    ¡°Yes. She got married. Didn¡¯t she tell you?¡±


    Josie was taken aback. As far as she remembered, Angel had recently graduated from university. She got married so quickly? ¡°Who did she marry?¡±


    Jade¡¯s expression shifted from rxed to grim, even carrying a hint of resentment. ¡°Ryan.¡±


    Josie fell silent.


    For a moment, she almostughed out of frustration. Before leaving, Angel had assured her so confidently that they would separate, but not only did they not break up, they even got married.


    Helplessly, Alice said, ¡°Don¡¯t me her. She might have been too afraid to tell you.¡±


    Josie shook her head, deciding not to dwell on it anymore. Just then, her phone rang. It was a return call from Dexter. She walked to the balcony and answered, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re at a gathering?¡±


    In the video call, Dexter wore a seriousexpression.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°How did the bidding go?¡±


    Subconsciously, Josie shielded her phone, not wanting others to see Dexter, which resulted in her adopting a somewhat awkward posture.


    ¡°Do I really need to tell you? Shouldn¡¯t your informant at the scene have immediately reported the results to you?¡± Josie¡¯s tone was aggressive and tinged with a hint of resentment.


    Dexter fell silent for a moment on the other end of the call. Indeed, he already knew.


    He had asked that question just to hear her response.


    After a pause, he rephrased his question, ¡°Who¡¯s at the gathering?¡±


    After thinking for a moment, Josie asked, ¡°Are you checking up on me?¡±


    Dexter fell silent once again. ¡°Grape misses you.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Josie didn¡¯t reply.


    ¡°Forget it,¡± he said. ¡°The kid is at home, so don¡¯t drink.¡±


    What¡¯s with his tone? Josie rolled her eyes and hung up the phone. She didn¡¯t appreciate being bossed around at that moment.


    A second before she ended the video call, Laura happened to step into her camera view, and Dexter caught sight of her.


    He stared at the darkened screen while lightly tapping his finger.


    After finishing her call, Laura returned and apologized, ¡°Sorry, I was a bit busy.¡±


    Josie alsoughed, unsure if it was just her imagination. After two years of not seeing each other, she felt even more distant from Laura. It wasn¡¯t a physical distance that separated them, but rather a gap in their beliefs and social status.


    In the past, they had never experienced such a sense of unfamiliarity.


    During the dinner conversation, the topic shifted to the La Oriele project. Laura expressed her thoughts, saying, ¡°I have thoroughly researched it, and I must say, this project presents a wonderful opportunity for our studio. I am delighted that all of you can coborate once again. However, Alice, considering your reputation, what made you decide to take on this project?¡±


    Josie carefully removed a fishbone from hermeal and replied, ¡°You¡¯re a capitalist now. Naturally, you wouldn¡¯t understand the challenges we office workers face, having toply with everymand from our superiors.¡±


    Laura wore a half-smile, but she didn¡¯t believe Josie¡¯s words.


    She had barely been seated for five minutes when another call came in. The moment she answered, Josie recognized the voice on the other end.

 Chapter 1128

    Before Josie could react, Laura had already left with her phone in hand.


    Josie found it strange. The voice sounded familiar, but she couldn¡¯t quite ce it. She instinctively followed Laura outside.


    Outside, there was a lot of activity. Laura took the elevator, and Josie watched as the numbers changed. When she realized Laura was only one floor above, she decided to take the stairs.


    Just as Josie reached the top step, she saw Laura being led around the corner by a man withrge hands.


    Confused, Josie furrowed her brows. Could this be the man who had called her? But why does he seem so familiar?


    She stepped forward to get a better view. As she approached, she overheard their conversation. Laura was angry. ¡°Do you care about her that much? It¡¯s just a meal. I¡¯m not going to harm her.¡±


    Josie wondered who the man was.


    The man remained silent. There was a sound of objects crashing, followed by Laura¡¯s startled cry.


    Perhaps the man was speaking too closely to Laura, so his words were unclear.


    Laura¡¯s voice grew louder. ¡°I did it on purpose! I was being petty. I wanted to see how far you would go for her. Are you satisfied now?¡±


    Then Josie heard the sound of a p.


    Josie¡¯s heart pounded with shock. She hadn¡¯t expected Laura to be humiliated in front of others. Who could it be? Could it be the man I sawst time?


    She was about to go inside, but then she heard footstepsing from inside, moving towards the exit.


    Josie furrowed her brows, unsure of where to go. However, at that moment, the door to a private room beside her swung open, and a hand reached out, pulling her inside.


    ¡°Who is it!¡± Josie eximed in shock, her back against the door. She followed the hand and saw a bandage, and then a familiar face.


    ¡°Dexter?¡± She was surprised to see him.


    He was wearing a white shirt with rolled-up cuffs, and he remainedposed.


    ¡°The door wasn¡¯t closed. I¡¯ve been watching you for a while.¡±


    Choked with emotion, Josie asked, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Dexter let go of her. ¡°I have a social engagement, and I just arrived.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He stepped back, and when Josie looked up, she noticed several middle-aged men and women sitting around a round table. They seemed intelligent and gentle, like people of influence. Instead of being surprised to see Josie, they smiled knowingly.


    ¡°What a coincidence. We¡¯ve met before.¡±


    Josie was even more stunned. These were the same people she had seenst time with Wayne. No, that was when Arnold was pretending to be Mr. Dalton.


    She greeted them politely.


    Dexter casually ced his hand on her waist. ¡°Have you eaten enough? Would you like to eat some more?¡±


    As she approached, a voice called out, ¡°Mommy!¡±


    The voice belonged to Grape. She had been ying with her toys, but when she heard Josie¡¯s voice, she immediately jumped up.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened as she quickly stepped forward. Then, she turned to Dexter and scolded him, ¡°Why did you bring her here?¡±


    Grape ran into Josie¡¯s arms and took the lead insaying, ¡°Mommy, I missed you. I asked Daddy to bring me to see you.¡±


    She spoke eloquently with a whimsical charm.However, Josie felt the need to cover Grape¡¯s mouth because she couldn¡¯t bear the stares from those around her.


    But someone jokingly remarked, ¡°No wonder Mr. Russell invited us to dinner in the middle of the night. It turns out it was for his beloveddy.¡±


    They smiled kindly, causing Josie to feel embarrassed and her ears to burn. Why doesn¡¯t he know how to maintain a proper distance in public?


    Dexter stood with one hand behind his back, pretending as if no one was watching. He said to Josie, ¡°It¡¯s not just Grape who misses you, but me as well.¡±


    Josie wanted to scold him, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to do it in front of so many people.


    The others had already started to create amotion, even raising their sses. ¡°Mr. Russell, can we expect good news from you soon?¡±


    Everyone present knew that the woman before them was the Josie they knew from the past.

 Chapter 1129

    Dexter shook his head, wearing a faint smile. ¡°I don¡¯t have the authority to decide that.¡±


    Josie sat rigidly, her expression unpleasant. If he had answered affirmatively, she would have immediately turned and left. Thankfully, Dexter didn¡¯t.


    Grape observed her mother¡¯s expression and softly said, ¡°Mommy, don¡¯t me Daddy. It¡¯s because I missed you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s rigid expression softened slightly as she gently patted Grape¡¯s head.


    Laura was probably fine now. She had sent Josie a message, informing her that everyone had dispersed and asking where she was.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Josie couldn¡¯t tell her that Dexter was there, so she had to make up an excuse, saying she had something to attend to and left early.


    Dexter skillfully turned thezy Susan and asked again, ¡°Would you like more to eat?¡±


    After pondering over things all night, Josie hadn¡¯t really eaten enough. She decided to ept his offer, reasoning that she could upset anyone but notpromise her own sustenance.


    Annoyed, she picked up her fork.


    Dexter curved his lips and instructed theattendant to prepare a small te. He filled it with some food that Grape could eat before attentively feeding her.


    Grape wasn¡¯t picky and ate whatever food Dexter fed her.


    The people around were stunned by the scene before them. Never in a million years would they have expected Dexter to have such a personal side. He was the epitome of a perfect father.


    In contrast, Josie didn¡¯t mind at all. She believed that since he had brought the child, he should naturally take full responsibility.


    As she ate, she asked softly, ¡°Do you know who took Laura away?¡±


    Dexter was ying with Grape. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°But you just pulled me!¡±


    ¡°All I knew was that you were in danger, and I couldn¡¯t let you be in danger.¡±


    Josie fell silent.


    For a moment, she didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    She deeply pondered Laura¡¯s situation. ¡°I find it quite strange. Laura has always been evasive, not telling me who that man is. But why do I feel a sense of familiarity? Could it be that Iactually know him?¡±


    ¡°By the way, that man isn¡¯t treating her well! He hit her!¡± Josie added, agitated.


    ¡°Josie,¡± Dexter interjected.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°A year ago, there were foreign investors who attempted to forcefully establish themselves within the Olsen family, intending to dismantle them just as they had done to the Bastille Group. At that time, only Laura from the decision-making body opposed it. She stood against the majority, and it was her efforts that saved the Olsen family. It was after that incident that Mark granted her a higher position.¡±


    After Dexter finished speaking, word by word, Josie still didn¡¯t understand what he was trying to tell her. ¡°And then?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you understand yet? She¡¯s not a woman who can be easily manipted. Unless this man can offer significant assistance to her personally or to her career, to the extent that their rise and fall are linked.¡±


    Josie began to understand. Indeed, Laura isn¡¯t a hopeless romantic. Yet, she chooses to stay despite the way she is treated. This indicates that the man is of great importance to her.


    Josie was still curious. ¡°Who could it be?¡±


    Her thoughts raced, and halfway through, she blurted out, ¡°You¡¯ve hit me too¡±


    Dexter¡¯s action of feeding Grape abruptly froze. He saw Grape staring intently at him with herrge, bright eyes. He softly said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    If he had known that his decision would cause her such great pain, he would never have done it.


    Although Josie no longer cared as much, every time she thought about that incident, a dull ache would arise in her heart. She spoke with a sarcastic tone, ¡°You pped me and abandoned me in the rain, all for a fake Liana. I remember waiting for you all night, but you never returned.¡±


    As she uttered those words, the pain in her chest grew stronger. It became evident that the matter had never truly been resolved.


    Dexter felt equally distressed, although he believed he had no right to feel that way. Gripping his spoon tightly, he confessed, ¡°I am a monster.¡±


    Josie found it amusing and moved closer to him, speaking slowly. ¡°Do you know why I waited for you?¡±


    He lifted his gaze, filled with remorse


    ¡°Back then, I already knew I was Liana. I wanted to tell you, but you never gave me the opportunity.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s guilt intensified.

 Chapter 1130

    The man¡¯s eyes were moist, resembling those of a remorseful little boy who had done something wrong. They were filled with guilt and helplessness.


    Josie remembered thest time she saw him like this. It was when she was about to leave Wavery to embark on a distant journey. At that time, he was alsopletely helpless.


    Dexter gently ced his soup spoon down, struggling to speak as Grape looked on with confusion. ¡°S-Sometimes, I can be too arrogant and end up hurting your feelings.¡±


    Unbeknownst to them, the other people at the table had gradually left, leaving only the two of them in the private room.


    Josie absorbed his words. With a fork in one hand and her face propped up by the other, she gazed out of the floor-to-ceiling window at the breathtaking view of the river. Suddenly, she said, ¡°Dexter, look at that river.¡±


    He looked up. ¡°What about it?¡±


    ¡°It has existed for decades, even centuries. Compared to that, isn¡¯t our affair trivial?¡± Josie spoke with a tone of eptance. ¡°I remember the pain, but it doesn¡¯t matter anymore. I have made peace with the challenges we faced in the past.¡±


    Her exnation did not bring Dexter any relief.


    His brows furrowed even more tightly. ¡°In the two years after you left, I often couldn¡¯t sleep. I wondered if I had considered your feelings more in our ns, maybe we wouldn¡¯t have ended up where we are today.¡±


    After Josie finished eating, she picked up Grape. ¡°There are no ¡®what ifs¡¯.¡±


    The divide between the two of them extended far beyond just those issues.


    She walked out without hesitation, but upon reflection, she felt something was wrong. She handed Grape to Dexter, gently coaxing her, ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon. Be a good girl, okay?¡±


    Grape asked from Dexter¡¯s arms, ¡°Where are you going, Mommy?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m going home.¡±


    However, exining the situation to acquaintances while with a child could be quite troublesome. Josie would rather let Dexter handle that hassle.


    She straightened up. ¡°Don¡¯t take Grape to red- light districts.¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay¡±


    As expected, when Josie left the restaurant, she indeed ran into someone she knew.


    Morgan was only wearing a shirt, carrying a suit in his hand, as if he had juste out of a meeting. A thought struck Josie, and she quickly approached him. ¡°Morgan!¡±


    He abruptly stopped walking and turned around. In a matter of seconds, his face lit up with a smile. ¡°Jo, what a coincidence!¡±


    Naturally, Josie was skeptical. She gestured for him to follow her outside. ¡°I need to ask you something.¡±


    A subtle glimmer appeared in Morgan¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll answer any questions you have.¡±


    ¡°Your assistant, I remember his name is Ryan. Is he still working for you?¡±


    Morgan¡¯s smile slightly stiffened, and there was a hint of disbelief in his voice. ¡°Why are you asking about that?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t I ask?¡±


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t even care about me, but you care about my assistant?¡± Morgan held the door open for her.


    ¡°Just tell me if he¡¯s still working for you.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s expression became subtle. He lifted his chin slightly, gesturing towards a car. Josie was taken aback as she saw a man standing there. That person was none other than Ryan.


    Josie nodded. ¡°He¡¯s married, isn¡¯t he?¡±


    Morgan understood her intention. ¡°Why are you asking this? Are you trying to defend your ex- employee?¡±


    Through the ss door, Josie could clearly see Dexter¡¯s figure. He wasing down in the elevator, holding Grape in his arms. Even while carrying a child, his demeanor remained poised and elegant.


    He was excessively showy, disying no concern for his own reputation. Josie spected that within a matter of days, the entire city would be aware that he had a daughter.


    ¡°I genuinely pity that girl. She is still very young.¡±


    ¡°You got married at a young age as well,¡± Morgan sarcastically remarked.


    ¡°That¡¯s precisely why. You¡¯ve witnessed the oue for me, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    Morgan was at a loss for words. You know what? She is right.


    No need to mention it, there is some truth to her statement.

 Chapter 1131

    Josie moved closer to Morgan. ¡°Listen carefully, I¡¯m saying this to you, not Ryan. If he dares to treat Angel poorly, I¡¯ll being after you first.¡±


    After hearing her warning, Morgan felt nonplussed. However, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Dexter¡¯s figure. Suddenly, he reached out, pulling Josie closer to himself by her head. His breath fanned across her face, carrying with it a certain sense of intimidation.


    Josie furrowed her brows, wanting to break free, but Morgan wouldn¡¯t allow it.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m actually looking forward to it.¡±


    When the scene unfolded before Dexter, his lips pressed tightly together.


    Morgan released Josie subsequently, throwing a provocative nce in Dexter¡¯s direction before cheerfully heading to where Ryan was.


    Josie didn¡¯t take it to heart. However, the scent that Morgan emitted when he passed by her left her stunned, one that she was vaguely familiar with.


    Where have I smelled it before?


    After Laura and the others had left, Josie had no choice but to take a taxi home. Even as she walked onto the street, she was still wondering where she had smelled that scent before.


    I remember now!


    She squinted her eyes. Laura.


    After Josie spent the evening with Laura, thetter¡¯s distinctive perfume had rubbed off on her. Josie lifted her hand to sniff, and sure enough, it was there. However, the scent she had just smelled was unmistakably from Morgan.


    Is it him? Josie¡¯s face darkened, a sense of foreboding washing over her.


    She didn¡¯t notice when a car pulled up in front of her. The window rolled down and from it came Moses¡¯ teasing words. ¡°Miss, need a ride?¡±


    Regaining her senses, Josie was startled to see Grape¡¯s chubby face pressed against the rear car window, her eyes filled with longing. ¡°Mommy, let¡¯s go home,¡± she said.


    Dexter was surprisingly by the side.


    Subconsciously, Josie nced down. The ride- hailing app indicated that there were still fifty- five people ahead of her.


    Fine, I¡¯m not going to argue with Dexter over this.


    However, once she got in the car, the atmosphere grew strange. Dexter shot her a nce. ¡°So you dumped the kid on me just tomeet your ex-boyfriend.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. How did he know? ¡°You must have seen me.¡±


    She was quite confident about it.Unable to vent the frustration within him, Dexter rolled down the car window, letting the cold breeze in.


    Josie didn¡¯t say much more. Instead, she carried Grape to y with her. However, thetter was observant, whispering, ¡°Daddy is upset.¡±


    As if she didn¡¯t hear it, Josie yfully squeezed Grape¡¯s chubby hand.


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter finally couldn¡¯t contain himself.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    Dexter found himself unable to voice his thoughts, as the two of them were currently not in an official rtionship.


    However, it wasn¡¯t until they returned to their residence that they found Morgan¡¯s car conveniently parked at the entrance. Dexter was the first to get out of the car and headed straight to the study.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Justin was just munching on a cucumber when he came out and saw Dexter¡¯s retreating figure.


    ¡°Oh, what happened?¡±


    Josie ignored him as usual. With the help of the servants, she bathed Grape and coaxed thetter to sleep before leisurely returning to her room. However, just as she reached a corner, arge hand pulled her into it. A sharp pain shot up Josie¡¯s spine, and when she looked up, she saw Dexter, barely concealing his anger.


    She remained calm. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Dexter stared at her rosy lips. ¡°The hundred-day contract isn¡¯t over yet. Meeting your ex- boyfriend in front of me isn¡¯t quite appropriate, Ms. Warren.¡±


    It must be because of what happened earlier.


    Josie struggled to break free. ¡°Don¡¯t push your luck. We only have a contract. I didn¡¯t sell myself to you. Do I need to report to you about who I socialize with?¡±


    She raised an eyebrow, emphasizing, ¡°Ex- husband.¡±


    Rendered speechless, Dexter ced his finger on her lips, gently caressing them. ¡°How feisty.¡±


    ¡°The bidding had ended, and the project is about tomence. What do you have to show in your report to Arnold?¡±

 Chapter 1132

    ¡°You!¡±


    The implication was that she still had to yield to him in the end.


    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± he responded calmly.


    ¡°You monster.¡±


    Dexter did not let her go. With desire welling up within him, he forcefully suppressed it. ¡°Weigh your options. Do you want to fight against me, or against Arnold?¡±


    ¡°Both of you are monsters!¡±


    Dexter took two steps back before giving her a lingering nce, signaling her to think things through carefully.


    Listening to the sound of Dexter¡¯s footsteps as he descended the stairs, Josie fiercely wiped her lips, wanting to erase his warmth. Halfway through her action, she suddenly stopped. What is going on? Is Dexter jealous?


    Just then, Dexter descended thest flight of stairs. Standing before him was Grape, clutching a doll and looking pitiful.


    The servant hurriedly exined, ¡°Grape refuses to sleep, insisting on finding you.¡±


    Grape¡¯s voice was hoarse. ¡°I want to sleep with Daddy.¡±


    Upon hearing themotion, Josie immediately came out, directly refusing on the stairs, ¡°No, Grape. Sleep by yourself!¡±


    The grape looked even more pitiful now, her eyes brimming with tears, while her mouth creased into a pout. ¡°You¡¯re mean, Mommy.¡±


    Before long, tears began to fall, drop by drop.


    Dexter furrowed his brows, feeling as if his heart was about to shatter. He crouched down and cradled Grape in his arms. ¡°Don¡¯t cry. I¡¯ll sleep with you.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie quickly descended the stairs, cradling the child back into his arms. ¡°This is my daughter. Who do you think you are?¡±


    Dexter lost hisposure. ¡°Why not? She¡¯s just a child. It¡¯s not safe for her to sleep alone!¡±


    ¡°Someone watches over her, so nothing will go wrong. Besides, she had been sleeping alone for over a year. Why would it be a problem now?¡±


    Ever since Grape was born, Josie had been consciously and unconsciously nurturing her independence, even encouraging her to be brave enough to sleep alone. This was because most of the time, she didn¡¯t have ample time toapany Grape and she needed thetter to adapt to her lifestyle.


    Grape listened to the quarrels among the adults, and even though she felt distressed by it, she didn¡¯t cry out. This sight was enough to break Dexter¡¯s heart.


    However, he also understood Josie¡¯s concerns, and it only made his heart ache more. ¡°You¡¯re not alone anymore. You have servants, friends, and me. Grape shouldn¡¯t be left to continue feeling insecure anymore.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t see it that way. She said sarcastically, ¡°This is my daughter, no one knows her better than I do. Dexter, you¡¯ve only yed the role of her father for a few days, yet you act as if you understand her very well.¡±


    However, she was oblivious to the tears streaming down Grape¡¯s face.


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter put his hand to his forehead. ¡°Don¡¯t be stubborn with me. Just think about it. A child over a year old who has never even cried loudly, do you think your way of parenting is reasonable?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows, following his hand to look at the Grape. She was already feeling so distraught that she couldn¡¯t find the words to speak.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s cruel for her to be keepingeverything to herself and not daring to speak to anyone at this age?¡± Dexter¡¯s words struck a nerve. After he finished speaking, he reached out and carried Grape over. ¡°She will sleep with me tonight and no one can stop it!¡±


    He was filled with anger, and the servants, together with Justin, didn¡¯t dare utter a single word.


    ¡°Why are you so stubborn?¡± Josie didn¡¯t understand.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, we can all sleep together.¡±


    Dexter turned around, ready to enter the room. However, he paused mid-step, his back facing Josie as he said, ¡°Do you remember? I¡¯ve been like this since I was a child. I know what it feels like to be Grape, so we need to provide her with a greater sense of security, isn¡¯t that right?¡±

 Chapter 1133

    Justin was halfway through munching on his cucumber when he suddenly saw Josie stride straight into Dexter¡¯s room. The door was promptly shut behind her with a resounding m.


    He tiptoed forward briskly, pressing his ear against the door to listen. Just as he leaned in, Moses grabbed his arm and pulled him away. ¡°Don¡¯t be so nosy.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Inside the room, Josie had isted themselves from everyone else. She stared at Dexter. ¡°I¡¯ll say it again, this is my daughter. No matter what reason you give, I won¡¯t agree.¡±


    In the huge bedroom, only a few wallmps were lit. Dexter remained calm andposed. ¡°I¡¯ve neverpeted with you for anything. Today, she just wanted to sleep with me, why must you object?¡±


    In truth, Josie could empathize with Grape¡¯s request. Seeing thetter cry, her heart was on the verge of breaking too. However, under the current circumstances, she couldn¡¯t let Grape feel that Dexter would always back her up.


    ¡°If I agree to this now, would you also be able to give her Russell Group and the Russell family assets in the future?¡±


    It¡¯s merely a hundred days. What would I do ifGrace grows dependent on him and he leaves again? I¡¯m doing this for Grape¡¯s own good.


    Dexter responded swiftly, ¡°She is my daughter. Why wouldn¡¯t I give them to her?¡±


    His blunt reply left Josie speechless. She raised an eyebrow, seemingly taken aback.


    Grape couldn¡¯t understand the adults¡¯ conversation. At that moment, she slid down from Dexter, carefully took Josie¡¯s hand, and whispered, ¡°Mommy, don¡¯t be angry. I won¡¯t sleep with Daddy anymore¡­¡±


    Yet, the teardrops hanging from her long eyshes entuated her pitiful look.


    Josie was filled withplex emotions. She crouched down, intending to exin the situation to Grape but was interrupted by Dexter. ¡°You stay here,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll sleep on the couch. Don¡¯t make it hard for her.¡±


    The words Josie wanted to say were once again stuck in her throat. She exchanged a nce with Dexter, then looked at Grape. In the end, she just furrowed her brows and sighed. ¡°Fine.¡±


    Dexter pulled out a nket from the wardrobe, casually arranging it on the couch. He gently reassured Grape, ¡°I¡¯ll be right here. I¡¯m not going anywhere. Once you wake up, you¡¯ll be able to see me, okay?¡±


    Grape was finally satisfied. ¡°Okay¡±


    With her mood improving, she took Josie¡¯s hand and then Dexter¡¯s hand, bringing them together. ¡°Daddy, Mommy, please stop arguing. I don¡¯t like it,¡± she pleaded.


    Josie was filled with remorse, but every time she saw Dexter, she felt insecure. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I was wrong.¡±


    ¡°Can you two make up then?¡±


    The two exchanged a nce.


    Dexter had never been one to be obstinate, leaving Josie with no choice but topromise. ¡°Alright.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Then you two should hold hands and make a pinky promise. No more fighting from now on!¡± This was something Grape had learned from other children.


    She forcefully ced their hands together. Dexter was the first to hook his pinky finger, looking at Josie as he slowly said, ¡°Pinky promise.¡±


    Josie was reluctant. Nevertheless, after a momentary struggle, she linked her finger with his. ¡°Pinky promise.¡±


    Grape cheered in an adorable voice, ¡°You make a pinky promise, you keep it for one hundredyears! You break a pinky promise, you¡¯ll be a pig!¡±


    The two of them lightly swung their linked hands in the air, and in the end, were evenpelled to press their palms against each other.


    For a hundred years. Josie smiled, but it was hard to tell if it was out of amusement or sarcasm.It¡¯s indeedughable. Where on earth did the idea of a hundred yearse from?


    Dexter gazed at her, seemingly discerning her thoughts, his eyes slightly lowered.


    That night, Josie slept on Dexter¡¯s bed, with Grape beside her. Dexter curled his towering figure up on the sofa, looking somewhatical.


    Except for the child, no one else managed to sleep. The moonlight spilled over Dexter¡¯s body. His eyes were closed, and then suddenly, he spoke.


    ¡°When did you realize you were pregnant?¡±

 Chapter 1134

    Josiey in bed, unable to sleep due to Dexter¡¯s presence.


    Upon hearing this question, she took a deep breath. ¡°On the third day of my arrival in Sumanthova, I fell ill. At first, I thought it was just a case of not being limated. It was only after going to the hospital for a check-up that I found out I was pregnant.¡±


    She still remembered the doctor¡¯s astonishment. ¡°You¡¯ve been pregnant for three months, don¡¯t you know?¡± the doctor had said.


    Josie was equally shocked. ¡°How could this be? I didn¡¯t have any signs of pregnancy at all.¡±


    In truth, there were signs, but during her three months in Clusia country, she was constantly on the go. She attributed the asional difort she felt to her irregr eating habits, not giving them much thought.


    Upon reflection, she realized that she hadn¡¯t had her period for several months. However, she simply attributed it to exhaustion.


    After some thought, she said, ¡°Could there have been a mistake in the examination? It¡¯s impossible. If it¡¯s been three months, how could this child possibly have survived¡­¡±


    She had experienced life-and-death situations. She was even kidnapped by Rachel for over two days, enduring the rain and fever, as well asbeing thrown around violently.


    The doctor was resolute. Looking at the report, he said, ¡°You are indeed pregnant. Make sure to rest well and ensure you get proper nutrition.¡±


    Josie took the report and walked out of the hospital in a daze, unable to believe that she was carrying a child in her belly.


    When she was hospitalized in Wavery, the doctors didn¡¯t make such examination, so it went undetected. She even thought to herself with a bitter smile that it was fortunate they didn¡¯t check, otherwise Dexter would definitely not have let her leave.


    Calcting the timing, she figured it to be the time on the rooftop of the Olsen Residence.


    Dexter had given her a grand gift-a new life.


    In reality, she still had a substantial amount of money in her ount. Whether it was the money given by Henry before his death, or the funds transferred by Dexter into her ount, it was more than enough to ensure she lived a life free of worries.


    However, she didn¡¯t want to.


    During her pregnancy, she worked tirelessly, eager to settle down as quickly as possible to provide a stable environment for her child.


    During that period, even L said she was working herself to death.


    Later on, there was an instance when L visited her in Sumanthova. He was utterly shocked to see that her belly had grown so big. ¡°How many months are you into your pregnancy?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Seven,¡± she said calmly.


    ¡°Have you been working all these months while pregnant?¡±


    ¡°Why, Mr. Keller? Did I not perform my job well?¡±


    ¡°Of course not. I was just surprised!¡±


    L had asked many times about the identity of the child¡¯s father, but Josie didn¡¯t want to tell him. She was determined to raise the child on her own.


    Upon hearing this, Dexter couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang in his heart, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? You didn¡¯t have to go through all this suffering.¡±


    He always regretted missing her pregnancy and childbirth, as well as the growth of Grape.


    Josie was very calm. ¡°I never wanted to see you again in this lifetime.¡±


    The hurtful words slipped from her lips, utterly disregarding the pain in Dexter¡¯s heart.


    ¡°During the pregnancy, Grape was very well- behaved, causing no major disturbances. After birth, it was the same. She didn¡¯t give me too much to worry about,¡± Josie recounted briefly, glossing over all the hardships she faced.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    However, Dexter was not buying any of it. The mere thought of a single woman raising a child alone while working in a foreign country was incredibly agonizing.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t touch a single penny of the money I gave you.¡±


    ¡°Right, I know that if I had used it, you would be able to know my location, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    She has gone to such lengths to avoid me.


    ¡°Come to think of it, I nearly lost my life during childbirth. I did consider reaching out to you at that time.¡± At that moment, Josie had only one thought in mind-to protect the child at all costs.

 Chapter 1135

    ¡°What?¡± Dexter was taken aback.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Grape was born prematurely. At that time, the heavily pregnant Josie was running an exhibition in a remote vige in Sumanthova. While she was halfway through exining her design works, she suddenly felt waves of pain in her abdomen. Then, cries of rm echoed around her. ¡°Alice! Your water broke!¡±


    What followed next was a chaotic rush to the hospital.


    The nearest hospital was a small one, and the delivery process did not go smoothly. Josie had never experienced anything like that before, so she was both scared and extremely anxious.


    After a grueling three hours ofbor, the baby had shifted position, making the delivery difficult. The doctor,cking in expertise, was even more fearful of taking responsibility upon learning that she was a renowned designer. He spent a long time discussing with her whether to proceed with a cesarean section but was hesitant to make a decision.


    Josie was in so much pain that she passed out, her mind filled with the single thought that nothing must happen to her child.


    For the sake of mother and child, they proceeded with the surgery. However, halfway through the operation, Josie began to bleed profusely. The hospital¡¯s blood bank wasinsufficient, triggering a wave of chaos and panic.


    Tears streamed down Josie¡¯s face incessantly. For the first time, she experienced what it meant to be in utter despair. She pleaded with the doctor relentlessly to save her child.


    The image of Dexter once again surfaced in her mind. If she were to die, she could at least entrust the child to him, sparing the child from suffering.


    At that time, L flew directly to Sumanthova, and it took him four hours to bring a doctor from a major hospital to the hospital Josie was in. Only then was Josie¡¯s life saved.


    At the brink of death, Josie¡¯s mind was filled with resentment toward Dexter before she passed out.


    The profuse bleeding nearly took her life. The doctor kept calling her name, ¡°Don¡¯t fall asleep! Alice! You mustn¡¯t fall asleep!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t keep her eyelids from drooping heavily.


    Just then, the cry of a baby brought her back to reality.


    ¡°It¡¯s a girl! Come on, open your eyes and take a look at your baby!¡±


    Struggling, Josie lifted her gaze, only to see a wrinkled face. At that moment, her mind was filled with relief. How wonderful. This is truly wonderful.


    The hardships of that time, even now when recounted, didn¡¯t lose its shocking value. Dexter rose from the couch, finding that only in doing so could he alleviate the quickening of his heartbeat.


    He was drenched in cold sweat, struggling to catch his breath.


    A year ago, he almost lost Josie and their child, yet he waspletely oblivious.


    The moonlight spilled onto Dexter¡¯s pallid face, casting an air of destion about him.


    Upon seeing him this way, Josie merely smiled. ¡°Giving birth was just the first hurdle. Once Grape was born, she required round-the-clock care. L hired a nurse for me, but we had anguage barrier, so she couldn¡¯t really help me much.¡±


    Reflecting on that period drained Josie.


    Dexter could imagine just how much hardship Josie, a girl who had not yet fully matured into a woman, must have endured through all of that.


    Just the mere thought of it made him wish hecould have endured it all for her.


    ¡°This was my first time being a mother, and I suffered a lot from fumbling all the time, but I have no regrets. Do you know why, Dexter?¡± She looked up.


    Under the moonlight, Dexter exchanged nces with her.


    ¡°I once lost a child, and I swore I would never lose a second one. Tell me, did that childe back to me? Is that why I have Grape?¡±


    When the past sorrows were mentioned, Dexter closed his eyes, his sadness undiminished. He said softly, ¡°She must have known your how much you have suffered, hence her return.¡±


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes. ¡°Mmm-hmm, it must be so.¡±


    That was all she wanted to say. She didn¡¯t wish to speak any further. Closing her eyes to rest, she subconsciously drifted into sleep.


    However, Dexter spent the entire night wide awake. He gazed at the moonlight outside the window, his guilt and heartache intertwining ceaselessly, gradually morphing into profound regret.

 Chapter 1136

    Grape awoke in the early morning, her eyes scanning her surroundings. Upon seeing Dexter, she broke into a shy smile. He hadn¡¯t slept a wink, but upon seeing her awake, he too, revealed a smile.


    Grape immediately got up, silently walked over to Dexter, andy in his arms, softly calling out, ¡°Daddy.¡±


    Dexter gently caressed her hair. ¡°Hmm? Still sleepy?¡±


    Grape nodded in agreement.


    ¡°I¡¯ll stay with you a little longer while you sleep.¡±


    She nodded again.


    Dexter was cradling her in his arms, initially intending to lull her to sleep. Unexpectedly, he too fell asleep without realizing it.


    When Josie awoke, she reached out and found no one beside her, startling her. As she sat up, she was greeted by the following scene-the towering Dexter curled up on the couch, cradling Grape in his arms. The morning light danced on their faces, highlighting the striking yet gentle simrity between father and daughter..


    She was somewhat taken aback, momentarily at a loss for words to describe the scene before her.


    I must be out of my mind to actually be warmed by the sight.


    Dexter¡¯s cell phone on the table suddenly rang. He immediately opened his eyes, exchanged a nce with Josie, gently ced Grape down, and then answered the call. His voice was somewhat hoarse. ¡°What is it?¡±


    The weather was bad that day with stormy conditions outside. From his angle, he could see the wilted roses in Morgan¡¯s yard.


    Scott¡¯s voice echoed from the other end of the line. ¡°I just received news that a person drowned in Southern Wavery. The victim was one of Robyn, no, Arnold¡¯s men. He worked for Arnold for many years and was pretty skilled. He was certainly no low-level henchman.¡±


    Yet, he died just like that.


    Dexter¡¯s face was calm. He unconsciously raised his hand and tapped his finger on the windowsill. ¡°Is there a river near the prison in Southern Wavery?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they were probably attempting a prison break.¡±


    Arnold had never truly valued human life.


    ¡°What a grand n.¡±


    ¡°What should be done with this man now?¡±


    Josie had already risen and finished freshening up when she overheard Dexter¡¯s response. ¡°Clean him up and send him directly to the ce where Arnold works.¡±Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Scott was taken aback. ¡°That¡¯s not a good idea. It could have a negative impact on society, and the higher-ups would probably me us.¡±


    Dexter said lightly, ¡°Didn¡¯t Mr. Ziegler tell you to obey me?¡±


    At this point, Scott had no choice but to agree.


    The call ended, and Josie walked up behind him before sitting next to Grape. She brushed away the strands of hair sticking to the corner of Grape¡¯s mouth. ¡°Is Arnold aware that the person is dead?¡±


    ¡°Before he made this decision, he knew what the oue would be. I merely allowed him to witness it with his own eyes.¡±


    Dexter said, ¡°Do you really think he intended to break into the prison?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re warning him by making an example out of that man.¡±


    Under the premise of the coboration between the two families, Josie needed to work at Keller Group, while Alice and the others would also go there.


    Although they had been apart for many years, their design philosophies were still consistent, resulting in a harmonious coboration.


    Every day, Laura would personally deliver afternoon coffee to the office, asionally chatting with Josie. Alice even said, ¡°Laura hasn¡¯t visited the studio for the past two years.


    It¡¯s thanks to your return that we get to see her.¡±


    Taking Alice¡¯s words seriously, Josie gave Alice a look. Thetter immediately said, ¡°It¡¯s not that she¡¯s irresponsible. In terms of financial matters over the past two years, she¡¯s worked on them quite conscientiously. Anyway, it¡¯s understandable because she¡¯s a big shot now.¡±


    What Josie was actually pondering about was something else.


    Since Laura hadn¡¯t visited the studio for the past two years, why would she suddenly be interested now that I¡¯m in Rivodia? Has she reallye to see me?


    Josie shook his head, realizing that her thoughts were somewhat dangerous. How could I think that way?

 Chapter 1137

    It was probably evening when a person suddenly arrived at Keller Group, seeking L directly.


    When Josie heard the news, she was in the middle of a meeting in the conference room. She looked up just in time to see Arnold passing by. His bright attire was mboyantly conspicuous. It was undoubtedly him.


    ¡°You two carry on. I¡¯ll step out for a bit,¡± Josie said anxiously as she hurried out.


    As she stepped out, the door to L¡¯s office had just been closed.


    ¡°Mr. Mills, what brings you here unexpectedly? You should have informed me in advance.¡± L smoothly extended his hand, quickly instructing his secretary to prepare coffee.


    Arnold shook hands with him, a hint of insincerity in his gesture. ¡°Let¡¯s check on the progress of the design ns.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t quite understand, nodding with a smile. L was unaware of Arnold¡¯s past. He only knew that Arnold was then a prominent figure in Rivodia, and naturally, he had to treat Arnold well.


    ¡°The design blueprint for La Oriele was overseen by Keller Group¡¯s design director, Alice. With her involved, you can rest assured.¡±


    The two sat facing each other. L was taken aback as he saw a hint of disdainful amusement on Arnold¡¯s face. ¡°It¡¯s precisely because she¡¯s here that I can¡¯t be at ease,¡± Arnold said.


    L didn¡¯t react in time. Arnold leaned in slightly and added, ¡°I heard that you, Mr. Keller, and this design director have a close personal rtionship. Is there something hidden behind this?¡±


    L was a businessman. Upon discerning the implied meaning behind the words, he promptly said, ¡°My rtionship with Alice is purely based on admiration, and our ability to converse well privately, which is why we are close. Her sess today is entirely due to her own abilities. There¡¯s nothing fishy going on.¡±


    Arnold, however, was relentless. ¡°During her two years in Sumanthova, it seemed you were always flying there.¡±


    Hearing that, L was reminded of Dexter¡¯s instructions and could only shake his head. ¡°It¡¯s all in the past.¡±


    Arnold only stayed for a few minutes. When he walked out of the office, he happened to see Josie waiting at the door. He then raised an eyebrow and asked, ¡°Alice, you seem free. Are you not busy?¡±Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    L looked surprised. ¡°Alice, what are youdoing here¡­¡±


    Josie red fiercely at Arnold, then took his hand and started walking away. Thetter didn¡¯t dodge, allowing her to lead him. L, witnessing this scene, stood frozen in his tracks. They seem to have a close rtionship with each other.


    Once they reached a secluded corner, Josie got straight to the point by asking, ¡°What brought you here?¡±


    Arnold was half-leaning against the window, flexing his wrist. ¡°Just checking on your work progress. Are there any issues?¡±


    ¡°You never even set foot in my office.¡±


    Josie knew exactly what he was thinking, and she felt helpless. ¡°I can¡¯t obtain any more information at the moment. If I do it too frequently, Dexter will start suspecting me!¡±


    ¡°Josie, one of my men has died in Southern Wavery,¡± Arnold stated bluntly.


    Josie clenched her fists. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you asking me how he died? You don¡¯t seem surprised at all.¡± Arnold watched her reaction leisurely. ¡°You knew all along?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, striving to keep her cool. ¡°Don¡¯t go mad at me here. I¡¯m simply notinterested in you as a person.¡±


    Arnold nodded, a sudden realization dawning on him. ¡°You think of a solution. I need to see my father.¡±


    Josie was incredulous. ¡°I implore you to understand that I¡¯m not one of the higher-ups. I¡¯m just a worker. Where would I get any authority?¡±


    Arnold confidently pulled out a transparent stic bag filled with tablets from his pocket and ced it in front of her.


    ¡°You will have it.¡±


    Josie was trembling slightly. Those are Pop¡¯s medications¡­


    Arnold moved closer to her, cing the pills in her hand. ¡°A reward fromst time.¡±


    ¡°Once the matter is settled today, I gave you more medicine.¡±

 Chapter 1138

    Josie trembled all over, struggling to hold back her urge to curse. Yet, she had no choice but to ept the medicine.


    Arnold leaned in close to her ear. ¡°My dear Ms. Warren, you always have a way, don¡¯t you?¡±


    After he finished speaking, he bypassed Josie and left directly, leaving her continuously shivering.


    Inside the mansion, Paul was seated on the sofa, watching Grape frolic about. The two seemed to have be quite familiar with each other. However, every day when Paul woke up, he would always ask about the identity of the child.


    Josie poured some water and walked up to Paul. ¡°Dad, it¡¯s time to take your medicine.¡±


    Paul, in a daze, swallowed the pill. He experienced a brief difort but quickly began to feel better.


    Justin then carried him away.


    Dexter handed a piece of the building block to Grape before saying, ¡°We can¡¯t rush this matter. Otherwise, Arnold won¡¯t easily believe it.¡±


    Josie slumped down, asking despondently, ¡°What should we do, then?¡±


    ¡°In a couple of days, Charles will attend ameeting in Rivodia. He will have half a day to himself. It has been two years, and he¡¯s missed you dearly,¡± Dexter uttered nonchntly, toying with the building blocks in his hands, his voice pleasing to the ear.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Charles was a man Henry had introduced to her from before.


    ¡°Is he still the mayor of Wavery?¡±


    ¡°After another year, we¡¯ll know whether he¡¯s moving up or falling behind.¡± Dexter had been looking down for so long that his neck was starting to ache. He set the building blocks aside with a tter. ¡°Now, it¡¯s up to you.¡±


    From that angle, the man was somewhat backlit. Josie saidposedly, ¡°You¡¯ve gathered so much information these past few years. Hasn¡¯t anyone raised objections?¡±


    After all, he was a businessman, and crossing the line too often would inevitably lead to sanctions.


    Dexter seemed utterly unconcerned, even managing a rxed smile. ¡°So you see, I don¡¯t really manage Russell Group anymore. Being a wealthy idler suits me just fine.¡±


    Though it sounded easy, Josie felt the inherent risks were far from simple.


    Seeing her brows furrowed in concern, Dexteradded nonchntly, ¡°What I have in my control is enough to bnce several forces. If therees a day of bacsh, I have enough resources to remedy the situation.¡±


    That was why he was so confident.


    Josie trusted his decisions. Although he often came across as opinionated, she had to admit that his choices always yed a pivotal role. It was only his excessively ruthless decisions that ended up hurting her heart.


    Dexter, who seemed confident, always had a touch of sorrow in his eyes, as if he was on the verge of being mentally and physically exhausted.


    It¡¯s tiring being him, isn¡¯t it? Regaining her senses, Josie realized what she had been thinking and wished she could p herself. What am I doing, empathizing with Dexter? This is truly madness.


    Just then, Dexter suddenly turned around and looked at her. ¡°From the information you have now, are you withholding anything from me?¡±


    ¡°Arnold? No.¡± That was the truth.


    He nodded in response. ¡°Then you can rest assured.¡±


    Upon arriving in Rivodia, Charles spent an entire day in meetings. It was only in the evening thathe found some free time. The ce he chose for dinner was quite modest.


    Josie stood at the restaurant entrance while Arnold was seated in a car not far away, sending her a message with his head bowed. The message read: Old Mr. Russell indeed treated you well, even managing to connect you with Charles.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to pay attention to his passive aggressive behavior.


    An MPV was approaching from a distance, its license te bearing the letter J, followed by eight eights, exuding a strong presence.


    A few people descended from within, and finally, there was Charles. He was dressed in a suit. Upon seeing Josie, he quickly approached, extremely delighted. ¡°Is it really you, Jo? It¡¯s been such a long time!¡±


    With a face full of remorse, Josie shook his hand. ¡°It¡¯s been two years since west met in Wavery. I apologize, Mr. Zimmerman.¡±

 Chapter 1139

    The ce where they dined was very secluded. Upon opening the window, one could see the river flowing outside, which appeared particrly serene under the moonlight.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you return to Wavery, but instead settled in Rivodia?¡± Charles personally poured Josie a drink.


    Josie answered honestly, ¡°I work here. Also, Wavery brings about too many headaches. You understand, don¡¯t you, Mr. Zimmerman?¡±


    Naturally, Charles understood. From his position, he could empathize more with her difficulties. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The Olsen family is safe.¡±


    Josie¡¯s drinking motion paused for a moment when she heard that. She then uttered abruptly. ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Do you know?¡± Charles was quite surprised.


    ¡°Over the past couple of years abroad, I¡¯ve heard bits and pieces. Plus, my younger sister is part of the Olsen family, so we¡¯ve kept in touch. Hence¡­¡±


    Josie¡¯s lying was evidently not very natural, but in this context, it seemed somewhat believable.


    Listening through his Bluetooth earpiece, Arnold sneered.


    ¡°Sister? Are you talking about Summer?¡± Charles asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After some serious thought, Charles said, ¡°I haven¡¯t heard much about Summer. How did you manage to get in touch with her? I remember you two weren¡¯t on good terms.¡±


    The waiter brought the dishes out one after another. After the waiter left, Josie said, ¡°She knew she hadn¡¯t done well, always keeping a low profile. Perhaps her reaching out to me was her way of finding peace.¡±


    She spoke those words insincerely. Both of them wished for nothing more than for the other to drop dead. There was simply no chance for reconciliation.


    Two days ago, Josie had paid a visit to Arnold, exining her conditions to him. She needed to meet Summer first before she could approach Charles. Upon hearing this, Arnoldughed, ¡°You want me to find my ex-wife?¡±


    ¡°What ex-wife are you talking about? It seems like you guys never got divorced.¡±


    Josie scoffed. ¡°I just want to put on a show!¡±


    Arnold responded directly, ¡°I can¡¯t do it. If the Olsen family finds out it¡¯s me, they¡¯ll kill me even faster than you would.¡±


    ¡°Do you really want to see your father or not?¡± she asked. This person is simply not sincere at heart.


    Arnold sat on the sofa, crossed his legs casually, and said to her, ¡°You can find someone else.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Zach¡¯s wife, Laura. Isn¡¯t she in Rivodia recently?¡±


    Therefore, Josie finally had the opportunity that day.


    Upon hearing that, Charles shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re too kind-hearted. That child¡¯s heart isn¡¯t as pure as yours. All the ns you¡¯ve made for her, they¡¯re not worth it.¡±


    Josie stirred the vegetables in her bowl. ¡°How did you know that I was nning for her?¡±


    Charles became interested, raising an eyebrow as he leaned back. ¡°Weren¡¯t you?¡±


    The two exchanged a nce, and Josie caved in. She put on a forced smile of feigned sympathy. ¡°I heard it from my sister-inw. She¡¯s not doing well now. Her parents have abandoned her, and she¡¯s gone from being a pampered youngdy to a mere worker. You can only imagine the drastic change.¡±


    She raised her hand in a gesture, and Laura entered from outside, showing utmost respect. ¡°Hi, Mr. Zimmerman.¡±


    Charles found it interesting. He nced at Josie before looking at Laura. ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the sister-inw I mentioned before, Laura.¡±


    Laura understood and quickly exined, ¡°Mr. Zimmerman, we met at the investment promotion conference in Waveryst time.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I understand now. I have praised you for your aplishments at such a young age.¡±


    With a modest expression, Laura denied it and said, ¡°I was the one who told Jo about Summer. Well, because both parents¡­ Mr. Zimmerman, you understand, right?¡±


    Charles began to scrutinize with a discerning gaze. From his position, he had witnessed far too much infighting.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.

 Chapter 1140

    ¡°Jo.¡± Charles put down his fork and looked at Josie. ¡°It seems that your invitation today was for more than just a meal.¡±


    Josie apologized, ¡°I know it¡¯s against the rules, but I had toe to you for help with a family matter. I realize I may have overstepped my bounds.¡±


    Charles stopped eating. He cleaned his hands with a napkin.


    Laura exined at the right moment, ¡°Summer is currently not epted by the Olsen family, and her life is extremely difficult. With Arnold missing, she naturally has no ce in the Carter family. Logically speaking, if Arnold is gone, she should be the first inheritor. But now, she can¡¯t get anything.¡±


    Josie said, ¡°I want to help her.¡±


    Finally, Charles understood. He looked out at the river view and said, ¡°Jo, you¡¯re helping the person who once tried to kill you.¡±


    ¡°All of that is in the past.¡±


    ¡°All right, speak up. If there¡¯s anything I can help with, let me know. But remember, I won¡¯t be involved in anything that breaks the rules,¡± Charles said.


    ¡°Actually, it¡¯s not thatplicated. I want Summer to meet Edward, who is Arnold¡¯sfather, currently imprisoned. As long as she could meet him, Summer¡¯s standing in the Carter family should improve.¡±


    As she spoke those words, Josie was filled with fear and trepidation.


    Charles¡¯s face changed instantly when he heard Edward¡¯s name. He then immediately refused by saying, ¡°That¡¯s impossible. Do you even know what you¡¯re saying?¡±


    ¡°Why? It¡¯s just a prison visit, a right that every family member possesses.¡±


    ¡°Edward is serving a life sentence. He was a significant figure in Wavery. Jo, does Dexter know about the decision you made today?¡±


    Charles harbored deep concerns.


    Josie¡¯s face quickly darkened when she heard those words. ¡°He is my ex-husband. It has nothing to do with him.¡±


    ¡°As for Summer, Arnold has nothing to do with her anymore!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. He had merely disappeared. They hadn¡¯t divorced.¡±


    Josie was resolute. Dexter had told her that the news of Arnold¡¯s reappearance as Robyn had not yet reached Charles. Therefore, she could say, ¡°Mr. Zimmerman, I know you¡¯ve been upsetthese past two years because you couldn¡¯t find Arnold. But what if we use Summer as bait? He might just show up, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Laura pursed her lips, listening to Josie¡¯s gentle persuasion.


    ¡°It¡¯s killing two birds with one stone. It¡¯s worth giving a shot.¡±


    Josie managed a smile at Charles. ¡°Before Grandpa passed away, he told me that I could turn to you, Mr. Zimmerman, for anything.¡±


    Charles clicked his tongue when he heard that.


    Henry had shown him kindness in his early years, and when Josie revealed his identity, he had no chance to refute it.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    In the end, Charles agreed, making apromise. ¡°I¡¯ll have someone handle it, but everything must be done ording to the rules.¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a smile. ¡°You¡¯re the best, Mr. Zimmerman.¡±


    A chuckle resonated through the Bluetooth earpiece nestled in Josie¡¯s ear. Arnold said leisurely, ¡°You¡¯re quite adept at acting coy. It seems you¡¯ll be able to handle many things in the future.¡±


    Josie swallowed hard, wishing she could justthrow her earpiece away.


    This meal had been tainted by business dealings, leaving Charles rather displeased. When it was time to leave, he didn¡¯t let Josie apany him, choosing instead to depart with his secretary.


    Watching the vehicle disappear into the distance, Laura patted her chest. ¡°What on earth are you nning to do? You even involved Charles. Jo, you scared me to death.¡±


    Josie apologized by saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you act with me, but so far, I haven¡¯t been able to find anyone more suitable.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? What are you trying to do?¡±


    In reality, for the past two years, Laura hadn¡¯t heard any news from Summer. Everything she just said was made up.


    Josie gazed at the car not far away and replied, ¡°I¡¯ll tell youter.¡±

 Chapter 1141

    As she spoke, she briskly walked over to the car, slid into the seat, and mmed the door shut.


    ¡°Are you f*cking satisfied now?¡± Josie ripped off her earpiece and threw it on the ground.


    Arnold was still smiling. ¡°I wasn¡¯t joking just now. Charles is no small fry, Josie. You are of great importance.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. For your mess, I¡¯ve exhausted the connection that could have ensured a lifetime of wealth and prosperity for me!¡±


    Josie was genuinely furious. If it weren¡¯t for Arnold¡¯s threats, she could have kept Charles as a resource for any future emergencies, instead of acting so rashly.


    ¡°Can he protect you?¡± Arnold sneered disdainfully, ¡°He¡¯s just a mayor for now, but in a couple of years, he won¡¯t be. The one who can truly protect you is¡­¡±


    He drew out his words, finally giving up. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    Just then, Josie¡¯s phone chimed. It was amessage from Charles confirming thateverything had been arranged. They were to meet the day after tomorrow for two hours.


    She handed it over to Arnold, her thoughts drifting until she broke into augh. ¡°I¡¯m quitecurious. How are you going to pull off dressing as a woman?¡±


    Arnold nced around, a n forming in his mind. ¡°Want to know?¡±


    She remained silent.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    ¡°Stop hanging around with Dexter. Come with me instead. You¡¯ll understand in due time.¡±


    When Josie stepped out of Arnold¡¯s car, Laura was still standing in the same spot, her skirt billowing in the wind. She was seemingly lost in thought.


    Josie waved at her and quickly drove off in her own car.


    Late that night, Dexter was still awake. He sat on the carpet, leisurely sorting through Grape¡¯s toys, thoroughly enjoying himself.


    Upon hearing the sound, he didn¡¯t lift his head. ¡°Is it done?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Everything went smoothly with Laura and Charles. The meeting is set for the day after tomorrow. We¡¯ll have two hours.¡± Josie quickly stepped forward, not understanding. ¡°Will Arnold personally attend?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Why? He was the one who said he wanted tomeet Edward. There must be something important. He surely wouldn¡¯t feel at ease letting someone else handle it on his behalf.¡±


    Taking advantage of the situation, Josie sat down on the carpet, her face full of curiosity.


    Dexter doted on her as he looked at her. ¡°Arnold¡¯s request has two advantages for him.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°First of all¡­¡± He set aside a block puzzle and continued, ¡°It will test whether Edward is truly alive, whether he is really in prison, and theyout within. Secondly, he¡¯ll be able to gauge your loyalty based on this action.¡±


    Josie was taken aback.


    Dexter stood in the dim light and shadow, enunciating, ¡°Only after you¡¯ve sessfully handled matters for him will he allow you ess to more rted benefits. This serves as both a stepping stone and a pledge of allegiance.¡±


    ¡°So, what do we gain from this? We can¡¯t bring him down, yet he reaps many benefits. Are we to be forever at his mercy?¡± Josie didn¡¯t understand.


    Dexter neatly put away all the blocks. ¡°Now we can have a good night¡¯s sleep.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± She thought she had misheard.


    Dexter had risen to his feet, extending his hand toward her. ¡°Isn¡¯t it toote? Aren¡¯t you tired?¡±


    He didn¡¯t want to say more, and it wasn¡¯t appropriate for Josie to ask further. Looking at the time, it was indeed veryte. Reluctantly, she took his hand for support to stand up. However, with a stumble, she fell directly into his arms.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±


    At the earliest opportunity, Dexter steadied her body. Josie reacted swiftly as well, shaking off Dexter, her ears turning a shade of red. ¡°Um¡­ I¡¯m going to sleep now!¡± she announced.


    With hurried steps, she tried her best to ignore the faint scent of tobo she had just caught.


    She swiftly entered the room, clutching her wildly beating heart. Panic mingled with a sense of defeat. I¡¯m going mad, absolutely mad!

 Chapter 1142

    The following day, Josie woke up not feeling as sharp as usual because she didn¡¯t have a good night¡¯s sleep the night before.


    At that time, Justin and the others had already finished their breakfast. His leg hadn¡¯t fully healed, so it was propped up on one side. Grape was lying next to him, drawing on his cast with colored pencils.


    Upon seeing Josie, Justin remarked, ¡°Oh? You two didn¡¯t share a bed against night, did you?¡±


    Josie¡¯s face turned red, her ears ming. She grabbed a pillow and threw it at him. ¡°Stop it. I can sleep by myself!¡±


    Suddenly, Justin was hit by a sudden realization. ¡°Then why have you only woken up now? Were you that tired?¡±


    Josie was cutting her sunny-side-up egg with a knife and fork, and her grip tightened when she heard those words. Yet, a smile remained on her face. ¡°Say that again, and we¡¯ll see if this knife ends up in your face.¡±N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Justin rolled his eyes, but ultimately, he didn¡¯t say anything more.


    The mornings were always serene. Justin was frolicking with Grape, while Paul sat quietly on the balcony, basking in the sun. Sometimes, he would ramble on, and Dexter would approachhim to converse, indulging in imaginative conversations together.


    Josie watched this scene, sometimes feeling dazed. These days, she surprisingly felt the breath of life, more vivid and warm than in Sumanthova.


    Grape had whispered to her more than once, ¡°Mommy, I love it here. I love Daddy and Uncle Justin. I also like a lot of the people here.¡±


    Josie was somewhat regretful. If she had known earlier, she wouldn¡¯t have agreed to Dexter¡¯s so-called hundred-day pact. After a hundred days, what am I supposed to do?


    Seeing that she hadn¡¯t eaten for quite some time, the housekeeper couldn¡¯t help but step forward to remind her, ¡°Mrs. Russell, this breakfast was personally prepared by Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°What did you call me?¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Russell? Is everything okay?¡± The housekeeper was also puzzled. ¡°Mr. Russell said, as long as you are here, this is how you should be addressed.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s gone mad.¡± Josie continued to exert force under her knife. A momentter, she came to her senses and asked, ¡°Did he make this?¡±


    Fried eggs and sandwiches were standard farefor breakfast.


    The housekeeper looked bewildered once again. ¡°Didn¡¯t you know? All the food you¡¯ve been eating these past few days was personally prepared by Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie knew that Dexter could cook, but she hadn¡¯t expected him to be so meticulous, and he had never mentioned it to her.


    ¡°You¡¯re lying to me, aren¡¯t you?¡± Josie didn¡¯t believe the housekeeper.


    ¡°It¡¯s true¡­¡±


    Josie looked up, her gazending on the man seated shoulder to shoulder with Paul. The sunlight bathed him, casting an aura of tranquility and coolposure.


    For a moment, she was at a loss for words. After a brief pause, she pushed away her te. ¡°I can¡¯t eat anymore. Throw it away.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡±


    Josie had already walked up to Dexter¡¯s side when she heard Paul muttering, ¡°Jo is a good girl. You must treat her well.¡±


    Josie thought Paul was talking nonsense again.


    Dexter, however, was very patient. ¡°All right, Mr. Warren. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Paul still remembered many things. ¡°No, I can¡¯t be at ease. I don¡¯t trust you. Let¡¯s sign a divorce agreement. I want to provide some security for Jo!¡±


    Dexter gripped Paul¡¯s hand. ¡°Okay. Okay.¡±


    For a moment, Josie fell silent. It was as if she could see the scene where Dexter had prepared the divorce agreement in advance. Was it actually Pop who had requested that?


    Sensing someone¡¯s presence, Dexter turned around. As their eyes met, both were somewhat lost for words.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed tightly. ¡°You-¡±


    Just as she was starting to speak, Dexter¡¯s phone rang. It was ced a bit far, but closer to Josie. She turned around, picked it up, and handed it over to him.


    Josie saw the caller ID, and it was a call from Larry.


    Dexter switched to speakerphone. Larry¡¯s voice rang out, and it was filled with excitement. ¡°Mr. Russell, you would never guess who Arnold has sought out.¡±

 Chapter 1143

    Larry had been consistently keeping tabs to ascertain who Arnold would arrange to meet Edward the next day.


    Josie was also very curious.


    Dexter blurted out, ¡°Summer?¡±


    Dexter guessed it right.


    After a few seconds of silence from Larry, there was a hint ofint in his voice. ¡°How did you know? Who leaked the information?¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected his guess to be correct, leaving her utterly astonished.


    Dexter wore a half-smile, watching her as he exined, ¡°If you were to ask for Charles¡¯ position, even if it were Summer, anyone would have suspicions. Therefore, Arnold wouldn¡¯t rashly rece anyone, let alone go personally.¡±


    Larry was on the other end, momentarily confused. ¡°Are you talking to me?¡±


    Josie replied, ¡°But even Laura doesn¡¯t know where Summer is. How would Arnold know?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that they¡¯re in the same boat,¡± Dexter said indifferently. ¡°Perhaps these past two years, Summer has been by Arnold¡¯s side.¡±


    Josie became speechless. So? Is it a setup?


    Josie couldn¡¯t begin to fathom just how cunning Arnold was.


    ¡°Arnold probably wouldn¡¯t have allowed her to go if he didn¡¯t trust herpletely.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t dare to imagine even more. Dexter was considered to be even more cunning than Arnold.


    Dexter then continued his conversation with Larry by asking, ¡°Where is Summer now?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s settled in one of Arnold¡¯s residences, appearing to be in good spirits.¡±


    ¡°Just keep watching.¡±


    After Dexter hung up the phone, Josie was still confused. She simply sat down and mused, ¡°Summer is not the biological daughter of the Olsen family. She was very sensitive about this status, but by that time, I had already left Wavery. Why didn¡¯t she fight for it anymore? Why did she let Laura and her family dominate?¡±


    Zach was indeed capable of enduring humiliation for the sake of a higher objective.


    Dexter patiently exined, ¡°She has no reputation. She won¡¯t gain more by staying in the Olsen family. Your father¡­¡±


    He paused before continuing, ¡°Mark can¡¯tendure any ws.¡±


    ¡°I believe that if given a choice, Summer would not have sided with Arnold.¡±


    ¡°Could there be a possibility that she had some leverage over him?¡±


    Josie made a bold assumption, and quickly, something else came to her mind. ¡°That¡¯s right. Rachel was with you initially. Where did she go afterward?¡±


    When Rachel was mentioned, Dexter¡¯s expression was unreadable. ¡°She¡¯s gone.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Someone had let her out during the shift change, and her whereabouts remain unknown to this day.¡±


    At this point, Dexter¡¯s voice had a hint of regret. ¡°But what I can confirm is that she indeed leaked the initial exposure of Edward¡¯s location.¡±


    Josie had an unsettling premonition. ¡°So, it¡¯s quite possible that Rachel is still working for Arnold?¡±


    Dexter gave a slight nod. ¡°About this matter, I apologize. It was me who didn¡¯t-¡±


    Josie raised her hand before he could finish hissentence. ¡°My punishment for her has already ended. I don¡¯t want to know what happened afterward, and you can¡¯t me yourself, either.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    She still drew a clear distinction between personal and official affairs.


    The two were engaged in conversation, positioned just opposite Morgan¡¯s residence. They happened to catch sight of him, bare- chested, as he moved from his room to the balcony, stretchingnguidly.


    Their six eyes met, and then everything came to an abrupt halt.


    ¡°Are you all out of your minds?¡± Morgan eximed as he woke up to the sight of them. ¡°It¡¯s so early, and you¡¯re already sitting here, basking in the sun?¡± He couldn¡¯t help but curse out loud.


    Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Dude, it¡¯s already ten o¡¯clock. The sun is high up in the sky.¡±


    Morgan¡¯s mouth twitched, and he quickly grabbed a jacket to put on. ¡°You guys weren¡¯t just sitting here waiting for me to wake up, were you?¡±


    He¡¯s crazy¡­ Dexter was the first to stand, returning to the room, while Josie, supporting Paul, also slowly made her way back.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Morgan cried out in helpless fury.

 Chapter 1144

    At six in the evening, within a certain country club in Rivodia, the ce was already teeming with a steady stream of customers.


    ¡°Ms. Strauss has arrived!¡±


    ¡°Good evening, Ms. Strauss!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Strauss¡­¡±


    A mboyant woman in a long red dress, heavily made up, briskly walked down the corridor. In response to the greetings of the attendants, she merely nodded. She was smiling as she gave out instructions.


    ¡°We have important clients today, so we must ensure there¡¯s enough wine. If it¡¯s not sufficient, make arrangements to get some from the headquarters in advance. Also, regarding the women, we need only the best,¡± she said.


    She was full of vitality, exuding an overwhelming aura.


    ¡°All right! We¡¯ll do as you say, Ms. Strauss!¡±


    The woman swayed her hips as she walked into a spacious private room. Her face was exuding an air ofnguidness when she said, ¡°What time is it? You¡¯ve called me here so early. I¡¯ve just woken up.¡±


    She flung herself onto the couch, and the person opposite her sat down with their backtoward her. It was a woman, her voicenguid. ¡°I really envy you, still having the mood to sleep. The whole Rivodia is about to turn upside down, yet here you are, at leisure.¡±


    ¡°If the sky were to fall, there would be tall ones to hold it up. What use would I, a woman, be? It¡¯s better to mind my own small territory.¡±


    ¡°Rachel, you truly are at ease,¡± the woman sneered. ¡°What if I told you that you knew the person turning Rivodia upside down?¡±


    Rachel lifted her eyelids, finally showing some reaction. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡±


    Rachel instantly opened her eyes, her entire being bing incredibly lucid.


    ¡°Josie has returned,¡± the person said, slowly turning around. ¡°It¡¯s been almost half a month. Hasn¡¯t anyone informed you?¡±


    Rachel sat up straight, her expression serious. ¡°No one has said anything. There¡¯s not a single piece of news.¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Oh, it seems that Arnold has still kept you in the dark.¡±


    In an instant, Rachel thought about many things. She paced anxiously around the room. ¡°Why has she returned? Instead of going toWavery, whye to Rivodia? I thought she would nevere back in her lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Of course, she would return. This is her home,¡± the other person said. ¡°However, now that she¡¯s here, you¡¯ll be the one without a home. I¡¯m curious to see how long you can hold on to this shabby country club.¡±


    ¡°No way! Arnold promised me that as long as he¡¯s around, I can keep going. I¡¯ve put so much heart and effort into this. It can¡¯t all be for nothing¡­ Josie¡­ Josie is¡­¡± Rachel fell into an unprecedented panic.


    ¡°Rachel, what are you panicking about?¡±


    The woman was puzzled. ¡°The sky hasn¡¯t fallen yet, has it? Have you lived infort for so long that you¡¯ve forgotten everything? Have you forgotten how she humiliated you two years ago? You mustn¡¯t be afraid. You have to stand up to her!¡±


    A single remark brought Rachel back to reality, pulling her back to when she was treated like a target of scorn. Her eyes turned red when she said, ¡°Of course, I haven¡¯t forgotten. Yes. Her return is timely. I will avenge the grudge from the past. I certainly will.¡±


    Rachel bit her finger, forcing herself to calm down. Then, sitting in front of that person, she demanded, ¡°Tell me. Who did shee back with? What does she want to do?¡±


    ¡°A child.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°She brought a child home, Dexter¡¯s daughter, who is two years old. At present, she has already found Paul.¡±


    Rachel scoffed. ¡°A child¡­ That¡¯s indeed a real bargaining chip. That¡¯s capable of controlling Dexter for the rest of his life. What a clever move!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you all this because I can¡¯t stand to see Arnold keeping you in the dark. However, I caution you, don¡¯t act rashly. After all, Arnold hasn¡¯t given the order yet. If you seek her out and ruin his ns, he won¡¯t let you off lightly.¡±


    When Arnold was mentioned, Rachel closed her eyes, as if her lifeline was being manipted. ¡°I understand what you mean. I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±

 Chapter 1145

    On the day of the prison visit, Scott ryed a message, ¡°It¡¯s summer. She didn¡¯t bring anything.¡±


    During the two-hour visitation period, they chatted about everyday matters, discussing the changes that had urred over the past two years, as well as Arnold¡¯s still unknown whereabouts. Edward had aged significantly and remained silent upon hearing this news.


    Summer had Edward sign a document for her that would at least secure her standing in the Olsen family.


    As she was leaving, she said, ¡°Please take good care of yourself. I owe today¡¯s opportunity to meet you entirely to my sister. If you have time, please pray for her often.¡±


    Edward was a religious man.


    Upon hearing this, Edward asked, ¡°Which sister are you referring to?¡±


    ¡°Josie. She¡¯s my sister.¡±


    After that, Scott had conveyed the general idea, leaving Josie somewhat perplexed. ¡°Since Summer has met Edward, Arnold will start to believe me. But why did she deliberately leak my information?¡±


    In prison, Edward was unable to do anything.Dexter seemed lost in thought. He then asked Scott, ¡°Has Charles returned to Wavery?¡±


    ¡°The ne that departed two hours ago should have arrived by now.¡±


    Dexter nced at the time. ¡°When did Summer leave?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s probably been about two hours. Gathering information takes time,¡± Scott exined.


    ¡°Where did Summer go after she left?¡±


    ¡°Of course, she returned to Arnold. We couldn¡¯t find out who she had been in contact with. They were on high alert inside.¡±


    Dexter understood clearly, and he furrowed his brows slightly. ¡°Still toote.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand. ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    There was no need for Dexter to exin. In less than half an hour, the news had already spread throughout Rivodia.


    No sooner had Charles returned to his office than representatives from the prosecution division arrived, initiating a rted investigation against him.


    In his position, a single move could set off a chain reaction.


    The private calls to Dexter¡¯s phone never ceased.


    Immediately, Josie slumped onto the couch. ¡°Why has this happened? On the surface, everything was clearly legal andpliant. It shouldn¡¯t have been made into an issue.¡±


    Dexter did not answer the phone. He had set it to silent mode. ¡°It¡¯s not about this matter. Those who managed to sit in this position most often did so by pulling off vicious moves. If anyone with a discerning eye were to investigate, they would likely uncover numerous issues.¡±


    ¡°But as for Charles¡­¡±


    ¡°When Summer saw Edward and mentioned your name, he naturally turned his thoughts toward you. He would then think of me and the Russell family.¡± Dexter¡¯s gaze was focused. ¡°Edward, who no one has been able to visit in prison for two years, suddenly has this privilege. Naturally, they can guess who your backer is.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Josie could understand what was going on. ¡°I am the bait. So Arnold didn¡¯t really want to meet Edward, but was aiming for Charles?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was intriguing, ¡°Things are changing in Wavery. If he could rece Charles with an aplice of his, no one would be able to keep him in check anymore.¡±


    ¡°You had guessed it all along? Then why did you let me go? You made me harm Mr. Zimmerman.¡± Upon hearing this, Josie finally understood. She abruptly stood up. No wonder Dexter didn¡¯t show up that day. He knew everything. He let me y the viin.


    ¡°Do you want to save him?¡± Dexter looked up, his eyes indifferent.


    ¡°What?¡±


    It was ten o¡¯clock at night.


    It was at the height of the bustling nightlife when Josie received the news that Arnold was spending the night there.


    ¡°Miss, who are you looking for?¡± the attendant asked with utmost respect.


    ¡°Arn¡­¡± Josie paused. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Robyn.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mills? Please wait a moment.¡±


    A momentter, the attendant led her into a private room. It was filled with men, but there was one woman who was particrly eye- catching.

 Chapter 1146

    Arnold was seated in the main seat, with a strikingly gorgeous yet decadent woman nestled by his side. The woman was none other than Summer.


    She was pouring the wine from the bottle directly into her mouth.


    Josie walked in, silencing the ring music with a press of a button. Instantly, the private room fell into a hush, and all eyes were on her.


    Arnold finally looked up, scrutinizing Josie¡¯s overly in attire. ¡°What are you doing? The medicine I gave you can still be taken for a few more days.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not looking for you.¡±


    She then pointed at Summer and said, ¡°I¡¯m here for her.¡±


    Summer finally seemed to snap back to reality, her face full of disdain. Seeing Josie didn¡¯t surprise her at all. ¡°You¡­ Oh! Josie¡­ Wait, no. It¡¯s Liana. Do you need something from me?¡±


    Josie grabbed Summer¡¯s wrist and pulled her straight out, ignoring the mor in the private room.


    Summer felt weak and limp, leaning against the wall. ¡°What do you want? If you have something to say, just say it. I¡¯m annoyed just by seeing you.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I wanted to see you?¡± Josie got straight to the point. ¡°What did you say to Edward when you met him today?¡±


    So she came to me to ask about that? Summer scoffed and said, ¡°You¡¯re using my reputation to get things done. Of course, I should satisfy you. Want to know? Go find out yourself.¡±


    ¡°I did want to investigate, but sadly, I¡¯m not as fortunate as you. I¡¯ve aplished nothing, yet you seem to be blessed by the heavens, thriving wherever you go.¡± Josie moved closer to Summer. ¡°But I have a question. How long can one truly prosper by using their charms to manipte others?¡±


    Those words did not infuriate Summer. She lit a cigarette and still managed to smile. ¡°I also wish to be like you, to have a reputable name, to have a man who loves me. But ask yourself, are you truly living a good life now?¡±


    Seeing Josie¡¯s face stiffen, Summer pushed her away. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you toe back.¡±


    ¡°I never expected you to still be with Arnold.¡±


    ¡°A woman who should have been widowed was seen with a man bearing a striking resemnce to her deceased husband. If the media were to capture this, they would certainly make a big story out of it.¡±


    Summer was not afraid in the slightest. ¡°Josie,you should know where you are. This is Rivodia, not Wavery.¡±


    Josie was so angry that her whole body was trembling. Summer took a puff of her cigarette and asked, ¡°Are you feeling unwell? I can have someone take you home.¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°It seems Arnold has given you quite a bit of authority, allowing you to speak like you own the ce.¡±


    Summer casually yed with her hair.


    Just then, a subordinate emerged from the private room, respectfully holding Summer¡¯s phone. ¡°Ms. Olsen, you have a call.¡±


    Summer cast a nce and disdainfully looked at Josie once more before she turned on her heel and walked away.Watching the figure recede, it was filled with an air of world-weariness.


    Before long, Arnold emerged from inside. Seeing Josie¡¯s angry expression, he couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Care toe in for a drink?¡±


    Josie nced at him, and swiftly, she raised her hand to deliver a p.


    Caught off guard, he was left stunned.


    The subordinates around were all bewildered as well.


    They had never seen someone that bold.


    ¡°The task you asked me to do, I¡¯ve done it. Mr. Zimmerman has helped me a lot, and indirectly, he has also helped you quite a bit. How dare you abandon someone after getting the help needed?¡±


    As she spoke those words, she gritted her teeth in determination, managing to squeeze out a few tears.


    It seemed as if Arnold had finallye to his senses. He wiped the corner of his mouth and clicked his tongue. ¡°Still as fierce as ever.¡±


    Josie was breathing heavily.


    ¡°So you found out already? News travels fast with Dexter,¡± Arnold said.


    As it turned out, it was Arnold¡¯s doing. ¡°Arnold! How can I help you if you keep breaking promises like this?¡± Josie asked.


    Arnold sighed and reached out to lift her chin. ¡°How can you call it helping me? At most, it¡¯s a transaction. Go back and ask Dexter. In every transaction, someone loses, and someone profits.¡±


    As Arnold drew closer, he could smell the strong scent of alcohol on her.

 Chapter 1147

    Suddenly, Josie crouched down. She squatted in the corner, crying uncontrobly. ¡°If anything happens to Mr. Zimmerman, I won¡¯t let you off the hook!¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Arnold¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He hadn¡¯t expected her to make such a move. He nudged her with his leg and urged, ¡°Get up. There are many people here.¡±


    People came and went, all finding it amusing as they fixed their gaze on her.


    Josie continued to cry. ¡°I¡¯ll only stop if you promise me you won¡¯t let anything happen to him!¡±


    Arnold found it impossible to agree. ¡°I¡¯m not the king of the world. How could I possibly know what will be uncovered?¡±


    ¡°I hate you!¡±


    She sobbed uncontrobly, not at all resembling a woman who had given birth. Instead, she seemed more like a little girl.


    Hearing her sobbing, Arnold did indeed soften a bit, but he still nudged her. ¡°Get up!¡±


    Josie cried even harder. ¡°Charles was a connection left to me by Old Mr. Russell. If it weren¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t have used him. He trusted me so much, yet I betrayed him. What kind of person does that make me? You¡¯vereally caused a lot of harm!¡±


    It sounded as though it was truly unfair.


    Arnold was both amused and exasperated. He squatted down beside her. ¡°Is thework of connections Old Mr. Russell left you really that important?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°Dexter is the important one, no?¡±


    Josie let out a choked gasp. ¡°You¡¯re spouting nonsense!¡±


    Tears streamed down her face, a sight Arnold couldn¡¯t bear to witness. He took her by the hand and led her away, distancing them from the crowded ce.


    Josie followed closely, making faces behind his back. Yet, the moment he turned around, she transformed into a pitiful little girl.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you go to Dexter for a solution? Whye to me?¡± he asked.Hearing that, Josie lowered her head and replied, ¡°He doesn¡¯t want me to interfere with these matters.¡±


    Arnold sneered, ¡°That¡¯s his style, always thinking he¡¯s right.¡±


    This sentence wasn¡¯t an insult. Josie nodded vehemently in agreement.


    She had drunk too much, her stance unsteady. She deliberately moved closer to him, lowering her voice. ¡°When did you tell Summer?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Arnold evidently became much more cautious. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You were alive and the first person you informed was Summer, right? Is Rachel also working for you? Do they all know you¡¯re still alive? You had conspired with them to set a trap for me, to use me. You said Dexter was using me, but aren¡¯t you doing the same?¡± The night was shrouded in a mncholic haze, and the woman¡¯s eyes were filled with deep emotion yet shattered. ¡°What is real, and what is false?¡± she asked.


    Arnold felt as if he had gone mad, he was unexpectedly moved by the tone of her voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re drunk,¡± he said.


    Under the influence of alcohol, Josie asked, ¡°When you said you loved me and that you could take me away, giving up everything else, were you truly sincere?¡±


    Hearing that question, Arnold pinched her waist, applying force. ¡°I have loved sincerely, but you are not worthy of such sincerity.¡±


    ¡°Who cares!¡± The phone in her pocket vibrated, and Josie forcefully pushed him away. ¡°Your sincerity is nothing but a facade. You im to love me, yet you use me. It was like this before, and it¡¯s the same now.¡±


    She retreated step by step, a river looming behind her. She almost tumbled in, but Arnold, with his quick reflexes, pulled her back. His head was throbbing with pain. ¡°Stop acting crazy. What on earth are you trying to do?¡±


    Josie stared nkly at the moon in the sky. ¡°I don¡¯t know either¡­¡±


    In the next moment, she fell into a deep slumber.


    When she woke up again, it was already the morning of the next day.


    The dawn light roused Josie from her sleep. She awoke with a splitting headache, only to find herself sitting in the passenger seat. Arnold was seated next to her, his head tilted to the side, fast asleep.


    She was still wearing his jacket.

 Chapter 1148

    She attempted to move, her body aching unbearably. Something came to her mind, and she immediately searched for her phone. Thankfully, Arnold hadn¡¯t touched it.


    She woke up, and Arnold did, too. His voice was hoarse when he asked, ¡°Are you awake?¡±


    Josie seemed to have a memorypse. ¡°What did I do yesterday?¡±


    Arnold moved his neck slightly, then began to count on his fingers. ¡°You threatened to jump into the river, asked me to pluck stars for you, ran wildly in the streets, and insisted on sleeping in a trash can-¡±


    Josie closed her eyes, unwilling to reminisce. ¡°Stop! I understand. No need to say more.¡±


    She caused a ruckus all night, and Arnold likewise didn¡¯t get a moment of peace.


    Josie unlocked the car door. ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else¡­ I¡¯ll be going now¡­¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression was filled with mncholy when he saw her cautiousness. ¡°Are you leaving already? Without me, you would have died on the streets yesterday.¡±


    At this point, Josie truly felt like jumping into the river. ¡°So, what do you want?¡±


    After some thought, he pointed toward the cafenot far away. ¡°Buy something for me to eat.¡±


    It was a simple task.


    By the time Josie joined the queue, she finally realized something was amiss. Why on earth am I running errands for him?


    Just then, a stranger lined up behind her, whispering softly, ¡°That¡¯s about enough for the performance, Ms. Warren. Mr. Russell isn¡¯t pleased.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow, noticing a ck car parked across the street.


    Josie rubbed her forehead. ¡°How is the progress?¡±


    ¡°Arnold couldn¡¯t manage his official duties throughout the night. His subordinatescked the necessary acuity and failed to notice.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Josie felt slightly relieved. When it was her turn in line, she ordered two bagels and two bottles of milk. Seeing her unhurried manner, the person behind her grew impatient. ¡°Hurry up¡­¡±


    Josie responded calmly, ¡°It was his n that I wlessly executed. What¡¯s there to be unhappy about?¡±


    After she finished buying breakfast, she leisurely walked up to Arnold¡¯s car, right in front of the ck vehicle, and knocked on thewindow.


    ¡°Make do with this. I have to go.¡± She handed him a set of breakfast.


    ¡°Is that all?¡±


    ¡°I am also human. I also get hungry.¡±


    Josie had taken a few steps out when Arnold called out to her, ¡°Josie.¡±


    She nced back at him.


    ¡°You cane to me if you need to vent again next time, but please, don¡¯t hit my face. It hurts.¡±


    Josie let out an ill-timedugh.


    Turning the deserted corner, the ck car swiftly slid up to the woman, who was just about to stuff a bagel into her mouth.


    The car window rolled down. Dexter¡¯s dark eyes fixated on her.Josie gave the milk a slight shake, looking rather bewildered. ¡°Do you want some?¡±


    Half a minuteter, the food was discarded on the ground. The bodyguard and the driver, in silent agreement, stepped out of the car to smoke. Meanwhile, in the back seat of the car, Josie was pressed against the pitch-ck carwindow, with a force that was unyieldingly strong.


    She was almost out of breath. ¡°Dexter! Have you lost your mind?¡±


    ¡°I asked you to act, not to flirt with him. You really thought you were drunk!¡± Dexter hadn¡¯t been this angry in a long time. He held down her hands, leaning over her head.


    ¡°I waspletely drunk. Who knew your bottle of wine was so strong? I drank more than half of it. It¡¯s a wonder I didn¡¯t pass out!¡±


    Before leaving the mansion, Josie deliberately selected a bottle of fine wine from his collection. She felt the effect three minutes after consuming it.


    Dexter raised his hand, gently prying open her lower jaw. ¡°What have you two talked about?¡±


    Josie let him do whatever he wanted and nced around. ¡°You¡¯ve been following us all night, no? Do you still need to ask me?¡±

 Chapter 1149

    As soon as things ended on his end, he rushed toward Josie. Hence, he had followed her all night. However, he didn¡¯t expect Josie to be drunk and act crazy as she clung to Arnold.


    She deliberately provoked him, causing Dexter¡¯s anger to intensify. ¡°Vixen, I should never have let you go.¡±


    ¡°Could it be that you¡¯re reluctant to let me sacrifice my charm, Mr. Russell?¡± She asked. A bold spark was dancing in her eyes.


    At this point, Dexter let out a coldugh. Suddenly, he leaned down and pressed a kiss to a patch of skin on her neck. Josie¡¯s mind exploded, a tingling numbness instantly spreading throughout her body. But in the next second, he parted his lips and bit down.


    Josie struggled in pain. ¡°It hurts! Why did you bite me?¡±


    Dexter brushed aside her hair. ¡°You carry the scent of Arnold, which I don¡¯t like.¡±


    There was blood on his lips, making hisplexion strikingly vivid. ¡°Since he has touched you, I should bite you. It¡¯s only fair.¡±


    The pain was searing, and Josie gasped for breath. ¡°Are you a dog?¡±


    What kind of deal is this? She retorted sarcastically, ¡°You almost got married twice,and I only once. How is this fair?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t it fall through?¡± He halfy on her, blocking the sunlight that was spilling onto her. ¡°On the day of the wedding, you messed it up, Jo.¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°Even if it wasn¡¯t a wedding, have a thousand ways to make you feel embarrassed.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± he responded swiftly, a hint of pride evident in hisughter. ¡°My acquaintance with you is not superficial, Jo. I know.¡±


    This person is somewhat perverse. With her hands still restrained, Josie felt ufortable, as if she was under his control.


    ¡°So don¡¯t provoke me. If you drive me mad, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re embarrassed.¡± She struggled and demanded, ¡°Let go!¡±


    Not only did Dexter not let go, but he also adjusted her cor with one hand. ¡°Guess where Summer went when we followed her yesterday.¡±


    Josie was tense. ¡°Where did she go?¡±


    ¡°An upscale mansionmunity in the heart of Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Which building did she enter?¡±


    Dexter stretched out his finger and answered, ¡°Samson Maxwell.¡±


    Josie subtly rose, her subconscious mind searching for her phone. As soon as Dexter released her, she began to look up information. Upon seeing the resume on the screen, she froze in ce.


    ¡°No wonder Arnold could go after Charles. His superior is not to be underestimated.¡± Josie was in disbelief. ¡°If he had such power, why did he need to go through such so much trouble?¡±


    Dexter rolled down the car window. The driver


    immediately understood, got in the car, and started the engine.


    ¡°Perhaps the person Samson is supporting isn¡¯t Arnold.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    The vehicle had just passed by the under- renovation La Oriele. Josie looked in that direction and immediately understood something. ¡°Are you talking about Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Dalton is a local, and he doesn¡¯t personally involve himself in many matters. This makes him safer and more secure than ouws like Arnold.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was indifferent. When he investigated Samson Maxwell, he was alsotaken aback, but he had since calmed down.


    ¡°That Summer¡­¡± Josie understood the situation roughly. ¡°She was used as a sacrificial gift.¡±


    Upon hearing her description, Dexter lowered his head and chuckled softly.Upon returning to the mansion, Morgan was still sitting in the courtyard, sipping coffee as if he had already entered retirement.


    Josie stepped out of the car, and Grape came scampering out from inside the house, calling out, ¡°Mommy!¡±


    While calling out for Josie, her legs, however, carried her toward Dexter. She ran into his arms and called out, ¡°Hi, Daddy.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face stiffened, and she entered the mansion in annoyance. ¡°Ingrate.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Dexter was quite pleased, a smile ying on his lips. Larry had been waiting for him for a long time. Upon seeing him, Larry was taken aback. ¡°Mr. Russell, are you injured? Why is there blood on your mouth?¡±


    That belonged to Josie, whose bloodstains had long since dried, turning a deep crimson.


    Dexter¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Do I need to exin to you in detail where this blood came from?¡±

 Chapter 1150

    Larry immediately dared not to continue the conversation.Once Dexter sat down holding the child, Larry finally said, ¡°The person has arrived.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s actions faltered slightly. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°In the hotel, avable to meet at any time.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a bit longer.¡±


    Josie emerged from the restroom, noticing Larry hastily making his way out. She called out to him and asked, ¡°In such a rush to leave?¡±


    Larry¡¯s gaze fell upon her neck, where a vivid red mark was visible. He replied in a suggestive tone, ¡°All matters have been reported, Ms. Warren. There are certain things I need to handle. Please be more patient with Mr. Russell.¡±


    Josie was utterly confused, watching as he walked away.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    After a while, the staff from Russell Group arrived. They were likely high-ranking officials who had hurriedly rushed over, looking travel- worn. Apanying them was a doctor whobrought along medical equipment.


    Josie had never met them before. She took Grape away, not wanting her to hear all that.


    As for them, they paid more attention to Josie. In a sh, they recognized her, all taken by surprise.


    They never thought Dexter would stay away from Wavery to stay in Rivodia for such a long time for the sake of a woman.


    Moreover, this woman turned out to be Josie.


    The doctor was the first to take a seat, proceeding to attach Dexter to the equipment to measure something.


    Meanwhile, others sat nearby, handing Dexter various reports. They asked, ¡°Mr. Russell, you don¡¯t look well. Did you not sleep wellst night?¡±


    Dexter responded nonchntly with a hum.


    While they waited for him to review the report, they said, ¡°Shawn intervened yesterday afternoon, seizing the subway construction project that Russell Group had contracted for this year, including the project at the Rivodia- Wavery border. He¡¯s taken them.¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, Dexter immediately raised an eyebrow. ¡°Shawn from Bastille Group?¡±


    ¡°Yes. After Morgan withdrew to the sidelines, the Bastille family was taken over by Shawn. He really made a name for himself. It¡¯s unclearwhere he got his connections and resources from, but he directly snatched the projects from Russell Group.¡±


    As those words fell, the other party felt somewhat ashamed.


    A deep chill was evident in Dexter¡¯s eyes. ¡°Those two projects are the focus of Russell Group for the entire year. How did Shawn have the ability to intercept them all? Did he have insider information?¡±


    Dexter thought Shawn couldn¡¯t possibly have such extensive connections unless he was privy to insider information.


    The other party denied it immediately by saying, ¡°Impossible. These projects were secrets within Russell Group. They had been in preparation for several months.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t believe any of it, his expression gloomy. ¡°Find the rat.¡±


    ¡°If we were to initiate an internal investigation, I¡¯m afraid we wouldn¡¯t be able to keep it from the board of directors. They have already had their reservations about you over the past two years. Plus, with you now residing in Rivodia indefinitely, a hasty investigation might stir up unnecessary unrest.¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, the doctor immediately frowned at the bloodpressure monitor, signaling to the staff.


    ¡°Of course, we will ensure that the investigation begins without rming the shareholders,¡± the staff member hastily assured.


    Dexter cast a nce at the doctor. ¡°You guys don¡¯t need to look at his face for cues. I am well aware of my own body¡¯s condition.¡±


    No one dared to speak.


    The doctor then said inly, ¡°Do you, though?¡±


    Everyone was taken aback, including Josie, who was standing outside the child¡¯s room.


    ¡°Tell me honestly. How many nights have you spent awake in Rivodia? You¡¯re not even bothered by your high blood pressure, and now you¡¯re dealing with arrhythmia and migraines. Dexter, who do you think you are? Do you really believe you¡¯re invincible?¡±


    The doctor didn¡¯t hesitate to scold people, regardless of their status.


    Dexter rubbed his brow, instinctively ncing in Josie¡¯s direction. He then gave a bitter smile and said, ¡°Dr. Larson, spare me some dignity. There are so many people here.¡±

 Chapter 1151

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother even if the king of the world arrives.¡± Dr. Larson¡¯s expression was grave. ¡°There are so many things in the world, can you really deal with them all? I told you two years ago that your body needs rest. You need to rest and stop overthinking. Only then can your health improve.¡±


    Dexter felt somewhat helpless. ¡°Won¡¯t I be reduced to a useless person?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes, just be a useless person. Listen to me. Focus on recuperating for two years. After that, whatever you choose to do, I won¡¯t interfere.¡±


    Subconsciously, Josie shifted her steps. She knew Dexter¡¯s health wasn¡¯t the best, but she didn¡¯t know it had worsened to that state. How could this have happened?


    It seemed as if Dexter hadn¡¯t heard. He said to the staff, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Go on.¡±


    ¡°Charles was investigated. You should already be aware of this, Mr. Russell. It implicated many people, including Preston Kaufman, who was the general manager at Russell Group. Do you remember? He was Charles¡¯ trusted aide and was also affected. Consequently, many projects came to a halt.¡±


    When Dexter was deep in thought, he had a habit of rubbing his fingertips. He nodded. ¡°This man can withstand scrutiny.¡±N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    ¡°Enduring is one thing, but if someone with ill intentions deliberately stirs up trouble, it¡¯s a different story.¡±


    ¡°We came to Rivodia primarily to implore you to take action. It is crucial that we protect Preston. You personally promoted him within Russell Group. Over the past couple of years, he has handled numerous critical affairs. We simply cannot afford any mishaps.¡±


    A slight change would affect everything else, even implicating Russell Group¡¯s fundamentals.


    Dexter lightly tapped his fingertips. ¡°I¡¯ll handle it.¡±


    ¡°Also¡­¡± The staff hesitated, ncing sideways to indicate. ¡°If someone with ulterior motives knew Ms. Warren was with you, I¡¯m afraid they might make a big fuss about it.¡±


    As those words were spoken, Dexter looked up. ¡°Josie-¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart fluttered, thinking he was calling her over. Just as she was about to step forward, she heard him say. ¡°She must stay with me.¡±


    From a distance, he gazed at her with an intense look in his eyes.


    Josie was somewhat stunned, standing still in her spot.


    Dexter leaned forward slightly. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Are you going to meddle in my personal affairs too?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    ¡°Daddy!¡± A voice suddenly rang out. The neer was Grape. While everyone was distracted, she seized the opportunity and ran out from the children¡¯s room, a freshly drawn picture in her hand. ¡°Daddy, I¡¯ve finished my drawing!¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Josie couldn¡¯t stop Grape in time, and thetter had already quickly thrown herself into Dexter¡¯s arms.


    The icy expression on Dexter¡¯s face instantly melted away. He caught Grape with a smile. ¡°You drew so well.¡±


    Grape obediently pointed out. ¡°This is Daddy, this is Mommy, and this is me! There¡¯s also Grandpa, Uncle Justin, and so many more people.¡±


    That highly abstract painting left everyone present dumbfounded. None of them had ever expected Dexter to have a child out of the blue.


    Dexter was very patient. He unfolded the painting and asked everyone, ¡°Do you think my daughter¡¯s painting is good?¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows.


    Of course, the senior executives nodded in agreement. ¡°I-It¡¯s nice¡­¡±


    In reality, they exchange nces. This couple is truly inseparable now that they have a child together.


    Dexter spoke meaningfully. ¡°Since you think it¡¯s nice, each of you should print a copy and take it with you.¡±


    The others were taken aback.


    He¡¯s lost his mind. Josie thought as she stepped forward in her high heels. Then, she heard the senior executives respond. ¡°We¡¯re on it.¡±


    Josie was rendered speechless.


    Dexter even went as far as educating Grape. ¡°Say thank you to these misters and ma¡¯ams.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, misters and ma¡¯ams! You all have great taste!¡±


    The corner of Josie¡¯s mouth twitched. A self- admiring father paired with a self-admiring daughter. They are indeed a perfect duo.

 Chapter 1152

    After everyone had left, Josie was somewhat Iritated. ¡°You¡¯re going to spoil her with your behavior. Nice drawing? Grape merely doodled. How could they possibly take them away for collection? It¡¯s too absurd.


    Dexter was still admiring the painting. ¡°It¡¯s indeed well-drawn, truly a disy of talent.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Only then did Dexter raise his head. ¡°Do you think I was indulging Grape? In fact, she was the one who came to our rescue.¡±


    His tone wasden with profound implications, which took Josie by surprise. ¡°If they want me to leave, I can leave. There¡¯s no need for us to live together.¡±


    She spoke lightly, yet the chill in Dexter¡¯s heart intensified. ¡°I told you. You must stay with me for at least these hundred days.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond.


    She couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with him. He sat in the doctor¡¯s seat from earlier and seriously asked again, ¡°I remember before I left, your health was perfectly fine. Why has it be like this now? That doctor said-¡±


    She had a serious look on her face, which left Dexter utterly captivated. He chuckled and asked, ¡°Do you believe that longing can makeone sick?¡±


    Josie could bear no more. She reached out his hand. ¡°Dexter!¡±


    He gently captured her delicate fingers. ¡°Hands meant for designing should not be used to point at others.¡±


    Though he said so, he didn¡¯t let go and continued to grip her tightly.


    Arge pile of medicine left by the doctor still remained on the table. Josie felt an unexpected pang of sympathy. For a moment, she didn¡¯t resist. ¡°Dexter, as the ancients used to say, pricks live forever, so don¡¯t die too soon.¡±


    After they met again, quite unusually, she earnestly spoke these words.


    Dexter seemed lost in thought. In the next moment, he swiftly grasped Josie¡¯s wrist, leading her into the master bedroom. The door was then closed behind them.


    Grapes were led away by the servants.


    ¡°What are you doing!¡± Josie was pinned against the door.


    Dexter was lost in deep thought. Suddenly, he reached out, pulling her into his embrace. His head rested against her neck as he softly said, ¡°There are too many people outside. Let mehold you for a moment here, just a moment.¡±


    Josie¡¯s bodypletely stiffened.


    In fact, Dexter from two years ago was never this reasonable, always doing as he pleased. When he desired her, he would simply take action, leaving no room for negotiation.


    But now, his decision seemed to be mixed with many considerations.


    Embracing the warmth silently, Josie hesitated for a long time before she finally raised her hand and gently patted his back.


    Feeling the touch, Dexter¡¯s grip on her intensified as if he wanted to meld her into his very bones and blood. ¡°Jo, I¡¯ve missed you greatly. Every day and every night.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie didn¡¯t know why, but a tear fell from the corner of her eye. She tilted her head back to wipe it away, and in the end, she still pushed Dexter away, saying, ¡°Grape is still outside.¡±


    Her push left Dexter¡¯s arms empty. Subconsciously, he reached out, holding her back in ce. His eyes were bloodshot.


    Josie asked in a low voice, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Last night, you had too much to drink. Youconfronted Arnold, questioning his sincerity. You asked whether he was merely acting or if he truly cared.¡±


    The sudden question caught Josie off guard for a moment, then she retorted, ¡°What are you thinking? Of course, it¡¯s acting.¡±


    Perhaps it was a moment of daze, Dexter suddenly leaned in, nting a deep kiss on her delicate lips.


    Their lips met, and Josie¡¯s mind instantly exploded. She wanted to push him away, but she couldn¡¯t.


    Her eyes widened in surprise. She hadn¡¯t expected Dexter to act that way. Yet, as he held the back of her neck, his forceful intensity was mixed with a deep affection and longing, as well as, a desire to possess her.


    Josie¡¯s heart pounded incessantly, her head buzzing.


    ¡°Mmph!¡±


    ¡°For nearly half a month, I couldn¡¯t keep up the act for too long, Jo.¡±

 Chapter 1153

    He couldn¡¯t suppress his desire for her for too long.That kisssted a full three minutes. By the time Dexter was willing to let go, Josie¡¯s lips had already turned a vivid, beautiful red.


    She stared nkly at him. Just as she was about to raise her hand, he swiftly intercepted it.


    After the kiss, Dexter¡¯s mood had significantly improved. He reached out to wipe the corner of her mouth. ¡°You should at least show me some sincerity in return.¡±


    He paused for a moment, feeling that his choice of words was inappropriate. ¡°I don¡¯t need anything else. A single kiss would be enough.¡±


    Josie was so appalled by his shamelessness that she couldn¡¯t utter a single word. She leaned weakly against the wall, and Dexter straightened her disheveled cor for her, saying, ¡°I heard it.¡±


    ¡°Heard what?¡±


    ¡°Your heart was also beating.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be dead if it didn¡¯t.¡±


    Dexter slightly curved his lips. ¡°I have arrhythmia, often experiencing symptoms ofpalpitations. Just now, your heartbeat was racing just as fast as mine.¡±


    Josie fell silent.


    Inexplicably, Josie¡¯s ears turned a shade of red. She turned around and left, muttering under her breath, ¡°Shameless scoundrel.¡±


    Dexter strolled leisurely.


    Justin¡¯s leg injury had significantly improved, and he was moring to go outside. However, Moses ordered him to stay at home. That led to a bout of awkwardness between the two, with neither willing to speak to the other.


    Josie found it amusing and spent quite a while leaning on the window sill, watching the lively scene unfold.


    It was still night when Dexter stepped out the door to break the siege, saying, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Russell¡­¡± With a defiant look, Justin retorted, ¡°Where to?¡±


    Larry also disagreed, ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s too dangerous. His injuries haven¡¯t healed yet.¡±


    Dexter swept his gaze over Justin¡¯s legs. ¡°It¡¯s pretty much healed. This is just a minor injury. What¡¯s that to a man?¡±


    His tone immediately stirred up Justin¡¯spetitive spirit. ¡°Just say where you want to go. I can go anywhere.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    They were getting agitated. Josie strode over. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Dexter nced at her. ¡°We¡¯re going to meet someone. Are youing?¡±


    She didn¡¯t expect to be invited. Josie hesitated. ¡°Given my status, is it appropriate for me to apany you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if I say it is.¡±


    They went together to the renowned country club in Rivodia. On the surface, it appeared pristine, but in reality, it harbored many ndestine businesses. As soon as Josie stepped inside, she sensed something.


    The style there greatly resembled Arnold¡¯s Sky Pce.


    She chuckled softly. ¡°It couldn¡¯t possibly be a resurrection, could it?¡±


    Larry chimed in from the side, ¡°Indeed, that¡¯s the case.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    The group entered a spacious private room. As soon as Dexter sat down, a man in uniformentered from outside.He had the appearance of a young man, strikingly simr to a certain male celebrity. He respectfully greeted, ¡°Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter scrutinized him. ¡°How long have you been working here?¡±


    ¡°Almost a year.¡±


    ¡°Over the past year, there has been a Mrs. Ruiz who often came to look after your business. Is this true?¡±


    The man hesitated before speaking. ¡°She can hold her liquor and is generous with her spending. She¡¯s considered a major client.¡±


    Dexter propped up one leg and nodded. ¡°Mrs. Ruiz is from Wavery. She has traveled a long way to Rivodia just to patronize your business. It seems she is afraid of being discovered by her husband.¡±


    Josie sat to one side, picking up an orange from the fruit te and slowly peeling it.


    Dexter cut to the chase, asking in a calm and unhurried manner, ¡°Her husband worked in the urban development department, wielding considerable power. Not long ago, Bastille Group took over a project from Russell Group. What do you think? Is there some insider dealing?¡±


    The gears in the other party¡¯s mind turned rapidly, and he quickly grasped the situation. ¡°I got it.¡±


    Dexter nodded, allowing him to leave.

 Chapter 1154

    ¡°You even have informants here. That¡¯s quite a broadwork you have,¡± Josie mocked without hesitation.


    Dexter¡¯s tone softened. ¡°Is the orange sweet?¡±


    Immediately, Josie gripped the fruit tightly, defensively saying, ¡°It¡¯s mine.¡±


    Dexter wore a half smile, his featuresced with affection.


    After a while, the door to the private room was pushed open. A portly man entered, surrounded by his subordinates. Upon recognizing the person inside, he was pleasantly surprised. ¡°Mr. Russell! It¡¯s been a long time!¡±


    When Josie saw that man, she was quite surprised. The neer was Eugene, whom she had previously met during the Rivodia conference.


    He had gained quite a bit of weight.


    After exchanging pleasantries, it was only then that Eugene noticed the figure of Josie. He pped his forehead. ¡°You, you are that, first love! No, ex-wife!¡±


    With a helpless smile, Josie said, ¡°Mr. Jablon, it¡¯s been a long time.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    It seemed that the events of the past had left a deep impression on him.


    ¡°It¡¯s been two years since west met, and Mr. Jablon has been steadily rising in rank. We even have to make an appointment just to see you now. Such a big shot.¡± Dexter personally poured the wine, his words ambiguous.


    ¡°What are you talking about? If it weren¡¯t for your support, I wouldn¡¯t have stayed until now, Mr. Russell. I must also thank you for giving me a hand.¡± Eugene leaned forward. ¡°I hold you in high esteem, Mr. Russell. If it were me, I would never have been able to retreat so rapidly.¡±


    Dexter wore a half smile. ¡°It was merely for self- preservation.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s indeed foresight. Mr. Bastille is no longer the person he used to be now,¡±mented Eugene.


    Dexter did not voice his opinion. ¡°You¡¯re now the third-inmand in Rivodia, Mr. Jablon. Being in such a high position, you should understand the difficulties thate with it.¡±


    There was an underlying message in those words, and Eugene¡¯s enthusiastic response gradually cooled down. He shifted the topic to Josie. ¡°You must be Ms. Warren. I heard that you¡¯re now handling the La Oriele project.¡±


    Josie nodded. ¡°I¡¯m just designing the sketch. Mr. Jablon, you¡¯re ttering me.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Jablon, you¡¯ve heard about Mr. Kaufmanfrom Russell Group being investigated recently, haven¡¯t you?¡± Dexter leaned in, pouring Eugene another ss of wine.


    Cornered, Eugene uttered reluctantly, ¡°I did not instigate this.¡±


    ¡°Oh, who did that, then?¡±


    Eugene nced around, seemingly wanting to speak, but hesitated.


    ¡°There are no surveince cameras in this private room.¡±


    Eugene had no choice but to lower his voice. ¡°I only heard about it when I was at a meeting in the state. It was a directive from the mayor. Charles disobeyed some rules, and someone deliberately nned to deal with him.¡±


    ¡°The mayor.¡± Dexter lightly tapped his fingers on his leg. ¡°Samson Maxwell.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Eugene shook his head profoundly in silence. ¡°If there¡¯s no trouble, he should be released soon.¡±


    ¡°The fear is when one creates trouble out of nothing,¡± Dexter said solemnly. ¡°I can¡¯t control Charles, but you must save Mr. Kaufman, Mr. Jablon.¡±


    The atmosphere became stagnant at once. At that moment, caught in a difficult position,Eugene found himself unable to drink his ss of wine. ¡°That¡¯s no different from asking me to oppose the mayor.¡±


    ¡°Some things don¡¯t require one¡¯s direct involvement, just like when I initially supported you to your current position, Mr. Jablon. I didn¡¯t personally intervene. Mr. Jablon, some things are matters of one¡¯s effort.¡±


    Dexter emphasized thetter part of his sentence.


    As the sense of oppression washed over him, Eugene realized that Dexter was exploiting the past favors to coerce him.


    Dexter handed Eugene the ss of wine. ¡°I won¡¯t insist. Whether to retreat in the face of adversity or to forge ahead indomitably, the choice is yours, Mr. Jablon.¡±


    As the words fell, Eugene closed his eyes for a moment, then picked up the wine ss and drained it in one gulp. ¡°I¡¯ll help you take care of this matter, Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter curved his lips.


    After Eugene left, Josie generally wrapped her mind around the situation. She was surprised. ¡°Did you help him years ago because you knew this day woulde?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression rxed a bit. ¡°A just person attracts much support, an unjust one finds little.¡±

 Chapter 1155

    Every time he lent a hand, it was in anticipation of a return, sooner orter.Josie rose from her seat and headed out, mentioning that she was going to the restroom.


    Justin stood guard outside the door, appearing extremely dedicated. Josie finally understood. There was no danger at all in today¡¯s outing. Dexter had simply brought her out for a breath of fresh air.


    ¡°You really intended to work for Dexter.¡±


    Justin replied rather haughtily, ¡°Of course not.¡±


    ¡°So, what is this you¡¯re doing¡­¡±


    ¡°Just getting a head start on adjusting to the work.¡±


    No matter what job it was, in the end, it was all about serving Dexter. Josie didn¡¯t point this out, instead, she told him she was going to the restroom and would be back shortly.


    What they all failed to notice was that around the corner, someone¡¯s footsteps had abruptly halted. A woman, dressed in vibrant attire, had her hands crossed and was intently fixated on the charming figure ahead.


    ¡°Who was that?¡±


    The attendant by her side thought she wasasking him. ¡°Ms. Strauss, I can¡¯t see the face clearly.¡±


    ¡°Even if she were reduced to ashes, I would recognize her without seeing her face,¡± Rachelmuttered to herself.After speaking, she tailed Josie. It was strange. Why is she here?


    ¡°Go downstairs and call for three, no, make it five security guards toe up,¡± Rachel ordered.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The business at this club was thriving, with almost every private room upied. As Josie passed by, she observed carefully. Upon reaching the restroom and noticing the interior design, she noticed that this was Arnold¡¯s style, reminiscent of his lofty Sky Pce.


    She was here to cause troublest time, so she didn¡¯t pay attention to all these details.


    Outside the restroom, the security guards approached. Upon seeing Josie¡¯s side profile, one of the guards recognized her. ¡°She¡¯s been here before, causing quite amotion in Mr. Mills¡¯ private roomst time, and in the end, Mr. Mills had to escort her out!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mills?¡± Rachel was quite surprised. So, Arnold had indeed known all along.


    ¡°Indeed, she even pped Mr. Mills, leaving us all stunned.¡±


    One of the security guards, clutching a baton in his hand, hesitated. ¡°Should we really be doing this? Will Mr. Mills hold us ountable if he finds out?¡±


    After hearing this, Rachel became even more furious. She was practically gritting her teeth, her voice icy cold. ¡°Who¡¯s the boss here, him or me? If I told you to go, you go!¡±


    At this hour, the women¡¯s restroom wasn¡¯t crowded. Josie walked out from it, and just as she turned the corner, she felt a force gripping her hair. ¡°Ah!¡±


    A scream echoed through the corridor, piercing into Justin¡¯s ears. He reacted instantly, knocking on thepartment door before striding toward the women¡¯s restroom. His leg injury hadn¡¯t fully healed, making his run difficult.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Upon hearing the noise, Dexter and the others immediately came out. They then saw the back of Justin and realized something was wrong. His face was gloomy as he strode off hastily.


    Josie had already been dragged to the ground, the back of her head hitting the hard surface with a thud. The batons struck down on her. The pain was so intense that tears fell from her eyes. ¡°Who are you?¡± she demanded.


    These individuals showed no mercy in their actions, causing Josie to scream incessantly.


    Just then, a figure suddenly kicked away the guards, shielding Josie behind him, blocking the blow that was about tond on her face.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in shock as she saw Dexter recklessly throwing himself into the fray. The blownded on the back of his neck, causing him to grunt in pain, his expression faltering.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Due to a leg injury, Justin arrivedte. He then began to engage in a fight with those few individuals.


    Dexter, almost gritting his teeth, pulled Josie by the hand. ¡°Get up,¡± he said.


    Josie was pulled into a safe corner. After Dexter had thoroughly examined her, the vivid red wounds on her body nearly shattered his heart. Anger surged within him, and with a swift kick, he sent a resisting security guard flying several meters away.

 Chapter 1156

    Dexter hadn¡¯t lifted a finger in many years, but when he did, it was to tear somece down.


    Forced into a corner, Josie could only endure the pain and watch as Dexter and Justin fought the security guards. Though it was called a fight, it was more of a one-sided beating. The inexperienced security guards at the club were no match for their well-trained opponents.


    Dexter mmed a security guard¡¯s head onto the ground, showing no mercy. Blood immediately trickled from the corner of the man¡¯s mouth as he begged for mercy. Only then did Dexter let go, his voice icy to the extreme. ¡°Who ordered you to do this?¡±


    The security guard kept mum.


    ¡°Speak up!¡±


    Josie rubbed her neck, wincing from the severe pain. It was clear that these people had targeted her with premeditated and organized intent.


    The veins in Dexter¡¯s neck bulged prominently, his entire being radiating an ominous aura. He leaned in closer, repeating his words, ¡°If you won¡¯t talk to me, you¡¯ll talk to Hades himself.¡±


    He picked up the blood-stained club from the ground, ready to strike. Sensing something was amiss, Josie quickly shouted, ¡°Dexter!¡±


    His actions came to an abrupt halt, as he cast a nce at her.


    If he really went through with it, the security guard might have truly gone to meet Hades.


    Josie slowly shook her head at him.


    Just then, a scream echoed from outside. It was a woman who had merely intended to use the restroom, but instead, she was met with a gruesome sight. Blood was sttered everywhere, and several peopley fallen.


    Dexter lifted his gaze, and to his surprise, he saw that the woman was Laura. Her face was filled with shock as she took in the scene, and she cried out in disbelief, ¡°Dexter?¡±


    Dexter had already risen to his feet. He walked over to Josie, helping her up and leading her away. Justin, still seething with anger,nded two solid punches on those men. ¡°I¡¯ll hit you every time I see you!¡±


    Laura stood frozen in ce, her surprise deepening at the sight of Josie. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Y-You¡­¡± she stammered.


    Enduring the pain, Josie asked, ¡°Laura? What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Me? I came for the social gathering. I didn¡¯t expect to find you here. Did these people beat you up?¡±


    Laura bombarded her with a series of questions, to which Josie had no idea how to respond. However, Dexter took over the conversation. ¡°Tell the person in charge of this club for me, if they can¡¯t provide an answer to this matter today, they might as well quit their business.¡±


    Laura clenched her fists tightly, overwhelmed by the oppressive aura.


    Outside, Moses was leaning against the car, smoking. Seeing several people covered in blood, he was taken aback. ¡°What happened? Did a fight break out?¡±


    Dexter coldly stated, ¡°Go to the hospital!¡±


    Dexter was filled with an uncontroble resentment. Throughout the journey, he made several rted phone calls, none of which were conducted in a pleasant tone.


    Unable to resist, Josie reached out. ¡°The skin and flesh are wounded, but there¡¯s no internal damage.¡±


    Dexter nced sideways, his eyes filled with heartache. He took Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°This club belongs to Arnold. It¡¯s not good to offend him at this crucial moment.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond, seemingly lost inthought. Even upon reaching the hospital, there was no sign of his mood improving.


    A full body examination had been conducted, confirming that it was indeed just an external wound. The doctor had treated Josie¡¯s injury, but Dexter insisted on having her admitted to the hospital.


    Josie intervened. ¡°Are you out of your mind? Grape is still at home, and you want me to stay here? How can I possibly be at ease?¡±


    Dexter insisted that she stay at the hospital.


    Josie was about to argue further, but the doctor interjected, ¡°Actually Ms. Warren¡¯s injuries are not serious. Just be careful not to get them wet. There¡¯s no need for hospitalization. Mr. Russell, on the other hand¡­ perhaps you should consider getting checked out?¡±


    His gaze fell upon Dexter¡¯s hands, which were entirely smeared with blood.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°It¡¯s not my blood.¡±


    The doctor was at a loss for words.


    News of the incident at the country club quickly spread throughout the entire Rivodia.

 Chapter 1157

    Several security guards had been injured, unable to even stand, frightening quite a few guests.


    When Arnold found out, he was just extricating himself from a social engagement. He lit a cigarette and leaned against the door, only looking up after he had finished listening to Scar¡¯s report.


    Fearfully, Scar reported, ¡°They say it was Dexter who hurt those bodyguards, and the bodyguards beat Josie. The news is spreading like wildfire in the circle.¡±


    In less than ten minutes, Arnold drove to the hospital, emerging from the elevator with a few people.


    Just then, they saw Dexter sitting on a chair by the hospital room door. Larry had brought him medicine, which he swallowed directly without water. On the side of his fair-skinned face was a wound, from which fresh blood had seeped out and had now dried up.


    It was an injury from the fight.


    Dexter felt the gaze on him, subtly pocketed the medicine, and greeted, ¡°Mr. Mills.¡±


    Arnold snapped back to his senses. ¡°I heard that someone in my establishment has upset you, Mr. Russell, so I came specifically to check.¡±


    Leaning back, Dexter said, ¡°Thanks to you, I survived.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Mr. Russell couldn¡¯t possibly be dead. It¡¯s my subordinates who have suffered, now barely clinging to life.¡±


    ¡°Since you say so, it makes me question your Intentions, Mr. Mills. Do you not wee me? Or do you intend to kill me by ambushing me?¡±


    A sinister glint lingered in Dexter¡¯s eyes. He was more than willing to engage in open confrontation, but if anyone resorted to such despicable tactics, he was not one to be trifled with.


    Arnold, knowing he was in the wrong, defended himself, ¡°I didn¡¯t intend for that to happen.¡±


    ¡°Who could that have been then?¡± Dexter questioned.


    ¡°I¡¯m still investigating,¡± Arnold replied.


    Dexter tapped his fingers, while Justin, who was already seething with murderous intent by his side, could no longer hold himself back. He wanted to step forward but was stopped.


    ¡°Where are those security guards now?¡±


    ¡°Since you were the one who personally inflicted the injury, I naturally had to show some respect. I didn¡¯t send them to the hospital,leaving them to fend for themselves.¡±


    ¡°I was rather heavy-handed. I¡¯m afraid I might have broken their ribs. If they don¡¯t go to the hospital, it could be fatal.¡±


    Arnold stared at him intently. ¡°Even if they¡¯re dead, it has nothing to do with Mr. Russell.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s lips curved slightly, and his profile flushed a deep red.


    ¡°Well, thank you, Mr. Mills.¡±


    Immediately, Arnold stepped forward, unable to suppress his desire to enter the ward. However, he was directly blocked by Justin who extended his hand and said, ¡°Who do you think you are? Do you even deserve to enter?¡±


    A sharp glint shed in Arnold¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve seen you somewhere before.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Justin stood tall and firm. ¡°All that is in the past now.¡±


    Arnold chuckled, stepping back to meet Dexter¡¯s gaze. ¡°Mr. Russell, your subordinate is quite brazen.¡±


    Without a hint of emotion, Dexter signaled Justin to withdraw his hand.


    ¡°Dexter! That is my sister!¡±


    Dexter remained silent, his expression unchanged. Left with no other choice, Justin had to withdraw his hand.


    Arnold strode into the ward, just in time to see the nurse changing Josie¡¯s medication. A long red mark stretched across her arm, a sight that was startling to behold.


    His gaze was intense. After a brief nce, he started to walk away. ¡°I will give you an exnation.¡±


    No sooner had Arnold left than Larry withdrew his gaze. ¡°Mr. Russell, is this the end of this? I think those security guards won¡¯t survive.¡±


    This should have been the end of the matter.


    Dexter¡¯splexion still didn¡¯t look good. His mind was filled with the image of Josie copsing on the ground. ¡°That piece ofnd at the Rivodia-Wavery border, tell your subordinates that there¡¯s no need to give it up. I want it.¡±


    Larry was horrified. ¡°But isn¡¯t this too risky with Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°Let Arnold experience what the butterfly effect truly means.¡±


    Dexter rose to his feet, handing the medicine that was in his pocket to Larry. ¡°Don¡¯t let Josie see it.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Justin had sharp eyes, spotting thebel on the bottle. The medication was clearly rted to the heart. He nced at Dexter a few more times.

 Chapter 1158

    At three in the morning, all the guests in the country club had been ushered out. In the vast space, Arnold sat in the seat of honor.


    A row of attendants and security personnel were kneeling down below, with Rachel at the very front.


    She trembled all over, the imprint of a p still evident on her face. As she lifted her head, Arnold threw another wine bottle at her. The liquid sshed all over the floor, and shards of ss embedded into the back of her hand.


    He lost his temper.


    Rachel was trembling, and she bowed down. ¡°I-I d-didn¡¯t know Dexter was also present. I haven¡¯t seen Josie for over two years, I just wanted to teach her a lesson¡­ Arnold, you know I hate her, but I never wished for her death¡­¡±


    Arnold¡¯s face was expressionless, casually tapping his knee.


    ¡°Rachel, do you know what your biggest problem is?¡±


    Rachel did not answer.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Emotions cloud judgment. It was like this two years ago, and it¡¯s the same two yearster. Even if you were to beat her to death, what¡¯s hers will still be hers. What can you possibly gain, you fool! You¡¯ve made no progress!¡±


    He threw yet another bottle of wine, and everyone shuddered.


    ¡°I did it all for you,¡± Rachel eximed. ¡°When I heard she had returned, she set fire to La Oriele and even managed to snatch your leverage. I couldn¡¯t stand it, so I just wanted to vent your anger for you!¡±


    ¡°Venting my anger. You really are considerate, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Arnold sneered coldly, his teeth gritted in anger. ¡°Do you realize the extent of the trouble you¡¯ve caused me, Rachel?¡±


    ¡°You can punish me, in any way you see fit. I can bear it all, but please don¡¯t drive me away¡­¡± Rachel was truly terrified.


    From his elevated position, Arnold slowly approached Rachel. Using the tip of his foot, he lifted her face. Her face, which greatly resembled Josie¡¯s, could never quite capture her unique charm.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Arnold stomped down, and Rachel¡¯s face was crushed against the ground, the pain was so intense that she wished for death.


    ¡°Who told you that Josie has returned?¡±


    ¡°I-It w-was Laura!¡±


    Immediately, Arnold lifted his gaze, revealing an intense sharpness.


    Just at that moment, Scar hurried in, his face filled with anxiety. ¡°Robyn,¡± he said, ¡°Mr. Dalton has sent a message. He wants you toe over.¡±


    Arnold slowly drew in his legs, his expression turning solemn. He then proceeded to walk out.


    ¡°You are to shut yourself in and reflect on your mistakes. The country club is to be shut down, and no business is to be conducted for the next six months!¡±


    By the time Josie had finished tending to her wounds, dawn was nearly breaking. She had injuries on her arms and legs and required assistance to walk.


    She was actually doing fine, but Dexter¡¯splexion was consistently gloomy, filled with fatigue and anger.


    ¡°I think I just saw Arnold. I hope I didn¡¯t startle him.¡±


    Dexter opened the car door for her. ¡°You two are now in a business rtionship, and you¡¯ve been injured. Of course he can¡¯t just sit idly by.¡±


    ¡°What should I do then? Would he stop trusting me? And Paul¡¯s medicine?¡±


    ¡°Josie.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was deep and solemn.


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°What?¡±


    The man¡¯s gaze was intense. ¡°Think more about yourself. Do you realize you almost got beaten to death?¡±


    Josie came to her senses. ¡°Didn¡¯t I survive? You all arrived just in time. I¡¯m lucky to have you guys.¡±


    ¡°What if we weren¡¯t there?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t respond. The possibility of being beaten to death was real. She changed the subject, ¡°But then again, aside from Arnold, I don¡¯t have any enemies in Rivodia. He shouldn¡¯t be the one to harm me. So who could it be, Dexter? Our enemies are hidden while we are exposed, the situation is quite serious.¡±


    She feigned seriousness, all the while subtly observing his expression. Dexter couldn¡¯t help but be amused by her, a fleeting smile gracing his lips. ¡°You should focus on figuring out how to exin this to your daughter when you get home.¡±


    Indeed, this was a problem.

 Chapter 1159

    Early in the morning, Grape woke up and scampered around the living room. Paul watched her with a heartyugh, Nowadays, he couldn¡¯t remember much, but it did save some trouble that his attention waspletely captivated by the little one.


    Josie leaned against the door, watching for a while. Dexter walked up to her side. ¡°Misfortune may be a blessing in disguise.¡±


    Her own daughter healing her father she owed for many years was, in a way, a form ofpensation.


    Josie felt a pang in her heart, unable to articte theplex emotions within.


    ¡°Daddy! Mommy!¡±


    Upon seeing Josie¡¯s figure, Grape rushed over immediately. Josie¡¯s expression changed instantly, but Dexter stepped in front of her, scooping up Grape. ¡°Can you smell it? There¡¯s the scent of alcohol. Mommy has been drinking. Go y with Grandpa and the servant first,¡± he said.


    Grape looked at Josie with wide eyes. ¡°Mommy, you¡¯ve been drinking again.¡±


    Josie raised both hands in surrender. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll go take a bath right away!¡±


    Grape¡¯s attention was diverted by the servant,who provided Josie with the opportunity to hobble away unnoticed.


    However, her room was on the second floor. She struggled to reach the staircase, only to be supported by Dexter, who had returned from his departure. Without allowing any objections, he swiftly turned a corner and said, ¡°Sleep in my room for now.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll sleep upstairs.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s bedroom was neat and tidy, unlike her room which was in a constant state of disarray.


    The doctor had cautioned that the wound must note into contact with water, so bathing was a tormenting ordeal for Josie.


    When Mallory arrived, Josie was in the bathroom, debating whether or not to ask a servant for help.


    ¡°Goodness, the rumors are true. You¡¯re really hurt.¡± Mallory took in Josie¡¯s disheveled appearance from head to toe.


    She had just arrived at Russell Mansion with Calvin when they were promptly invited upstairs by the servants.


    ¡°Stop making fun of me. Help me out.¡± Josie was truly exhausted.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    After Josie took a rejuvenating hot bath, Mallory helped her dry her hair. ¡°You know, the news of you getting beaten up at the country club has already spread throughout Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Josie didn¡¯t understand, as her status wasn¡¯t exactly great.


    ¡°Dexter hurt someone. The news spread like wildfire within the circle. No one expected it was all for you. Your reputation has skyrocketed.¡±


    Josie had a headache.


    ¡°Speaking of which, who did it? Who had such audacity?¡± Mallory added.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure.¡± Josie was pondering the same question. ¡°It probably wasn¡¯t Arnold. He had no reason to do so. The person who could mobilize the security of the country club should be someone from the management.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Mallory found her direction. ¡°I understand now,¡± she said. ¡°Wait for my message. Whoever gets suspended will be revealed in due time.¡±


    Surprised, Josie asked, ¡°Is it really that urate?¡±


    ¡°What do you think? Every single one of those people under Arnold¡¯smand gradually started showing their true colors.¡±


    ¡°So, you came looking for me because you heard this news?¡±


    Mallory gave an embarrassed smile. ¡°Well, I heard that Justin was also there. He was once my apprentice, so I came to see him.¡±


    Inside the lounge, Calvin was admiring Dexter¡¯s treasured collection on the bookshelf.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you being too reckless? You¡¯ve taken over Mr. Dalton¡¯s territory. Aren¡¯t you afraid he¡¯ll retaliate for real?¡±


    ¡°He should have foreseen this day when he decided to mess with Preston,¡± Dexter said nonchntly, slightly bending over to carefully brew some coffee.


    ¡°When I wasing from Wavery, I received news that Preston was already out of danger.¡±


    Dexter nodded. This did note as a surprise.


    ¡°The crux of the matter now lies with Charles. This incident is too peculiar, and Mark has already begun to intervene in the investigation,¡± Calvin added.


    Dexter asked, ¡°How¡¯s his health these days?¡±

 Chapter 1160

    ¡°What do you think? Two years ago, he suffered a fatal blow. Now, he¡¯s extremely fragile, burdened by both physical and psychological stress. You understand.¡±


    Dexter wore a serious expression, seemingly lost in thought.


    ¡°Got an idea?¡± Calvin sat down and took a sip of the coffee he had brewed. He spat it out as soon as it hit his tongue. ¡°Damn, why is it so bitter?¡±


    Dexter lifted his gaze. ¡°It tastes better after a while. Give it another taste.¡±


    Calvin was half convinced. He took another sip, but it was still unbearably bitter.


    He furrowed his brows and said, ¡°Regarding Josie¡¯s matter, should we send word from Rivodia back to Wavery? Just say the word, and I¡¯ll handle it for you.¡±


    Indeed, having Mark¡¯s support at this time was a significant boost. However, Dexter simply rose and walked to the window, his back figure exuding loneliness. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Josie doesn¡¯t want it.¡±


    That sentence left Calvin frozen in ce. The Dexter he knew never cared about what othersthought.


    Calvin rubbed his temples, feeling somewhat helpless. ¡°She brought you so much trouble. I don¡¯t know whether it¡¯s a blessing or a curse.¡±


    ¡°A curse?¡± Dexter chuckled. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    The two empty years had made him realize that her presence by his side was indeed his blessing.


    Left with no choice, Calvin took a deep breath and walked over to Dexter. ¡°To be honest,¡± he said, ¡°no matter how much you do, she may not necessarily be yours. Yet, it¡¯s you who will have to pay a countless price.¡±


    ¡°Calvin,¡± Dexter suddenly called out his name.


    Calvin raised an eyebrow, uttering a hum of acknowledgment.


    ¡°Did you notice Grape when you entered? She¡¯s so tiny, yet she¡¯s so lively and full of wild ideas. She¡¯s half like me and half like her. My heart melts just by looking at her.¡±


    In Dexter¡¯s eyes, there was a gentleness that Calvin had never seen before.


    ¡°Before I met her, I never thought I could have children,¡± Dexter added.


    ¡°If you like children, you could-C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°It was never just about the child. Even without Grape, I would have found Josie. Everything else is insignificant.¡±


    Calvin was momentarily at a loss for words.


    There was a time when he thought the person before him didn¡¯t even need love. But reality proved that he did need it, and all he needed was Josie.


    After a moment, Dexter gave him a pat on the shoulder. ¡°Settle down as soon as you can. Don¡¯t keep her waiting too long.¡±


    He was referring to Mallory who hade to visit together with him.


    Before leaving Russell Mansion, Calvin held up a cup of coffee brewed by Dexter, insisting that Mallory should also have a taste.


    Mallory took a sip, her face full of distaste. ¡°It¡¯s so bitter.¡±


    ¡°Do you think it tastes better after a while?¡±


    Mallory was doubtful. She tasted it again carefully. ¡°No.¡±


    Upon hearing the noise, Josie came out and was startled by the peculiar scene before her. ¡°Is this what was contained in the small jar on the table?¡±


    After some thought, Calvin said, ¡°Yes. Dexter said it¡¯s good coffee.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter. ¡°It¡¯s expired. The servant didn¡¯t have time to throw it away.¡±


    Faced with two petrified figures, Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh. She looked up and was startled to find Dexter standing on the stairs, also revealing a faint smile.


    Why is he acting like a child? But he seems to be smiling a lot more now.


    Regaining his senses, Calvin eximed, ¡°Dexter! Damn you!¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter as well. Calmly, he turned around and answered his phone.


    It was a call from Larry. ¡°Mr. Russell the approval for that piece ofnd has been granted. It now belongs to Wavery and Russell Group.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s smile gradually faded. ¡°All right.¡±

 Chapter 1161

    Josie was injured, and for a good while, Arnold ceased to bother her. Perhaps he knew he was in the wrong, having broken the rules, and was intentionally waiting for her wounds to heal.


    Her arm was injured, greatly slowing down the progress of the design sketches. Seeing that she couldn¡¯t even lift her hand, L simply told her to forget it and focus on her recovery first.


    Josie, seated in his office, half-jokingly asked, ¡°What, are you taking on the responsibilities from Mr. Mills¡¯ side for me?¡±


    L set down his cup of coffee. ¡°Aren¡¯t you close with him? Alice, I¡¯ve noticed that your connections back home are more extensive than I¡¯ve imagined.¡±


    Josie¡¯s smile faded. ¡°They¡¯re all entanglements from the past.¡±


    ¡°Even if you don¡¯t seek help from Robyn, Dexter will sort things out for you, right?¡± L sounded somewhat jealous. It seemed he had heard quite a bit about the situation.


    Josie didn¡¯t n to always rely on Dexter. Paul¡¯s medicine was almost finished, and she had to take the initiative.


    ¡°L, you¡¯ve crossed the line.¡±


    Her expression was unreadable, and Lrealized this. He nodded, then retrieved a salve from the cab and ced it before her. ¡°This will be beneficial for your wound. Give it a try,¡± he suggested.


    Just then, amotion arose from outside. Laura had arrived, bringing with her an abundance of pastries, which stirred a wave of excitement among the employees.


    Josie didn¡¯t take the salve; instead, she walked straight out.


    In the crowd, Laura spotted Josie. She approached her and asked, ¡°Why are you still working despite being injured? Doesn¡¯t your wound hurt?¡±


    ¡°Quit acting!¡± Josieughed lightly. ¡°Would you havee here if you knew I wasn¡¯t around?¡±


    Her straightforwardness made Laura feel somewhat embarrassed. ¡°I heard about the incident at the country club. How did your final check-up go? I was worried, so I came to see you.¡±


    Josie rested her hands on the railing, gazing down at the river view.


    ¡°Arnold learned about the news so quickly that night. Was it you who informed him?¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Laura did not dodge the question. ¡°Of course. This is no small matter. It¡¯s only natural that heshould handle it.¡±


    Josie nodded, feeling deep within that something was off, but she couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on it.


    ¡°Are you close with him?¡±


    This question left Laura somewhat at a loss. She smiled and shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s always something to talk about when ites to capital. If this project is to be dyed, I can lend a hand.¡±


    Josie smiled as well. ¡°It seems like your power of speech isn¡¯t insignificant.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It can bepleted on schedule.¡±


    At that moment, Josie¡¯s phone rang. Mallory had sent a message that read: Guess who got suspended from the country club.


    Josie replied: Who?


    Mallory answered: The country club owner. Guess who the owner is.


    Upon reading the message, Josie didn¡¯t immediately respond. She put away his phone and turned to Laura. ¡°From the looks of it that night, you seem to be a regr at that country club¡±


    ¡°Due to work requirements, I often travel backand forth between two cities. As for social engagements, I¡¯ve been to a few.¡±


    ¡°Given your status, you should be of a high caliber. Do you know the owner of the country club?¡±


    The smile on Laura¡¯s face froze for a moment, then quickly vanished. ¡°Isn¡¯t Arnold the owner?¡±


    ¡°Strange. How did you know Arnold is the owner of this country club? I don¡¯t recall ever mentioning it.¡±


    Turning her head, Laura evaded her questioning. ¡°I¡¯ve only heard a little about it.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t press further and simply responded with a smile.


    She didn¡¯t even know what she was doubting. She just felt that the appearance of Laura that night was too much of a coincidence.

 Chapter 1162

    Upon seeing that Josie was unharmed, Laura felt relieved. As she was about to leave, Josie suddenly called out to her, ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    Josie narrowed her eyes, and to her surprise, she saw a striking red mark on the fair nape of Laura¡¯s neck, which was now turning into a bruise. She touched it lightly and asked, ¡°What is this? Did Zach hit you again?¡±


    Almost reflexively, Laura covered her neck and said, ¡°No. I identally bumped into something.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to bump into something here, right?¡± She was still worried. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Tell me, who hit you?¡±


    Laura was clearly flustered. She held Josie¡¯s hand. ¡°No, really, I just bumped into something.¡±


    Josie locked eyes with her, attempting to discern something amiss, yet all she found in her gaze was tranquility andposure.


    She withdrew her hand. ¡°If there¡¯s anything, you must tell me.¡±


    Laura smiled in relief. ¡°Being a mother is not easy, huh? When will I get to meet the child? I should present the child with a gift.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    Josie curved her lips. ¡°When there¡¯s a chance.¡±


    What she didn¡¯t see was that the moment Laura turned around, her smilepletely faded. Her expression became slightly contorted as she pressed her hand against the back of her neck, where the pain was intense.


    Only after seeing Laura leave did Josie take out her phone. To her surprise, she saw a message from Mallory that read: Rachel!


    In the underground parking lot, as Laura was getting into the car, a voice rang out. ¡°You¡¯ve been gone for so long. How is she doing?¡±


    Laura¡¯s back stiffened for a moment. The next second, she forcefully threw her bag at the woman in the back seat. ¡°You fool, you¡¯re utterly brainless! How could you beat someone up in broad daylight? Do you think she¡¯s dead or what?¡±


    Rachel got hit on her forehead and grimaced in pain. She yelled back just as loudly, ¡°Are you out of your mind? Why are you venting your anger on me? I told you I didn¡¯t think that much. How was I to know Dexter was there?¡±


    Laura couldn¡¯t be bothered to talk to her. She simply pressed down on the elerator and drove off.


    ¡°Now things have reallye to a head. Arnold has shut down the country club, and who knows when he¡¯ll cool off. You can¡¯t just stand by and do nothing. Laura? Hey!¡±


    Laura paid her no attention. She had nowhere to release her pent-up frustration. She remembered the previous night in that dimly lit room when the man had suddenly appeared.


    In the suffocating atmosphere, he held a pitch- ck whip, steadily advancing toward her step by step.


    ¡°Josie¡¯s hurt. Was it you who ordered Rachel to do it?¡±


    Laura couldn¡¯t help but shudder all over. ¡°You appear before me again just for this?¡±


    The man roughly lifted her chin, his grip incredibly strong. ¡°Have I not told you before? I detest women who are too clever for their own good!¡±


    Laura was forced to look up. She said truthfully, ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. I didn¡¯t send anyone to hit her.¡±


    The man looked stern to the extreme. Suddenly, he raised his hand, and the whip harshly fell onto her back. ¡°Without you, she wouldn¡¯t havemitted such a foolish act.¡±


    Laura nearly stumbled, biting her lip in pain. ¡°Morgan, is she really that important to you? Important enough to confront me in the middle of the night?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t seem to understand.¡±


    Another whip cracked.


    Her wound burst open.


    ¡°She bore several wounds, and you too must endure the same.¡±


    Laura closed her eyes, unwilling to recall the nightmarish evening. Morgan had struck her as many times as Josie was stuck. Her wounds werepletely inconspicuous from the outside.


    In the end, she couldn¡¯t even stand up.


    ¡°We¡¯re in the same boat, Laura. Don¡¯t even think about leaving me behind.¡± Rachel¡¯s icy voice pulled her back to reality. ¡°Do you really think you can clear your name? With all the things you¡¯ve done, it will never be possible.¡±

 Chapter 1163

    Paul¡¯s medicine was running out, barely enough tost a few days, which was causing Josie some anxiety


    ¡°I have to go find him.¡±


    When he heard these words, Dexter was sitting in the courtyard, pruning the branches of the flowers. He turned his head and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°Arnold.¡±


    Dexter withdrew his gaze. ¡°No way.¡±


    ¡°Why? Paul¡¯s medicine is almost finished. I have to find him to continue our dealings, instead of idly waiting here.¡±


    ¡°Do you expect him to give you special treatment because of your wounds?¡±


    Josie nced at the wound on her arm, unable to find words to express her feelings. When she turned around, she saw that Paul was sitting in the living room, cheerfully looking at her. A wave of difort washed over her.


    She sat down, her face full of smiles, ¡°Why won¡¯t you let me go, Mr. Russell? You¡¯re not still jealous of us, are you?¡±


    Dexter remained calm andposed. ¡°You¡¯re too narcissistic.¡±


    ¡°Oh, then I must go.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow.


    Dexter cast a nce at her. ¡°It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen amb willingly run into a pack of wolves. Quite courageous.¡±


    Dexter decisively snipped off a wilted flower. ¡°Let¡¯s wait until the design isplete.¡±


    No sooner had the words been spoken than a car sped by,ing to a steady stop outside.


    The one who got out of the car was Morgan, reeking of alcohol. He seemed to have just left ate-night bar. He approached and said, ¡°Oh, Mr. Russell, you¡¯re quite the enthusiast, even pruning flowers.¡±


    He rested his hands on the fence, casting a flirtatious nce at Josie.


    Josie asked, ¡°How much have you drunk?¡±


    Morgan held out two fingers. ¡°Not many.¡±


    ¡°Two boxes?¡±


    ¡°Two bottles of vodka.¡±


    Dexter put down the scissors after he was done. ¡°What do you think about Louis XIV? Inwinter, the flowers that bloom turn ck.¡±


    Morgan pursed his lips. ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s a good variety, but I can grow half a hectare of such a variety. Come see the results when it¡¯s winter.¡±


    This was said to Josie, who couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with him.


    ¡°Half a hectare, you must be loaded.¡±Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.


    ¡°No amount spent on you will ever be considered too much.¡±


    ¡°You sure have a lot of energy, Mr. Bastille, to be able to manage half a hectare of flowers. I can¡¯t. I can only tend to this one nt, the same goes for people,¡± Dexter slowly said.


    At first, Morgan didn¡¯t catch on. It took him a moment to realize he had been subtly mocked. Rolling his eyes, he said to Josie, ¡°Come and see when the timees.¡±


    ¡°I have no interest in flowers.¡±


    Morgan didn¡¯t care. He waved his hand and walked away. He didn¡¯t seem to be joking.


    The final touches to the design blueprint werepleted within the mansion.


    Under the pretext of acknowledging everyone¡¯s efforts, Josie extended an invitation to all the studio employees to the mansion andorchestrated avish feast.


    In the spacious living room, the design blueprint was printed out, ready for the final modifications.


    When Dexter emerged from his study, he happened upon a crowd gathered below. Among them, Grape was merrily weaving in and out.


    Everyone noticed when he appeared. He gave a slight nod and said, ¡°Thank you for your hard work. If anyone has any dietary restrictions, let me know and I¡¯ll inform the kitchen.¡±


    Everyone exchanged nces, momentarily stunned. His face seemed so familiar. Someone regained theirposure and replied, ¡°Thank you, Mr. Russell,¡±


    It¡¯s Mr. Russell! Dexter Russell!


    Everyone turned to look at Josie, whispering, ¡°Damn, Ms. Jo, this is¡­¡±


    Josie rubbed her forehead. ¡°Pretend he doesn¡¯t exist and rx.¡±


    Dexter was none other than the former wealthiest man in Wavery. Everyone in Wavery knew him. It was impossible to ignore his presence.

 Chapter 1164

    Josie, as the lead designer, was engrossed in finalizing thest blueprint, but the tasks of the other staff members had already beenpleted.


    The mansion boasted a splendid view, with a vast expanse ofnd. A group of people gathered on thewn, engaged in a lively game of frisbee.


    Despite his leg injury, Justin insisted on joining in the fun. This enthusiasm was contagious, and even Grape was swept up in it as she cheered them on at the side.


    Through the floor-to-ceiling window, Josie took in everything before her eyes.


    Dexter sat to one side, examining the final design. ¡°Is this your original idea?¡±


    Josie poured herself a cup of coffee. ¡°It¡¯s the result of the collective wisdom of everyone.¡±


    Dexter shed a slight smile, seemingly understanding the trick within. He put down the blueprint. ¡°What a genius.¡±


    This statement sounded rather cryptic. Josie looked over and saw two areas circled in red on the design blueprint.


    ¡°Can you save me a spot here?¡±


    It was right in the middle of the corridor. Josieleaned in and said, ¡°It¡¯s situated at the heart of La Oriele¡¯s control system. Arnold will pay extra attention to it. It probably won¡¯t work.¡± She picked up the pen from the table and drew a circle on the side. ¡°How about here?¡±


    The two were close together. With a slight lift of his eyes, Dexter could take in her profilepletely. Josie probably realized this too, and she straightened up.


    He said, ¡°In the wake of the rectification, Rivodia will pay special attention to La Oriele. The chances of making a significant impact are slim. Let¡¯s settle on this¡±


    It¡¯s settled, then.


    Josie let out a sigh. Just as she was about to bring the coffee to her lips, arge hand suddenly reached over, snatching the coffee away.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Dinner will be ready soon. Coffee ruins your appetite. Drink some water.¡± Dexter handed Josie a cup of water.


    Outside, sunlight was pouring down, apanied by a flurry of activities. Josie raised an eyebrow, but she did not take it.


    The atmosphere was somewhat awkward when suddenly, from downstairs, the voice of Graperang out, ¡°Daddy! Mommy! Come out and y!¡±


    The two of them looked down together, seeing Grape perched happily atop Jade¡¯s head. It seemed someone had egged them on.


    Just as Josie was about to step forward to respond, Dexter grabbed her wrist, pulling her back to the side of the desk. ¡°Do you want them to see us sharing a room?¡±


    ¡°You can stay inside.¡±


    Dexter wore a smile that wasn¡¯t quite a smile. ¡°Have you forgotten that this is my study?¡±


    It was only then that Josie realized that and attempted to slip away from the side. However, she was stopped by Dexter, who stretched out his arm. He slightly lowered his head and rested his chin on her shoulder. His voice carried a hint of childishness as he said, ¡°You¡¯ve spent the whole morning with those male colleagues. I don¡¯t want to let you go.¡±


    Josie was amused. ¡°Dexter, aren¡¯t you being childish? You¡¯re even jealous of my colleagues.¡±


    Dexter openly admitted, ¡°Yes, I am.¡±


    ¡°Silly. You have many beautiful women around you as subordinates, but I¡¯ve never said anything about it.¡±


    ¡°Who? If you don¡¯t like them, I¡¯ll fire themimmediately¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡± Josie said, somewhat exasperated. She wasn¡¯t jealous. At that moment, Grape was still calling out to her parents incessantly. ¡°Your daughter is asking for you.¡±


    Dexter rose to his feet, locking eyes with her. ¡°So now you admit that she¡¯s my daughter.¡±


    Words eluded Josie.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    She pushed him, but her arm was injured. Dexter was afraid of hurting her, so he didn¡¯t dare to resist. As a result, he lost his bnce and leaned forward, pressing Josie back to her original position. He bent down and kissed the corner of her lips.


    Josie waspletely stiffened.


    Dexter furrowed his brows, seemingly taken aback. He had intended to pull away, but having tasted the sweetness, he found himself unwilling to let go. Tightening his hold, he cradled the back of her neck and bestowed upon her a tender kiss.

 Chapter 1165

    ¡°Mm!¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened as she attempted to break free, but she couldn¡¯t possibly resist Dexter and could only remain frozen in ce.


    Dexter always showed exceptional patience toward her. As the kiss deepened, Josie¡¯s legs nearly gave out, and she had to lean on the corner of the table for support.


    She tugged at the corner of his clothes.


    Indeed, in this world, no one understood her body better than Dexter.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± she whimpered.


    The man¡¯s kiss became increasingly domineering and forceful. Unlike thest time, this time it was like a sudden storm, leaving no chance for her to catch her breath.


    The two were close, and Josie could distinctly feel his hardness. Her entire face flushed red, and she was unable to move.


    ¡°What are you hiding from?¡± He finally let her go, panting softly in her ear. ¡°You like it best when I kiss you like this, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°That was once the case.¡±


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t want it, you could have resisted, but you didn¡¯t, Jo. Your body is more honestthan you.¡± His maic voice filled her ears, leaving her almost numb.


    She expressed her resentment. ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it. I¡¯m just hurt so I-¡±


    ¡°Is that tattoo still there?¡± he suddenly interrupted her.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Hisrge hand that had been pressing against the back of her head slowly descended to her waist. Her smooth skin was addictively enticing.


    Tears welled up in Josie¡¯s eyes, and she turned her head away. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Liar.¡± Dexter chuckled lightly. He gently traced his fingers over the marks that once adorned her waist.


    ¡°I¡¯m just afraid of the pain, so I didn¡¯t get rid of it,¡± Josie admitted without lying.


    ¡°Is it destined, then, that you will ultimately be mine?¡± Dexter¡¯s voice was very soft. He was holding himself back, not pushing any further. ¡°I can wait no matter how long it takes.¡±


    He rxed his grip and entered the bathroom to freshen up, leaving Josie behind, who was somewhat stunned.


    She gently touched her slightly swollen lips. The Dexter of the past had never shown herthis much respect. If he wanted something, he would directly take it, never backing down.


    Josie swiftly calmed her uneven breaths, a sensation of tingles spreading across her scalp. For a moment, she was unable to discern her previous state of absent-mindedness.


    Downstairs, Grape had been calling out for a long time with no response. Eventually, she stopped shouting. When Josie came downstairs, the little one was sitting off to the side, sulking.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? I was just working a moment ago.¡±


    Grape turned around, hugging her plump arms, with the corners of her mouth lifted high in a smile.


    ¡°You lied.¡±


    ¡°How did I lie you?¡±


    ¡°You ignored me. Daddy ignored me too. When you were around, Daddy wouldn¡¯t work. He would just watch you. So, you and Daddy were deliberately ignoring me.¡±


    Upon hearing this, everyone around stifled theirughter. ¡°She actually makes sense.¡±


    Josie was left speechless, silently cursing Dexter countless times in her heart.


    ¡°I promise I¡¯ll respond to you right away next time when you call me. I¡¯m sorry.¡± She made a funny face. ¡°Can you forgive me this time?¡±


    Grape pouted for a moment and waved her hand. ¡°All right! I forgive you, Mommy.¡±


    Josieughed. ¡°Thank you, sweetie.¡±


    The servant announced that dinner was ready, and everyone gradually took their seats. Josie rose, only to meet a pair of intensely burning gazes. It was Justin, staring at the red mark on her neck, his expression grave.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Come with me for a second.¡± Upon reaching the corner, Justin got straight to the point. ¡°You¡¯ve reconciled with Dexter.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°No. You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    ¡°Am I overthinking this or do you already have an idea? Josie, don¡¯t make me scold you. Wasn¡¯t the lesson from two years ago painful enough?¡±

 Chapter 1166

    Josie pressed her lips together, her smile fading. ¡°I understand what you¡¯re implying, but it¡¯s not true. The only reason I¡¯m still here today is because of the contract I have with him-a hundred days. If I can resolve the issue with Arnold, I¡¯ll immediately leave with the child.¡±


    Justin sized her up. ¡°I¡¯m afraid your lingering feelings are still there, and you haven¡¯t even realized it yourself.¡±


    That single sentence struck Josie¡¯s heart. She was momentarily stunned, then shook her head. ¡°Impossible.¡±


    Justin remained silent.


    ¡°It¡¯s all just for show. Don¡¯t worry,¡± Josie said seriously.


    Justin nodded, seemingly lost in thought. He hesitated before saying, ¡°Dexter is a cunning man. Don¡¯t let him manipte you. In any case, avoid being with him.¡±


    Right then, someone at the dining table called out to them. Josie said, ¡°All right. Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    The two of them stepped into the light, only to see Dexter descending the stairs. Josie¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She was unsure if he had heard anything, but the man¡¯s expression remained unchanged as he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Josie averted her gaze. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    The meal was enjoyed heartily by all, both guests and hosts alike. Initially, everyone was quite nervous. After all, it was their first time having such close contact with Dexter. They hadn¡¯t expected him to dine with them. However, Dexter was not only approachable but also managed to strike up a conversation with everyone, discussing various topics rted to their fields. He was even willing to delve deeper into the discussions.


    Hisck of any affectation or ostentation was truly unexpected.


    Only Josie was observing from the sidelines, discerning the intricacies within.


    As long as Dexter was inclined, he had the potential to earn everyone¡¯s fondness. Evidently, he was so inclined at that time.


    One employee didn¡¯t understand theplexities involved. Before leaving, she said to Josie, ¡°Seize the opportunity.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Josie was speechless. It seems she fell at the first line of defense.


    Dexter seldom drank alcohol, yet during this meal, he had consumed some and was slightly tipsy. He sat on the couch, lost in thought, reminiscing about something unknown.


    ¡°Are you all right?¡± Josie approached politely, yet with a hint of unease. She wasn¡¯t quite sureif he had heard what was said earlier.


    His eyes blurry, Dexter said, ¡°Jo¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I brought Xanthe here. How do you want to deal with her?¡±


    He brought Xanthe to Rivodia? Josie was somewhat taken aback. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say¡­ Why did you bring her here?¡±


    ¡°I know you despise her. I brought her here so you could vent your anger.¡±


    He looked extremely humbled at that moment.


    Caught off guard, Josie felt as if something had struck her at the core. She knew that Dexter did not love Xanthe and had no feelings for her, but there was always some form of resentment. The resentment between a mother and son could be more subtle than that between strangers.


    But now, he had brought his biological mother so that she could vent her anger.


    ¡°Are you drunk?¡± Josie asked, somewhat at a loss. She crouched down, meeting his gaze.


    She would seek her own revenge on Xanthe. There was no need for him to do so, as it seemed like he was trying to curry favor withher.


    ¡°I¡¯m not drunk,¡± he said, his voice clear. ¡°She arrived a while ago. I thought I would say itter, but then I suddenly felt it might be better to settle things sooner rather thanter.¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t have the energy right now.¡±


    ¡°How do you want to proceed? I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Josie felt a pang in her heart. ¡°What¡¯s really going on with you? You don¡¯t have to go to such lengths.¡±


    ¡°I love you,¡± Dexter said abruptly. ¡°I hope that your animosity toward me may diminish, even if it¡¯s only slightly.¡±

 Chapter 1167

    Josie stood still, momentarily stunned. After a while, she nodded and rose to her feet, calling for Moses toe in. ¡°He¡¯s drunk,¡± she said, ¡°Help him inside to rest.¡±


    Moses hurriedly entered, only to be met with Dexter¡¯s gaze. For a moment, he was torn between advancing and retreating. Meanwhile, Josie had already returned to her room, or more urately, Dexter¡¯s room, where she had been temporarily residing for the past few days.


    Moses was at a loss. ¡°Should I¡­ not havee in?¡±


    Dexter merely closed his eyes, worn out from exhaustion.


    Once the design blueprint waspleted, Josie, as the lead designer, naturally had to present it to Arnold for review. It wasn¡¯t just him, but also the leader in charge of this project, so she arranged a banquet at a high- end restaurant.


    Before Josie left, she specifically instructed Moses to prepare a wheelchair for her. She sat in it to give it a try and found that it was fully automatic, which was quite impressive.


    Grape sat in Dexter¡¯sp and asked, ¡°Mommy, is this your new toy?¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips twitched. She saw Dexter leaning against the door. His expression wasambiguous, a mix of amusement and indifference. The destion he had shown that day was gone, reced by his usual calm demeanor.


    ¡°Expecting Arnold to have a conscience is like hoping to pluck stars from the sky,¡± he mocked, showing no courtesy at all.


    Josie adjusted her wheelchair. ¡°I¡¯m just going through the motions. Who knows, he might still have lingering feelings for me. You can never be too sure.¡±


    There was a hidden meaning in her words. She had said them intentionally. The atmosphere of that day had awakened her. She could no longer afford to be ambiguous with Dexter. Things were different now, and they couldn¡¯t get back together.


    Dexter caught on. His expression didn¡¯t change as he said, ¡°Then, I wish you good luck.¡±


    Josie curved her lips into a smile. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Their conversation sent chills down the spines of those around them.


    ¡°I won¡¯t be able to see you off tomorrow. I have official matters to attend to.¡±


    Josie was unbothered, ¡°I was going to go by myself. I don¡¯t need a ride.¡±


    Dexter left, cradling Grape in his arms.


    The servant couldn¡¯t bear to listen any longer. She said cautiously, ¡°Mrs. Russell, isn¡¯t it too hurtful to talk to Mr. Russell like that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, don¡¯t call me ¡®Mrs. Russell. I¡¯ve been divorced from him for a long time now. I don¡¯t belong to anyone; I am my own person. Stop making up beautiful dreams for him.¡±


    The servant felt somewhat embarrassed and quickly apologized.


    The man walked further and further into the distance, never looking back. Josie cast a nce, forcibly suppressing what she thought was a surge of sympathy.


    The next morning, when Josie woke up, Dexter was already not at home. Justin was taking care of Paul. ¡°He just left a short while ago.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°I don¡¯t want to know.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Justin wore a face of disbelief.


    She tidied up a bit, allowing her exhaustion to show. Before she left, Grape was still asleep. She instructed Justin, ¡°Feed her milk every three hours. Remember to remind her to use the bathroom. The nanny will prepare her solid food. If you can¡¯t handle it, call me.¡±


    With a face full of confidence, Justin said, ¡°I¡¯ve been with the little girl for so many days now, I¡¯m sure I can handle it.¡±


    After some thought, Josie agreed. After all, there were always servants avable to help if needed.


    She rxed and bent down to speak to Paul. ¡°Dad, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Paul responded a beatte. ¡°Hmm? Who are you calling?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and went out in the wheelchair.


    Justin was right. Dexter had just left not long ago. As two cars brushed past each other around the corner, Josie instructed Moses to step on the elerator.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, you clearly don¡¯t have any official business today.¡± Larry in the passenger seat couldn¡¯t understand.

 Chapter 1168

    Ever since Dexter had taken a step back from the limelight, his public duties had significantly decreased. He only needed to personally step in for major decisions. Besides, they were in Rivodia now.


    The man in the backseat wore a gloomy expression. He watched as Josie¡¯s car went further and further away, his irritation mounting. ¡°Let¡¯s head to the hotel.¡±


    Larry didn¡¯t react immediately. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    When Josie arrived at Arnold¡¯s office, she was pushed in a wheelchair by Moses. She looked haggard, and for a moment, everyone thought she was there to cause trouble when she said, ¡°I came to find Mr. Mills.¡±


    The receptionist asked nervously, ¡°Do you have an appointment?¡±


    ¡°Call him directly and tell him a woman with a limp is looking for him,¡± Josie replied, finding the situation somewhat intriguing.


    The receptionist dared not make the call. ¡°Mr. Mills is not here.¡±


    Josie clearly didn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Today is a workday.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mills never adheres to a fixed work schedule.¡±


    Josie lightly tapped her wheelchair. ¡°I¡¯ll wait for him here. Let me know when he arrives.¡±


    She seemed to be here to cause trouble. Yet, the receptionist maintained a smile. ¡°If you don¡¯t have an appointment, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t let you wait here. Please, I must ask you to leave.¡±


    Josie clutched theptop in her arms and wore an innocent look. ¡°If I remember correctly, today is the deadline. If Mr. Mills asks about it, will you take responsibility?¡±


    Upon hearing this, the receptionist immediately took out a pen and paper. ¡°May I ask your name for registration, please?¡±


    ¡°Josie Warren, but some call me Alice.¡±


    In the end, the phone call was made. By the time Arnold arrived, half an hour had already passed. He wore an expression of irritation as if he had just woken up, his hair aplete mess. He was holding his car keys in his hand.


    Everyone was terrified.


    However, as Arnold entered the lobby and caught his first glimpse of Josie, his impatience had all but vanished, reced by a subtle sense of guilt.


    ¡°Is it really that bad? Is there a need for a wheelchair?¡±


    Josie blinked. ¡°The doctor said it might have to


    be amputated.¡±


    Arnold slightly bent over, locking eyes with her. ¡°I also have a copy of your medical report, so stop pretending.¡±


    Josie simply gave up. ¡°Anyway, I can¡¯t walk anymore.¡±


    Arnold red at her. ¡°You¡¯re really pushing it, aren¡¯t you? My security guards are still bedridden. What more do you want?¡±


    The lobby was silent, and upon hearing these words, Josie truly felt as if she hade to cause trouble.


    But she remained silent. After a moment, Arnold had no choice but to take over Moses¡¯ position and push her into the elevator. ¡°I give up.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s office was just like anyone else¡¯s, aplete mess. Josie handed over the design drawing. ¡°It¡¯s finished. I¡¯m here on behalf of the team to let you review it.¡±


    Arnold nced at her. ¡°Your team sent you, a disabled person, toe alone. They¡¯re quite ruthless.¡±


    ¡°I want to gain your sympathy, Mr. Mills. Who could be more ruthless than you? You sent me straight to the hospital.¡±


    When Josie spoke these words, she remained still, closely observing his expression. She distinctly saw a trace of difort sh across his face. Arnold raised an eyebrow. ¡°I may be ruthless, but naturally there are those morepassionate than me. Dexter, after all, is someone who would risk everything for his beloved.¡±


    Josie looked uneasy at the mention of Dexter.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Arnold studied the design drawing and asked, ¡°Josie, you wouldn¡¯t be ying tricks on me with this blueprint, would you?¡±


    The two exchanged nces. Josie¡¯s expression was grim. ¡°Just have a professional check it out. I¡¯m not in the mood to stake my reputation on your games.¡±


    Arnold did not quite understand. ¡°So I¡¯ve wronged you?¡±


    Josie casually picked up a pillow and tossed it at him.

 Chapter 1169

    He began tough. Right then, his assistant knocked on the door. ¡°Mr. Mills, there¡¯s a call for you. They said they¡¯re almost here.¡±


    The city leaders were due to arrive, and Arnold was waiting at the restaurant entrance with Josie. As the leaders got out of their cars, they were taken aback. ¡°Ms. Warren, what happened to your leg? It was fine thest time we met.¡±


    Josie let out a sigh. ¡°I was unlucky. I got beaten up for no reason while walking down the street. Rivodia doesn¡¯t seem too safe.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s so audacious to hit someone in broad daylight?¡±


    Their faces were filled with anger.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Standing behind Josie, Arnold scoffed, ¡°I bet you¡¯ve stirred up some trouble, haven¡¯t you? It¡¯s left someone displeased. Ms. Warren, you better think carefully, who have you offended?¡±


    Josie gritted her teeth in frustration. ¡°I¡¯ve always been upright and honest, yet I can¡¯t figure out how I got into this mess. I suppose I must be stuck with some bad luck as if I¡¯ve upset the gods and brought misfortune upon myself.¡±


    Without changing his expression, Arnold kicked her from behind.


    The leaders exchanged nces. One of themkindly asked, ¡°Have the person whomitted the assault been apprehended?¡±


    Arnold chimed in, ¡°Yeah, have they been caught?¡±


    Josie red at him, knowing he was referring to Dexter. ¡°They¡¯re still atrge.¡±


    Arnold smiled, patting her shoulder, ¡°It seems we need to step up our efforts.¡±


    After the meal, Arnold indeed called in a professional to check, ensuring there were no issues. Once the people at the table clinked sses, it signified that they could start work.


    As they chatted casually around the table, Josie was busy eating when she heard them say, ¡°The second half of the month is going to be busy.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no hardship in doing one¡¯s duty. It¡¯s just that this time, we¡¯ve finally got something on Vipera. I hope there won¡¯t be any mistakes.¡±


    Josie nced at Arnold. She noticed he was absentmindedly toying with the food on his te, seemingly oblivious to his surroundings.


    ¡°Vipera has been in Rivodia for many years, always acting with caution. You must be careful not to harm our brothers.¡±


    ¡°In this line of work, who hasn¡¯t been hurtbefore? It¡¯s a minor issue.¡±


    At this moment, Arnold raised his ss. ¡°Vipera? Are you referring to Mr. Vipera who was once from La Oriele?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Mills, you know him?¡±


    ¡°When I took over La Oriele, he had already left. However, I¡¯ve heard rumors that he¡¯s a formidable figure. Have we found any leads?¡±


    Josie lowered her gaze, admiring Arnold¡¯s ability to lie with a straight face.


    ¡°Suppose so. I can¡¯t disclose the specifics. If you have any leads about him, you must share them with us.¡±


    Arnold nodded with a smile.


    Josie could no longer sit still. She pushed her wheelchair, announcing she needed to use the restroom. Arnold responded leisurely, ¡°Do you need my help, Ms. Warren?¡±


    ¡°You should really mind your own business, Mr. Mills.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t bear to stay in the private room any longer. The news was almost earth- shattering. She took out her phone, intending to share the news with Dexter, but remembering their cold war from the day before, she typed a line of text only to delete it.


    Never mind, let¡¯s head back first.


    When she emerged from the restroom, she was no longer in her wheelchair. Her face was made up, adding a touch of color to herplexion.


    However, as soon as she stepped out, she saw Arnold leaning against the wall, which startled her. ¡°Are you sick or something? Do you have some sort of fetish, like hanging around outside women¡¯s restrooms?¡±


    Arnold gave her a nce. ¡°So you can walk now, no need for the wheelchair anymore?¡±

 Chapter 1170

    Josie clicked her tongue. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s gaze fell on her phone. ¡°Did you tip off Dexter?¡±


    His guess hit the mark, causing Josie¡¯s spine to stiffen. However, she quickly responded, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking things.¡±


    ¡°The information isn¡¯t urate enough. I can tell you more. Mr. Vipera is nning to transport a batch of goods out of the state at the end of the month. The police want to seize this opportunity to apprehend him. As for the route map, I have a copy here as well.¡± Arnold spoke slowly and deliberately, causing Josie¡¯s back to break out in a cold sweat. She had no idea why he was telling her this.


    ¡°You telling me all this means it isn¡¯t part of the original n.¡±


    ¡°It is the original n.¡± Arnold curled his lips, hisrge hand resting on the back of her head, forcing her closer to him. ¡°Go tell Dexter. He can surelye up with a solution. But if you do this, I won¡¯t provide your father¡¯s medicine anymore.¡±


    Josie trembled slightly. ¡°You¡¯re testing me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just an entrance examination. Jo, you¡¯ve never shown loyalty to me.¡±


    The two exchanged nces. Josie¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°Lapdog.¡±


    Arnold wasn¡¯t angry.


    ¡°Do you really intend to be Mr. Dalton¡¯spdog for the rest of your life? It¡¯s not toote to turn back now. I can fight for a chance to reduce your sentence,¡± Josie added.


    This statement was so naive that Arnold couldn¡¯t help butugh upon hearing it. He lightly tapped his fingers and said, ¡°The day you can take ten years off my sentence is the day I¡¯ll turn over a new leaf.¡±


    It was almost like a fairy tale.


    Josie¡¯s mind raced. ¡°If you don¡¯t give me the medicine, your father¡¯s illness will also worsen, and you won¡¯t see him again in this lifetime.¡±


    ¡°So what if I can¡¯t see him? At least he¡¯s still alive. But if I don¡¯t give you the medicine, your father won¡¯t be able to survive.¡±


    Each word, each sentence, was like a knife plunging into Josie¡¯s heart. She shook her head. Facing this nearly unsolvable problem, she was unsure of how to choose. ¡°If Dexter doesn¡¯t take action, there¡¯s still the police. They clearly have a n. How will you respond when the timees?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you, then.¡± Arnold took a deep breathand smiled. ¡°You¡¯re quite close with the police, aren¡¯t you? Think of a way to buy some time. You can do that, right?¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but tremble. ¡°You think of me too highly.¡±


    Arnold withdrew his hands, shoved them into his pockets, and was about to say something when Josie¡¯s phone lit up. It was a call from Justin.


    There must be something going on with Grape.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Josie shot Arnold a re, collected herself, and answered the phone. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not at home, and neither is Dexter. Grape didn¡¯t see you guys all day. She¡¯s crying non-stop.¡± Justin was quite helpless. Taking care of a child was not as easy as he had imagined.


    ¡°Hand her the phone.¡±


    After a moment, Grape picked up the phone. ¡°Mommy, I miss you so much.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression instantly softened, filled with an indescribable tenderness. ¡°I¡¯m working outside. I¡¯ll be back soon. Can you y with Uncle Justin for a while?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been ying with Uncle Justin for quite a while now. Mommy, can Ie find you?¡±


    Although the child was crying, her voice was clear and resonant. Arnold¡¯s expression turned somewhat solemn.


    Josie nced at the person beside her. ¡°Be good. Wait at home for me toe back.¡±


    After she finished speaking and hung up, she walked past Arnold without seeking his opinion. She had barely taken a few steps when he pulled her into a corner and said in a low voice, ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened, and without realizing it, she lowered her voice as well as she asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±

 Chapter 1171

    Arnold¡¯s face was dark and gloomy. ¡°Mr. Dalton is outside.¡±


    The women¡¯s restroom was situated right next to the men¡¯s restroom.A jolt went through Josie¡¯s heart.


    From outside came the steady sound of footsteps. Josie wanted to take a look, but Arnold pulled her back. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    ¡°I want to see if he also wears a mask outside.¡±


    Arnold chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re a curious person, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I have a question for you. Does he always wear a mask when he sees you?¡± she asked out of genuine curiosity.


    Arnold didn¡¯t want to answer, but under her intense gaze, he had no choice but to nod. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Does he use a voice changer as well?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Then when was thest time you saw him?¡±


    This question caused Arnold to pause slightly. ¡°Thanks to you, it was a few days ago.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t understand. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    She seemed so heartless that it irked Arnold. If it weren¡¯t for her, Rachel¡¯s country club wouldn¡¯t have closed down. The night he met with Wayne, he was livid. ¡°Arnold, you¡¯ve fallen for this woman again.¡±


    Arnold crossed his arms, unwilling to admit it. ¡°My subordinates were ignorant. It wasn¡¯t mymand. They have already been punished.¡±


    Wayne sat in a high position, letting out a coldugh. ¡°You know, thend at the Rivodia- Wavery border was taken away by Dexter! Just two hours ago!¡±


    Immediately, Arnold looked up. ¡°How could this be? The leaders of Rivodia clearly promised me¡­¡± At this point, anything said would merely be an excuse. Arnold spoke halfway and then closed his mouth. ¡°I take full responsibility for this matter.¡±


    ¡°Do you know why Dexter suddenly became so decisive? He¡¯s asserting his dominance, warning you not to mess with that woman! Why did you still take the risk? You¡¯ve ruined my big ns. You better think of a way to make amends.¡±


    The grating mechanical noise was painfully piercing to the ears. Arnold, however, remained defiant. ¡°I¡¯ve been contending with him for years,¡± he said. ¡°I won¡¯t let him seed soeasily.¡±


    ¡°Stay away from her. I won¡¯t repeat myself.¡± Wayne mmed down a cup. ¡°Or else, get rid of her. Don¡¯t interfere with my business!¡±


    Arnold turned his head. Josie still wore that stubborn and dissatisfied expression. He averted his gaze, feeling a headacheing.


    ¡°Answer me,¡± she urged.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by thanks to me, Arnold? Did Mr. Dalton tell you to stay away from me?¡±


    Her guess was quite urate. ¡°I want to stay away from you more than anyone else.¡±


    ¡°But you can¡¯t do it.¡± Josie raised an eyebrow slyly. ¡°Tell me honestly, do you still have lingering feelings for me?¡±


    As the footsteps of Wayne outside grew fainter and fainter, Arnold stepped out and said, ¡°To be honest, you are the most delusional woman I have ever met in my life.¡±


    Josie followed behind him, matching his pace. Her phone lit up again, the screen disying Laura¡¯s name. She had sent a message that read: I¡¯ming to see you now. Do you wee me?


    Josie halted in her steps and replied: I¡¯m not at home.


    Laura: Where are you, then?


    Josie: I¡¯m outside. Anyway, Grape is at home crying. She likes beautiful youngdies. You should go see her. It would probably cheer her up.


    Laura: Haha, then I¡¯ll wait for you at home.


    Arnold turned around and saw her standing still. He was somewhat exasperated. ¡°Can¡¯t you walk again?¡±


    Josie deliberately walked slowly. ¡°What¡¯s the rush? You have no patience for the disabled.¡±


    Before, it was Arnold who brought her here, so naturally, she would return in his car. By now, Josie was no longer afraid of him. On the contrary, she wanted to extract more useful information from him.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your driver? Why are you driving yourself?¡±

 Chapter 1172

    Thest time he threatened her, he had blocked her path.Arnold pressed down on the elerator, wishing she would just shut up.


    He had been awoken by a call from the front desk in the morning when his mind was still in a haze. He ended up driving out on his own, without a chauffeur. It was only then that he realized he had truly been outmaneuvered by Josie.


    After traveling a certain distance, Arnold suddenly slowed down. He looked ahead andughed. ¡°What a day. So many things happened.¡±


    Josie looked ahead and was startled to see Dexter emerging from a hotel with Larry trailing behind him.


    Her face stiffened slightly. It¡¯s a hotel¡­ Did he go to meet Xanthe?


    Arnold noticed herplexion changing rapidly and teased, ¡°Gee, he wouldn¡¯t have gotten a room with someone, would he? How about I y detective for you?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s car shot off like an arrow released from its bowstring, while Arnold drove right up to the hotel entrance. Josie¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Get out!¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Arnold tossed the car keys to the parking valet before proceeding inside.


    In reality, it wasn¡¯t that great of a hotel. At most, it was four-star.


    Josie quickly caught up, grabbing his arm. ¡°Even if he¡¯s gotten a room with someone, it has nothing to do with me. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Indeed, it isn¡¯t fitting for him to stay in a four- star hotel.¡±


    Josie nodded vigorously. ¡°So let¡¯s get going.¡±


    ¡°But my curiosity is piqued even more!¡±


    Arnold shrugged her off, walking up to the front desk. ¡°Excuse me, which room did Mr. Russell who just left enter?¡±


    The receptionist shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t disclose our guest¡¯s privacy to you.¡±


    Josie let out a sigh of relief.


    In the next moment, Arnold mysteriously produced an identification from somewhere. ¡°I am a police officer.¡±


    ¡°Room 602. This is the keycard.¡±


    Josie was incredulous. She was about toexpose the truth, but Arnold covered her mouth and led her directly toward the elevator.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost your mind. You actually forged documents!¡± Once inside the elevator, Josie shook him off.


    He even wants to reduce his sentence by ten years, but with the way things are going, adding ten more years to his sentence won¡¯t be enough.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know why he came in?¡± Arnold hit the nail on the head with his question.Josie immediately pursed her lips. It would be a lie if she said that she wasn¡¯t curious.


    Room 602 was in the farthest corner of the corridor. Arnold stepped forward, swiped the keycard, and the door automatically opened.


    Inside, it was quiet and peaceful, which left Josie somewhat flustered as she followed behind him.The room wasn¡¯trge. Arnold took a few steps beforeing to a halt. He let out a scoff. ¡°So, this is how it is.¡±


    Josie looked over, only to be taken aback by the sight of a woman, aged over fifty, sitting on the ground, her face etched with despair. In her arrns, she cradled a pile of shattered photographs.


    Had the woman not lifted her head, Josie would not have recognized her at all. She was Xanthe, who once possessed an unparalleled elegance.


    Xanthe also recognized them. ¡°How did you all get here?¡±


    Arnold pulled out a chair and sat down directly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be enjoying your retirement in Wavery? What happened? Did your son bring you here to live a life of luxury?¡±


    He was quite eloquent. Every word he spoke was as sharp as a knife.


    Xanthe red at him, her eyes filled with resentment. ¡°You once promised me you¡¯d keep me safe for a lifetime.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I manage to do it? You¡¯re still alive, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Xanthe gritted her teeth. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have listened to you in the first ce!¡±


    ¡°It was your own choice. There¡¯s no room for regret.¡±


    Xanthe closed her eyes, covering her face as she began to sob softly.


    Josie stood to the side, observing the scene unfold before her like an outsider. She was filled with an indescribable emotion.


    She bent down, picking up the shattered photo from the ground. Despite its condition, one could vaguely make out that it was a picture of a man.

 Chapter 1173

    Josie¡¯s voice was barely audible as she asked, ¡°Who is this?¡±


    Xanthe wouldn¡¯t respond to her at the moment, but Arnold recognized it with just one nce. ¡°Her son. He¡¯s in poor health. From this photo, he seems to be at death¡¯s door.¡±


    Evidently, he wasn¡¯t referring to Dexter, but to her other son who resided abroad.


    Arnold saw her confusion. ¡°Don¡¯t you know Xanthe has another son, named Brodie Quorn? He was born with a congenital heart disease and has been raised overseas since childhood, relying on hospitals to sustain his life.¡±


    Josie only knew that besides Dexter, she had another son, but she was unclear about the rest.


    Arnold added nonchntly, ¡°She could be considered a devoted mother. For the sake of her son, she ran hither and thither, even returning to the country to seek help from her long-abandoned elder son. She asked him for money, for medical resources. Unfortunately, her time was short. She hurt you, and Dexter cut off all her financial resources, forcing her toe to me for help.¡± He smiled. ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy. I remember back then, I gave you a substantial amount of money. Didn¡¯t that even save your son?¡±


    Xanthe slumped to the ground, her tears fallinguncontrobly. ¡°Dexter is a madman. He cut off Brodie¡¯s medical resources, leaving him to lie at home, waiting for death.¡±


    Hurting a person was never about harming them directly, but rather, it was about hurting those they cared about the most. Dexter understood this clearly. The person Xanthe cared about the most was Brodie.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for him, I wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this. I should never have given birth to him in the first ce.¡± Xanthe shook her head continuously, filled with regret.


    Josie crouched down and looked at her in disbelief. ¡°Xanthe, do you really have no sympathy for me even now?¡±


    It was only then that Xanthe really looked at her. ¡°You? After I took your father away, I treated him well and provided him with good food and drink. You can ask your father. He even became friends with me. In what way have I wronged you that you have Dexter take revenge on me like this? You¡¯re a wicked and cruel woman!¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but be emotional. ¡°That¡¯s because my father didn¡¯t know your true colors! We couldn¡¯t find him anywhere in the city. He was with you, Xanthe. That¡¯s my father. What if it was your son who went missing? What would you think then?¡±


    The anger on Xanthe¡¯s face gradually subsided ¡°Hah¡­ He has already disappeared.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows in surprise.


    Just an hour ago, Dexter had stood there, telling her that she would never see Brodie again in her lifetime.


    ¡°I can assure you, he won¡¯t die. He will be living well somewhere in this world. However, you will never have the chance to see him again.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Xanthe wished she could tear Dexter apart. ¡°You ungrateful child! You can¡¯t treat me like this! You can¡¯t treat me this way for a woman! That¡¯s your younger brother!¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Dexter stood unmoving for a long time. Only when she had exhausted herself did he softly ask, ¡°Have you ever considered me as your son?¡±


    Xanthe froze in ce.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been using me from the beginning until the end, haven¡¯t you? You never intended to make things easy for me.¡± Dexter looked on with cold indifference. He picked up the photo Xanthe used to remember her son from the table, tearing it into pieces bit by bit. ¡°He truly deserves to die.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Xanthe cried out. She tilted her head back, watching the shattered photo fluttering down, and in her moment of despair, she pleaded, ¡°Don¡¯t treat me like this.¡±

 Chapter 1174

    With a swift move, Xanthe stepped forward, clutching the leg of Dexter¡¯s trousers. ¡°He can¡¯tpare to you. You were pampered by your grandfather since childhood and cared for by servants. But Brodie grew up experiencing hardships from a young age. He¡¯s been sick and has been taking medicine since he was a child. He knows he has a brother, and every day he tells me how much he wants to meet you. Dexter, he¡¯s your younger brother. Direct any grievances you have toward me. I will bear them. Please, I beg you, don¡¯t treat him this way.¡±


    In a fleeting moment, Dexter saw the maternal love radiating from her. However, it was directed toward someone else.


    A flicker of pain shed across his eyes. He gazed at her for a long time. ¡°Have you ever regretted it?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Have you ever regretted leaving me behind in the first ce?¡±


    Xanthe hadn¡¯t forgotten the child who had once cried in the rain. Yet, as she recalled her state of mind at that time, she felt no regret. ¡°I was so oppressed in Russell Mansion. When your father died, all I felt was relief. I was desperate to leave, Dexter, can you understand me? I had no choice but to leave you behind.¡±


    Dexter probably heard it clearly. He closed his eyes, a subtle pain uncontrobly surfacing in his heart.


    He lifted his leg, striding outward. Xanthe shouted, ¡°No, I regret it, Dexter! Listen to me, I regret it!¡±


    Josie crouched down, almost able to envision Dexter¡¯s disappointment at that moment.


    She stood up. ¡°You are not worthy of being a mother.¡±


    ¡°What right do you have to judge me? If it weren¡¯t for you, none of this would have happened, you witch!¡± Xanthe lunged at Josie, pping her fiercely.


    With quick reflexes, Arnold swiftly pulled Josie away.


    Josie fell to the ground, but she didn¡¯t struggle. Instead, she looked at Xanthe and said, ¡°You know, I have a child now.¡±


    Xanthe¡¯s eyes widened.


    ¡°You once told me to have a child to secure my position in the Russell family. You didn¡¯t expect it, did you? I really do have a child now.¡± Facing Xanthe¡¯s astonishment, Josie continued, ¡°The child is Dexter¡¯s. Now that I¡¯m a mother, I believe I could never abandon my own child. Therefore, I can¡¯tprehend your actions. Allthe pain and regret you¡¯re feeling now is because your youngest son is suffering. Not a single bit of it is for Dexter. The first time I saw him, he was sitting in the rain, crying as he watched your car drive away. I will remember that image for a lifetime.¡±


    A sense of vulnerability started to surface on Xanthe¡¯s face.


    ¡°Even though I detest Dexter just as much as you do, I actually feel quite sorry for him for having a mother like you.¡±


    Having said that, Josie rose to her feet and walked straight out.


    Arnold quickly caught up. ¡°Sympathy may not be a good thing. It can lead to love.¡±


    Josie was not in a good mood. She quickened her pace. ¡°You¡¯re no saint either, so stop ying the good guy here.¡±


    Arnold closely followed her. ¡°You don¡¯t hate Xanthe anymore? I thought you would take action, given such a good opportunity.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that there was no resentment, but rather, there was no desire.


    Dexter had exacted the best revenge for her. The inner turmoil they both felt was undoubtedly immense. Josie felt that this was enough.


    Confronted with Arnold¡¯s incessant chatter, Josie suddenly halted in her tracks.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

 Chapter 1175

    His footsteps also came to an abrupt halt.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten the reason Xanthe did this was because of you?¡± The resentment in Josie¡¯s eyes did not diminish. ¡°She¡¯s gone. You¡¯re next.¡±


    Arnold was somewhat serious earlier, but then he smiled faintly right then. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for your revenge.¡±


    Josie red at him, taking the lead to leave by the elevator. Once outside, she hailed a taxi.Throughout the journey, she strived to calm her emotions.


    Didn¡¯t he say he had official business to attend to? Why would hee to a hotel? Is it because of what he said?


    ¡°I want to lessen your hatred toward me.¡±


    Josie¡¯s mind was in a whirl, so much so that she didn¡¯t even realize when she had reached her destination. The driver called out to her, ¡°Miss, we¡¯ve arrived.¡±


    She turned her head. It was dusk at that moment. The flowers in the courtyard were all in bloom, bathed in the sunset¡¯s glow, exudingan endless warmth.


    Meanwhile, Dexter had already returned home. He sat off to the side, watching with a hint of a smile as Grape yed on the ground.


    It was impossible to tell that not long ago, he had endured the pain of a falling out with his mother.


    Does he feel pain? Josie suddenly found herself somewhat confused.The driver called out again, and only then did Josie hand over the money and get out of the car.


    ¡°Look who¡¯s back! It¡¯s Mommy!¡± Laura¡¯s voice was gentle.Grape threw herself into Josie¡¯s arms. ¡°Mommy, you¡¯re finally back. I missed you so much.¡±


    Josie smiled. ¡°Who tied the braid on your head?¡±


    ¡°It was Aunt Laura.¡± She pointed at Laura.


    Laura sat next to Dexter. ¡°ording to seniority, calling me this way should be correct.¡±


    Josie gave a smile. ¡°It¡¯s very beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Mommy, I like Aunt Laura. She¡¯s very beautiful.¡±


    Laura felt a bit embarrassed, as it was her firsttime encountering such a child who was so fixated on appearances.


    ¡°More beautiful than me?¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Mommy is even more beautiful.¡±


    The crowd was all amused and burst intoughter.


    When Josie looked up again, she was startled to find that Dexter was no longer where he had been. For a moment, she was unsure of how to face him.


    It seemed he had no intention of telling her about Xanthe.


    Later on, Laura bid farewell to Josie, preparing to leave. Grape was somewhat reluctant to part with Laura. She tugged at her skirt, unwilling to let her go.


    Laura stood at the doorway, her expression a mix ofughter and tears. ¡°Would you like to go to the amusement park the next time Ie and see you?¡±


    Just at that moment, a car drove up. It was Morgan returning, and this scene unfolded before his eyes..


    He rolled down the car window, and Grape greeted, ¡°Mr. Bastille!¡±


    A shiver ran down Laura¡¯s spine. She slowly turned around, bumping straight into Morgan. A hint of a smile yed at the corners of his mouth as he waved his hand in greeting.


    ¡°Grape.¡±


    With a stiff smile, Laura said to Josie, ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving first then. I¡¯lle again next time.¡±


    ¡°Be careful on the road.¡±


    The two cars brushed past each other.Morgan¡¯s car remained stationary. He leaned on the car window with one hand, seemingly a bit weary.


    Upon seeing him like this, Josie let out a sigh. ¡°Where did you go?¡±


    ¡°There was a social event. I had quite a lot of alcohol.¡±


    ¡°What? Does the Bastille family still rely on you to handle their social drinking engagements?¡±


    ¡°I want to since you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Say goodbye to Mr. Bastille,¡± Josie instructed Grape, lowering her head.


    With a faint smile, Morgan drove into his own home.


    The mansion was exceptionally quiet this evening. Grape, tired from ying, had gone to sleep early. In the entire house, only the light in the study remained on.


    After some thought, Josie finally decided to enter Paul¡¯s room.


    Paul hadn¡¯t yet retired for the night. He sat on the bed, cradling a red box in his arms, rummaging for something within it.


    ¡°Pop, what are you looking for?¡±

 Chapter 1176

    ¡°Photos, photos,¡± Paul muttered, unable to recognize who was before him.


    Josie stepped forward, noticing a stack of documents in the red box. Below them were various trinkets, and even a medical license. She was somewhat taken aback, as she remembered leaving these items in Mason Garden back in Wavery.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Thest time she saw them was when she was finalizing her divorce from Dexter.


    Why are they here?


    Paul continued to mutter about a photo. Josie grabbed his hand. ¡°What photo? Tell me about it.¡±


    ¡°A photo of Jo with her hair braided,¡± Paul replied very seriously. ¡°I can¡¯t lose it¡­¡±


    Josie paused. She roughly knew which photo Paul was referring to. She took out her phone, removed the phone case, and there it was, the tiny photo hidden underneath. Ever since she left two years ago, she had always carried it with her.


    ¡°Is this the one?¡± she asked, spreading it open in her palm.


    Paul¡¯s eyes lit up as he immediately grabbed the photo, clutching it tightly in his hand. ¡°It¡¯s Jo. I¡¯ve found her!¡±


    Afterward, he looked up, only to see Josie, whose face was full of sorrow. He froze. ¡°Are you¡­ Are you Jo?¡±


    Even though it was a question, it nearly brought Josie to tears. ¡°Do you recognize me now?¡±


    Even though she knew that Paul¡¯s moments of lucidity were fleeting, she still held onto a sliver of hope. She grasped Paul¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s me, Jo from the photo. Do you recognize me?¡±


    Paul nced at the photo, then back at her, struggling to recognize her. He then tightly gripped her hand. ¡°Jo, have you returned from university for the holidays?¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression froze on her face. She took a deep breath, realizing something she should have known long ago.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m back for the holidays. I can spend quality time with you.¡±


    ¡°With me? Do you have enough money? How about you go on a trip? If you don¡¯t have enough, I¡¯ll give you some more.¡± Paul spoke cautiously, fearful of being overheard. ¡°I¡¯ve been secretly working an extra job without telling your mother. I haven¡¯t handed in this sry. It¡¯s all for you.¡±


    His face was filled with tenderness.


    Josie was on the verge of tears again. ¡°Thankyou, Pop.¡±


    Paul was almost entranced as he gazed at her face, his eyes slightly open. ¡°Why do you look so pale? Have you been overworking yourself at school?¡±


    Josie forced out a smile. ¡°A little. Pop, what would you do if someone hurt me?¡±


    Paul said sternly, ¡°Of course, I would fight for you. Who is it? Who hurt you? Is it that boyfriend you¡¯ve been talking about? I¡¯ve said it before, he¡¯s not from our world! I¡¯ll go find him.¡±


    At least, he still remembers Morgan.Josie was caught betweenughter and tears. She bent down to hug Paul. ¡°So, if anyone dares to bully you, I¡¯ll fight them to the end as well.¡±


    Paul wore a look of bewilderment. Josie pulled out a tissue, gently wiping his eyes and the corners of his mouth, before slowly asking, ¡°Pop, do you think those without mothers are pitiful?¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected him to respond, yet he seriously said, ¡°They are.¡±


    ¡°I, too, have no mother, yet I don¡¯t feel sorry for myself.¡±


    For the majority of her life, she had not experienced maternal love. Even after learningthat udia was her mother, she had no intention of interacting with her much.


    Paulughed and teased her for being forgetful, ¡°That¡¯s because I yed the roles of both father and mother, have you forgotten?¡±


    Josie smiled, then suddenly remembered that Dexter had lost his father at a very young age. At the same time, he was also without a mother, with only his grandfather providing him with boundless love.


    Now, his grandfather had also passed away.

 Chapter 1177

    After a moment of contemtion, Paul said, ¡°Actually, whether one has parents or not isn¡¯t important. What¡¯s truly important is whether there is love.¡±


    Some parents gave birth to children, only to let them suffer in this world.


    Josie¡¯s smile was somewhat strained. She didn¡¯t know why, but even though she hadn¡¯t seen how Dexter had spoken those words to Xanthe, she could imagine his feelings at that time.


    Paul held her hand, rambling on and on with his words. Finally, unable to hold on any longer, he fell asleep.


    Josie tucked him in, then she opened the drawer. The medicine Arnold had given her was now down to just three pills.


    She closed her eyes, clutching the transparent bag tightly, and returned it to its original ce.


    The study¡¯s light was still on, showing no signs of being turned off.


    By now, Josie¡¯s legs had regained enough strength to climb up and down the stairs, albeit slowly. As a result, her footsteps were quite soft. She approached the study, the door was ajar. As soon as she stepped in, she heard the sound of a telephone ringing from within.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, mypany is on the verge of defaulting on its loan. We need funds to keep the projects running. Bank of Wavery is pressuring us relentlessly. If things continue this way, I might just jump off a building. You can¡¯t just stand by and watch me perish!¡±


    Dexter sat in the shadows, a ss of whiskey by his side, its potent aroma wafting through the air.


    He heard a sound and looked toward her.


    Josie pursed her lips, signaling him to first deal with the matter at hand.


    Dexter was still looking at her as he said into the phone, ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Zachariah.¡±


    A sigh of relief was immediately heard over the phone. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Russell. Once thepany ovees this crisis, I will work tirelessly to repay you!¡±


    Dexter hung up and gently tossed his phone onto the table.


    Only then did Josie say, ¡°With just one sentence, you¡¯re cing a lot of pressure on Zachariah. Is the other party¡¯s position that significant?¡±


    Dexter slid his chair, facing her, ¡°The middleman who monopolized most of the projects in Wavery, has some connections withthe local government. We can¡¯t ignore that.¡±


    ¡°I heard that you¡¯ve taken over Rivodia-Wavery border. Did it not affect Mr. Dalton and the others?¡±


    She had heard this piece of news today at thedining table, mentioned by those higher-ups. At that time, Arnold¡¯s expression looked extremely unpleasant.


    ¡°If they can¡¯t win using legitimate tactics, then they would inevitably resort to underhanded methods sooner orter. Whether it would have any impact or not is a matter for the future.¡±


    Dexter wore a faint expression, with only the strong scent of alcohol permeating the air.


    Josie hesitated slightly, recalling the scene at the dinner table. After the higher-ups had finished speaking, Arnold immediately raised his ss to clink with Josie¡¯s. His tone was peculiarly sarcastic as he said, ¡°Mr. Russell, you¡¯ve truly made a grand gesture out of anger for your beloved. Quite the magnanimous act.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t be bothered to pay him any attention.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Dexter stared at her, seemingly perceiving her hesitation, and responded directly, ¡°It¡¯s because of you.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow in response.


    ¡°But you needn¡¯t feel burdened. Those who hurt me must pay the price. Don¡¯t think that I¡¯m trying to please you or anything.¡± He paused for a moment to choose his words carefully. He simply decided to do something because someone had hurt her.


    He wasn¡¯t sure if Josie had understood him, but she nodded anyway. A brief silence fell between the two.


    After Dexter had a drink, a hint of redness appeared in the corners of his eyes. As he looked up at her, he strangely resembled a puppy, which made Josie want to reach out and pat his head.


    Realizing this thought, Josie quickly changed the subject and said, ¡°The police¡¯s end-of-the- month operation against Vipera has already been exposed. There¡¯s a high chance it could be a trap.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Dexter furrowed his brows and rose to his feet. ¡°Who told you this?¡±


    ¡°At the dining table, the higher-up of Rivodia said it himself, with Arnold right beside him.¡±

 Chapter 1178

    Dexter was watching her.


    In the end, Josie came clean, ¡°What Arnold meant was he will no longer provide me with medicine if you make a move.¡±


    Upon understanding, Dexter slightly bowed his body, filling up the ss with wine as he asked, ¡°Knowing I would make a move, why did you still tell me?¡±


    Even Josie herself didn¡¯t know how to respond. Indeed, she could act as a double agent, secretly serving Arnold while keeping Dexter in the dark. This way, the chances of obtaining the medicine would have been greater.


    ¡°Those goods are likely to devastate countless families. I didn¡¯t want to see that happen. If Paul were awake, he wouldn¡¯t have let me do this either,¡± Josie responded earnestly.


    It was not so much about being noble. Since her family had fallen apart, she simply felt that she shouldn¡¯t ignore someone in need for her own benefit.


    There was admiration in Dexter¡¯s tone as he asked, ¡°Have you ever thought about why those higher-ups would reveal their ns in front of Arnold? Haven¡¯t they ever doubted this apparent ¡®Robyn¡¯?¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie was taken aback. It was indeed strange. Wavery held Arnold in highregard, so it was impossible that they hadn¡¯t given him a heads up in advance.


    ¡°Why? Are you suggesting that there are moles among the higher-ups, deliberately leaking information about Vipera, to put it on alert?¡±


    Dexter took a sip of his wine and said, ¡°It¡¯s too early to draw conclusions now.¡±


    ¡°Would you take action, then?¡±


    In fact, the dilemma had now fallen squarely on Dexter. Once he made a move, Josie would be exposed, and Arnold¡¯s probing would seed.


    ¡°Do you want to make a move?¡± he asked all of a sudden, his eyes bright after having a drink, as he looked at her.


    Josie furrowed her brows, momentarily at a loss. ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°The answer is right here.¡±


    Josie was puzzled, and as their eyes met, she realized what he meant. ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±


    He tilted his head back to finish his drink, gently cing the empty ss on the table as he said, ¡°The specifics need to be discussed with Scott and others. You need not worry. This matter will be resolved to the greatest extent possible.¡±


    Josie withdrew her gaze, deciding that theconversation should end here. However, as she turned to leave, she suddenly stopped and asked, ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s action of pouring the wine also came to a halt, as if he didn¡¯tprehend the meaning behind her words.


    ¡°Does it hurt, having personally sent your own birth mother to her death?¡±


    As she asked this question, Josie¡¯s eyes were filled with heartache and sympathy.The veins on the back of his hand, clutching the cup, bulged out as he asked, ¡°How did you know?¡±


    ¡°Arnold saw you and insisted that we go in to find out what was happening,¡± Josie answered truthfully.


    Josie waspletely face to face with him as she continued, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, you really didn¡¯t have to go to such lengths for me. But since things have already been set in stone, I figured you probably had your own difficulties too. Dexter, I should say thank you, and I¡¯m sorry, we can¡¯t go back anymore.¡±


    This was indeed a barefaced answer. Josie had originally nned to discuss it after the contract ended in a hundred days, but now she had no choice but to speak up.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Dexter¡¯s eyes turned a rapid crimson, his concern deepening at hertter words. ¡°Why bring this up all of a sudden?¡±


    ¡°I felt that you¡¯ve misunderstood our rtionship, thinking we could reconcile, but we can¡¯t anymore.¡±


    No sooner had the words left her lips, than Dexter abruptly reached out, pulling her into his embrace. He forced her to tilt her head back and meet his gaze, his teeth gritted in frustration as he asked, ¡°What exactly did Arnold tell you?¡±


    Josie took a deep breath and replied, ¡°He didn¡¯t. The main point is-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it,¡± Dexter interrupted her directly.


    Josie remained silent, unable to utter a word.


    After a long silence, Dexter asked with a hoarse voice, ¡°Why can¡¯t we reconcile? From the beginning to the end, there has never been anyone else in my heart, let alone physically. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Mr. Peeple or even Moses-¡±


    Josie felt that he was bing somewhat morbid, so she interrupted him by saying, ¡°It¡¯s not because of that.¡±


    ¡°Then why?¡± His grip on her arm tightened.

 Chapter 1179

    Josie didn¡¯t know how to respond. There was a hint of helplessness in her tone as she said, ¡°Some people simply can¡¯t go back to the past.¡±


    ¡°Then we won¡¯t go back! You didn¡¯t like who l was before, right? I won¡¯t go back, then!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. What I¡¯m trying to say is, the love we once shared can¡¯t be reimed. I am no longer fervently devoted to you.¡±


    This response caused Dexter¡¯s actions to momentarily slow down. A rare vulnerability appeared in his eyes as he softly asked, ¡°You don¡¯t love me anymore, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I don¡¯t love you anymore.¡±


    Even with such a response, Dexter still didn¡¯t believe it. ¡°Look into my eyes and tell me you don¡¯t love me anymore,¡± he said.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°I don¡¯t love you anymore.¡±


    ¡°Say it again.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t love you anymore.¡±


    ¡°Say it again.¡±


    Before Josie could finish her sentence, Dexterpletely lost control. He leaned in, pulling her into his embrace, unable to suppress histrembling as he said, ¡°But I still love you.¡±


    The grip was unyieldingly strong, causing Josie to suffocate, unable to break free.


    A whirlwind of emotions swirled within her heart, she could truly feel that she still held a ce in his heart.


    The taste of alcohol was too strong, almost invading her heart, leaving her breathless. She tried to speak, ¡°Dexter-¡±


    ¡°Josie, do you remember the first time I asked you to marry me, several years ago?¡± he asked.


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°Yes, I remember.¡±


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t our first time meeting each other.¡±


    She was somewhat taken aback. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°When I first took over Russell Group, I had already met you. You must have been in university at the time. Your father had an incident, crying over the phone, but after the tears, heughed and told himself that everything would be all right.¡±


    He chose his words carefully as he continued, ¡°I was in a state of utter confusion at that time. Seeing you restored my confidence, so whether you were Liana or Josie, you¡¯ve saved me countless times. I can¡¯t imagine how I wouldhave survived without you.¡±


    The weight of these words took Josie byplete surprise. She couldn¡¯t fathom that Dexter would ever reach a point where he couldn¡¯t go on because of someone. After all, this was Dexter, a top-tier master at weighing pros and cons, and yet, he had uttered such ¡°childish¡± words.


    Her heart felt increasingly suffocated.


    ¡°So, you no longer love me at all, huh? You find me annoying whenever you see me, right?¡± he asked softly.


    That hit Josie like a blow to the back of herhead, leaving her somewhat dazed. For reasons she couldn¡¯t fathom, her voice no longer held the certainty it had just moments before.


    She attempted to escape as she said, ¡°You are Grape¡¯s true father. From this perspective, I do not find you annoying.¡±


    In fact, without this identity, Josie didn¡¯t know what her feelings would be.


    When he heard it, he was indeed convinced.


    Upon understanding, Dexter released his grip, allowing her to leave. After a brief pause of two seconds, Josie btedly rose to her feet and left. Before shedeparted, she closed the door behind her. As the light and shadow converged, Dexter was left alone in the darkness.


    For a fleeting moment, she felt as though she couldn¡¯t bear it.


    Josie had never imagined she would suffer from insomnia. The following day, she was awakened by a noise. Upon opening the door, the servant apologized and said, ¡°We have guests over.¡±


    It was Scott and the others.


    Josie nodded, indicating that she understood.


    Scott¡¯s spirit was always strong. ¡°The goods from Vipera was transported from South East Aploth. Recently, Rivodia has been unstable, making it difficult to sell. Moreover, since you¡¯ve taken over the territory at Rivodia-Wavery border, all of Mr. Dalton¡¯s preparations have gone down the drain. He¡¯s in dire need of money now, which is why he¡¯s taking the risk to ship them out.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s energy and spirit were evidently not at their best. He sat on the sofa, relying on coffee for a boost. ¡°What¡¯s the quantity?¡± he asked.


    ¡°A ship.¡±

 Chapter 1180

    ¡°Which port are they departing from?¡±


    ¡°Primus Port. They have hidden the goods inside the onions.


    As Scott spoke those words, Josie happened to emerge from the bedroom. Her face was bare, and she was dressed in a simple nightgown, appearing gentle and serene. He hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°Sending Ms. Warren into battle on the ship? Wouldn¡¯t that be Inappropriate?¡±


    Josie turned his head, ¡°Sergeant Buncho, is it that youck confidence in me, or is it your colleagues you don¡¯t trust?¡±


    Scott chuckled. ¡°I am well aware of your capabilities, Ms. Warren. I¡¯m just being cautious, just in case.¡±


    Dexter never once lifted his head.


    Leaning halfway against the foyer between the kitchen and the living room, Josie said, ¡°I still have value to Arnold, so he wouldn¡¯t harm me. Under these circumstances, it¡¯s best if I go.¡±


    After saying that, she nced in the direction of Dexter, his expression unreadable, his emotions inscrutable. Only a bone-deep chill emanated from him.


    Scott indicated his understanding, then turned his gaze toward Dexter and asked, ¡°Mr. Russell,did you not rest wellst night?¡±


    Upon hearing this, a jolt of shock ran through Josie¡¯s heart.


    Dexter simply retrieved a pack of cigarettes from under the table, broke the seal, and said, ¡°Sergeant Buncho, please ask your colleagues in Wavery to call off the police dispatch.¡±


    Scott was taken aback. ¡°Why?¡±


    He held a cigarette between his lips, gesturing toward Josie as he replied, ¡°It would expose the undercover¡¯s identity.¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, indeed, if Arnold knew about the police in Wavery, he would certainly suspect her.


    Scott nced at Josie, btedly understanding what he meant. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go back and report this. I¡¯llmunicate with my colleagues in Rivodia.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that. There¡¯s no need to alert them. I trust them,¡± Josie said.Dexter had already lit his cigarette, his eyes Indifferent. They both understood what it meant.


    Once the news was leaked, it was highly likely to alert the enemy.


    Seeing Scott still doubtful, Dexter finally said, ¡°I will have someone follow her, so nothing will go wrong.


    It wasn¡¯t clear how long Justin had been listening on the stairs, but he quickly descended and said, ¡°Let me go! I understand Arnold¡¯s subordinates, so I can handle this.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Josie immediately objected. ¡°No way.¡±


    ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Anyone could do it, but not you.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Justin was clearly not convinced. He directly faced Dexter as he asked, ¡°Tell me, will you let me go or not?¡±


    Dexter exhaled a puff of smoke, with Josie standing in front of him. ¡°What he says about your matters is irrelevant. It¡¯s only when I speak that it matters. If I say no, then it¡¯s a no.¡±


    ¡°My leg has already healed!¡±


    Justin initially thought it was due to his injury.


    ¡°You¡¯re a familiar face to Arnold, so it¡¯s easy for you to be exposed. I forbid you to go,¡± Dexter said indifferently, flicking off the ash from his cigarette with his fingers.


    ¡°In terms of strength and experience, I am the most qualified. If not me, then who? Who couldprotect Josie better than me?¡± Justin retorted.


    Dexter slightly lifted his eyes, the azure depths fully revealed as he said, ¡°There will be a suitable candidate.¡±


    Josie¡¯s figure swayed slightly, not quite understanding. He firstforted Justin, ¡°Grape needs someone to look after her at home, and there¡¯s also Paul. They can¡¯t do without you.¡±


    Her gentle and calm approach finally improved Justin¡¯s mood. He gritted his teeth and told Dexter, ¡°You better ensure she returns unharmed.¡±


    Scott chuckled. ¡°It seems you really care about your sister.¡±


    Josie watched Justin leisurely, he was just like that, sharp-tongued but soft-hearted.


    As he finished his cigarette, Larry arrived just in time. He hesitated at the door, waiting for the group to finish their discussion, appearing quite anxious.


    It was not until Josie went to hold the just- awakened Grape that Larry hastily entered.

 Chapter 1181

    ¡°Sir, I¡¯ve brought the medicine.¡± Larry, who had been incessantly keeping an eye towards the direction of the bedroom, feltpelled to voice his concern, ¡°Even if it¡¯s all for the sake of the-little one, you really ought to pay some attention to your well-being.¡±


    Dexter, his gaze fixated on the cigarette that was burning slowly between his fingers, responded in a dismissive tone, ¡°I¡¯m not at death¡¯s door yet.¡±


    Larry, at a loss for words, continued, ¡°Mr. Barrett has made his way back to Wavery. We¡¯re still in the dark about the investigation¡¯s findings, but he¡¯s got wind from his connections that Charles is perfectly fine and out of harm¡¯s way.¡±


    This news seemed to lift a weight off Dexter¡¯s shoulders. With a sense of relief, he closed his eyes momentarily and remarked, ¡°The moment Charles shows his face, you can bet Mark will be on our doorstep, loaded with questions.¡±


    ¡°Think we ought to send someone over to give him a gentle nudge?¡± Larry pondered aloud.


    Meanwhile, when little Grape stirred awake, craving her milk, Josie began to hum a soft melody to calm her, her actions in preparing her bottle both skilled and fluid. Dexter turned his attention away, indicating, ¡°No, let hime to us with his questions.¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you nning to-¡±


    ¡°What if something happened to me?¡± he casually threw in, ament that notably unnerved Larry.


    This prompted thetter to quickly reassure in a whisper, ¡°As long as you keep yourself in one piece, nothing dire will transpire. After all, we¡¯ve struck a solid deal with Wavery.¡±


    A ghost of a smile yed on Dexter¡¯s lips, yet it was devoid of any real joy, leaving one to ponder over his true thoughts.


    Construction was back in full swing over in La Oriele, with Alice and Jade taking up temporary residence in Rivodia to supervise the ongoing work. During one of Josie¡¯s visits, she thoughtfully brought along Grape.


    Having not stepped out in quite some time, she was captivated by the freshness of her surroundings. Jade took the lead, guiding her around the bustling construction site, both of them indulging in a moment of carefree exploration.


    ¡°Do you reckon we can wrap this up in two months?¡± Josie inquired.


    Alice nced over, estimating, ¡°I¡¯d say about a month and a half, give or take. The push from the higher-ups is pretty intense. You¡¯d almost think we were in a rush for reincarnation.¡±


    Josie let out a light chuckle, adding, ¡°Given that La Oriele rakes in millions a day, it¡¯s no wonder the top brass are itching to get things moving.¡±


    The scene around them was a hive of activity as if this ce was immune to adversity.


    ¡°Grape!¡± A call rang clearly across the room, unmistakably from Laura. She had dropped by the studio to check in on the team, her assistantden with an assortment of goodies.


    Crouching down, Laura gently cradled the little girl in her arms.


    ¡°Aunt Laura!¡± Josie greeted her with a warm smile.


    Curious, Josie inquired, ¡°Has Laura been stopping by regrly during this stretch?¡±


    ¡°Exactly, she¡¯s been utterly devoted to this project,¡± was the response.


    Laura, holding Grape, beamed, ¡°See what I¡¯ve brought you!¡±


    Josie watched the scene unfold, a bit overwhelmed by the sudden rush of memories. Thest update from Mallory had confirmed that the person on suspension was indeed Rachel, who was not only still in Rivodia but also working for Arnold. However, Josie couldn¡¯t wrap her head around why Laura was at that club.


    With no clear answers, she resigned herself to the possibility that she was just overthinking things.


    Yet; uponying eyes on Laura, a flood of memories came rushing back.


    As Josie¡¯s gaze shifted away, she suddenly stopped in her tracks. At a nearby intersection, a group approached, led by none other than Arnold, who sported sunsses and briefly nced their way before a staff member ushered him inside.


    Josie exchanged nods with Alice, following the movement instinctively.


    Arnold was there to inspect the site¡¯s progress. epting a safety helmet from a staff member, he made his rounds across the site.


    ¡°Mr. Mills, the crew has been working overtime. We¡¯re on track to resume full operations very soon,¡± a staff member reported.


    Without a word, Arnoldpleted his tour and returned to find Josie standing off to the side, prompting a scoff and a dismissive gesture toward the others.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°What¡¯s this? Decided toe and see your handiwork?¡±


    Josie, leaning casually with a mischievous grin, replied, ¡°I was just hoping, Mr. Mills, that youmight cut me a deal when La Oriele swings its doors open again.¡±


    Arnold, gesturing toward the exit, questioned, ¡°Is this the ce for you? Isn¡¯t your kid still on the bottle?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Josie eximed, caught off guard by the remark.

 Chapter 1182

    Arnold offered a smile that seemed more like a veiled threat than a friendly gesture, ¡°I just caught a glimpse of your little one. As adorable as the photos suggested, with eyes that mirror yours.¡±


    The words struck Josie as an unmistakable threat, igniting a fierce re from her as she muttered under her breath, ¡°Dare toy a finger on her, and you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    Arnold, however, appeared to ignore her words, continuing with an air of entitlement, ¡°Given the family ties, she really ought to be calling me ¡®mister.¡¯ I¡¯ve been back on home turf for a while, so it¡¯s high time I presented her with a proper wee gift. Lead the way; I want to meet her.¡±


    Downstairs, Laura was caught up in conversation with Grape when Josie obstructed. Arnold¡¯s view. With a determined tone, she addressed him, ¡°Arnold, the child has done nothing wrong. If you¡¯ve got a beef with anyone, take it up with me. Leave my child out of your machinations.¡±


    Her bravery seemed to envelop her with the aura of motherhood. Arnold paused, a hint of reminiscence in his gaze, before abruptly changing the subject, ¡°You were but a little girl when we first crossed paths.¡±


    Josie turned away, refusing to engage further in this unsettling dialogue. As she began her descent down the stairs, Arnold couldn¡¯t helpbut probe about a sensitive topic, ¡°You haven¡¯t spoken to Dexter about that incident, have you?¡±


    He was alluding to the unnerving episode involving Vipera.


    Josie pressed her lips tightly together before replying with a simple, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s probably for the best,¡± he noted.


    Turning back toward him, Josie implored with a sense of desperation, ¡°Promise me something. Once all of this is over, you¡¯ll keep supplying the medicine.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s response was delivered with a carefree smile, ¡°Of course, no problem at all.¡±


    All the way home, Josie couldn¡¯t shake off the unease that clung to her following Arnold¡¯s unexpected appearance.


    ¡°Mommy, you seem distant. What¡¯s on your mind? I¡¯ve been trying to get your attention,¡± Grape expressed, her face etching a look of slight distress as she soughtfort in her mother¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Sorry, Grape. Would you mind repeating what you just said?¡± Josie requested, making an effort to shake off her worries and adopt a more tender demeanor.


    ¡°I was saying how much I really liked Aunt Laura. She¡¯s always been so nice to me.¡±


    Josie let out a soft chuckle, ¡°And what about Ms: Whiteford? Don¡¯t you care for her as much anymore?¡±


    ¡°I do hold a special ce for Ms. Whiteford, but she hardly ever visits or spends time with me,¡± Grape responded.


    In the innocent eyes of a child, those who make time for them are cherished the most.


    Upon their return to the mansion, several pairs of shoes scattered across the foyer caught Josie¡¯s attention. She inquired, upon entering, to Justin, ¡°Who¡¯s visited us?¡±


    As Justin took over Grape, he hinted with a tight-lipped expression, ¡°Seems to be one of the underlings.¡±


    They made their way to the study to delve into their discussion.


    Approaching the study, Josie could overhear a discussion unfolding within, ¡°Our inside source has reported that Vipera¡¯s operations have extended to Wavery. They¡¯ve suddenly pulled ten cash counters from Bank of Wavery. It looks like this ship is doomed to sink sooner orter.¡±


    Then, Dexter¡¯s voice emerged, albeit with aweary tone, ¡°There¡¯s a railway renovation underway in Rivodia facing a shortfall of four hundred million. If Mr. Dalton is out of the picture, that gap could easily be bridged. Quite a strategic move.¡±


    ¡°But, is sess guaranteed?¡±


    The room fell into a momentary silence.


    The recollection of encountering Arnold earlier that day shed through Josie¡¯s mind. It struck her that Arnold¡¯s visit to the construction site wasn¡¯t just a casual drop-by; it felt more like a deliberate distraction.


    Her heart raced as she pushed the door open, stepping into the room to the surprise of everyone present. Without hesitation, she blurted out, ¡°I just¡­ I just ran into Arnold.¡±


    The room went quiet, the sudden revtion leaving everyone momentarily speechless.


    Directing her focus to Dexter, Josie spected, ¡°Could it be that the shipment scheduled for the end of the month was a decoy? Perhaps Mr. Dalton caught wind of some rumors and decided to act preemptively.¡±


    The revtion seemed to stir Dexter from his contemtions.


    Furrowing his brows, he stood up, quickly making a decision. On his way out, heinstructed Larry, ¡°Get on the line with Moses. I need him to rally our guys and head to the docks, stat.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    The evening was setting in, the skyline painted with hues of the fading sun. Josie hastened to match Dexter¡¯s pace as he took it upon himself to drive. Climbing into the passenger seat, she insisted, ¡°Let mee with you.¡±


    After a brief moment of consideration, Dexter pressed the elerator.


    Yet, Larry was outside, desperately knocking on the window, warning, ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous, Mr-¡±


    Ignoring the caution, Dexter elerated away, steering the vehicle onto the freeway.

 Chapter 1183

    With a look tinged with concern, Josie cast a nce over her shoulder, the question hanging in the air, ¡°You¡¯reing with me?¡±


    Dexter drove in silence, steering the car toward the dock¡¯s vicinity with a focused determination. Reaching for his phone, he swiftly keyed in a number and showed it to Josie, exining, ¡°This number puts you in touch with Rivodia¡¯s second-inmand, Lucas Yowell. He¡¯s reliable and can offer assistance when you find yourself in a tight spot.¡±


    Josie, mirroring his actions, fetched her own phone. Moses and the team quickly converged on their location, all dressed inconspicuously in everyday attire, blending seamlessly with the surroundings.


    Josie¡¯s expression betrayed her concern as she asked, ¡°And what about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right here, waiting,¡± Dexter replied, his face betraying no emotion. ¡°Mr. Vipera is one of Mr. Dalton¡¯s trusted old guards. He wouldn¡¯t be involved in daylight operations unless necessary. It¡¯s usible that the intel we got might be a decoy. If Arnold¡¯s as crafty as we suspect, then the real action¡¯s going to unfold right here.¡±


    The rivery ahead, dotted with severalrge. ships moored at a distance.


    Josie grasped the gravity of the situation just as she was about to exit the vehicle. Dexter suddenly halted her departure.


    Effortlessly, he popped open the car trunk and rummaged through, eventually handing her two objects. ¡°For protection.¡±


    She scrutinized the items, a sh of recognition in her eyes-a stark, ominous barrel stared back at her, a haunting echo of past encounters.


    Noticing her hesitation, Dexter, without a word, tucked one of the items securely behind her waist, cautioning, ¡°We¡¯re dealing with cornered foes; vignce is paramount.¡±


    In this proximity, the subtle signs of time on Dexter¡¯s features were unmistakable-the lines that now framed his eyes spoke volumes of the years that had passed. He was no longer the youthful figure of their earlier days.


    Josie nodded slightly, her mind wandering back, ¡°In the past, you would have never allowed me to face such danger.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s demeanor remained unflustered as he met her gaze. ¡°You¡¯vee into your own, strong and independent. A bird destined to soar can¡¯t remain caged forever, right?¡±


    Gaining Dexter¡¯s confidence was an aplishment in itself. Josie forced a small smile, acknowledging the sentiment.


    Dexter echoed the gesture, adding softly, ¡°I merely provided the wings.¡±


    There was an underlying tone of solitude in their exchange that Josie couldn¡¯t ignore. As she prepared to step out of the car, a concern surfaced, ¡°Are you¡­ Are you dealing with any health issues?¡±


    Dexter avoided a direct answer, merely brushing off her concern, ¡°You¡¯re reading too much into things, Josie.¡±


    With that, she bit back any further questions.


    As dusk transitioned to night, the docks thrummed with life. Josie found refuge in a secluded corner, observing Dexter¡¯s car standing still. Moses and the rest had dispersed, each embarking on their separate recon missions.


    The piercing sound of a whistle marked the beginning of their operation. Josie found herself lying low in a sandy patch, watching twoborers slowly make their way closer.


    Their conversation floated over,ced with exhaustion, ¡°This job¡¯s a killer, right before the holidays too. It¡¯s downright exhausting.¡±


    ¡°Comining? In our line of work, being alive is a luxury. Holidays shouldn¡¯t even be on your mind.¡±


    The more vocal of the two scanned the area with a telescope, his body adorned with various pieces of equipment.


    ¡°What¡¯s being loaded onto the ship doesn¡¯t look like standard cargo,¡± he observed.


    ¡°The shipment isn¡¯t here,¡± came the realization.


    A spark of rity hit Josie-if the ship wasn¡¯t transporting goods, then what was its cargo?N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    As the two drew nearer, she made a split- second decision, emerging from her hiding spot to incapacitate one with a swift kick. In the same fluid motion, she drew the concealed weapon and aimed it squarely at his head. Capitalizing on the momentary shock of the second man, she trained another gun on him.


    ¡°Bullets aren¡¯t discerning; I¡¯d think twice if I were you,¡± she warned, her words freezing them in ce, fear etching their faces.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± they managed to ask.


    ¡°Just passing through,¡± she replied nonchntly.


    Their skepticism was palpable. ¡°With everything that¡¯s going on today, you really think you can just interfere? What are you, some kind of cop?¡±


    Josie, now in full control, kept her weapontrained on them, pressing for answers, ¡°What¡¯s your business here?¡±


    Noticing one attempting to discreetly reach for something behind his back, possibly a pager, she didn¡¯t hesitate to intimidate, ¡°Seems you¡¯re not too attached to your hand.¡±

 Chapter 1184

    The man abruptly halted, opting instead to raise his hands high in a gesture of surrender, ¡°We¡¯re just here on patrol. As soon as we notice something out of the ordinary, we won¡¯t hesitate to report it to our superiors.¡±


    It was evident that Dexter¡¯s car, parked at a discreet distance, had gone unnoticed by them.


    ¡°Who¡¯s calling the shots for you guys?¡± Josie pressed, her tone sharp, the threat of the gun against their heads eliciting an involuntary shiver from both men.


    After a moment of hesitant eye contact between them, one stammered out, ¡°I-It¡¯s Robyn¡­¡±


    This admission made it clear that these two were merely foot soldiers in Arnold¡¯s operation, assigned to patrol rather than being trusted insiders; they didn¡¯t even know his true identity.


    ¡°What was supposed to be the shipment on those ships?¡± Josie inquired further.


    ¡°Cash¡­¡±


    Josie¡¯s gaze drifted back to therge vessels anchored in the river, as she contemted the vast amount of capital required for such an operation-a sum that would undoubtedly attract attention if moved through conventional banking channels.


    Arnold¡¯s personally escorting the shipment, huh?


    ¡°And what else?¡± she asked.


    The man¡¯s response came with a hint of desperation, his arms thrown up in a sign ofplete surrender, ¡°T-That¡¯s all I know. Mr. Mills wouldn¡¯t blink an eye at our lives. Even if you killed me, my lips are sealed.¡±


    Josie shared his sentiment. With a swift movement, she kicked away the pager that was still attached to his back, its screen glowing with an iing message. ¡°Answer it,¡± shemanded firmly.


    The pager came to life with a click, and immediately, a voice filled with urgency broke through, ¡°Arnold, it¡¯s not about Mr. Dalton¡¯s trust in you-it¡¯s that your presence is needed more here.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s voice, cool and detached, replied, ¡°It¡¯s just money we¡¯re talking about. What exactly do you want me to do with it? Aren¡¯t you concerned I might just pocket it myself?¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°You talking like that only serves to put distance between us. Mr. Dalton holds you in high esteem-no one can match up to you,¡± came the reassurance.


    ¡°Mr. Vipera, remind me, how long have you been with Mr. Dalton?¡± Arnold interjected, his voice carrying over the breeze.


    Vipera took a moment, then answered, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s been more than a decade now.¡±


    ¡°Loyal to the core, then?¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the same?¡±


    Arnold let out a lightugh in response.


    Subsequently, Vipera checked in via the pager, ¡°How¡¯s the patrol looking?¡±


    The two men nced at Josie, gauging her reaction before reluctantly answering, ¡°All clear, no issues on our end.¡±


    ¡°The smokescreen we nned for the end of the month hasn¡¯t unfolded yet. Dexter¡¯s sharp; he¡¯s always been on the radar of the higher-ups for his keen instincts. We¡¯ve got to tread lightly around him,¡± they reasoned among themselves.


    They¡¯re indeed guarding against Dexter.


    Josie remained vignt, silently forming her next question. The other individual voiced it for her, ¡°Mr. Vipera, are we really packing up to leave the country?¡±


    A hint of satisfaction crept into Vipera¡¯s tone, ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    Once the call ended, Josie unceremoniously stripped off their belts, using them to bind their arms together, and carefully stowed theirfirearms away.


    ¡°Who are you, really?¡± they questioned, still puzzled by Josie¡¯s presence and actions.


    Without altering her expression, Josie retrieved the fallenmunicator, retorting with a smirk, ¡°Didn¡¯t I already mention? The police.¡±


    Their skepticism was palpable. ¡°A woman like you, daring to step into this fray, must be connected to Dexter!¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help butugh at their guess, ¡°If you ever get another shot, go ahead and ask Mr. Mills.¡±


    Thinking Josie was Arnold¡¯s lover, the men scoffed, ¡°Mr. Mills has had his share of countless women. Don¡¯t kid yourself into thinking you¡¯re someone special in his eyes.¡±


    Josie feigned curiosity, ¡°Really now? Has he never fallen hard for anyone?¡±


    One of them, perhaps feeling a bit talkative, mentioned, ¡°Just rumors of one, from Wavery.¡±


    They likely assumed Josie hailed from Rivodia.


    ¡°Was she something special?¡± Josie prodded further.


    ¡°Definitely a notch above you,¡± came the cheeky reply.


    With augh, Josie made her way toward the direction they hade from, seizing the moment during a guard shift to discreetly board the ship.


    Once aboard, she quickly hid herself away, only to discover a line-up of individuals at the stern, each one exuding an aura of professionalism and discipline under the dim light.


    Amidst them, Arnold stood out distinctly, his presence emanating a dark and enigmatic vibe, clearly unbothered by the need to conceal his intentions.

 Chapter 1185

    The evening air carried a chill that made his trench coat flutter as Arnold lit up a cigarette, standing alongside Scar. Momentster, Vipera joined theirpany, followed by Wayne, whose presence was always masked and voice distorted by a voice changer.


    Approaching Arnold, Wayne¡¯s modified voice broke the silence, ¡°Arnold, it seems you¡¯re harboring doubts about me.¡±


    Arnold took a drag from his cigarette, exhaling slowly. ¡°What¡¯s the reason behind sidelining me from that delivery? Have you lost faith in me?¡±


    ¡°Your entanglement with that woman hasn¡¯t gone unnoticed. Dexter¡¯s bound to catch wind of it, and I¡¯m not about to watch you gamble with your life,¡± Wayne retorted, a hint of concerncing his words.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s for my own good, then?¡± Arnold questioned, skepticism evident.


    Wayne adjusted his stance slightly, ¡°After we wrap up here, I want you to leave the country with me.¡±


    A flick of ash from Arnold¡¯s cigarette fell to the ground as he looked up, a hint of hope in his eyes, ¡°Is there still a chance for me to go abroad?¡±


    Their exchange caught the attention of Vipera, who chimed in, ¡°Arnold, what¡¯s with the gloomytalk? Don¡¯t jinx yourself.¡±


    Hidden in the shadows, Josie was piecing together the puzzle, realizing the ship was merely a decoy. Where, then, is the actual cargo?


    She swiftlyposed a message to Dexter on her phone. But as she was about to send it, her arm brushed against themunicator, inadvertently broadcasting her presence directly to Arnold.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there!¡± His voice cut through the quiet, prompting a sudden shift in attention.


    Josie¡¯s heart raced, her breaths shallow as footsteps drew nearer. Unexpectedly, a force yanked her into a room, the door swiftly locked behind her.


    ¡°Mm!¡±


    She gasped, her eyes widening at the sight before her.


    Dexter, dressed entirely in ck, stood there, an air of urgency about him. How did he manage to infiltrate the ship unnoticed?


    His eyes was sharp and prating as he quickly moved to shut off themunicator.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    A knock at the door prompted Dexter todisguise his voice, ¡°Mr. Vipera, it¡¯s me, Joshua.¡±


    ¡°Did you see anyone here just now?¡± came the inquiry from outside.


    ¡°No, I was in the restroom,¡± Dexter replied, the tension momentarily deflected.


    ¡°What a hassle!¡±


    The footsteps retreated, leaving Josie and Dexter alone.Catching her breath, Josie confronted him, ¡°How did you find your way here?¡±


    Dexter wasted no time in securing the room, ¡°Without me, you¡¯d have been in grave danger by now.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t deny her misstep. ¡°If the cargo isn¡¯t aboard this ship, then where is it?¡±


    ¡°Then what¡¯s on this ship?¡± Dexter asked, having rushed here.


    ¡°He mentioned cash.¡±


    This pier is the only exit point from Rivodia. If not from here, where else can the cargo depart from?


    Lost in thought, Dexter¡¯s expression hardened, ¡°If Mr. Dalton has anticipated every move, then the cargo will leave without a hitch. But themanpower¡­¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    It clicked for him. Grabbing his phone, he called Scott, ¡°Check if there¡¯s been arge exodus of workers from Rivodia tonight.¡±


    Scott¡¯s concerned voice came through, ¡°Mr. Russell, I heard about your boarding. It¡¯s risky; I¡¯ll send backup immediately.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s concern was evident, having ventured onto the ship primarily because of Josie. ¡°No need. I-¡±


    The call was abruptly interrupted by the director¡¯s sharp reprimand, ¡°Dexter! Who authorized you to board? We ced our trust in you, not for reckless heroics. Even if your daughter was here, you had no right!¡±


    The weight of his words visibly affected Dexter, his gaze meeting Josie¡¯s. ¡°My being here won¡¯t disrupt the operation.¡±


    ¡°If anything goes awry, exining it to the higher-ups will be impossible. We need to evacuate now!¡±


    The urgency in the director¡¯s voice was clear,


    but Dexter remained resolute, ¡°There¡¯s no need for exnations. I¡¯ve got this under control.¡±


    After ending the call, Dexter stepped closer, concern etched on his face. ¡°Are you all right?¡±

 Chapter 1186

    Josie simply fixed her gaze upon him, a mix of determination and concern etched on her face. ¡°This is far too risky, Dexter. You shouldn¡¯t have to shoulder this burden for me,¡± she asserted, her-voiceced with worry.


    Dexter gently lifted her hand, the one still gripping the firearm, which was noticeably shaking from the tension. ¡°Were you injured?¡±


    She gave her head a slight shake, dismissing his worry. ¡°But those two who were patrolling earlier haven¡¯te back yet. It¡¯s only a matter of time before they notice we¡¯re here,¡± she cautioned, the urgency in her voice growing.


    Suddenly, another series of knocks echoed at the door, followed by a call, ¡°Joshua, is everything okay in there? We¡¯re all waiting on you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression tightened with resolve as he carefully pinned his badge onto his disguise. In his haste to board the ship, he had incapacitated a guard and assumed his identity to blend in seamlessly.


    ¡°Just a moment,¡± he called out, his voice steady.


    As he adjusted his mask and lowered his hat to obscure his face further, he turned toward Josie. ¡°I¡¯ll remain on the ship tonight. Take this -it¡¯s a signal transmitter. Should anything happen, use it to alert me immediately,¡± heinstructed, cing the sturdy device in her hand.


    However, Josie¡¯s anxiety did not wane; instead, she swiftly caught hold of Dexter¡¯s arm, her concern evident in her eyes. ¡°Are you certain this is the best course of action?¡± she pressed for reassurance.


    Dexter maintained hisposure, though a trace of unease flickered through his stoic fa?ade. ¡°I have to do this, so, Jo, I need your assistance,¡± he exined, notmanding her help but rather requesting it.


    This subtle distinction made Josie feel like she was more than just a bystander in these events.A realization struck her just as Dexter was stepping out the door, which he closed gently behind him.


    He had deliberately chosen not to have Justin apany him, suggesting that he had been prepared to face this ordeal alone from the start.


    As the sound of Dexter¡¯s convivial chatter with the crew outside dwindled, Josie found herself momentarily frozen, unable to act. She knew she had to distance herself from this precarious situation.


    The time for departure had arrived. Arnold stood on the deck, his actions decisive as hecut the mooring rope. The ship sprung to life, its lights illuminating the darkness, a horn sounding off into the night as it embarked on its voyage.


    Josie scrambled to find a secure spot to conceal her cash, but every potential hiding ce was under strict surveince. It seemed there was no safe refuge for her here.


    After what felt like an eternity, a message from Dexter arrived: Vipera and Mr. Dalton have departed on a smaller vessel; the cargo we sought isn¡¯t aboard this ship.


    With this new understanding, Josie set out to find Arnold. He was surprisingly alone, seated on the deck with a bottle of wine, seemingly lost in contemtion under the starlit sky.


    The voice came through themunicator, ¡°No anomalies detected, proceed as nned.¡±


    Arnold mused aloud, ¡°Has Dexter¡¯s men been found yet?¡±


    Scar¡¯s voice came through, ¡°No sign of them. Perhaps Josie didn¡¯t tell him.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s response was a cold, derisiveugh, a clear indication of his disdain.


    Disconnecting themunicator, Arnold took a leisurely sip of his wine before casually remarking, ¡°How much longer do you n toskulk in the shadows?¡±


    Alerted by the noise, his bodyguards immediately tensed, scanning their surroundings for any sign of intrusion.


    Josie no longer saw any point in hiding and stepped forward boldly. ¡°Seems like you¡¯re enjoying yourself, Arnold. Even with danger looming, you still find time for leisure,¡± she observed, her tone a mix of mockery and challenge.


    Arnold turned, only to be greeted by the business end of Josie¡¯s handgun.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    His reaction was one of mild curiosity mixed with a fatalistic eptance. ¡°Facing this alone, quite daring of you,¡± hemented, eyeing the weapon pointedly.


    Josie released the safety catch, her actions deliberate. ¡°You¡¯re ying a dangerous game. The stakes on this ship could very well be your undoing,¡± she stated, her voice steady, betraying none of the information she had gleaned.


    Arnold simply swirled his wine, seemingly unfazed. ¡°And how many have you brought with you?¡± he inquired, as if indulging in casual conversation.


    Josie stepped closer, the gun now mere inches from him. ¡°Doesn¡¯t the prospect of death frighten you?¡± she challenged, seeking to gaugehis resolve.


    Unblinking, Arnold met her gaze head-on. ¡°Death is an inevitability, sooner orter. If my time is now, then so be it. I¡¯d prefer it to be by your hand,¡± he dered, a hint of madness in his eptance.


    Lunatic, Josie muttered under her breath, her hands trembling slightly with the gravity of the situation.


    ¡°I¡¯m not bluffing. I will pull this trigger,¡± she warned, her resolve hardening.Arnold simply took another sip of his wine, his silence a stark contrast to the tension that filled the air.

 Chapter 1187

    Josie¡¯s patience was thinning rapidly, her voiceced with urgency, ¡°Offload everything immediately! Believe me, Arnold, reversing course is still an option. I¡¯m not trying to deceive you.¡±


    Arnold, with an air of defiance, spread his arms, a smug smile curling the edges of his lips. ¡°The ship has already embarked on its journey, Josie. There¡¯s no turning back from this point forward.¡±


    As the ship distanced itself from the shores of Rivodia, it seemed to Josie that Arnold was setting course for international waters. ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯ll call the authorities on you?¡± she challenged.


    ¡°And what exactly would you report?¡± Arnold queried with a hint of amusement.


    ¡°Smuggling illicit goods,¡± Josie shot back.


    ¡°Have you actuallyid eyes on them?¡± Arnold¡¯s question was pointed, underscoring theck of concrete evidence on Josie¡¯s part.


    She exhaled deeply, frustration evident in her tone, ¡°I didn¡¯t involve Dexter in this matter. I made the decision toe here by myself.¡±


    Arnold, his curiosity piqued, gave her a measured look. ¡°Ah, that exins the absence of Dexter¡¯s crew outside. But have you considered the risks of venturing here solo?


    The potential loss you might face, especially concerning your daughter?¡±


    His skepticism was palpable as he boldly moved to disarm her, brushing aside the gun she aimed at him. ¡°Where¡¯s your aplice hidden?¡±


    Speaking with earnestness, Josie disclosed, ¡°Before stepping onto this dock, I took a couple of guards into custody. If you doubt my words, feel free to search the premises. You won¡¯t find anyone apanying me.¡±


    Their gazes locked, Arnold weighed her sincerity, pondering her motivation foring alone.


    ¡°I implore you, reconsider your course.¡±


    Hisughter filled the air, a response devoid of any intention to heed her plea.


    ¡°I was desperate for the medication you controlled. However, if securing it meant bringing harm to countless families, I couldn¡¯t live with myself. That¡¯s the reason I came here, to persuade you to reconsider.¡±


    Her words were steeped in sincerity.


    ¡°And what makes you think your words could sway me?¡± Arnold appeared unbothered, regarding her as one might a jester.


    Josie motioned for him toe closer, a silent invitation. Arnold, momentarily hesitant, decided to approach her despite Scar¡¯s frantic interruption from the control room, alerting him to the gun in Josie¡¯s hand.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze briefly met Scar¡¯s before he chose to close the distance between himself and Josie.


    She lifted the gun, asserting, ¡°If you persist in this madness, I¡¯ll have no choice but to bring you down with me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll face the end together then,¡± Arnold retorted, hisughter deepening. ¡°Did Dexter teach you to shoot? Are you quick enough on the draw?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not entirely certain,¡± Josie confessed, ¡°but bullets aren¡¯t known for their discrimination, Arnold. Regardless of the oue, I consider this a win. Having lived as long as I have, dragging an adversary like you down with me would be a worthy act.¡±


    Arnold skillfully evaded her, his amusement evident. ¡°So, you knew I was doomed tonight and came specifically to apany me in my final moments. Josie, you¡¯re truly kind-hearted.¡±


    Josie was perplexed by his words, her expression one of confusion. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    His eyes, gleaming in the darkness, revealed a chilling truth. ¡°This transaction is colossal. Should this ship fail to reach its destination, it¡¯s rigged to explode on the spot.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Dalton¡¯s handiwork, then?¡± Josie realized, taken aback.


    ¡°Did you really think managing such an affair would be straightforward?¡± Arnold¡¯sposure was unshaken. ¡°Turning back isn¡¯t within my power.¡±


    Yet, he harbored no regrets.


    Clearly, if Wayne couldn¡¯t possess these assets, he wouldn¡¯t permit them to fall into public hands. He was no phnthropist.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t he promise to take you abroad? After all your years of loyalty, wouldn¡¯t he ensure your safety?¡± Josie couldn¡¯t help but inquire.


    Arnold could only smile at her naivety. The closer one was, the more secrets they


    harbored. His existence was bound to Wayne¡¯s whims; without that allegiance, he was merely a man facing a dead end.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    As Josie was lost in thought, Arnold seized the moment, forcefully twisting her wrist. The gun tumbled to the deck, and he promptly kicked it out of reach, signaling for Scar.


    In pain, Josie used, ¡°Arnold, you¡¯re yingme!¡±


    Scar quickly secured the firearm, ensuring it was out of Josie¡¯s reach.


    Arnold leaned in, whispering, ¡°I¡¯m not ying games, Josie. Everything I¡¯ve said is the truth. But let¡¯s keep those hands of yours from causing any further mischief.¡±

 Chapter 1188

    Josie found herself abruptly pulled into a close embrace by Arnold, their bodies entangled in a moment that blurred the lines between confrontation and intimacy. The cool evening air brushed against Josie¡¯s hair, casting a serene yet tense atmosphere around them. ¡°Release me!¡±


    Having secured the firearm from her grasp, Arnold stepped back, examining the gun with an air of contemtion. ¡°Imagine Dexter¡¯s reaction if he were to see us now. I suspect he¡¯d be less than pleased, to say the least,¡± he spected, half-jokingly.


    Her focus shifted, catching Arnold off guard. ¡°Everything you¡¯ve just shared with me¡­ was any of it fabricated?¡± she inquired, seeking truth amid the web of uncertainty that surrounded them.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze shifted away for a moment, betraying a hint of difort. ¡°Why would I fabricate such a tale? This vessel is rigged with explosives, hidden at its very core. Should Mr. Dalton catch wind of any betrayal, he won¡¯t hesitate to detonate them,¡± he revealed, his tone somber.


    Josie di?missed the notion with a shake of her head, ¡°That doesn¡¯t add up. If Mr. Dalton had truly wished for your demise, you wouldn¡¯t have escaped unscathed from our first encounter. You¡¯re valuable to him; he wouldn¡¯t squander his trump card so recklessly.¡±


    The mention of their shared past elicited a chuckle from Arnold, though his amusement quickly faded, reced by a serious demeanor. ¡°Do you have any idea how I survived back then?¡± he posed the question, locking eyes with her, waiting for an answer that she did not have.


    In those days, Arnold recounted, many had been dispatched in an attempt to capture him, a mission led by Dexter¡¯s forces. He found himself adrift, surrounded, and outgunned. Ultimately, he made a daring escape, plunging into the river at Rivodia¡¯s edge and swimming to freedom.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Bruised and battered, he sought an audience with Wayne, offering his loyalty and begging for a second chance.


    Trust, once shattered, was not easily restored.


    Wayne surveyed him from above, his gaze prating and contemtive. After a moment of silence, he posed a question that cut to the core, ¡°Arnold, at this moment, what do you see yourself as?¡±


    ¡°A stray dog,¡± Arnold confessed, his voice carrying the weight of his fallen state. ¡°I¡¯mwilling to be at your disposal.¡±


    The response elicited augh from Wayne, a reaction that underscored the gravity of Arnold¡¯s situation.


    Regaining trust and standing within the inner circle demanded more than mere apologies; it necessitated a journey through trials and tribtions. Arnold was cast into the most unforgiving environments, where daily survival was a victory in itself.


    Task after daunting task was set before him, each a potential death sentence if failed. Triumphing over these obstacles was his only path back to Wayne¡¯s side, a journey that spanned an arduous two years.


    Arnold rolled up his sleeve to show Josie the scars that adorned his arm-a vivid record of his past struggles. The skin bore the marks of knives, theshings of whips; it was a testament to the myriad battles he had endured.


    ¡°There is no alternative,¡± he stated, his expression void of emotion, a stark reflection of the resignation that had taken hold of him.


    Josie found herself instinctively looking away, unable to meet his gaze. While she felt no sympathy for Arnold, believing his current predicament to be the consequence of his own actions, his revtion left an indelible mark on her perception of him.


    Arnold shared a particrly poignant memory of his return to Wayne¡¯s side, recounting how he was immersed in a medicinal spring, his wounds searing with pain as Wayne addedmore herbs to the water.


    ¡°Reduced to such a state over a mere woman. Are you content now?¡± Wayne had inquired, his voice both mocking and inquisitive.


    Clutching his resolve amidst the agony, Arnold had vowed, ¡°I will reim everything that is rightfully mine.¡±


    ¡°Do you still love her?¡±


    ¡°My capacity for love has been extinguished,¡± Arnold replied, sealing his fate with those words.


    As the final pouch of medicinal herbs was cast into the spring, Wayne dered, ¡°Then reim everything you¡¯ve lost.¡±


    Hearing Arnold¡¯s ount, Josie¡¯s skepticism deepened, her voice heavy with implication, ¡°Love? Could you ever truly say you loved me?¡±


    Arnold, caught off guard by her doubt, could only offer a hollowugh in response. ¡°Love is a sentiment I¡¯ve long since abandoned.¡±


    Yet, in a moment of unexpected vulnerability, Josie reached for his scarred wrist, her touch tentative, yet telling. ¡°There might have been a time when my heart was open to you, Arnold. Had youe into my life before Dexter, things might have been different between us.¡±


    Arnold was left momentarily speechless by her admission.

 Chapter 1189

    ¡°Don¡¯t try that trick on me; it won¡¯t work anymore,¡± came his response a beatter.


    Josie dered, her voice earnest yet weary from the games and maniptions. ¡°Believe it or not, despite your veneer of discipline, it¡¯s often those with a strict facade who fall hardest for the rebels. And you, Arnold, are the epitome of that paradox.¡±


    No sooner had she voiced her thoughts than Arnold reached out, abruptly forcing her to look directly into his eyes. ¡°Have you ever been haunted by regrets?¡± he probed, seeking a glimpse into her soul.


    Josie met his gaze unwaveringly, her response straightforward, ¡°Regrets? Yes, they¡¯ve crossed my mind.¡±


    ¡°And what if I told you that offering you any form of legitimate recognition or status is beyond my capabilities?¡±


    ¡°I came to terms with that reality a long time ago. But the real tragedy here is your deception from the outset, leaving no room for ¡®what-ifs,¡± Josie countered, her disappointment thinly veiled.


    Inching closer, she posed a question that seemed to catch Arnold off-guard, ¡°If life offered you a second chance, would you steer us down a better path?¡±


    Arnold, sensing the depth of her inquiry, allowed a slow smile to spread across his lips. Without a word, he pushed Josie away, asserting, ¡°There are no hypotheticals.¡±


    Finding herself unceremoniously seated on the ground, Josie adopted a posture of indifference. ¡°Well, if this is how it ends, let¡¯s face it together,¡± she remarked, a hint of resignation in her tone.


    Arnold nudged her yfully with his foot, probing, ¡°Are any of Dexter¡¯s ships nearby, ready toe to your aid?¡±


    ¡°How would I know?¡± Josie shrugged, a mix of frustration and candor in her voice. ¡°I never broached the subject with him. Besides, your scheme deviates significantly from the information that¡¯s been leaked. Even if changes were madest minute, they wouldn¡¯t align with your current n.¡±


    Realization dawned on Arnold, ¡°Then, how did you stumble upon this information?¡±


    With a coy smile, Josie boasted, ¡°I¡¯m smarter than you give me credit for.¡±


    The man said nothing in response.


    ¡°To be perfectly honest, Arnold, I doubt there¡¯s another woman in this world who understands you as well as I do,¡± she admitted, a moment of vulnerability amidst their verbal sparring.


    ¡°Know-it-all.¡±


    Just then, the conversation was momentarily interrupted by the sound of footsteps. A strikingly elegant andposed woman appeared. ¡°Robyn, you have a visitor,¡± she announced, her intuition sharp.


    Josie, seizing the moment to retreat, subtly adjusted her stance, allowing space for the neer.


    ¡°Josephine? Did I wake you?¡±


    Josephine Yowell, misinterpreting the situation, confessed, ¡°I thought I heard a disturbance outside my room, but it seems I was mistaken.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Arnold¡¯s demeanor softened as he reached out to adjust her hair, an act of tenderness. ¡°Are you still tired? I can stay with you a while longer,¡± he offered.


    The woman, however, was more focused on Josie¡¯s presence, her curiosity piqued. ¡°And who might this be?¡±


    Seizing the moment to define her role, Josie quickly replied, ¡°I¡¯m Mr. Mills¡¯ newest assistant, recently assigned to the team.¡±


    Moments earlier, Josie¡¯s attire was noticeably disheveled, a clear sign to anyone paying attention that an encounter of some significance had just urred.


    Josephine, standing there with aplexion that spoke volumes of her unease, exuded a blend of maturity and naivety. It was apparent that she had been sheltered, her innocence peeking through despite her grown-up demeanor.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Josie nced at Arnold before responding, ¡°Alice.¡±


    Josephine¡¯s skepticism was palpable, her eyes searching Arnold¡¯s for truth. ¡°Is that so?¡± she pressed.


    Arnold, maintaining a facade of indifference, reassured her, ¡°Your hands are cold. Let me have someone prepare a warm beverage for you.¡±


    He then signaled toward Scar, who promptly dragged Josie away.


    Josie, caught off guard by the sudden movement, managed to break free from Scar¡¯s grip as they turned a corner. She found a spot to hide and eavesdrop, her curiosity piqued, ¡°What¡¯s so secretive that I can¡¯t see?¡±


    Scar, evidently frustrated by the situation, admonished her, ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for games. Do you have any idea who that woman is?¡±


    Josie truly had no idea. ¡°Seems like she¡¯s nosmall-fry. Her status must be above Summer, huh?¡±


    Meanwhile, outside, Josephine had sought sce in Arnold¡¯s embrace, her gaze lifting to his as she voiced her concerns, ¡°Is there someone else?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got it all wrong. Please, give me a moment to exin everything,¡± Arnold pleaded, his emotions a tangle of concern and detachment, making it hard to gauge his true feelings.


    ¡°Robyn,¡± Josephine recalled her father¡¯s words, seeking reassurance, ¡°he told me that a man¡¯s worth isn¡¯t measured by the number of his conquests, but by where he chooses to ce his heart. So, I have to ask, where does your heart truly belong?¡±


    Arnold, without hesitation, assured her, ¡°It belongs with you, of course.¡±

 Chapter 1190

    Josephine seemed uncertain about whether to trust Arnold¡¯s words, but nheless, she nestled within his embrace, seekingfort.


    Scar unable to contain his impatience, nudged Josie, signaling it was time for them to leave. ¡°Enough gawking. Let¡¯s go!¡±


    Suddenly, Josie found herself being whisked into a bedroom, the door locking with a click behind her. ¡°Hey!¡± she called out in protest, but Scar had already secured the door from the outside, leaving her with no choice but to stay.


    Surveying her surroundings, Josie realized she was in a room far toovish for any ordinary bodyguard. The presence of liquor on the bedside table caught her attention-it was brandy, a detail that hinted this was Arnold¡¯s master bedroom.


    The thought crossed her mind that Arnold had managed to keep a secret lover hidden in such a ce.


    While searching for an escape, she was startled by a pair of hands that suddenly covered her mouth from behind.


    ¡°It¡¯s me!¡± a familiar voice whispered, bringing a sense of relief.


    Turning around, Josie found Dexter standing there, his presence in the room as surprising as it was reassuring.


    ¡°How did you get here?¡± she asked, stepping back to gauge his response.


    ¡°I went on a patrol.¡±


    ¡°What did you find? What¡¯s on the ship?¡±


    ¡°It was all cash,¡± he stated, his tone reflective as he recounted the sight of an entire warehouse overflowing with money, a sum so vast it could easily be Wayne¡¯s life¡¯s umtion.


    Josie began to share her concerns, ¡°Arnold mentioned that any mishap could lead to the ship being blown up directly. Dexter, there¡¯s something you should know-¡±


    Her words were cut off by Dexter, ¡°I¡¯ve been listening.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been here all along. How else do you think Josephine was roused from her sleep?¡± Dexter revealed, shedding light on the cause of the earlier disturbance that had caught Josie¡¯s attention.


    This revtion prompted Josie to inquire further, ¡°Who exactly is that woman, and why does Arnold seem to tread so cautiously around her?¡±


    Dexter, while examining a bottle of wine on the table, shared, ¡°She¡¯s the daughter of thesecond-inmand in Rivodia. Arnold needed a reputable wife to solidify his social standing. It¡¯s no surprise to me; leveraging influential rtionships has always been Arnold¡¯s strategy to climb the socialdder.¡±


    ¡°So, Arnold found himself ensnared in his own game,¡± Josie mused aloud. ¡°Arnold and Summer were merely pawns for Wayne, used to ingratiate himself with the elite. It¡¯s rather sad, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Josie pondered what true benefit Arnold sought from his actions. Was survival his sole motivator?


    As the conversation progressed, she made a connection, ¡°The second-inmand-that was the contact you had before we boarded¡­ So, this means¡­¡±


    Their exchange of looks confirmed their mutual understanding, with Dexter concluding, ¡°We can no longer use this contact.¡±


    Even the second-inmand is one of Mr. Dalton¡¯s people. Who can we trust now?


    Breaking the silence, Dexter broached the subject of Josie¡¯s earlier interaction with Arnold. ¡°I heard your conversation with him,¡± he said.


    ¡°I was ying him,¡± Josie admitted hastily.


    Dexter¡¯s response, apanied by a rueful smile, was, ¡°I¡¯m not upset.¡±


    This left Josie momentarily lost for words, her gaze lowered.


    ¡°I-¡±


    ¡°Earlier-¡±


    As they both attempted to speak, a momentary pause allowed the tension to build. Josie gestured for Dexter to proceed. ¡°You go first.¡±


    ¡°Scott confirmed the departure of numerous workers from Rivodia earlier tonight.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°What does it mean?¡±


    ¡°The true merchandise is concealed on their bodies.¡±


    On their bodies? Josie furrowed her brows. It was a tactic reminiscent of historical smuggling methods. ¡°Have we initiated any countermeasures?¡± she asked, concerned about their next steps.


    Dexter assured her, ¡°With our presence here and no signal sent out, he¡¯d be reluctant to act rashly.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ there¡¯s only two of us here,¡± Josie retorted. Moreover, they needed to keep Arnold in the dark about Dexter¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Josie,¡± Dexter began, ¡°When the timees, Arnold has to die.¡±

 Chapter 1191

    The deration from Dexter sent a shockwave through Josie. While she had considered numerous ways to deal with Arnold, the finality of death had never been part of her contemtion. It felt too final, too extreme, and besides, there were unresolved matters concerning her father that needed addressing.


    She quickly voiced her concerns, ¡°No, no matter what direction this situation takes, we need to keep him alive. The issue with my father hasn¡¯t been settled yet.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s response was cool and unyielding, ¡°Your hope is admirable, but I can¡¯t guarantee anything.¡±


    His silhouette became more pronounced under the moonlight streaming through the window, giving his dark attire an ominous sheen.


    ¡°Let me take the lead on this. I¡¯m prepared to exhaust every avenue,¡± he stated, though the air between them always seemed to grow tense whenever this topic was broached.


    As they stood at an impasse, the sound of footsteps and the turning of a lock from outside disrupted the moment. Josie¡¯s gaze darted toward the door, only to find Dexter had vanished into the bathroom in the blink of an eye.


    When she turned back, Arnold was leisurely making his entrance. ¡°I was half expecting tofind my room in shambles,¡± hemented with a hint of amusement.


    Josie took a deep breath and settled herself on the expansive bed, her posture rxed. ¡°You¡¯ve really outdone yourself,¡± she remarked, ¡°Winning over Lucas Yowell¡¯s daughter. Is she aware that you have another side to you-that of Arnold Carter, a man on the run?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression briefly faltered before regaining itsposure. ¡°You recognized her then. Quite astute.¡±


    ¡°Thanks to your escapades, I¡¯ve had my fair share of mingling with the elite. What did you expect?¡± Arnold mused, stepping further into the room. ¡°In this world, you carve out your own identity. If I im I¡¯m Robyn, she has no choice but to ept that as truth.¡±


    That was when it clicked for Josie. ¡°So there is an actual Robyn Mills out there. You¡¯ve obscured him, usurping his identity,¡± she realized, understanding why Arnold¡¯s integration had been so seamless.


    Arnold¡¯s smile was tinged with condescension. ¡°I thought you¡¯d be quicker on the uptake. Discovering this only now doesn¡¯t speak highly of your wits.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re ying a dangerous game!¡± Josie¡¯s voice was low but filled with intensity. However, her words seemed to vanish into thin air, heradvice unheeded. She shook her head, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her gesture. ¡°Step back, Arnold. Dexter has influential allies. I¡¯ll talk to him, try to negotiate your sentence down to ten years, just like you wanted.¡±


    Arnold, confronted with her plea, seemed bewildered by her persistence. ¡°Why do you insist on me changing my ways? Do you think I¡¯m like Dexter, capable of being swayed so easily? The path I¡¯ve chosen is mine to follow, and it will undeniably be a better one than his.¡±


    He always saw himself inparison to Dexter, their lives a study in contrasts.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Josie, reaching out, took hold of his wrist. ¡°What if your chosen path leads to death?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s demeanor remained unshaken. ¡°If that¡¯s to be my fate, so be it.¡±


    Josie felt a shiver run down her spine. There was no changing his mind.


    She ventured another question, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t Josephine be upset if you kept me here?¡±


    Arnold casually walked over to the bedside table and picked up the bottle of brandy. Josie observed him closely, her anxiety easing slightly as he seemed not to dwell too much on her question.


    ¡°The more reserved a woman is, the more she¡¯s drawn to men who defy norms. And such men are invariably attracted to the ¡®bad¡¯ women,¡± Arnold mused, pouring himself a drink. ¡°Josephine isn¡¯t ¡®bad¡¯ enough.¡±


    Their eyes met, a silent conversation in the flickering shadows.


    ¡°And what about me?¡± Josie asked, a challengein her gaze


    ¡°Your appeal to Dexter was never just about your virtues. It was your wit, your guile, and your decisiveness that drew him in. If you were as docile as Josephine, would he still feel the same?¡± Arnold¡¯s words hung in the air, prompting Josie to nce toward the bathroom door, which was slightly ajar, revealing a shadow within.


    Deep down, she wanted to know, was that really the case?

 Chapter 1192

    Arnold ced the ss of wine before Josie. ¡°Drink it.¡±


    Josie stiffened all over. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°After you¡¯ve had a drink, you can take a nap. Once we reach the shore, I¡¯ll let you go.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t respond to that but said, ¡°You¡¯re still testing me. I¡¯ve told you I came alone. Even if I¡¯m conscious, I won¡¯t get in the way of your ns.¡±


    Arnold firmly grasped her delicate and boneless wrist, forcing her to take the wine. He enunciated, ¡°If your conscience is clear, drink the wine.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but tremble and nced again at the bathroom subconsciously. I can¡¯t allow myself to pass out!


    She said slowly, ¡°Arnold, let¡¯s make a bet. I¡¯ll stop you by myself.¡±


    No sooner had the words left her mouth than a loud bang suddenly rang out from the bathroom, catching Arnold off guard. He promptly turned around instinctively. At that moment, Josie seized the opportunity to escape his clutches, hastily sprinting out.


    The wine ss crashed to the ground, the sound of ss shattering echoing through theroom.


    There was nothing else on Josie¡¯s mind. Her only thought was to run toward the ship¡¯s cabin, the incessant footsteps behind her indicating that she was being pursued.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡±


    In the master bedroom, Arnold entered the bathroom. Finding no trace of anyone, he roared, ¡°Get her!¡±


    Panting, Josie found a corner and hid there just before her strength was depleted, sessfully dodging Arnold¡¯s men crawling on the entire ship.


    She clutched her chest, feeling as if her heart was about to leap out, and tilted her head back to calm her breathing.


    Just then, a figure sessfully located her. It was Dexter who approached from the other side. The space was tight, and they found themselves locking eyes breathlessly.


    Dexter grasped her hand. ¡°Is everything all right?¡±


    Josie shook her head. ¡°I had a falling out with Arnold. What should I do now?¡±


    Dexter closed his eyes and calmed down.


    ¡°He made thorough preparations, taking Josephine aboard the ship, effectively intimidating Rivodia into inaction. This directly cut off our only avenue for reinforcements.¡±


    Josie gripped his hand in return. ¡°What about Wavery? This ship is bound to pass by Wavery as it leaves the country.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°At this point, it¡¯s toote to dispatch ships for interception. Besides, if we don¡¯t dock, Wayne will detonate the ship, leading to a lose-lose situation.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t ept that. ¡°Are we supposed to just aid and abet Arnold?¡±


    Upon hearing that question, Dexter suddenly nced at her. ¡°Wasn¡¯t that your n just a moment ago?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I just didn¡¯t want innocent people to die alongside us.¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Josie was wound up too tight. At that moment, her mind was filled with the sound of her daughter¡¯sughter and smiling face. For the first time, she felt utterly helpless. ¡°Maybe I was really too impulsive. Dexter, I¡¯m still immature.¡±


    Inparison, his ruthless action was moreprehensive than mine.


    Her incoherent rambling had Dexter frowning deeply. cing a hand on her shoulder, hegently gave her a reassuring pat. ¡°There will be a solution. Just wait a little longer.¡±


    In the darkness, their ears were filled with hurried footsteps and the pounding of each other¡¯s hearts. Inexplicably, Josie felt a surge of strength coursing through her.


    They were in an inteyer, and as long as they didn¡¯t make too much noise, it would be difficult for the bodyguards to locate them there.


    Dexter knew the ship like the back of his hand. He extended his hand and drew her a map. ¡°This here is the storage room. The entrance is heavily guarded by bodyguards, including the inside of it. If you want to sneak in, the only way is through the skylight.¡±


    Surprise flickered in Josie¡¯s eyes. ¡°What do you mean? You want to capitalize on the cash?¡±


    Dexter passed her an affirming nce. ¡°Implementing this n will be challenging, but right now, this is the only way to ensure Arnold¡¯s safe arrival.¡±


    He was doing his utmost to achieve the best of both worlds.

 Chapter 1193

    Dexter¡¯s attitude had a wealth of warmth inexplicably suffusing Josie.


    When the footsteps outside had faded into the distance, Dexter took her hand and led her out of the inteyer. He then swiftly climbed to the top of the ship¡¯s cabin before reaching out and pulling Josie up. They stood together at the elevated point, the wind whistling around them, causing their hair to flutter wildly.


    They could see Arnold on the deck, his expression dark as he reprimanded his men. ¡°Apart from the bodyguards on warehouse duty, why is there one person short?¡±


    The bodyguards couldn¡¯t find Josie. All gathered together at that moment, they exchanged nces and realized that one person was indeed missing from their group.


    Someone eximed, ¡°It¡¯s Joshua! Joshua is missing! I was just on patrol with him. How strange.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s face grew increasingly darker. With a swift flick of his hand, the whip he held whizzed menacingly through the air. ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and look for him right away!¡±


    ¡°Hold it!¡± Arnold barked, having realized something. ¡°There¡¯s no need to search anymore. Conduct a carpet search. Once youfind those two people, kill them immediately.¡±


    His aura was akin to that of the Grim Reaper. At the side, Josephine was terrified. She went weak but tried her best to maintain herposure. Nheless, it was clear to her that he held little affection for Josie.


    She let out a sigh of relief.


    Having received their orders, the bodyguards dispersed in all directions.


    Dexter and Josie sat side by side at the topmost point, watching as Arnold approached Josephine. His tone gradually softened as he asked, ¡°Did I frighten you?¡±


    Josephine¡¯s lips curved into a smile, and she shook her head.


    ¡°The first time I met you, you were just as fierce. How could I possibly be frightened? Did that woman¡­ ruin your n?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just a woman who thinks too highly of herself.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s lips also curved up, but his smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes. He gazed out at the seemingly endless expanse of sea, his expression unreadable.


    By then, several boats had already sailed out of the river to the sea.


    Josie opened the map on her phone. In just two more hours, they would arrive in Wavery.


    However, there was no signal.


    Dexter took out a locator, checked the coordinates, and synced it. His voice was somewhat muffled in the wind. ¡°If I were to notify the Russell family in Wavery now, they might be able to make it in time.¡±


    ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Anything belonging to the Russell family is not to be used lightly. Once used, they will rush over as quickly as possible.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t tell her that once this device was activated, it signified that the head of the Russell family was in danger, thus triggering a level-one response.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°Why don¡¯t you notify Mr. Ziegler?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s toote, and the scale of this operation is toorge. There are traitors in Wavery, so the moment they make a move, Rivodia will be alerted immediately.¡±


    Therefore, the Russell family is safer.


    Dexter added, ¡°The air in the warehouse is insufficient, so they switch shifts every half an hour. We only have these three minutes duringthe shift change to sneak in.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t time yet.


    Her heart racing, Josie gave a slight nod.


    The sea was pitch ck, the only lighting from the distant lighthouse and the ship itself.


    The wind howled around her as she hugged her knees, in an emotional turmoil. She said, ¡°It¡¯s nine o¡¯clock. Grape should be asleep by now. I wonder if Justin managed to coax her.¡±


    Dexter crouched and sat down with her, gazing into the distance. ¡°Grape is very well-behaved. You raised her well, and she¡¯s not the type to make a fuss. You can rest easy.¡±


    Josie nced at him, a sudden realization striking her. ¡°Sometimes, I think her obedience wasn¡¯t inherited from me, but you.¡±


    That remark had Dexter cast her a sidelong nce.


    He chuckled. ¡°There¡¯s some truth to that. You¡¯ve been a handful since young.¡±

 Chapter 1194

    Josie refused to admit to Dexter¡¯sment. ¡°Not always.¡±


    ¡°No? You always mored for raspberry roll cake from Orchid Bakery on our way home from school. Once, they were sold out, and you were so upset that you refused to eat. You ended up with gastritis and got hospitalized.¡± Dexter recounted the past in vivid detail, remembering it all too clearly.


    Naturally, Josie remembered that as well and felt somewhat helpless. ¡°That was an exception.¡±


    She remembered after she was admitted to the hospital that time, she was still upset. No matter how much Mark and udia tried to coax her, it was all to no avail. Dexter then went to Orchid Bakery before the break of dawn and waited for it to open. Clutching a wad of bills, he dered he wanted to buy ten raspberry roll cakes.


    The salesperson was utterly amused.


    Nheless, Josie cheered up for real. She beamed from ear to ear at that time. ¡°Only Dexter understands me. None of you do.¡±N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    At the side, Mark said teasingly, ¡°Oh, since Dexter understands you best, how about marrying him when you grow up?¡±


    At the time, she couldn¡¯t grasp the concept ofmarriage. As she ate, she grinned. ¡°That¡¯d be wonderful!¡±


    Everyone in the room burst intoughter.Only Dexter, who had just entered adolescence, silently blushed, his earlobes turning red.


    Later, when many others repeated Mark¡¯s words, his expression remained calm. He went along with the flow, his earlobes never red again.


    During those years when Josie was lost, he often dreamed of her in the middle of the night, crying in frustration because she couldn¡¯t get her hands on a raspberry roll cake. Yet, he was helpless to do anything about it. Each time, he would startle awake, wondering where she was then and if someone still indulged her and bought her raspberry roll cakes.


    Just the mere thought of it distressed him to the core. Even now, as he recalled that time, there was still an ufortable twinge in his heart.


    As the same memories flooded back, Josie felt somewhat uneasy. She clenched her fingers. ¡°I¡­ no longer like eating raspberry roll cakes now.¡±


    Dexter paused slightly and simply responded with a nomittal grunt in the end.


    It was low and made Josie¡¯s heart skip a beat.


    She nced at him, only to see him lowering his gaze to the locator.


    It had lit up, and words appeared on it, one by one.


    They read: At your service, Mr. Russell.


    Dexter typed rapidly: Ten lifeboats. Follow my coordinates and send people to the bottom of the ship.


    Josie parted her lips, but Dexter then said to her, ¡°It¡¯s about time.¡±


    In the warehouse, the bodyguards were having a shift change. Looking down from the skylight, the couple saw them walking out in a line, leaving the door wide open.


    Dexter quickly asked, ¡°If I go down first, will you be scared?¡±


    Josie shook her head. Adder hung below the skylight, but it was vertical and looked intimidating. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I can do it.¡±


    Sure enough, Josie seeded in keeping her word.


    Dexter first stood in a corner in the shadows. Tilting his head back, he watched as Josie slowly climbed down and entered thewarehouse just before the three-minute window was up.


    He had skillfully set up a cover and securely caught Josie. Thetter promptly bent over to move out of the bodyguards¡¯ line of sight.


    Dexter unlocked his phone, dimming the screen to its lowest brightness, and typed her a message that read: Starting now, don¡¯t make a single sound.


    Josie nodded.


    The bodyguards on shift came in, and the warehouse door was shut once again..


    Appearances were deceiving, for only upon entering would they understand the treasure within. The entire warehouse was filled to the brim with cash, turning one¡¯s head.


    Wayne¡¯s umtion of wealth was almost terrifying.


    Dexter locked his phone and gradually sprawled on the ground. His movements were slow, his breathing deliberately paced. His hands groped the floor, searching for some mechanism or other.


    Following his lead, Josie sprawled on the ground and joined him in the meticulous search.


    It was a test of endurance. Under extreme tension, she could barely catch her breath. When she looked at Dexter, she saw that his expression was grim in the darkness, and he was equally worn out.


    She parted her lips, intending to ask him if he could hold out. But as the words reached the tip of her tongue, she remembered his instructions and decided against it.

 Chapter 1195

    When Dexter disguised himself as a bodyguard, he had already scoped out the location of the surveince camera. Right then, he silently went over and covered it with his jacket.


    Josie held his breath, but he was well-trained. With bated breath and a focused mind, he moved so silently that there wasn¡¯t even a whisper of sound and sessfully evaded the bodyguards.


    In the confined space, only the skylight allowed for venttion, so the room was filled with the stench of money.


    For the first time, Josie vividly experienced the so-called stench of money.


    Dexter was still searching for something. With her back to the bodyguard, Josie sat on the ground and typed a message to him: What are you looking for?


    After he had finished running his hands over thest section of the nearby floor, he replied: There¡¯s usually a device in this part of the ship that leads to the sea, something akin to what we¡¯d normally call a sewer. We need to find it and open it.


    Understanding dawned upon Josie. She bent over and helped to search for it, but with cash piled up everywhere, it was actually very difficult to find what they were looking for. For a moment, she felt somewhat disheartened.


    Unsure of how to express her feelings, she joked: This money couldst a lifetime. What about you, Dexter? Do you have this much money?


    Dexter nced over, a smile curving his lips in the darkness. A bodyguard happened to look their way at that moment, so he took her hand instead of taking out his phone, writing on her palm: You can help me out and see if you can finish spending it all.


    In other words, he was telling her to tie herself to him for a lifetime and see if she could spend all his money.


    Josie¡¯s palm itched. As she grasped his meaning, her face heated in the darkness. She gestured in response: Let your daughter give it a try.


    Though she indeed loved money, she was not one to fall into the trap. Besides, Dexter was sure to have a wealth of assets, so it was only fair for her to fight for a share on behalf of Grape.


    The two of them were exceedingly close. As they interacted, their breaths intertwined, and they inevitably blushed.


    Upon hearing the rapid heartbeat, Josie initially thought it was her own. However, once she came to her senses, she realized it was Dexter¡¯s. Frowning, she pointed at him andasked: Are you okay?


    He shook his head and bent over to continue searching for the mechanism.


    Both of them knew in such a cramped space, finding it depended entirely on luck, but they had no other option. That was their only way out.


    A bodyguard was bored on duty and muttered, ¡°Dude, even though this money is important, isn¡¯t it a bit overkill to have so many people watching over it? It¡¯s not like it can sprout wings and fly away.¡±


    No sooner had the words left his mouth than a sharp nudge hit him. ¡°Are you out of your mind? What if the enemy intercepts the ship? We¡¯d both lose our lives.¡±


    Another bodyguard chimed in, ¡°Yeah. Just a while ago, Mr. Carter was looking for someone. I have no idea who it was, but it seemed like a big deal. You¡¯d better hope nothing goes wrong.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t even dare imagine it. We¡¯d be doomed if something went wrong on our watch.¡±


    Just then, there was a sudden knock on the door. The three bodyguards exchanged nces, but still, they stepped forward and opened the door.


    Josie¡¯s heart was leaped into her throat, and she instinctively turned her gaze to Dexter.


    He gently shook his head in reassurance.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Ms. Yowell! Why are you here?¡± the bodyguards eximed in surprise.


    It was none other than Josephine. She had an extraordinary aura about her, but as she stood alone at the door at that moment, she looked somewhat bewildered in the face of so much cash.


    ¡°I came on behalf of Mr. Mills to check on things. Nothing went wrong, right?¡± she asked, calm andposed.


    ¡°Up until now, everything has been well. Please tell Mr. Mills that there¡¯s no need for concern.¡±


    Josephine went on her tiptoes, trying to peek into the warehouse. s, the bodyguards shifted sideways and blocked her. ¡°This is a private and confidential area, Ms. Yowell. I apologize.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it just money? What¡¯s there to hide?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant¡­¡±


    While they were conversing outside, Dexter subtly changed his position. He moved behind the bodyguard, holding a stun baton in his hand, taken from the bodyguard he had knocked unconscious.

 Chapter 1196

    ¡°Work is never easy, and I don¡¯t mean to make things harder for you all. I¡¯m just reminding you to stay vignt. Don¡¯t let the wrong sort of people hide in the warehouse.¡±


    Josephine was rtively easygoing. The bodyguards outside had turned the cabin inside out and even sent people to search beneath the ship, but there was no sign of anyone. It was unlikely that Josie had jumped into the sea, so only the warehouse was left since no one darede over.


    As Josie listened to all that, her mind whirred.


    She knows the kind of man Arnold is and the kind of business he¡¯s doing for a living. Yet, despite being the daughter of the second person inmand of Rivodia, she still chose to go on the same boat as him. I never expected the waters of Rivodia to have grown so dark.


    ¡°Understood!¡± the bodyguards answered. Only then did Josephine turn around and leave.


    ¡°What does that even mean? I didn¡¯t see a single flye in. How could whoever it is possibly be in our warehouse?¡± one of them grumbled under his breath as he closed the door.


    The light vanished, leaving only darkness behind.


    ¡°Just in case, let¡¯s conduct a search.¡± The otherbodyguard was more cautious. He promptly raised his shlight, turning around and shining it around.


    A beam of light fell on Dexter, all dressed in ck. His expression was cold and sinister, resembling the Grim Reaper himself. The three bodyguards were taken aback, but before they could even scream, he had already moved forward, covering one person¡¯s mouth and ruthlessly striking another with the stun baton.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Josie wasn¡¯t idle either. With fast reflexes, she stepped forward and used all her strength to cover the third person¡¯s mouth.


    The three bodyguards watched in shock as the couple worked in perfect harmony and knocked them unconscious.


    They didn¡¯t even have a chance to resist.


    cing thest person who had passed out onto the ground, Dexter whispered, ¡°They are all elite soldiers of Arnold and trained for many years. If it reallyes to a fight, we are no match for them.¡±


    Therefore, he had to rely on his wit to overwhelm them.


    A sliver of fear crept into Josie. ¡°Then, we have Josephine to thank for creating this opportunity for us.¡±


    Without the bodyguards watching, Dexter could walk around a bit more freely. He made his way to a corner and easily located the entrance to the sewer. He triggered the mechanism and opened it, revealing a short stretch of pitch- ck pipeline below.


    He sent a precise message from the locator.


    Josie, however, turned her gaze to the surveince camera obscured by Dexter¡¯s jacket. ¡°If the surveince camera were to malfunction, Arnold would be suspicious.¡±


    Dexter looked over as well. He stepped forward to lock the warehouse door from the inside. With no idea when the three bodyguards would wake up, he preemptively confiscated their equipment to ensure they were incapable of resistance.


    He then checked the locator again and saw that the Russell family was drawing increasingly closer.


    ¡°Just wait a little longer,¡± he said in a deep voice.


    About ten minutester, the locator began to vibrate. Dexter nced up at her, signaling subtly. The two of them waited anxiously for a while. Shortly after, a faint knocking sound sounded from beneath the deck.


    Dexter breathed a sigh of relief and lifted the lidof the sewer. The other person eximed in a surprised yet hushed voice, ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s really you!¡±


    Dexter extended his hand at the man. ¡°Come up first.¡±


    He quickly climbed up, d in diving gear. While doing so, he said, ¡°I only brought ten of my guys with me. The rest are waiting on shore with lifeboats, ready to set off once anything happens.¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°That¡¯s enough people. How did you all get close?¡±


    ¡°When we were close enough, we jumped off the ship and swam over. No one noticed.¡±


    The other party scanned the warehouse, his gaze finallynding on Josie. Surprise was evident in his eyes, but he didn¡¯t ask any questions.


    Dexter patted him on the shoulder. ¡°Call the boys up and move all this cash.¡±


    Soon, ten men entered the warehouse through the pipeline. They all greeted Dexter and Josie in unison. However, one greeting was verbal, while the other was conveyed through a nce.

 Chapter 1197

    The cash was all sealed in stic, impervious to water, making things easy for them. They were all well-trained men, their actions swift and efficient. s, time was not on their side. The shift change approached, and a knock sounded on the door outside.


    Everyone stilled.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why aren¡¯t you guysing out yet?¡± asked a bodyguard outside.


    Dexter deepened his voice. ¡°Oh, there¡¯s an issue with the ship¡¯s cabin pipeline. We¡¯re working on it. Just give us a moment.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s an issue? How long will it take, and do you need any help?¡±


    During the conversation, a few men had silently and seamlessly positioned themselves behind the door.


    ¡°We¡¯reing.¡± Dexter stepped forward and opened the door right away.


    It was still three bodyguards this time. They were all dumbfounded at the sight of him. Just as they were about to react, the men in the warehouse made their move, swiftly pulling them in and pinning them to the ground.


    Dexter immediately closed the door.


    ¡°So, this is where you¡¯ve both been-¡±


    With a swift backhand strike, the bodyguard who was speaking promptly passed out.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, this isn¡¯t going to work. We have so much cash here. Without a ship to coordinate, it¡¯ll be incredibly difficult to move it all.¡±


    Naturally, Dexter had also realized that issue. Arnold¡¯s men were constantly watching the sea. Manpower aside, lifeboats simply couldn¡¯t approach.


    He turned to Josie. ¡°I¡¯ll go out and distract them. As soon as the pipeline opens, go with them immediately. Understood?¡±


    Josie parted her lips. Realizing his n, she immediately shook her head. ¡°No. If Arnold finds out it¡¯s you, he will definitely-¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll cover my face and stay low.¡±


    ¡°No way. You can¡¯t possibly defeat so many people alone. It¡¯s only a matter of time before you¡¯re discovered.¡±


    Dexter lowered his head slightly, locking eyes with her. ¡°I swear I will do my best. Right now, this is the only way.¡±


    Josie grasped his hand, still shaking her head. ¡°No way.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t pinpoint the reason she was soinsistent. Her fear of something happening to him far outweighed that of the mission failing, yet she couldn¡¯t voice it.


    The men witnessing that scene grew increasingly anxious and tried to dissuade him. ¡°Mr. Russell, you really shouldn¡¯t go. It¡¯s too dangerous. I¡¯ll go instead.¡±


    ¡°I can go, too!¡±


    ¡°Me, too!¡±


    Frowning, Dexter said somberly, ¡°You all have a more important task at hand.¡±


    At that, the men fell silent.


    ¡°Jo, go with them. Regardless of whether the cash can be moved, I must ensure your safety first.¡± Dexter suddenly called her by her nickname.


    Josie parted her lips. ¡°No. I¡¯m the one Arnold is looking for, so no matter what, I need to stay here.¡±


    The veins on the back of Dexter¡¯s hand popped up, but before he could utter another word, Josie asserted, ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±


    He swiftly held her back. ¡°I object!¡±


    ¡°Since I can¡¯t leave the ship anyway, I might as well carry out the n to the end. Dexter, listento me. You¡¯re not sacrificing me. Nor do you owe me anything. I will also do my best to buy you guys time. If you want to make it up to me, move all this cash!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was intense, and he remained nomittal.


    ¡°The win-win solution is for me to go,¡± Josie said, pulling her hand away. ¡°Get it together. I believe you can make the right decision.¡±


    In reality, only a few seconds had passed, but time seemed to drag out endlessly in that moment. Dexter finally relented, ¡°When the ship reaches shore, I want to see you.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curved into a smile. ¡°Absolutely. I still have Grape. I won¡¯t let anything happen to myself so easily.¡±


    ¡°Do you remember the re gun I gave you? Use it at the critical juncture.¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Josie nodded in affirmation.


    With time pressing, Josie swiftly took a stun baton from the bodyguard lying on the ground and tucked it away securely on her person before opening the door. She cast a nce back at Dexter, then quickly dashed out.


    As Dexter watched her disappear, his heart began to pound wildly.

 Chapter 1198

    With Arnold having dispatched all men to keep a watchful eye on the sea, the defense was ratherx. Coupled with it being the shift change, there was only one bodyguard at the far end, dozing off.


    Josie moved stealthily, her nerves stretched taut. As she neared her target, the bodyguard seemed to sense something amiss. Just as he was about to turn around, Josie, wielding a stun baton, shocked him into unconsciousness. He wore a look of disbelief on his face before he copsed.


    ¡°My apologies,¡± Josie said softly. Then, with all her strength, she dragged him into the restroom, stripped off his jacket, and put it on herself.


    The walkie-talkie crackled to life. ¡°Bemy, could you get Edmund for me? I can¡¯t seem to reach him. Ms. Yowell wants some lychees. Ask him to fetch some over.¡±


    Josie paused in changing her clothes. She then picked up the walkie-talkie, an idea suddenly forming in her mind.


    She deepened her voice. ¡°Just a moment.¡±


    The lychees were in cold storage, so finding them wasn¡¯t difficult. With her face covered, Josie cautiously made her way there. Relying on his memory, she then went to Josephine¡¯s room.


    When she was talking with Arnold earlier, there was a loud crash, and there happened to be a wooden nk on the ground at the end of the hallway. She deduced that it must have been Dexter¡¯s doing. She continued forward and saw a few bodyguards stationed outside a room.


    ¡°Stop right there! What are you doing here?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t dare lift her head, merely holding the lychees out. The other person understood immediately. ¡°You¡¯re not Edmund.¡±


    Josie feigned a guttural voice. ¡°Edmund has been held up by other matters and sent me in his stead.¡±


    ¡°How troublesome. Go on in.¡± The man opened the door and pushed Josie into the room.


    Stumbling a few steps, she entered Josephine¡¯s boudoir. The wind howled outside, but it was a picture of gentle tranquility inside. A womany by the window with her long legs absurdly sprawled, gazing out at the sea.


    Josephine was on the phone with her father.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Dad, nothing will happen to me with Robyn here. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be careful. You¡¯re losing sleep over such a trivial matter? I¡¯ll be back tomorrow. Yes¡­ He¡¯s very good to me. Dad, I really like him. If you want me to have a marriage alliance, you might as well let me marry him.¡±


    The person on the other end said something or other, and the call ended.


    Only then did Josephine notice Josie. Nheless, her attention was on the lychees in thetter¡¯s hand. ¡°Come over here.¡±


    Josie lowered her head and walked over.


    ¡°Peel the skin off.¡±


    Words eluded Josie. Sure enough, she¡¯s a spoiled daughter of an elite family! She took a lychee, peeled it, and brought it to Josephine¡¯s mouth. Thetter parted her lips and bit on it, her smile nothing short of innocent.


    ¡°My apologies. If it weren¡¯t for the rule against bringing servants, I wouldn¡¯t have had to trouble you all.¡±


    Unexpectedly, she has impable manners though.


    Josie cleared her throat quietly, putting on a deep voice. ¡°It¡¯s our job.¡±


    Josephine nced at her. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen you around Robyn before. Where are you from?¡±


    ¡°I guard the cold stage and am hardly qualified to be around Mr. Mills.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t belittle yourself. As long as you have the ability, you¡¯ll certainly be valued by Robyn.¡±


    Well, she¡¯s also quite adept atforting others.


    Josie meticulously peeled the lychees one by one, and Josephine ate them tirelessly. Gazing at the sea, she continued, ¡°Have you ever seen Robyn? What kind of person do you think he is?¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart jolted. ¡°I¡¯ve had the fortune of seeing him a few times. Mr. Mills¡­ Mr. Mills¡­ is a man of great capability and ambition.¡±


    She practically spoke through gritted teeth.


    Josephine couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°Indeed, he is.¡±


    She was about the same age as Josie, yet her innocent enthusiasm remained. Somehow, Josie found herself saying more than intended. ¡°But for someone like you, Ms. Yowell, Mr. Mills may not be the best choice.¡±

 Chapter 1199

    She thought Josephine would be angry. However, Josephine merely hugged her knees and sighed. ¡°Even you can tell. My father said the same thing. But I truly like him. I¡¯ve never liked anyone this much in my entire life.¡±


    Josie also sighed inwardly.


    ¡°When I first met him, I was in the midst of escaping from a blind date and was being pursued relentlessly. It was he who stumbled upon me and rescued me. Hey, do you believe in love at first sight? I think what I¡¯ve been searching for is a man like him, full of raw masculinity. No matter what he does, I can ept it.¡±


    This woman is brave and devoted. Yet, when these two traitsbine, it is bound to result in tragedy. Josie could easily guess that Arnold deliberately set this up so that Josephine could get closer to him.


    There wasn¡¯t a shred of spontaneity in it.


    Finally, she lifted her gaze to meet Josephine¡¯s. Thetter had already snapped back to reality and was about to continue eating when she noticed Josie¡¯s delicate hand. Josephine was momentarily stunned. ¡°This-¡± It¡¯s clearly not a man¡¯s hand.


    Josie reacted even quicker than Josephine. In an instant, she pulled out another gun from her waist and aimed it at Josephine¡¯s head. Hergaze hardened in a split second. ¡°Ms. Yowell,e down yourself. Bullets aren¡¯t discerning. I don¡¯t think you have the courage to jump into the sea, right?¡±


    Josephine stared at Josie in even greater astonishment. ¡°Your voice. You¡¯re¡­¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Josie directly removed her face mask, revealing her bare face. ¡°We¡¯ve met before.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s you!¡± Josephine covered her mouth, about to scream for help. Josie swiftly pulled Josephine down from the window, restraining thetter with one hand. ¡°Quiet!¡±


    Having cared for a child for over a year, her strength was naturally much greater than that of a delicate daughter of an elite family like Josephine. Josephine simply couldn¡¯t break free.


    ¡°What are you trying to do? The streets are swarming with Robyn¡¯s men. You¡¯ll be killed the moment you step outside!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll surely die if I go out there alone, but with you, it¡¯s a different story,¡± Josie said, leading Josephine step by step toward the outside. ¡°Have them open the door.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t surrender to you. I knew it. You¡¯re not an assistant at all!¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not his assistant. Ms. Yowell, Iadvise you to keep your distance from him. Don¡¯t risk your future for him. Make sure you remember my words of wisdom.¡± Josie stood firm at the doorway, repeating hermand, ¡°I said, have them open the door!¡±


    Josephine couldn¡¯t bear to hear that advice from Josie, someone Josephine figured was pretending to have experienced what she was undergoing. She gritted her teeth. ¡°Who do you think you are? Do you really think you understand so well?¡±


    From outside, the sound of an argument could be heard. Someone attempted to knock on the door. ¡°Ms. Yowell, what¡¯s wrong? Do you need any help?¡±


    Josie stared at Josephine.


    Left with no other choice, Josephine managed to squeeze out a response. ¡°Open the door.¡±


    The other party outside the door was confused. Still, after a moment of hesitation, the door was opened. The people outside were fully armed, but upon seeing Josie holding Josephine hostage, they were all stunned. ¡°You!¡±


    Several guns were pointed at Josie.


    Josie pointed her gun at Josephine¡¯s temple. ¡°Think carefully. Is it worth trading my life for Josephine¡¯s?¡±


    The man leading the group was sweating profusely. He pressed on his walkie-talkie and spoke. ¡°Quickly inform Mr. Mills! Josie has taken Ms. Yowell hostage!¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t try to stop them. She simply kept moving forward. ¡°Everyone, out of my way.¡±


    She dragged the fiercely struggling Josephine, step by step, onto the expansive deck. However, her energy was limited due to the intense mental strain.


    Josie lowered her gaze and said to Josephine, ¡°Aren¡¯t you so in love with him that you¡¯d die for him? Why not make a bet?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s bet whether he cares about you just as much.¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s make a bet, then.¡±


    A look of uncertainty crossed Josephine¡¯s face as if a thought had suddenly struck her, and she ceased her struggle.

 Chapter 1200

    Arnold rushed to the scene at once. He radiated an aggressive aura. Then, he saw Josie holding Josephine hostage and standing at the edge of the deck. They would be falling into the deep sea if they were to take another step forward.


    At that moment, Josephine hadpletely lost her mind. ¡°Robyn, save me!¡±


    Arnold drew a gun, aiming it at Josie. Behind him, countless bodyguards also raised their weapons.


    ¡°Josie, let her go!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a woman. Is it really necessary to involve so many people, Arnold? Are you that scared?¡± Josieughed, her hair dancing wildly in the wind.


    Josephine¡¯s movements noticeably paused. ¡°What did you call him? What Arnold?¡±


    Josie scanned the bodyguards around her, realizing that nearly the entire crew of the ship was present. She was confident that Dexter¡¯s men could handle the escort ships nearby.


    Arnold tried his best to remain calm, yet the tremor in his voice betrayed his anxiety. ¡°I have no intention of jeopardizing your safety. Release the hostage, and once we reach the shore, I¡¯ll let you go home.¡±


    He was indeed deeply concerned aboutJosephine¡¯s safety.However, Josephine merely registered that Arnold hadn¡¯t answered her question. She fell into an utter daze. Is his name a fabrication?


    Josie shook her head at Arnold. ¡°Let¡¯s make a deal.¡±


    Arnold never gave a response the whole time.


    ¡°It seems I¡¯ve made the right bet. Josephine means a lot to you. Here¡¯s the deal. Have your men stop transporting the goods, and then I¡¯ll let Josephine go.¡±


    ¡°What goods? This ship itself is what I¡¯m supposed to transport!¡±


    ¡°You must think I¡¯m a fool. Even without Dexter¡¯s help, I can guess you have a backup n, Arnold. I don¡¯t care about this ship, but those transporting the goods must stop!¡±


    Arnold held his gun steady, not a hint of hesitation in his movements. He still didn¡¯t give a direct answer. Instead, he said, ¡°You¡¯ve got quite the nerve. Are you courting death?¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°Why don¡¯t you try, then? Let¡¯s see if Josephine or I will die first?¡±


    She looked down at Josephine in her arms, who was trembling violently. ¡°Save me. Whoever you are, save me.¡±


    ¡°Josephine, you¡¯ll be fine,¡± he assured her.


    The sniper¡¯s voice came through Arnold¡¯s earpiece. ¡°My position is tricky, Mr. Carter, but I can take Josie out with one shot. I¡¯m just waiting for your go-ahead.¡±


    A gleam shed across Arnold¡¯s gaze. ¡°Josie, if you die here, it means you¡¯ll never see your daughter, your father, or even Dexter again. Is it worth it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s palms were drenched in sweat. From her vantage point, she could see, out of the corner of her eye, lifeboats, one after another, approaching the warehouse. Dexter had seeded, and she had done her best to buy time.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your first day knowing me. To me, being able to salvage more families is a form of atonement. Arnold, I don¡¯t regret knowing you. My only regret is that I wasn¡¯t able to guide you onto the right path.¡±


    Listening to Josie¡¯s heartfelt and caring words during the most critical and tense situation, Arnold remained silent.


    ¡°Of course, I yearn to return home. Do you feel the same, yearning for a reunion with your family and to no longer live under a false identity and do other¡¯s bidding? Arnold, I¡¯ve known you for a while now. I know you¡¯re actually very lonely. You¡¯ve done all thesethings because you had no other choice. You don¡¯t want to stay a wanderer forever, do you?¡±


    Two people were visibly shaken upon hearing her words. Josephine looked at Josie with an expression of disbelief. In her mind, Arnold was an ambitious man, not some pitiful wanderer. The way Josie described him waspletely contrary to Josephine¡¯s understanding of him.


    At the same time, Arnold¡¯s hand holding the gun discreetly shook for a moment.


    The sniper anxiously said, ¡°Mr. Carter, if we don¡¯t act now, it¡¯ll be toote!¡±

 Chapter 1201

    ¡°Or are you worried about hurting Ms. Yowell? Rest assured. I am absolutely confident that I can bring about Josie¡¯s demise!¡±


    Arnold closed his eyes. Should I let her die? This woman, who¡¯s so full of herself, yet ironically the one who understands me best in the entire world? Howughable. As death looms, I¡¯m surprisingly feeling a tinge of reluctance.


    The entire ship was in panic mode. Josie stood at the end of the light, her demeanor calm and resolute, as if she was prepared to face death with grace.


    No one saw it, but beneath the deck, Dexter sat in the lifeboat, looking up at the person he loved most above him. She was resolutely risking her life, yet he was unable to reach out and save her.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, we must leave now. We can¡¯t disappoint Ms. Warren and let her sacrifice go to waste.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s heart palpitations grew increasingly severe, to the point where he could hardly catch his breath.


    ¡°How much cash has been transported?¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Only a quarter was left. We tried our best.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±


    The sniper spoke incessantly. ¡°Mr. Carter, think it through. If something goes wrong with this escort mission, what will you do? Mr. Dalton will definitely hold you ountable, not to mention Rivodia¡¯s-¡±


    ¡°Enough.¡± Arnold spoke up, his gaze fixed on Josie. Suddenly, he pulled the trigger. The bullet whizzed past Josie¡¯s leg, the searing pain forcing her to her knees. Josephine found liberation from Josie¡¯s shackles.


    Just when everyone was ready to strike, Arnold was the first to stride forward. He helped Josie, who had fainted and fallen to the ground, to her feet. He handcuffed her and called out, ¡°Men!¡±


    Josephine fell onto the deck, watching helplessly as the man she loved walked past her, moving toward another woman.


    After Josie was led away by someone, Arnold finally approached Josephine. His tone was gentle as he reassured her, ¡°It¡¯s okay now. She wouldn¡¯t have actually shot you.¡±


    What about his hesitation earlier, then? Josephine couldn¡¯t bear to think more about it. Her eyes brimmed with tears. ¡°It seems like you two understand each other very well.¡±


    Arnold crouched down. ¡°We were once friends through life and death.¡±


    ¡°Friends through life and death¡­¡± Josephinemurmured. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Arnold came clean. ¡°Arnold Carter. Your father knows.¡±


    Josephine looked up. It all makes sense now. No wonder Father had been so worried before. This man, even his name was a lie.


    She felt drained. After what seemed like an eternity, she grasped Arnold¡¯s warm hand. ¡°Do you love me?¡±


    The sea breeze was brisk, and Arnold revealed a tender, sympathetic smile. He reached out, cradling her face in his hands. ¡°Of course. You will be the only woman I ever marry.¡±


    Josephine was moved to tears of joy after listening to his response. ¡°Is this a proposal?¡±


    Arnold brushed her hair. ¡°If we can survive tomorrow, I will propose to you in a grandermanner.¡±


    The fear and anxiety that had consumed her throughout the night dissipated at that instant.


    When Josie awoke, her gaze met the wooden ceiling above her. Turning her head, she saw the broad silhouette of a man standing by the window, the ship still sailing on.


    As Arnold turned around, she immediately shut her eyes and continued to feignunconsciousness.


    He sat by her bedside, lifting her face gently. ¡°Are you done pretending? That bullet didn¡¯t even hit its mark. Why are you even pretending to pass out?¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t bother pretending anymore. She leisurely opened her eyes. ¡°You could have hit the mark. Why didn¡¯t you? Are you afraid of hurting me?¡±


    Arnold pinched her cheek. His bullet packed a powerful punch. If it had truly hit her, she could have kissed walking goodbye for the rest of her life.


    He lowered his voice and said, ¡°Josie, I yearn to tear you to pieces!¡±


    Josie was not only unafraid, but she evenughed. ¡°It seems I¡¯ve won this bet.¡±


    ¡°The boat hasn¡¯t yet reached the shore. How could there be talk of win or lose?¡± She had put him in a tough spot. Arnold exerted more force and asked, ¡°Tell me. How did you summon those people?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±

 Chapter 1202

    ¡°Three-quarters of the cash was stolen, and you¡¯re saying it has nothing to do with you?¡±


    Not long ago, when the bodyguard came to report, he was so frightened that he fell to his knees. ¡°The guards have all copsed in the warehouse. T-The cash is gone too¡­¡±


    No sooner had the words been spoken than Arnold¡¯s entire face changed color. In the end, he was almostughing in exasperation. ¡°You wench. You¡¯re quite something!¡±


    ¡°You know, I¡¯m just one person. How could I possibly have managed to move so much cash by myself?¡±


    Arnold nodded. ¡°We had just left the port of Wavery not long ago. It seems they made their move while you were holding Josephine hostage. In Wavery, who could possibly do your bidding?¡±


    Josie listened to Arnold¡¯s analysis. He immediately dismissed the idea of the police being involved. ¡°The Olsen family? Impossible. If it were them, they could have destroyed my boat. Considering the level of caution and meticulousness, the party involved could only be the Russells.¡±


    As expected, he knows me like the back of his hand. Josie changed the subject. ¡°Arnold, aren¡¯t you worried now that the money is gone? Mr. Dalton will surely want you dead. It seems we¡¯redestined to meet our end here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m certain it¡¯s the Russells,¡± he continued, affirming his spection. ¡°It seems Dexter was also involved.¡±


    ¡°You guessed right,¡± Josie responded immediately. ¡°But Dexter was unaware. Don¡¯t forget that before Old Mr. Russell passed away, he left me many things. Among them was the authority tomand the Russells, having them do my bidding. It wasn¡¯t difficult.¡±


    Arnold turned her face toward him, forcing her to look at him directly. ¡°Whether Dexter knows or not isn¡¯t important. What¡¯s crucial is that he¡¯s about to find out.¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart sank. ¡°What are you trying to do!¡±


    Arnold had already risen. Without his support, she tumbled off the bed.


    He looked down at her from his superior position. ¡°As long as you are in my hands, what wouldn¡¯t Dexter dare to do? I¡¯ll make sure he obediently returns all that cash.¡±


    Josie¡¯s pupils dted, a sense of foreboding washing over her.


    ¡°You always assumed I¡¯d be exceptionally tolerant with you, Josie, but you were mistaken.¡± Arnold strode out, instructing his bodyguards, ¡°Dock the ship for a rest and throwher into the water dungeon.¡±


    Upon receiving his orders, the bodyguard promptly stepped forward, dragging Josie toward the exit. As her skin scraped against the floor, it immediately left a trail of red marks.


    The water dungeon, as the name suggested, was surrounded by sturdy stone walls. It was a two-tiered structure, with a water reservoir on one level and a prison cell on the other. Once the mechanism was activated, water from the reservoir would flood the cell, causing anyone inside to suffocate within a short period of time.


    Josie was locked in the cell, the water level rising to her chest and still gradually increasing. She couldn¡¯t take deep breaths, nor could she sit down to rest. That kind of torment was nothing short of a slow torture.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She tilted her head back, the only lighting from above. Arnold was standing right there, holding up his phone to record. ¡°Do you think Dexter will lose his mind if he sees this?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Josie struggled desperately, the chains thrashing in the water, sending up sprays. ¡°Don¡¯t be a coward! This is all my doing. He has nothing to do with it!¡±


    Arnold crouched down, aiming for a clearer shot. ¡°From this moment on, it will! You asked ifI should have fired that shot. If I had really killed you, where would my leverage be?¡±


    So, this is what he¡¯s been aiming to achieve. Josie finally gained rity. When it came to cunning, she would never be able to outwit him.


    Arnold¡¯s expression was cold and indifferent, his gaze devoid of any affection as he looked at her. He instructed his bodyguard, ¡°Don¡¯t add any more water. Let her stay just like this. I don¡¯t want her to die yet.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    However, even such intensity was enough to ravage a person¡¯s body and torment their will.

 Chapter 1203

    At four in the morning, by the docks of Wavery, a man stood alone in the wind. The atmosphere around him was so intense that it was nearly impossible to approach him. The only sound was the rhythmicpping of the sea against the shore, creating an eerie silence that was almost unbearable.


    Calvin had raced over in his car. Upon witnessing the scene, he was momentarily taken aback before quickly stepping forward. ¡°If ites to it, I¡¯ll bring a few teams and confront him directly. We have to fight, no matter what.¡±


    Dexter stared out at the distant sea, where Arnold¡¯s ship had long since departed. His voice was restrained and deep as he said, ¡°See for yourself.¡±


    Calvin paused, taking the phone from Dexter¡¯s hand. A video was ying on the screen. In it, Josie was bound in water, half of her body submerged. She was cursing Arnold, calling him a monster, her voice filled with agony.


    Her anguished cries were like knives, piercing deeply into Dexter¡¯s heart.


    Calvin was immediately at a loss for words. Arnold has a hostage in his hands. A firefight is out of the question. Dexter has too many considerations to take into ount.


    The attendant of the Russell family gritted histeeth and said, ¡°If it reallyes to it, we¡¯ll just return the money. Trading it for a life will be worth it no matter what.¡±


    ¡°No way!¡± A voice echoed from behind, unmistakably Caleb¡¯s. He had rushed over in haste, leading his team. ¡°Compromising with Arnold at this point is akin to digging our own graves. Do you think he¡¯s after money? What he wants is Dexter¡¯s endless submission!¡±


    Dexter remained silent. His heart palpitations never truly subsided. However, at that moment, he had no choice but to muster all his strength to stay calm.


    Arnold sent the video ten minutes ago, ending it with a statement. ¡°Dexter, I want to see how far you¡¯re willing to go for her.¡±


    Aboard the ship, Arnold neverid a hand on Josie. Even he thought he wasn¡¯t so heartless and cruel. He believed that Josie could escape danger through her own abilities. As long as they left the country, he would be able to save her.


    However, Arnold discovered the warehouse theft ahead of time.


    Upon seeing that video, Dexter immediately knocked over the cup of coffee in front of him. He was consumed by immense anger and regret.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Dexter, this is the moment where your determination is put to the test. As long as you don¡¯t give in, Arnold¡¯s scheme will be foiled.¡±


    Finally, Dexter couldn¡¯t hold back any longer. His voice trembled slightly as he spoke. ¡°And what about her? She could die!¡±


    Caleb was stunned by Dexter¡¯s roar. Caleb¡¯s anxiety was also bing palpable. ¡°You¡¯ve forgotten. We have spies by Wayne¡¯s side. One of them is on the ship today. I¡¯ll find a way to rescue her.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t believe in such promises. He snatched the phone back. ¡°Arnold is after me. He won¡¯t back down so easily if I don¡¯t make my stance clear.¡±


    As he spoke, he dialed a number on his phone. ¡°Make the call. I want to meet with Wayne.¡±


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Caleb stormed forward, his voice filled with fury. ¡°Do you have any idea how much time we¡¯ve spent setting up this operation? How many of ourrades are out there on the front lines? If you run off to find Wayne, what about the transport of the goods? What about the cash here? How am I supposed to trust you if you¡¯re dropping the ball at the most critical moment?¡±


    Dexter raised his voice as well and enunciated, ¡°Mr. Zabinski! How can I keep calm if Arnold is holding her hostage?¡±


    The wind was fierce by the sea. Tension hung in the air as the atmosphere reached a fever pitch.


    Calvin was the first to step forward to diffuse the tension. ¡°Mr. Zabinski, let me apany him. I believe Dexter will find a solution. After all, a person¡¯s life is at stake right now.¡±


    ¡°I know that. I mentioned there was an undercover. Since Josie willingly took part in this operation, that proved she¡¯s far from being someone who disregarded the bigger picture-¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Dexter had already taken the lead, striding past a crowd of people and leaving. His retreating figure radiated suppressed rage and a murderous aura, emotions he hadn¡¯t openly disyed in many years.

 Chapter 1204

    Caleb was still worried. He hurried forward and advised, ¡°Dexter, you¡¯re acting too impulsively!¡±


    Even Caleb himself couldn¡¯t have imagined that this adjective would be used to describe Dexter.


    ¡°Do you still consider me the backbone of this situation?¡± Dexter suddenly stopped in his tracks.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°As long as you make the right choice, of course, it still stands.¡±


    ¡°In that case, just leave me alone.¡±


    Dexter dropped his final words and promptly climbed into Calvin¡¯s car. Subsequently, the car sped off.


    Calvin frantically gestured at Calvin through the back mirror, his actions conveying a clear message that he would keep an eye on Dexter.


    Larry quickly ryed the news. After disembarking, Wayne hadn¡¯t gone far. He was at the junction of the Rivodia-Wavery border. However, Wayne was currently resting and not receiving any visitors.


    Dexter sneered. ¡°Can he even rest well now?¡±


    In the end, Caleb still had faith in Dexter. He ordered the Department of Transportation to close off the route for Dexter, ensuring his journey would be unimpeded. By the timeDexter arrived, it was half past four in the morning.


    In this season, the sky was already on the brink of dawn.


    Josie was still trapped in the water dungeon, where every second was fraught with danger. Dexter was racing against time to save her.


    He sat in the car, gazing at the tightly shut mansion gates, his expression inscrutable. After a moment, he pulled out his phone and dialed a number.


    No one answered.


    Dexter sat in the car, swapping one SIM card after another, dialing the same number over and over again.


    Calvin was stunned by the sight. ¡°Will Mr. Dalton answer the call?¡±


    ¡°Everything is falling apart. He has to even if he doesn¡¯t want to.¡±


    No sooner had the words left his lips than the phone call connected. It was a mechanically altered voice that came through. ¡°Mr. Russell, calling me thiste isn¡¯t very gentlemanly of you.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s face was expressionless as he stared at the light that hade on in the mansion.


    ¡°Arnold kidnapped my woman.¡±


    The single remark prompted the person on the other end of the line to fall silent for a few seconds. Immediately afterward, the attendant¡¯s hurried footsteps echoed.


    Since something was amiss on the ship, Arnold would surely suppress the news, ensuring it didn¡¯t reach Wayne. However, Dexter took a direct approach, bypassing Arnold entirely. He went straight to Wayne to discuss the matter.


    ¡°Oh, who¡¯s that?¡± Wayne expressed with a hint of surprise.


    ¡°My ex-wife.¡±


    There was a pause on the other end of the line once again. After a few seconds, he covered the receiver and exchanged a few words with the attendant.


    Dexter, however, didn¡¯t give him a chance. ¡°§®§Ô. Dalton, this is not how business is done. Anything goes on the surface, but when ites to human lives, it¡¯s illegal.¡±


    His words wereced with threats.


    ¡°He used me, both overtly and covertly, of taking his things such as money and cash. To make such a serious usation without any evidence is surely crossing a line. Outsiders who don¡¯t know better might think you¡¯redeliberately targeting me, Mr. Dalton. That wouldn¡¯t be favorable.¡±


    Dexter sat in the driver¡¯s seat, his face expressionless as he stared straight ahead. Before long, the mansion¡¯s gates swung open, revealing the opulent manor within.


    Wayne said over the phone, ¡°Pleasee in for a discussion.¡±


    Dexter pushed the car door open and was about to enter alone. Calvin tried to stop him. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. You don¡¯t have anyone with you.¡±


    Dexter nced at him. ¡°Isn¡¯t it enough to have you?¡±


    That was an absolute trust between buddies.


    The manor was merely a temporary residence, yet it was well-staffed with numerous servants. Dexter entered alone, unimpeded, making his way up to the third floor. The study was spacious, and as soon as he stepped in, the door automatically closed behind him.


    It seemed that Wayne was genuinely asleep at that time. His mask wasn¡¯t as exquisite as before, barely concealing his face. He sat in the seat of honor, his gaze piercing. ¡°Mr. Russell, I¡¯ve been informed about the situation. Regarding Josie, I can assure you that she will be safe.¡±


    Dexter stood off to the side, waiting for Wayne to utter his subsequent sentence. ¡°However, she has to first pay some price.¡±

 Chapter 1205

    The sound of the sea gentlypping filled Josie¡¯s ears. She wanted to escape, to cover her ears, but she was powerless to do so.


    She was entirely engulfed by the rushing water, on the verge of gasping for breath in the next second. Her body yearned to copse from exhaustion, yet she was restrained by chains.


    ¡°Josie.¡± A distant voice suddenly echoed, rousing Josie from her daze.


    With great difficulty, she forced her eyes open. She saw several ovepping images before her, which, after a long while, slowly coalesced into a single figure. The person was Josephine.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Josie asked, her voice weak and devoid of energy.


    ¡°I¡¯ve done my research. You are Robyn, no, Arnold¡¯s romantic encounter in Wavery two years ago. You¡¯re quite a spectacle of a woman. No wonder you had the audacity to bet with me just now.¡±


    She crouched above the water dungeon, her head bowed as she intently observed Josie¡¯s agonized and miserable state.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Josie¡¯s attention was diverted. She let out a scoff. ¡°Ms. Yowell, do you think you¡¯ve won?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re trapped here now, so how could I have not won?¡±


    Josie continued tough. ¡°Even though that bullet hit my leg, he did pull the trigger, Ms. Yowell. At that moment, he didn¡¯t consider your safety.¡±


    Josephine¡¯s smile faltered for a moment but she quickly rposed herself. ¡°That was because he knew you wouldn¡¯t pull the trigger.¡±


    ¡°He knows me very well.¡±


    ¡°So, why- The two women locked eyes, and Josephine abruptly stopped talking.


    Regardless of how that matter was viewed, Josie hadn¡¯t lost. Knowing each other well enough was a form of tacit understanding.


    Josephine was still unwilling to admit defeat. ¡°What you¡¯re trying to tell me is that he doesn¡¯t love me but loves you instead? However, just a moment ago, he was honest with me about everything. At the very least, I¡¯m willing to believe him. Don¡¯t tter yourself too much. Mind your own business. Being too full of oneself never ends well.¡±


    Initially, Josie assumed Josephine was nothing more than a naive youngdy who had been deceived. However, it turned out that Josephine was far from innocent. Even if she was being fooled, she still chose to be with Arnold.


    ¡°You¡¯re really¡­¡± Josie let out augh. ¡°Did he tell you about his past? Do you know how manyfamilies he¡¯s torn apart and how many people he¡¯s hurt?¡±


    ¡°My father once told me that in the course of history, there¡¯s always a need for some who dare to be defiant. We should be grateful for them.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. It seems like this youngdy has been sessfully brainwashed.


    ¡°You¡¯repeting with me now, and indeed, I can¡¯tpare to you. But let me tell you. There¡¯s no need for you to do this because I¡¯ve never loved him.¡±


    Josephine was taken aback. She¡¯s right. She never loved him, so why am Ipeting with her?


    At that moment, all her airs of superiority instantly faded.


    Josephine stood up. ¡°Then what was the purpose of all that you did today?¡±


    It seems that Arnold hasn¡¯t actually told her everything, at least not about me. He hasn¡¯te clean. Josie moved her neck slightly. ¡°For my own sake.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it,¡± said Josephine. She was no fool. There¡¯s no way she took such a huge risk simply for this reason.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to continue the conversation. ¡°Do you know Summer?¡±


    It seemed as if Josephine was reminiscing. She asked with uncertainty, ¡°Which Summer are you referring to?¡±


    ¡°Forget it. If Arnold gets mad because I talk about him behind his back, he will pin the me on me. By then, I won¡¯t be able to endure his wrath.¡±


    ¡°rify yourself!¡± Josephine was getting impatient.


    Josephine remembered there was such a person, but she had nothing to do with Arnold.


    Josie was unwilling to speak anymore.


    Josephine was getting frantic. She pushed past the bodyguard who was keeping watch. ¡°Move aside!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Yowell, Mr. Carter said-¡±


    ¡°Move out of my way!¡± Josephine roared in anger, then gripped the water valve tightly, turning it on without hesitation.

 Chapter 1206

    The water in the dungeon suddenly tilted downward, the water level rising to reach Josie¡¯s neck.


    Her struggles proved futile, and she closed her eyes, awaiting her impending drowning.


    Josephine turned off the water valve and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t speak up, I¡¯ll turn it back on, and you¡¯ll surely die.¡±


    Josie, however, remained incrediblyposed. ¡°If I die, you¡¯ll die too.¡±


    ¡°Even on the brink of death, you¡¯re still so defiant. I doubt you¡¯ll have the chance to witness my demise.¡±


    Josephine tried to turn the water valve again, but the bodyguard held her back. He shook his head and said, ¡°We can¡¯t drown her yet. Mr. Carter needs her alive for his ns, so she can¡¯t die now!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point? She¡¯s just a woman! Move aside!¡±


    ¡°I really can¡¯t let this happen, Ms. Yowell!¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    As the two continued to argue above, Josie was utterly exhausted. Her legs were weak, barely able to keep her standing. Finally, she found the strength to speak up. ¡°Summer Olsen¡­¡±


    Upon hearing her voice, Josephine turned to his side, waiting for her next words.


    ¡°I suppose Arnold promised to be with you for a lifetime, even going so far as to tell you that you¡¯re the only woman he would ever marry.¡±


    When Josie spoke these words, she clearly saw a flicker of uncertainty cross Josephine¡¯s face. ¡°I advise you to first find out who Summer is, then investigate whether Arnold can actually marry you.¡±


    Josephine was no fool, but she still firmly believed in Arnold. ¡°He wouldn¡¯t deceive me.¡±


    Josie fell silent, finding nothing more to say to a lovestruck fool like her.


    Josephine paused for a moment, but in the end, she stepped out of the prison. Once outside, she immediately made a phone call.


    ¡°Dad?¡±


    ¡°How are you doing, Josephine? Are you close to your destination?¡± The voice on the other end was evidently filled with worry, having been up all night.


    ¡°Not yet, Dad, Can you help me look up someone?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Summer Olsen.¡±


    Inside the water dungeon, Josie tilted her head upwards. Noticing a camera pointed directly at her, she said with a strained voice, ¡°I know you¡¯re watching. If you really have the guts, then tell Josephine the truth. You¡¯ll gain nothing in the end by exploiting a woman¡¯s love for you.¡±


    There was no response.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Are you so certain that she won¡¯t leave you, even after knowing the truth? You¡¯re overly confident.¡±


    Still, there was no response.


    ¡°Kill me!¡± Sshes of water erupted as Josie stood on the brink of her defenses copsing. Her voice echoed. ¡°You might as well kill me directly. I look down on you for tormenting me like this!¡±


    After a moment, a voice finally came through the camera. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have said those things to Josephine if I were you.¡±


    It was cold andced with mockery.


    ¡°Since I was the one who brought her aboard, I obviously had my reasons. You¡¯re too foolish, Josie.¡±


    These words felt like a divine torment.


    ¡°She was an innocent, even kind-hearted woman. If you pleaded with her, there was a chance she might secretly let you go. Josie, you¡¯ve made another wrong move. Weren¡¯t you always the best at ying coy and acting vulnerable? Why have you stopped?¡±


    He response was dripping with irony. Josie was on the brink of madness at that point. The seawater was corroding her entire body, pushing her to the edge of copse.


    ¡°Just go ahead and kill me.¡±


    ¡°The video had already been sent to Dexter, and I am eagerly anticipating his next move.¡±


    At that time, in Wayne¡¯s study.


    ¡°Price? What do you want, Mr. Dalton?¡±


    Dexter leaned back in his chair, his expression suddenly turning sinister.


    ¡°When you snatched that piece ofnd from my grasp, your methods were so decisive and swift. You must have relished the taste of victory, Mr. Russell. Now, it¡¯s my turn.¡±


    The mask on Wayne¡¯s face was both enigmatic and bewildering.


    ¡°I yield.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t even blink an eye when he said that.


    ¡°Such a quick agreement. It seems I should have asked for more,¡± Wayne said, somewhat taken aback.

 Chapter 1207

    ¡°It¡¯s just a piece ofnd, so I¡¯m letting it go. After all, she is the biological mother of my child. I don¡¯t want her to lose her mother¡¯s love at such a young age.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression was nonchnt, as if he was merely discussing what to have for breakfast.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    The sky outside was gradually brightening.


    ¡°Oh? You traveled a great distance to chase her down here and chose to give up such valuable resources, all because she is the mother of your child?¡±


    ¡°Why else would I do that? Did you really think I¡¯m obligated to give so much for an ex-wife?¡±


    When he pretended to be cold and indifferent, he was truly convincing, with no signs of his facade cracking.


    Wayne¡¯s voice lowered. ¡°That cash needs to be returned.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do that. It¡¯s not something I did, so where would I find so much money topensate you?¡± Dexter admitted honestly.


    ¡°So, you are determined to deny everything regardless of the consequences. Arnold¡¯s methods can be quite harsh, so she could very well die.¡±


    Through his mask, Wayne studied the man before him, trying to discern his true emotions. Yet, Dexter said, ¡°That piece ofnd is worth hundreds of millions. For the sake of our child, I¡¯m willing to give it to you. But the funds on that ship are worth more than hundreds of millions. I can¡¯t afford to give any more than that.¡±


    ¡°You weighed the pros and cons quite well. It seems you also agree she isn¡¯t worth that price, Mr. Russell.¡±


    He was testing the waters.


    ¡°Of course she¡¯s not worth it. There are plenty of women in this world. It wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to find another mother for the child.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯ve heard that in recent years, you haven¡¯t sought anyone else. It¡¯s almost as if you¡¯ve withdrawn from the world. Thest time I saw you, you were tending to those flowers and nts. It¡¯s because you¡¯re still in love and can¡¯t let go, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Dexter gave a slight nod. ¡°I simply grew tired of women, that¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°When Russell Group¡¯s board tried to impeach you, it was Josie who stepped forward to save you.¡±


    Dexter slowly broke into a smile. ¡°You sure know everything about me.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same with you?¡±


    Only then did Dexter lean forward, dip his fingertip in coffee, and draw a circle on the table. ¡°Thest time we met, it was at a church in Wavery. Mr. Dalton, you hade specifically to find me, attempting to secure the final rights to that piece ofnd. I advised you that knowing when to stop is the safest approach.¡±


    ¡°Knowing when to quit is not always the best strategy in business.¡±


    Dexter nodded. ¡°You have a deep understanding of capital coordination.¡±


    Wayne turned his head, taking another nce at the sky.


    ¡°And this time, you directly asked me for that piece ofnd. It¡¯s likely to be targeted. Aren¡¯t you afraid of drawing attention?¡± Before Wayne could respond, Dexter drew a question mark in the circle and continued, ¡°Of course, I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re not scared. After all, you have the backing of the Lucas from Rivodia.¡±


    Wayne chuckled lightly. ¡°Your information is quiteprehensive.¡±


    ¡°What about Wavery?¡± Dexter suddenly became serious. The two exchanged intense, sidelong nces.


    Wayne¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Didn¡¯t you find out about that, Mr. Russell?¡±


    ¡°Josie can die, but the Olsen family wouldn¡¯t let you off the hook if she did. From what I know, even the mayor in Wavery would have to show Mark some respect. Is it worth it?¡±


    ¡°What about the Russell family?¡± Wayne suddenly asked.


    Dexter¡¯s expression remained unchanged, ¡°With her death, the storm will rise again. You won¡¯t be able to enjoy your leisure as you do now. When your support falls, would there even be a need for me to step in?¡±


    Having analyzed the pros and cons up to this point, it seemed Wayne had understood. ¡°So, you¡¯vee to advise me. Such kindness is more than I can bear.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve always been curious about who the real power behind Wavery is. Now, I find myself oddly anticipating Josie¡¯s death. Once she¡¯s gone, Mark will have no choice but to reveal the truth.¡±


    Wayne believed that Mark would surely take advantage of the fight between both parties.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, Arnold is impulsive, I can¡¯t control him.¡±

 Chapter 1208

    ¡°Inflicting a thousand wounds on the enemy, but suffering eight hundred in return, huh?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t rush either. He leaned back, maintaining hisposure as he negotiated with the enigmatic man before him.


    Wayne was also looking at him. ¡°Dexter, to be honest, the one I wanted to choose back then was actually you. Despiteing from a broken home and being shrewd in your calctions, you were no less than Arnold. I believed that if you had joined forces with me, we could have written an even more magnificent saga than what we have now. Regrettably, it was Arnold who came to pledge his loyalty to me, not you.¡±


    Wayne firmly believed that the more troubled a person¡¯s mind was, the bolder and more ambitious they became. Dexter was the perfect example of this. This matter had always weighed heavily on Wayne¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Tell me; would we be in this situation today if we had joined forces?¡±


    Upon seeing his enthusiasm, Dexter squinted his eyes and said, ¡°There is no need to ask such a thing. I made money in the gray areas too, but I would never cross the line.¡±


    His ambition was evident, yet he had the ability to restrain his own desires. This made him even more intriguing in Wayne¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°There is a bomb on that ship. If I gave the order, there was no way Arnold could have survived. But I can assure you, Josie won¡¯t die. So, how about it? Shall we make a deal?¡±


    Dexter caressed the fabric of his sleeve cuff as he replied, ¡°To give up half a lifetime¡¯s savings for a deal with a talented individual is quite an enticing proposition.¡±


    ¡°I am sincere enough.¡±


    Then came another long stretch of waiting. During this time, Wayne once again looked out the window. The sky was already bright, the sun was about to rise, and everything would soon be out in the open.


    Finally, he couldn¡¯t help but interrupt Dexter¡¯s contemtion. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the least bit worried? Not everyone can withstand the water dungeon.¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t seem to understand. ¡°Why the rush? You have to give me time to think. After all, this is a matter that concerns my future. Besides, you¡¯ve already said that Arnold is hard to control, so how much should I trust what you¡¯re saying now?¡±


    No sooner had the words been spoken, when the phone on the table began to ring. The caller ID disyed Justin¡¯s name. The phone vibrated for quite some time, drawing the attention of both individuals.


    ¡°Not going to answer it?¡± Wayne asked teasingly.


    Dexter pursed his lips, abruptly ending the call. ¡°He¡¯s just someone insignificant.¡±


    At that moment, Wayne¡¯s phone also vibrated. After reading the message, heughed and slid the phone toward Dexter. ¡°Arnold really can¡¯t keep his cool.¡±


    The video above showed Josie as she was then, with the water level rising,pping at her neck. Her face was ashen, and she was on the verge of copse, her consciousness bing increasingly blurry.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°The sea at night is bone-chilling. Could her body withstand it?¡± Wayne asked leisurely.


    Dexter¡¯s heart ached as if being cut by a knife. He clenched his fists tightly, yet his expression remained calm. ¡°It seems he really wants to provoke Mark. Arnold didn¡¯t consider your situation at all, Wayne.¡±


    Despite the current circumstances, he was still able to analyze the situation with such calmness. Thispletely changed Wayne¡¯s expression. Just then, the cell phone rang again. Dexter, being considerate, pushed it toward him. ¡°It¡¯s for you.¡±


    Wayne stared at him for a moment, then rose to his feet and answered the phone, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Dexter waspletely engrossed, his gaze unwavering. Suddenly, he noticed a tiny scar on Wayne¡¯s finger. It was so small that it was almost imperceptible unless one looked closely.


    Whatever was said over the phone, it was clear that Wayne was not pleased. After hanging up, he looked down and said, ¡°Mr. Russell, now that we¡¯vee this far in our little drama, perhaps it¡¯s time we take a look at the scene firsthand.¡±


    Dexter raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Wavery is swarming with too many flies and mosquitoes. Mr. Russell, would you mind going ahead?¡±


    Outside, Arnold had been waiting to the point of irritation. Upon seeing someone emerge, his eyes finally lit up. ¡°Dexter!¡±

 Chapter 1209

    Dexter walked briskly, his expression stern. At that moment, Justin called again, but he simply didn¡¯t have the time to answer, so he hung up immediately.


    ¡°Well?¡± Arnold asked as he opened the car door.


    Dexter quickly got into the car. The prolonged tension had left a pressing sensation in his chest, causing him to pause momentarily. It took him a few seconds to regain hisposure before he finally said, ¡°Wayne is smart, so I can¡¯t just bluff my way through this. We need to go to the scene.¡±


    Arnold slid into the driver¡¯s seat, immediately making a turn. ¡°That¡¯s even better,¡± he said. ¡°Mr. Zabinski mentioned to me earlier that he has stationed people all along the route. As soon as you give the word, we can apprehend Wayne!¡±


    Wayne trailed behind them, followed by dozens of cars.


    Images of Josie suffering filled Dexter¡¯s mind, causing him to feel irritable and frustrated. ¡°Shake them off,¡± hemanded.


    ¡°Shake who off?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Zabinski¡¯s men. Now is not the time to take action.¡±


    Arnold choked up, clicking his tongue inannoyance. He nced irritably at the rearview mirror, then mmed his foot on the gas pedal, speeding away. He whisked past Mr. Zabinski¡¯s men, barely passing them by.


    Dexter rolled down the car window, allowing the gentle breeze to flow in, which helped to clear his mind.At this moment, in the water dungeon, Josie had already pushed her body to its limits.


    She tilted her head back to gaze at the sky, her voice hoarse as she asked, ¡°What time is it?¡±


    The bodyguard didn¡¯t respond to her.


    Dawn broke, and it seemed that Arnold didn¡¯t get the response he was hoping for. Otherwise, he would have continued his pursuit.


    At that moment, the door suddenly swung open. It was Josephine. She hadn¡¯t slept all night, and her expression was far from pleasant. ¡°Step outside,¡± she demanded.


    These words were directed at the bodyguard. ¡°Ms. Yowell, I regretfully cannotply with your order.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this? Did Arnold not even have this much trust in me? Or are you suggesting that I might let her go?¡±


    The bodyguard was in a bind when suddenly, avoice came through his earpiece. After hearing a few words, he finally left.


    Josephine stood towering above, her face etched with sorrow. ¡°Are you satisfied now that you¡¯ve humiliated me?¡±


    Josie¡¯s voice was weak and breathless, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°He hadn¡¯t yet finalized his divorce with Summer, so there¡¯s no way he could marry me.¡±


    One could envision just how heartbroken this woman must have been when she learned the truth.


    Josie gave a bitter smile. ¡°What does it matter? He has many connections. Besides, he¡¯s justmitting bigamy. He can just change his identity and marry again, without any fear of legal repercussions.¡±


    Josephine didn¡¯t utter a word. She just looked at Josie coldly.


    Of course, Josie knew what she was thinking.


    Such a marriage would be a humiliation to a daughter of an elite family who had been pampered since childhood. There was no reason for her to ept a man like this.


    What mattered to Josephine was her own pride.


    The light on the surveince camera overhead was still shing red. Josie closed her eyes momentarily and said, ¡°Ms. Yowell, if you truly care for someone, these things shouldn¡¯t matter.¡±


    The more Josie spoke, the less Josephine could stand it. She sank to her knees again, feeling as if she were falling apart. ¡°I can ept that he¡¯s involved in these industries, and I can even ept that he had many women before me. As for marriage¡­ I can¡¯t live in such a state,¡± she said.


    Not long ago, her father had revealed the truth to her. He had made it crystal clear when he said, ¡°The path you choose is your own. There¡¯s no turning back for us now. You must marry Arnold in the future. We have only one way ahead of us, and we must follow it to the end!¡±


    Josephine waspletely taken aback when she heard that. ¡°Father¡­ Even if it¡¯s true, that¡¯s my entire life you¡¯re talking about¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a marriage. Besides, it¡¯s the icing on the cake.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He seemed so indifferent, as if it was merely a stepping stone for his career path.


    ¡°Father!¡±


    ¡°All right; the ship should be nearing the border soon. Once you¡¯ve arrived, let me know thatyou¡¯re safe.¡±


    He was unaware that they had lingered in Wavery, all because of Josie.

 Chapter 1210

    Therge ship docked, and numerous small boats were awaiting at the pier.When Dexter arrived, the dock waspletely sealed off, eerily quiet. Caleb had made thorough preparations.


    Wayne stepped out of the car, his gaze drifting toward a ship in the distance. He clicked his tongue, remarking, ¡°It seems you¡¯re still wary of me, Mr. Russell. Today is a workday, so the dock should be bustling with people at this hour.¡±


    Dexter also gazed into the distance. ¡°This wasn¡¯t my doing.¡±


    Wayne pulled out a pack of Marlboro from his pocket, lit one up, and took a puff. ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll have to trouble you to make the arrangements.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s brows furrowed in concern as he shook his head at Dexter. His phone buzzed after receiving a message from Caleb. He handed it over to Dexter.


    The message read: Absolutely do not agree! That ship is rigged with explosives. We¡¯re all doomed if he dares to act!


    Dexter took the phone, typing swiftly: He wouldn¡¯t dare. Let the person in.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s crucial that we¡¯re dealing withordinary civilians. Otherwise, there¡¯s no point in continuing this conversation,¡± Wayne began.


    This was a tant threat.


    Dexter added a line as he texted: Don¡¯t send in too many in-clothes police officers.


    The message was sessfully sent.


    Caleb was clearly unwilling to take risks, but Wayne remained silent throughout, simply staring nkly at the sunrise. The sunrise at the sea, always so dazzlingly ostentatious.


    Ten minutester, the dock checkpoint opened, and a flood of merchants poured in. Some boarded ships to set sail, others began to conduct their business, while some started to haul their goods.


    Dexter and the others were quickly engulfed by the crowd.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Wayne was quite pleased with the unfolding scene. A smirk yed on his lips, ¡°It seems you¡¯re gradually starting to trust me, Mr. Russell. This is a good start.¡±


    Dexter also lit a cigarette, taking a deep breath as he said, ¡°I believe you wouldn¡¯t act recklessly. Choosing mutual destruction in such a situation isn¡¯t the choice of a wise man.¡±


    ¡°Look at that ship. Over the years, it hasaplished many great things for me. I simply cannot bear to watch it falter here today.¡±


    Wayne flicked his cigarette butt onto the ground, stomping it out as he continued, ¡°How about we head up for a look?¡±


    Not far from the bow of the ship, Arnold was standing there, holding a telescope.


    The fact that Dexter showed up here indicated that he still cared about Josie.


    Dexter didn¡¯t mention that he had already visited.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°What I mean is, you should go up there alone.¡±


    ¡°You want me to be Arnold¡¯s tool? Is it worth it scheming to this extent?¡±


    Wayne didn¡¯t deny it at all. ¡°Even raising a dog brings about affection, let alone a person.¡±


    With a slight curve of his lips, Dexter was about to step forward, but was held back by Arnold. In a hushed tone, he warned, ¡°Don¡¯t. Once you go up there, you won¡¯t be able toe back down!¡±


    ¡°Arnold, I am merely visiting Wayne¡¯s business. Your words aren¡¯t very pleasant,¡± Dexter said,ncing at Wayne, who responded with a slight smirk.


    ¡°It seems you¡¯ve already made up your mind.¡±


    ¡°After all, the terms you proposed were quite enticing. The strong, they always have a mutual understanding for each other.¡±


    No one mentioned Josie. It was as if she was irrelevant.


    The arrangements for the ship had already been made. Dexter stepped aboard alone, without a hint of hesitation. It seemed more like the first step in a surrender.


    Wayne stood by the shore, watching the scene unfold with satisfaction.


    As the ship sailed further into the distance, he pulled out his cell phone and dialed a number. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid Arnold might kill you on the spot?¡± he asked.


    ¡°He must first be capable of doing so.¡±


    Dexter sat down and suddenly said, ¡°Oh, by the way, I received a call earlier. It was from a government agency within our province.¡±


    Upon seeing this, Wayne¡¯s expression changed, but he remained silent.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know what he said, Mr.Dalton?¡±


    Before Dexter could even speak, his secretary had already rushed to his side urgently. The secretary nced around and quickly lowered his voice as he said, ¡°He has been taken away for investigation.¡±

 Chapter 1211

    A sharp glint shed in Wayne¡¯s eyes. ¡°It happened just half an hour ago.¡±


    They received the news quite promptly, yet they were still unable to prevent it.Narrowing his eyes, Wayne watched the small boat disappear into the distance. He scoffed coldly. ¡°Dexter, you¡¯re ying me.¡±


    The wind whistled through the phone as Dexter let out a sigh. ¡°I only just heard the news myself, and I¡¯m all the way in Wavery. There¡¯s no way I could have delivered the evidence so quickly. Wayne, you might want to check. Perhaps the news was leaked by one of our own.¡±


    Dexter was too cunning, not someone Wayne could trust easily. Wayne lifted his gaze, sweeping it over Arnold, who stood on the deck. The morning wind whipped up his coat, obscuring his expression.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, your attempts at sowing discord were ratherckluster.¡± After hanging up, Wayne immediately dialed another number.


    As Arnold watched Dexter gradually approach, he promptly set down his telescope and headed toward the water dungeon.


    The gradually approaching footsteps seemed to tug at Josie¡¯s nerves like a taut string. She had reached her limit, unable to even open hereyes.


    ¡°Robyn¡­¡± Josephine was the first to speak, rousing from her sorrow. She looked at the man before her in surprise, then realizing she had called him by the wrong name, she corrected herself with a bitter smile, ¡°Arnold.¡±


    He slightly furrowed his brows, reaching out to help her up. ¡°The water dungeon is cold and dreary. It¡¯s not a ce you should be.¡±


    Josephine nced at the barely breathing Josie. ¡°Had I note, perhaps there would be many things I wouldn¡¯t have known.¡±


    Arnold seemed oblivious to the world around him. He reached out, gently arranging Josephine¡¯s hair. ¡°The words of the dying can¡¯t be heard.¡±


    He then raised his voice andmanded, ¡°Scar, escort Ms. Yowell out.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Scar immediately stepped forward, but Josephine remained still. She stared nkly at Arnold. ¡°Will she die?¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t something you need to worry about,¡± answered Arnold.


    She should have foreseen his cold indifference and ruthlessness, but Josephine didn¡¯t care. All she cared about was herself. ¡°You can harm her, but don¡¯t touch me or my father. One mustnever forget their roots. Remember who gave you a lifeline, who kept you, a stray dog, from starving to death. You should know this in your heart.¡±


    Arnold frowned slightly, his face devoid of any expression.


    Josephine moved closer to him and threatened, ¡°After all, you¡¯re not without ws. We also have something on you.¡±


    Arnold turned to the side. ¡°What are you waiting for? I told you to escort Ms. Yowell out.¡±


    Scar looked bewildered, but Josephine had already taken the lead and stepped out.


    Once she had left, Arnold descended upon the water cell. Arnold slowly crouched down to one side, taking pleasure in Josie¡¯s teetering appearance. ¡°Is she really that fragile? Someone, keep adding water!¡±


    Once again, a torrent of water came crashing down, the sound and impact jolting Josie awake. Instinctively, she tilted her head back, gasping for breath. Her voice had grown faint. ¡°Arnold, just drown me!¡±


    ¡°Stop,¡± ordered Arnold.


    The waterline stopped just at her chin, causing ripples to dance along the side of her lips.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite fond of gambling, aren¡¯t you?¡± Arnold began in a leisurely tone, ¡°Did you know? Dexter is heading this way. Perhaps we should ce another bet.¡±


    Narrowing her eyes, Josie chose to selectively believe what he had said. ¡°What bet-¡±


    Beside therge ship, a small boat had already docked. Dexter boarded the boat alone, passing by the guard¡¯s bodyguard. Surprisingly, he even managed to crack a joke, ¡°Haven¡¯t we met somewhere before?¡±


    The bodyguard red at him, gritting his teeth in frustration. However, there was no concrete evidence to prove that Dexter had ever been on the boat.


    He was greeted with a round of apuse. The one who emerged step by step from the cockpit was none other than Arnold. ¡°What a coincidence. Wherever I go, you seem to follow. Sometimes, I really suspect you have a secret crush on me.¡±

 Chapter 1212

    Arnold, d in a floral shirt, stood amidst the wind. He didn¡¯t appear to be at the end of his rope, but rather, he seemed as if he was on vacation.


    Dexter stood with his hands sped behind his back, letting out a chuckle. ¡°That joke wasn¡¯t very funny.¡±


    Arnold narrowed his eyes, looking toward the bustling dock not far behind him, where even Wayne was standing by the shore. ¡°Let me think, how many high-ranking officials are present during this operation? If I were to resist, would I be executed on the spot?¡±


    Dexter was half-leaning on the railing, just asnguid, ¡°Arnold, you¡¯re overthinking it. I¡¯m the only one who came.¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Arnold alsoughed. ¡°You¡¯re a specially appointed expert from the state, and I¡¯m a nationally wanted criminal. By nature, we¡¯re on opposite sides. Would you really give up such a great opportunity?¡±


    ¡°I struck a deal with Mr. Dalton. He told me that as long as I got rid of you, I could take over his informant position.¡±


    Seeing Dexter maintain hisposure while saying all that, Arnold couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter. ¡°Such ame joke might fool a child, but do you really think I¡¯d fall for it? Mr. Dalton must know about the foolish thingsyou¡¯ve been doing with Josie behind the scenes.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Dexter was genuinely taken aback, a profound surprise etched on his face. ¡°Who is Josie? I have no idea.¡±


    ¡°Stop pretending.¡±


    ¡°I received a message from the Russell family informing me that a group of people had been mobilized, which prompted me to rush over. It was only by chance that I found out you were on the boat, and that¡¯s when I decided to take action. As for Josie, I truly had no idea.¡± Dexter paused, as if realizing something, ¡°So it was her


    The wind howled, and the expressions between the two required careful scrutiny. Arnold raised an eyebrow. ¡°It¡¯s all right if you don¡¯t remember. I¡¯ll take you to meet her. Perhaps seeing her will jog your memory.¡±


    With a meaningful look, he turned and headed back to the cabin of the ship.


    Dexter trailed behind, his mind filled with the recent image of Josie from the video. His heart ached as if being twisted by a knife. Thousands, tens of thousands of times, he had thought of taking matters into his own hands and ending Arnold.


    The door to the water dungeon swung open,resembling a well. Josie was suspended in the middle, her mouth submerged beneath the seawater.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She hung her head, clearly drained of all energy.Arnold exined, ¡°It was perfect timing, honestly. This water prison indeed proved to be useful.¡±


    He admired Dexter¡¯s impassive expression. Even though thetter maintained a facade of calm, the twitching nerves revealed that he always cared.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying she¡¯s the one who took the money?¡± asked Dexter.


    Arnold waved his finger. ¡°And the Russell family. Surely, you¡¯re not unaware of that, are you?¡±


    ¡°I really need to go back and ask.¡±


    Arnold raised his voice and dered, ¡°Dexter! I don¡¯t want your money anymore. I¡¯m giving you two options. First, you go down there and bring her up. Second, you watch her die.¡±


    Dexter nced once more at Josie. She had been roused by the noise, her eyes moist and fixed on him as she slowly shook her head.


    ¡°This is a tough choice. Is there a third option?¡± asked Dexter.


    ¡°Yes, which is that we all die to an explosion.¡±


    Dexter curled his lips, casting another nce at Josie. ¡°What makes you think I would sacrifice my wonderful life to save her?¡±


    Arnold wasn¡¯t sure whether to believe those words or not. He simply smiled and looked at Josie, as if to say, ¡°Just you wait and see.¡±


    Arnold taunted, ¡°Perhaps if it were just her, you might not care. However, what about your daughter? Are you willing to let her lose her mother?¡±


    ¡°You seem to think too highly of me. I can find another wife and have more daughters,¡± uttered Dexter.


    After speaking, Dexter turned around, seemingly uninterested and ready to leave.


    Suddenly, Arnold pulled out his gun and fired three shots into the water.

 Chapter 1213

    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Dexter¡¯s footsteps came to an abrupt halt. He turned around, his lips tightly pressed together, hisplexion a shade of pallor that was hard to discern.


    Once again, Arnold raised his gun, his face devoid of any emotion. ¡°So, should I let her die?¡±


    That time, the barrel of the gun was pointed directly at Josie¡¯s forehead.


    Thetter was equally pale, unable to control her trembling, causing the calm surface of the water to ripple slightly.


    In the end, Dexter couldn¡¯t hold back. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°The money, all of it, returned,¡± demanded Arnold.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie shouted with all her might. ¡°I don¡¯t need you to bear the burden of my actions!¡±


    Dexter stood tall, his back to the light, and he did not respond to Josie.


    Struggling against the water, Josie tried to catch Arnold¡¯s attention. ¡°I¡¯m the only one who knows where the money is. If you dare to kill me, you¡¯ll be just as dead. Mr. Dalton surelywouldn¡¯t keep a useless person like you around.¡±


    Chuckling in disbelief, Arnold said to Dexter, ¡°Even on her deathbed, she still threatens me. What a woman! However, tell me, Dexter. Is there any truth to her words?¡±


    Dexter immediately pulled out his cell phone and switched it to speaker mode. ¡°Notify the Russell family. We must put all our efforts into finding the whereabouts of that money. Once found, it must all be returned.¡±


    Arnold was filled with doubt. All he heard from the other end of the phone was a voice asking, ¡°Really¡­?¡±


    ¡°Do it.¡± Dexter ended the call, seemingly a bit helpless. ¡°I¡¯ve taken care of it for you. Let¡¯s release her first.¡±


    Josie¡¯s voice was hoarse and strained. ¡°Dexter!¡±


    With a cold gaze, Arnold said, ¡°This is merely an additional condition. I never said I would let anyone go.¡±


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s not impossible,¡± he said, repeating his earlier sentiment. ¡°You can take her ce. Otherwise, you¡¯ll have to watch her drown.¡±


    One was a profound abyss of ck, the other a vibrant bloom of color. Once again, they stoodtheir ground, each formidable in their own right, with no clear superior.


    For a moment, Dexter suddenly chuckled softly, ¡°Do you really think I would give up my own life for her? Do you think I¡¯m that noble?¡±


    Hisughter was eerily unsettling, causing Arnold¡¯s body to tense up. ¡°Isn¡¯t that so? No one knows you better than I do, Dexter. All these years, she has been your only weakness. Haven¡¯t I hit the nail on the head?¡±


    Dexter did not agree.


    Arnold let out a cold huff, then suddenly said, ¡°The night she left Wavery two years ago, you were speeding on the highway and got into a car ident. The doctors issued two critical condition notices. You wereid up in the hospital for half a year. Although you¡¯ve recovered, your body hasn¡¯t. You¡¯ve damaged your internal organs and heart. As far as I know, the ident was entirely your own doing.¡±


    As Dexter¡¯s expression gradually cooled, Josie¡¯s expression also shifted from anger to surprise, eventually settling into calmness.


    ¡°Dexter, you have to admit that you wanted to leave with her that night, even considering departing from a world that didn¡¯t include her. Isn¡¯t that love enough?¡±


    Dexter looked on with a cool gaze, evenmanaging to crack a joke. ¡°Two years ago, weren¡¯t you struggling and striving in Rivodia, going to great lengths to find out about me? Seems to me like you were the one who was more in love.¡±


    Gradually, Arnold grew impatient.


    Josie stared unblinkingly at Dexter. She had a strong hunch that what Arnold had said was probably true.


    ¡°The car ident was unexpected. You¡¯re really overthinking this,¡± said Dexter.


    ¡°Then I let the water flow, and you can watch her drown. How about that?¡± That was a tant provocation from Arnold toward Dexter.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Perhaps I once cared for her deeply, but love can fade. I would do anything within my power for her, but if it required sacrificing my life, I wouldn¡¯t. Clearly, you still don¡¯t understand this principle.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t even blink. He made a ¡®please¡¯ gesture with his hand.

 Chapter 1214

    Arnold eyed Dexter¡¯s changing expressions with suspicion. His raised hand not hastily lowered, he spoke loudly. ¡°Did you hear that, Josie? This man before you, he¡¯s not worth bearing children for. I told you long ago that he¡¯s devoid of emotions.¡±


    The spark that had ignited in Josie¡¯s eyes seemed to gradually extinguish after hearing Dexter¡¯s words. She whispered softly, ¡°I knew it all along.¡±


    ¡°Tell me where the money is, and I¡¯ll handle him for you,¡± Arnold said as he looked at her.


    That was a ssic case of sowing discord, but Josie was not easily fooled. ¡°We¡¯re all tarred with the same brush. I¡¯d rather you kill me than sumb to your games.¡±


    Both were stubborn individuals. Arnold, gun in hand, aimed at Dexter. ¡°Think about all the hardships you¡¯ve endured. Are you sure you don¡¯t want him dead?¡±


    The cell phone in his pocket vibrated incessantly. He answered it, and Wayne¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Put away your delusions. Dexter can¡¯t die right now.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond. He simply hung up the phone.


    He turned to the unwavering man before him and said, ¡°Think it through. This woman is themother of your child. If she dies, your child might resent you for the rest of their life. Do you really want her to die?¡±


    The water rippled gently.


    Dexter didn¡¯t rush to respond. It seemed he was


    contemting, even at that juncture, still weighing the pros and cons. That was his style.Arnold saw through it all. With a cold, mockingugh, he made the decision for Dexter.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    He pulled the trigger directly, aiming at the switch of the water valve.With a thunderous crash, in an instant, seawater rushed toward Josie, threatening to engulf her.


    The sparkle in her eyes still shone brightly, directed toward Dexter as if to tell him, ¡°You¡¯ve made the right decision.¡±


    The reflection of seawater in Dexter¡¯s eyes was a deep azure. He watched as she was slowly submerged, first over her head, then past the chain.


    Arnold didn¡¯t look back. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to save her? She¡¯s locked up, unable to swim her way out.¡±


    The turmoil within the water dungeon gradually subsided into tranquility.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. ¡°I thought you had some feelings for her.¡±


    Arnold blew the smoke off his gun barrel, a cold smirk on his face. ¡°I¡¯m no longer a man tethered by emotions. However, I didn¡¯t expect you to be so decisive. Tell me, what other tricks do you have up your sleeve?¡±


    He moved closer to Dexter. ¡°I forgot to mention something. This gun I took from Josie, it was you who gave it to her, wasn¡¯t it? Now, it¡¯s as if you¡¯ve killed her with your own hands. Are you satisfied?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes welled up with a reddish hue as he clenched the cor of his shirt. ¡°You killed her. Do you really think you can walk away alive?¡±


    ¡°No, but now that you¡¯re here, things might just change.¡±


    When Josephine heard themotion and rushed over, Arnold had already taken Dexter hostage, slowly moving toward the deck. ¡°There¡¯s one bullet left in this gun, more than enough to kill you. Let¡¯s see if your friends wille to save you.¡±


    Josephine covered her mouth. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyes held a slight upward tilt at the corners, a look that conveyed both his disdain for the world and a sense of aloofness, eventhough he still managed to keep it under control.


    Once on deck, Wayne was still standing on the opposite shore.


    Arnold spoke to him over the phone. ¡°Mr. Dalton, you have to admit, you really misjudged the situation.¡±


    ¡°Did he volunteer?¡± Wayne asked.


    ¡°Josie had passed away.¡±


    There was a brief silence from Wayne on the other end of the phone, followed by a quickening of his breath. ¡°Who gave you the right to do this, Arnold? Do you really think you¡¯re so capable?¡±


    ¡°I was at my wit¡¯s end, in such a dire situation. Could you possibly think of a better solution? Dexter is right here. Consider it as my final gift to you.¡±

 Chapter 1215

    Upon hearing that, Arnold thought that what truly angered Wayne was the fact that Dexter had been taken hostage.


    ¡°Arnold, do you know who¡¯s behind me?¡± Wayne asked in a deep voice.


    Arnold¡¯s gaze was heavy. ¡°I understand, Mr. Dalton, given the circumstances, we must take a gamble. Dexter, being a specially appointed expert from the state, they will do everything possible to protect his life.¡±


    The people behind Wayne had long been restless, including Calvin, Caleb, and the Russell family members.


    The man held captive by Arnold¡¯s elbow could be aptly described as the lifeblood of Wavery.


    If something went wrong, one could only imagine the shockwaves it would cause.


    ¡°To say such things in front of me, you really don¡¯t leave any room for face-saving, do you?¡± Dexter didn¡¯t resist, but there was a kind of calmness in him that bordered on world- weariness.


    Arnold understood Dexter. He merely perceived it as an aftermath of Josie¡¯s death.


    Wayne¡¯s voice came through, tense and strained. ¡°Since you¡¯ve already done it, you should see it through to the end.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Arnold ordered Dexter, ¡°Have those people on the shore leave.¡±


    He tightened his grip, pointing the barrel of the gun directly at Dexter¡¯s temple.


    ¡°How am I going to live if they leave?¡± Dexter said.


    ¡°Do you have any other choices?¡±


    Doesn¡¯t sound like it, thought Dexter.


    Arnold rummaged for his cell phone, taking control and swiftly dialing Caleb¡¯s number. The voice on the other end sounded extremely anxious. ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was icy, his voice sufficiently restrained. ¡°Josie is dead. There¡¯s no need for


    concern. Proceed as nned.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Arnold struck him hard, grabbing the phone. ¡°Mr. Zabinski, think it through. I¡¯m a fugitive. If I die, it doesn¡¯t matter. However, if Dexter dies, can you bear that responsibility?¡±


    ¡°Arnold! Just spit it out. What do you want?¡± questioned Caleb.


    ¡°Once the money is in ce, withdraw your people and let me leave the country!¡±


    Every request was demanding. Caleb stared atthe figure on the deck, his lips turning pale. ¡°I can give you the money, but letting you leave the country¡­ That¡¯s impossible!¡±


    Arnoldughed. ¡°Oh, it seems like you don¡¯t care about your official post anymore. Do you really think you can survive once Dexter is dead?¡±


    Calvin¡¯s voice echoed from the side, his eyes scanning all directions. ¡°Mr. Zabinski, be careful. Dexter¡¯s health isn¡¯t good these days. He¡¯s no match for Arnold. If Arnold loses his mind, he could actually kill someone!¡±


    Those words reached Arnold¡¯s ears, and he slowly said, ¡°Indeed, Mr. Barrett is truly far- sighted. Isn¡¯t the death of Josie enough?¡±


    ¡°Give me ten minutes,¡± Caleb said, leaving behind those words before the call was abruptly ended.


    ¡°Is Josie really dead?¡± Dexter asked, seemingly struggling to ept the reality.


    ¡°The water was ten meters deep. She had nowhere to escape. If she stayed submerged any longer, she¡¯d probably be a bloated cadaver,¡± Arnold said. His expression was particrly cold, not so much devoid of emotion, but rather a restraint of his own feelings.


    Dexter closed his eyes.


    Stumbling out of the ship¡¯s cabin, Josephine looked on in disbelief. ¡°Are you really going to stand against them like this?¡±


    Perhaps when she boarded the ship, she never imagined that the journey would turn out to be that perilous.


    Dexter cast a nce at the woman, then suddenly said, ¡°Your father has met his end. He no longer has a choice.¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Arnold sternly interrupted him.


    Josephine waspletely taken aback. ¡°What did you say? My father, it can¡¯t be. I just spoke with him a few hours ago!¡±


    Dexter was unfazed by the gun pointed at his head, flexing his muscles slightly. ¡°What, didn¡¯t Arnold here tell you?¡± he asked, a hint of mockery in his voice. ¡°Your father has already been taken away for investigation. Why else do you think he¡¯s fighting so desperately? His backer has fallen, so now he can only rely on himself.¡±

 Chapter 1216

    Incredulously, Josephine stared at Arnold, taking step by step toward him as if seeking an answer. ¡°Is that really true?¡±


    ¡°It was merely an investigation. Whether there¡¯s an issue or not is still up for debate. Why panic?¡± stated Arnold.


    Seeing him dismiss the matter entirely, Josephine suddenly copsed onto the ground. ¡°That¡¯s my father-¡°


    ¡°Indeed, there¡¯s no need to worry. As long as your father holds you in his heart, he will rescue you,¡± Dexter said, his gaze as prating as if he were watching a fire, disying an unexpected calmness.


    Josephine looked at him.


    Dexter continued, ¡°Ms. Yowell, do you know why you were allowed on this ship? It¡¯s because you are his safety. As long as you¡¯re here, your father won¡¯t abandon him.¡±


    Every word, every sentence, was like a dagger to the heart, words so cruel that Josephine couldn¡¯t bear to listen. She turned her gaze toward Arnold instead.


    She simply asked one question, ¡°Is it really true?¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t respond. Instead, he changed the subject. ¡°Go get some sleep. When you wake up, I¡¯ll take you home. Please, listen to me.¡±


    In other words, Arnold was silently confirming it.


    For a woman deeply in love, the greatest harmes from deception and exploitation. Yet, in the world of a man like Arnold, these two concepts were not clearly distinguished.


    ¡°You can¡¯t treat me like this.¡± Josephine shook her head. The entire night, she had been forced to digest too much information, more than she could bear. ¡°Arnold, don¡¯t forget who saved you when you were at your lowest. Without me, without my father, would you even have had the chance to meet Mr. Dalton? One should never be ungrateful!¡±


    Ungrateful? The idea almost made Dexterugh.


    ¡°Did Ipel you to love me?¡± Arnold rebutted calmly, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you I can¡¯t love you?¡±


    Indeed, she was the one who had forced herself onto him, and it seemed she was reaping what she had sown.


    Josephine¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°My father cannot die.¡±


    ¡°I know. I will handle it.¡± Arnold tightened his grip on the gun, looking toward the opposite shore where the crowd had already been dispersed. ¡°At this point, Mr. Dalton wouldn¡¯t dare to blow up this ship.¡±


    Ten minutes had already passed when Caleb called, ¡°We¡¯ve discussed it. You can leave the country. However, first, you have to release the person you¡¯re holding.¡±


    ¡°Mr. Zabinski, how can I possibly trust you?¡± said Arnold.


    For a moment, Caleb spoke with gritted teeth. ¡°We just received news that the cargo the Vipera were transporting has already been switched. We¡¯ve been duped.¡±


    Gradually, a smile spread across Arnold¡¯s face. Without that most damning piece of evidence, everything would dissolve into nothingness.


    The charges against Lucas would also be dismissed.


    Arnold let out a sigh of relief. ¡°Mr. Zabinski, how should we proceed with the deal?¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Bring him over here!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard for me to believe you guys.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send someone over to pick you up. That should be fine, right?¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t object. He simply stared at the man before him, ¡°Oh, I really don¡¯t wish toy by trouble for the future by releasing you, Dexter.¡±


    Dexter simply tilted his head back, gazing at the gradually brightening sky. The first rays of dawn were slowly leaping from the horizon of the sea. Dexter let out a sigh, ¡°Daybreak hase. It¡¯s time for a resolution.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± For a moment, Arnold didn¡¯t understand.


    As the vessel Caleb had arranged for drew closer, it finally reached the side of therge ship. Arnold, holding Dexter hostage, suddenly changed his mind. ¡°Once I cross the border, I¡¯ll release him.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he issued an order to Scar. ¡°Set sail!¡±


    ¡°Arnold!¡± Caleb eximed in utter frustration.


    ¡°Apologies, but I simply couldn¡¯t bring myself to trust you. Also, I¡¯m now called Robyn.¡±


    The ship¡¯s horn red, signaling its departure once again.

 Chapter 1217

    The figure of Dexter gradually faded into the distance. Calvin was frantic on the shore. He made a beeline for Wayne, only to be stopped by the bodyguards. ¡°Can¡¯t you control him, Mr. Dalton?¡± he demanded, his voiceced with desperation. ¡°Don¡¯t be so full of yourself. If something happens to Dexter, you¡¯re going down with him!¡±


    Witnessing all that unfold, Wayne hadn¡¯t expected Arnold to be so audacious. He let out a muffled chuckle. ¡°Your name is Calvin, right? You¡¯re as naive as Dexter. Well, after watching all that unfold for a night, I¡¯m beat. It¡¯s time for me to leave.¡±


    Wayne raised his hand, signaling for the team to disband.


    His group was heading back when they saw a car driving against the traffic. It was unmistakably Mallory. She didn¡¯t even properly park before she jumped out of the car, quickly running to Calvin¡¯s side, brushing past Wayne as she did.


    She said something, and the tension in Calvin eased somewhat. Only then did she turn around, narrowing her eyes at the retreating figure. ¡°Is that Mr. Dalton? He¡¯s nothing but a shady sewer rat!¡±


    Therge ship sped across the ocean, swiftly leaving the territorial waters of Wavery behind. Arnold holstered his gun, and the two men sat together on the deck, gazing out at the boundless sea.


    ¡°Was it worth it? The money wasn¡¯t retrieved,¡± questioned Dexter.


    ¡°What I detested most was your demeanor, acting as if you had everything under control. Even when the woman you loved died, you remained utterly indifferent.¡±


    ¡°She, dead?¡± Dexter took out a pack of cigarettes, offering one to Arnold. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    Arnold narrowed his eyes, a sense of unease creeping in. ¡°What are you implying?¡± he asked.


    ¡°You¡¯ve said a lot of foolish things, but you got one thing right, and that is, I love her.¡±


    At that moment, the sea breeze stirred the loose strands of hair on Dexter¡¯s forehead. He didn¡¯t appear lost like a prisoner, but rather, he exuded the contentment of a man who had just won a great victory.


    Arnold didn¡¯t take the offered cigarette, his entire body tense. ¡°You rescued Josie? It¡¯s impossible! The water dungeon was sealed from all sides. No one else could open it!¡±


    ¡°We share amon trait. We¡¯re both rather self-assured,¡± Dexter said, a slow smile spreading across his face. He lit a cigarette and took a drag. ¡°In truth, Josie didn¡¯t die, which was a good thing for you. Otherwise, you won¡¯t escape so easily. However, I believe you wouldn¡¯t have let her die, right? There were mechanisms in the water dungeon, weren¡¯t there? You were so decisive, but it was all to provoke me, to provoke Mr. Zabinski and the others. I have to admit, you seeded.¡±


    Dexter spoke slowly, his every word and sentence delivered with precision. He gazed into the distance where a fleet of ships was approaching head-on. ¡°You¡¯ve deceived Mr. Zabinski, and you¡¯ve fooled Mark. He¡¯s probably wishing he could kill you. Don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    Arnold¡¯s eyes widened as he saw the fleet of ships approaching head-on, swiftly encircling his vessel. On thergest of those ships, there stood a remarkably spry elderly man, Mark.


    ¡°How could he be here? He clearly knows nothing! Josie wouldn¡¯t let him find out either!¡± To a certain extent, Arnold truly understood Josie.


    He had a grasp on her psyche and could aplish half of what he set out to do. However, he fundamentally didn¡¯t understand Dexter.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Mark¡¯s stern voice echoed through the loudspeaker, ¡°Arnold, you are surrounded by water on all sides. If I were to kill you here, no one would ever know. If you have any sense, you¡¯ll abandon ship yourself.¡±


    Though he was old, his voice still resonated with authority. It wasced with a mix of anger and sorrow that he struggled mightily to suppress.


    It took Arnold a moment to regain hisposure, and then it hit him. Back at the dock, Dexter had repeatedly said that Josie was dead. He was trying to convey a message.

 Chapter 1218

    Two hours ago, the seawater poured in, engulfing Josie¡¯s mouth and nose, reaching up to her head. She gave up struggling. Just when she thought she was about to lose her life there, a force came from beneath the water. It was a person!


    The stranger was fully equipped and signaled to Josie that he was an ally. He took the lead in fitting her with another set of diving gear, then swam to the surface. He cut off the chain that was binding her and, holding onto her, began to swim downward.


    Surprise shed across Josie¡¯s face as she gestured toward the stranger, demanding, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    The stranger gripped her hand tightly, swimming back the way they came. There were people waiting for them at the entrance, and they quickly made it ashore.


    Well, that wasn¡¯t true. They were still in the ship, inside a secret room undiscovered by anyone.


    After being rescued, Josie removed her diving gear, taking in deep breaths. It took her a while to recover before she finally asked, ¡°Who are you? Why did you save me?¡±


    The stranger also removed their gear, their face was resolute yet refined. ¡°We were assigned by Mr. Russell to infiltrate this ship undercover. We¡¯ve received orders from above that neither you nor him cane to harm!¡±


    They had been prepared all along. Josie closed her eyes briefly, uttering a word of thanks. ¡°I truly thought I was going to die.¡±


    She suddenly had a realization. It seemed that Dexter had merely been stalling before, providing ample time for rescue.


    Although she was unharmed, she had been submerged in the water for far too long. She waspletely drained of energy, herplexion pale as a sheet, and she couldn¡¯t even muster the strength to stand. ¡°Should we leave now?¡±


    The stranger responded, ¡°We¡¯re awaiting orders.¡±


    They were professionals who conducted a basic examination on Josie.


    A tremor echoed from above, causing Josie¡¯s heart to leap in fear. ¡°Dexter has been kidnapped! You must hurry and save him!¡±


    They fell silent, repeating the same phrase, ¡°We must wait for orders.¡±


    On the deck, Arnold slowly rose to his feet, picking up the megaphone in kind. ¡°Old Mr. Olsen, I thought your health was failing. Yet, here you are, having traveled a great distance. Is it really worthing out of retirement for the sake of those people in Wavery?¡±


    Mark¡¯s expression was stern, but in reality, he was seething with anger. ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb with me,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯ve taken my daughter hostage twice. It¡¯s high time we settled this score. Just because I¡¯ve been out of the picture, you thought she had no one to watch her back, didn¡¯t you?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand, Old Mr. Olsen.¡± Arnold leaned on the armrest, ¡°Wasn¡¯t your so-called daughter Rachel back then? You didn¡¯t acknowledge Josie, did you?¡±


    That statement struck a chord in Mark¡¯s heart, leaving him unable to let go for a long time.


    ¡°Now youe to stop my ship, using me of kidnapping her. Do you have any proof?¡±


    Such words of persuasion didn¡¯t faze Mark in the slightest. He scoffed, ¡°Arnold, you¡¯re too na?ve to y these games with me. If you don¡¯t hand over Josie today, this ship won¡¯t be leaving the country, and you¡¯ll be staying with me!¡±


    Mark had not easily involved himself in such grand affairs for many years, nor had he personally left his seclusion. Despite his body ailing with sickness, he took his ce at the helm of the ship, all for the sake of Josie¡¯s safety.


    From the moment he received the news, only a few hours had passed. Yet, he had managed to gather so many people. Clearly, he was giving it his all.


    The location was not far from Wavery, still under the control of the Olsen family. Taking down Arnold was entirely within their capabilities.


    The expression on Arnold¡¯s face gradually turned serious. He had considered many possibilities, but he had never thought that Mark would interfere.


    ¡°Old Mr. Olsen, Josie isn¡¯t dead.¡± Arnold could only step back.


    ¡°Then hand her over!¡± Mark simply didn¡¯t believe any of it. ¡°Have you truly forgotten Josie¡¯s surname? Herst name isn¡¯t Warren but Olsen!¡±

 Chapter 1219

    Arnold didn¡¯te alone. He brought with him a group of skilled individuals. However, they were outnumbered there, and the situation didn¡¯t look promising.


    Perched on a high vantage point, Arnold watched as Mark¡¯s ship gradually drew closer. Suddenly, he dered, ¡°Josie is already dead.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s pupils contracted sharply, clearly seeing Mark lean back when he heard those words. Then, he made a concerted effort to regain hisposure. ¡°If she¡¯s dead, I still must see her body. If you can¡¯t deliver today, don¡¯t even think about leaving the country.¡±


    Arnold¡¯s expression hardened, revealing an almost imperceptible hint of provocation. ¡°Rather than asking me for her, you may as well send someone out to sea. It may even be faster.¡±


    The implication of those words was clear as day: Josie had perished in the sea with no chance of return.


    Mark paused for a moment before he spoke. ¡°That¡¯s eptable too. You can apany her to the underworld today.¡±


    As he raised his hand, the people behind him hoisted their guns.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    The situation was the same for Arnold. In the vast expanse of the sea, two ships stood their ground, eachmanding their own territory.


    Inside the secret room, Josie¡¯s pain had gradually subsided. She faintly heard a noiseing from above. Listening carefully, she recognized it as the sound of a loudspeaker. ¡°Have we left Wavery yet?¡± she asked.


    One of them checked the locator. ¡°Arnold is about to leave the country.¡±


    ¡°Is Dexter still on the boat?¡±


    No one responded, which she took as silent agreement.


    Then, someone responded, ¡°Arnold had taken Mr. Russell hostage, using Mr. Russell as a means to secure his escape from the country.¡±


    Holding such a bargaining chip, it¡¯s no wonder that Caleb and his team had let Arnold go. Although, it¡¯ll be lucky for Dexter to escape unscathed, seeing that Arnold absolutely despises Dexter! Taking a deep breath, Josie acknowledged that, with hertest status, she wasn¡¯t suitable to go out.


    Thus, she pleaded, ¡°I just want to take a look. I won¡¯t do anything rash. Is there a way?¡±


    The others were clearly in a difficult position, taking the initiative to exin, ¡°Mr. Russell is safe at the moment. Negotiations are currently underway outside.¡±


    ¡°Is there room for negotiation? Dexter and I were both on the ship. Who could Arnold possibly negotiate with?¡±


    ¡°Your father.¡±


    Josie¡¯s pupils contracted. She quickly discerned that the father being referred to was not Paul but rather Mark.


    Why is he here? Overwhelmed by a surge of emotions, Josie had lost all sense of reason. She abruptly rose and rushed to the door, clinging to the window, gazing at the light outside.


    Indeed, the outside was already prepared for what was toe. Mark stood at the bow of the ship, his figure faintly visible in the dim light. Even though he was over fifty years old, his vigor had not faded in the slightest.


    However, his hair had already turned gray.


    Josie covered her mouth, a sense of disbelief washing over her. She couldn¡¯tprehend why her actions had rmed Mark. At that time, her actions had nothing to do with the interests of the Olsen family. The only thing that connected them was herself! He came for my sake.


    ¡°Are you certain, Old Mr. Olsen? If you kill me, no one will ever know where Josie drew hisst breath. It will be quite a task to find her then.


    Surely, you wouldn¡¯t want the Olsen family ancestral hall to foreverck the name of Josie, would you?¡± With a mischievous grin, Arnold spoke in a tone that was both threatening and maniptive.


    He knew he was no match for Mark. The tide had turned against him in Wavery, and once he was ensnared, there would be no chance for him to turn things around.


    Arnold¡¯s words struck Mark¡¯s heart deeply. Mark said in a grave voice, ¡°I¡¯ll repeat what I said before. If she¡¯s dead, I want to see her body. If you don¡¯t want to die, turn around now and pull her up.¡±


    Arnold nced at Dexter. The sun had already risen halfway into the sky, casting light on Dexter¡¯s lean and neat figure. Dexter showed no signs of nervousness. Instead, he seemed overly calm.


    The two of them locked eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got the wrong person, Old Mr. Olsen, if you¡¯re asking me for her,¡± uttered Arnold.

 Chapter 1220

    Mark remained utterlyposed. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Arnold sneered, ¡°Dexter, Mark is practically your father-inw. He risked his life toe here, yet you continue to deceive him. Is that really appropriate?¡±


    Dexter turned to his side, seemingly puzzled. ¡°What did I supposedly lie about?¡±


    ¡°Josie didn¡¯t die, and you used this fact to lure Mark. If Josie knew, she would probably hate you even more, wouldn¡¯t she?¡± Arnold turned off the loudspeaker so he was audible only to a few people around him.


    Dexter stared at him. ¡°Do you dare to tell him and everyone, then? Do you have the courage? Once you do, you¡¯ll lose all your leverage. Is it worth it?¡±


    He gradually began tough. ¡°Is it worth it to expose someone as notorious as me?¡±


    Arnold looked into his eyes, filled with a potent mix of hatred and an inevitable sense of resignation. Impatient, Mark interrupted, ¡°Enough with the chatter. I¡¯m giving you two options, Arnold. You live, or you die. Your choice, one word.¡±


    That left Arnold with no room to retreat.


    Josephine watched the spectacle unfolding before her, her legs turning to jelly. She shook her head. ¡°Robyn, just hand them over. Survival is what matters.¡±


    Initially, she assumed that Josie was just an ordinary person. Little did she know that Josie had such a powerful support system behind her!


    ¡°Shut up! Do you really think that handing over a person would guarantee our survival? Dexter-¡± Arnold raised an eyebrow, suddenly saying, ¡°What I detest most is your air of superiority, as if you have everything under control.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, Josie felt a sudden sense of foreboding washed over her.


    Indeed, under Dexter¡¯s watchful gaze, Arnold suddenly pulled out his cell phone.


    ¡°Mr. Dalton.¡± His voice wasnguid yet resolute. ¡°It seems I can¡¯t get out of thisst deal unscathed. Do it.¡±


    ¡°No good! He¡¯s nning to go down with the ship,¡± Josie eximed in despair. ¡°Can any of you stop him?¡±


    The two people behind her wore expressions of difficulty. The angle was tricky, making it impossible for them to make a move on Arnold. ¡°We can only rely on our colleagues on Mr. Dalton¡¯s side,¡±


    Meanwhile, at the dock, Wayne¡¯s vehicle was unable to leave safely. It was stopped at the checkpoint under the pretense of a safety inspection.


    He leaned against the side as Scott began to frisk him. Wayne scoffed, ¡°What¡¯s your rank to think you have the right to be searching me?¡±


    Scott red at him with a look of deep-seated hatred. ¡°No matter how impressive you think you are, you still have to hide behind a mask, too afraid to show your true face. You¡¯re even more despicable than a sewer rat!¡±


    Wayne didn¡¯t get angry. Instead, hezily nced toward Caleb, who was not too far away. ¡°Mr. Zabinski, your peopleck manners.¡±


    He was a big shot in Rivodia, his influence rippling through every corner. Caleb dared not ck off in Wayne¡¯s presence. With an impatient gesture toward Scott, he said, ¡°Let me handle this.¡±


    After a thorough search of Wayne, no contraband was found. Instead, it was his cell phone, tucked away in his pocket, that made a sound.


    After hearing Arnold¡¯s words, Wayne understood why he was stopped. He turned his back, letting out a soft sigh. ¡°Arnold¡­ It wasn¡¯t as if you were at your wit¡¯s end. Why did you have to go to such lengths?¡±


    Under the scorching sun, Mark¡¯s gun didn¡¯t discriminate.


    Arnold stood tall, his spine rigid. ¡°There¡¯s no other choice. Consider this my final grand gift to you.¡±


    The devastation would be great and the losses heavy. Once the choice was made, there truly was no turning back.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°Give me ten minutes to think it over,¡± Wayne said, hanging up the phone.


    Mark¡¯s ship had already drawn near. It was only when it was close enough that Josie could clearly see Mark. Two years had passed, and many wrinkles had etched themselves onto his face. He no longer possessed the robustness of his past. Instead, he seemed hunched and aged.


    ¡°It seems that Mr. Dalton didn¡¯t give you a satisfactory answer,¡± Dexter said with a faint smile. It was the kind of smile that spoke of a deep understanding.

 Chapter 1221

    With her father under investigation, Josephine lost her usefulness. Josie disappeared, leaving Arnold with only one card left to y ¨C Wayne and the ship.


    Mark advanced, but Arnold raised his gun toward him. ¡°My ship¡¯s sniper isn¡¯t just for show. Are you really not afraid?¡±


    ¡°Kid,¡± Mark began, his eyes narrowing with a sense of nostalgia. ¡°When I was your age, I¡¯ve been through situations far more perilous than this. And yet, I survived. What I¡¯m facing now is child¡¯s y inparison.¡± As he spoke, his gaze subtly shifted toward the corner window, a glint of something unreadable in his eyes.


    Although he had aged, his eyesight remained sharp, allowing him to gaze into a pair of eyes that mirrored his own.


    The two of them exchanged nces from afar.


    Josie had noticed it too, her pupils suddenly constricting. She shook her head at him, her meaning clear, ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous! You all need to leave!¡±


    Despite his surprise, Mark managed to keep hisposure, revealing only a slight smile and a barely perceptible shake of his head.


    In a moment of distraction, no one noticed the ruthless glint that shed across Arnold¡¯s eyes. He aimed his gun directly at the mast of Mark¡¯s ship and fired. The boat rocked violently, startling everyone. Without wasting a second, they shielded Mark behind them.


    Dexter was the first to react. With a single push of his hand, he leaped off the side of the boat, clutching the wobbly, mysterious rod as he jumped onto Mark¡¯s main ship. Without hesitation, he snatched the gun from the bodyguard¡¯s hand, aiming it directly at Arnold.


    ¡°You dare pull the trigger?¡± Beads of sweat trickled down his forehead, his nerves taut with tension.


    Arnold was equally unyielding. ¡°Step aside if you don¡¯t want to die.¡±


    Dexter merely lifted his wrist. ¡°Almost ten minutes have passed. Mr. Dalton hasn¡¯t given you any instructions yet?¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Thus, Dexter wasn¡¯t the only one who was on edge.


    Mark¡¯s brows furrowed in worry. He hadn¡¯t expected that Dexter would risk his life for him. In the past, Dexter was always the one who weighed the pros and cons the best!


    ¡°Step aside. The people I brought is more than capable of standing up to him,¡± said Mark.


    Dexter didn¡¯t listen. Abruptly, he raised his hand, striking directly at the sniper hidden at the bow of the opposing boat. The man¡¯s position was concealed, never expecting to be discovered by Dexter. Caught off guard and in pain, he tumbled over.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t mean I¡¯ll let you fight with an ouw,¡± Dexter said. As he finished his sentence, he fired another shot, shattering Arnold¡¯s mast.


    Arnold slowly curled his lips, observing the situation. He no longer held back and decisively gave themand, ¡°Fire!¡±


    In a moment, the sound of gunfire was relentless, all caution thrown to the wind.


    Josie was taken aback, watching everything unfold in disbelief.


    Mark was shielded beneath Dexter, unharmed.


    ¡°Now the fight has begun, Arnold stood no chance of winning.¡± The two individuals behind Josie slipped a bulletproof vest onto her. ¡°We need to move quickly, Ms. Warren. Your safety is our top priority!¡±


    Josie shook her head without moving, looking outside. ¡°Will Dexter and the Olsen family be held ountable afterward?¡±


    ¡°No, this isn¡¯t international waters.¡± Thus, Mark was allowed to act.


    Josie wasn¡¯t wearing a bulletproof vest. She took it off and said, ¡°You guys wear it. You all have families to care for. I can¡¯t put you in harm¡¯s way!¡±


    ¡°Ms. Warren!¡± Despite their reluctance, they had no choice but to leave, as they had other responsibilities to attend to.


    Josie spared them the difort. ¡°I¡¯ll go out with you all.¡±


    The original n was to escape with Josie on a lifeboat. However, as they emerged, Josie looked up just in time to see Dexter shielding Mark. At the same moment, a bullet from Arnold was fired directly at Dexter¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Dexter!¡± Josie couldn¡¯t help but exim.


    It was at that very moment Dexter sessfully dodged the bullet. However, the bad news was, Arnold discovered the presence of Josie.


    Several men turned around simultaneously, their gazes filled withplexity.

 Chapter 1222

    Under the scorching sun, Josie stood. The heat was so intense that sweat seeped from her skin, her eyes filled with fear. In Arnold¡¯s eyes, that scene was incredibly beautiful.


    He found her beauty so breathtaking that he couldn¡¯t help butugh. In a soft voice, he said, ¡°You really didn¡¯t die.¡±


    Suddenly, Dexter rose to his feet. Raising his hand, hemanded, ¡°Stop!¡±


    Mark¡¯s people immediately ceased firing, careful to avoid identally harming Josie. Josie sensed the impending danger. She knew she was done for.


    Step by step, Arnold made his way toward Josie. His gaze, however, was fixed on the two figures standing behind her. He recognized them. They were his own subordinates. Yet, the guns they held were pointed directly at him.


    ¡°Step back!¡± the two men shouted.


    It doesn¡¯t seem like they¡¯re associated with underground mobs and more like they¡¯re withw enforcers. Arnold licked his lips as a realization dawned on him. ¡°Undercover, eh?¡±


    Once their undercover identity was exposed, it would bring them endless trouble. Thus, Josie stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯m the one who held them hostage. If you have the guts,e at me.¡±


    Arnold didn¡¯t even nce at her as he spoke. ¡°I recognize you two skilled operatives. How long have you been undercover in my operation?¡±


    One of them would rather die than surrender. ¡°Mr. Carter, you are courageous and strategic. It¡¯s not toote to turn back now. If you return to the interrogation room in Wavery, I will plead for you.¡±


    Chuckling as he tilted his head back, Arnold said, ¡°I should be thanking you for not forgetting old times.¡±


    Scarface had already surrounded them with his men. ¡°Boss, they¡¯re from the police. Let¡¯s take them down.¡±


    ¡°Apprehend them.¡± Arnold issued hismand, then turned to Josie. ¡°You put on quite a show with Dexter to deceive me. However, your survival has indeed created many opportunities for me.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he grabbed Josie by the back of her neck, pushing her in front of him with one foot resting on the step. ¡°Dexter, I appreciate the hostage you left for me.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t even dare to meet Dexter¡¯s worried gaze. He realized he had acted recklessly, ruining the n.


    Stumbling forward, Mark was abruptly caught by Dexter. Struggling to speak, he demanded, ¡°Give her to me!¡±


    Arnold cast an intrigued nce at Josie. ¡°Give her to you? If I give her to you, how will I survive?¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    The veins on the back of Dexter¡¯s hand bulged as he struggled to remain calm. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re hot sh*t threatening a woman? I¡¯ll trade ces with her. You stand to gain much more.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried, Mr. Russell,¡± Arnold said with a hint of amusement. ¡°Clearly, I can¡¯t hold you down. You¡¯re just too cunning.¡±


    Then he said to Josie, ¡°I even suspect that the one you love is not him but me. You came to my rescue when I was in the most perilous situation, a helping hand in the hour of need.¡±


    Josie¡¯s back was rigid with tension. ¡°Kill me or y me. It¡¯s your call. Your life won¡¯t change either way.¡±


    Before Arnold could even respond, Mark was the first to speak out. ¡°No, don¡¯t listen to her, and don¡¯t hurt her!¡±


    Mark¡¯s words were filled with anxiety and panic, fearing that something bad would happen to Josie.


    Josie gazed at the elderly man before her, a tumult of emotions stirring within her. She recalled theirst encounter at the Olsen Residence in Wavery. After he had taken a knife for her, he fell into aa at the hospital. Josie, however, had not gone to visit him.


    Even she couldn¡¯t articte why, but perhaps it was mostly fear. She found it difficult to confront the person who was incredibly important to her.


    ¡°Jo¡­¡± Mark¡¯s eyes welled up with unshed tears, ¡°I will definitely save you. Believe in me, and don¡¯t give up!¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed in concern. ¡°At your age, you shouldn¡¯t havee.¡±


    Mark shook his head, ¡°In the past, when I didn¡¯t know where you were, I was determined to bring you back, no matter if you were at the ends of the earth. Now that you¡¯re right in front of me, how could I possibly stand by and do nothing?¡±

 Chapter 1223

    Every word and sentence of Mark¡¯s was a heartfelt plea from a father. Josie slowly shook her head, turning to look at Dexter. ¡°Please take him away. We haven¡¯t yet epted each other. It¡¯s premature to talk about such profound bonds.¡±


    She was always unwilling to ept Mark, not the other way around.


    Dexter supported Mark with one hand. Despite having regained hisposure just moments ago, he was gradually being pushed into a corner, revealing his struggle.


    He directly asked Arnold, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Let me leave the country,¡± answered Arnold.


    ¡°When will you release Josie?¡±


    ¡°Once we cross the border, I¡¯ll naturally let her go.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was intense as it fell upon Josie, clearly struggling to make a decision.


    Arnold was calm andposed, already holding the upper hand. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ve already made a request to Mr. Dalton,¡± he said nonchntly. ¡°Perhaps in a little while, this ship will explode. If we all die together, then I won¡¯t be at a loss.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s brow furrowed even more, but Mark was the first to respond, ¡°I¡¯ll have to assign someone to apany you to ensure Josie¡¯s safety.¡±


    Arnold gave no clear response. He leisurely asked, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Dexter? Can¡¯t you make a choice yet?¡±


    Josie knew what he was thinking. Arnold¡¯s promise to release the captive was far from simple. It was more about torment.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    She nodded at him. ¡°Dexter, you wanted to reconcile with me, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s eyebrows quivered, his eyes trembling.


    ¡°You once promised to respect my opinions and follow my choices. If you take Mark away, I might consider reconciling with you.¡± That statement was a sugar-coated bullet.


    Dexter could discern its meaning, but he also understood her plea. However, making a real choice was still challenging.


    Just then, his pocket vibrated once more with the familiar hum of his cell phone. Uncertain if he was trying to escape the difficult decision at hand, he pulled it out and answered.


    It was unmistakably the voice of Wayne. ¡°Mr. Russell, it¡¯s time for you to leave.¡±


    Dexter stood in the wind, offering no response.


    ¡°Your brother-inw couldn¡¯t reach you, so he went to great lengths to find me. Can you guess what it could be about?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s expression shifted subtly. To prevent Josie from noticing, he subtly turned his body to the side. ¡°What are you thinking of doing?¡±


    ¡°I just want to warn you that if you don¡¯t withdraw now, your daughter won¡¯t be able to return.¡±


    Grape¡¯s in trouble. Dexter abruptly closed his eyes, unable to bear revealing even a hint of his thoughts for fear that Josie would discover them.


    For a moment, he pursed his lips. ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Arnold chuckled. ¡°Have you made up your mind yet?¡±


    ¡°You.¡± Dexter¡¯s eyes wereced with venom as he lightly pointed the gun in his hand at Arnold. ¡°If you dare to betray me, I¡¯ll ensure your body will be scattered to the wind.¡±


    Josie let out a sigh of relief.


    Mark, however, didn¡¯t understand. He shook his head at Dexter. ¡°No, no!¡±


    Dexter spoke softly. ¡°We need to withdraw first. There will be people covering our retreat. Two teams will apany him across the border. Josie will be safe.¡±


    The choice was a bit cold-hearted from Mark¡¯s perspective. Mark gazed at Josie, ¡°Jo¡­¡±


    A tremor ran through Josie¡¯s heart. She forced a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Mark was initially reluctant, but upon seeing her smile, he took a step back. ¡°How about this, Arnold? I will personally escort you out of the country, and I promise not toy a hand on you. What do you say?¡±


    With Josie present, Mark wouldn¡¯t dare to make a move. Thus, Arnold said, ¡°That¡¯s certainly better.¡±


    Dexter had abruptly jumped off the boat, leading the lifeboat away as if there was some urgent matter. That caught Josie¡¯s attention. She felt a pang of suspicion in her heart, yet she wasn¡¯t certain.


    Arnold had also noticed, his eyes deep and thoughtful. After Dexter departed, Arnold¡¯s ship immediately set sail for international waters.


    Meanwhile, at the dock, Caleb had been waiting for a long time. Seeing Dexter return, he asked, ¡°Why is it only you? Where are the others?¡±

 Chapter 1224

    Dexter moved swiftly. ¡°Another matter hase up. Where¡¯s Mr. Dalton?¡±


    ¡°We couldn¡¯t find anything on him. The merchandise was a feint, so we had no choice but to let him go.¡±


    Dexter walked straight to the car. ¡°I need to head back to Rivodia immediately. I¡¯m leaving Wavery in your hands.¡±


    Caleb looked puzzled. ¡°What? Something wrong with Arnold?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t have time to exin further. Seeing the situation, Calvin, who was not far off, promptly took the driver¡¯s seat. ¡°I¡¯ll drive you there.¡±


    Once he got in the car, Dexter noticed several missed calls from Justin. He took a few deep breaths before returning the call. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    When Justin finally got through, he said, ¡°Grape is missing. She was insisting on seeing you guys. I thought I¡¯d take her out for a bit of fun. We had three or four bodyguards with us, but she vanished in the blink of an eye. We can¡¯t even find her on the surveince footage.¡±


    Leaning back, Dexter closed his eyes in exhaustion. ¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡±


    ¡°My sister-¡± The call had already been disconnected.


    Calvin nced at the man in the rearview mirror, a sense of foreboding washing over her. ¡°The flight¡¯s already booked, the earliest one avable. You don¡¯t look well. You should take your medicine first.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Dexter didn¡¯t respond, nor did he make a move. His mind was filled with the images andughter of Josie and the child, Grape. He thought he must be a loser. He failed to protect the two most important people in his life at the most crucial moment.


    A wave of intense self-reproach and guilt washed over him, threatening to drown him.


    The ne swiftly touched down in Rivodia. Justin and his group were close to the airport. He was quite clever, remarking, ¡°Everyone who was present when Grape went missing is here now.¡±


    Dexter swept his stern gaze over everyone present, his pale facemanding respect without showing anger. ¡°Think carefully about how you answer my question. One slight mistake, and you can kiss your ability to speak goodbye.¡±


    beyond the border, the ship was moving at an unusually slow pace due to its damage. As if fearing something might happen to Josie, Mark remained steadfast, keeping watch from his original position. ¡°Under such a zing sun, it¡¯s hard on an old man like me to keep youpany here, enduring the scorching heat.¡±


    Arnold sat down where he was, letting out a wryugh filled with emotion.


    Josie¡¯s emotions were a tangled mess as she watched Mark¡¯s figure. She was suddenly reminded of the night she left Wavery. She had wanted to see them onest time, but her wish wasn¡¯t fulfilled.


    ¡°Mind your own business. Do you think Mr. Dalton will spare you once you leave the country?¡± Her gaze fell upon Arnold¡¯s bare arm, where the scars still lingered.


    ¡°You¡¯re so certain that I would get hurt?¡± said Arnold.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say it yourself? The mission wasn¡¯tpleted. You were even willing to blow up this ship. However, it seems Mr. Dalton hasn¡¯t made his move yet. It appears he¡¯s chosen to protect you.¡±


    She¡¯s indeed smart. Arnold¡¯s lips were unusually pale as he spoke. ¡°Of course he would protect me. After all, Mr. Vipera¡¯s goods were never sold, and the cash being transported on this ship was nothing more than a cover.¡±


    ¡°A cover-¡± Suddenly, Josie rose from the ground. Her eyes widened in shock as she noticed blood trickling from Arnold¡¯s waist, staining his clothes a dark brown. Not far off, Josephine also noticed and, with a gasp of surprise, moved forward, only to be stopped by a raised hand from Arnold.


    Arnold tilted his head back to meet Josie¡¯s gaze. ¡°Only a fraction of that cash was real. The rest was all counterfeit.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows furrowed in concern. She shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Why would you take such a risk?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s entrapment. Didn¡¯t I manage to get you and Dexter?¡±


    Josie wished nothing more than to y that man on the spot.Josephine simply couldn¡¯t interject into the conversation between the two. She could only observe as their lengthy back-and-forth unfolded.


    Her voice was faint. ¡°Robyn, you¡¯re injured¡­¡±

 Chapter 1225

    Arnold merely nced once. ¡°It¡¯s just a stray bullet. No big deal.¡±


    However, Josie had already swiftly picked up his gun, gripping it tightly with both hands. She pointed it at him. ¡°I really wish I could kill you right now.¡±


    Josephine lunged forward. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Arnold was not nervous at all. He gazed at the deep blue sky. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, thest person in the world who would want me dead is her.¡±


    He was right. Even when Josie gripped the gun tightly, several times contemting ending it all for him, she just couldn¡¯t bring herself to pull the trigger.


    She had too many things to consider.


    The ship set sail, with Wayne¡¯s men waiting offshore to receive it. In the midst of this, Mark respectfully sounded the ship¡¯s horn as a signal.


    Finally, Josie withdrew her hand. Arnold watched her silhouette. ¡°Get off the boat, go.¡±


    Not only was Josephine surprised, but even Josie didn¡¯t expect him to be so forthright.


    ¡°What, you don¡¯t want to leave?¡± remarked Arnold.


    Josie tossed the gun to Scar, who was nearby. Thetter hastily caught it, then asked, ¡°What about the two undercover agents? Should we release them, too?¡±


    ¡°Release? See if they¡¯re still where we left them.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Josie finally felt at ease to disembark from the boat. Her silhouette was resolute as she walked away. Mark was waiting on the other side, watching her safely cross over. He was almost moved to tears. ¡°Josie¡­¡±


    After a moment of hesitation, Josie finally took his hand, using his strength to board the ship. She paused briefly before saying, ¡°I¡¯m okay now.¡±


    Suddenly, Mark reached out, pulling her into his embrace. ¡°You¡¯re back. That¡¯s all that matters.¡±


    The sound of the old man¡¯s tears of joy echoed in her ears, and it was hard for her not to be moved. Yet, she didn¡¯t know how to express her feelings. After a long while, when he finally let go, she asked, ¡°Where is Dexter?¡±


    Wiping away his tears, Mark couldn¡¯t get enough of the sight before him. ¡°There must be some urgent matter demanding his attention. Let¡¯s head back first, okay?¡±


    Josie looked behind him, where his entourage stood at the ready. In unison, they called out, ¡°Ms. Olsen!¡±


    It seemed that was the treatment the sole heiress of the Olsen family should have received.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Josie lowered her gaze. ¡°You should go back.¡±


    Naturally, they docked at the pier in Wavery. Mallory had been waiting for a long time, and among her were some important leaders. It seemed that Mark¡¯s emergence at that time had truly shaken everyone up. ¡°Old Mr. Olsen, how¡¯s your health? Everything alright?¡±


    Throughout, Mark held onto Josie¡¯s hand tightly, his emotions running high. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± He insisted urgently, ¡°Quickly, find a doctor for my daughter. She¡¯s been frightened and she¡¯s been locked up in the water dungeon for far too long!¡±


    Thus, after all themotion, Josie still went ahead and got the check-up first. There wasn¡¯t any serious issue, but a stay in the hospital for an IV drip was necessary for her.


    ¡°I¡¯m relieved you¡¯re okay. You really scared me.¡± Mallory said, seizing an opportunity to converse with Josie. She then shared crucial news to ease Josie¡¯s worries. ¡°Dexter had to return to Rivodia urgently, but don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t want to admit her worries. As she watched Scott busily pacing outside the hospital room, she couldn¡¯t help but call him in. ¡°Arnold personally told me the cash was counterfeit. We¡¯ve been duped.¡±


    Scott let out a sigh. ¡°We¡¯re aware now. It¡¯s our fault for not nning thoroughly enough. Ms. Warren, you shouldn¡¯t bear such a heavy burden.¡±


    Josie pressed her lips together, reflecting that perhaps if she had been a bit moreposed, things might not have turned out this way.


    Seeing her look of loss, Scott joked, ¡°We can¡¯t call you Ms. Warren anymore. Should we change that now?¡±


    Her gaze fell upon Mark, busily working outside. He was hands-on with many things, unlike an elder holding a high position.


    Mallory crossed her arms. ¡°The Olsen family has indeed made significant efforts to find you these past two years.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression remained calm. Something crossed her mind, and she asked, ¡°How could Mark have found out about this?¡±

 Chapter 1226

    Mallory cleared her throat. ¡°It¡¯s hard not to know about themotion that¡¯s been happening within the borders of Wavery.¡±


    Josie nced at her, seemingly understanding everything.


    By the time everything was wrapped up, it was already evening. Josie felt utterly exhausted, her body aching all over after a full day of acupuncture treatments.


    Surprisingly, Mark hadn¡¯t left yet. He was in good spirits, but there was a hint of caution in his demeanor. ¡°Josie, the doctor said you¡¯re out of danger now. It¡¯s not ideal for you to stay in the hospital indefinitely. You don¡¯t have a permanent residence in Wavery, so how about¡­ How about youe back with me to the Olsen Residence?¡±


    He spoke cautiously, fearing she might disagree.


    Seeing Josie¡¯s expression change, he quickly added, ¡°Of course, if you¡¯re notfortable with it, that¡¯s fine, too. I can arrange for a hotel or an apartment. You can choose wherever you want to go. I won¡¯t force you!¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Mallory nced at Josie¡¯s expression and subtly pinched her. The meaning behind her action was self-evident.


    Josie lowered her long eyshes. The Olsen Residence held too many unpleasant memories for her. However, given the circumstances, since the Olsen family was already involved, she had to take control. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll go back with you.¡±


    Mark¡¯s face lit up with excitement, and he suddenly pped his thigh. ¡°All right, I¡¯ll have someone prepare the car!¡±


    After he had helped her into the car, Mallory went off to attend to other matters. Along the way, he kept sending her messages: Don¡¯t be foolish. Make sure to seize the Olsen family¡¯s resources. They all belonged to you. Neither familial love nor romantic love could ever outweigh the importance of money. Don¡¯t just hand it over to others.


    Josie¡¯s lips curved into a smile. As she lifted her head, her gaze met the driver¡¯s. Taking the initiative, the driver introduced himself. ¡°Ms. Olsen, I am Old Mr. Olsen¡¯s personal assistant. We met a few times two years ago. You can call me Draco.¡±


    Being a personal assistant was a prestigious position, even allowing him to drive her around personally.


    Josie rolled down her car window, the evening breeze causing her hair to be a disheveled mess. It had been two years since shest returned, and the streets of Wavery had changed significantly.


    She didn¡¯t expect things to change that much. ¡°Have there been a lot of changes in the Olsen family?¡±


    ¡°You can take a look at this yourself, Ms. Olsen, answered the driver.


    The vast expanse remained unchanged, but theyout had undergone significant transformation. It was evident that it had been renovated. As they drove in, the mansion was brightly lit, resembling a castle. Housekeepers and bodyguards stood in line, and leading them was none other than udia.


    Mark¡¯s car was leading the way. He was the first to get out, exchanging a few words with udia. Subsequently, her expectant gaze immediately fell on Josie¡¯s car.


    Draco said, ¡°You¡¯ve been on Mrs. Olsen¡¯s mind constantly for the past two years.¡±


    udia hadn¡¯t changed much from the image in Josie¡¯s memory, still exuding an air of grace andposure. A gentle breeze rustled through his hair, revealing a touch more white than before.


    Josie sat in the car for a while, her heart pounding uncontrobly. She never dreamed he would return.


    She mentally prepared herself to get out of the car. The housekeepers and bodyguards chimed in unison, ¡°Wee home, Ms. Olsen!¡±


    Josie was indifferent, locking eyes with udia from afar. One was cold and detached, the other anxious. Despite the distance between them, they both harbored unspeakable pain.


    For a moment, she stepped forward. In haste, Mark said, ¡°Your mother heard that I wasing to pick you up. She spent the entire day anxiously waiting by the door. These past two years, both she and I, we¡¯ve missed you terribly.¡±


    Josie had already approached, and she called out, ¡°Ma¡¯am.¡±


    The warm and proud expression on Mark¡¯s face suddenly froze, and the faint smile on udia¡¯s face also came to a halt.


    The atmosphere was tense, with only the chirping of nocturnal insects piercing the silence of the night.


    However, udia reacted swiftly. She scrutinized Josie from head to toe, nodding her head in a mix of relief and reassurance. ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re okay. Let¡¯s go inside and talk, it¡¯s quite windy out here.¡±

 Chapter 1227

    What remained unchanged over the years was udia¡¯s refreshing and gentle aesthetic sense. Although the house had been refurbished, one could still sense the spirit within. It wasn¡¯t just about opulence. What mattered more was the familiarity it held.


    ¡°Something unfortunate happened in the past, so we had to start over. All the arrangements here are your mother¡¯s¡­ udia reviewed all your design works and personally redesigned them. Take a look. Don¡¯t they look familiar?¡± said Mark


    Upon hearing that, Josie understood. No wonder it feels familiar. It turned out that most of the ce is rted to my own design.


    She surveyed the surroundings, refraining from passing any judgment. Mark followed closely behind Josie, eagerly anticipating her response.


    After a while, Josie smiled, turning her gaze toward the gentle and serene udia. ¡°Stealing my ideas couldnd you in court.¡±


    Everyone present felt their hearts skip a beat. She really doesn¡¯t mince her words.


    Those sentiments of maternal longing failed to move Josie. On the contrary, she remained utterly indifferent and cool.


    udia calmly expressed, ¡°Indeed, I didn¡¯t consider things thoroughly enough. If you¡¯re upset, I¡¯ll assemble a new team to rectify this.¡±


    It seemed as though she was overbearing.


    Josie pressed her lips together. ¡°Just kidding.¡±


    Mark and udia exchanged nces, unsure whether they shouldugh at the joke or not.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired. Could you please tell me where my room is?¡± asked Josie.


    Regaining hisposure, Mark quickly said, ¡°Everything has been prepared for you. Cross the hall, and you¡¯ll find a standalone building in the backyard. It¡¯s all yours.¡±


    That was the best spot. It had remained vacant for the past two years.


    ¡°Emily, quickly escort her to there,¡± ordered Mark.


    Immediately, a young housekeeper stepped forward, guiding Josie onward.


    As Josie passed by the crowd, her expression remained indifferent. She only lifted her gaze once, locking eyes with the nanny nny from the Russell family. Afterward, a faint hint of mockery tugged at the corner of her mouth.


    Two years ago, Dexter had nted a mole in the Russell family. Surprisingly, even now, the mole remained deeply embedded there, undetected.


    Mark and udia stood still, silently watching Josie walk away, unable to speak for a long time.


    Thetter let out a soft sigh. ¡°She has lost a lot of weight.¡±


    Mark gently wrapped his arms around udia¡¯s shoulders, giving her aforting pat. ¡°She¡¯ll recover.¡± I wonder, will her heart recover as well?


    The backyard was dotted with numerous standalone mansions, but Josie¡¯s was the most notable. It boasted the best location, situated right at the center.


    Emily must have been new around there. She enthusiastically introduced Josie. ¡°This house has finally weed its rightful owner. Over the past two years, Mrs. Olsen has beening to clean every single day. She¡¯s been truly dedicated.¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    In the courtyard, a magnolia tree had been nted. It was the season of blossoming, and the fragrance of the flowers filled the air, falling into the embrace of the night.


    Josie stood in the yard for a while, gazing into the distance. ¡°Whose house is that over there?¡±


    ¡°It belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Olsen, but the two of them rarely stayed here.¡±


    ¡°What about the other side?¡±


    Looking over, Emily said, ¡°It¡¯s been abandoned. Mrs. Olsen told us not to clean it, saying it doesn¡¯t need any attention.¡±


    At that point, Josie probably understood it belonged to Summer.


    The house was immacte, so much so that it wouldn¡¯t be an exaggeration to say it was spotless. The walk-in closet was stocked with all the season¡¯s clothing. Nothing was missing. Josie leaned against the door, her emotions a tangled web.


    After sending Emily away, Josie took a shower just as her phone finished charging.


    Aside from news about Mallory, there was nothing else.


    She furrowed her brows slightly, a sense of unease continuing to ferment within her. Dexter had been gone for several hours without a single message, which was unlike him.


    She typed a line of text into the box, then deleted it, repeating that process several times, but she couldn¡¯t bring himself to send it.

 Chapter 1228

    Taking a deep breath, Josie berated herself internally. Is it really that hard to take the initiative?


    In her mind, she recalled the words Arnold had once spoken. He had told her that on the night she left Wavery, Dexter had attempted to give up on his own life.


    Such decisiveness, it even took her by surprise, leaving her astounded.


    Is the reason for his poor health and heart issues rted to that night? Josie¡¯s mind was a tangled mess. After some thought, she decided to give up and dialed Justin¡¯s number. There was no answer for a long time. Just as she was about to hang up, Justin picked up, sounding somewhat flustered, ¡°Hello.¡±


    Josie was puzzled. ¡°Why did it take you so long to answer? Where¡¯s Grape?¡±


    ¡°There was a bit of a situation just now¡­ As for Grape, she¡¯s already asleep. It¡¯ste already..¡±


    ncing at the clock, Josie understood clearly, ¡°How has she been these past few days? Has she missed me? Is she adapting well?¡±


    Justin coughed lightly, speaking slowly as if carefully choosing his words. ¡°She¡¯s doing well. Whenever she misses you, she looks at your picture. She¡¯s very obedient.¡±


    ¡°Did you take any pictures? I¡¯d love to see them.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t mention wanting to take a picture. Maybe next time. By the way, when are youing back?¡± Justin changed the subject.


    Josie hesitated, then spoke the truth. ¡°I¡¯ve been injured, and I¡¯m currently at the Olsen residence in Wavery. I might have to stay here for a few days.¡±


    Justin wasn¡¯t sure if he had fully understood, but he responded anyway. ¡°That works too. Stay where you are, then. It¡¯s gettingte. I¡¯m hanging up now.¡±


    Josie felt something was off, but she couldn¡¯t pinpoint what it was. Suddenly, she asked, ¡°How are things in Rivodia? Have you seen Dexter? How is he?¡±


    Meanwhile, in Rivodia, across from Justin, there sat a man whose emotions never reflected on his face, his pupils pitch ck.


    After Justin finished speaking with his lips, Dexter wrote three words on the paper. ¡°All is well.¡±


    ¡°Everything is fine. Don¡¯t worry yourself over it. I¡¯m going to hang up now,¡± Justin said on the phone.


    After hanging up the phone, Justin finally let out a sigh of relief. With a look of dread on his face, he turned to Dexter and said, ¡°The third group has returned as well, but they still haven¡¯t found her.¡±


    Dexter capped his pen. ¡°The reinforcements from Wavery will be here soon.¡±


    As he rose to leave, he felt exhausted and was travel-worn. Larry happened to walk in. Matching his pace, he followed and said, ¡°We¡¯ve arrived, and everyone is assembling. If Mr. Dalton doesn¡¯t want to risk everything, he won¡¯ty a hand on Grape. Don¡¯t worry too much.¡±


    However, Grape was Dexter¡¯s daughter, so how could he not worry?


    Dexter rubbed his forehead, his voice already hoarse. ¡°If anything happens to her, I don¡¯t know how I would face Josie, let alone myself.¡±


    With difficulty, Justin apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. If I had been more vignt, this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡±


    ¡°What I want isn¡¯t an apology but remedy.¡± Without breaking his stride, Dexter dered, ¡°If we can¡¯t find her before dawn, we¡¯ll have to contact the state authorities directly.¡±


    Wayne was not yet driven to such extremes.


    There were still six hours left until dawn.


    Larry sat in the driver¡¯s seat, not starting the car. He turned around and said, ¡°Regardless, you should take your medicine first. Mr. Russell, you don¡¯t look well.¡±


    Dexter was pale from overexertion.


    Feeling unwell all over, Dexter reluctantly epted the medicine handed to him. He swallowed it dry, closing his eyes to alleviate his difort.


    Outside, Justin received an unexpected phone call. With a thrill of excitement, he rolled down the car window and announced, ¡°We¡¯ve got news. She¡¯s in an abandoned vige east of the city.¡±


    Dexter cast a stern nce at him. ¡°Take two groups of people and head straight there!¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    In the abandoned vige, a ce devoid of people, it was hard to fathom the hardships Grape must have endured.

 Chapter 1229

    Josie endured a fitful night¡¯s sleep, jolting awake multiple times in the darkness. Consequently, she appeared somewhat pallid and fatigued as dawn approached.


    Despite her evident misery and exhaustion, her innate elegance remained undiminished.


    ¡°You¡¯re up quite early,¡± remarked Emily, her surprise evident. ¡°Mr. Olsen just headed out for his morning run, and Mrs. Olsen is still in bed.¡±


    Perplexed, Josie took a seat and asked, ¡°Morning run?¡±


    That didn¡¯t seem right. Mark had been in poor health in the past, often visiting the hospital. How could he now have the energy for morning jogs?This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Noting Josie¡¯s confusion, Emily exined, ¡°Yes, Mr. Olsen always has this habit, saying it¡¯s a way to stay physically active.¡±


    Such a habit must have been cultivated only within the past couple of years.


    Josie nursed a splitting headache, gesturing to Emily for a cup of coffee. Her mind started to drift, reying Justin¡¯s words once more.


    Something wasn¡¯t right. Justin had always been opposed to her going back to the Olsen Residence. Yet yesterday, he seemed oddly indifferent, dodging the issue altogether.


    Before Josie could unravel the mystery, the sharp roar of a sports car shattered the silence. She nced up to see a brand-new Rolls-Royce wlessly parked at the entrance. A mboyantly dressed man emerged, exuding an aura of confidence as he strode in.


    ¡°Mr. Olsen? Why the sudden return?¡± Emily¡¯s surprise was palpable.


    It was unmistakably Zach, his purpose evident. Ignoring the servants, he made a beeline for Josie.


    Josie was delighted to see him. She eased back into her chair, anticipating his approach.


    Zach mmed his hands onto the table, his face twisted in fury. His re bore into Josie, his voice dripping with anger. ¡°Leave. Now.¡±


    Baffled, Josie arched an eyebrow. ¡°And who might you be?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your father,¡± Zach spat out, wasting no time as he lunged forward, seizing Josie¡¯s arm and forcibly pulling her away. ¡°You¡¯ve got nerve, returning to the Olsen Residence. I¡¯ve never seen such shamelessness.¡±


    Josie, however, hadn¡¯t spent the past years training for nothing. She swiftly broke free, pivoting to pin Zach¡¯s arm against the table. ¡°All sh and no substance. That won¡¯t cut it.¡±


    Writhing in agony, Zach struggled desperately. ¡°Let me go!¡±


    Ignoring his pleas, Josie tightened her grip. Zach¡¯s voice rose to a frantic pitch, ¡°I said let go, Josie!¡±


    ¡°Even though you know my name, you still challenge me.¡± Josie leaned in closer. ¡°Apologize, and I might consider releasing you.¡±


    With disdain, Zach spat at her, a sneer contorting his face. ¡°You¡¯re not worthy of that!¡±


    Josie swiftly evaded the spittle. ¡°Then don¡¯t me me for not showing you any mercy.¡±


    Emily, fraught with worry and unsure of what to do, stood by helplessly. ¡°Please, don¡¯t fight!¡±


    Josie hadn¡¯t intended to escte things with Zach. Sustaining the struggle had taxed her strength more than she anticipated, prompting her to release him.


    ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve seen a dog causing chaos in its own backyard,¡± Josie remarked, straightforward and to the point.


    Shaking his hand to ease the ache, Zach fired back with equal bluntness, ¡°You¡¯re correct about one thing-it¡¯s my domain, not yours! So why are you here, stirring up trouble?¡±


    Zach had spent thest night in the nightclub, drinking excessively. After having one too many, he caught wind of talk about the Olsen family causing a stir, aiming to bring the real Liana back.


    He had specifically asked the person who said that for confirmation.


    Fueled by rage, Zach mmed his wine ss down, ready to throw a punch. ¡°What rubbish are you spewing?¡±


    The man recoiled in fear. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ It¡¯s true. My brother works for the Department of Transportation. He mentioned seeing it while clearing the roads¡­¡±


    Zach sobered uppletely from his drunken stupor, cursing quietly to himself as he drove through the night back to the Olsen residence.


    Upon his arrival, he was met with the sight of Josie, aloof andposed, seated confidently at the head of the table, exuding defiance.


    Taking a leisurely sip of her coffee, Josie responded with a hint of amusement, ¡°You probably shouldn¡¯t be sharing this with me. If you¡¯re brave enough, go tell Mark.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re nothing but a lowlife,¡± Zach spat back, his disdain palpable. ¡°You¡¯re not even worthy of speaking my father¡¯s name.¡±

 Chapter 1230

    ¡°Zach Olsen!¡± A sharp female voice sliced through the air, halting Zach¡¯s words mid- sentence. He paused, his eyes shifting from Josie to udia. Dressed in her nightgown, udia stood at the entrance of the elevator, her expression impassive but her tone filled with anger.


    Zach¡¯s lips formed a pout. ¡°Mother, I didn¡¯t say anything inappropriate.¡±


    udia approached him directly, her voice stern. ¡°Apologize.¡±


    ¡°What are you-¡± Zach began, but udia interrupted firmly.


    ¡°I insist that you apologize to your sister!¡±


    The term ¡°sister¡± hit Josie and Zach like a bolt from the blue, leaving them both momentarily stunned.


    Zach fixed his gaze on Josie, his disbelief evident. ¡°Her? My sister? Mother, I could never bring myself to call her that in this lifetime.¡±


    He had barely finished his sentence when udia¡¯s hand connected with his cheek in a resounding p. Zach recoiled, his expression a mixture of shock and disbelief. ¡°You hit me for her sake. It appears you¡¯re determined to acknowledge this girl as your daughter. But what about me? Am I not your son?¡±


    Josie was caught off guard by udia¡¯s determination, her brow furrowing in response.


    ¡°I never intended to be his sister anyway,¡± Josie retorted.


    This could be considered a double entendre.


    udia continued ring at her son, her chest heaving. ¡°We¡¯ve pampered and spoiled you since young. That¡¯s why you turned out like this! You must apologize to her no matter who she is to you!¡±


    Zach felt a surge of frustration constricting his chest, leaving him suffocated by its weight. However, udia was adamant. Responding with biting sarcasm, he quipped, ¡°I apologize for my pettiness. Our abode is vast enough to entertain guests. My sincerest apologies, Ms. Warren.¡±


    He entuated thest name with deliberate emphasis.


    His childish jabs only served to exacerbate Josie¡¯s pounding headache.


    At that moment, Mark returned from his morning run, his brow glistening with sweat. It was clear he had grown notably healthier.


    Seemingly oblivious to Zach¡¯s presence, Mark approached Josie cheerfully. ¡°You¡¯re up early, Leanne. What can I have the kitchen whip up for you?¡±


    Josie took a sip of her coffee, setting it down gently. ¡°I¡¯m not really hungry,¡± she murmured.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    ¡°Oh¡­ Well, maybe just a light sd then. You should have something to eat to stay healthy,¡± Mark insisted, his tone gentle and caring.


    He was clearly bending over backward to please Josie.


    A slight twitch pulled at the corner of Zach¡¯s mouth as he observed the exchange. Unable to contain himself any longer, he interjected, ¡°Dad.¡±


    Mark turned his attention to Zach, offering a casual acknowledgment. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Growing increasingly frustrated, Zach raised his voice. ¡°Dad!¡±


    Mark¡¯s demeanor shifted abruptly, his voice nowced with intimidation. ¡°What¡¯s with this ruckus early in the morning!¡±


    Zach couldn¡¯t believe it when his father¡¯s voice boomed in rebuke. Josie, holding her coffee cup with delicate poise, wore a smug smile that irked Zach to his core. ¡°Dad,¡± he began, ¡°we need to talk. Let¡¯s go to the study.¡±


    But before he could take more than a couple of steps, Mark grumbled impatiently, ¡°Why bother with the study? Just speak your mind here. Leanne is family!¡±


    ¡°Even you?¡± Zach¡¯s frustration simmered as he sank into a chair. ¡°So none of you have been able to let her go all these years, huh? I want the truth. Are you nning to wee Josie back into the family?¡±


    Josie, as the protagonist, observed the drama unfold with amusement like a bystander.


    udia said indifferently, ¡°What does that have to do with you? You should worry about yourself. And what about Laura? When is she returning?¡±


    Zach was caught off guard by the question. ¡°How would I know? She¡¯s always been so unpredictable.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t have the courage to get a divorce, then shut up. Weakness has no ce in the Olsen family.¡± Mark¡¯s words hit the nail on the head.


    Zach ended up bearing the brunt of criticism before the issue with Josie could be resolved.


    As Josie observed the unfolding events, she felt sorry for Zach. In the past, he could maintain his facade of a polished scoundrel. Now, however, the true extent of his sheltered and privileged upbringing wasid bare for all to see. It was evident that he was adrift,cking a true sense of self.

 Chapter 1231

    In the end, Zach stormed off in frustration. He dared not leave the Olsen Residence entirely, retreating instead to the sce of his own room.


    Mark¡¯s initial displeasure softened into apassionate smile as he addressed Josie. ¡°He hasn¡¯t matured over the years. Pay him no mind. The Olsen family¡¯s affairs will never be entrusted to someone like him.¡±


    His words were candid, sparing no dignity for Zach. Worried that Josie might overthink, Mark deliberately provided reassurance with his exnation.


    Josie raised an eyebrow, her gaze shifting to udia, who stood beside her. Despite their simr auras as mother and daughter, udia appeared slightly more unsettled in that moment.


    ¡°As an outsider, how you choose to distribute the assets of the Olsen family isn¡¯t my concern,¡± Josie remarked straightforwardly, setting her empty coffee cup down.


    ¡°Why do you say it¡¯s not your concern?¡± Mark¡¯s tone betrayed his unease. ¡°You are part of the Olsen family. Regardless of your refusal to acknowledge it, our blood ties are undeniable. It¡¯s my responsibility to ensure you understand this.¡±


    He genuinely treated her as one of the family. Josie felt uneasy upon witnessing his attitude. If this were two years ago, I probably wouldn¡¯t have wasted so much time.


    She offered a wry smile. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Olsen, for your assistance these past few days. I may need to stay here a few more days. As your guest, I understand the importance of amodating my host. Please, don¡¯t worry about what I think.¡±


    Her words carried a subtle hint of refusal.


    Before Mark could respond, udia interjected with a gentle cough. ¡°All right. You¡¯re sweaty and¡­ fragrant. Go take a shower first.¡±


    Mark hesitated, seemingly poised to speak, but a nce from his wife prompted him to rise and leave the room.


    As Emily brought out the food, she announced, ¡°Your meal is ready.¡±


    Josie thanked her curtly, nning to excuse herself, but udia intervened, extending a hand to stop her. ¡°The chef¡¯s cooking is not bad. You should give it a try,¡± she suggested.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Her gentle tone masked an underlying sense of authority, and Josie understood that udia had something to say.


    ¡°I understand that returning to the Olsen family wasn¡¯t your intention. If it weren¡¯t for these unforeseen circumstances, you probably wouldn¡¯t have even considereding back to Wavery,¡± udia said, sitting opposite Josie, her words cutting straight to the point.


    Josie pressed her lips together, her expression guarded. ¡°Since you already knew, why force it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to pressure you,¡± udia insisted, her head shaking gently. ¡°Two years ago, the entire world knew you as Liana, the long-lost daughter of the Olsen family. During these past two years, you went abroad in search of freedom, and no one could fault you for that. But now that you¡¯ve resurfaced in the public eye, you¡¯re inevitably subject to scrutiny. You must recognize that the Olsen family can provide a safe haven.¡±


    Her reasoning sounded logical, and Josie couldprehend it. However, she shook her head in disagreement. ¡°If I cared about those things, I wouldn¡¯t have reentered the public eye.¡±


    ¡°What about the people in Rivodia?¡± udia pressed on.


    This question left Josie speechless. The remnants of Wayne¡¯s faction posed a significant andplicated problem that seemed impossible to resolve.


    udia¡¯s lips curved into a smile when Josie fell silent. ¡°The Olsen family can also shield you from those people.¡±


    ¡°Mark may have reservations about expressing certain things directly, so I¡¯ll voice them,¡± udia continued, her tone tinged with solemnity. ¡°Leanne, if you desire to navigate Wavery without hindrance, it may be prudent to embrace this identity publicly. However, we would never force you to do so privately.¡±


    In truth, udia¡¯s motives appeared genuine, devoid of any ulterior motives. Her sole concern was ensuring Josie¡¯s well-being.


    Her gaze, though gentle, felt as sharp as a de, leaving Josie unsure of how to respond. After a prolonged pause, she finally nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll give it some thought.¡±


    As she finished speaking, Josie sampled a bite of the food before her. The Olsen family¡¯s chef undeniably possessed impressive culinary skills, she noted.

 Chapter 1232

    Upon returning to her residence, Josie hadn¡¯t anticipated encountering Zach in the courtyard.


    Leaning against the magnolia tree, he idly scrolled through his phone, bored. Upon hearing footsteps, he nced up abruptly.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got some nerve showing your face here,¡± Zach remarked bluntly.


    Josie turned to face him, closing the distance between them with deliberate steps. ¡°This is my home. Leave.¡±


    Her assertion carried an undertone of authority, and Zach immediately bristled. His agitation palpable, he retorted, ¡°Yours? I¡¯ve lived here for over twenty years. Who do you think you are?¡±


    Josie¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°When I resided here, you weren¡¯t even born.¡±


    Zach lost it and lunged forward, seizing her by the throat, his anger evident in his clenched teeth. ¡°If you dare to stay,¡± he threatened, ¡°I¡¯ll show you the consequences of messing with a local!¡±


    Josie felt a twinge of difort, but she refused to let it surface. Instead, she offered a smile. ¡°Zach, you haven¡¯t changed a bit in these two years.¡±


    Zach remained silent.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t even done anything yet, just stayed at your ce for a few days, and you¡¯re already so worked up. Aren¡¯t you a bit too impatient?¡± Josie¡¯s tone was calm, almost teasing.


    Zach wished he could kill her on the spot. ¡°You think you¡¯re high and mighty, don¡¯t you? Why don¡¯t you just leave? If you hate the Olsen family so much, why did youe back?¡±


    ¡°I had intended to leave,¡± Josie replied, her grip firm on his wrist as she slowly loosened his fingers one by one. ¡°But seeing you in this state now, I find it rather amusing. Suddenly, I don¡¯t feel like leaving anymore.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zach¡¯s voice cracked with frustration.


    Josie brushed Zach off, striding toward the door. ¡°Emily, please escort our guest out.¡±


    Emily appeared troubled as she nced at Zach, lowering her head. ¡°Mr. Olsen, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Go away!¡± Having no outlet for his anger, Zach kicked the tree trunk forcefully before storming off, consumed by rage.


    Returning to her room, Josie checked the time -already eight in the morning. Grape should be awake by now. She dialed Justin¡¯s number, but no one answered.


    Is he still asleep?This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Josie couldn¡¯t shake a sense of foreboding, though she couldn¡¯t quite exin why. Her apprehension grew, and she decided to call Dexter.


    Knowing he had returned to Rivodia to attend to some affairs, she hoped he would return home to check on Grape.


    Meanwhile, in a remote vige to the east of Rivodia, a group of individuals stood in disciplined formation, each gripping a weapon tightly, their eyes trained on the horizon.


    In the distance, a pack of hungry wolves prowled, their presence ominous and menacing, their eyes gleaming with hunger.


    Dexter stood in the formation. His subordinates


    informed him that Grape¡¯s location was nearby. However, they faced a predicament-they had to confront the menacing wolves before they could reach her.


    ¡°Mr. Russell, it might startle Grape if she hears the gunshots,¡± one of his subordinates cautioned.


    Dexter¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s what we should be worried about now,¡± he snapped in a hushed tone, his eyes narrowed with concern. The dpidated house behind the wolves likely held Grape, and the eerie silence from within only heightened his worry for her safety.


    Just as the tension peaked, Dexter¡¯s phone buzzed in his hand. Justin, noticing the interruption, nced over and was surprised to see Josie¡¯s name shing on the screen.


    ¡°Are you going to answer that?¡± Justin asked.


    Dexter hesitated, his grip on the phone tightening momentarily. Ultimately, he chose to decline the call but swiftlyposed a message: Currently upied, will return your call soon.


    His team members awaited his directives. In such critical moments, even the slightest error could prove costly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll enter from the back, where there aren¡¯t many wolves, to see if Grape¡¯s in there. If all¡¯s clear, you can proceed with gunfire,¡± Dexter directed, his tone firm.


    If Grape was indeed inside, he could at least ensure her well-being.


    Dexter¡¯s decisiveness scared Larry out of his wits. ¡°Those wolves are ruthless. It¡¯s too risky!¡±

 Chapter 1233

    But Dexter was already geared up, his firearm held firmly. His gaze conveyed a fierce resolve and unyielding determination.


    ¡°If I can¡¯t face this fear, how can I call myself a father?¡± Dexter¡¯s words cut through the tension.


    Without further ado, he rose and marched toward the area with fewer wolves. The group could only watch, gripped by apprehension.


    Today, facing the danger threatening his own daughter, Dexter finally knew what it was like to love a child. Urgency and worry surged within him; the mere thought of harm befalling his child filled him with an unbearable dread. He wouldn¡¯t want to live either if anything were to happen to her.


    Proficient inbat, Dexter was swift and agile. With a deft motion, he seized the leg of an attacking wolf and hurled it aside, outpacing the beast. His other leg swept low, tripping another wolf, its mournful howl piercing the air with a haunting echo.


    Yet, the sound drew the attention of the other wolves, their eyes gleaming with bloodthirsty anticipation as they closed in on Dexter.


    Dexter narrowed his eyes. His bodyguards positioned nearby braced themselves, ready to unleash a barrage of bullets.


    However, Dexter opted for hand-to-handbat, inching closer to the dpidated house with determination etched in his features.


    As his strength waned, a wolf that had been lurking nearby lunged at him from behind. Larry and the others watched in horror, their voices ringing out in warning, ¡°Watch out-¡°


    Dexter¡¯s response was swift; his elbow struck the wolf¡¯s head with precision, sending it crashing to the ground with a resounding thud.


    While the wolf had been malevolent, its hunger and weakness made it easy to deal with.


    Dexter harbored no desire to prolong the confrontation. He was near the house now, about to call out for Grape, when a haunting howl of a wolf pup reverberated from within.


    Dread seized him, suffusing his heart with anguish.


    The presence of wolves inside the house could only mean one of two possibilities: either Grape wasn¡¯t there, or she had already fallen prey to the beasts.


    Observing Dexter¡¯s sudden halt, Justin panicked. ¡°What¡¯s happening to him?¡±


    Larry rose slowly, his expression mirroring the shock evident on Dexter¡¯s face. ¡°Maybe¡­ he senses that something has happened to Grape,¡± he mused aloud.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Justin¡¯s legs buckled beneath him, causing him to copse to the ground, his gaze distant and vacant.


    Despite being surrounded by wolves, Dexter swiftly regained hisposure. Summoning thest reserves of his strength, he pushed open the door of the house. Inside, he was met with a surprising sight-a litter of wolf pups, no more than a month old, huddled on the ground.


    Dexter¡¯s expression turned grave as a sense of foreboding washed over him, intensifying with each passing moment.


    Outside, the wolves¡¯ numbers continued to swell, heightening the imminent danger. In response, Dexter¡¯spanions swiftly readied their firearms, prepared to defend him at all costs.


    Just then, Dexter¡¯s gaze shifted to the wolf pups, where a piece of fabric caught his eye-a fragment of a child¡¯s clothing.


    And there, amidst the pups, he spotted her- Grape, who had evidently been here for some time, cradling a hungry wolf pup in her arms. Her delicate fingers stroked the pup¡¯s fur as she softly sang a nursery rhyme in her innocent voice, ¡°Oh, good doggy. Oh, good doggy. So cute and yful. Let¡¯s have some fun together.¡±


    As Dexter observed this tender scene, a tumult of emotions surged within him-the relief of having regained what he thought he had lost, mingled with a profound sense of gratitude. His eyes moistened slightly, and he couldn¡¯t articte the depth of his feelings.


    Turning around, Dexter raised a hand to signal the group outside to hold their fire. He then closed the door, barely stifling a chuckle.


    Perplexed, one of the bodyguards spoke up. ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    Larry was momentarily stunned, but swiftlyposed himself. ¡°Grape is in there¡­ She¡¯s inside!¡±


    After singing the nursery rhyme for the third time, Grape finally noticed the presence of someone else in the room.

 Chapter 1234

    Lifting her head, she spotted Dexter, her face lighting up with joy. With a beaming smile, she stood up with the wolf pup in her arms. ¡°Daddy! Daddy! You found me atst!¡± she eximed, excitement evident in her voice.


    Dexter opened his arms, ready to envelop her in a warm embrace as she rushed toward him. ¡°Yes, sweetheart. Where have you been? I¡¯ve been searching everywhere for you!¡±


    Since Wayne had managed to take Grape, it meant he had some tricks up his sleeves. For the time being, Dexter didn¡¯t know what those tricks were, and he couldn¡¯t reveal the truth in a way that might traumatize Grape.


    Carefully holding Grape, Dexter examined her from head to toe. ¡°Do you feel any difort anywhere?¡±


    Grape shook her head, then nodded, her stomach grumbling audibly. ¡°I¡¯m so hungry, and the puppy is too. I¡¯ve been waiting for so long. You¡¯re silly, Daddy, only finding me now. I want Mommy.¡±


    A child would undoubtedly be terrified being left alone in such a ce. Grape¡¯s fear seemed to dissipate when she saw Dexter, reced by a sense of relief and security.


    She clung to him tightly, unwilling to let go.


    Dexter effortlessly lifted her into his arms, his gaze shifting to the ck wolf cub nestled in her embrace.


    She couldn¡¯t even tell whether it was a dog or a wolf, yet herpassionate nature prevented her from abandoning the helpless creature.


    ¡°Sorry, Grape. I¡¯ll get you out of here right away. How long have you been waiting?¡± Dexter inquired, concern etched in his voice.


    Grape counted on her fingers before pointing outside. ¡°It¡¯s been several hours. I came in when it was still light, and now it¡¯s already dawn.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s heart ached at the thought. ¡°Weren¡¯t you scared?¡± he asked gently.


    ¡°I was scared at first, but I had the puppies to keep mepany. The nicedy assured me that Daddy and Mommy would find me soon,¡± Grape replied, her innocent face tinged with a hint of resilience.


    Dexter¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°What nicedy?¡± he inquired.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. She was really nice, though. She said she¡¯s your assistant and wanted to y hide and seek with me,¡± Grape exined innocently.


    Dexter had a faint inkling of who the ¡°assistant¡± might be. He gently pinched Grape¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯mte. Let¡¯s get out of here.¡±


    Grape held on to the wolf pup. ¡°Can I bring this puppy home?¡±


    Dexter couldn¡¯t help but smile at her request. ¡°Sure, why not,¡± he agreed. Keeping a wolf as a pet, huh?


    Tranquility had been restored outside as the pack of wolves had been dealt with by the bodyguards.


    Upon seeing Grape still energetic, Justin couldn¡¯t contain his relief. ¡°Sweetie, who were you with? You had me worried sick.¡±


    Dexter shot Justin a meaningful nce, silently signaling him not to press further into the matter.


    Justin fell into immediate silence at Dexter¡¯s unspoken signal.


    Once back at their residence and with her hunger sated, Grape began missing her mother. She clung tightly to Dexter¡¯s arm, tears streaming down her face as she pleaded, ¡°Phone. Mommy. I want to see Mommy.¡±


    Dexter gathered her close, attempting to reason with her. ¡°Look at the time, Grape. It¡¯s nap time. Mommy is resting too. Why don¡¯t you take a nap? When you wake up, I¡¯ll take you to see Mommy.¡±


    Though reluctant, Grape wasn¡¯t an unreasonable child. She relented, her lower lip jutting out in a pout. ¡°You can¡¯t break your promise.¡±


    ¡°I promise,¡± Dexter reassured her with sincerity.


    Larry finally spoke up after the housekeeper took the child away. ¡°We still haven¡¯t received any definite news about Arnold. We can¡¯t confirm his whereabouts. However, it seems Wayne will need some time to recover from the significant blow he¡¯s suffered.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gentle demeanor hardened. ¡°When will La Oriele bepleted?¡± he inquired, his tone crisp and businesslike.


    ¡°One month.¡±


    Turning to hisputer, he began to scrutinize the investigation report about Josie that had been forwarded from Wavery.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    There appeared to be no significant issues.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head back to Wavery,¡± he dered, catching Larry off guard.


    ¡°What about Paul?¡± Larry asked.


    ¡°Bring him back as well,¡± Dexter instructed without hesitation.


    A servant entered the room, interrupting their discussion. ¡°Mr. Russell, what should we do with the wolf Grape brought back?¡± the servant inquired.

 Chapter 1235

    Josie failed to get through to Dexter¡¯s phone. She waited for him to call back upon receiving his message, but he never did.


    Is he too upied? It certainly seems usible given the circumstances.


    Perched on the bay window, Josie hugged her knees to her chest, staring nkly at the magnolia tree below. Lost in thought, she was interrupted by Mallory¡¯s call. ¡°What are you up to?¡± she asked through the phone.


    Recognizing Mallory¡¯s mischievous tone, Josie couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Just daydreaming,¡± she replied casually.


    Mallory¡¯s response was swift. ¡°Daydreaming? In the vast expanse of the Olsen family¡¯s territory, with its art galleries and shopping centers? You can do better than that.¡±


    Josie sighed. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯re not busy, why don¡¯t we hang out? It¡¯s been ages since you¡¯ve been back. You should revisit the wonders of your homnd,¡± Mallory suggested.


    Back in Mallory¡¯s territory, Josie mulled over the suggestion and agreed.


    To her surprise, Mallory had chosen to meet near the bay, right by the arena belonging to the renowned Stardust team-a project Josie had personally designed.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Leaning against the car, Josie took a moment to observe it quietly. She did not expect to finally see the arena she designed with her own eyes.


    Mallory parked her car, holding her staff ID. ¡°There¡¯s a game today. Want to catch it?¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curled into a smile. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Mallory¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Russell Group has a stake in this club, and I¡¯ve got a share too,¡± she revealed, giving Josie¡¯s shoulder a friendly pat. ¡°Plus, I have a niece who ys for the team.¡±


    Josie nodded, recalling, ¡°I remember seeing it in the news.¡±


    Staff members could take the expressne, and as they walked, Mallory remarked, ¡°E-sports has be quite the trendy topictely. Some fans are as wild about yers as they are about celebrities.¡±


    Josie nced ahead and noticed the host inviting fans for a photo op on the stage. The fans were predominantly girls.


    Observing the young yers¡¯ progress, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of satisfaction and pride.


    Mallory jutted out her lips. ¡°Take a look at the one posing for a photo, dressed head to toe in luxury. Clearly notcking in wealth.¡±


    Josie nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Knowing you wereing, I¡¯ve arranged the best seat for you,¡± a staff member interjected, hastening to guide them.


    As they settled into their seat, Mallory continued, ¡°But what you might not know is that after this arena was built, udia often frequented it.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡± Josie arched an eyebrow, genuinely perplexed. A middle-aged woman like udia who keeps to herself, watching e-sportspetitions?


    ¡°Why would I lie?¡± Mallory replied, a hint of intrigue in her tone. ¡°I don¡¯t even know if she understands e-sports, but she often came. She even made substantial donations to the club. Any guesses as to why?¡±


    Mallory¡¯s tone carried a mysterious air, leaving Josie shaking her head in bewilderment.


    She was known as Alice in the past, and it seemed improbable that anyone would know she was the one who designed this arena.


    ¡°The club manager asked her secretly, and udia said that the arena¡¯s design bore a striking resemnce to her daughter¡¯s style,¡± Mallory revealed.


    As her words hung in the air, Mallory gazed at Josie with eager anticipation.


    Josie, initially puzzled, suddenly grasped the implication. She nodded, realization dawning upon her. ¡°I understand now.¡±


    The arena¡¯s lights dimmed, signaling the impending start of thepetition. Mallory wore a look of astonishment, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°Aren¡¯t you surprised? Both heads of the Olsen family do care about you. You have a powerful backer, unlike me. The Olsen family could be yours if you want.¡±


    Josie, however, wasn¡¯t particrly interested in that.


    As thepetitionmenced, Stardust¡¯s performance lived up to expectations, delivering a thrilling spectacle.


    In the audience, murmurs floated around. ¡°Is that Michael? He seems to be from a wealthy family, doesn¡¯t he? Rumor has it that his father is one of the top tycoons in Wavery.¡±

 Chapter 1236

    ¡°No kidding. He¡¯s handsome and wealthy. Countless female fans are dying to throw themselves at him.¡±


    ¡°I saw online rumors about him and his teammate Helena being romantically involved. Is it true?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Are you tempted, Ms. Ava?¡±


    The other party pondered briefly before responding, ¡°I really want to give it a try. I¡¯ll find an opportunity to arrange a chance encounter.¡±


    Josie and Mallory exchanged a nce.


    Thetter couldn¡¯t stand that kind of behavior where a fan attempted to rise above their station, especially when it involved her niece¡¯s love interest. So, she casually remarked, ¡°Not everyone is interested in used goods, right?¡±


    As soon as those words were spoken, a momentary silence filled the air. Soon after, Mallory¡¯s chair was kicked hard, and a woman¡¯s voice from behind sternly demanded, ¡°Miss, I challenge you to repeat what you just said!¡±


    Mallory turned around leisurely and enunciated, ¡°I said not everyone is interested in used goods.¡±


    The woman was actually quite beautiful, with a nice figure and a pleasing face, even if there were traces of cosmetic surgery.


    The other party was visibly flustered. ¡°Used goods? You must be mistaken. I¡¯m not that kind of person. Do you think everyone is like you, harboring ill opinions of others?¡±


    This kind of talk might suit others, but it fell a bit short when it came to Mallory. Josie slightly turned her body andnguidly looked at Mallory, who continued criticizing the woman, ¡°You¡¯re not that kind of person? But aren¡¯t you the type who clings to any young, promising man from a good family background at first sight? If you¡¯re not a gold-digger, what are you? You act so high and mighty, but deep down, you¡¯re probably dying to offer yourself, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Mallory worked in entertainment venues. She managed many people of this sort in the past, so she was adept at targeting their sore spots.


    The woman was at a loss for words. She clutched her chest, so infuriated that she threatened to call the police.


    Mallory wasn¡¯t quite satisfied yet. She chuckled and added, ¡°You¡¯ve even extended your reach into the e-sports industry. You have quite a diverse portfolio there.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s security? I¡¯m going to ask the security to escort you out!¡±


    Their argument stirred quite amotion. Moreover, since it was in the VIP area, it quickly caught the attention of the arena manager. A few individuals hurried over and bowed respectfully. ¡°May we assist you with anything?¡±


    Ava rose indignantly. ¡°Get this insolent woman out of here, or I¡¯ll sue you all for defamation!¡±


    Earlier, under the dim lighting, Josie hadn¡¯t been able to see Ava¡¯s face clearly. But now, with all the lights in the VIP area turned on, thetter¡¯s features wereid bare for Josie to see.


    She found Ava somewhat familiar.


    While Josie scrutinized Ava, she realized thetter was also looking at her. Their eyes met, and both of them furrowed their brows.


    While the manager was busy coordinating, Mallory casually began to y on her phone, listening to their incessant jabber in the background.


    Ava¡¯s friend was no pushover either. She gently tugged at Ava¡¯s hand, whispering, ¡°Let it go. Look at what she¡¯s wearing. Her outfit is not cheap.¡±


    The friend was implying that Mallory was not to be trifled with.


    However, sensing the onlookers¡¯ gazes on her, Ava felt the need to speak up for herself no matter what. She said stubbornly, ¡°Unless she apologizes to me, this matter won¡¯t be settled.¡±


    ¡°Apologize to you? You¡¯ve got some nerve. I haven¡¯t even demanded an apology from you on our contestant¡¯s behalf yet. I¡¯ll make sure to warn Michael about you. I¡¯ll tell him to steer clear of women like you so he doesn¡¯t get taken advantage of.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±


    Ava¡¯s exasperated tone instantly reminded Josie that the woman was Zach¡¯s girlfriend. To be more precise, it¡¯s his ex-girlfriend, Ava, the pretentious woman. In the past, Ava mistook me for Laura and threw quite a fit. This exins everything.


    Josie found it amusing and curled her lips into a smirk.


    That smile irked Ava, prompting her to shift her gaze to Josie. ¡°What are youughing at?¡±

 Chapter 1237

    Josie was puzzled. ¡°Me?¡±


    It seemed that Ava had recognized Josie, too. Her finger hovered in the air for a moment before she pointed at thetter. ¡°You are¡­ Josie! We¡¯ve met before!¡±


    Josie felt a pang of regret for not wearing a mask when she left the house. It wasn¡¯t that she was afraid of Ava, but she just wanted to avoid unnecessary trouble.


    She feigned ignorance. ¡°Have we met before?¡±


    ¡°Stop pretending! It was you who set me up all those years ago, causing Zach to break up with me!¡± Ava became even more agitated. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? After tarnishing your reputation and fleeing to a distant ce, you¡¯ve realized that only Wavery can amodate you, so you want toe back to make a fortune?¡±


    As if she had found some newfound confidence, Ava arrogantly mocked Mallory, ¡°You call me a gold digger, but I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯tpare to your friend here. Everyone in Wavery knows that Josie is the biggest scheming gold digger!¡±


    Mallory lost herposure as Josie was dragged into the conversation. ¡°Could you repeat that?¡±


    Mallory was too agitated. Josie held Mallory back, shaking her head to signal thetter to calm down. Then, Josie turned to Ava and said, ¡°First of all, I need to make one thing clear. Your breakup with Zach has nothing to do with me. Given his personality, I suspect he grew tired of you, so I suggest you do some self-reflection to figure out the problem.¡±


    A smirk yed at the corner of Josie¡¯s mouth, leaving Ava almost unable to catch her breath. Ava stuttered but ultimately couldn¡¯t form aplete sentence in retort.


    Leaning back in her chair, Josie was visibly bored. ¡°Also, Zach has been married all this while, you know. Since you didn¡¯t want to break up with him, did you aim to rece the position of his wife? You seem quite fixated on being the third party.¡±


    Mallory struggled to suppress herughter, giving Josie a thumbs up in approval.


    Ava¡¯s hands fell heavily on the back of her chair. Struggling to suppress her temper, she retorted sarcastically, ¡°If I¡¯m the third party, what does that make you? At least I¡¯m better off than you. You¡¯re unable to return home, and your status is stolen. As weak and fragile as you are, you¡¯re hardly fit to be a daughter of the Olsen family.¡±


    Everyone in Wavery knew about the events of that year. Even though Josie had reimed what was rightfully hers in the most drastic way possible, she still couldn¡¯t garner any respect within the social circle.


    The smile at the corner of Josie¡¯s mouth slightly faded. Clearly, she had taken those remarks to heart.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Upon seeing the situation, Mallory was about to speak up, but she was still prevented from doing so.


    ¡°Josie, what difference does it make if you¡¯ve returned? Just as you said, Zach is still married. The Olsen family¡¯s assets are mostly under Laura¡¯s control. You¡¯re hardly in a position to im a share.¡±


    After saying all that, Ava finally vented her anger, and she once again assumed an air of superiority.


    The manager surveyed the chaotic scene before him, momentarily at a loss for how to handle the situation. There seemed to be nothing he could say.


    Given the circumstances, Ava was no longer in the mood to watch thepetition. She took her friend by the hand, and they promptly left the venue.


    Mallory looked at Josie with a face full of concern. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you argue back just now? The Olsen family would give you anything as long as you make the demand.¡±


    Josie felt somewhat weary. Rubbing her temples, she replied, ¡°I don¡¯t want to engage in petty squabbles like this. It¡¯s beneath me.¡±


    However, there was some truth in what Ava had said. After a moment of contemtion, she suddenly asked, ¡°Does Laura really control most of the Olsen family¡¯s wealth?¡±


    Mallory sighed. ¡°What do you think? Zach is too naive, and Mark can hardly keep up with her. The Olsen family needs someone capable to take over.¡±


    If Josie had returned earlier, Laura would¡¯ve had no part to y in all that.


    ¡°No worries. I trust Laura. Her taking charge is a good thing.¡±


    Mallory didn¡¯t see it that way. She casually crossed her long legs and said, ¡°After all, she¡¯s an outsider. I¡¯m afraid she might harbor ill intentions, and by then, it¡¯ll be toote.¡±


    Josie curved her lips in silence, seemingly lost in thought.

 Chapter 1238

    After watching thepetition, it was already past ten in the evening. The contestants still had follow-up interviews and activities to attend, so Josie didn¡¯t disturb them.


    She checked her phone several times within a minute.


    After receiving a phone call, Mallory said that she had an urgent matter to attend to and had to leave early. Josie took a taxi back to the Olsen residence. Not long after she left, her cell phone rang.


    It was unmistakably Dexter on the line. She had never answered a phone call this quickly before.


    ¡°Hey, where is Grape?¡±


    Grape had been on edge for quite a while and hadn¡¯t slept in a long time. So, when she finally fell asleep, she slept straight through to the evening. When she woke up, Dexter was already on a video call with Josie.


    The camera swayed for a moment before finally settling on Grape in her hand. She was incredibly adorable, waving at Josie on the phone screen. ¡°Mommy, good evening!¡±


    Josie¡¯s heart settled back into ce, heaving a sigh of relief. ¡°Good evening. What have you all been up to while I¡¯m not around?¡±


    Grape evidently nced at Dexter¡¯s spot, obediently responding, ¡°I was sleeping.¡±


    Josie was somewhat puzzled. She then heard Grape asking, ¡°Where are you, Mommy? I miss you. When are youing back?¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    At this question, Josie was momentarily at a loss for words. She gently and patiently exined, ¡°I¡¯ve told you I¡¯m away on a business trip. For now, it¡¯s just you and Daddy. While I¡¯m gone, I need you to help me take good care of Grandpa, okay?¡±


    Grape rubbed her eyes, her voice adorable. ¡°Okay.¡±


    With Josie¡¯s soothing words, the once restless Grape calmed down. It wasn¡¯t long before she happily went off to y with Justin.


    Dexter took the phone, his face appearing on the front camera. Despite showing signs of fatigue, he was almost wlessly photogenic.


    His voice was deep when he asked, ¡°Are you outside?¡±


    When the two were alone, Josie felt a bit tense. ¡°Well, I went to watch thepetition with Mallory.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s gaze was piercing and focused. ¡°How are things at the Olsen Residence?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a temporary stopover, nothing particrly special.¡±


    He hummed in agreement but did not share with her the experiences he had with Grape.


    The scene in the lens shifted, and he seemed to have moved to his study. Josie watched him for a moment before finally asking, ¡°You rushed back to Rivodia in such a hurry. Did something unexpected happen?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s regarding Mr. Dalton. There¡¯s no need to worry about. Josephine¡¯s father couldn¡¯te out for a while, leaving Mr. Dalton without a pir of support, inevitably causing him great distress. Also, regarding Paul, I¡¯ve arranged for a dedicated doctor to take care of him. There shouldn¡¯t be any major issues for the time being, so you can rest assured.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Josie responded with a series of affirming hums.


    Dexter cleared his throat subtly. In the brief silence that followed, he took the initiative to ask, ¡°How are you feeling? The medical facilities in Wavery are superior to those in Rivodia, so there¡¯s no need for you to rush back.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no problem¡­¡­¡± Upon mentioning this, it was inevitable to think of the words spoken by Arnold.


    She really wanted to ask him, on the day she left, whether he truly contemted ending his own life. But for some reason, when the words reached the tip of her tongue, she suddenly found herself unable to voice them.


    She was expectant yet fearful.


    Seeing her hesitate to speak, Dexter gently coaxed her, ¡°What is it that you want to say?¡±


    Josie pursed her lips, just about to speak, when the driver¡¯s GPS suddenly chimed in, ¡°You have arrived at your destination. Please remind passengers to take their belongings¡­¡±


    Looking up, it was unmistakably the Olsen Residence.


    The driver¡¯s eyes held a hint of envy.


    Josie stepped out of the car, telling him they¡¯d talkter before hanging up. After walking a few steps, she felt something was amiss. She sent him a message: Thanks for taking care of Grape these past few days.


    The Olsen Residence actually had a curfew, but after Josie returned, the lights were kept on all night and the front door was left wide open. However, she was oblivious to all of this.


    By the time she reached the eaves, Dexter had already responded: Take care of yourself. It¡¯s no easy task.

 Chapter 1239

    Josie had stayed upte, which resulted in her waking up the next day to find Mark and udia already seated at the dining table. Of course, there was also Zach.


    No one knew what had gotten into him, but after Josie returned, he never left the Olsen residence. No one had touched the food on the dining table. Josie stepped forward and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I overslept.¡±


    Zach looked at her, his face filled with dissatisfaction. ¡°You really think very highly of yourself, don¡¯t you?¡±


    With a sharp nce, Mark said, ¡°Eat up. Weren¡¯t you justining about being hungry? Maybe that will finally keep your mouth shut!¡±


    With a stern look, Zach red at Josie, reluctantly picking up his knife and fork to stuff food into his mouth.


    Understanding dawned on Josie. She said softly, ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t have to wait for me to start eating. You¡¯re my elders. It¡¯s not customary.¡±


    ¡°We weren¡¯t waiting!¡± Mark said with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m not that hungry. I like to read the newspaper before I eat, only then do I start my meal.¡±


    udia reached out, serving Josie a bowl of honey oatmeal, gently cing it in front of her. ¡°Were you outst night?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I went to watch thepetition with some friends.¡±


    ¡°I had instructed the housekeeper to leave the door open for you. I hope it didn¡¯t cause you any inconvenience.¡±


    udia always maintained her tender and understanding demeanor, reminiscent of the caring version of herself from the past. However, Josie could no longer reim the sentiments she once held.


    ¡°Do you need to revisit the hospital today?¡±


    Josie simply nodded in response.


    ¡°Let the driver take you. If you needpany, I cane along too-¡°


    In the midst of their conversation, Josie gently interrupted, ¡°I can manage on my own, Ms. Hadey. I¡¯m twenty-five now.¡±


    The underlying implication was that she was not a minor.


    udia swallowed all her unspeakable anguish. Her movements momentarily stiffened, and she nodded. ¡°I was overthinking it.¡±


    Upon seeing the situation, Zach forcefully set down the spoon he was holding. ¡°So you need to go to the hospital? I¡¯ll take you.¡±


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°How dare I trouble you with such a task?¡±


    It was clear as day that he definitely had ulterior motives.


    Mark was the first to object, rebuking sternly, ¡°Don¡¯t cause me any trouble. Stay put. Laura called me yesterday. She¡¯ll be back in a couple of days.¡±


    Surprisingly, whenever Laura was mentioned, Zach seemed like a startled bird, hardly resembling the domestic abuser he used to be.


    He was nothing more than a coward, ferocious in appearance, but feeble in essence.


    After reprimanding Zach, Mark¡¯s tone softened. ¡°How about this? After you¡¯re done with the review and if everything is fine, could you deliver a set of documents for me? It¡¯s on your way, and I don¡¯t trust anyone else with this.¡±


    ¡°Dad-¡°


    With a gentle raise of his hand, Mark halted the conversation, his gaze fixed on Josie, dispelling her doubts. ¡°It¡¯s nothing secretive,¡± he assured her. ¡°Just a standard contract.¡±


    After some thought, Josie agreed. Since she was already living here, helping him out would at least put his mind at ease.


    Deep down, she never truly considered this ce as her home.


    Josie had gone to the hospital alone. Her follow-up examination showed no issues. No sooner had she stepped out of the hospital than a woman wearing a hat stepped into the office. ¡°Hello, I¡¯d like to review the medical records of thedy who was just here,¡± she said.


    The doctor furrowed his brows. ¡°This pertains to the patient¡¯s privacy, I-¡°


    ¡°Myst name is Hadey.¡±


    The doctor was taken aback. It took him a while to regain hisposure. The majority stakeholder in that hospital was the Olsen family, and it seemed that udia¡¯sst name was Jiang.


    ¡°My apologies, Mrs. Olsen. I didn¡¯t recognize you.¡±


    ¡°That was my daughter just now. Can I see the records now?¡±


    As soon as Josie left the hospital, she rushed to the address given by Mark. It was a five-star hotel where the business partner was staying.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She was quite familiar with this hotel. Back when she was entangled with Dexter, they frequented this ce often.

 Chapter 1240

    After two years apart, this ce had seemingly be a famous spot for influencers to frequent.


    The location was prime, boasting an unbeatable ocean view. The restaurant on the top floor was a gathering spot for many socialites anddies enjoying their afternoon tea. Josie knew there was a spending limit there. Only the wealthy and noble could afford to go in.


    She found a ce to sit and reached out to the other party¡¯s assistant. The person responded, ¡°My boss is still sleeping at this hour. Could you please wait a bit?¡±


    Sleeping at two in the afternoon? Josie¡¯s lips curled into a smile. A figure suddenly emerged in her mind, and that was Morgan. That was something he was capable of doing.


    Having arrived, she had no choice but to wait. Josie asked the waiter for the menu, not ordering any popr dishes. ¡°A slice of raspberry cheesecake, a hot fudge sundae, and a bottle of white wine. Thank you,¡± she requested.


    The waiter immediately showed a pleasant surprise. ¡°Miss, you¡¯re quite the connoisseur.¡±


    Josie merely smiled without uttering a word. Basking in Dexter¡¯s fortune, she sampled every dish there, a nostalgic reminder of her two years in Sumanthova. She often found herself yearning for the white wine from this hotel.


    Dexter held a particr fondness for this ce. The reason was simple. Russell Group was right across from this building.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Being close brought all sorts of conveniences, in every sense of the word.


    Peering through the ss window, Josie gazed at the building across the street. Russell Group remainedrgely unchanged, as grand and majestic as it was in the past. The stream of tourists below was endless, and the bustling foreign concession, stretching for miles, was forever thriving.


    As she looked on, a sudden wave of emotion washed over her. She snapped a picture, hesitating over whether or not to send it to Dexter. She typed: Is this a trip down memoryne¡­


    After typing and deleting several words, feeling they weren¡¯t quite right, she hesitated to send the message. Just then, murmurs of conversation echoed from behind her.


    ¡°That figure¡­ From the photo, it does look like Josie¡­¡±


    A group of women gathered together, whispering gossip amongst themselves.


    ¡°Who would have thought she¡¯d actually return? Could she be targeting the Olsen family?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to say. However, Dexter has long since stepped away from the limelight. Surely, she couldn¡¯t have returned for him.¡±


    ¡°The way you¡¯re talking, it¡¯s as if she can get whatever she wants from Dexter. But let¡¯s be real. What man would willingly settle for someone who¡¯s been around? They all crave novelty. Besides, who knows how many people she¡¯s been with out there? If I were Dexter, I¡¯d find it distasteful.¡±


    The most malicious words always seemed to spill from the lips of gossipy women.


    As Josie listened, she absentmindedly toyed with her cake using her spoon, suddenly losing


    her appetite.


    Someone chuckled. ¡°Shirley, where did you get your information from? Are you spreading wild rumors?¡±


    ¡°No. Rumors are saying that Josie only returned because she couldn¡¯t make it out there,¡± said the woman with the shrill voice.


    ¡°Indeed, for her, someone like Dexter was the best she could ever hope for. Where else could she find someone better?¡±


    It seemed to them that a woman¡¯s worth was determined by the value a man ced on her.


    ¡°I even began to suspect that her dramatic interruption of Dexter¡¯s wedding years ago was driven by ulterior motives.¡±


    After the woman finished speaking, she let out a softugh.


    That was this very statement that made Josie put down her spoon. She gracefully rose from her seat, her high heels clicking against the floor as she made her way to their table. ¡°Ulterior motives, you say? I¡¯d like to hear more about that.¡±


    Before those people could even react, someone interjected, ¡°What else could it be? Of course, it¡¯s-¡°


    Before she could finish her sentence, she found herself caught in Josie¡¯s intense gaze. The profound darkness in her eyes was unsettling, making it impossible to discern her intentions.


    The atmosphere suddenly became subtly awkward. Shirley Ross¡¯ face flushed a deep red when she questioned, ¡°H-How could you eavesdrop on others¡¯ conversations?¡±


    Josie squinted her eyes. ¡°Ms. Ross, I thought. you¡¯d be pleased when the person involved personally sings your praises.¡±


    The faces of these women were so refined as if they were all crafted by the same surgeon. Yet, at that moment, theirplexions were off, fluctuating between shades of pallor and sickly green.

 Chapter 1241

    The woman in the photograph perfectly matched the attractivedy standing before them. No one had expected that Josie would actually be there and even overheard everything.


    The woman named Shirley gripped her phone tightly, immediately picked up her bag to leave, and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Without uttering a word, Josie shifted her body, blocking the path. ¡°Don¡¯t rush off. Ms. Ross, could you please tell me what ulterior motives do you believe I have?¡±


    Shirley¡¯s face was extremely distressed. She was then being publicly blocked, and as the number of onlookers increased, she raised a finger. ¡°Move aside.¡±


    Josie simply gazed at her, not stepping aside.


    She didn¡¯t intend to draw attention to herself, but she also couldn¡¯t ignore the chatter of others.


    Seeing the situation, Shirley became even more anxious. ¡°Josie, the Ross family and the Olsen family have a partnership. You wouldn¡¯t want to make things too ugly, would you?¡±


    It seemed that news traveled fast, as everyone in their social circle knew she had moved into the Olsen residence.


    Moreover, she was very intelligent, knowing how to weigh the pros and cons.


    However, Josie didn¡¯t have such a good temper. She could overlook being talked about behind her back, but not when it was done openly.


    She gave a smallugh and retorted, ¡°And what of it?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Josie leisurely moved behind her. ¡°If you¡¯re not nning to exin, I¡¯ll have to call mywyer. After all, it¡¯s not something pleasant to hear.¡±


    Incredulously, Shirley asked, ¡°You¡¯re hiring awyer over such a trivial matter? I¡¯m beginning to believe those rumors about you. With your petty and narrow-minded attitude, how are you fit to be a part of the Olsen family, let alone y the role of the so-called the youngdy of the family?¡±


    These words seemed familiar as if she had heard them somewhere before. Josie asked directly, ¡°Did Ava say that?¡±


    The women exchanged nces, surprised that Josie actually knew.


    After returning to Wavery, the only person Josie had managed to offend was Ava. She could practically predict how Ava would spin and spread rumors.


    Coincidentally, she managed to hear the rumor Ava was spreading.


    ¡°Ms. Ross, after all, Ava is Zach¡¯s ex-girlfriend. And you are? It seems we haven¡¯t met before.¡± Surveying the room, Josie exuded an overwhelming presence, silencing everyone for a moment. ¡°Next time, show some respect when speaking about people you¡¯ve never met.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡± Shirley couldn¡¯t hold back, her hand immediately raised.


    Josie was surprisingly strong when she caught Shirley¡¯s hand. Shirley, wincing in pain, gritted his teeth. ¡°Let go!¡±


    ¡°Before you think of taking action next time, consider whether you can bear the consequences.¡± Josie immediately wore a cold expression, no longer engaging in their dispute. She shrugged off her hand and returned straight to her own seat.


    Shirley stood frozen in ce, frantically trying to calm her racing heart. She red at Josie¡¯s retreating figure, feeling herself on the verge of a breakdown. If it weren¡¯t for the fact that they were in a public ce, she would have definitely continued the confrontation.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough¡­¡± everyone gently advised, all with a sense of apprehension.


    Not long after Josie had taken her seat, a waiter approached her. ¡°Miss, you may proceed now.¡±


    She understood, picked up the documents from the table, and left the restaurant.


    The sound of her high heels echoed as they hit the ground, her figure graceful and poised, exuding an air of neither arrogance nor servility.


    Narrowing her eyes, Ross dialed a number on her phone.


    The superior wasn¡¯t Morgan, but a seasoned woman in her thirties. She was still bleary-eyed from sleep as she leaned against the door, surveying Josie. As she took the documents from Josie, she let out a soft chuckle. ¡°I thought Laura¡¯s dy meant I wouldn¡¯t get the Olsen family¡¯s contract. Seems like there¡¯s a more reliable person on the job.¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    The words were dripping with sarcasm, and Josie understood them perfectly.


    After a moment of thought, she began to exin, ¡°Laura was unexpectedly held up due to some urgent matters. She repeatedly stressed that I must personally deliver the contract to you.¡±


    The other party looked up. ¡°Who are you?¡±

 Chapter 1242

    Josie¡¯s rtionship with the Olsen family was a hard thing to exin.


    ¡°I¡¯m Ms. Brandel¡¯s assistant.¡± Josie thought of apromise.


    ¡°Can an assistant afford Viktor¡¯stest haute couture?¡± The other party¡¯sment was incisive as she scanned her outfit. ¡°As far as I know, the dress you¡¯re wearing hasn¡¯t even been released to the public yet.¡±


    Josie was momentarily speechless, but she quickly regained herposure and exined, ¡°Perhaps my family is well-off?¡±


    It was clear that the other party was interested in Josie. She turned and walked inside. ¡°Come in. I¡¯m quite curious to hear how a well-off youngdy like yourself ns to convince me to sign this deal.¡±


    If Josie had known there would be such a mess, she never would have gone there.


    The other party set a ss on the table, filling it to the brim with red wine. ¡°My name is Juliette Witherspoon.¡±


    Fortunately, before she arrived, Josie had perused a few pages of the contract. Juliette Witherspoon¡¯s business empire included smart home technology and new energy vehicles, both of which were industry leaders. She was also the only woman on the maind who had achieved such sess in her career by the tender age of thirty.


    Despite her trials, she maintained her charm, attracting a multitude of admirers in her private life.


    Frankly, Josie held a deep admiration for such women. She took a seat. ¡°Hi, Ms. Witherspoon.¡±


    Juliette gestured with her hand.


    ¡°In an era where society is bing increasingly intelligent, the integration of smart home technology into our lives seems to be a universal trend. However, at present, whole- house intelligence has not yet prated the mass market. Ms. Witherspoon, you have great ambitions and must be aware that the ss of people who can afford yourpany¡¯s products is either wealthy or noble. In the entire Wavery, apart from the Olsen family, it seems that no other enterprise can provide you with this level of social circle and resources,¡± Josie said.


    As Juliette propped her chin, listening intently, a smile gradually curved her lips. Clearly, her interest was piqued.


    Josie shook her head with a smile. ¡°As far as I know, Ms. Witherspoon, you aspire to be a benchmark in the industry. The rapidly developing Wavery is your primary target. If you don¡¯t make a ssh in Wavery, what will your future path look like?¡±


    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m merely stating the facts,¡± Josie said, gently swirling the wine in her hand. ¡°To bepletely honest, I¡¯m not Laura¡¯s assistant.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°I saw iting a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°I worked in interior design, which coincidentally aligned with your industry, Ms. Witherspoon. On this point, I can assure you with my professional expertise, coborating with the Olsen family is the best choice.¡±


    Juliette¡¯s gaze had shifted to one of admiration as she looked at Josie. Leaning back, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°My surname is Warren, but you can call me Alice.¡±


    ¡°Alice, I should be upfront with you. The contract with Laura has already been settled. Even if you hadn¡¯t brought this up today, I would have signed it.¡±


    Josie was not surprised. She looked out at the clear and bright scenery, a smile gracing her lips. ¡°I know,¡± she said. ¡°I believe in Laura¡¯s abilities.¡±


    ¡°Then why did you choose to stay?¡±


    ¡°Befriending someone isn¡¯t really a loss, after all.¡±


    The two women shared an unspoken understanding. Momentster, they both broke into knowing smiles and clinked their sses together.


    As Juliette signed her name, Josie finally stood up to leave. The former remained seated, suddenly saying, ¡°I just arrived in Wavery today, and I¡¯m not familiar with this ce. If you have time, could you possibly show me around?¡±


    Josie paused momentarily, then quickly strode out, replying over her shoulder, ¡°Depends on my mood!¡±


    Juliette watched her retreating figure and chuckled to herself. This youngdy certainly has a unique personality.


    This serendipitous encounter had brought Josie a considerable amount of joy. However, it wasn¡¯t long before this pleasant mood had faded away.


    ¡°Halt!¡±


    Suddenly, a voice rang out, halting Josie, who was about to step into the elevator.


    She slowly turned around, and to her surprise, she saw Zach standing behind her. Behind him, there was a crowd of stylishly dressed men and women, who were clearly his disreputable friends.

 Chapter 1243

    They all gazed at Josie with intrigue. Not long ago, Shirley, who had just been chastised, stood amidst the crowd. Josie let out a breath and asked, ¡°What is this?¡±


    Zach¡¯s face was devoid of any emotion. He casually picked up a bottle of wine from the table and headed straight toward Josie.


    The surrounding staff didn¡¯t dare to intervene. This wasn¡¯t the first time the wealthy heir had caused a scene. Their usual solution was to call the police, but it was futile. The rich heirs had the means to smooth over any situation with their wealth.


    If one ended up hurting themselves, then it simply wouldn¡¯t be worth it. Tension knotted Josie¡¯s back as she uttered when the man approached her, ¡°Zach, have you lost your mind?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too much.¡± Zach slightly leaned forward, his gaze mocking as he stared at Josie. He lightly tapped the bottle of wine in his hand. ¡°Upon returning, you blocked the road, delivered documents to Dad, and even lectured my people. You really think highly of yourself, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Those people, likely all on a par with Zach, were waiting to see a spectacle.


    Josie¡¯s fingers tightened into a fist. She nced at the surveince camera overhead and asked, ¡°What are you nning to do to me?¡±


    Clearly, she was at a disadvantage, so it wasn¡¯t wise for her to confront the situation head-on.


    ¡°I¡¯m giving you three days. I don¡¯t care how you exin it to Dad, but one thing is certain: you need to leave Wavery, just like you did two years ago.¡±


    Zach had never despised Josie as much as he did at that moment. It didn¡¯t matter who she had been before. He had always treated her like a joke. Evidently, he didn¡¯t care if she had be Dexter¡¯s wife.


    But then, things were different. Her identity was known to all, and it had begun to affect his interests.


    Josie raised an eyebrow. ¡°What if I don¡¯t?¡±


    Originally, she had nned to leave Wavery as soon as possible. However, when Zach said this, she suddenly felt a rebellious streak.


    ¡°Then you would be just like this bottle!¡±


    No sooner had the words left his mouth than Zach abruptly hurled away the bottle in his hand. It smashed against the wall less than a meter behind Josie, the sound echoing loudly. The crimson liquid sttered onto her, looking eerily like blood.


    Someone let out a soft gasp.


    Yet Josie remained unmoved. She had weathered far greater storms than this. There was no reason for her to be frightened.


    Unnoticed by all, the elevator behind her gradually ascended, and someone was on their way to this floor.


    Josie remained as still as a mountain, her aura radiating a profound steadiness. She asked, ¡°Zach, why do you still act like a child?¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Zach sneered, practically itching to grab her by the hair and p her.


    ¡°I said, ¡®You, and the group of people behind you, are like overgrown infants who believe that money can solve everything. But in reality, it¡¯s you who are weak and incapable. You are the ones who bully the weak and fear the strong. After all these years, you haven¡¯t grown or improved at all, treating the things I discarded as if they were treasures.¡±


    The more she said, the more absurd she found it all. She took deliberate steps toward Zach, jabbing a finger into his chest. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m Laura, to be manipted like a pushover? You¡¯re mistaken. I¡¯m older and therefore more superior than you, for now and forever!¡±


    Each word, each sentence, struck a chord deep within Zach¡¯s heart.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    He was forced to retreat step by step. He stuttered several times but couldn¡¯t manage to articte a coherent sentence.


    As the elevator doors slid open, Zach was perfectly positioned to see the neer. For a moment, his eyes widened in surprise.


    Meanwhile, Josie found herself stained with red wine, at that moment resembling a female warrior.


    She slowly curved her lips into a smile. ¡°Initially, I had no interest in the Olsen family, but your reaction has piqued my curiosity.


    The words fell on deaf ears and met with an eerie silence. No one responded.


    Right at the moment, Juliette came. ¡°Alice, what¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked.

 Chapter 1244

    Josie nced down at herself. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Just a kid causing trouble. I have to discipline him a bit.¡±


    Juliette looked at Zach and the others, roughly understanding the situation. She sternlymanded the staff, ¡°What are you standing around for? Call the police now!¡±


    Just as Josie was about to speak, a voice suddenly echoed from behind. ¡°Apologies. Allow me to handle this matter.¡±


    She paused, turning around to find herself unexpectedly facing Laura. She was dressed in a practical manner, appearing travel-worn.


    Upon seeing her, Josie immediately understood why Zach had such a peculiar expression on his face. She paused for a moment. ¡°Hey, Laura.¡±


    Laura nodded at her, then turned to Juliette and exined, ¡°It¡¯s a family matter of the Olsen family. I apologize for any inconvenience, Ms. Witherspoon. Rest assured, I will handle this matter appropriately.¡±


    ¡°Household affairs?¡± Juliette asked, casting a puzzled yet somewhat understanding nce at Josie.


    ¡°Yes. I rushed over today specifically to apologize to you for the dy in our coboration. This is a carefully chosen gift as a token of my apology. Please ept it.¡± Laura came prepared, carrying a gift in her hand, which she respectfully presented with both hands.


    Josie understood the situation. She made a special trip toe here today.


    Juliette didn¡¯t ept it, her enthusiasm somewhat faded. ¡°That matter is already in the past,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯ve signed the contract. It seems like your internalmunication isn¡¯t very good.¡±


    Her words carried an eerie undertone, her gaze lingering on Josie and Laura for a few moments. The former quietly exined, ¡°Mark asked me to deliver the contract. It¡¯s all taken care of now.¡±


    A myriad of emotions yed across Laura¡¯s face, momentarily beyond her control.


    Juliette took everything in, then found an excuse to leave.


    For a moment, silence filled the grand hall. Zach, hands tucked in his pockets, stepped forward, his tone brusque. ¡°When did you get back?¡±


    As he spoke those words, Shirley couldn¡¯t help but step forward, attempting to grasp Zach¡¯s arm. However, with an impassive expression, Zach shrugged her off.


    With a stern expression, Laura retorted, ¡°Since when do I have to report to you about myings and goings?¡±


    She turned around and pressed the elevator button.


    With a firm grip, Zach seized her arm, his teeth gritted in anger. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare act high and mighty with me! We¡¯re far from done discussing your actions back in Rivodia!¡±


    Laura was no longer afraid of him at all. She nced at the mess on the ground. ¡°Do I need to tell your father about today¡¯s events?¡±


    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    ¡°I was merely reminding you to always know your ce. It seems like when the cat¡¯s away, the mice will y.¡±


    Laura spoke with her usual sharp tongue. Josie, listening from the side, couldn¡¯t help but feel that her words carried a hint of sarcasm directed at herself.


    However, the next moment, the elevator arrived. Laura took Josie¡¯s hand directly and stepped in, leaving that ce behind.


    As Laura gently dabbed away the spilled wine with a tissue, she said, ¡°Zach is just that kind of person. He¡¯s outwardly strong, but inwardly weak. You don¡¯t need to be afraid of him.¡±


    After some thought, Josie exined, ¡°I initially didn¡¯t want to take on this task, the reason being-¡°


    ¡°I know,¡± Laura interrupted with a smile. ¡°You are the cherished daughter of Mark and udia. Resources naturally find their way to you. Look at you, you¡¯re doing wonderfully.¡±


    Josie frowned, wanting to exin further, but Laura interrupted her. She clenched the tissue in her hand and tossed it into the trash can. ¡°I should be thanking you. Without your help, my coboration with Juliette could have easily fallen through.¡±


    Josie pressed his lips together, deciding it was best to say nothing more.


    ¡°You¡¯ve only seen her once, but she seemed quite fond of you.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°Perhaps it was because we hit it off in our conversation.¡±


    Upon leaving the hotel, they saw that Laura¡¯s car was parked outside. She opened the car door and said, ¡°Yes. You¡¯ve always had this knack.¡±


    For reasons unknown, when Josie met with Laura this time, thetter¡¯s aggressive nature was unusually intense.

 Chapter 1245

    Even Josie, usually so oblivious, could feel it. Josie cast a lingering nce at Laura. It was at that moment that she suddenly noticed across the street a farmiliar car parked. The window was halfway down, revealing a man¡¯s enigmatic face. He looked exceptionally cold. That¡¯s Dexter! When did hee back?


    Josie¡¯s heart raced in an instant.


    When Dexter came into contact with the stain on her clothes, he squinted his eyes. But within a few seconds, a cute and delicate girl emerged from his arms. She leaned against the car window, waving at Josie.


    Grape! They¡¯re both here! Josie was surprised.


    Perhaps due to being taught not to raise her voice, Grape only blinked at her, making faces to express her excitement upon seeing her mother.


    Josie was lost in thought. Laura, who had already taken her seat, asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t youing in?¡±


    Only then did shepose her expression and take a seat. Dexter didn¡¯t approach her directly. It seemed he didn¡¯t want outsiders to know. So, she decided to y along and act oblivious.


    Immediately, she pulled out her phone, only to be shocked to discover that she had unwittingly sent out that photo a few hours ago. Dexter had responded in an instant.


    He responded with a question mark.


    After that, he added: On the highway back to Wavery.


    She hadn¡¯t responded for a long time, so he sent another question mark.


    There was still no response.


    He texted: Is it inconvenient for you to reply?


    He then texted again: I¡¯m going straight to the hotel to find you.


    Based on the time of thest message sent, Josie figured they had just arrived at the hotel. They saw us leaving as they pulled up, so they didn¡¯t bother going upstairs.


    Unconsciously, Josie lowered her gaze, turning off her phone. Looking through the rearview mirror, he saw Dexter¡¯s car had already started, driving off in the opposite direction.


    ¡°Josie?¡± Laura¡¯s voice held a hint of impatience as she nudged her.


    Only then did Josie snap back to reality. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Laura let out a soft sigh, holding back her impatience. ¡°I said that I was hoping you¡¯d keep today¡¯s incident involving Zach a secret from the Olsen family.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know what I¡¯m doing.¡± Josie understood. Given Mark¡¯s regard for her at this moment, she knew Mark would most probably punish Zach if he were to find out. It was highly likely that Laura would also be punished.


    ¡°However, his reckless lifestyle is not the best choice.¡±


    The underlying message in her words was advice given out of goodwill. However, when it reached Laura¡¯s ears, it took on a different tone. Without thinking, she blurted out, ¡°Josie, are you afraid that I will fight you for the Olsen family¡¯s wealth?¡±


    Time and again, she had tried to persuade her to get a divorce.


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. How could you think that?¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression gradually softened. She yfully said, ¡°Just a joke. Calm down.¡±


    ¡°Do you also believe, like them, that I returned to Wavery to fight for the Olsen family¡¯s inheritance?¡± Josie asked.


    Laura gazed ahead, lost in her thoughts. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant,¡± she said. ¡°I just wanted to say that not everyone is as fortunate as you.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Josie found Laura to be quite peculiar. The people I care about are all in imminent danger, constantly under watchful, threatening eyes. I haven¡¯t even found stability yet, so where is this so-called good fortune supposed toe from?


    By the time they returned to the Olsen residence, it was already evening. As the sunset painted the sky, Mark sat in the courtyard, sipping his tea.


    As soon as Laura entered the room, she washed her hands and sat next to him to pour tea. She then began to meticulously report on theplex details of her work.


    Using the excuse of needing to use the restroom, Josie momentarily excused himself.


    As soon as the door closed behind her, she immediately dialed Dexter¡¯s number.


    ¡°Hey, Jo.¡± The man¡¯s voice was deep and gentle.


    ¡°Why did you bring Grape back? My dad-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯ve also brought him back because Wavery offers superior medical facilities. I have connections both high and low here, making it convenient for him to receive care.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°What about Rivodia-¡°

 Chapter 1246

    ¡°It could be set aside.¡±


    At this point in the conversation, Josie was left speechless. Even for her, Wavery, with its friends and colleagues, not to mention the familiar sense of belonging, was indeed a better ce.


    Yet, she was unwilling to admit it.


    Dexter didn¡¯t wait for her response. Hearing her slightly hurried breath on the other end, he said, ¡°All reasons lead back to you being here.¡±


    He also knew that Wavery was the perfect ce for her, which was why he returned.


    Holding her phone, her palm began to sweat. Josie gave a soft scoff, and without thinking, she said, ¡°You¡¯re too opinionated.¡±


    After Dexter heard that, he let it pass, asking. ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything you want to say to me?¡±


    As they chatted, it urred to Josie that she had to inform him about the situation in Wavery. She briefly described the Olsen family¡¯s attitude toward her and the prejudices she faced within their social circle. ¡°As for the police, it seems they n to keep the matter about Arnold under wraps. You should be aware of this, so I won¡¯t borate further.¡±


    Dexter paused thoughtfully, then suddenly asked, ¡°Has Laura returned?¡±


    ¡°Yes. A few hours ago. The itinerary should have been synchronized with yours.¡±


    He seemed lost in thought, not speaking for a moment. Josie asked, ¡°When can I see Grape?¡±


    ¡°Anytime. Does Mark know about the child¡¯s existence?¡±


    Josie paused, her tone somewhat icy. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I be the one asking you? You took it upon yourself to reveal my itinerary. I thought you had already revealed it.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t naive. She naturally understood that Dexter was involved in this series of ns.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He didn¡¯t deny it. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I had no other choice at the time.¡±


    He was indeed very intelligent. If it hadn¡¯t been for Mark¡¯s intervention, there was a high chance that he would have died. Therefore, Josie couldn¡¯t bring herself to hate him.


    She let out a sigh. ¡°I didn¡¯t mention anything about Grape.¡±


    ¡°Me neither.¡±


    That was for the best. Josie had no intention of letting them know. However, this meant she couldn¡¯t see Grape whenever she wished. It would be somewhat troublesome. ¡°Please, take good care of Grape for me. As soon as I leave the Olsen residence, I¡¯lle to see her.¡±


    At that moment, Grape was in Dexter¡¯s hands, and she was finally at ease.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it won¡¯t work. You¡¯d better stay with the Olsen family.¡±


    Josie furrowed her brows. ¡°Why?¡±


    She had expected him to cite reasons rted to personal gain, but instead, he said, ¡°Don¡¯t you find it odd? When you were in Rivodia, Laura was there too. However long you stayed, she stayed just as long. Now that you¡¯re back, she¡¯s followed suit. Leaving aside whether these are mere coincidences, consider this. Every time you¡¯ve faced danger, she¡¯s been present. Does that seem logical to you?¡±


    Josie opened her mouth, instinctively wanting to exin. But as she thought about it, something seemed off. Two years had passed, and her understanding of Laura was no longer what it used to be. Earlier in the car, she seemed a bit off, too.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not wise to jump to conclusions without evidence, but my suggestion is that even if it¡¯s for these inconsistencies, you should stay.¡±


    Josie¡¯s steps became hesitant after she ended the call.


    In the courtyard, Laura, who apanied Mark, seemed like a perfect daughter. As she reported on her work, Mark would often nod in affirmation. The atmosphere was harmonious, filled with a profound sense of trust.


    ¡°Leanne?¡± Mark¡¯s gaze caught sight of Josie, immediately interrupting Laura. He waved his hand. ¡°Come over here.¡±


    ¡°Laura, I had Leanne deliver a contract for coboration with Juliette today. Have you received any feedback? She did a good job, didn¡¯t she?¡±


    With a warm and respectful smile, Mark spoke, his excitement palpable. It was a tant disy of his pride.


    Laura¡¯s natural smile froze momentarily. She nced at Josie, then lowered her head to continue pouring tea. ¡°Of course, there¡¯s no doubt about Leanne¡¯s abilities,¡± she said.


    ¡°How about this? Let her join thepany for some hands-on experience. What do you think?¡±

 Chapter 1247

    As soon as these words were spoken, not only did Laura¡¯s face change, but Josie also frowned in response.


    Josie was just about to say she wasn¡¯t interested in that, but she didn¡¯t voice them. Suddenly, she found herself curious about Laura¡¯s reaction.


    Laura¡¯s face shed with embarrassment for a moment. She turned to look at Josie, her expression softening. ¡°Of course, that would be wonderful. The Olsen family needs a backbone, and I believe Leanne has the potential.¡±


    After she finished speaking, she said, ¡°Leanne, whenever you want toe in, I¡¯ll arrange it.¡±


    As the conversation reached this point, Josie locked eyes with her, managing a forced smile. ¡°I¡¯m not familiar with the Olsen family¡¯s business,¡± she admitted. ¡°For now, I think it¡¯s best if you take the lead.¡±


    Although she had gently declined, what caught Laura¡¯s attention was the fact that Josie hinted at an intervention in the future.


    Upon hearing this, Mark was displeased. ¡°Leanne, in my opinion, we should get started as soon as possible. Laura has been managing this for two years and has gained a lot of experience. She is more than capable of guiding you.¡±


    As Laura poured the tea, her movements never faltered, seemingly unfazed by anything.


    ¡°Indeed, I did have that bit of skill.¡±


    Josie¡¯s brows smoothed, and she felt that Dexter might be worrying over nothing. Laura clearly has no ambitious intentions, and even if she did, it would be perfectly normal. After all, she has been managing the Olsen family¡¯s business for two years, and anyone would be displeased if they were to hand over their responsibilities upon my return.


    With that in mind, Josie said, ¡°At the moment, all I want is to delve deeper into my professional field. Everything else just isn¡¯t right for me.¡±


    Mark wanted to say more, but Josie cut him off by saying, ¡°Enough. I¡¯m just staying at the Olsen Residence temporarily.¡±


    The conversation abruptly ended, and Mark¡¯s dreams were shattered. He cleared his throat, choosing not to continue speaking.


    Before long, Zach returned, his presence marked by a mingling scent of perfume and alcohol.


    As they took their seats, it was udia who noticed first. ¡°Leanne, where did these stains on your clothese from?¡±


    Josie had forgotten about that.


    With great interest, Josie cast a nce at Zach. Seeing his unpleasant expression, she found it quite amusing. ¡°I identally touched something filthy.¡±


    Zach stared at her intently when he heard that.


    udia paid no mind to their expressions or movements. ¡°Go change quickly. You can¡¯t go around dressed like that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be more careful next time, but I fear that trouble has a way of finding me.¡±


    Zach was about to rise immediately, but Laura caught hold of him in an instant.


    When Josie returned after tidying herself up, the others were still waiting for her to join them for dinner. During the meal, Laura picked up a piece of fish and ced it on Josie¡¯s te. ¡°I heard you¡¯ve made quite a name for yourself abroad. There happens to be a designer¡¯s cocktail party in Wavery tomorrow, attended by all the industry leaders. Would you like to go?¡± Laura asked.


    ¡°A designer¡¯s cocktail party?¡± When Josie was abroad, she seldom attended such events. She prided herself on her aloofness, disliking social engagements.


    ¡°Yes. Now that you¡¯ve returned to Wavery, you can¡¯t just keep a low profile. Go out and meet some people. It will be beneficial for your future.¡± With a smile, Laura finished her words, then turned to Mark, saying, ¡°I¡¯m right, aren¡¯t I, Dad?¡±


    Mark thoughtfully nodded. ¡°It¡¯s good to get to know people, Leanne. Go ahead. With your talent, you shouldn¡¯t be over-cautious.¡±


    Josie idly stirred the food on her te. ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m over-cautious. I just don¡¯t enjoy those kinds of settings.¡±


    ¡°Insincere,¡± Zach muttered under his breath.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    udia immediately set down her cutlery, letting out a soft sigh.


    Upon receiving the warning, Zach muttered under his breath, ¡°That¡¯s just how it is.¡±


    Lauraughed. ¡°I know, but I heard that Vivian is also attending tomorrow. Are you really not going?¡±


    ¡°Vivian?¡± Josie was taken aback. She was indeed a renowned designer, both domestically and internationally. They had met a few times and had instantly hit it off. ¡°Isn¡¯t she traveling abroad?¡±


    ¡°Exclusive news. It¡¯s certain that she will arrive in Wavery tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 1248

    Hearing that, Josie felt a bit swayed. ¡°We can go.¡±


    Laura nodded. ¡°Then I¡¯ll take care of the arrangements.¡±


    udia spoke softly, yet her words carried a palpable weight. She added, ¡°Keep a close eye on Leanne when you¡¯re out and about. The current situation in Wavery isn¡¯t exactly favorable toward her.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Mom.¡±


    udia gently patted Josie¡¯s hand resting on herp, soothing her by saying, ¡°Don¡¯t be too nervous. I believe in your ability to handle this.¡±


    Josie neither agreed nor disagreed, for she felt as though she was living in a grand gilded cage. She was cared for and looked after, but she herself was not a canary.


    Zach was not entirely satisfied with this conclusion. He muttered under his breath, ¡°I wonder what you¡¯re thinking.¡±


    Laura shot him a re, showing no fear.


    Mark took notice, tapping the rim of his bowl with his fork. ¡°You two have been through so much together. It would be wonderful if you could make it work, but if you find it too hard to get along, there¡¯s no need to force it. Considering an early divorce might not be a bad idea.¡±


    In his words, there was no hint of hesitation. His confidence was palpable.


    Zach¡¯s face alternated between shades of green and white, a clear sign of his difort. Laura also felt a bit awkward. She managed to squeeze out a smile and said, ¡°It¡¯s just a minor squabble, no big deal. Zach and I have a solid emotional foundation.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good, then.¡±


    That night, Dexter sent Josie a message that read: Grape really misses you. Could we possibly meet on the outskirts of the Olsen Residence?


    As a mother, Josie obviously missed her child. Without hesitation, she replied: Okay. I¡¯ll be there in ten minutes.


    Originally, Josie was afraid of being seen by the servants. However, as soon as she left, she saw the Olsen family¡¯s housekeeper, who was also Dexter¡¯s informant.


    Respectfully, she said, ¡°Mr. Russell has given his instructions. Please follow me.¡±


    Following her, they finally found a safe ce to meet.


    Upon arrival, the streetlights cast a dim glow on a sleek ck Porsche, bathing it in a quiet serenity


    The car door swung open, and a clear, youthful voice rang out. ¡°Mommy!¡±


    Josie was in high spirits. She saw Grape sprawled out in the back seat, surrounded by toys. Overwhelmed with excitement, she threw herself into her arms, pouring out words of longing she had been holding back.


    Josie held her tightly. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you, too. What interesting things have you been up to while I was away?¡±


    From the corners of Josie¡¯s eyes, she saw the man rise from the driver¡¯s seat and depart, giving them privacy.


    Grape thought back carefully and said, ¡°Uncle Justin took me to the amusement park, and we even yed hide and seek. But they were so silly, it took them forever to find me. Oh, and Mommy, I found a little puppy. It¡¯s so cute!¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°A puppy?¡± Josieughed. ¡°Have you named it yet?¡±


    ¡°Daddy said I should wait for you, Mommy.¡±


    ¡°Did you bring it over?¡±


    ¡°Yes. It¡¯s at the ce where we live. Mommy,e with me next time to see it, okay?¡± Grape asked.¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡± Josie smoothed her hair, her eyes filled with tenderness. ¡°I might be very busy for a while and won¡¯t be able to see you as often as we¡¯d like. When you¡¯re with Daddy, remember to behave and don¡¯t cause any trouble.¡±


    Grape nodded her head fervently. Those moments of insecurity had long since vanished. ¡°Daddy has already told me all that.¡±


    Josie looked up to see Dexter leaning against the car, smoking a cigarette, his brows furrowed in a lonely and cold expression.


    She thought his presence gave Grape a lot of confidence.


    ¡°What did he say?¡± Josie asked.


    Grape nestled in her arms, deep in thought. ¡°Daddy said you¡¯ve been working hard. I shouldn¡¯t cause you any trouble. I shouldfort you, understand you, and, most importantly, love you dearly.¡±


    Josie curved her lips, unable to deny the warm current that swept through her heart.


    She pinched Grape¡¯s rosy cheeks and asked, ¡°Did he really say something like that?¡±

 Chapter 1249

    Grape nodded emphatically, then suddenly whispered, ¡°Mommy, Daddy really loves you.¡±


    Josie was taken aback. ¡°Do you know what love is?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I know he¡¯s deeply in love with you.¡±


    The child¡¯s words were disjointed, spilling out without rhyme or reason. Josie didn¡¯t pay it any mind.


    Out of the blue, Grape asked, ¡°Mommy, can you love Daddy?¡±


    Josie paused once again, instinctively ncing at the figure outside. Love him?


    ¡°Why?¡± Josie asked.


    ¡°I want the two of you to be together, just like before in the big house, both of you loving me together.


    Before, Josie never thought much about being from a single-parent family. It wasn¡¯t until then that she realized the profound warmth aplete family could bring to a child¡¯s upbringing.


    For a moment, she found it incredibly difficult to respond.


    It was gettingte. Grape mentioned she was exhausted, and before she knew it, she had drifted off to sleep. Josie carefully covered her with a small nket before she quietly opened the car door and left.


    When Dexter saw her, his fingers loosened, dropping the half-smoked cigarette to the ground, where it was snuffed out. ¡°How are you feeling?¡±


    Josie stood by his side, momentarily at a loss for words. ¡°Not bad. You¡¯ve been taking care of her. You must be exhausted from these past few days.¡±


    Dexter managed to maintain hisposure, no longer as emotionally expressive as he was when he was at sea.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°You¡¯ve raised her well, so it wasn¡¯t a hardship. The focus is on official matters.¡±


    Josie seemed to half-understand the words. The lingering scent of smoke was still present in the air. She cleared her throat lightly and said, ¡°Grape mentioned she found a puppy?¡±


    Dexter chuckled softly. ¡°It¡¯s not a dog. It¡¯s a wolf pup.¡±


    ¡°A wolf?¡± She was taken aback.


    ¡°A timid wolf. It doesn¡¯t cause harm to anyone. For now, it only listens to Grape.¡±


    Josie seemed to half-understand those words. She strived to find a topic, so she told him about Laura¡¯s reaction. ¡°I don¡¯t think Laura is that kind of person.¡±


    The glow from the streetlight fell upon her porcin-white earlobe. Dexter felt the urge to smoke again, but he held back. ¡°Were you really that close to her? Then why didn¡¯t you tell her where you were during the two years you were gone?¡±


    Josie was choked up.


    Indeed, they hadn¡¯t reached the point of truly understanding each other. ¡°I refrained from telling her due to considering many factors,¡± Josie exined.


    Dexter lowered his gaze, meeting her eyes. ¡°For


    instance?¡±


    Josie was taken aback, falling deeply into his soft, pitiful gaze. For instance? For instance, you.


    She looked at him, for the first time not averting her gaze, ¡°Arnold said that on the night I left, you also wanted to leave.¡±


    She was talking about him leaving the world behind.


    When this question was raised, Dexter unexpectedly avoided her gaze. Josie swiftly grabbed his wrist. ¡°Look at me when you speak.¡±


    ¡°He was talking nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Was he just spouting nonsense? Show me the medical reports from back then, and we¡¯ll know the truth.¡±


    Dexter furrowed his brows. At that moment, she seemed like a stubborn little creature, unable to break free.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he blurted out. ¡°Without you by my side, I don¡¯t know how I could go on living.¡±


    With such raw honesty, Josie was once again taken aback. She shook her head. ¡°You are the CEO of Russell Group, the decision-maker of the Russell family. Your life shouldn¡¯t be bound by me. You wouldn¡¯t have allowed it in the past.¡±


    The impression he gave her was one of perpetual rationality and calm, always weighing the pros and cons. Josie found it hard to believe she held such a significant weight in his life. How could he possibly act so impulsively?


    ¡°These titles, they only hold meaning when you¡¯re by my side.¡± Dexter reached out, taking her hand in his. ¡°I used to think that no one was worth giving up everything for. But then you came into my life, your significance, so profound that even I can¡¯t fullyprehend. But that night, I found the answer.¡±


    ¡°What was the answer?¡±


    ¡°You mean more to me than my own life,¡± he replied.


    Josie trembled when she heard that.

 Chapter 1250

    Josie¡¯s first instinct was to pull her hand back, while Dexter¡¯s immediate reaction was to tighten his grip on her hand. They both remained in a standoff, rooted to the spot.


    A momentter, Dexter was the first to regain hisposure. He slowly dropped her hand. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to scare you.¡±


    The familiar pang of forlornness and pity returned. Josie lowered her gaze, instinctively wanting to flee. ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving.¡±


    She feared that if she lingered any longer, she wouldn¡¯t be able to contain her overwhelming sympathy.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    But before she had walked far, a thought struck her. She turned around and asked, ¡°Where are you staying with Grape now?¡±


    Dexter stood under the streetlight. ¡°At Russell Mansion, so there¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


    Josie nodded and made her way back to the house with the housekeeper.


    How foolish I was to think that he would return to Mason Garden. That ce is likely somewhere no one would ever wish to step foot in.


    It was only after she had arrived at her room and looked out through the window that she realized she had a clear view of Dexter¡¯s car from there. He hadn¡¯t left but was still standing in the same spot, gazing in the direction of the Olsen Residence.


    Moses walked out from the side and murmured something to him.


    Dexter gave a nod of acknowledgment before he finally got into the car and left.


    Josie slid down to the floor, still unable to imagine the loneliness he suffered in the two years she was away from Wavery.


    The next day, Laura had a custom-made evening dress delivered specially for her. ¡°No matter what, your identity is there for all to see. It¡¯s only appropriate that you dress ordingly.¡±


    It was a white gown, perfectly tailored to tter the wearer¡¯s figure, making the designer¡¯s capabilities apparent.


    Josie recognized the brand. Back when Rachel was still around, the Olsen family threw her a birthday party, during which they wore the same outfits from that brand.


    At that moment, both udia and Mark were also there. Thetter didn¡¯t realize anything amiss.


    ¡°White is nice. It suits you and is also your favorite color,¡± Markmented. It seemed like he knew Josie well, but thetter wasn¡¯t as happy as supposed.


    ¡°I stopped liking to wear white a long time ago.¡±


    udia¡¯s eyes dimmed, but she was quick to diffuse the situation. ¡°It¡¯s okay. There are plenty of other clothes in the wardrobe. Changing into a different one won¡¯t make any difference.¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression dulled as well. However, Josie took the gown from her. ¡°Anyway, it looks great. Thank you, Laura.¡±


    Laura shot her a grateful look. ¡°Go and change then.¡±


    While the Olsen family appeared calm on the surface, it was actually filled with signs of an impending storm.


    When Josie came out after changing, she suddenly heard voices around the corner.


    It was Zach¡¯s voice. ¡°Have you lost your mind? Aren¡¯t things chaotic enough already that you even want to parade Josie around in public now? Do you really believe your status is so high that no one can threaten it?¡±


    Laura was at the end of her patience. ¡°You may be wary of her, but I¡¯m not. She¡¯s my best friend. Am I supposed to be on guard against her? Zach, don¡¯t forget that she¡¯s your biological sister.¡±


    Zach went silent. A whileter, he sneered, ¡°Well then, I wish you luck that you won¡¯t be a stepping stone to your so-called best friend.¡±


    ¡°You needn¡¯t worry yourself about me.¡±


    Overhearing every word, Josie leaned back against the wall.


    Have I really been overthinking? Laura clearly has no ulterior motives toward me. Yet, I second- guessed her with Dexter. If she were to learn about it, she would likely be sad.


    Undeniably, Josie looked stunning in white. Her skin was as white as snow, smooth and exquisite. Not an ounce of excess fat could be found on her, the gown fitting her perfectly and giving her a graceful demeanor when she moved.


    Mark watched the two women left hand in hand. He sighed helplessly. ¡°If only Leanne grew up by our side from young.¡±


    In that case, she would certainly be an exceedingly obedient and clingy daughter and not so much a stranger.


    udia shook her head. ¡°We owe her. By the way, Dexter should have arrived by now, right?¡±


    Snapping back to reality, Mark affirmed, ¡°It¡¯s about the time scheduled, so he should be here by now.¡±

 Chapter 1251

    The cocktail party was held on the top floor of the same hotelst time. Most people in the industry had a touch of an artist about them, casual and free without too many rules.


    It was Josie¡¯s first time attending the event. Laura kept herpany by her side, long since well-versed in navigating such a social setting, effortlessly mingling with a drink in her hand. Alice¡¯s name was renowned, so the mere mention of it drew a crowd over, striking up a conversation and getting acquainted.


    Most of the time, Josie acknowledged others with a smile, only engaging in conversation when she encountered someone she could get along with.


    There were indeed a few individuals who were quite famous, whom Josie also heard about while abroad. However, the majority were unfamiliar to her.


    ¡°Any family with some money sends their children abroad to study from a young age. This field is the easiest to make a name for oneself, so many involve themselves in the industry to secure better marriage prospects and have a credible title to their name,¡± Laura exined.


    At that, understanding dawned up upon Josie.


    She didn¡¯t pay attention to all that, only concerned about why Vivian hadn¡¯t shown up yet.


    During the event, Laura went to the restroom. Feeling somewhat disinterested, Josie wandered toward the rooftop, lost in thought.


    She didn¡¯t notice the group of women posing for a photo at the back, but as they watched her walk by, her distinct aura took them by surprise. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen her before. Who is she?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t her either.¡±


    Just then, Shirley, who was toasting inside, spotted Josie with her sharp eyes. She let out a snort ofughter and walked out right away. ¡°I remember this gown was ordered by Laura three months ago. Why is it on you now?¡±


    Sensing several gazesnding on her, Josie finally realized they were talking about her. Turning around to the sight of Shirley, a headache assailed her. ¡°You even want to control what others wear?¡±


    Why do I keep running into her everywhere? Don¡¯t tell me she¡¯s also one of those who went abroad for the prestige of it?


    ¡°I simply can¡¯t stand seeing some opportunist swooping in and snatching others¡¯ resources as soon as she returned. How abhorrent of you.¡±


    Shirley¡¯s attack was intense, leading to the onlookers subconsciously viewing Josie as an evil woman.


    Josie didn¡¯t want to engage with them, so she bypassed them directly to leave. However, Shirley pushed her back. ¡°So, I hit a nerve? Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°What else do you want to say?¡±


    ¡°If I were in your shoes, I would definitely take this gown off and return it to its rightful owner. Everyone knows that Laura has been working her heart out these past few years. You just returned, and you want to reap the harvest? What gives?¡± Shirley was relentless.


    Those who were informed knew that she was speaking of a mere piece of clothing, but those who didn¡¯t know better might mistake it for Josie having stolen someone¡¯s parents.


    Josie nced around, observing that the onlookers were all heavily made-up socialites who were curiously peering in her direction.


    She chuckled in anger. ¡°Ms. Ross, let¡¯s not worry about my attire for now. This event today is a cocktail party for designers. May I know your renowned name is in the industry? Why have I never heard of you?¡±


    In other words, she was skeptical about Shirley¡¯s reason for being there.


    ¡°Do you even deserve to know my name? I¡¯m simply standing up for Laura, speaking up against injustice.¡±


    Josie nodded. Well, she¡¯s sounds pretty righteous.


    At that point, Laura had already returned, but she seemed unable to make her way over through the crowd. She could only stand rooted to the spot, watching anxiously. Josie shot her a reassuring look.


    ¡°Before you speak up against injustice, shouldn¡¯t you at least tell me your name?¡± Josie¡¯s voice was calm, neither arrogant nor servile.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    ¡°I-I came here by invitation and am not a designer!¡±


    ¡°Oh, are you also some opportunist, then? Can I call security to escort you out?¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare!¡±


    Josie jerked her head up, her swan-like neck rendering her graceful. Her gaze fell on the entrance. She was about to call security when she was abruptly stopped by Shirley. ¡°You asked for my name, so I¡¯m curious to know yours as well. It seems such an event setting might also be above your station, no?¡±


    She knew Josie was a designer, but her name never appeared in the past few years, so she reckoned there was no way she could be famous.

 Chapter 1252

    Before Josie had a chance to respond, Shirley smirked. ¡°Could it be that you got in through some other connections?¡±


    She was quite adept at turning the tables.


    In an instant, all eyes turned to Josie. A few who knew her wanted to step forward and defend her, but they were surrounded by the crowd, unable to make their way out.


    The night wind rustled. Josie¡¯splexion was fair, so she was particrly conspicuous and elegant as she stood amidst the crowd in a gown.


    She chuckled softly, mockery showing on her face. ¡°At such an event, only you would rely on connections to get in. In all my years, Ms. Ross, this is the first time I¡¯ve encountered a mistress standing up for the wife. You¡¯ve certainly broadened my horizons.¡±


    Shirley tensed all over, never having expected Josie to put that out in the open. She stomped her foot. ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡±


    Josie nced in Laura¡¯s direction. ¡°You know, I¡¯m probably closer to Laura than you are. As the other woman, don¡¯t you find it repulsive to stand up for her before me?¡±


    Her voice was deep and authoritative, causing a moment of silence to fall over the crowd. Shirley¡¯s arms trembled. ¡°What right do you have tobel me as the other woman?¡±


    Indeed, Josie had no proof, but she could tell from the woman¡¯s interaction with Zach. She looked around and asked the crowd, ¡°Isn¡¯t that the truth?¡±


    The crowd¡¯s silence served as the most genuine answer, forming a closed loop of unspoken truth.


    It seemed that the matter was a deeply taboo subject in Wavery.


    Everyone knew that Laura¡¯s husband, Zach, was a notorious womanizer in Wavery.


    ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± Shirley¡¯s eyes turned red-rimmed. Faced with Josie¡¯s questioning from the moral high ground, she couldn¡¯t help but tremble. ¡°What right do you have to question me about something even the wife can¡¯t be bothered to care about?¡±


    That remark was the crux of the matter.


    Josie countered sternly, ¡°She doesn¡¯t care because she can¡¯t be bothered. As her friend, I¡¯m stepping in today. Ms. Ross, it¡¯s important to have self-awareness. Everything you received falls under marital property, and you¡¯ll be demanded to return it all when the timees.¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    For a moment, all attention was on Shirley, so everyone momentarily forgot about the matter regarding Josie.


    Shirley red in Laura¡¯s direction, her eyes brimming with tears.


    Not long after, Laura managed to squeeze her way through the crowd. She took Josie¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°Let it go. Don¡¯t take offense with her.¡±


    Josie held her back. ¡°I know you don¡¯t want to talk about it and aren¡¯t interested in getting involved in such matters. I merely want to tell those scheming women not to be delusional.¡±


    In the face of everyone¡¯s gaze, Laura found it hard to stay for long. ¡°The poor girl is quite pitiful. She might have been deceived by Zach, so let¡¯s go easy on her.¡±


    She was rather magnanimous.


    Josie snorted. ¡°You¡¯re really good-tempered. If it were the old you, you would have probably pped her by now.¡±


    Laura turned her face away. ¡°Just let it go. You don¡¯t want to draw attention, right? Let¡¯s go.¡±


    However, the crowd began to specte in hushed voices upon seeing that Josie was really acquainted with Laura. They found her beyond familiar, but they couldn¡¯t quite ce her.


    When they reached a corner, Josie was still upset and excused herself to the restroom. Laura patted her on the shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t be angry anymore. There will be a hands-on segmentter, so remember toe back quickly to watch it.¡±


    Nheless, Josie remained disinterested.


    In a dimly lit corner, Shirley fought back tears. ¡°What do you mean to allow her to humiliate me like that? Don¡¯t forget you were the one behind it back then!¡±


    The other woman¡¯s voice was icy cold. ¡°Did I tell you to provoke her?¡±


    Shirley was left without a retort.


    The other woman continued, ¡°What is Josie¡¯s status, and what¡¯s yours?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to draw scandal to her, but she simply wouldn¡¯t take the bait.¡±


    ¡°What a fool!¡±


    After exiting the restroom, Josie touched up her makeup before the mirror. Her phone buzzed with a message from Dexter. It read: Where are you?

 Chapter 1253

    In the Olsen Residence at that moment, Dexter sat with his legs crossed, drumming his fingers casually. Across from him sat Mark.


    ¡°Since Charles has endured much hardship, he will undoubtedly report it to the state authorities once he¡¯s out. As for Lucas, it¡¯s only a matter of time before he¡¯s caught. At that time, the Olsen family will certainly lend our support.¡±


    It was a firm statement from Mark.


    When it was something involving Josie, he had zero tolerance.


    Dexter gave a slight nod. ¡°With that promise from you, I can naturally rest assured.¡±


    At that moment, udia came out with a bowl of herbal tonic. ¡°This is good for your health. It does no harm, so drink it.¡±


    Dexter nced at the housekeeper behind her, his expression inscrutable. For the past two years, udia had been subtly trying to win his favor in order to get more information about Josie. He had never responded to her attempts, but now that Josie was back, he decided differently.


    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Olsen.¡±


    udia smiled in delight.


    ¡°Dexter, I hope you don¡¯t mind me asking, but when did you find Leanne?¡± Mark suddenly asked, his tone probing.


    That day, Dexter sent someone out of the blue to tell him that Josie was held captive by Arnold in the waters of Wavery. The news frightened Mark greatly, and he gathered his men and set off overnight.


    ¡°It was my decision not to tell you about her identity. She wasn¡¯t mentally prepared yet. I hope you can understand,¡± Dexter answered honestly.


    He took all the me upon himself.


    Mark and udia exchanged a nce, understanding dawning upon them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not bring up the past anymore. It¡¯s all behind us now. Since you could make her believe in you, I hope you won¡¯t disappoint her again,¡± udia said softly.


    Mark seconded, ¡°Indeed. It¡¯s been two years. The fact that you both reconnected again is fate.¡±


    Dexter nced upstairs, but the entire Olsen Residence was quiet without any movement. He asked, ¡°Hasn¡¯t Laurae back?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Mark was lost briefly, only cottoning on following udia¡¯s subtle hint. ¡°Yes, she¡¯s back. She took Leanne to a cocktail party for designers tonight. They left not too long ago.¡±


    As the sky outside gradually dimmed, so did Dexter¡¯s gaze.


    Noticing it all, Larry whispered, ¡°Mr. Russell, there is something urgent awaiting your attention at the office.¡±


    Taking advantage of that, Dexter stood up and took his leave.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Just then, udia¡¯s phone rang. ¡°Laura?¡±


    Dexter halted in his tracks.


    The person on the other end of the phone said something or other, upon which udia cried out, ¡°What did you just say? Leanne has been ndered?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be there shortly.¡±


    After she had hung up the phone, Mark was also in a state of panic. ¡°What¡¯s going on? What happened?¡±


    ¡°Leanne got into an argument with someone at the cocktail party, and she can¡¯t prove her innocence now. I need to make a trip over.¡±


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll go too!¡±


    Frowning, Dexter stopped Mark from his course of action. ¡°I¡¯ll go with Mrs. Olsen instead.¡±


    In a hurry, he left the Olsen Residence and opened the car door for udia. ¡°Moses, drive!¡±


    He unlocked his phone several times, only to find the screen empty. Josie didn¡¯t respond to his message, and that only heightened his anxiety.


    Back at the cocktail party then, Josie had just left the restroom when she bumped into a young boy. He had anticipation written all over his face. ¡°You¡­ You¡¯re Alice, right? I¡¯d been hesitant to approach you earlier. I¡¯m sorry for disrupting you, but I really like you.¡±


    His eyes sparkled, making it impossible for anyone to refuse him.


    Calm and collected, Josie tilted her head a fraction. ¡°How did you know I was Alice?¡±


    I¡¯ve never appeared before the public with that identity.


    ¡°Back when I was abroad for an exchange program, I had the chance to meet you once. I never thought you¡¯d be here. I really like your designs. I hope you aren¡¯t upset because of the dispute earlier. Wavery¡­is actually quite nice,¡± the boy said enthusiastically.

 Chapter 1254

    Josie nodded gently. ¡°I know. Thank you for liking me.¡±


    The boy was instantly exhrated, his face lighting up with excitement. ¡°Can I take a picture with you, miss? I¡¯ve been a fan of yours since your first work in Sumanthova. I never thought I¡¯d meet you here.¡±


    Josie¡¯s lips curved into a smile. ¡°Are you also a designer now?¡±


    ¡°Yes. You are my goal.¡±


    Josie chuckled. ¡°Come on, then.¡±


    She subtly shifted her body, positioning herself beside the boy. She watched as he raised his phone, his other hand resting lightly on her waist as he smiled at the camera.


    He was overjoyed to have gotten a picture with her, bowing and thanking her repeatedly.


    Following such a turn of events, Josie¡¯s mood significantly improved, the gloom from Shirley making things difficult for her earlier all but gone.


    ¡°Why did you take so long?¡± Laura, standing below the stage, asked with augh.


    ¡°I bumped into a fan.¡±


    Josie was a touch embarrassed when she said that. Laura patted her on the shoulder. ¡°They¡¯ve already started on the stage, Maestro. In my opinion, their skills can¡¯tpare to yours.¡±


    It was an impromptu work that wasn¡¯t meant to be taken seriously, but one could still discern a degree of skill from it.


    After admiring the designers on the stage for a while, Josie suddenly noticed two slightly older elders in the center of the stage, who appeared calm andposed. ¡°Who are they?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know? They¡¯re veterans in this industry. They haven¡¯t produced much work in recent years, merely making appearances asionally to mingle with the public. Oh yes, they¡¯re Shirley¡¯s aunt and uncle. So, I was genuinely frightened when you started contending with her just now.¡±


    What contending? Clearly, she was one-sidedly putting me in a difficult position.


    Upon giving it some thought, Josie recalled that there were indeed two experts with the family name of Ross in Wavery. Unexpectedly, they turned out to be Shirley¡¯s rtives.


    ¡°This cocktail party is hosted by them?¡±


    ¡°You can say so.¡±


    Immediately, admiration showed on Josie¡¯s face even as she frowned at Laura. ¡°Your capacity for tolerance is downright immense that you can coexist peacefully with the other woman.¡±


    If the Ross family were to learn that even the legitimate wife is here, they¡¯d undoubtedly be beyond proud. No wonder Shirley was so arrogant just now.


    Laura crossed her arms before her and snickered. ¡°In this social circle, there¡¯s no such thing as the other woman. There are only mutual interests.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t agree with such an environment. Nheless, she remained silent.


    The host on the stage was none other than Shirley, who brimmed with enthusiasm. ¡°How about this? To make this more interesting, let¡¯s randomly select a few designers toe up and paint.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    No sooner had she finished speaking than her gaze fell upon Josie.


    A sense of foreboding rose within Josie.


    ¡°Thisdy, that gentlemen, and this beautiful youngdy here, pleasee up on stage.¡±


    Sure enough, the final spot fell to Josie. Thetter raised an eyebrow. The others, whether willingly or out of respect for the Ross family, began heading to the stage.


    Having no desire to go on stage, Josie remained motionless. However, Laura¡¯s hand rested on her waist. ¡°The Ross family and the Olsen family have a coboration together, so it¡¯s not appropriate to snub them.¡±


    Josie clenched her fingers tightly. If it were in the past, she would never have fawned over the rich and powerful.


    But in such an event, she couldn¡¯t afford to be willful. ¡°Fine. Consider it as me venting for you.¡±


    Laura smiled widely.


    The sprawling artwork on the stage was already halfplete. It tested a designer¡¯s creativity, each stroke of utmost importance.


    Shirley¡¯s aunt, Bethany, stepped back with her husband. Meanwhile, Shirley put down the microphone and picked up the paintbrush, immersing herself in art.


    Josie stood at the very end of the artwork. She was in no rush to make a move but scrutinized the whole painting for a good while. Seeing that, Shirley wore a sneer on her face. Despite herck of talent and training, she felt more than capable against a nobody like Josie.

 Chapter 1255

    The artwork¡¯s theme was pastoralndscape painting. To highlight the interior design, the few designers made bold decisions in the architecture. A road teeming with flowers and nts wasid out in front of a row of vige houses under the setting sun.


    Bethany and her husband studied everyone¡¯s painting for a while. When they reached Shirley, they even offered some personal guidance to enhance the richness of the architecture.


    Finally, it was Josie¡¯s turn. Everyone craned their necks, eagerly waiting to see how she would conclude the artwork.


    She didn¡¯t reach for the paintbrush. Instead, she walked over to where the flower baskets were disyed, snagged a stalk of wheat, and dipped it in paint of a simr color. With just a few strokes on the canvas, she managed to capture the image of wheat fields swaying in the breeze under the setting sun.


    Bethany exchanged a nce with her husband, surprised by her skills.


    Following that, Josie picked up the paintbrush. Bending over, she painted people chattering casually below the buildings.


    In every intricately designed house was a unique tale-a newlywed couple, squabbling children, and elderly folks living in solitary. As she sketched them, she also incorporated her ideas into the other designs.


    Her painting was mature and practiced. She didn¡¯t look like a novice at all. Instead, she was more like a teacher grading an assignment.


    As the final stroke fell, the entire painting suddenly brimmed with vitality as if it hade to life.


    All the onlookers eximed in admiration, ¡°This¡­ truly requires skills!¡±


    ¡°Indeed. Although she didn¡¯t add much to the architecture, every detail was meaningful.¡±


    Even Bethany and her husband nodded fervently. ¡°We have never seen this designer in Wavery.¡±


    Josie was dressed in a pristine white gown, her face a picture of serene indifference. Standing before thendscape painting, sheplemented it perfectly.


    Shirley was so furious that she shook with rage. There was no need forparison before everyone knew who was more outstanding. Josie! How could this be?


    Just then, a round of apuse rang out from the entrance. ¡°As expected of you, Alice! You shine wherever you go!¡±


    It was a cheerful and resonant female voice.


    Hearing that, everyone present swung their gazes over to the sight of a mixed-heritage woman in a leather jacket and pants, exuding an air of sassiness.


    It was none other than Vivian.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Only then did Josie smile, unaware of when she arrived.


    ¡°It¡¯s Vivian! Vivian has arrived!¡±


    Bethany were the first to react. ¡°Alice? The Alice from Sumanthova is you?¡±


    Since the woman was an elder, Josie nodded. ¡°My Clusian name is Josie Warren.¡±


    That single utterance caused several uproars, leaving the crowd in utter disbelief.


    ¡°Alice is Josie? My goodness, that¡¯s a national- level expert. I heard she¡¯s very young, and no one has ever seen her true countenance. How could she be Josie?¡±


    ¡°Josie¡­ She was the member of the Olsen family who suffered a tragedy two years ago.¡±


    ¡°She has returned?¡±


    Josie¡¯s announcement of her return at such an event was undoubtedly sensational. At the very least, the social circle would buzz with gossip for the next month.


    ¡°The member of the Olsen family?¡± Bethany frowned, having mixed emotions.


    Josie was reluctant to acknowledge her background and identity, but no matter what, her bloodline was undeniable. After nodding in admittance, she hastily went off the stage and approached Vivian. ¡°Why have you only just arrived?¡±


    Vivian scratched her nose lightly. ¡°Wavery sure has a lot of rules. I was stopped by the traffic police several times just for riding a motorcycle.¡±


    Josie embraced her. The two of them had known each other before they made a name for themselves. Now that they had attained sess and fame, their contact had ironically reduced.


    ¡°Alice, I only came to attend this cocktail party because I heard you were back in the country.¡±


    ¡°Me, too.¡±


    They looked at each other and shared augh. Suddenly, a voice rang out from the stage. ¡°We¡¯ve just been informed that ady here lost a valuable bangle!¡±

 Chapter 1256

    Everyone swung their gazes to the stage in unison. Unsurprisingly, Shirley held the microphone, saying urgently, ¡°The staff have checked the surveince footage, and no one left all this time. Therefore, we need to seal off the scene temporarily. Only after a thorough investigation can everyone be allowed to leave.¡±


    No sooner had the words left her lips than several security officers appeared at the entrance, barring any exit and entry.


    Faced with such an unexpected incident, Bethany wore a grim expression. ¡°What bangle? And who lost it?¡±


    Shirley had a look of anxiety etched on her face. A woman in full makeup cautiously stepped forward. ¡°It¡¯s me. The bangle is worth millions and is a family heirloom, so I can¡¯t afford to lose it.¡±


    Recognizing her, Josie couldn¡¯t help but snort. ¡°Ava?¡±


    The woman wearing an aggrieved expression was the same person who acted high and mightyst time. Her change in demeanor was swift. With her eyes teary right then, she indeed looked pitiful.


    Even more amusing was that the ex-mistress and current mistress were meeting face to face,


    Vivian was bewildered. ¡°Who is that?¡±


    ¡°Just watch the show as a joke.¡±


    Josie attempted to locate Laura, suspecting that the incident likely targeted her.


    Meanwhile, the crowd started whispering among themselves. ¡°Everyone here has a worth of millions. Who would steal your bangle?¡±


    ¡°Exactly. That would be beyond disrespectful.¡±


    Ava was on the verge of tears. ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, but the bangle means a lot to me.¡±


    ¡°The price isn¡¯t the issue here. The point is, it¡¯s a family heirloom. I¡¯m sure none of us would want to bear the me. Let¡¯s have a brief search. It would be better for everyone,¡± Shirley stated emphatically.


    Amidst a wave ofints, everyone still cooperated by heading over to the security to be searched.


    Vivian was naturally displeased. ¡°As soon as I arrived, I¡¯m being used like this. I don¡¯t like it.¡±


    She and Josie were at the end of the line. Thetter consoled, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the bad experience.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s fine. It¡¯s my first time seeing you in a gown. You look stunning. So, Josie is your Clusian name.¡±


    Unexpectedly, those who had been searched at the front circled over, brimming with excitement. ¡°Vivian, may I have your autograph? I¡¯m a big fan of your work.¡±


    Far more people had their faces flushed with embarrassment and said to Josie, ¡°We didn¡¯t know you were Alice. If we were impolite earlier, please forgive us. May we take a picture with you?¡±


    In a sh, the atmosphere there turned lively in an unusual manner.


    Shirley and Ava exchanged nces, gnashing their teeth in anger.


    ¡°She¡¯s actually Alice.¡±


    There were many people, and signing autographs took a bit of time. After about fifteen minutes, the security finished their search. They walked to the center of the crowd and announced, ¡°Excuse the interruption, but there are only twodies left to search. Please cooperate.¡±


    Everyone was taken aback. ¡°Has the bangle not been found yet?¡±


    Josie¡¯s eyes flickered as she was suddenly filled with a vague sense of foreboding.


    Despising trouble, Vivian was the first to put down her pen and spread her arms. ¡°Go ahead and search.¡±


    A security officer apologized before searching her, but as expected, found nothing.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    The crowd rustled. Josie slowly put down the pen in her hand, her gaze traveling past the crowd to meet Ava¡¯s. Thetter made a sweeping gesture.


    Josie¡¯s eyes fell on her handbag. The security officer had already reached out, unzipped it, and started searching. For a moment, all was silent, with the only sounds of objects colliding.


    It was a small makeup bag.


    In it are lipstick,pact powder, an eyebrow pencil, some tissues, and also a bunch of keys. That¡¯s all there is.


    As Josie cast her mind back to its contents, the staff paused at just that moment and took out an exquisite jade bangle from her handbag.


    Immediately, a photo was pulled up forparison.

 Chapter 1257

    When an item that didn¡¯t belong to her was found in her handbag, her sense of foreboding was proven true.


    Josie¡¯s expression darkened slightly while Vivian cast her a worried nce.


    The security officer nced at Josie. Subsequently, Ava quickly ran over. She took the bangle, putting on an expression of having regained something lost. ¡°This is my bangle. It¡¯s mine. I¡¯ve finally found it!¡±


    Then, she stared at Josie in disbelief. ¡°It was you. You stole it.¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression remained calm, but it was tinged with a hint of disgust. ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Does it have wings, then? Did it fly right into your bag on its own?¡±


    ¡°As I¡¯ve said, I didn¡¯t steal it.¡±


    ¡°What absurdity!¡±


    Following that turn of events, whispers filled the air around them. ¡°This can¡¯t be. Would Alice steal?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to say. If she were just Alice, it would be unlikely. But given her background as Josie, there have been scandals about her in the past.¡±


    Simr sentiments spread through the crowd.


    ¡°Check the surveince footage.¡± Josie exhaled slowly. ¡°I said I didn¡¯t take it, and I meant it. Who knows, someone might be trying to set me up and frame me.¡±


    As she said that, she cast a nce at Shirley nearby. Thetter¡¯s face was a picture of utter frustration.


    Meanwhile, tears streamed down Ava¡¯s face. ¡°Are you suggesting I deliberately ced the bangle in your handbag, concocting such an borate scheme to frame you? Do I look like I¡¯m insane?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s difficult to say.¡±


    ¡°Josie! Don¡¯t take things too far! I admit I didn¡¯t know my ce and offended you two years ago, but surely you¡¯re not still holding a grudge, are you? Besides, you have such a high status now. Why can¡¯t you let it go? This bangle was left to me by my grandfather. If it weren¡¯t found today, I would have been devastated.¡±


    Ava cried her heart out, looking every bit the victim. Witnessing the entire debacle, Josie was simply astounded. It¡¯s a waste that she isn¡¯t pursuing a career in acting but being a gold digger instead.


    Vivian couldn¡¯t bear to listen any longer. She trusted Josie¡¯s character.


    ¡°You know her current status. She doesn¡¯tck money or fame, so why would she take a risk and steal your bangle?¡±


    ¡°Because that¡¯s just who she is!¡± Ava was so frustrated that the veins at her neck popped up. ¡°Two years ago, she schemed her way into marrying Dexter. And when he didn¡¯t want her anymore, she turned vindictive, sabotaging his rtionship with others. The whole of Wavery knows about it!¡±


    That was indeed true, but the way she narrated them painted Josie as a terribly wicked person.


    At Vivian¡¯s disbelief, Ava pointed at Josie. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, ask her. Two years ago, her reputation in Wavery wasn¡¯t exactly ster. There were even rumors of her giarizing. Who knows what she might have done to be Alice now!¡±


    The crowd admired Alice¡¯s style and skills. But if she were associated with the name Josie, it undeniably aroused some suspicions.


    They couldn¡¯t help themselves but to take half a step back.


    Josie twisted her neck, growing somewhat impatient. In a cold voice, she asked, ¡°Have you found anything from the surveince footage?¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Sweating profusely, the security lifted theirptops. ¡°We¡¯ve checked¡­ When the crowd gathered earlier, no one touched your handbag. Please try to recall any other details.¡±


    Wasn¡¯t it earlier? A piece of memory shed across Josie¡¯s mind, and she suddenly remembered the boy who had stopped her for a photo when she came out of the restroom.


    Her expression gradually turned grim.


    Ava wiped away her tears. ¡°How about this? I know I can¡¯t afford to offend you. I won¡¯t demand anypensation either. Just apologize to me, and we can put this matter behind us.¡±


    ¡°Apologize?¡± Josie repeated slowly, her voice filled with disbelief.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to apologize?¡±


    Apologizing would mean admitting to the crime, no? Josie took a deep breath. ¡°Ms. Ava, I¡¯ve never seen you all night, and I didn¡¯t even know you were present here. As for how this bangle appeared, you should know better.¡±

 Chapter 1258

    ¡°So, you¡¯re implying that I set you up?¡± Ava questioned.


    ¡°My advice is to not take the words of a third party seriously,¡± Josie.


    ¡°Josie! Don¡¯t push your luck. Even now, you¡¯re being unreasonable,beling me as a third party. Weren¡¯t you once the same too? Back then, your relentless pursuit of Dexter was well known to everyone!¡±


    Josie¡¯s expression darkened. She didn¡¯t want to argue further, so she turned to the security and said, ¡°Feel free to investigate my whereabouts tonight. If I had any contact with Ms. Ava, you¡¯d be wee to take me away.¡±


    For a moment, everyone fell silent.


    Vivian held Josie¡¯s hand tightly in encouragement. In return, Josie signaled that everything was fine and scoffed, ¡°I don¡¯t understand why someone would make such a fuss over something worth a mere few million. Do you think I have some prophetic ability and specifically came here to steal your so-called bangle?¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡±


    ¡°Frankly speaking, I suggest you check its authenticity. From what I see, that bangle isn¡¯t worth millions.¡±


    ¡°Josie!¡± Snapping, Ava lunged forward to get physical with her but was promptly stopped by Vivian. In broken Clusian, Vivian warned, ¡°Watch it!¡±


    Ava¡¯s face flushed bright red. ¡°No matter what, the bangle was found in your handbag. Don¡¯t you think you owe me an exnation?¡±


    The entire spectacle had Bethany shake her head profusely.


    She stepped out and interjected, ¡°Let¡¯s wait for the staff to investigate. Considering the current circumstances, no one should jump to conclusions. Ms. Warren, you¡¯re the prime suspect, so please cooperate.¡±


    In a short span of time, Josie went from being the morous Alice to a universally denounced thief. That drastic change severely tarnished her reputation upon her return to Wavery.


    Josie quickly realized what was happening-it was a meticulously nned and organized setup targeting her instead of Laura.


    ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Ross, I request to review the surveince footage from thedies¡¯ restroom.¡±


    ¡°Thedies¡¯ restroom? You mean, someone set you up there?¡±


    Josie looked around, but the enthusiastic boy was nowhere to be found. It was as if he had never been there at all.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    At her silence, Bethany and her husband had no choice but to have someone investigate it.


    ¡°That was a blind spot for the surveince camera, so there¡¯s no footage.¡±


    Ava blew up. ¡°She said that on purpose, trying to clear her name by doing so!¡±


    Josie remained silent. At that point, she had no better way to rify the alleged crime she was used of.


    Bethany seemed to have thought of something, and she sighed. ¡°Why don¡¯t you just apologize? This matter can be put to rest, then. It won¡¯t spread further. You need to consider this carefully and cherish your reputation.¡±


    Josie¡¯s retort of having done nothing to apologize for was right on the tip of her tongue when a resonant female voice rang out from outside. ¡°Why should she apologize for something she never did?¡±


    Everyone swung their gazes over, only to see a woman dressed in in clothes yet wearing a stern and authoritative expression walk into the room. She moved with a steady gait, her aura imposing.


    Josie was taken aback. udia? Why is she be here?


    udia mostly stayed in church and seldom attended such an event. As such, the majority of the younger generation didn¡¯t recognize her. However, Bethany and her husband did. Reverence showed on their faces.


    ¡°udia, why did youe all of a sudden without even a heads-up?¡±


    udia scanned the crowd, her expression serious and devoid of humor. ¡°If I hadn¡¯te, who knows how you all would have oppressed my daughter.¡±


    Everyone went silent.


    Upon seeing the situation, Ava began showing signs of uncertainty and panic. How could this be? How could it havee to udia¡¯s attention?


    ¡°The matter isplex. We didn¡¯t want to do so either, but the fact is that Jo¡­ no, Leanne, couldn¡¯t prove her innocence.¡±


    ¡°In that case, continue investigating. How could you force someone to apologize?¡±

 Chapter 1259

    As udia spoke, she walked over to Josie. Her voice then became notably gentler.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Mixed emotions brewed within Josie. ¡°I didn¡¯t do, so I¡¯m fine.¡±


    udia turned around to face Ava directly. Her first words were, ¡°Youngdy, I¡¯ve met you before.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Olsen¡­¡± Ava¡¯s heart sank to rock bottom.


    ¡°Two years ago, I gave you arge sum of money in my son¡¯s condominium and asked you to leave him. You epted the money and agreed to my terms. Yet, you stayed by his side and demanded more money by using pregnancy as an excuse.¡±


    With every word from udia, the color drained from Ava¡¯s face. In the face of such immense pressure, she couldn¡¯t utter a word of denial.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for me insisting that you get an amniocentesis, we would never have known that the child you carried wasn¡¯t my son¡¯s.¡±


    Following that single statement, the crowd plunged into an uproar. Whoa! A honey trap!


    ¡°What¡¯s this? You raked in money hand over fist, yet it was still insufficient? Now, you¡¯re even trying your tactics on my daughter.¡±


    udia¡¯s mention of the word ¡°daughter¡± rolled off her tongue with such ease and familiarity that Josie was almost too stunned to react.


    Ava¡¯s face flushed bright red, but she insisted, ¡°Regardless of whatever happened in the past, the fact remains that the bangle was found in your daughter¡¯s handbag now.¡±


    udia gave a slight nod, then turned and motioned at the subordinate she brought along. ¡°Check the bangle and see if it¡¯s worth millions.¡±


    Before she came over, she had already learned of the entire situation and purposely brought along an antique appraiser.


    Ava¡¯s hand trembled as she held the bangle. She took a deep breath. ¡°Regardless of its worth, stealing is still a crime!¡±


    Without even needing to touch the bangle, the appraiser made his conclusion. ¡°The color isn¡¯t rich enough, and the material is too thin. It couldn¡¯t possibly be a family heirloom. It¡¯s a fake.¡±


    The first lie was shattered.


    udia shed a smile at Ava. ¡°You¡¯re right, youngdy. No matter its worth, stealing is a crime.¡±


    Ava nodded emphatically. ¡°Therefore-¡°


    ¡°Bring him in!¡±manded udia in a deep voice.


    At the entrance on the top floor, a young boy was escorted in under duress. Josie¡¯s brows furrowed in surprise, for it was the same person who asked her for a photo, and the person escorting him in was none other than Larry.


    Seeing him is akin to seeing Dexter. He has alsoe?


    Bethany was lost. ¡°What is this?¡±


    Larry forcefully pinned the young boy to the ground. ¡°Speak for yourself!¡±


    ¡°I¡­ the bangle¡­¡± Noticing the look in Shirley and Ava¡¯s eyes, the young boy didn¡¯t dare lift his head. He said through tears, ¡°I¡¯m an extra hired by Ms. Ava. She¡­ She was the one who instructed me to stop Josie under the pretense of taking a photo and slip the bangle into her bag.¡±


    After he had finished speaking in a stutter, everyone was taken aback.


    Vivian snorted. ¡°What a despicable tactic. How filthy.¡±


    Bethany, on the other hand, was puzzled. ¡°So, how did you find out about it?¡±


    ¡°As soon as I arrived at the hotel, I ran into this furtive man. At a nce, I could tell he was up to no good. With just a bit of pressure, he spilled everything.¡± Larry had his hands sped behind his back, exuding a dominant aura.


    With that, the second lie was exposed.


    Ava trembled even more violently. She lifted her head, only to find that Shirley was no longer where she had been.


    She fervently shook her head, wanting to deny it all, but she knew that at that point, no one would believe her. Moreover, she was incapable of going against udia.


    ¡°Ms. Ava, can you apologize now?¡± udia asked, her voice resonant.


    Ava dared not lift her head. She shuffled her feet slowly. Just as she wanted to bow in apology to Josie through her tears, she was stopped. Thetter¡¯s voice was icy. ¡°Tell me who your aplice is, and you don¡¯t have to apologize.¡±


    Ava was taken aback for a moment, but she then quickly said, ¡°I did this all by myself. I was jealous and despised you, so I framed you. I¡¯m sorry!¡±

 Chapter 1260

    Everyone gasped.


    As it turned out, the drama that unfolded was nothing short of a false usation. The mere thought of how Josie might have navigated her way out of this convoluted mess had udia not made her timely entrance was beyond anyone¡¯s imagination.


    ¡°How malicious¡­¡±


    Gradually, Josie began to piece everything together, standing up more confidently as she did so. It became evident to her that Ava was acting out of a desperate attempt to protect someone at all costs. Prodding for more information from Ava seemed futile.


    Josie¡¯s gaze settled on Bethany, noting the worry that was deeply etched into her face. In that moment, rity dawned upon her.


    udia said, ¡°Bethany, this unfortunate incident urred under your watch. Don¡¯t you reckon my daughter is owed a thorough exnation?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Bethany¡¯s expression wasden with regret as she continuously nodded in acknowledgment. ¡°It truly is our oversight that such a remarkably talented individual had to face this level of public humiliation. Henceforth, in any simr scenarios, and this includes but is not limited to upscale venues, Ava will find herself permanently banned from every establishment within Wavery!¡±


    Upon digesting these words, Ava instinctively recoiled, visibly taken aback.


    For a woman of her elevated social standing, this decree served as a harsh reprimand, akin to a bolt of lightning on a clear day. Moving forward, her ess to mingle within such esteemed circles would be unequivocally severed!


    ¡°Josie, how does this resolution sit with you?¡±


    In response to the query, Josie exchanged a brief look with udia before offering a subtle nod of agreement. ¡°That seems fair enough.¡±


    ¡°Someone, escort her out,¡± came the subsequentmand.


    Without hesitation, the security guards advanced, taking Ava under their charge. She was visibly pale, her eyes darting desperately around the room and fixating on Josie, her body quivering with each step.


    Despite the turmoil, she remained silent about the identity of her aplice.


    The atmosphere had grown still. Josie had acknowledged the Ross family¡¯s act of contrition. As the crowd began to disperse, udia escorted Josie away from the rooftop scerie. udia¡¯s simple attire and minimalistic makeup did little to mask her inherent allure.


    Josie followed behind udia, their connection seamless, reflecting a natural bond that seemed predestined.


    Larry was with them every step until they reached the hotel¡¯s entrance. Parked along the roadside were two vehicles, one notably with its windows firmly shut.


    Josie paused momentarily, udia mirroring her actions. ¡°Upon learning of today¡¯s events, Dexter was deeply troubled. He yed an instrumental role in aiding us. Without his intervention, our departure today would have been significantly more challenging. You should go,¡± thetter encouraged.


    Josie, with a hint of concern knitting her brows, acknowledged Vivian, ¡°Give me ten minutes, I¡¯ll make it quick.¡±


    And so, under Vivian¡¯s astonished gaze, Josie promptly made her way to the rear seat of the ck car.


    Settling into the car, her phone emitted a timely buzz. She quickly muted it and looked up, locking eyes with him.


    His appearance was striking-thin lips, light eyes, and a pronounced nose, all contributing to a gaze that was both intense and captivating.


    Before Josie had the chance to process the moment, the man was already reaching out, gently adjusting a few loose strands of hair from her forehead. ¡°It looks like everything has settled down now,¡± he remarked, his voiceced with relief.


    This sudden closeness made Josie instinctively retract a bit. ¡°Howe you¡¯re here with udia?¡±


    ¡°I was at the Olsen Residence when Laura called,¡± he exined, shedding light on his unexpected presence.


    That exins it then¡­


    ¡°Then what about Grape?¡±


    ¡°Justin¡¯s taking care of her at home.¡±


    As their conversation dwindled, a reflective silence enveloped the vehicle. Josie could detect the distinct aroma of tobo emanating from him and modestly lowered her gaze, expressing her gratitude, ¡°Thanks for your help.¡±


    She was seated at an angle, her feet adorned with slender high heels, featuring strings of silver rhinestone tassels that dangled unevenly against her pale ankles. Her attire, a gown, painted her as a vibrant ssh of pink, a sight both captivating and elusive.


    ¡°Is a simple ¡®thank you¡¯ all you have to offer?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Before she had time to react, he swiftly grasped her ankle, drawing her closer. Their breaths mingled closely, and Dexter¡¯s voice was soft, almost a whisper, ¡°It fell off.¡±

 Chapter 1261

    Josie was taken aback, instinctively pressing her hands against his chest in surprise. ¡°What?¡±


    As they moved closer, their proximity almost led to their bodies touching. Dexter then raised his hand, proceeding to fasten the strap tied around her ankles.


    His gentle touch sent Josie¡¯s heart racing. As she sighed, a fleeting look of disappointment crossed Dexter¡¯s features. ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    Another thank you.


    Dexter released a quiet sigh, taking off his sses and absentmindedly drumming his fingers against her hand. ¡°They¡¯re quite red,¡± he observed.


    Josie noticed, seeing that it was fairlymon for the skin to be reddened and irritated from prolonged high heel wear.


    Unbeknownst to her, Dexter was captivated by the sight, his yearning for her intensifying by the moment, reminiscent of a predator poised to strike.


    However, his next action was to simply retrieve a pair of band-aids from the front seat, offering a practical solution rather than acting on his impulses.


    The silence that enveloped them felt heavy, prompting Josie to inquire, ¡°What was the discussion with the Olsen family about?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a trade secret, typically not disclosed to outsiders.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but let out a soft chuckle at his evasiveness, albeit she was reluctant to acknowledge it was her family they were talking about. ¡°If you¡¯re not going to share, then leave it.¡±


    Dexter gave her a sidelong nce, continuing his task. ¡°But to my family, such barriers do not apply.¡±


    Applying the band-aid to the irritated area brought immediate relief, making Josie remark in surprise, ¡°Our agreement for a hundred days isn¡¯t up yet. Doesn¡¯t that temporarily ce me within your family? Why can¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    Her response was quick and pointed.


    Dexter, with a lightugh, replied, ¡°Trade secrets are bound by confidentiality agreements, effective until the conclusion of the project. What if you inadvertently disclose something before then, even after our hundred days?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t do that!¡±


    His gaze became more intense. ¡°Would you be interested in extending our arrangement until thepletion of the project?¡±


    Josie paused, taking a moment to understand his implication, then hesitated, ¡°Well, that depends on the duration of the project. Extending it might introduce unforeseen risks.¡±


    Dexter¡¯s grip on her ankle was firm. ¡°It¡¯s a risk- free proposition. Only benefits, no drawbacks.¡±


    It was only then that Josie realized her leg was still resting on hisp, the entire scenario veering into unmistakably intimate territory.


    She turned away, indicating her intention to leave. ¡°I promised them I¡¯d be back in ten minutes. I need to go now.¡±


    The intimacy that had enveloped them dissipated. As she reached for the car door, an unexpected force pulled her back. His hand found its way to the back of her head, gently pulling her in closer.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Their lips connected in a tender kiss, sending her senses into a whirlwind.


    ¡°Mmph¡­¡± Josie tried to push back.


    Yet, she was no match for his strength. With minimal effort on his part, the kiss deepened, its fervor escting to the brink of overwhelming passion.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes sparkled with an extraordinary intensity. He kept his eyes open, watching her futile attempts to break free from the passionate embrace.


    Frustrated, Josie pushed harder, and this time, Dexter relented. His lips brushed against her cheek, settling whisper-soft on her earlobe. He took her trembling hand, cing it against his chest.


    ¡°Leanne, did you hear that?¡±


    There was no response from her.


    His skill in flirting was unparalleled, to the extent that she found herself learning from him despite her best efforts. She was utterly outssed, her resistance melting away as her breathing quickened.


    Wherever her hand touched, his heart beat furiously, its warmth nearly burning.


    ¡°Each time we meet, my only desire is to whisk you away, to have you by my side every single moment,¡± he murmured softly into her ear, ¡°I¡¯m not a patient man; don¡¯t make me wait too long.¡±


    Holding onto thest vestiges of her resolve, Josie stated firmly, ¡°After the hundred days, this ends as well.¡±


    Hisughter, low and husky, tickled her ear. ¡°In this game, it¡¯s not your ce to make the rules.¡±

 Chapter 1262

    How shameless!


    Josie shot him a look that was meant to be reproachful, yet her eyes, dancing with a blend of shyness and apprehension, unwittingly conveyed more allure than admonition at that instant, exuding an irresistible charm.


    As she withdrew her hand, an impromptu query crossed her mind. ¡°Has that car ident left anysting effects on your heart?¡±


    At this juncture, Dexter¡¯s attention appeared to slightly diminish. His response, delivered in a tone straddling the line between sincerity and jest, was ambiguous, ¡°No, the impact you¡¯ve had on it is far more significant.¡±


    Unable to contain herself, Josie lightly pped him on his body, her action more yful than punitive. In her movement, she inadvertently grazed his delicate area.


    Dexter¡¯s brow knitted, a quiet hiss escaping him. He grabbed her hand again, his voice a low caution, ¡°Be careful with your movements.¡±


    The realization of her idental contact sent a flush of warmth across Josie. She knew she couldn¡¯t linger any longer, ¡°I really need to leave now!¡±


    She hastened out of the car, the cool embrace of the night air alleviating the heat on her cheeks as she made her exit.


    Raising her head, she found herself locking eyes with the few individuals who had been awaiting her return. She halted, momentarily frozen, before a wave of embarrassment overcame her, wishing she could vanish into thin air.


    D*mn it, Dexter!


    Laura, seemingly having just arrived and slightly out of breath, scrutinized Josie from head to toe before breaking the silence. ¡°You look fine. Perhaps I was overly concerned.¡±


    Josie caught her breath and approached, inquiring, ¡°Where were you earlier?¡±


    ¡°After making a call to my mother, I went out to meet her, worried she might lose her way. Little did I expect to just miss her.¡±


    Josie acknowledged with a nod, her attention then diverted by the absence of Vivian. udia stepped forward to inform, ¡°Your friend departed a while ago; she mentioned she would contact youter.¡±


    Josie grasped the situation without further exnation.


    Once inside the car, an initial silence lingered between them, momentarily thickening the air.


    udia stared out the window, seemingly engrossed in the passing view. Josie observed her for a moment before deciding to initiate conversation, ¡°Thank you for your help today. Without it, clearing my name would have been a struggle.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    udia offered a subtle nod in acknowledgment. ¡°It wasn¡¯t your fault, but had the events escted today, it could¡¯ve severely tarnished your reputation. Have you considered why Ava chose to forfeit her own interests rather than disclose her aplice to you?¡±


    Josie mused, ¡°It¡¯s likely that someone present intimidated her into silence. I suppose it was Shirley.¡±


    udia regarded Josie with a nod of affirmation. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, why didn¡¯t you confront them sooner? With my presence, the Ross family would have hesitated to make any missteps.¡±


    ¡°The alliance between the Ross and Olsen families was at stake.¡± Josie rified earnestly, ¡°I wasn¡¯t physically harmed. However, any discord sown among our younger members that jeopardizes the coborative interests of both families would result in a loss. Weighing the benefits against the drawbacks, I understand the importance of discretion.¡±


    udia¡¯s approval became more evident. ¡°Thus, it wasn¡¯t I who helped you, but rather you who provided assistance to us, Leanne. It was always clear to me that your insight and judgment extend beyond the trivial.¡±


    These words were spoken without anyone catching the fleeting shadow of difort that passed over Laura¡¯s features as she remained silently seated.


    It was apparent udia was steering Josie in a particr direction.


    ¡°Truth be told, had things escted further just now, pacifying the situation would have been a challenge, especially considering the close ties between the two families,¡± Laura confessed openly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through that, Jo.¡±


    Josie shook her head, yet the memory of Dexter¡¯s intense stare was imprinted in her mind, indelible.


    udia, noticing her preupation, turned toward Laura and inquired, ¡°The project you¡¯re embarking on with Juliette, has itmenced?¡±


    ¡°It had.¡±


    ¡°Let Leanne take the lead on this. Her skills are a perfect match. It would alleviate much of your burden,¡± she proposed.


    Laura furrowed her brows. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve mentioned before that I have no intention of getting involved with the Olsen family¡¯s business,¡± Josie interjected, reaching out to hold Laura¡¯s hand to stop her from continuing.


    udia, far from offended, merely smiled softly. ¡°In any case, don¡¯t rush your decisions. Who knows? You might find yourself more amenable by tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 1263

    Josie was puzzled. By the time they arrived at the Olsen Residence, udia had already punctuated the conversation.


    Later that evening, while rxing in the bathtub, Josie received a message from Vivian: Looks like our dear Alice has quite the impressive background. I¡¯m starting to feel a bit jealous. Remember how we struggled just to have a decent meal, and you never mentioned any of this!


    Chuckling, Josie typed a reply: I didn¡¯t mean to keep it from you, sorry.


    Vivian, ever so quick to shift gears, then inquired: The car you were getting into, was there a man inside?


    Her knack for guessing didn¡¯t disappoint this time either. Reflecting on that moment, a spontaneous warmth spread over Josie¡¯s cheeks, a feeling of openness she hadn¡¯t anticipated.


    Vivian pressed on: Yes or no?Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Josie: Yes.


    Vivian: Who was it, I wonder? That car, from what I¡¯ve gathered, underwent customization. It¡¯s a unique model in the entire world, must be quite the treasure, right?


    At a nce, Dexter seemed unassuming. Yet, only a select few recognized that everything surrounding him was of unparalleled quality.


    Josie chose not to reply.


    Vivian: Does he treat you well?


    Treat me well?


    Post-reunion, Josie thought he had been treating her fairly well. While she was still deep in thought, Vivian had swiftly unearthed details about the car, sharing with Josie: This car hadn¡¯t been spotted in Wavery for over half a year. Last seen, it was featured on a financial news broadcast.


    In that piece, the spotlight wasn¡¯t on Dexter but rather on a woman. The headline boldly dered: Prominent Entrepreneur Juliette Witherspoon Rumored to Be Holidaying with Affluent Beau.


    The footage captured her exiting a hotel, her short locks perfectly styled, sporting a yful smile. Beyond her confident air, she exuded a distinctive feminine allure, sliding into a waiting car to drive off solo.


    Throughout the coverage, the man¡¯s face remained unseen.


    Yet, the car, unmistakably the same one Dexter drove that day, even the license te was a match.


    Josie did the math; six months prior, she and Dexter hadn¡¯t reconciled.


    Could Dexter¡­ be acquainted with Juliette? Their connection must¡¯ve been significant since he wouldn¡¯t just allow anyone to drive his car.


    Receiving no response for a while, Vivian decided to call directly. Her Clusian was choppy, causing her to fumble her words. ¡°Alice,¡± she queried, ¡°are you facing a love rival?¡±


    Josie stepped out of the bath, her feet touching the cold floor. ¡°You¡¯re reading too much into it. We¡¯re just friends.¡±


    ¡°And who are ¡®we¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Him and me¡­¡±


    Friends, yet they¡¯ve shared a bed and have a child together.


    Vivian lost interest quickly. After a brief chat, she mentioned her departure from Wavery the next day, adding, ¡°By the way, I heard you were here, so I came. Did you set this up?¡±


    Josie¡¯s brow creased. Few were privy to her stay¡¯in Wavery, much less to inform Vivian.


    Her attendance at the cocktail party was mainly in anticipation of Vivian¡¯s presence.


    This revtion hinted at a possible setup.


    ¡°Alice?¡±


    ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    ¡°No idea; they just sent me an email.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Josie sat in front of a full-length mirror, contemting deeply. Without intervention, the previous night, her reputation, and her alias ¡°Alice,¡± could have suffered greatly. The potential fallout was daunting.


    Who could¡¯ve orchestrated this?


    Laura¡¯s image briefly crossed her mind, but she quickly dismissed it. If that were the case, Laura wouldn¡¯t have sought assistance from udia.


    It must be a coincidence.


    Josie reasoned that maybe she was an unintended pawn in Shirley¡¯s borate plot. Yet, how could Shirley, with her simplicity and innocence,e up with such a detailed conspiracy?


    As she deliberated, her gazended on her ankle, noticing for the first time a strawberry- shaped Band-Aid. Now waterlogged, it had begun to peel away.


    Bending down, Josie removed it, observing that the swelling had notably decreased.

 Chapter 1264

    The situation was indeed unusual. Ever since Laura had made her way back, Zach had taken to ensuring he was present at dinner each night. He maintained a convincing facade, yet what truly upied his thoughts remained a mystery.


    On that particr evening, his pallor seemed more pronounced than usual. When Laura extended a piece of food toward him with her fork, Zach abruptly swatted it aside. ¡°I¡¯m perfectly capable of serving myself if I wish to eat. Spare me your insincere gestures,¡± he retorted.


    Laura ceased her movements, lifting her eyes only to be met with several concerned stares.


    It was Mark who set down his chopsticks first, his tone firm. ¡°Enough with the theatrics; apologize.¡±


    Laura shook her head gently. ¡°It¡¯s fine, Father. It was unintentional on his part.¡±


    ¡°I assure you, my actions were intentional.¡± Zach¡¯s mood was notably sour that day, ¡°Surely, I¡¯ve not reached the point where I can¡¯t even make my own choices about what to eat or drink.¡±


    This veiled insinuation didn¡¯t escape Josie, who made a stylishlyte entrance and seated herself with poise.


    ¡°Who¡¯s to say you can¡¯t eat? There¡¯s no need for such outbursts here,¡± Mark reprimanded.


    The tension in his voice eased when he noticed Josie, his demeanor softening. ¡°How was your sleepst night?¡±


    Resting her chin on her hands, Josie was almost amused. ¡°Quite restful, actually. Maybe that¡¯s why Zach is in such a foul mood, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Considering udia had managed to deal with his two mistresses all at once the previous night, his sourness was to be expected.


    Zach shot her a re. ¡°Seems you¡¯re quite smug about it, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Josie remained unfazed, casually picking up a piece of food with her fork and cing it into Laura¡¯s bowl. ¡°My view is, why fret over their preferences? Focus on what pleases you. If they¡¯re hungry, they¡¯ll sort themselves out elsewhere. No need to trouble yourself over it.¡±


    Laura¡¯s expression fluctuated between embarrassment and distress, the state of her marriageid bare in such a manner was mortifying.


    Nevertheless, she conjured up a strained smile.


    ¡°Stop ying the victim, Laura. Everyone¡¯s got their secrets, right? Ava is history. Are you still bearing a grudge against her, or is Josie the one pulling the strings?¡± Zach directly challenged Josie, heedless of the repercussions.


    Trying to contain her frustration, Laura sharply set down her utensils. ¡°Years back, I was lenient enough to let her terminate the pregnancy on her own terms. If you wish to quarrel today, I don¡¯t mind exposing all our shared secrets!¡±


    Just as udia stood, having just stepped from the bedroom, she caught this exchange.


    Narrowing her eyes, shemented, ¡°This isn¡¯t Laura¡¯s fault. My actionsst night were my own doing. Is your anger directed at me now?¡±


    She carefully ced a cup of decaffeinated coffee on the table.


    ¡°Mother, you knew-¡°


    ¡°All I¡¯m aware of is how your mistress wronged Leanne. That alone justifies their punishment!¡±


    As her words resounded, causing the young trio to nce up, each wearing a distinct expression.


    A frosty smile yed on Laura¡¯s lips.


    ¡°Are we done with this charade? You have two choices-either remain seated and continue with your meal, or leave and nevere back.¡±


    Mark¡¯s tone was authoritative, yet carried a conciliatory undercurrent. ¡°I never behaved so disgracefully in my younger days. I wonder, whose influence is this?¡±


    Despite his initial resistance, Zach eventually sumbed and reluctantly resumed his seat.


    Mid-meal, Mark tapped the table, turning his attention to Josie. ¡°Perhaps we should give Witherspoon Group¡¯s project another thought? She reached out to me yesterday, pressing for you to join her on a venture to Wavery, iming it had been prearranged with you.¡±


    Juliette¡­Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Josie hesitated, pausing with her food halfway to her mouth as the news from the night before flickered through her thoughts.


    ¡°Yes, it was mentioned, but we hadn¡¯t finalized anything.¡±


    Mark was delighted. ¡°Well then, let¡¯s proceed. It could serve as a fine opportunity to get to know her better. Given that she¡¯s a woman, I¡¯d imaginemunication might be more straightforward.¡±

 Chapter 1265

    ¡°I¡¯ve had the opportunity to work with her father in the past and met her on several asions. Despite her youth, she showcased insightful ideas that truly made her stand out as someone to coborate with.¡±


    Josie was eager to share everything she knew about Juliette in a single breath.


    Previously, Josie might have outright declined, but something within her hesitated this time around.


    Spotting her hesitation, Laura interjected, suggesting they reconsider, ¡°Let¡¯s hold off on that. Jo has just gotten back and isn¡¯t yet limated to the business industry here. I¡¯ve been deeply involved in this project for several months now; it would make more sense for me to continue leading it.¡±


    ¡°She needs the practice, after all.¡±


    ¡°But-¡°


    ¡°I¡¯d like to take it on,¡± Josie interjected, silencing the room. ¡°I had already made amitment to guide her. We can sort out who will ultimately lead the projectter on.¡±


    Mark, ted by her willingness, nodded so vigorously his leg nearly turned a shade of purple from all the enthusiastic tapping.


    udia likewise voiced her support for Josie¡¯s decision. Laura, caught off guard, was left feeling somewhat agitated and anxious.


    ¡°Here¡¯s what we¡¯ll do, Laura,¡± Mark proposed, ¡°Don¡¯t rush with the project. Allow Leanne to familiarize herself first, then you can transfer all the rted documents to her. I¡¯m assigning you to head a more critical acquisition case. You have no objections, right?¡±


    Laura managed a wry smile. ¡°No objections here. It was originally Jo¡¯s project, after all.¡±


    The subtlety in her tone did not escape udia, who cast her a few more scrutinizing nces, her expression darkening slightly.


    Once it was just the two of them, Josie couldn¡¯t help but feel ufortable. ¡°I apologize for stepping in and taking over your project upon my return. It wasn¡¯t intentional. This project just aligns so well with my skill set. Additionally, I find Juliette¡¯s unique perspectives quite admirable.¡±


    Her agreement wasn¡¯t solely influenced by the recent news. Indeed, there were underlying reasons, such as a shared camaraderie among women.


    Leaning against the door, Laura let out a scornfulugh. ¡°Why the apology? Eventually, everything in the Olsen family will be yours. For years, Zach¡¯s mistresses have belittled and mocked me without any repercussions from the Olsens. Yet, upon your return, udia swiftly dealt with two of them.¡±


    Her smile was dazzling yet filled Josie with guilt. ¡°Perhaps¡­ now you¡¯re in a position to act as well,¡± she suggested.


    Laura simply shook her head, offering no furtherment.


    Though she took on the role of the guide, Josie realized how much the city had changed in her absence. Preparing for the trip required extensive online research for travel guides.


    Their first destination was the sea. Josie personally arranged for a yacht, nning a tour around the ind..


    To her surprise, Juliette arrived, unapanied, dressed casually in a short- sleeved shirt and shorts, her hair tied back in a high ponytail and adorned with a baseball cap, looking much younger than her thirty years.


    ¡°Ms. Olsen, why are you just standing there watching me? Aren¡¯t we setting sail?¡± Juliette inquired, her smile bright.


    Josie chuckled. ¡°I was mesmerized by your youthful appearance, almost too captivated to move.¡±


    Juliette, adventurous by nature, eagerly took on piloting the yacht after a quick lesson. Josie apanied her, sharing stories of the historical sites they passed.


    ¡°Have you always lived in Wavery?¡±


    Allowing the breeze to tousle her hair, Josie teased, ¡°Ms. Witherspoon, given that your call reached Mark, surely you¡¯re aware of my origins?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    The two shared a nce andughed.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to intrude, but your name came up at the cocktail partyst night, revealing you as the Olsen family¡¯s daughter. Had I known sooner, I would¡¯ve visited you directly. I¡¯ve even met your father.¡±


    I knew it would spread, but I didn¡¯t expect it to spread this quickly. Josie, not yet ustomed to referring to Mark as her father, mused, ¡°It¡¯s just a temporary arrangement.¡±


    Juliette, picking up on the delicate nuances of their conversation, chose not to delve further.

 Chapter 1266

    Josie had initially believed that returning to the sea might shadow her with mncholy. Yet, the opposite urred; her thoughts lingered on a figure of resolve.


    I wonder how¡¯s Arnold doing these days¡­


    Within an hour, their yacht docked at a secluded ind, a hidden gem detached from the hustle and bustle of Wavery. The ind maintained a unique ordinance: only bicycles were permitted, setting it apart as a distinct hallmark of this coastal gem.


    ¡°This ind boasts a renowned seaside estate and thergest art gallery in the region. The artworks housed here are of unparalleled value,¡± Josie introduced.


    Juliette raised a hand to shield her eyes from the ring sun. ¡°I¡¯ve long heard of Wavery¡¯s splendor, yet it seems to mirror the charm of other popr destinations.¡±


    Josie absorbed her words. ¡°Ms. Witherspoon, I ¡°Please, don¡¯t call me Ms. Witherspoon.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­¡±


    ¡°Call me Juliette,¡± she exhaled. ¡°A friend once shared tales of an ind in Wavery where one could perch on a cliff¡¯s edge to behold a breathtaking sunset. However, given the throngs of tourists, I suspect we won¡¯t be able to enjoy that experience.¡±


    A spark ignited in Josie¡¯s expression, her smile brightening under the sun¡¯s rays. ¡°I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    ¡°Is there truly such a spot?¡±


    Josie, with a light step, ventured ahead. ¡°This ce is etched in my memories from my university days. Having roommates from diverse backgrounds, I often yed tour guide. Hence, I¡¯ve grown somewhat weary of the usual tourist spots in Wavery. The location you speak of, I¡¯ve only visited once.¡±


    Juliette, intrigued, followed her. ¡°And why is that?¡±


    Back then, the Olsen family celebrated Rachel¡¯s birthday at Wavery¡¯s premier art gallery. It was during this event that her giarism scandal unfolded. Dexter intervened, confining her to the manor behind the gallery.


    That location just so happened to be here.


    At that juncture, she felt utterly defeated, retreating into istion. From there, she witnessed endless sunsets.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Indeed, Josie recalled the existence of a peculiar gap in the cliff.


    Without addressing Juliette¡¯s question directly, Josie inquired, ¡°Is this ce important to you?¡±


    ¡°My friend is a person of few words. They rarely made such rmendations. Naturally, my curiosity was piqued.¡±


    Uncertain of what prompted the thought, but as Josie approached the manor¡¯s boundary, she realized a prior arrangement was necessary. ¡°I wasn¡¯t informed about needing an appointment,¡± she remarked.


    ¡°My apologies, miss, but ess to this location requires prior booking and isn¡¯t open to the public,¡± the guard exined gently.


    Embarrassment briefly touched Josie¡¯s face, noticed by Juliette, who chose not to push further. ¡°It¡¯s all right,¡± Juliette conceded, ¡°It¡¯s my oversight for not mentioning this beforehand. Perhaps we can n for another visit.¡±


    Josie, lost in thought, then dered, ¡°Hold on a moment, I need to make a quick call.¡±


    The call connected almost instantly.


    Dexter¡¯s polished voice filled the line, ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Leanne?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at¡­ that particr manor in Wavery, you know, the one behind the art gallery? I¡¯d like to go inside, but I¡¯ve been informed an appointment is necessary. Any suggestions?¡±


    Though it felt awkward requesting his assistance, Juliette¡¯s hopeful look was undeniable.


    Dexter, without probing into her reasons for the visit, softly instructed, ¡°Did you bring your ID card with you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I did.¡±


    ¡°Just swipe your ID card at the entrance; it will unlock. I added your details into the system two years ago.¡±


    Josie, taken aback, inquired, ¡°Why wasn¡¯t I aware of this?¡± as she proceeded to the ID scanner.


    ¡°I never meant to restrict your freedom two years ago. Leaving was always an option for you,¡± Dexter rified, hastily adding, ¡°Admittedly, that was a mistake on my part.¡±


    As Josie swiped her ID card, not only did the grand gates slowly swing open, but the security guard¡¯s expression also shifted to one of astonishment.


    Juliette, visibly impressed, eximed, ¡°Oh, my goodness.¡±

 Chapter 1267

    At that moment, Josie wrestled with the feeling of being cherished versus being under surveince. She managed a wry smile. ¡°Thanks, I¡¯ve made it inside.¡±


    Then Dexter inquired, ¡°What¡¯s the purpose of your visit?¡±


    Suddenly, Grape¡¯s voice came from the other end of the line, and the arrival of an employee with reports was abruptly silenced by Dexter.


    ¡°Is that you, Mommy? I want to talk to her!¡± Grape interrupted.


    As Josie was about to exin, Dexter swiftlymanded, ¡°Escort her outside for a moment, give her some time to settle down.¡±


    The employee hesitated before moving forward, gently coaxing Grape in a subdued tone.


    It quickly became quiet.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°You were too harsh on her,¡± Josie said.


    ¡°You still haven¡¯t answered my question.¡±


    After a pause, she replied, ¡°I brought a friend along, hoping it¡¯ll help clear our minds.¡±


    Dexter found it hard to believe that she would casually visit a ce that had previously caused her pain, yet he chose not to delve further. ¡°Today¡¯s Monday, and Russell Group is holding a board meeting. Grape insists on tagging along, which means I have no other choice,¡± he exined.


    Josie¡¯s eyes widened in shock, ¡°You¡¯re not suggesting, you brought her to Russell Group, are you?¡±


    The silence from the other end of the line was telling.


    She nearly yelled out in frustration, but somehow managed to summon the man¡¯s name in a whisper, ¡°Dexter Russell!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a confidential matter; she¡¯s being taken care of by a select few and is adapting remarkably fast,¡± he tried to reassure her, sensing her lingering upset. He added, ¡°Jo, it was something that was going toe to light sooner orter.¡±


    At a loss for words, Josie simply ended the call, leaving him to ponder her sudden outburst.


    The unexpected intimacy that surfaced in that moment of vulnerability wasn¡¯t lost on anyone.


    The manor¡¯s beauty remained unchanged. Josie and Juliette reached what was known as the cliff gap, where they encountered many attendants along the way. Each attendant seemed surprised to see Josie, yet they all bowed in respect.


    Juliette, finding amusement in the situation, teased, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me, this luxurious mansion belongs to you.¡±


    ¡°Had it been mine, we wouldn¡¯t have been stopped at the gate,¡± Josie replied.


    Juliette yfully put a hand on Josie¡¯s shoulder, her tone teasing, ¡°Belongs to a man, then?¡±


    Caught off guard by Juliette¡¯s directness, Josie blushed and responded with a yful jab of her elbow. Julietteughed heartily, sprinting ahead with a joyful bounce in her step.


    The cliff was decorated with a plethora of rhododendrons, and the sight,bined with the twilight¡¯s approach, offered a breathtaking spectacle unmatched in the mortal realm.


    Juliette recounted a tale of a time when the grand sun slowly dipped into the sea, leaving its lingering glow on an inessible cliff, against which waves tirelessly crashed. He was there alone, lost in the majestic solitude that the scene offered. ¡°So, the stories were true, they didn¡¯t lie to me,¡± Juliette spoke softly, her fingers mimicking the sun¡¯s descent.


    Standing behind her, Josie couldn¡¯t pinpoint why, but she felt a deep sense of despair in her words.


    It dawned on her that this despair was not hers but that of the narrator.


    Her current emotional state eerily mirrored hers from years past.


    Turning around, Josie caught sight of her former living quarters. The floor-to-ceiling windows stood as a stark reminder of the despair and agony she had once endured.


    Yet, she realized some emotions were hard to empathize with, now that it was all in the past.


    ¡°Josie, why are you crying?¡± Juliette inquired suddenly.


    It was only then that Josie became aware of the tears that had silently formed. She brushed them off with augh, ¡°Caught something, did 1? Your friend has quite the story.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Would you like to meet this friend of mine?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve made ns to see him today, though it¡¯s always a bit tricky since he¡¯s quite the busy man,¡± Juliette exined as she started walking, ¡°Let¡¯s go meet him together.¡±


    ¡°But he¡¯s your friend. That hardly seems appropriate¡­¡±


    ¡°You can vouch for me that I did visit this ce, felt what he felt. Let¡¯s do this together, all right?¡± With a youthful charm, Juliette took her hand.


    Josie truly wished to inquire if Juliette knew Dexter and the nature of their connection. Yet, when she was about to voice her question, she refrained.

 Chapter 1268

    By the time they bid farewell to the serene ind, darkness had already enveloped the sky. In stark contrast to the ind¡¯s peaceful tranquility, the maind buzzed with the ceaseless rhythm of traffic and the vibrant hustle of daily life.


    Juliette had arranged transportation in advance, and they made their way directly towards the city¡¯s bustling Central Business District. Nighttime did little to dim the luminosity of the soaring skyscrapers, each aglow with activity.


    Josie found herself lost in thought as she gazed through the car window, observing the unchanged pace of life outside. The incessant flow of workers, each engrossed in their own world, striving tirelessly toward what they deemed their dreams.


    ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± Juliette inquired, momentarily diverting her attention from applying makeup in thepact mirror to steal a nce at Josie.


    ¡°Just reminiscing about old times. I used to work in this area,¡± Josie replied.


    Juliette appeared genuinely taken aback. ¡°You mean to tell me you actually had to work for a living?¡±


    It seemed Juliette was somewhat oblivious to Josie¡¯s less morous past, a realization that wasn¡¯t entirely unpleasant. Josie confirmed with a nod, ¡°Indeed, life wasn¡¯t always this smooth. I jumped into the workforce right after university, and overtime became my constantpanion.¡±


    A particr memory prompted Josie to gesture towards the lipstick Juliette was holding. ¡°Once upon a time, I would¡¯ve had to budget carefully for a whole month just to afford that brand,¡± she mused, reflecting on the financial constraints of her early adult life.


    The path that led Josie to her current circumstances was one marked by a series of unpredictable, dramatic events.


    Juliette, lips pursed thoughtfully, offered a consoling thought, ¡°Yet, here you are, still radiating youth and beauty. Unlike myself who, at thirty, finds sce in makeup to conceal the years.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°So, this friend must be quite significant, to make someone as free-spirited as you exercise caution.¡±


    Juliette¡¯s amusement was evident, though she chose not to verbalize her thoughts.


    At that moment, Josie¡¯s phone buzzed with a message from Dexter: Where are you? It¡¯s gettingte. If you¡¯re out and about, feel free to stay over at the manor for safety.


    As Josie was absorbed. in crafting a reply, the car gracefully came to a halt. She stepped out, momentarily caught off guard by the sight that greeted her-Russell Group¡¯s skyscraper looming above.


    Juliette, with a quirk of her eyebrow, prompted, ¡°Come on, my friend works here.¡±


    A surge of apprehension gripped Josie as her fingers hesitated over her phone¡¯s screen. Moving forward, she decided against sending her drafted message, opting instead for a simple query: Where are you now?


    Dexter seemed to always have his phone on him as his response came almost immediately: The board meeting just ended. I¡¯m still at Russell Group.


    Josie: What are your ns after that?


    Juliette, stepping into the elevator with a confident stride, pressed the button for the building¡¯s topmost floor. Josie felt a twinge of unease ripple through her.


    Dexter: I¡¯m meeting a friend. We might have dinner together.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    After a pause, he added: We¡¯re meeting at Russell Group.


    By then, Josie had pieced together the unfolding scenario, but the opportunity for evasion had slipped through her fingers.


    She let out a soft sigh, a wave of helplessness washing over her as she caught her reflection in the elevator mirror.


    After a hiatus of two years, she found herself en route to Russell Group once again, this time led by Juliette.


    The elevator¡¯s swift ascent prompted a brief ringing in Josie¡¯s ears, a reminder of her nervous anticipation. Dexter¡¯s text arrived: Why the sudden interest in my whereabouts? nning to drop by?


    The top floor and the surrounding secretariat, even more staffed than before, exuded opulence. The receptionist, Thalia, upon noticing their arrival, greeted them with the utmost respect, ¡°Hello.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Juliette, here to see Mr. Russell. Could you please inform him of my arrival?¡±


    While Thalia nodded inpliance, her gaze shifted to Josie, who was attempting to remain inconspicuous behind Juliette.


    Thalia¡¯s mouth opened slightly, as if to say something. Quickly, Josie signaled for silence with a swift gesture.


    Her face, widely recognized due to Dexter¡¯s unmistakable fascination with her over the past years, was too well-known. There wasn¡¯t an employee within Russell Group who wouldn¡¯t recognize her on sight.


    ¡°Juliette, I suddenly don¡¯t feel well; I think I need to find a restroom. Please, go ahead without me,¡± Josie interjected hastily, seeking a momentary escape.

 Chapter 1269

    Juliette¡¯s expression shifted to one of concern upon noticing Josie¡¯scklusterplexion, prompting her to inquire, ¡°Everything all right with you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she managed to respond.


    Thalia, adept at navigating the nuances of her high-level position, subtly sensed the tension, offering guidance with, ¡°Miss, please allow me to show you to the restroom this way.¡±


    For Josie, this felt like a timely rescue.


    Her feelings toward Juliette wereplicated, a mix of transparency and concealed emotions. There was nothing ostensibly secretive about their rtionship, yet the undercurrents wereplex.


    Moreover, Josie couldn¡¯t ignore the apparent affection Juliette harbored for Dexter, making her feel somewhat intrusive as Dexter¡¯s ex-wife.


    Once inside the solitude of the restroom, Josie hastily sshed her face with water, seeking rity among the whirlwind of thoughts.


    Thalia, lingering nearby, hesitated before confirming, ¡°Ms. Warren, right? I hope I¡¯m not mistaken.¡±


    Josie offered a smile, albeit strained, andplimented, ¡°Indeed, you¡¯re quite astute. Dexter sure has an eye for people.¡±


    Thalia¡¯s face fell into an expression of apology. ¡°Actually, I was chosen by Mr. Peeple and haven¡¯t had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Russell.¡±


    ¡°How did you recognize me then?¡± Josie inquired.


    ¡°Your story is legendary within Russell Group, akin to folklore. Everyone¡¯s familiar with it. It¡¯s quite a surprise to see you here, just like the stories predicted-Mr. Russell¡¯s great search ending in sess!¡±


    The hyperbole seemed a bit much to Josie.


    Leaning against the sink, she couldn¡¯t help but probe, ¡°What do people usually say about me?¡±


    Silence fell as Thalia hesitated to speak.


    ¡°Go on, I won¡¯t be upset,¡± Josie encouraged.


    ¡°Well, the talk wasn¡¯t always kind¡­ You were described as cunning, a disaster, and someone who could effortlessly ensnare Mr. Russell,¡± Thalia admitted reluctantly.


    Such descriptions weren¡¯t ttering, prompting Josie to ask, ¡°Isn¡¯t there anything positive?¡±


    After a moment¡¯s thought, Thalia shared, ¡°You were oftenuded as a formidable woman, credited with securing Mr. Russell¡¯s chairman position through your sheer effort. Without you, the Russell legacy might have beenpromised.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    This acknowledgment brought a sense of validation to Josie, who nodded in agreement. ¡°There¡¯s some truth to that, after all.¡±


    Thalia, eyes sparkling with curiosity, asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you going in? Mr. Russell would definitely be thrilled to see you!¡±


    Just then, Dexter¡¯s message popped up: Why aren¡¯t you replying?


    Josie¡¯s nonverbal reaction spoke volumes before she inquired, ¡°Where¡¯s Grape?¡±


    ¡°Could that troublesome little one really be¡­¡± Thalia¡¯s voice carried a tone of muted astonishment.


    Grapes had dozed off in a space right outside Dexter¡¯s office. As she opened the door, Thalia mentioned, ¡°She¡¯s all tuckered out from ying. With Mr. Russell still tied up with work, we¡¯ve arranged for her to rest here. The window¡¯s designed to be see-through from his side, allowing Mr. Russell a nce without effort.¡±


    Josie entered, finding Grape deep in slumber on a small bed, a milk bottle firmly in her grip.


    With a warm smile, she approached the window, drawing the blinds to obscure the view from Dexter¡¯s office, while her own view remained unobstructed.


    The office¡¯s decor was unchanged, its stark ck and white theme persisting without a hint of warmth.


    At that moment, Dexter was situated at his desk near the expansive window, freshly out of a meeting. His suit jackety discarded, his shirt sleeves rolled up to unveil the sleek contours of his forearms as he served coffee to Juliette, who sat rxed. His expression remained impassive, the epitome of coolposure.


    Yet, through Josie¡¯s eyes, Dexter¡¯s ease around Juliette suggested he viewed him as a confidante.


    Juliette, cupping her face in her hands, whispered something that elicited a rare chuckle from Dexter. He responded with a gentle nod, the two of them lost in casual banter as dinner was served.

 Chapter 1270

    The receptionist had tactfully excused herself, leaving only Josie and Grape alone in the room.


    She stood in ce for a long time, seemingly entranced by something, her gaze unwavering.


    Dexter didn¡¯t have many friends, and only Calvin and Zachariah could be considered as such. As for women in high-ranking positions, they were few and far between, let alone women he could call friends.


    He had lent her his customized car and they had shared dinner together in the office. Their rtionship couldn¡¯t have been merely superficial.


    It was a perfectly normal situation. Given his position, it was quite usual to have about a dozen people like this around him.


    However, Josie suddenly felt a sense of curiosity. She wondered about the time she wasn¡¯t a part of his life, the people he met, and the events he encountered.


    She wondered why she felt a tad upset about it.


    This is ridiculous.


    The dinner appeared to be quite scrumptious, with Juliette heartily indulging in the meal. However, Dexter didn¡¯t seem to participate. much in the feast. His attention was constantly drawn to his cell phone resting on the side table, its screen remaining persistently dark.


    ¡°Are you thinking about work?¡± Juliette suddenly reached out, waving her hand in front of him.


    Leaning backzily, Dexter said, ¡°No. Today¡¯s work is already over.¡±


    ¡°The Dexter I knew was not a man dependent on electronic products.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°The Juliette I knew wasn¡¯t the type of woman who would recklessly venture into an unfamiliar city to establish a business empire.¡±


    The two shared a knowing smile. Juliette nced at the night scenery outside the window. ¡°It wasn¡¯t a rash decision. I¡¯ve studied this for a long time. Wavery is indeed suitable for the current development path of Witherspoon Group. Oh, and I¡¯ve also encountered a partner who fits perfectly. I¡¯m persuading her to take on the project and coborate with me.¡±


    He had heard about her project. ¡°The current person in charge of the Olsen family is Laura.¡±


    ¡°Right, but I wasn¡¯t talking about her,¡± Juliette said to him with a mysterious smile. ¡°By the way, this time I¡¯ve brought something with me.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Juliette took a small wooden box from her bag and opened it in front of him. ¡°A year ago, when you were recuperating in Nusridge, you saw the rosary beads on my hand. You casually mentioned that you once had a simr one, but it broke. I remembered that, so I specifically went to the most spiritual church to get this set of beads for you. It¡¯ll bless you and keep you safe.¡±


    As she spoke these words, her eyes were sparkling brightly.


    Dexter lowered his gaze,nding on the string of rosary beads. Something crossed his mind, but it took him a moment before he spoke. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for you to go through so much trouble for me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it was no trouble at all. I¡¯ve sought out the most renowned master for a blessing. Are you going to waste my good intentions by not wearing it?¡± Juliette immediately stood up, took his hand, and without any further ado, put it on him.


    This scene unfolded before Josie, who was behind the blinds. It was particrly ring, and for a moment, she even began to feel a pang of heartache.


    She had once given Dexter a string of rosary beads, originally given to her by udia for her protection. At that time, she desired nothing else but Dexter, and so, she passed it on.


    He had worn it for a year, but now, his wrist was bare.


    When did he take it off?


    ¡°Juliette¡­¡±


    Dexter hadn¡¯t finished speaking when Juliette leaned in, her fingernding gently on his lips. Sheughed softly. ¡°Don¡¯t reject me. Considering that I saved your life a year ago, ept this.¡±


    It had been a year, and she had never made any requests. This was her only one.


    Dexter silently bit his lip, ultimately ceasing to resist.


    ¡°By the way, I did visit the cliff at sunset like you suggested, and it was indeed breathtakingly beautiful. You were right.¡±


    Dexter picked up his phone, not particrly concerned. ¡°How did you get in?¡±


    Juliette had a mouthful of food when she mumbled, ¡°The guide I found in Wavery was a really nice girl. She led me here. Oh, she also came with me but went to the restroom and hasn¡¯t returned yet. I wonder if she¡¯s scared of you that she didn¡¯t dare to¡­¡±


    The more he listened, the more solemn Dexter¡¯s expression became. As if struck by a sudden thought, he abruptly turned his head to look elsewhere.


    The blinds in the small room were drawn, leaving everything in darkness.

 Chapter 1271

    Juliette didn¡¯t notice his unusual behavior, continuing to chat about trivial matters. However, Dexter¡¯s phone lit up, and he immediately lowered his head to look at it.


    However, it wasn¡¯t Josie. It was a push notification for insignificant news.


    Suddenly, a wave of defeat surged in his heart.


    Juliette waved her hand. ¡°Dexter, are you listening?¡±


    Dexter¡¯s voice turned slightly solemn. ¡°It¡¯s about time. I¡¯ll have the driver take you home.¡±


    ¡°I brought my driver along. He¡¯s waiting downstairs, but I¡¯m still waiting for a friend. What¡¯s the matter? Do you find me bothersome and want me to leave?¡±


    Juliette cupped her chin, lookingposed and rxed, a hint of a teasing smile ying at her lips. The color of her lipstickplemented her lips perfectly.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Dexter spoke lightly, his gaze still lingering on the blinds. ¡°Is your friending back?¡±


    Unbeknownst to Juliette, as she was caught off guard, her phone conveniently buzzed. It was a message from Josie: Something unexpected came up, I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to provide you with the proof. I have to leave now, Juliette.


    Juliette stared at the message with a sense of loss. ¡°I wasn¡¯t finished talking¡­¡±


    Dexter observed, appearing nonchnt. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°My friend is a woman of great talent, who happened to align perfectly with my project. I was nning on persuading her to take over, but before I had the chance to speak, she left.¡±


    It sounded indeed unfortunate.


    Dexter leisurely picked up his coffee, holding it under his nose to take a light sniff. He spoke with a hint of teasing. ¡°Well, it seems I¡¯ve been holding up your important matters.¡±


    Behind the blinds, Josie leaned against the wall, a wave of guilt inexplicably rising within her.


    D*mn you, Dexter.


    ¡°No.¡± Julietteughed, scrutinizing the man before her. ¡°We haven¡¯t seen each other for more than half a year, and you¡¯ve lost even more weight. Still having trouble with your appetite?¡±


    ¡°Same old, same old. Nothing much has changed.¡±


    ¡°I obtained herbal tonics from an experienced traditional medicine practitioner. It¡¯s beneficial for your health. During my stay in Wavery, I¡¯ve arranged for it to be delivered to you.¡±


    When Juliette spoke these words, there wasn¡¯t a hint of ttery or appeasement. Instead, she was forthright and candid, as if she was simply conversing with a perfectly normal friend.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for all this. I¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were the type to neglect your medication when you¡¯re busy,¡± Juliette said, rising from her seat. ¡°Since you¡¯re not keeping up with your medicine, we¡¯ll have to focus more on your diet. In any case, I¡¯ll have Mr. Peeple ensure you eat properly.¡±


    Dexter said nothing and simply escorted her to the door. Juliette turned her head and suddenly reached out to fix his cor.


    She sighed softly. ¡°Even for the sake of us, your friends, you should take good care of your health.¡±


    They imed to be just friends, yet their demeanor and conversations clearly held a certain intimacy. It was as if they knew everything about each other¡­


    Such intimacy left Josie feeling confused.


    ¡°All right. Be careful on your journey,¡± he said.


    Juliette simply nodded, choosing not to linger.


    She knew where to draw the line.


    Dexter stood in the hallway, his back to the light. The polished floor reflected his stoic and indifferent expression. He remained there for a moment before turning around and heading straight for the small room, pushing the door open to enter.


    The room was bathed in a cozy light, with the soft little child sound asleep in the small bed. The woman leaned on the side, one hand propping her cheek, her eyes staring nkly at the ceiling, utterly bored.


    Her bare ankle, resting to the side, was so pale it was almost translucent, lightly tapping in an absent-minded manner.


    The enticing blend of a woman¡¯s perfume and theforting scent of a child¡¯s milk mingled, drawing Dexter in.


    ¡°When did you arrive?¡±

 Chapter 1272

    Dexter¡¯s voice was hoarse, and his gaze on Josie was practically burning.


    Only then did Josie let her gaze fall upon him. He wanted to appear nonchnt, but it only came off as forced. ¡°I wasn¡¯t here long. I didn¡¯t see anything. You don¡¯t have to be nervous,¡± she said.


    She attempted to get up from the bed. However, Dexter had already reached out, firmly holding her slender ankle. Leaning in slightly, he asked, ¡°How did youe to know Juliette?¡±


    His question was so suggestive that anyone unaware might have mistaken them for the whispered sweet nothings between lovers.


    Josie brushed aside therge hand resting on her cheek. ¡°What? Have I crossed the line for incidentally knowing your friend, Mr. Russell?¡±


    Her hostility was too intense, almost like a defensive hedgehog raising its spines.


    Dexter¡¯s eyes lifted at the corners, and he suddenly let out a soft chuckle. ¡°Jealous, are we?¡±


    It was a rhetorical question.


    This flirtatious remark made Josie¡¯s cheeks burn. She suddenly felt ufortable all over, avoiding his touch. ¡°Who¡¯s jealous? I just don¡¯t appreciate your interrogation. I came here for Grape, not to spy intentionally.¡±


    The more she tried to exin, and the quicker she did so, the more it seemed like she was trying to cover something up.


    In the end, she realized it herself. She chose to give up and fell silent, no longer bothering to speak.


    Dexter had always been a dominant man. He reached out and lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him under the ring light. Keeping his voice low so as not to wake the child, he asked, ¡°Do you still remember Mr. Harrison?¡±


    It was such a random question.


    Josie was slightly taken aback. ¡°He¡¯s the director who wanted to take over Russell Group.¡±


    ¡°A year ago, during an inspection in Nusridge, he maliciously tampered with my vehicle. Mr. Peeple and I nearly lost our lives. It was Juliette who happened to pass by and saved us.¡±


    Dexter recounted his story nonchntly, exining how he came to know Juliette and the circumstances that followed.


    Josie hadn¡¯t expected him to say that, and she was taken aback for a moment. ¡°Who cares-¡°


    He interrupted, ¡°Due to the severity of our injuries, we had to recuperate in the Witherspoon residence for over a month. It was their protection that allowed me to n properly and finally bring down Mr. Harrison.¡±


    Thus, Juliette saved him at a most critical time.


    The string of rosary beads on Dexter¡¯s wrist appeared exceptionally ring under the illumination of themp light.


    Josie couldprehend everything, yet for some inexplicable reason, she felt a sudden tightness in her chest, causing her to turn her head away.


    Dexter continued, ¡°Because of our personalities and shared profession, we became friends on good terms.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Oh.


    ¡°A disheartened man sharing a tale of cliffside sunsets, the kind of romance you¡¯d usually reserve for a dear friend. It was my first time listening to that story too,¡± Josie said bitterly. ¡°Are you trying to use me to gain her sympathy?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t hold back.


    The subtle undertone in her words made Dexter chuckle lightly. ¡°She once asked me about the unique attractions in Wavery. You know, I¡¯m usually not interested in those things, but the view that day was truly unforgettable.¡±


    Hmm.


    ¡°From the bottom of my heart, I hope your friendshipsts forever.¡±


    She wondered, how could this be? Juliette was an admirable woman, someone worthy of respect. Even if she had feelings for Dexter, it was only natural. Why am I so upset about this?


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Suddenly, Dexter closed the distance between them, and their lips nearly touched. He whispered, ¡°Are you still jealous?¡±


    Annoyed and embarrassed, Josie retorted, ¡°I said no.¡±


    At such close proximity, Dexter exerted great effort to control himself, gripping her hand so tightly that the veins on the back of his hand bulged.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s quick to deny.¡±


    Josie wished she could bite him, as she reprimanded him under her breath, ¡°I¡¯m not jealous. Stop being so unreasonable!¡±


    Dexter feigned ignorance, and his voice softened. ¡°Kiss me.¡±

 Chapter 1273

    In a state of urgency, Josie swiftly turned her face, ready to unleash a tirade. However, Dexter had already anticipated her move and promptly turned his cheek. As a result, her soft lipsnded on his cheek.


    Josie froze. She immediately burned up.


    By the time she reacted, she instinctively tried to retreat. However, Dexter, quick as lightning, had already raised his hand to gently cradle the back of her head. This time, without any mistake, he nted a kiss on her lips.


    They were intertwined with each other.


    Josie¡¯s heartbeat came to a halt. Her eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, she even forgot to struggle.


    Perhaps her will to struggle wasn¡¯t that strong at all.


    Dexter could feel it. He hadn¡¯t used much strength, but in the midst of their constant shifting and turning, his breathing gradually deepened. Hisrge hand came to rest on her waist.


    Josie finally came to her senses. ¡°Dexter¡­¡±


    Her voice was soft and low, reminiscent of a quiet kitten.


    He gripped her tighter, allowing her to feel him.


    ¡°Jo¡­¡±


    ¡°Let go of me. Our daughter is right here!¡±


    Catching Grape out of the corner of his eye, he noticed she was sound asleep. Without a second thought, he scooped Josie up by the waist and left the small room, heading toward the lounge.


    On the way, he even instructed his secretary, ¡°Take good care of the child.¡±


    The receptionist¡¯s face had turned red, let alone Josie. She was forced to nestle in the man¡¯s arms, hiding her face. This man, as always, had no shame.


    The door to the lounge closed with a soft click, and Josie was tossed onto the sofa. She found her freedom and was about to run, but the man grabbed hold of her calf. With a gentle tug, he pulled her back.


    ¡°Dexter! You beast!¡± Josie cried out in shock:


    She had asked him to pay attention to their daughter, not to move her to a different location!


    ¡°Indeed, I¡¯m a brute.¡± Dexter didn¡¯t argue. His chest was aze with a fiery emotion. His voice was low and cold, ¡°Jo, listen to me.¡±


    Their breaths intertwined, and a tingling sensation coursed through Josie¡¯s ears. The familiar feeling of breathlessness returned, leaving him utterly weak.


    Dexter kissed her fair neck, giving it a slight bite. Josie, wincing in pain, tilted her head back, much like a prey caught in the clutches of its predator.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the rosary beads that I gave you?¡± Josie asked, despite being lost in the throes of passion.


    Dexter paused in his actions, sparing a bit of energy to unsp the string of rosary beads from his wrist, casually tossing it onto the table.


    ¡°It broke the night you left Wavery.¡±


    Josie snapped back to her senses.


    ¡°Later on, Mr. Peeple considered piecing them back together, but I stopped him.¡± He gathered her hair strands, murmuring, ¡°I suppose it had shielded you from misfortune, so I just left it as it was.¡±


    So that¡¯s what happened.


    As he kissed her waist, Josie suddenly remembered something. She asked, ¡°Have you been unwell these past two years?¡±


    The man slowly lifted his head, his eyes tinged with a hint of redness. He revealed a unique smile. ¡°You¡¯ll know once you try.¡±


    That¡¯s not what I meant!


    As autumn was about to set in Wavery, a light rain fell during the night. The raindrops sttered against the floor-to-ceiling windows, blurring the neon lights outside. Josie was nearly delirious, only able to make out the distant coastal streetlights that formed a line, gradually fading into obscurity.


    After an indeterminate amount of time, everything finally came to a halt just as the neon lights were about to go out.


    Josie, drained of all energy, nestled in the man¡¯s embrace, as soft and pliable as a cat.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Her long, ck hair intertwined with her deep red skin, creating an indescribable allure that was utterly captivating, making one¡¯s heart flutter with desire.


    Dexter received a phone call, whatever was said on the other side was unknown. He responded with a light hum, his expression was noticeably upset as he hung up, and his earlier desire had all but dissipated.

 Chapter 1274

    Josie tilted her head back, snatching the half- smoked cigarette from him. He took a deep puff, and his mind became significantly clearer.


    ¡°Still feeling ufortable?¡± Dexter asked, tracing her tattoo at her waist with his fingertips.


    Josie red at him. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    She felt like a fool for ever thinking that Dexter was in poor health. Why did I ever doubt him?


    She gently freed herself from Dexter¡¯s embrace, picking up her shirt that had fallen to the floor and putting it on. Barefoot, she walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing distantly out of it, lost in thought.


    Dawn was about to break.


    In truth, she wasn¡¯t quite sure why she was going with the flow. It seemed that no matter how much she resisted mentally, her body couldn¡¯t deny this man.


    ¡°Dawn is breaking.¡± His voice suddenly fell upon her ears. Unbeknownst to her, he had moved behind her. Hisrge hands hovered behind her, his bulging veins exuding a masculine aura.


    Josie stared intently, remarking, ¡°Dexter, if you ever go bankrupt, you¡¯d probably do just fine prostituting yourself.¡±


    He chuckled lightly, a sense of contentment washing over him. ¡°You¡¯ve said that before.¡±


    Josie broke free from him, picking up the rest of her clothes from the floor. She retreated into the bathroom. When she reemerged, she was fully dressed, her disheveled appearance reced with a neat one. The red marks on her neck were now hidden beneath her dark hair.


    ¡°I¡¯m nning to take on the Olsen family project in coboration with Juliette. During this time, I¡¯d prefer not to let her know about our past rtionship.¡±


    How heartless indeed.


    Leaningzily against the door, Dexter asked, ¡°What about our rtionship now?¡±


    Josie red at him. ¡°Let¡¯s just act like strangers.¡±


    He was displeased, taking her hand and lightly toying with it. ¡°She and I are just friends,¡± he reiterated.


    ¡°Stop pretending. Can¡¯t you see she¡¯s into you?¡±


    Dexter didn¡¯t express agreement or disagreement. Yet, in his eyes, there was only the woman before him. Sometimes, he thought, if it was possible, he would love to have her by his side at all times.


    Josie withdrew her hand. ¡°I¡¯m leaving now.¡±


    Once it was over, they turned their back on him, leaving Dexter with the unsettling feeling of being used and discarded.


    He pulled her back into his arms with a swift motion, unwilling to let go, and even yfully whined, ¡°I don¡¯t want to let you go.¡±


    Josie knew full well what his voice signified.


    ¡°Dexter, you brute!¡±


    Once Dexter had her, he held nothing back, disying an uninhibited demeanor. He held her tightly. ¡°Do you know what I like about you the most?¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You seem so serious, but actually¡­¡± Thest words were whispered into her ear, causing Josie¡¯s body to flush with heat. She abruptly pushed him away. ¡°I¡¯m really leaving now!¡±


    The door to the lounge swung open, releasing a wave ofnguid scent.


    Grape had just woken up and burst out of the small room, bumping into Josie. Surprised and delighted, Josie squatted down. ¡°Grape? You¡¯re awake!¡±


    ¡°Mommy, I miss you so much.¡± Grape had been nestled in her arms for quite some time before she finally noticed Dexter, who had been watching them from behind all along.


    Dexter shed her a tender smile. ¡°It¡¯s not ideal to always call you Grape. Once we¡¯re back in our homnd, we need to register you officially. Let¡¯s pick a name for you.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t my name Grape?¡±


    Josie thoughtfully tied Grape¡¯s hair up for her.


    When it came to choosing a name, it involved a lot of considerations, and Josie still didn¡¯t know what to do about it.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about itter.¡±


    ¡°Mommy, when can I be with you?¡± Grape asked in her adorable voice.


    Josie felt a pang of heartache, but she was too conspicuous in Wavery. She didn¡¯t want the Olsen family to find out. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Grape. You might have to stay with Daddy for a while,¡± she said.


    ¡°Will youe to see me often?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll stay with Daddy!¡± Her response was exceptionally brisk, leaving Josie torn betweenughter and tears. ¡°Why are you so thrilled?¡±


    ¡°Because with me here, you and Daddy will see each other often!¡±

 Chapter 1275

    Taken aback, Josie looked up to meet Dexter¡¯s gaze. She hadn¡¯t expected Grape to think that, and she found herself unable to argue. All she could do was smile and nod in agreement.


    ¡°You¡¯ve decided to take it over?¡± Inside the Olsen family¡¯s study, Mark let out a sound of surprise and delight. He repeatedly pped the table, eximing, ¡°Brilliant, just brilliant!¡±


    Standing by the side, Laura lightly chuckled. ¡°Jo, what made you suddenly see the light? Is this the result of Juliette¡¯s sweet talk?¡±


    ¡°After interacting with her, I felt we were quitepatible, so I decided to give it a shot. You were right. Upon returning to Wavery, I needed to make a pledge of allegiance.¡± After Josie finished speaking, she turned to Mark and said, ¡°However, I have one condition.¡±


    Mark was more than happy to listen. ¡°Go on, is it a matter of payment? That¡¯s no issue at all.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°I want to move out of the Olsen Residence.¡±


    As the words fell, Mark¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°My health has improved, and I now have the means to find a ce to live in Wavery, so I don¡¯t want to trouble you any longer.¡±


    Though it was said so, the truth was, there was no desire to maintain any further contact with them.


    Mark wore a troubled expression as he attempted to persuade her. ¡°Listen, Leanne, no matter where you are, you¡¯re still a daughter of the Olsen family, you¡¯re Liane Olsen. It doesn¡¯t make sense for you not to live in the Olsen Residence. Of course, I¡¯m not against it. If you insist, I can arrange for you to live somewhere else and provide you with house staff.¡±


    ¡°No, I can handle it myself. I don¡¯t need all these things you¡¯re saying.¡±


    Josie didn¡¯t leave any room for courtesy.


    A hint of sorrow seeped into Mark¡¯s eyes as he gazed at her, filled with affection. ¡°Do you have to leave?¡± he asked.


    Josie spoke calmly. ¡°I¡¯m twenty-four, almost twenty-five now, and I¡¯m fully capable of being independent. Moreover, I have yet to admit that I am Liana Olsen. It¡¯s not right tobel me so quickly.¡± Josie was stating her stand outright.


    The atmosphere became tense for a moment. Laura, attempting to defuse the situation, spoke up. ¡°How about this,¡± she suggested, ¡°I¡¯ll help Leanne find a ce to stay. Father, you don¡¯t need to worry.¡±


    Mark didn¡¯t voice approval or disapproval. Clearly, he was displeased with Josie¡¯s decision.


    Josie didn¡¯t linger for long and headed straight out of the study. Laura followed closely behind, not quite understanding. ¡°Why insist on leaving? You know this will upset them, even if you are Liana Olsen.¡±


    Josie moved with an air of confidence. ¡°I can¡¯t control whether they¡¯re happy or not. I just want to make those close to me happy.¡±


    The words Grape spoke today truly broke her heart. Josie couldn¡¯t afford to worry about everything else.


    The underlying message in Josie¡¯s words left Laura puzzled. ¡°Are you referring to¡­ Grape?¡±


    ¡°Um, given our rtionship, I didn¡¯t want to hide it from you. But regarding Grape, I don¡¯t want the Olsens to know. I hope you could help me keep it a secret.¡±


    Laura¡¯s brow furrowed then rxed, she had never mentioned it before because she assumed the Olsen family had already known about Grape.


    So it turned out, they had no idea¡­


    Upon learning that Josie had agreed, Juliette immediately gave her a call. ¡°We¡¯ll be working together from now on. I look forward to a pleasant coboration,¡± she said.


    Josie pursed her lips. ¡°It¡¯s an honor.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m curious, why did you suddenly decide to take over?¡±


    Josie joked, ¡°I¡¯ve beenpletely won over by your charismatic personality.¡±


    Juliette chuckled, and they exchanged a few pleasantries before ending the call.


    Josie had packed up half of her belongings, though there wasn¡¯t much to begin with. Most of the items here belonged to the Olsen family, which she had no intention of taking with her.


    The door echoed with a knock, and udia¡¯s voice came through. ¡°Leanne, may Ie in?¡±


    Josie paused for a moment. ¡°Sure.¡±


    udia held a pot of tea and gently suggested, ¡°Looking at the sun outside, it¡¯s a hot summer. How about some peppermint tea?¡±


    ¡°Have a seat.¡±

 Chapter 1276

    The peppermint tea was personally brewed by udia, who generously added a variety of herbs to it. The resulting drink was refreshingly sweet with a pleasant aftertaste.


    ¡°Do you remember the backyard plot? After the . incident two years ago, the house was leveled and turned into a vegetable garden. I¡¯ve nted quite a few traditional medicines there for health maintenance,¡± udia uttered calmly, a faint smile ying on her lips.


    Josie lowered her gaze. ¡°That¡¯s nice. That ce should have been leveled long ago.¡±


    ¡°This was the first thing he did after waking up. When he made this decision, I knew he had already let go.¡±


    Josie wasn¡¯t oblivious, but she was just somewhat resistant. If he had truly let go, why didn¡¯t hee to see me at the airport two years ago?


    Josie then teased lightly, ¡°Let go of what?¡±


    ¡°About our past obsessions. Leanne, we were too radical back then. We made mistakes, and while it¡¯s impossible to ask you not to take it to heart, I want to suggest that we heal our wounds together, okay?¡± udia was cautious andcked confidence, which was uncharacteristic of her.


    Josie understood her well, and she knew that udia wouldn¡¯t utter such words unless it was absolutely necessary.


    Letting out a soft sigh, Josie said, ¡°In one¡¯s lifetime, perhaps it could heal.¡±


    udia furrowed her brows. When she was about to speak, Josie interrupted her by asking, ¡°By the way, where is Nathan?¡±


    udia was taken aback for a moment when Josie suddenly asked about Nathan. However, she still responded, ¡°He returned to Atharia two years ago.¡±


    With a smile that wasn¡¯t quite a smile, Josie gave a slight nod. She seems oblivious to where the problem lies. Had I been the one to visit her two years ago instead of Nathan, perhaps her wounds would have healed by now?


    udia followed her gaze, whichnded on the half-packed suitcase on the floor. The items inside were sparse, giving off a sense of destion.


    ¡°Put it away,¡± udia said.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Both Mark and I hope that you can stay at Olsen Residence. It would be better for both you and us.¡±


    Josie understood and raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°You¡¯re threatening me.¡±


    ¡°Is this what you call a threat?¡± udia raised an eyebrow in response. ¡°For it to be a threat, I would need something to hit where it hurts, and I haven¡¯t even said anything yet.¡±


    That meant there was more toe. Josie¡¯s lips were tightly pursed as she waited.


    ¡°Paul followed Dexter back to Wavery, didn¡¯t he?¡±


    Josie suddenly stood up, her face filled with disbelief. udia is actually using Pop to threaten me!


    ¡°Don¡¯t be nervous. I have no other intentions. I¡¯ve heard about everything you¡¯ve been through in Rivodia. Paul has Alzheimer¡¯s disease, and on top of that, Arnold got him hooked on drugs. Times have been tough,¡± udia said.


    Josie clenched her fists tightly, taking a deep breath. ¡°The Olsen family is powerful and influential. Crushing him would be as simple as crushing an ant, but if you mess with him, it will bring you no benefits.¡±


    udia nced at her, then brought her hands together in prayer toward the window. ¡°Hallelujah.¡±


    ¡°Your misunderstanding of us runs deep. Since we found out about this, we never nned to do anything to him,¡± udia said.


    Josie remained silent.


    ¡°The Olsen family has been established in Wavery for many years, and we have some influence. Otherwise, we wouldn¡¯t have been able to rescue you from Arnold,¡± udia said casually. ¡°We¡¯ve managed to find the medicine that Paul needs these past few days. It should be able to extend his life for a while and alleviate his pain.¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    The two exchanged nces across the room. Josie¡¯s eyebrows were knitted tightly, and she was finding it hard to believe udia¡¯s words. ¡°What¡¯s the catch?¡±


    Josie had long understood that there were no gifts without strings attached. Everything had a hidden price.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite simple for you. You just need to stay with the Olsen family,¡± udia uttered.

 Chapter 1277

    Josie turned her face away, not responding immediately. However, the rise and fall of her chest had already betrayed her emotions. As it turns out, this has been the n from the very beginning.


    ¡°As long as you stay, we will take care of all the treatment and care for Paul,¡± said udia. ¡°Dexter has personally guaranteed. As long as you agree, there will be no issues on his end.¡±


    After a long silence, Josie finally said, ¡°I want to know something. If I hadn¡¯t mentioned leaving today, would you still have said all this?¡±


    udia paused, her mind turning over the information. ¡°Indeed, I only found the medicine these past few days. I didn¡¯t tell you earlier because I was afraid you¡¯d be disappointed-¡°


    Unexpectedly, Josie interrupted her by asking, ¡°If you¡¯re using these threats to make me stay, how could I dare to entrust him to you?¡±


    ¡°Leanne-¡°


    ¡°I must admit that your offer is quite tempting. It¡¯s tempting enough that Ick the confidence to refuse. Dexter has always encouraged me to stay with the Olsen family. Perhaps he considered this as well. However, the reality of it all still leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.¡±


    Those firm words, spoken with resounding rity, pierced udia¡¯s heart and made her lips quiver. She wanted to exin, yet she didn¡¯t know how to.


    After a moment, udia reached out, her fingers clutching the corner of Josie¡¯s clothing. She gave it a gentle shake and said, ¡°Leanne, I know you¡¯re considerate toward the man who raised you for many years, but your biological father is here. Can you show him some understanding as well?¡±


    Josie was taken aback by her actions. Perhaps it was her tone that was too soft, too pitiful. Unconsciously, her stern expression softened. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Two years¡­ As you¡¯re aware, Mark has been getting on in years, and his health has been progressively declining over these two years. Each day is precious. So, we thought it would be a good idea to have Paul move in with us. It seems like the best solution,¡± udia said.


    To Josie¡¯s surprise, such was the intention behind the actions.


    Josie¡¯s aloofness hadpletely vanished without her realizing it. Her gaze fell on the hand that was gripping her cor.


    She almost forgot that the woman before her was her biological mother, after all.


    Overwhelmed by emotions, Josie returned to her seat. ¡°Give me some time to think about it,¡± she said.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    udia immediately curved her lips into a smile. ¡°No rush. We can wait.¡±


    After that, the door to the room was gently closed.


    They were capable of waiting, but it wasn¡¯t certain if Paul could. Dexter might not have said it outright, but Josie understood that Paul¡¯s health was likely not in the best condition.


    Moreover, even if she agreed, she still had to get through to Justin.


    With that in mind, Josie made a phone call.


    After a while, the other end of the line picked up. The voice was groggy, likely due to being roused from sleep. ¡°Jo.¡±


    Josie closed her eyes and held her patience for a moment before he couldn¡¯t resist any longer. ¡°Did you reveal Paul¡¯s matters to the Olsen family?¡±


    There was a moment of silence on the other end, followed by the sound of someone shifting. In anguid tone, the person said, ¡°Thest time I went to Olsen Residence, it was to discuss this matter. Emotionally and rationally, it¡¯s the best arrangement.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s the best arrangement, isn¡¯t it? You informed everyone, and I¡¯m thest to know.¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Dexter cleared his throat. ¡°My people have joined forces with the Olsen family in the past few days to locate the source of the medicine. I didn¡¯t hide it from you on purpose.¡±


    Was udia telling me the truth? Josie thought about the situation before asking, ¡°Their stiption is for me to stay at Olsen Residence.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    ¡°You make it sound so simple, but what about Grape?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll stay with me,¡± Dexter said with a lightugh. ¡°I am capable of providing for a child.¡±


    Josie felt an urge to punch him. ¡°I¡¯m starting to understand it. All of this you¡¯ve done isn¡¯t all just for custody rights, is it?¡±


    Dexter replied in anguid manner, ¡°Would you believe me if I said it was all for you?¡±

 Chapter 1278

    Josie didn¡¯t believe it, yet she felt it was something he could have done. ¡°You still haven¡¯t woken up?¡±


    With a soft chuckle over the phone, Dexter said, ¡°I was busy dealing with some matters until noon, and I only managed to get two hours of sleep.¡±


    Josie couldn¡¯t help but recall his beastly behavior in bed, leaving no trace of sympathy for him. ¡°Serve you right.¡±


    ¡°Jo, Josephine¡¯s father has been released,¡± Dexter suddenly whispered.


    ¡°Why?¡± Josie¡¯s attempt to pour another cup of peppermint tea came to an abrupt halt. She was taken aback. The evidence of corruption should be irrefutable before an investigation is initiated. How could anyone possibly be released unscathed?


    ¡°Do you remember Summer? She was in cahoots with Arnold and managed to get involved with someone at the state level. I¡¯m not surprised that things have escted to this point.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s absurd that he¡¯s just released like this.¡±


    ¡°Officially, they say he¡¯s suspended pending an investigation, but with his daughter involved, it¡¯s unlikely he would be let off the hook easily. So even though you¡¯re in Wavery now, you must always be mindful of your safety.¡±


    Dexter rose, his sleepinesspletely gone. From a distance, the distinct click of a lighter could be heard.


    ¡°I understand your concerns about my status. Hence, the Olsen family is the most visible source of security for you.¡±


    At this point, Josie understood. Even if she was reluctant to admit it, she had no choice but to ept it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bnce out the pros and cons.¡±


    She sat there for a while, not uttering a word, merely staring nkly at the peppermint tea before her. Time had passed, and the tea had grown somewhat cold. The herbs in the water resembled floating duckweed.


    ¡°Send Paul over here and make sure Justin stays by his side. That way, he¡¯ll feel more at ease,¡± Josie said.


    Dexter paused in his smoking, seemingly surprised that she agreed so readily. ¡°He probably has some prejudices against you.¡±Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Josie tilted her head back, suddenly letting out a scoff. ¡°Forget about him¡­ Even a random passerby would have prejudices against me.¡±


    An ordinary woman, who could hardly be called a daughter of an elite family, had managed to offend everyone she could offend in Wavery a few years ago. Therefore, she didn¡¯t mind what Justin thought about her.


    Halfway through his cigarette, Dexter heard an apologetic voice from a staff member on his end. ¡°Mr. Russell, we still have something this afternoon-¡°


    Josie didn¡¯t wait to hear the end, immediately hanging up the phone.


    On a bright autumn day, bathed in the perfect warmth of the sun, one could already sense the solitude and mncholy brought about by the approaching winter.


    In her mind, she once again saw the airport from two years ago, where Nathan had handed her a card. ¡°Ten million. It¡¯s from udia. She insists that you take good care of yourself when you¡¯re out there.¡±


    She remembered she had broken that card, leaving it scattered on the ground.


    The sound of knocking interrupted Josie¡¯s train of thought. It was Emily, the one who took care of her daily needs, standing there apologetically. ¡°Ms. Olsen, Mrs. Olsen sent me to clean your room,¡± she said.


    Josie leisurely lifted her gaze, casually raising her hand with a flick.


    Emily approached her and said, ¡°Yes, Ms. Olsen?¡±


    ¡°Emily, how long have you been staying with the Olsen family?¡±


    ¡°I came here after I graduated. It¡¯s been three years.¡±


    Josie seemed to grasp the idea, but notpletely. Looking at Emily, who was quite young, she said, ¡°Working as a servant in a wealthy household, that¡¯s a burgeoning profession, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°I suppose so¡­¡±


    ¡°Find a way to help me find a copy of Mark¡¯s medical report,¡± Josie requested.


    Emily gasped. ¡°Ms. Olsen, you must be out of your mind. That¡¯s-¡°


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Mark? He¡¯s my father, after all. I¡¯m concerned about his health, but he refuses to tell me the truth. I can only ask for your help to fulfill my duty as a devoted child.¡± Josie seemed calm andposed even when she lied.


    Emily was terrified. ¡°If they find out, I¡¯m going to get fired.¡±


    ¡°As long as you can find it, I¡¯ll give you an amount.¡±

 Chapter 1279

    The project that the Olsen family and Witherspoon Group coborated on was named Serenity Project.


    The project team had heard rumors of a new partner. Everyone had spected it would be Laura, who had long held power in the Olsen family. However, when Josie arrived, they couldn¡¯t help but feel a moment of disappointment.


    Everyone looked at each other, bewildered. They didn¡¯t recognize her. After all, she was a new face in the industry.


    Juliette was dressed in professional office attire, and she had proper makeup on. With a smile, she said, ¡°As you all know, Serenity Project is our first major project ever since we entered Wavery. We are fortunate enough to coborate with thergest real estate merchant in Wavery, the Olsen family. This is their appointed representative, Josie Warren. She is a renowned architect, both domestically and internationally. Let¡¯s give her a warm wee!¡±


    Apuse echoed within the office, yet it was clear that confusion was present. Renowned both domestically and internationally? How have we never heard of her, then?


    Josie gave a slight bow. ¡°Hello everyone, my name is Josie Warren, but you can also call me Alice.¡± She then turned around and used a marker to write on the whiteboard: Alice.


    ¡°Alice? Sumanthova¡¯s¡­¡± Everyone exchanged nces, momentarily unable to pinpoint what was amiss..


    Josie exchanged a nce with Juliette and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, I am the Alice you know of. I appreciate your future care.¡±


    The moment she extended her hand, the office erupted into a frenzy.


    ¡°Holy f*ck! It¡¯s really Alice!¡±


    ¡°Why is such a bigwig down here mingling with usmon folks all of a sudden?¡±


    ¡°I mean, who would¡¯ve thought I¡¯d get to see Alice¡¯s true face in my lifetime?¡±


    With a resigned smile, Josie raised a finger to her lips. ¡°I revealed my identity because I consider everyone here as my own. But remember, it¡¯s crucial that we keep this among ourselves.¡±


    Considering her status, the employees nodded in agreement, one after another.


    After joining the project team, everything at work went smoothly.


    There was a reason why Alice¡¯s status could attract a multitude of followers. It was due to her outstanding abilities. She was concise and efficient, and no one harbored any other thoughts about her.


    After a long time without having to work a regr job, Josie was suddenly thrust into a nine-to-five routine. She found it hard to adjust. As a result of her busy schedule, she went several days without meeting Dexter.


    In fact, she didn¡¯t even see Mark and udia.


    She would return to Olsen Residence at ten o¡¯clock, and not a soul was in sight. However, there was always a warm meal waiting for her on the table.


    One night, the housekeeper said softly, ¡°Mrs. Olsen is very fond of you.¡±


    After trying a bite of the dish, Josie¡¯s mouth was filled with a bitter taste. She responded, ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    Every day, Dexter would send updates about Paul¡¯s condition. He was then under the care of. the Olsen family. In return, she would visit the Olsen family daily. It was a form of mutual exchange.


    Over the course of a week, Josie did not respond to any of Dexter¡¯s messages.


    Juliette wasn¡¯t often at thepany, but she would asionally return to have lunch with Josie. She was a workaholic, and throughout the meal, she would inevitably talk about work. Josie would often sigh and find Juliette¡¯smitment to her work rather impressive.


    Yet one day, Juliette¡¯s words suddenly shifted to something else. ¡°How about you apany me out after dinner?¡±


    ¡°Where to?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m bringing food for my friend, who happens to be working nearby.¡±


    Josie choked on a mouthful of food. It was stuck in her throat, unable to go up or down, and she coughed for a good while.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Juliette swiftly brought over some water. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? You didn¡¯t meet my friendst time. There might be opportunities for coboration in the future, so it wouldn¡¯t hurt to meet in advance.¡±


    Josie¡¯s face turned beet red, choked up by the question. She stuttered, ¡°You can go ahead¡­ D-. Do I really need to?¡±


    Juliette gave the food box a little shake and shed a bright smile. ¡°Of course.¡±


    Ever since that day, Josie had not seen Dexter. Part of it was a deliberate avoidance. After all, she didn¡¯t want to admit that she had fallen for him.

 Chapter 1280

    Dexter had an engagement at noon, at a shooting range. When Juliette arrived, he had just finished his round.


    Josie followed closely behind Juliette. Lifting her gaze, she saw that he had hit the bullseye.


    She knew that Dexter was also a master archer. However, that day¡¯s social engagement required him to showcase these skills, sending a clear message that he was not someone to be trifled with.


    ¡°Dexter!¡±


    Juliette was observant. After a few rounds of drinks, she waited until the conversation at the table had mostly subsided before she approached.


    Dressed in a business suit, Dexter presented an impressive figure. He squinted his eyes, looking back over his shoulder.


    Juliette greeted everyone with a smile before apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the interruption at such a joyous time. I wouldn¡¯t have bothered if I wasn¡¯t genuinely concerned about Dexter¡¯s health. Please forgive me. I¡¯ll punish myself with three drinks.¡±


    Her words flowed effortlessly, leaving no room for criticism.


    The business owners present scrutinized Dexter¡¯s expression, and upon confirming that he indeed knew Juliette, they quickly gestured for the waiter to add more seats.


    Feeling the intense gaze on her, Josie wished she could dig a hole and disappear.


    Juliette had also noticed Dexter¡¯s gaze lingering on Josie. She then gulped before introducing Josie¡¯s identity.


    ¡°Dexter, your reputation precedes you. Alice has always spoken highly of you. I hope you¡¯ll look out for us in the future.¡±


    The words spoken on the scene made Josie grit her teeth in frustration. She looked up to meet Dexter¡¯s leisurely gaze. Teasingly, he asked, ¡°Has she spoken highly of me?¡±


    He was on the verge of bursting intoughter.


    Josie, fearful of being exposed, ultimately held back. She reached out her hand and said, ¡°Nice to meet you, Mr. Russell. It¡¯s an honor.¡±


    ¡°Alice, I¡¯ve heard about you. It¡¯s an even greater honor for me to meet you.¡± Dexter¡¯s voice resonated with profound meaning as he lightly sped her hand.


    On the surface, it was imperceptible. Only Josie could feel it. When he pulled back his hand, he gave hers a firm squeeze. Jerk! Pervert! Creep!


    The waiter had already brought the wine, and Juliette was about to pour it when Dexter stopped her. ¡°There¡¯s no need for drinks. What did you bring?¡±


    Everyone observed and sensed a deep bond between the two. Once the meal was over, they knew when to take their leave, providing the pair with some much-needed privacy.


    Once the others had left, Juliette chuckled softly, lowering her head to open the food container. ¡°Did you forget? I mentioned before that I would deliver your daily herbal tonics. If you eat as instructed, your health will certainly improve.¡±


    In a space shared by three people, Josie was idly fiddling with the corner of her clothes, clearly bored.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already spoken to your assistant. There¡¯s no need for further deliveries,¡± he said.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Juliette said as she took out the food. ¡°Given your discerning pte, I figured the initial dish might not be to your liking. So, I¡¯ve specially prepared another one for you. Give it a try.¡±


    It was a bowl of soup. Juliette scooped up a spoonful and brought it to Dexter¡¯s lips, her expression yful. ¡°I¡¯ve added lotus seeds, ginseng, and rosemary to it. It¡¯s sweet and delicious, all the ingredients are good for the heart. Want to give it a try?¡±


    Even though Dexter was smiling, the somberness in his eyes didn¡¯t lessen, making it hard to discern his emotions.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m not at death¡¯s door yet. You¡¯re going overboard with these supplements.¡± He quietly pushed the spoon away, his gaze lingering on Josie in his peripheral vision.


    ¡°What do you mean? The doctor has already told you that your body needs rest. It¡¯s best to use some nourishing medicinal herbs regrly. Have you forgotten the time before the New Year when you were so breathless that you almost fainted and no one noticed?¡±


    The moment thetter half of the sentence was spoken, a sharp glint shed in Dexter¡¯s eyes. Without hesitation, he turned his gaze toward Josie. Thetter furrowed her brows, looking at him with an expression that was both harmless and puzzled.


    ¡°I¡¯m alive, aren¡¯t I?¡± His tone became indifferent..


    ¡°So, you must take good care of yourself. Come on, drink up,¡± Juliette said, almost in a yful, flirtatious tone.


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