《Sweet Mischief鈥檚 Rollercoaster Romance》 Chapter 1 Chapter 1 The July sun was scorching hot, the heat so intense it was suffocating The Inn Family¡¯s mansion ¡°Dad, what are you talking about, you¡¯re asking me to get mamed? Are you so broke that you need me to marry for wealth? Aren¡¯t you afraid of beingughed at? Where¡¯s your conscience¡± Ma, who just came home from vacation, received incredible news. She questioned her father three times in a row. Who would dare to take her as a wife? On hearing her daughters words, Madeon lightly patted her shoulder ¡°I called you home this time to discuss this manage Looking at the pile of gifts on the ground Mis said, ¡°Mom, you¡¯ve already epted the engagement gifts. Is there any room for discussion?¡± She was just an ordinary sophomore She was called back home during her summer vacation by her mother¡¯s phone call, telling her that someone had taken a fancy to her and wanted to propose Who The famous Cedillo Group in Eldoria When Mia heard it was the Cedillo family, she sat on the sofa in shock, motionless as if struck by lightning The couple exchanged nces, both worried about their daughte ¡°Tomorrow our two families have agreed to have dinner together, you ¡°Mom, Inred some time to calm down¡± Mia got up like a robot and went back to her room in Eldonia, she could refuse any proposal, except for the one from the Cedillo family She knew the Cedillo family was a boundary. It was a prominent family in Haverbrook, Eldona, with generations in business, ¡®very famous, if the Cedillo family made a move, the economy of Eldona would shake. It was not one to be offended. Mia held her face, ¡°What should I do? This news came so suddenly. I¡¯m overwhelmed.¡± Should she be happy or sad? Mia was troubled The next day The two families met. Her youthful face was covered with red pimples. She had bad breath when the spoke, and even food stuck between her teeth She wore the most mismatched yellow scarf on her head, pink lipstick, and a different color of nail polish on each fingerten fingers, fem colors general Mia was beyond words like rustic, chubby, and ugly She was simply nauding! Aaron pointed to Mu und introduced ¡°Mr. Cedillo, this is my daughter Mia¡± Was this really her? With doubt, Hans took off his **es andpared the girl in front of him with the photo. The girl in the photo w was elegant, bright eyed. beautiful and charming How could she be the greasy haired pimple- faced, foul-smelling creature in front of him, so ugly even a ghost would finch? Thank G od his son didn¡¯te, or Andre would definitely have not agreed to this manage This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. ¡°She doesn¡¯t look like the girl in the photo? Mia held back her emotions, and acted timid and inarticte. The photo is overly beautified, and this is my real look Mr Gedilo itated Seeing his expression, Mia was delighted inside She knew the Cedillo family couldn¡¯t ept her like this. At that moment. moment, Aaron and Madison also felt that daughter¡¯s approach was very effective. That day the Cedillo family showed up suddenly and proposed in a threatening and oppressive ma, not even greing the couple a chance to refuse Today Aaron was the first to speak, Hansen, we deceived you with the photo, and we the gifts back to the Cedillo family immediately¡± No need like Mia very much Hresponsibility for it. We should stop this manage, and I will send Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Was this old man blind or what? Though Hansen was getting on in years, his spint was still as sory as ever. He got why the lexis family wouldn¡¯t want to many off their daughter, but unfortunately for them, the matchmaker¡¯s chosen bride was her Treckon August 15th is a good day for a wedding. Lets set it for the Not only did the visiti to change the Cedillo family¡¯s attitude, it actuallynded Mia in a difficult pa**ion, with even the wedding date set in stone Im willing to pet mamist, Mia told her parents ¡°Mis ¡°Madison de tuneasy about this forced marriage The meeting was supposed to be a chance for everyone to get to know each other, but only Hansen and House from the Cedillo family showed up. Not a single woman from theirs de came, and the groom Andre, didnt even bother to make a phone call. The patriarch of the Irvin family felt his daughter was being wronged ¡°We¡¯re not going through with this I call off the engagement when we get home He only had are precious daughter, and she was in the prime years of her life. Why should she have to marry Andre, who was eight years her senin, nd the Cedi family didn¡¯t even respect her) No matter how p oonful the Cedilo family was the most harm they could do was to threaten the Iron family¡¯spany if it came down to it they could give up thepany. They only had one daughter, and her happiness was at stake Madison also chimed in pa**ionately. ¡°We¡¯ve worked so hard to give our kids a better life and now cur monty has be a burden if wereed to, we can give it all up¡± Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Once the Mia¡¯s parents made up that mind, they drove home Mis was so moved that she was close to tears Hut how could she let her parents give up everything they¡¯d worked for? They might have been willing to give it all up. but what aba.cher le brother? She couldn¡¯t be that refish.. In the CEOster of Cedillo inc. Andre, the man working at his desk, gave off a cold vibe is sharp features and ruggedly handsome face gave him a stiff lock When his father walked in, Andre cast him a nce before going back to his work Hansen sat on the sofa saying, August 15th in your wedding day? Andre¡¯s hand stopped signing in its tracks He locked up at his father on the cofa Hansen picked up a cup from the table and took a sip of his coffee know you¡¯ve been holding cut all these years. Your mom wouldn¡¯t have wanted to see you unmamied¡± He continued. ¡°The wedding date is set. The bride is from the ive family and her name is Ma, a very special girl. She¡¯s 20 this year still a student¡± Hmph! 20 why eet just give her to Leo? Andre sneered, casually throwing out thisment. ¡°Andre! This is your fiancee, and you¡¯re just going to hand her off to your nephew? Every conversation with his son left Hansen fuming. No matter what he said or did. Andre always went against him. Harden would usually avoid seeking him out Andre ¡°How about 1hs, whoever arranged the mamage gets to marry her?¡± Andre Hansen was once again enraged by his son Trou have no choice this time. The dowly is mady. We¡¯re going to propose to the Irvin family I warn you, Andre, you¡¯re getting married, dead or alive¡± Andre¡¯s eyes were cy. He said coldly. Not happening!¡± Hansen swallowed staring at the defiant Andre. ¡°If you agree to get married tell you everything about her This time, it was Andre who was shocked. He knew who that her referred to. He narrowed his eyes. We you investigating her too?¡± Hansen did I denk his fresh tea. He stood up. August 15 is your wedding day. You should get ready¡± Time w, and the agreed upon wedding day amved quickly. 1/1 Chapter 3 Chapter 3 Mia¡¯s wedding gown was tailored by a renowned desi and was a hefty investment from the Cedillo Family This muti milion dor dress was undoubtedly a big show of respect to the Invin family However despite wearing such an expensive gown, Mia didn¡¯t feel partic happy She looked at herself in the minor. The red marks on her face had disappeared revealing her pretty features once more. Her skin was soft, ayer of peach fuzz on her face making her look incredibly adorable- Madison entered the room, dismissed the makeup artist with a wave and it was just mother and daughter left ¡°Mia, you shouldn¡¯t have agreed to this, she said Mia smiled rea**ungly at her mother Suddenly, I find the idea of getting married quite amus Madison gently stroked Mia¡¯s face, a flicker of quilt in her eyes. ¡°Ma, what exactly did Hansen say to you that day?¡± Mia paused, recalling the words Hansen had spoken to her ¡°Mia, do you understand the consequences of offending the Cedillo family?¡± Mia didn¡¯t ansar ¡°Your eyes sell me you¡¯re not afraid of crossing them But! ing them. But have you considered your parents Corporaten, night considered your parents and brother? You can¡¯t be too selfish, You¡¯ve heard of the Mastin Mia¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief at Hansen¡¯s words Mastin Corporation was once a century¨Cold major corporation in den Hauenbrook, Big time yer with powerful connections, it went bankrupt overnight. Some executives went to jail, while others fled overseas, too afraid to retum home The Irvin family was no match for Mastin, and Mia dared not imagine what would happen if her family received the same treatment. Unconsciously, Mia¡¯s hands clenched. After a while, she finally spoke. Hansen, can I khow why you chose me?¡± Hansen chuckled, his eyes full of hidden meanings. That¡¯s funny. When the time is right. I tell you.¡± Mia nodded 1 hope that time wille sooner ¡°So, you¡¯ve agreed to marry Andre?¡± ¡°As long as you won¡¯t hurt my family. My parents worked hard to build what they have.¡± Snapping back to reality, Mia looked at her mother¡¯s worried face and taked a cheerful smile ¡®s nothing, mom! The Cedies are really nice, well off, you and dad have nothing to worry about!¡± is another ROOM Hansen took out a stack of files and a USB drive. ¡°Everything you want is here! Andre reached out to take them, but Hansen pulled back ¡°Come find me after the wedding¡± Hansen had Andre by the throat Heswallowed hard, stood up, dofned his groom¡¯s suit, and left the room. And so, a mamage began. On the wedding day, guests wereing and going non¨Cstop. The media was kept outside, only the Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. influential ones moved an invitation from the Cedillos Andre¡¯s manage crushed countless women¡¯s dreams of marrying a rich man, He manned the Irvin family¡¯s daughter, and the levins suddenly became part of the In the bride¡¯s dressing room, Mia fet nervous about her uing new life. It was time. She picked up her wedding gown, weaning ufortabile high heels, and slowly walked towards her waiting father. Seeing the sight redness in her dads eyes, Mia felt a twinge of sadness, but she suppressed the feeling. The moment the doors opened, all the lights in the mom focused on her and Aaron Ma, arm in arm with her father walked down the petalden aisle. She nced at the man waiting for her at the end This was Ma¡¯s fest time seeing him¨CAndre, her husband Chapter 4 Chapter 4 Even though they were both in Eldona¡¯s Havenbrook their paths had never crossed Hut the name Andie, she had heard it plenty of times Andre, a 28 year¨Cold shot, sessful career wise and good locking He was an economic tycoon in Edoru, centssling countless economic lifelines him, and now he was he soon to be hubby Many revered Despite his young age, his presence was immense. His sinusness made people unintentionally tense when facing him. Right now, he looked lise he had just retumed from a business inp, didn¡¯t even have time to freshen up, and was sight off to get hitchell To him mamage seemed like a chom it seemed like he warm too thisted about the wedding either. He just went with the flow then, With this thought, a faint smile appeared on Mat¡¯s lips When her father handed her hand over to And, Mia felt her fingers were acy cold. When the nervously touched Andres hand, she felt the warmth of his palm and instinctively wanted to daw her hand back Andre reacted swiftly, immediately closing his palm, lightly gripping Mia¡¯s hand that wanted to retreal. Thereyes met. Andre¡¯s gaze swept over Mia¡¯s face, linaning on Mia¡¯s wide eyes, ha dark eyes unconsciously oppled A few secondster he turned his face away, no longer looking at her feeling the warmth from Miss Ingers, Andre couldn¡¯t help but of inwardly. He seemed like a sugar daddy to this ol And no one knew that Mia, the soon to be bride, was lost in her own world. When the priest acked ¡®De you, the bride, take this man to be yourwfuly wedded husband, to walk with him every step of life¡¯s journey, in sickness and in health, for whatever reason to love to cherish to respect, to ept to remain faithful him till death do you pan?¡± Silence fell upon the hall as soon as the priest finished speaking Muix head raped her chest heaved heavily clearly not at a normal breathing rare. Andre reminded her ¡°Answer¡± His voice was deep and powerful maic, making Mia unconsciously clench the bouquet in her hand. She looked up, her eyes full of confusion. Andre waited for a while, but still duin¡¯t her Ma¡¯s Ido¡°. Feeling the awkwardness of the stuation, Anthe unconsciously tightened his grip on Ma¡¯s hand N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. He couldn¡¯t help bui look at the bride, who was to nervous she tumed pale e nanowed his eyes if this bride danes to make a scene the Irvin family wouldn¡¯t have good days ahead. However, his gaze involuntanly fell on Ma¡¯s eyes, and her pune gaze had Andre slightly taken aback. Andre immediately reached out with his other hand, casual y tidying up Mia¡¯s hair, giving the impression to ethers that he was being affectionate, but they maintained a certain distance, Andre threatened in Miasat you space out again, not only wil the Cedillo family get embarra**ed the invin family won t have it Pasy eithe His words werel elike a wakeup call, and Mas heartbeat instantly elerated Right, this was actually a transactional wedding Ma¡¯s lips cured up in self¨Cmockery, her gaze at Andre had an added calmness. She whispered to Andre, I know thanks for the heads up The girls warm breath blew over Andie¡¯s eat her sunt invaded his nastils, making Andre¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bob, his eyes instantly darkened. Chapter 5 Chapter 5 His ears pitched slightly, then he nodded and looked up at the priest. The priest, catching Andre¡¯s gaze, immediately asked with a grin, ¡°Bride, do you take thes mant death do you part 1 do Mia answered loudly this time, pecking cut the words like a chicken pocking at grale The moment she spoke, the tension in the Hansen and the Ivins finally eased The prest then asked the groom, ¡°Geom, do you take this woman till death do you part?¡± ¡°I de ¡°His words sounded firm and sold to Mia¡¯s ears. She couldn¡¯t hele but lock up at the man beside her Regardless of whether this manage was a transaction of not, this man was her husband from now on! please exchange rings. The crowd broke into enthusiastic apuse. Heaning the apuse, Mia tried to ease the awkwardness by asking Andre. Do people usually dap when enchanging rings? vedre ignored her rudely grabbing her hand and forcing eng onto her ring finger. Mis¡¯s impression of him soured instantly What a brutel When it was Mia¡¯s tum to put the ring on him, the delicentely farced it onto his felting finger. The pain made Andre nce at his vengeful bride. She was mally petty, he thought. Mia wanted to say something else to Andre, but their eyes met again His gaze was unreadable, star ng straight at her, and Mia¡¯s heart started to mistakenly thought that Andre, this sensitive man, felt aggrieved because she had put the ring on him too forcefully earlier. So, he was a man who held grudges tool As the day went by, the wedding was done That night Ma folowed the Cedillos to the old mansion. Thinking of the wedding night, Mia styly closed her eyes, nervously bang her lip. ¡°What should I do tonight¡± The door to the Endal sute was pushed open, and she nervously opened hot gis quickly getting up from the end of the best. Seeing the man who entered she swallowed hard. The thought of possibly having to share a bed with this man gave her goosebumps all over Andrewalked into the room, heading towards Ma Mia backed away in fear Lets lets get to know each other first. I¡¯m Ma, twenty, Il be a sophomore after the summet ¡°What exactly did you use to convince him?¡± Andre¡¯s gaze was filed with hostility, staring at the girl in front of him in his haste to get the documents from his father he agreed to the wedding. But how did this unremarkable qul convince the stubbom old man to marry him, when so many others wanted to matry into the Cedillo family? Mia was stunned. ¡°Your words are all over the ce i dont understand what you¡¯re saying¡± N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Andie continued on his own. Don¡¯t covet what¡¯s not your Ma. Dont think marrying into the Ced lmly means you can rest easy. I¡¯s quite the opposite.¡± Mia understood this time, he suspected her of scheming to many him bymcing Hansen Tadour up the misunderstanding. She exined ¡°Andre, were you also forced? Because I was A smirk appeared at the corner of Andre¡¯s mouth. Today, the Inin family secured atst fifteen construction projects. And you dare say you were faced¡± His attitude enraped Ma She was trying to exin in good faith but didn¡¯t get his understanding ¡°Andre, are you mocking my dad for using my it werent for your dad forcing me, my dad would other starve than marry me off to your family.¡± mamage for his own gain? Let me tell you, if Chapter 6 Chapter 6 ¡°Alright, let¡¯s see if the bin family wille crying to me when they hit rock bottom Andre grabbed his phone, ready to issue amand to his a**istant, Buy out the Irvin family! ¡°Ba**, which Inin family you¡¯re talking about?¡± ¡°The one that belongs to my father¨Cinw, Andre said, ¡®ancing of Mia: On the right of their wedding, Mia was so pissed off the let, like punching Andre. She was fuming, her temper ring. ¡°And you are such an a**hole¡± You He was taken aback. He didn¡¯t expect her to let slip a swear word Mia, in her evening dress for greeting guests, stormed out of the bridal room. She asked a servant she bumped into. ¡°Where¡¯s Hansen?¡± Her abruptness startled him, In his bedroom, belove She asked again. Where is Hansens hedmom? The servant ported in a direction. Just then, ady of some importance appeared from around theer. From her age and dess, Ma know this was Andre¡¯s sister inw Naomi Namsaid to the servant ¡°You can leave now The servant bowed and left Mis looked at Naomi, and she couldn¡¯t bring herself to call her sister¨Cinw. This moman was three years older than her own mother. Naomi approached Mia sizing her up. ¡°What do you need from Hansen ¡°He didn¡¯t keep his word.¡± Naomi nced at Audie who came out after her gaze shifting beten the couple. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you two be in your room on your wedding night, or do you want everyone to know your business? Naomi sternly reproached Mus, and Andh Andre sted, ¡®None of your business!! Naomis face fel al 5 rebuttal, and she stormed off in a hull. Mia headed in the direction the servant had pointed earlier. She ran into the butler at Hansen¡¯s Door The butler saw Ma and Andre, ¡°Mr. Andre, Ms. Mia, shouldn¡® you be in your wedding chamber? What brings you here?¡± Mia said, ¡°I want to see Hansen He didn¡¯t keep his promise.¡± ¡°He has retired for the right. Whatever dis cant wait till tomanow?¡± Just then, a vace came from the mom, ¡°Show them into the study 4 The minutes ater Hansen appeared in his study in his robe, with the newlyweds seated on the couch Ma was fuming, but Andre was watching her, his ges narrowed He couldn¡¯t figure out why her immediate reaction upon leaming that he was going to buy cut the sin family was to confront Hansen ¡°What do you want?¡® Mis got up and walked over to Hansen, ¡°Hansen, you promised me that the Cedillo family would never Hansen nced at the man sitting calmly on the couch. Knowing his son¡¯s character, he had a hunch about what was going on ¡°You leave us for a moment I need to talk to Andre! Mia was sent away before she could say anything else. She was not being difficult, but that was about her family. She didn¡¯t want to make unnecessary sacfices She mamed into the Gerdillo Family and the ¡°Hansen, if you can¡¯t keep your promise then I can¡¯t keep mine¡± N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. ¡°Leave Hansen was angry Mia clinched her fats, then tumed and left In the study, Henson told Andre, Cancel your order. You are not to harm the levin family ¡°Father, what kind of din does she have on you? Andreasked Hansen replied ¡°Andre, don¡¯t make me repeat myself I find out poute targeting the sin farmly again, I will not go easy on you Seeing his falluv so stem aroused Andres cumosity. Ton I¡¯m caus more counous What kind of secret are you hiding from met Chapter 7 Chapter 7 Hedoled his a**istant in front of his father and called off the acquistion n for the Iniin family Andre stood up and said, ¡°Don¡¯t think I would be nice to her. She doesn¡¯t deserve it¡¯ After saying this, Andre left his father¡¯s study. As hipped out, he saw a woman Iraning against the wall waiting. Mia was also looking at him, her eyes filled with eshence and endurance He nced at her and walked away. Mia stepped into the study, ¡°Grandpa Hansen, you once said, as long as I marry into this family¡¯ Hansen didn¡¯t let Ma finish, he said coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t bring up this matter at home anymore. The issue with This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. the Irvin family has been resolved, Andre won¡¯t do such a thing again¡± As he was about to leave, Mia blocked his way. ¡°A verbal promise is not enough I need a written guarantee At these words, the butler was stunned. Was che doubting the old man¡¯s words? No one liked to be questioned, especially not a man ke Hansen. A young woman demanding a written guarantee, his face darkened. The butler quickly knowing the old man¡¯s temper was not good, fearing he wouldsh out at his new daughter-inw and drove her away. ¡°Ms Ma, the old man always keeps his promises You¡¯ll understand in time. He said he will protect the Irvin family, and he won¡¯t do anything to harm them. We are like family, there¡¯s no need to bring a willen guarantee up again¡± The butler finished and signaled Mia with his eyes not to speak anymore, Mia took the butler¡¯s advice and kept quiet. Hansen stormed out of the study. Back in his bedroom, he grumbled angrily. If it wasn¡¯t for the necessity, why on earth would the Cedillo family want such a The butler tried to soothe Grandpa Hansen, Calm down, sir. Ms. Ma is young and outspoken. We all know why she¡¯s married into the Cedillo family. From her perspective, her actions are understandable. After all, until today, she was a child of the un family. If Mr Andie nned to acquire the livin family on his wedding night, it¡¯s natural she would be womed and a bit rash The words somewhat cooled Grandpa Hansen¡¯s anger. He ordered. ¡°Have someone watch their mom, I don¡¯t want anything else happening tonight¡± ¡°Understood Mis knew she had angered Hansen, but she was still womed What if, over time, the Cedillo family forgets their pr promise But, she knew she couldn¡¯t go to Grandpa As Mia was walking, she suddenly heard anquing downstairs. Curious, she walked to the railing to look down It was Andre He was trying to leave. The butler and his brother, Bruce, was stopping him. ¡°Mr. Andre, it¡¯s your wedding night, you should be with your wife. Leaving on your wedding night is bad luck.¡± The butler had just heard from a ser vant that Andre was leaving, she rushed over to stop him. Bruce happened to be going out and ran into Andre, ¡°Andre, you¡¯re in yourte twenties, can¡¯t you stop being so immature? Mia is your wife and you need to take responsibility for her if you leave tonight, how is she supposed to face cryone in the family tomanow ¡°You know I don¡¯t know the full story about this wedding I¡¯m only following orders to get mamed. I didn¡¯t receive any order to consummate the manage. Please stop trying to keep me here. You can¡¯t stop me As Andre prepared to leave, Bruce stopped him again, ¡°Mu is watching you from the second floor Andre turned his head and saw a girl in a small dress looking at him, his Broat bobbing. He then walked past Bruce without a word and left the old house of the Cedillo family Chapter 8 Chapter 8 He was showing Mia with his actions just how much he couldn¡¯t stand her Right now, in the Cedillo family, her father¨Cinw had started to despise hot and her husband was giving her the cold shoulder. She sighed fivedly and went back to her new home The decorations in the house were nothing short of a mockery to Ma. She died the sofa abil, didint touch anything else, and just flopped down on it to rest Bruce went back to his room where his wife Naomi was a ready in bed ¡°Naomi, why don¡¯t you go keep Miaepany? She just mamed into our family, and Andre¡¯s already a ving her the cold shoulder. If word gets out, people will think our family doesn¡¯t know how to treat people properly¡± Naomh was never happy with this marriage in the first ce. She tried to speak up against it, but nobody in the family listened to her ¡®She couldn¡¯t even keep her own husband I¡¯m not going¡± Naom, you re her sister inw, and the matriarch of the Ce family. You¡¯re the best person to go ¡°Do you really think the deserves to marry into our family after ad her shameless behunice? Naomi switched off the light. ¡°Just go to sleep That night. Andre drove himself to Maplewood Estates Maplewood Estates was his real home. He usually Ived alone there, spending less than ten days a year in the old family house He wasn¡¯tfortabile staying in the old house so heches to go back to his own home instead When he pulled up, he saw a drunk woman sing at his doorstep. bottle in hand gazing dazedly at his car lights When the car lights went off, Andre stepped out. He walked up to her. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± By the time Jillian saw him, she was already crying ¡°Why why did you marry her?¡± Her tears were relling down her face, her eyes red and swolen locked like she¡¯d been crying for a while Jillian was weaning a red dress, blocking his doorstop. She asked him weakly, Andre, tell me¡± She was crying so hard that she seemed to have lost all her strength, even the strength to stand up Andre ¡®You¡¯re drunk ¡°No, I¡¯m not Andie You know I¡¯ve loved you for 15 years in the woman who¡¯s been by your side the longest. I always thought if you were to get married, it would be to me. Why he is really just because she¡¯s younger than me?¡± Andre went up the steps, bent down to pick her up, and caned her into Maplewood Estate Jillian was still talking. ¡°You¡¯re not like that. Tell m Andre put her on the s. Sober up, then leave¡± ¡°Not why you momed her. You don¡¯t love here you love me, right? We you rurring away because fee hit the nail on the ad? And if you loved her tonight would be your wedding night, and you wouldn¡¯t be here alone. If you loved her, you would have brought her here, not to the old family house! Jillian was crying her heart out. The been waiting for you for 15 yrs. I know you. Only a woman who N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. can live in your Maplewood Estates is someone you truly acknowledge. Andie, that woman should be me. But why did you marry her? Who is she, and why did she interline with our rtionship? When Jillian found out Andre was getting married, her father was word she would cause a scene at the wedding, so he locked her at home until waste. Jillian couldn¡¯t ept the fact that the man she loved was me?ying someone else Andre stared at her this woman sitting at his feet, crying her heart out. He didn¡¯t have answers to any of the questions she was asking Atst, he dialed the number for the Marshal family ¡°She¡¯s here at my ce, blind chunk Can you come pick her up?¡± Chapter 9 Chapter 9 Tm not leaving. I want to be with you. Andre, can we get out of here? Why, why are you marrying her, why?¡± Jilian ended up sorbing until she was exhausted, looking vacant When folks from the Marshal family came, she still didn¡¯t want to leave. In the end. And had to camy her out and hand he ever to them, ¡°Please take good cam of b That night, Andre Had a splitting headache. He went to his study, leafing through the documents he got from his dad. He wasn¡¯t sure if he was doing the right thing marrying a girl he had never met before for these documents. ¡°We¡¯re just using each other Thinking like this his heart didn¡¯t hurt as much, Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. The next moming When Ma got up to eat someone pa**ed her a bowl of water when she was at the dining table. She had no clue what was going on. Naomi watched her and sneered, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t even know this They do inn TV Don¡¯t you watch TV?¡± Mia seeing someone mocking her clenched her fiets and told here to bear it. Then, the watched Numisbehavior and slowly mimicked her actions Full of contempt Naomi muttered. Compared to Jillian, she is miles away from being good enoug How could he choose her in the end?¡± Bruce coughed to remind his wide, ¡°Mis doesn¡¯t understand. As the elder sister inw, you should teach her, not ¡°Cant I make aparison?! Naomisat in her seat looking at Mia with a face full of displeasure, if someone introduced a grilike this to my son, I would fant on the spot ¡°That¡¯s enough¡± Bruce was not a fool. He understood his wifes insinuations. Wasn¡¯t Maomi saying that Hansen and his choice of wife for Andre were no good? ¡°You¡¯re just Andie¡¯s sister-inw, you have no ce to medde in Anche¡¯s manage¡± Brice was fuming first thing in the moming Hansen slowly walked in, ¡°What are you guys aquing about?¡± He had a good night¡¯s not, his mood was much better and he was not angry about May¡¯s incident the night before After sitting down and seg no one next to Mu, he asked, ¡°a, where is Andre? Go call him down for breakfast¡± Mia looked at the empty seat meat to her How was she supposed to say Andre wasn¡¯t at home? The butler understac Mia¡¯s predicament, and stepped in to exin, ¡°Mi Andre was not at home since ¡°What Going to the office on his wedding night? Didnt i ask you to keep an eye on him why didn¡¯t anyone Sell mest night? Are you guys defying me?¡¯ Hansen was funcus after hearing this Naomi sarcastically said, ¡°if you don¡¯t like the person next to you, you¡¯d want to stay as far away as possible, right Bruce was anory, ¡°Shutup.¡± The bride just arrived the day before, she hadn¡¯t said a word yet she was bullied to this extent Bruce couldnt stand his wife¡¯s behaviot he grabbed Naomi and left the dining table Hansen mmed the tacle, ¡®Call Andre bark me is too reck ¡°Yes.or¡± Back in the bed. Bruce pushed his wife away pointing at Naomi, and said, ¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking You don¡¯t ept it, you¡¯re not satisfied, but you¡¯re just Andr¨¦s sister inw, and you have no right to interfere in Andre¡¯s manage! And don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re nning for our son, whatever Lig wards to do in the future, that¡¯s Leo¡¯s business, you can¡¯t choose his life path for him.¡± ¡°What do you mean, exin yourself. What ns do have Bruce, Ive been mamed to you for 20 years, and I¡¯m not even as important as Mia wha fist anved ¡°Nonsense¡± Bruce gritted his teeth His raised hand almostnded on Naomis face. Chapter 10 Chapter 10 He was all kinds of pissed, warning Naomi, If Thear that kind of tak again, you¡¯ll have to deal with the consequences!¡± As Bruce stormed off, Naomi broke down in tears. This was all because of Mia if it weren¡¯t for Mia, her husband wouldn¡¯t be losing his temper with hed Ma was The reason Naomi¡¯s husband was treating her ke cap. Will Ene then, she wasn¡¯t going to y nice either. Meanwhile, Ma was waiting for her husband down in the dining room. After what felt like forever, she didn¡¯t see Andre, but someone unexpected showed up ¨C Jin Spotting Jillian, Mia tumed to Hansen in confusion, ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡± Hansen was in a foul mood, but due to the rtionship between the Marshal and Cedillo families, he had to show pect to lian. He still managed to say ¡°Jillian, didn¡¯t expect to see you here. Have a seat¡° Onor Jillian entered the room, she immediately noticed Mia sitting next to Hansen. She¡¯s the only unfamiliar face in the Cedillo family and Jillian guessed at once that she was Andres wife Suppressing a smile, she sat on the couch and said ¡°Hilcame to see Nami ¡°Then let Mia go and fetch her Hansen was a sharp quy. Even though Jillian had visited the Cotillo family many times, he¡¯d never let her go upstairs. Her ce was downstairs. His words always subtly hinted at his stance Letting Mago fetch her was his way of telling Jilian, Mia was a part of the Cedillo family Mis quickly picked up on Hansen¡¯s hint. She stood saying, ¡°I¡¯ll go get Naomi.¡± Hansen was pleased. He smiled and nodded, ¡°Go ahead kiddo. When Mia found Naomi her eyes were still red from crying. ¡°Ms. Jn is downstairs looking for you¡± Hearing Jillian¡¯s name Naomi¡¯s eyes lit She then purposefully said to Mia, ¡®Oh Jilian, she¡¯s probably looking for Andre. She was Ander¡¯s¡­ Well, never mind. Andre¡¯s mamed now. Let bygones be bygones Hearing this, Mia got the picture Jillian was her husband¡¯s ex lover and Hansen sending her upstairs was his way of telling Jillian who Andre¡¯s wife really was. Ma smiled, remembering Naomi¡¯s insults from the morning. She had decided to fight back. She said to Naomi, ¡°Who doesn¡¯t have a past night? Thatside¡± Mia won this round. Naomi, with a sour expression, pa**ed Mia on her way downstairs. Once there she asked Jillian, ¡°Uilkan, are you here to see Andre? He wasn¡¯t homest night¡± Naomi asked the question knowing it would piss off Hansen, but she was desperate to win, just to embarra** Mu N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Jillian saw night through Naomi¡¯s intentions know Andre wasn¡¯t homest night. We stayed the night at Maplewood Estates¡± The room fell silent at her words. She had spent the night with the groom, while the bride was alone I wasughable Everyone understood it was a jab at Mia. What did it matter if she had mamed Andre? On their wedding night, the one by his side was Jillian Mis seemed unfazed, but Hansen¡¯s face darkened. Naomi, on the other hand was gloating She sat down on the couch, warmly taking Jillian¡¯s hand. ¡°You spent the night together so howe you didn¡¯t Hansen had no idea what had happened the previous night, but from Jillian¡¯s words, he understood one thing¨Cveryone knew that the person who had spent the night with the groom was Jillian Chapter 11 Chapter 11 He asked the butler senously, ¡°Where¡¯s Andre?¡± ¡°Hansen I can¡¯t reach him on the phone ¡® Hansen, ¡°That ungrateful bra Just then, a Rolls Royce pulled up in the front yard. A man with a cold expression and a tall, slender figure stepped out, shut the car door and walked into the living Hansen looked at him as he returned. Before he could speak, Naomi stood up and asked with a smile, ¡°You were with Julian all night but didn¡¯te back with her this morning You two are ying hide and seek or what? Are you afraid we will pick on her if she¡¯s here?¡± Andre nced at Jillian, then at Ma, who was sing indifferently in the living room, as if all this was none of her business She mocked herself internally. Sure enough, manying into a wealthy family was like sinking into the sea Conscience became meaningless. And she j mamed, and her love nval had already shown up. This Naomi really had no moralpa** Wealthy families were such a mess! Hansen¡¯s face was as ck as coal today, ¡®Butler show the quest out. It¡¯s Mr. Andre¡¯s first day of manage, and he and Mia need to pray for their mother. its not convenient to have outsiders here.¡± Jillian, ¡°Hamm, I can leave by mys Naomi, ¡°Dad, Jillian isnt an outside she ¡°So, you want to leave the Cedillo famly 1007 Hansen red at Naomi, if you want to leave, no one will stop you. Butter, show the guest out!¡± Ye The butler walked up to Jillian, Ms. Jan, I¡¯ll show you out Naomi, who had openly challenged Hansen, was also scared by his words. Hansens mood was unpredictable and he really could¡¯ve kicked her out if he was displeased She didn¡¯t dare to keep Jihan any longer and could only match as she was escorted out by the butler Jin stil wamed Andre to speak up and ask her to stay, but And remained silent, and she left disappointed Since they had to pay respects to the future mother inw, they had to diss appropriately. Mia and Andre went upstairs to change When they were alone again, Ma feminded herself, if he doesn¡¯t mess with me, I won¡¯t mess with him. But if he does, i will delinmely fightback ¡°Your presence makes the authee stink.¡± Mia sill live on Earth Maybe you should consider moving to another so my smell won¡¯t bother you For the first time, she showed her sarcasm in front of the Cedillo family. This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. Andre looked straight at her ¡°Ma, I really don¡¯t want to see you ¡°You can choose to donate your retinas guarantee you wont seeme for the rest of your life¡± A sarcastic and sharp tongued girl was not likable. She didn¡¯t me herself butted to make Andre change. Since Andre didn¡¯t her and she didn¡¯t like Andre why should she try to please him? was this bad now it was only going to get worse The est person Mia retaliated against was Andre Andre sneered, ¡°So this is your true face ¡°You¡¯re wrong I¡¯m still pretending You don¡¯t deserve to see my true face After Mia spoke, she stubbomly raised her head to meet Andres gaze Shemade Andre very angry, so although he seemed to be smiling. Ma felt a chill ¡°Fine, Im not good enough¡± he said Mia felt ufortable is expression always made her ate scared. But she still pretended to be unafraid on the outside A ser vant knocked on the door, reminding them to get mady. Mu quickly averted her gaze if she kept looking the was afraid her fear would show However, Andre was vity good at reading people¡¯s minds. He saw through Mia¡¯s pretense Andre Mia retorted, ¡°As long as I get my point across, that¡¯s enough¡± She Chapter 12 Chapter 12 Afterpleting the prayer ceremony for her motheriw, Maumed to her room. She paused suddenly as if struck by a thought, and turned to Andre ¡°Can we ¡°Oh, did your dad already send yo find met ¡°My dad¡°¡± Ma was surprised ¡°Did something happen at home? Andre was confused Had are sent to talk to him about the materials Andre changed the subet What do you want to talk about?¡± ¡°Just two things First, when we¡¯re at my house, let¡¯s try to art normal. Don¡¯t let my parents find out we cant stand each other and worry about me If they find not what happened in thest two days at your house, they I defely ask us to get a divorce, which is against your father¡¯s wish I don¡¯t know how your father threatened you into mamage, but linsistion droe youll have a hard time ¡°Second, we should move out I dont get along with Njem, and staying here will only deepen your family¡¯s internal conflicts. Of course, when we move out, even if you don¡¯te home at night, or get caught by the police for solicitation, as your wife, Lall personally got the price station total you out Ase, we move out you don¡¯t bother me and I won¡¯t bother No one will care if you want to be lovey dovey with Jn if necessary, Il even help you cover up ¡°Hoth things are benefoal for us, what do you think?¡± Andre squinted sizing un his wife. ¡°Ma, what makes you think I would agwe¡± ¡°Because my requests are all upsides for you¡± She took the initiative and asked ¡°Do you need time to cons der Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Andre moved closer. Ma instinctively stepped back, ¡°If you agree, just say it. Vihy are you walk ng towards me¡± ¡°You¡¯re too short to be negotiating with me¡± 1*Ma looked down at her own logs, the back of the man in front of her. If you want to refuse, just any it. There¡¯s no need for personal attacks!¡± For the first time, Andre showed a sanished amide in front of this it seemed like arguing with Ma and winning made him happy Realizing that his smie look genie, he immediately hid his smile. He coughed twice, picked up his suit jacket and headed out the door ¡°Weaning a sut jacket in the middle of summer, serves you right for calingime short ¡° The Lego behed tem defiantly retorted. Walking in thetus Andre heard her words andughed agan. As he was leaving he saw the butler cked of the door Mr. Ambe Hansen has something to let you Let him held it in. The man in a good mood respondest cold hentelly Arrogantly he stepped out of the door. He was thi in a good mood as he gut into the car Looking of the ck jacket in his hand, which he intended to wear, he tossed it aside. Upon heanng his sons exact words, Hansen fated up in anger Insolmilf The but felt helpless. Mr. Andre had left home alone of the age of thirteen and no longer feed in the old house. Due to different viewpoints on certain issues, the father son ndationshis had be increasingly datant. Other than their blood rtion, they were like the most undaman father and son The byter said ¡°That¡¯s just No one can change him.¡± He was usedly being alone, without the need for others cafe of the math of a family To him, these were probably just burdens Knowing all this, Panson was still angry How had his son turned out this way? ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have let him ?ng outside on his owIL¡± The butler said, ¡°Wr. Hansen, you can¡¯t me everything on you¡± Andre returned to thepany His a**istant immediately came in ¡°Mr Analic, you¡¯re back to work right alter your welding without even a honeymoon?¡± Andreasked, ¡°Has anyone fram the Tryin Tamly contacted you?¡± ¡°No¡± The a**istant asked, X6 you maly going to buy your father inw¡¯spany? Andre was puzzlest and surprised Why hutangnna cded him? At this point. materials Miliout falls, how could the fificem projects star? tires Jamly should have used his status to she Celikmily for Has the Innfally used ourpany¡¯s name to purchase materials from otherpanies?¡± The a**itant chock hushead ¡°Mr President, I know what yo, want to know. Tha projects yesterday. The Irvin family had canceled all their orders, which was unexpected to Andro ¡°Did they exn why¡°¡± sati was gong intel you. Strangely, the family turned all new The a**istant said, ¡°The Invin family didn¡¯t exin to the public. Some led to approach them plentely, but Aason refused¡® Andre¡¯s hand rested on his lips. What the hell is the Irwin family up to?¡± Chapter 13 Chapter 13 The intentions of the vin Lamily were til my dropped a call Afest, he didn¡¯t repnire its rumber as Ma¡¯s it was only when he picked up and heard her bright ¡°Mr. Andre¡± that he felt a headacheingen Mut ¡°Hey Old Aedir, your dad wants you toe home. He has something to talk to you about.¡± She started to calling him Old Andre Judging from his tone he didn¡¯t seen to like it Andre held the phone trying hard to contain his ange, ¡®Macal me that one more time Then Mia¡¯s volen was filed with joy repeatedly called ¡®Od Andre Old Andre, Old Ander called it there times, what are you gonna do? Come at me if you dar Andre¡¯s throat tightened, and he squinted his eyes. This woman really knew how to push his buttons. She was trying to provoke him, to get him to go home But he wouldn¡¯t budge Andre tried to calm himself down, and he hung up. Soon, Macalles again, ¡®Old Andre, and you mad? What are you mad about? I didn¡¯t even get mad when you said Thave short legs, but you¡¯re mad because i called you Did Andre? Men mesosmiside I mean, it¡¯s not like you¡¯re at a disadvantage Long called Did Andhha After all you¡¯re old enough to be my dad¡¯s peer. Or would you rather I call you neprex? Well, fine, I reluctantly call you nephew help? Hello Andr? Help? The call was ung up again Ma pulled the phone away from her ear, looking at the nk screen Shemutered to herself while What¡¯s wrong with calling yould Andre, don¡¯t you realize you¡¯re not a spring chicken anymore? I¡¯m gonna kero caling. until you can¡¯t take c anymore! Ma dialed again but Andre hung up right away She called again, and this be it went straight to volemal. Mias ghel, ¡®Wh he blocked me She went back to the Cedillo Mansion, picked up thending, and duled Andres, number. At that moment, Andre had just arved at a meeting mom Seeing a call from home, he picked it up, only to hear that annoying voice again. ¡°Hoy, nochew your dad wants you toehome for a chat, if you done momentter another call came in ¡°Mu, mough is mough Andre, is that hom you talk to your Making a call Hansen rcased angrily. He had juste downstairs to see his new daughter inw sitting alone in the living room Upon poking he found out that Mix was calling Andre, and it was all because of him. She said, ¡°had reard you want to talk to Andre, but he left. So wanted to get him toe back What a good daughter inw Hansen gently touched Ma¡¯s sincere face, looking into her invocat eyes. His affection for herdexpered And after all, she was doing this for him, as he did have something to say to Andre So. Hansen took the initiative to call Ande, but as soon as he connected, he heard his son¡¯s angry for Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. mand. His anger and up, de, poue back and apologize to Mis right now¡± Mia was startled by Hansen¡¯s loud yelling, her shoulders sightly shrinking She couldn¡¯t help but wonder what the hell dal Andre say to make Hansen so mad Chapter 14 Chapter 14 14:27 Hansen said. ¡°Andre, I need you he you here in front of me within at an hour He pointed to Ma, who was standing there looking charless. Min hang on. I have Andree back and apologize to you¡± Mia shook her head ¡°No, don¡¯t need that it was me who was not nice to him first Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Sure mough. Andre came back quickly. The moment he walked in he saw his newlywed wife hiding behind Hansen. To him, this woman was just ying the pity card in front of his dad Suddenly. Ma came up with an idea. She quickly walked up 15 him with a smile, Henry, you¡¯re back¡± Andre looked at Ma her expressions changed as fast as fpping though a book. She just called him ¡®Cidade¡± and ¡°nephew, and now the called him ¡°honey¡± Mia was ready to take the hit and ept any er?cism Stewoudt arque no matter what Andressid Hansen suul, Andre, is this how taught you to fit your ne? Andre just walked in and got scolded by the old man. He didn¡¯tin, just unhapply shrugged off Ma and sat alone on the couch, ust split you have something to say.¡± Andre locked deepy at Ma, who started to feel uneasy. She was wondering what had she done wrong why did he need to apologize to her? After all, it was her who first pissed off Andie with her sharp tanque Madi¨®n I dare 15 stay any longer. She quickly ended the conversation. We are a couple. He does reed to apologet me Dad, dont bead how that he¡¯s back, you just can tak, I¡¯m going to the bedroom She ran back to the bedroom like a scared rabilel took Mu half an hour to figure not that, in this house, the code pos off Hansen, because he was hervork. Her impukietyst night had already upset him. If the found out that she called his son nephew today she would be dead mast the would totally posoft Hansen. Apart from not upsetting Hansen, she also didn¡¯t day to realy piss off Ande Traung him was fine, but if she matekummally angry her life would be a living hell Though the somewhat understood, the reality was still hand to adapt to. She had a fery temper and could lose at any moment¡­ Suddenly, someone pushed the door with 100 much force. Ma stumbled forward a couple of steps. As she quickly stood upright, she turned around to see a man Hey Mam sed het hand to greet Andre smiling. Mr Andre?¡± Andehad neve met someoneke Mu, who could charge her attitude so fast without any hesitation. The girl in front of him made ham angry Andreained ho arm, gripping Ma¡¯s neck Sightly. ¡°Ah, you¡¯re ambushing me Mia¡¯s neck was held tight her head was forced down to us. ¡®Anh, mego Andrewalked down to her Ma¡¯s head just resting on his lower padomen She couldn¡¯t lift her head, her hands fiercely gripped Anam¡¯s wid, ¡°Tema go¡± ¡°What on earth did you say to my father?¡± Chapter 15 Chapter 15 ¡°And what did you tell your dad to make him order you to apologize to me? Ma¡¯s head was so heavy she could hamly hit her hand cleching Andre¡¯s wrist tightly Both of them were feeling awkward. Unable to determine each other¡¯s intentions. Mis roke the silence How about this, you agree to my as musts from this moming and stop calling you Old Andreor nephew. We each go our own way, sound good? And didn¡¯t respond To show her sincenty, she was the first to let go. ¡°I won¡¯t hold you anymore. You can take it as a yes when you let me go.¡± Andre squinted at the gel he was messing with,ughing coldly. You¡¯re pretty clever¡± She was indirectly making him agree. She knew she couldn¡¯t possibly hold on to him like this all day. The moment he lets go, it would mean the epted her proposal And didn¡¯t expect to be yed by a twenty year old gif He shrugged and let go of Ma, which also meant he agreed to Mia¡¯s suggestion Ma finally got what she wanted. She straightened up, streched herneck, and looked at his wrist Theral marks were deep With one hand ma**aging her neck, she kindly suggested. Your wnst should scab over by tomorrow. Maybe you could wear a different watch to cover it up?¡± The day of retuming to Mia¡¯s house came quietly. Early in the moming, she got up from the couch, tidied up early, waiting for Anche¡¯s i The moment she saw him Mia couldn¡¯t help but 1. im. ¡°Remember your i Andre ignored het just putting all the gifts prepared at home into the trunk of the car The Invin family lived in a vi in Whispersong Vige Haverbrook. It wasn¡¯t close to the Cedillo family took over an hour to drive. On the way, Mia ved her best to behave, hoping Andre would be pleased with her and wouldnt cause any troubleter Andre nced at the girl next to him while dhuing. She was behanna quite well now ¡°Andre, why are you looking at me like that?¡± Ma asked Andre ¡°Youte a real turn¨Coff¡± Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Ma smiled and held it in. In an hour, they had already reached Whispersong Wige. Following the main road into the vige they quickly saw the livin family¡¯s house Ma had good eyesight, and she immediately spotted her parents waiting at the entrance She suddenly became nervous, looking at the man beside her, wogdering if would be inconsistent in his words and deeds. After the car came to a stop, Andre unbuckled his seatbelt, preparing to get out of the car and retrieve the gifts from the truck. Ma was faster, she wanted to grab Andi¡¯s clothes but identally grabbed his hand instead. ¡°Andie, you must remember our agreement¡± And didn¡¯t mad the addonal small, cold hand in his pales. He turned to look at her right eyes, squinting as he retorted. Do you really think I¡¯m that He was almost thirty. This was the first time in his he had been doubted Even though he wasn¡¯t particrly fond of her at home, he wouldn¡¯t be cold to her in front of others. Besides, since they had an agreement, he would certainly abide by it Ma hit her lip, finding an excuse, ¡®1. I¡¯m just afraid you¡¯ll forget ¡± Andre didn¡¯t exposeer Hefinally noticed the extra small hand in his palm. Mia¡¯s hand was fleshy and soft, but a bit cold Mia also realized that her hand was in his palm She wanted to pull it out, but Ande subconsciously tightened, then let go. Mia, who had been gapped tightly, could clearly feel his kwardness She got out of the car confused. Chapter 16 Chapter 16 By the car looked at her parents in the sun,cleared her that a sweet smile hung on her lips, and her eyes cunced like crescents. ¡°Mom, Dad, Andie and are back¡± Andre went to the trunk to get gifts Coming over, he was taken aback by her smile was so sincere sweet warm, tender, and a little yful N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Andre¡¯s heart was touched twat hard for him to show a smile to his family that was sincere and not filled with social pleasantries and falseness. But for her Miranto her mother and embraced her parents tightly with open arms Andre, carving the gifts, also followed ¡®Come inside it¡¯s too hot outside¡± Auran ushered everyone in In thevingroom, Mia began to share her life with the Cedillo family ¡°Mom, Dad just malized how free life was after manage Tould sleep unol whatever me want and Andreidt mind¡± Andre didn¡¯t say anything just smiled slightly using his smile to confirm the truth of Man words. But in reality, he never spent the night in their matrimonial room. Hernd was believable, and she was back to her chatty self As a son inw, Andre couldn¡¯t stay silent. He asked Where¡¯s Cooper?¡± Madison answered. ¡°He¡¯s not on break from school yet¡± Cooper was Ma¡¯s younger brother 17 years old studying abroad. The family didn¡¯t tell him Andre said. ¡°Theard from Mia that Cooper wants toe back for college in di Ma tumed her head to look at Andres profile, puzzled. When did she say that! Mas mamage Madison answered ¡°Yes, but the academic pressure here is too high. We don¡¯t want him toe back Her brother wanted toe back for college? How didn¡¯t she know about thist ¡°Mastop staring at Andre Come to the kitchen with Mom Madison said, putting her daughter along Ma blushed. Twasn¡¯t She was pulled away by Madison. Only Andre and Aaron we left in the living room. They had no private matters to discusso Andreum Thinking about how the invin family had rejected 15 projects, he asked Theard you¡¯ve med down 15 Aaron waved him off is not like that. Andie, you and I both know why these 15 projects came about. They just want to get close to the Cello family and use me asa onda epted it would seem like I was selling my daughter for wealth. I sent my daughter to the Codo family just for the glory and wealth of the vin family. So, I didn¡¯t ept ¡°On one hand, to tell everyone at don¡¯t rely on the Celofanywe do as much as we can and never ima sam what¡¯s not ours. On the other hand it you guys that we don¡¯t take favors from the Cedillo family, and we hope you don¡¯t have any other intentions toward Ma, respect hat and treat her as an equal¡± Andre didn¡¯t expect this to be the case. Aaron¡¯s words made him feel very awkward. Turns out the livin family didn¡¯t many their daughter off to him for wealth and glory, but to protect her reputation in the Cedillo family, they even deliberately avoided some projects that might cause misunderstandings If you love Maso much, why did you agree to let her marry me?¡± There was no emotional foundation between them, a big age difference, and a huge gap in the status it seemed absurd for them to be together- Aaron seemed cunous Didn¡¯t Mia tell you?¡± Andre shook his head Chapter 17 Chapter 17 Just Aaron was about to say something. Ma yelled. Tad, Andie, quuli¡¯s madly!¡± After dinner Andre gave Mia and her parmis sometime belchin Later in the afternoon, he tuck Ma and left. As they were leaving. Mia sat in the pa**enger sealed down The window, and watched her parents magh the rear¨Cview mirror as they farded the distance stepped on the gas, speeding out of Whispersong Vige, and not until the Her eyes were moist and she kept rubbing them with her hand. Andre could feel ram¨Ccolored buling was out of sight did Maroll up the window and And slow down Andreasked, ¡®Do you always talk this much at home?¡± Not always. This sysurfest time at my ce and my parent time meeting you set daughter and your wife, if I don¡¯t keep the conversation going would be awkward for both of you This was the first time and this girl call hell de Looking at her face, it was a child daiming to be an adult, with the real adat standing by and watching Hut she was rght Stewarte woman helmamed ¡°Anyway, food to thank you¡± For the first the days of the manage this was hest cam and peaceful co Mia knew how to be polite and she showed politeness when was deserved. And today. Andre had eamed it thought you didn¡¯t ranch a word of what sadst night Andre swallowed Twouldve locked it up! ¡°You should¡¯ve said that earlier then, I could hit the hay sooner instead of prate you for two hours and then getting kicked out¡± As Andre drave, he ced at her, was this girlning that he kept her from skaping¡± Theymed Cotillo Mansion, They got along pretty well until they saw someone who should¡¯t have been there Jillian m Couldn¡¯t shell Hans wasn¡¯t please! As Ma and Andre stood together, she leaned gently wards Anda. The got your back. You did measons today, I wont forget that And tumed slightly and looked down at his wife, Howie was isoking up at him, she blinked hard ¡°Watch and learn¡± She walked over to the couch in the living room with a smak, ¡°Tansen, wese hark Hansen prended to yawn, Tim a bit beat Ma you¡¯re thedy of the house, you emena in the guest When he mentioneddy of the house¡® Jillian¡¯s face changed Was Hanun implying than she should stop dreaming about a future with her and Andre? Ma nced at dilun, ster nodded. ¡®Sure, kd marke you to me¡°, With the hell the but Hansen went upstan Ma waited until she was sure Hansen was far away, then she turned around and gave Jin a good look. She was farly attractive, but her makeup was a bit heavy and her perfume was too strong. So, this was the type of woman Andre liked Her gaze was like sharp reedes to Jn, pirrong her with N?velDrama.Org owns all content. humtion, She stood up, ¡®Mu, Andie doesnt kur you¡°. She pointed at Alian and said to And Dadeng hasa Take her and pol After that she woved and breedily went upstairs. Hold on a second She suddenly tuned around, locking eyes with Ande Chapter 18 Chapter 18 She had no idea that ever since they returned to Cedle Mansion, Andre¡¯s gaze was ford on her ¡°Andre, I helped you out today, and you did the same forme Sin were even seven now, right?! She made her pond loud and clear, then cheerfully hopped up the stairs, taking two steps at a time. Andre kept watching het until she was out of sight Jns wyn were glued to Andre She had seen for herself how Mis was all he could see. She was queen with envy She deliberately yed the damsel in distress sugang at Andie¡¯s sleeve whimpering, Yadre, you¡¯re finally back.¡± Been danking today? Jihan saw the cold look in his eyes and thought he did ng her drunk. She quickly shook her head, h o, if you dont likemedenking, I swear!li que¡± And nced at the empty staircase, then burned around and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go have a chat¡± Jian followed him gleefully Once they reached a balcony, Andre made Jillian amp of coffer Hepatitely ced it in front of her Seeing Andre suddenly being so politemade Jn uneasy. She asked. ¡°Andre, what is & That you want to tellime Andre said cell, Shop wasting your time on me My feelings for you are purely gratitude we were meant N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. to be together, we would have been by now¡± He words were blunt and disregarded her feelings. Youre of manageable age Try to get to know someone suite He was crystal clear Abian would understand Andre didn¡¯t pay attention to her ears. He poured himself a cup of coffee. ¡°You know my auton mamared man now it¡¯s not goud for you, me, or her if you? keeping ever. I he¡¯s an emergency call the house¡± At the mentor of her lion clenched her fats until her knuckles turned while The Mat ¦° Jillian¡¯s eyes weled up with tears. She reached nut to grab Andres and but he or conveniently picked up his coffee. Andre only gave her a nce and didnt answer She shook her head, tears streaming down her face. ¡°No. Andre, thats not. You and you lied me, how can you only feel gratitude for me? You saved my dad¡¯spany for me you acquired Sena Cc. for me, and you left your house on the night of your wedding to see me at Maplewood Estates¡± Tve never told you that liked you. This is al in your head¡± Andrelock h ?r smeared makeup, and said ¡°I saved your dad¡¯spany to recoy the favorheenor did for me. Acquiring Sena Co was a n I made a year ago, and I didn¡¯t even know what was going on between you and Sena Co. didnt wave on the night of my wedding because of you ¡°No Andre, you clearly admitted that night that you lived me, that you loved met Jillian began to roo loudly dresaid ¡°I don¡¯t converse with drunk se the had been drunk that time, Andre¡¯s attitude towards het was not an indulgence, nor nt admission of his feelings for her, but he was just fed up of salking to a drunk person Jillian¡¯s eye makeup was smeared from crying, Andres coffer was fished, and he stood up, politely a ssing fun to lease, it¡¯s hot outside, better head home! Andre resumed to the living room. As he climbed the Bars, he nced through the window at then who was soll crying on the bakery Chapter 19 Chapter 19 Helockab-minute brewther, let out a gentle sigh, and then headed up the stairs.expressionless. Mwased to pee him back. ¡°Wen you out on a date? Howe you¡¯re back so soon?¡± Andre shot her a nce and then made his way to the cooknom In the yard, Naomi had just turned and immediately spotted Jillian crying on the balcony. She i Jn¡¯s side Tillian, what¡¯s wrong? Jin Naomi and quickly wiped her tears, ¡°You¡¯re back¡± ¡°Jillian, why are you crying?¡± Naomi looked around and instructed her ser vants to hang her things to her mom, then went to two cups on the table, she asked, ¡°Did someone bully you?¡± Jillian didn¡¯t have the courage to tell Naomi What Ande had just said to her She shook her head Thanthing it up¡± ¡°Was it Ma?¡± Naomi¡¯stone indicated she had already concluded that Mia was to me ¡°Just wait I won¡¯t N?velDrama.Org owns all content. let you be bullied ¡± Naomi quickly to content Ma, but Jilian stopped her ¡°Don¡¯t go ¡°Oh night I forget, Today in her and Andie¡¯s day to be family She won¡¯t be at home¡¯ if Mia wasnt home, how could the possibly bully un? Nasme felt a bet mach ways ming Mia when things went wrong While she was reflecting Jillian internally led her ¡°She¡¯s back I just saw her ¡°What it really w That little girl actually bulled you? Just because the¡¯s Mr. Andies wife, Julian said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to stand up for me. She¡¯s not easy to mess with She even ns to.¡± Jns vonce wased, and the looked into Naomis eyes, leurs glistening. ¡°What does she n to do Naomi acked angnly Jian swallowed, ¡®She was trying to win over Hansen, said the thedy of the Cedo family and said you youre marrow-minded to manage the ami clenched her fists, the tumed to look at ition and asked through gritted teeth, is that tradi Dontreler was me who said it I¡¯m ahaid shell badmouth me in front of Hansen, then won¡¯t be able to aduce A woman keternally shouldn¡¯t stay by Andre¡¯s side. She¡¯s trying to seize your position as the head of the family, that¡¯s enough to show her mur colors. So she definitely won¡¯t let you hold thanes in Cedlo hen the future Jillian knew Napm¡¯s weak spot having been friends with her for many years, the knew Naomi¡¯s biggest fear was Cedillo the growing stronger under Andre¡¯s leadership, with all the senior staff being reced by Andres people. It cree day Cedilo he waspletely controlled by Andre. There would be no ce for Leo in thepany 1/1 with Naomi to disrupt her sonship with Ma ¡®Chelongs to the Cedillo family Love Andre, but lim nol jingrateful Andre has a stake in Cedillo Inc, and your! grandchild of the Cedillos, should have an even bigger stake But now, she¡¯s here. Ive been wamed not to enter the Cedo family without an inanation, you need to Chapter 20 Chapter 20 After stirring the pot, Jan wiped away her tears, strutting off the balcony looking like the victim Out of Naomi¡¯s sight her face changed instantly. The eyes that were crying before were now filled with malice and her hands were clenched. She was determined to get Ma out of the Cedillo family if it weren¡¯t for Ma, why would Andre say those heartbreaking words to her today¡± She knew And didn¡¯t love her but his words today were due to his sense of responsibility as a man. He was a married man, he had to keep a distance from her even if it meant hurting her. The second reason was Hansen. It was definitely him who made Andre keep his distance from her. Sitting in her car Jillian gazed at the grand mansion of the Cedi family, her eyes full of malice. She was going to use Naomi to stir up trouble, making life hell for the Cedi family. She would make every day of the lives gloomy. She would make Mia leave, be despised by the Cedillo family, and make Hansen re choosing Main the first ce With thisparison, manying into the Codito family would be a lot easier Jillian started the cat her eyes bulging with a fierce look, and left the Cedillo family At dinner, Mia followed the tradition of the Cedilo family, washing her hands before eating Naomi sat across from her and began to speak, ¡°Today Mrs. Mall and I went out and saw two dogs of very different statuses. One was a million-dor pedigreed dog the other a feandden stray, giving off a foul smell After washing her hands, Mia sat next to Andre, waning for what Naomi would say ent ¡°Mis. Moll¡¯s pampered dog was hungry when we went out, so the serv ants always carry the finest dog food for it to eat ate with such elegance, that the stray dog. saw and began to imitate. But it had never had dog food before, so what to do? Conveniently, there was a pile of feces nearby, so copied the pampered dog and ate the free found the dog¡¯s imitation strangely familiar, and I couldn¡¯t help but Everyone in the dining room could feel Naomi¡¯s sarcasm. It was clear who she was going Andrelooked at the quiet girl next to him, then at Nanmi acmss the table, her gaze meeting his wides ¡°Funny mough, Isteri met the stray dogs owner. He looked just as scruffy and ufortable as the dog. I heard him call the dog¡¯s name which sounded a lot like ¡°Mia¡¯ thought, this dog and Mia must be Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. kindred spirits, and even thought about buying it to give to Mia¡± Ma understood Naomi¡¯s sarcasm and humiliation But Ma was not weak. She took a deep breath, met Naomis piercing gaze, and said, ¡°Naomi, your words are so cutting You¡¯re a person, why do you want to be a noble sl ave to the Mall family? If you¡¯re happy being one, then be une. You think you¡¯re so high and mighty. We¡¯re all lucky to have someone like you¡± Naomi mmed the table pointed at Ma, and yelled angrily, ¡°Mia, are you asking for trouble?¡± Naom¡¯s words were suffocating the Mas words made people¡¯s anger explode,pletely uncontroble Andre was shocked by his young wife. He knew she was fearless, but he didn¡¯t expect her to be so bold as to insult Naomi in front of them all Chapter 21 Chapter 21 Next to Naomi, her hubby Bruce was sitting with a sour face. Mia might have gone a little overboard with her words to his wife, but he knew well that the drama was stirred up by his wife. ¡°Sit down. We¡¯re family, no need for the squabble. If you, being the elder, don¡¯t know how to talk, then zip it,¡± Bruce smartly scolded his wife. If Andre was a wise man, he would have also stepped in to give Mia a piece of his mind for the sake of family peace and wrap this whole thing up. But, it seemed like Andre wasn¡¯t itching to y the part of the wise man. He deliberately kept his trap shut, curious to see what else this gutsy girl, who dared to nickname him, disturb his father in the middle of the night, and publicly insult Naomi, could pull off. Naomi was at a disadvantage, boiling mad, and picked up the washbasin next to her, ready to chuck the water at Mia. But, Mia saw iting the moment Naomi lifted the basin and beat her to it. She stood up, grabbed her own washbasin, and sent the water flying with unerring uracy at Naomi. The water sshed onto Bruce who was sitting nearby, and Mia gave a polite bow, ¡°Sorry Bruce, didn¡¯t mean to get you wet.¡± Both Bruce and Andre were gobsmacked. In the dining room, Naomi let out a piercing shriek, ¡°Ah!¡± Mia handed the basin to the waiter, dusted off her hands, and resumed her seat, ¡°We¡¯re all daughters- inw of the Cedillo family. Other than being younger than you, I¡¯m no lower in N?velDrama.Org owns all content. status.¡± Hansen, apanied by the butler, slowly entered the dining room. The moment he stepped in, he could tell something was off, then saw Naomi sitting there without even wiping her face before eating. Hansen figured out what was going on, frowned, and took his seat at the head of the table, ¡°What happened?¡± Mia looked at Naomi, waiting for her to exin. After all, it wasn¡¯t her fault, it was Naomi who had started the quarrel. Naomi stomped her foot in rage, let out a loud yell, and stormed out of the dining room. Seeing the seriousness of the situation, Hansen turned to Mia, ¡°What on earth happened?¡± Mia said, ¡°Naomipared herself to apdog of the Moll family. I thought she was a bit out of it, so I sshed a basin of water on her to sober her up. The scream you heard just now might be her regretting degrading herself to a dog of the Moll family.¡± 1/2 13:06 Bruce looked at Mia, thinking, I¡¯m stuck between a rock and a hard ce. Andre looked at his new bride, thinking, So, you can lie too. I¡¯ll just sit back and watch your tall tales. ¡°Hmm, that¡¯s about it,¡± Mia told Hansen. Hansen turned to his two sons, ¡°Is what Mia said true?¡± The two brothers exchanged a nce, ¡°Father, I¡¯m going to check on Naomi.¡± Without answering, Bruce got up and left the dining room. Andre also got up and left without a word. He didn¡¯t need to exin his reasons for leaving to Hansen. Mia nced around, only her and Hansen at the table now. Then, she also stood up, ¡°Dad, I¡¯m going to find my husband.¡± After finishing, she followed in Andre¡¯s footsteps and left the dining room. When they stepped outside, the evening summer breeze blew by, carrying the distinctive warmth of summer. The wind rustled Mia¡¯s hair, blowing it onto her face. She used her pinky to tuck her hair behind her ears. Her skirt was lifted by the wind, then fell back down. Andre, who was ahead, felt someone trailing behind. He stopped in his tracks, and Mia also stopped not far from him. Chapter 22 Chapter 22 Andre twirled around, ¡°Why are you trailing me?¡± ¡°Andre, we need to move out,¡± Mia sincerely said. ¡°If I keep squatting at your ce, your sister-inw, your brother, and maybe even your dad will fall sick because of me.¡± She pleaded with her eyes, ¡°Okay?¡± She didn¡¯t want to stick around here anymore. She wasn¡¯t fond of any of the Cedillos. Hansen, the hard-headed one, Naomi, the annoying one, and Bruce, the iprehensible one, all of them drove Mia up the wall. Andre was her husband, supposed to be the person she was closest to in the Cedillo family. But, he was the one in the Cedillo family who disliked her the most. N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Mia even thought, maybe renting a tiny apartment outside would be better than living in this grand house. Seeing her wanting to bolt, Andre swallowed hard, ¡°As long as you don¡¯t piss me off, you can treat them however you want.¡± After that, he left. Little did he know his young wife would one day push him to the brink of hospitalization. At this point, he still found her words amusing. How much damage could she possibly do to send someone to the hospital? But, to let her move out, wasn¡¯t that letting her off too easy? She had finally married into the Cedillo family. Why not enjoy the perks of being a Cedillo? Andre smirked, ¡°Mia, I hope you have a good time in the Cedillo family.¡± In the dining room, Hansen, after hearing the staff¡¯s exnation, grasped the situation. ¡°Did she really say all that?¡± Hansen asked the staff. They nodded, ¡°Those were their exact words.¡± Hansen¡¯s face twitched, he banged on the table, ¡°All of you leave, and clear up the dishes.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± The crowd dispersed, leaving only the butler by his side. Hansen said, ¡°One moment, I find her likable, the next, she does something I can¡¯t stand.¡± The butler knew who ¡°she¡± referred to ¨C Mia, the new bride of the Cedillo family. The butler, from a neutral standpoint, said, ¡°Sir, something seems off. Ms. Naomi might be biased against Ms. Mia, but she wouldn¡¯t stoop so low as to insult her. Ms. Naomi has always been prideful; she wouldn¡¯t say something that degrades her unless something happened or she has been provoked. Ms. Mia did insult Ms. Naomi, which was wrong, but if we look at it another way, Ms. Mia is a good child. If she hadn¡¯t been forced to marry into the Cedillo family, 1/2 13:06 she wouldn¡¯t have acted out. But Ms. Naomi insulted her family, and it¡¯s only natural for her to be upset. Both of them are at fault. This issue needs to be further investigated.¡± Hansen and Naomi had a good rtionship for over twenty years. During these years, he hade to see Naomi as his own daughter. When something went wrong, Hansen¡¯s first instinct was to me the neer, Mia. After all, what parent would readily admit that their child was at fault? Fortunately, the butler was there to keep him in check. Hansen ordered, ¡°You said Naomi has encountered something or been provoked? Investigate. Check what Naomi has done today, whom she met, and what she said. If I find out someone is deliberately stirring up trouble, they won¡¯t be let off easily.¡± Chapter 23 Chapter 23 The butler said, ¡°I¡¯ll look into it right away.¡± It waste at night, and the Cedillos hadn¡¯t had dinner the whole evening. Mia¡¯s stomach was grumbling with hunger, but she knew that if she went to look for food now, she would definitely be scolded. So, she decided to suck it up and wait until tomorrow. She tidied up the couch, using a nket as a duvet and a cus hion as a pillow. All her clothes were in her suitcase. When she needed to change, she wouldy the suitcase t, take out her clothes, and then close it back up and put it in the corner. She had never used the walk-in closet. After changing into her pajamas, Mia put the clothes she nned to wear tomorrow next to the couch and prepared to lie down and sleep. Suddenly, the door opened. She immediately sat up on the couch, watching the door cautiously. ¡°Andre! What brings you back tonight?¡± The person who came in was the room¡¯s other owner, Andre. They had been married for a while, but he had never spent the night in the new house. He must have been back to get some clean clothes. Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Normally, he came to this room just to change clothes. Thinking this, Mia wasn¡¯t on guard anymore. She let out a sigh of relief andy back down on the couch to sleep. Andre nced at her surprisingly, then looked over at the vacant, soft bed. ¡°Do you always sleep on the couch?¡± Mia answered, ¡°Yeah, is there a problem with that?¡± Andre was really surprised. She had a big bed but chose to sleep on the couch. Was she a masochist or something? From his interactions with her, he never thought she was that type of person. He sat down on the couch next to her, looking at the girl lying on the long couch. ¡°Why don¡¯t you sleep in the bed?¡± Mia was lying on the couch, looking up at the man sitting on the couch, who looked quite noble. ¡°We had a falling out on our wedding night. If I sleep in the bed and force you to sleep on the couch, wouldn¡¯t you be so mad you¡¯d want to throw me off the third floor?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯re afraid of me.¡± Mia said, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of you.¡± ¡°Then why are you afraid that I¡¯d throw you off the third floor?¡± Even the arrogant business. tycoon was confused. 1/2 13:07 ¡°Obviously, I¡¯m not afraid of you, but I¡¯m afraid of getting hurt.¡± If she was thrown off the third floor, even if she didn¡¯t die, she would be disabled. Even a broken bone would be very painful. Suddenly, Miaughed and sat up from the couch, hugging her pillow and smiling at Andre. ¡°Andre, by the sound of it, are you saying you¡¯re not staying here at night anymore?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it.¡± Mia pouted, ¡°I don¡¯t believe you¡¯lle back and share a room with me. If you sleep in the room with me, how are you going to exin to your Jillian?¡± Andre wanted to tell Mia that there was nothing between him and Jillian, but then he thought, why should he exin? If there was no good reason, he wouldn¡¯t do anything. Andre got up and went to the bed, picked up his watch, and went into the walk-in closet with his pajamas to the bathroom. Mia heard the noise and watched Andre¡¯s figure move. ¡°You¡¯re not really going to sleep here, are you?¡± Andre nced at her, didn¡¯t answer, and went straight into the bathroom. Mia watched him leave, pped herself on the mouth, and cursed, ¡°Why can¡¯t I control my mouth? Why did I provoke him? Maybe he won¡¯t leave tonight.¡± Indeed, Andre didn¡¯t leave that night. After he took a shower, he went out to dry his hair. Mia watched him dry his hair, and after he finished, he went out for a while. Mia patted her chest and said, ¡°Thank G od he is not sleeping here.¡± But, less than two minutester, he came back. Mia saw that he had a book in his hand. He went straight to the bed, pulled back the covers, sat down, and theny in the bed. Chapter 24 Chapter 24 The main light of the room was off, only themp by his bed was still on. The girl on the sofa had been watching him for an hour. Andre lifted his eyes to meet her big ones. ¡°Am I handsome?¡± Mia shook her head, ¡°Nah.¡± He was indeed quite a looker, but Mia would not admit it. ¡°So why are you looking at me?¡± Mia rested her right hand on her left, her arm on the edge of the sofa, her chin on the back of her right hand. She asked curiously, ¡°Why don¡¯t you go sleep in the study?¡± ¡°I have a bedroom, why would I sleep in the study?¡± ¡°But I¡¯m in your bedroom. It¡¯s kind of sketchy for us to be in the same room.¡± ¡°We¡¯re legal spouses. Why are you hung up on what¡¯s appropriate?¡± Hearing this, Mia bit her lip. As if they were never meant to be innocent. This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. Mia countered, ¡°We had an agreement.¡± ¡°Did the agreement specify that I can¡¯t sleep in my own room?¡± Well¡­it didn¡¯t. Mia swallowed, sitting up straight. ¡°Andre, don¡¯t tell me you intentionally sleep in the same room with me, harboring some ulterior motives?¡± ¡°Mia, quit your daydreaming. I¡¯m not interested in a kid.¡± Mia gritted her teeth. How could she have such ¡°daydreams¡±? She was just trying to kick Andre out of the room this way. If he wasn¡¯t in the room, she could freely sleep on the sofa or on the floor. No one would know. But if he was in the room, she¡¯d feel ufortable, like someone was invading her territory. Seeing she couldn¡¯t make him leave, shey back down on the sofa, disappointed, sighing. ¡°Oh well, I¡¯ll keep quiet from now on.¡± Her joke had backfired and brought Andre back. She regretted it so much! She closed her eyes and pretended to sleep. Andre didn¡¯t continue their childish conversation either. He returned to his usual cold demeanor and started flipping through books. The room was quiet, the light dim. The central air was on keeping the room at afortable temperature. After a few minutes, Mia could hear the sound of flipping pages, like a luby. It 1/2 13:07 was making her sleepy. For the first time, she found the sound of turning book pages with her eyes closed very soothing. No wonder some people enjoy listening to others reading, lying with their eyes closed, drifting off to sleep. Just hearing the sound of turning pages gave her a sense of tranquility. Suddenly, an unusual sound broke the silence. And then, the sound came again. Mia blushed with embarra**ment. The sound wasing from her stomach. Andre put down his book, looking towards the sofa. ¡°Gurgle.¡± Mia pressed her stomach hard. A little figure in her mind suddenly jumped out and ran to her stomach, warning it. ¡°You didn¡¯t make a sound when I was hungry before, and now you¡¯re making noise just because I missed one dinner? Are you asking for a beating?¡± Stomach, ¡°Gurgle.¡± Her stomach made another sound, ¡°Gurgle.¡± The man on the bed started to move. The sound of him getting off the bed and putting on his slippers reached Mia¡¯s ears. She knew Andre wasing. She shyly moved her hands away from her stomach and began to cover her face, curling her body up, trying hard not to let her stomach make any sound. Andre walked over to the sofa where she was sitting, looking down at her curled up like a ball. She was covering her face with her hands, her ears turning red. He was nning to tease her, but seeing her embarra**ed, he didn¡¯t say anything and left the room. Chapter 25 Chapter 25 When Mia heard the door shut, she instantly popped up from the couch and strode towards the bathroom. She filled the cup from the tap and started c hug ging water down. She tried to stuff herself by drinking water. By the time Andre got back, she had already downed three cups of water and felt filled. When they met, she felt embarra**ed thinking about the rumbling noises her stomach made earlier, and she ran to the couch to hide her face under a nket. Andre took one look at the water cup on the bathroom counter, then at the nket wrapped her on the couch, and he had a general picture of what was going on in his mind. Andre walked over with a simple sandwich in his hand, plopped down on the couch where Mia was He gently pulled the nket off Mia¡¯s face, saying, ¡°Here¡¯s a sandwich. Get up and eat.¡± Mia turned her face and indeed saw a sandwich in his hand. She nonchntly held out her hand for it, and when Andre saw that the girl wasn¡¯t being polite at all, he suddenly got a mischievous idea. He purposely put his hand up in the air and looked down at Mia, who was lying on the couch, ¡°Beg me.¡± Mia retorted, ¡°As if!¡± Andre was speechless. Seemed like this girl had filled her stomach with water and was now feeling all high and mighty. He was just trying to have a bit of fun with her, seeing her reaction, Andre said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave the sandwich here. If you want it,e find me by the bed.¡± Mia got mad, she pulled up her nket ready to cover up and sleep, but then she noticed that the edge of the nket was still being held by Andre. She smacked him with her hands a few times before yanking the nket away and pulling it over her face to begin sleeping. Andre looked at the red marks on his hand, thinking to himself: This little girl sure knows how to hit hard. This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. He ced the sandwich on the coffee table, stood up and said, ¡°If you get hungry, eat the sandwich. I¡¯m going to sleep.¡± The always proud Andre had unknowingly admitted defeat to Mia, but he didn¡¯t notice. Even when he turned off the lights to sleep, he didn¡¯t realize that he had lowered his head in front of Mia. In the wee hours, Mia was awakened by the urgent need to pee from drinking too much water, and she had to run to the bathroom several times. 1/2 13:08 Andre was a light sleeper; he could feel it every time she got up. Also, he could feel this girl¡¯s cautiousness. She tried not to disturb his rest, and even went barefoot to the bathroom. Again, after she fell asleep, Andre got up to check if she had eaten the sandwich on the couch. Sure enough, this stubborn girl hadn¡¯t touched it. Could she really fill up on just water? Andre didn¡¯t know. He looked at Mia who had fallen asleep again. She had kicked the nket onto the floor, so this time her face wasn¡¯t covered. Andre stared at her, caught up in deep memories. If she were still here, she would be the same age as Mia this year. Mia was a sophomore this year, and she would have been in college too, right? The next morning, the rm on Mia¡¯s phone woke them both up. She got up from the sofa, stretched out a big yawn, sat there nkly for five minutes before picking up her clothes to change in the bathroom. When she came out, Andre was just going into the bathroom to brush his teeth and wash his face. Mia picked up her pajamas and neatly folded them, walked to a corner of the room, pulled out a suitcase, ced it on the floor and opened it, then put her pajamas in it, closed it, locked it, and finally put the suitcase back in its original corner. This series of actions surprised Andre once again. Chapter 26 Chapter 26 He suddenly realized that every single piece of clothing in the walk-in closet was his, and not a single one belonged to her. Other than the closet, it seemed like there were no traces of her belongings anywhere in the house. Andre¡¯s gaze fell upon a few rolling suitcases tucked away in the corner. Could all her stuff be in there? ¡°Mia, where do you keep your clothes?¡± Mia pointed at the suitcases, ¡°In there, I haven¡¯t been using your closet or drawers.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± She casually lied, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to.¡± After saying this, Mia took a hair tie and casually tied her long hair back. She suddenly looked more refreshed. She asked, ¡°Are you done with your morning routine? If so, it¡¯s my turn.¡± Andre gave her some space and Mia began her routine. Andre was in the doorway, looking through the mirror of the sink at the girl who was freshening up. He was confused. What kind of girl was she? She seemed to have two sides to her, one being arrogant and the other being understanding. If anyone messed with her, she would p back in an instant. She showed no fear. Yet, she refused to sleep in his bed and always chose the couch instead. This distance made him feel a certain fondness for her. She would rather starve than eat the sandwich he made for her. But ever since she married into the Cedillo family, she never invaded his personal space. Andre crossed his arms and watched the girl with a face full of foamy cleanser. He was puzzled but didn¡¯t probe further. Curiosity was the start of emotions. Once he started to get curious about her, he would subconsciously observe her and slowly understand her. When it came to understanding someone, you would actively This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. try to get to know them and things can be dangerous¡­ Mia felt like every meal in the Cedillo family was a form of torture. As they were about to head downstairs in the morning, Mia said to Andre again, ¡°Let¡¯s move out and live on our own.¡± Andre was walking ahead and turned to tell her, ¡°I¡¯ll think about it.¡± Mia caught up to Andre, grabbed his sleeve and said in a pleasing tone, ¡°Stop thinking about it, 1/2 13:08 moving out will only bring benefits and no harm. Surely you don¡¯t want to keep seeing those long faces at home and being restrained by all these rules, right?¡± In the Cedillo family, only Andre could take her out now. Even if she could afford to rent a ce herself, she couldn¡¯t do it now. The strict rules of the Cedillo family would never allow her to make such a decision on her own. ¡°No one dares to lose their temper at me at home, and the rules here can¡¯t restrain me.¡± To put it bluntly, he just didn¡¯t want to move out. He deliberately let Mia live here to let her suffer under Naomi¡¯s bullying. Mia was a smart girl and immediately caught on to his intentions. With a slight frown, she said, ¡°Andre, are you a man? When I¡¯m bullied, the one who should feel humiliated is you.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡± Last night, Hansen waste to dinner and Naomi started arguing with Mia. This morning, he absolutely couldn¡¯t bete again. The tension fromst night¡¯s argument still lingered, and if another argument broke out this morning, the peace at home would be shattered. So, Hansen left the room early again this morning. And by chance, he bumped into the newlyweds chatting. He walked over and asked, ¡°What are you guys talking about?¡± Mia and Andre simultaneously turned their heads to look at Hansen approaching. Hansen¡¯s gaze fell on Mia¡¯s hand gripping Andre¡¯s wrist. Andre also looked down at the small hands that clung to his wrists, then slowly raised his head along them to meet Mia¡¯s eyes. Upon realizing this, Mia quickly withdrew her hands, held them behind her back and said obediently, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to.¡± Chapter 27 Chapter 27 Andre gave her a frosty look and turned to leave. Mia and Hansen exchanged a grin. She pointed towards Andre¡¯s retreating figure and said, ¡°I¡¯m off to chase my hubby again.¡± With that, she quickly caught up with Andre. They were murmuring something to each other, too soft for anyone else to hear. Mia¡¯s lips were moving, but Andre was stone-faced, not talking. Even if people tried to listen as much as they could, they couldn¡¯t hear what Mia and Andre were saying. Hansen watched their retreating figures as he asked the butler, ¡°Did I just get snubbed?¡± The butler wisely didn¡¯t answer the question but deftly steered the conversation towards a topic Hansen was more interested in. ¡°Mr. Andre spent the night with Miast night.¡± ¡°What?¡± Hansen was taken aback, ¡°He spent the night with Mia?¡± The butler nodded. ¡°Oh, now I get it.¡± Hansen looked in the direction they had left, ¡°No wonder Mia and Andre seemed so Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. close, so that¡¯s the reason.¡± The butler thought to himself, Mr. Hansen, I didn¡¯t say anything. It was all your own imagination. In the dining room, Hansen sat at the head of the table. His gaze frequentlynded on Mia and Andre. He watched as Mia kept talking to Andre. Mia had a deep moral discussion with Andre about how severely those who broke their promises would be condemned. After finishing, she asked, ¡°Andre, did you hear what I just said?¡± ¡°Nope.¡± Mia whispered, ¡°We had an agreement that we would move out, and you can¡¯t just not keep it because it was verbal.¡± Andre replied, ¡°I did promise to move out, but I never agreed when.¡± Mia was livid, puffing up like a tiny blowfish. Her eyebrows furrowed and her mouth pouted, her small nose looked like it was about to spout fire. Andre watched her getting riled up and couldn¡¯t help butugh. Hansen¡¯s eyes widened as he looked back and forth between Mia and Andre. Things were progressing so fast? They just slept together and then¡­ Mia didn¡¯t know what Hansen was thinking, and she told Andre, ¡°You¡¯ll regret this.¡± 1/2 13:08 Then, Naomi and her husband arrived at the dining room. The previous harmonious atmosphere instantly disappeared and was reced by tension. Yesterday, the butler reminded Hansen, ¡°Sir, you need to treat both daughters-inw fairly. You¡¯re not only Naomi¡¯s father-inw, but also Mia¡¯s.¡± That made it impossible for Hansen to favor Naomi anymore. Naomi felt humiliated yesterday, and plus her husband¡¯s reprimandst night, she had an even bigger grudge against Mia. Mia immediately became wary when she saw hering because she knew that Naomi would not miss the opportunity to humiliate herself. Andre smirked, watching the girl beside him gearing up for a fight. Her gaze met Naomi¡¯s head on. Bruce, going by the principle of peace, subtly held his wife¡¯s hand under the table, signaling her not to make trouble. This repression only made Naomi angrier. ¡°Mia, Andre doesn¡¯t love you at all. He¡¯s only in love with Jillian.¡± Andre, who was ready to enjoy the show, didn¡¯t expect to be dragged into it. His eyes instantly turned stern, staring at Naomi across the table. Impulsive Naomi disregarded Bruce¡¯s expression turning visibly gloomier. Chapter 28 Chapter 28 Mia said calmly, ¡°If Andre truly loves Jillian, why doesn¡¯t he marry her? Clearly, he doesn¡¯t love her.¡± ¡°Hah, Mia, look at yourself, you reek of cheapness. How did you even marry into this family? You and Jillian are like the ugly duckling and the beautiful swan.¡± Mia nced at Naomi, her gaze finallynding on Naomi¡¯s wrist, studying the familiar bracelet. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m cheap. You¡¯re noble. Look at your million-dor bracelet. Those in the know might know that money was made by my husband, but those clueless ones might mistake your husband as one of the mayors used of corruption and bribery.¡± ¡°How dare you!¡± Hansen rebuked harshly. His eyes were red from their squabble.¡± Naomi had reached middle age yet she was still stu pid. Mia was young but outspoken and would say anything. One brought up his least favorite Jillian, while the other said something absolutely outrageous. Bruce looked grim. ¡°Mia, you¡¯re young, so I won¡¯t hold your words against you.¡± He turned to Andre, ¡°You need to keep your wife in check.¡± Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Andre was shocked, but kept his cool. He gave a fakeugh, ¡°Same goes for you.¡± Hansen roared, ¡°No more talking in the dining room. Whoever talks can get the hell out.¡± As his words fell, the four of them stood up and, surprisingly, left the dining room together. Hansen knocked over all the dishes on the table with his cane; he was so angry his hand was shaking. Outside, the four split into two groups and went their separate ways. Mia naturally followed Andre. ¡°You saw it today, as long as I¡¯m here, there won¡¯t be peace in your family.¡± Andre turned, the morning sun shining on his face. Mia looked up at the man bathed in morning light, hoping his character was as good as his looks. Andre licked his teeth, his Adam¡¯s apple moving. ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect you to say things like that.¡± ¡°So you¡¯re not nning on moving out?¡± Andre smirked, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± He added, ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s them you¡¯re pi ssing off, not me.¡± With that, he turned and walked towards his car with sunlight on his back. He had to go to work. 1/2 13:08 Mia was still on vacation, and watched as the car drove away. Her stomach grumbled¡­ She returned to her bedroom, locked the door, and slumped down on the couch. Mia pouted, her eyes welling up. If her parents knew about her experience in the Cedillo family, they would take her away without hesitation. Mia missed her parents terribly. Tears sliding down her cheeks, she buried her face in the couch armrest and wept quietly. The hungrier she got, the more upset she became. ¡°Mom, I miss your delicious cooking.¡± It was clear what Andre meant. He wouldn¡¯t leave. Mia cried it out and cleared her head. She still had 12 days until school started. Once school started, she would be free. Mia realized she couldn¡¯t keep offending people. Her morning provocation was not to argue with Naomi, her real goal was to let Andre see that her words were too offensive, hoping he would take her away from the Cedillo family soon. But things didn¡¯t go as she hoped, she not only offended Bruce but also angered Hansen, and her goal was not achieved. Chapter 29 Chapter 29 After making her thoughts clear once again, she made a new decision. For the next 12 days, she just wanted to keep her chill. So, she stayed mostly in her room at the Cedillo¡¯s, avoiding Hansen and Naomi as much as possible. She thought she¡¯d keep avoiding these two, but to her surprise, Naomi insulted her parents. One day, Aaron and Madison were worried that their daughter was being treated unfairly at the Cedillo¡¯s. They usually talked on the phone every day, buttely, Mia often choke up during the call. So they decided to pay her a visit. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Before going, they bought some fancy gifts to present. For the first visit, Madison was a bit nervous, worrying that her behavior could impact their daughter¡¯s situation at the Cedillo¡¯s. Naomi saw all this and didn¡¯t give a d amn. ording to the maids, Naomi received them then as thedy of the Cedillo family, ncing at Aaron and his wife in her condescending manner. When she saw the gifts they brought, she just nced at them and then ordered the maids to put them aside. Aaron and his wife wanted to see their daughter, so Naomi ordered a maid to go upstairs and get her down. But Mia didn¡¯t hear any calling all day Later she found out it was all a show put on by Naomi. Aaron and his wife having been around the block, and when they saw Naomi¡¯s expression, they immediately knew what was up. Plus, the maids said their daughter wasn¡¯t home, so they left without even having a drink. Mia was clueless about all this. Later, she saw Naomi in high heels, kicking the gifts her parents brought with a foot, even insulting the gifts. Mia asked from behind her, ¡°Who are these from?¡± Naomi turned around to face Mia, and didn¡¯t hide a thing. ¡°These are from your parents. Just like you, worthless stuff that even our maids don¡¯t want. They came to see you, but I sent them away.¡± Hearing this, Mia¡¯s eyes turned red. She approached Naomi, her teeth grinding as she asked, ¡°What did you say?¡± ¡°I said your parents came to see you, and I sent them away¡­ Ah!¡± Mia thennded a punch on Naomi¡¯s face. Everyone was dumbfounded. Mia knocked Naomi to the ground with a single punch. Then, the maids quickly stepped in, one holding Mia back, another helping Naomi up. A few other maids went to inform Hansen. 1/2 12-08 The whole household, including the maids, were familiar with the conflict between the two youngdies. They often quarreled, but they never thought their conflict would escte to physical violence. Mia broke free from the maid¡¯s restraint and started wrestling with Naomi. Naomi wasn¡¯t good at fighting, and she had never been in a fight before. All she knew was that she got hit, and it was a blow to her pride. She went crazy, biting and scratching Mia. While screaming, she attacked Mia without any regard for her image. Seeing all of this, everyone knew Mia had really pis sed Naomi off. Mia¡¯s mind was filled with the words Naomi had just said. She had endured repressed emotions, married a strange man against her will because of her family, and lived a depressing day to day life. However, the parents she was protecting turned out to be offended as well, which caused Mia to once again be angry and knock Naomi to the ground. Her eyes were red and swollen, tears blurring her vision. Hansen rushed over. Chapter 30 Chapter 30 He pointed at the two brawling, ¡°Hurry up, break them up!¡± The maid was too scared to go over, just then two men who heard themotion in the room entered. Seeing Mia pinning Naomi to the floor, the two men quickly ran over. Andre was once again startled by his wife¡¯s outburst; her words were sharp and she was ruthless when she made a move. He ran over, directly picked up his raging wife and held her tightly, moving her to the side. Bruce also rushed to pick up his wife who was lying on the floor and he asked with a worried expression, ¡°Naomi, are you okay?¡± Andre looked down at the girl crying in his arms, her hot tears sliding from her lower eyelids onto the back of his hand. She was actually crying. Hansen pounded the floor with his cane, he yelled, ¡°You¡¯re all going mad, all of you!¡± Hansen was angry, and everyone knew someone was in for it. Naomi¡¯s confidant immediately said to Hansen, ¡°Sir, it was Andre¡¯s wife who hit Bruce¡¯s wife first. We were all watching. We can all testify.¡± Mia bit her lip, she broke free from Andre¡¯s embrace, then looked at him with her swollen eyes, ¡°This is what you wanted to see, right?¡± She walked to the open area, faced Hansen and said with a trembling voice, ¡°Hansen, I will never forget the humiliation my parents suffered today.¡± Unknowingly she had angered Hansen again. Mia walked over, and picked up the gift boxes that had been knocked to the ground, some of which had been directly deformed by Naomi. With tears in her eyes, she carried a few boxes back to her bedroom, her hands red from the strain. N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Andre also went upstairs after realizing the situation was wrong. Although Hansen was angry, he realized things were not as simple as they seemed. He asked, ¡°What happened today?¡± The butler looked at Naomi, he said, ¡°Ms. Mia¡¯s parents miss her today, so they bought gifts to visit her, but it was Ms. Naomi who received them.¡±- Hansen looked at Naomi¡¯s swollen cheek, and the bruises on her arm caused by Mia, ¡°What did you do today?¡± Naomi looked at the rage in Hansen¡¯s eyes, and felt very uneasy. Ever since Mia married Andre, the Cedillo family had not had a moment of peace. 1/2 13.00 Mia returned to her room. She wiped clean each of the gifts her parents had brought, and then ced them in a corner with her own luggage. Andre came in after, and immediately asked, ¡°I was only away for a day. What happened between you and my sister-inw?¡± Mia wiped away her tears, and then went to the bathroom to wash her face with clean water. She was the first one to dare to tantly ignore Andre¡¯s existence, and although Andre didn¡¯t do anything, he felt an unwarranted guilt. Mia stayed in the bathroom for half an hour, and when she finally came out, her eyes were swollen. During this time, Andre had been waiting for her on the sofa. When she sat across from Andre, her face still had tear stains. He could clearly tell that Mia had just cried. Andre saw that she didn¡¯t want to deal with him, so he didn¡¯t say anything more and left. Andre went downstairs and called over the first maid who spoke up. It was the maid who had rushed to report that Mia was the one to start the fight when she saw Hansen. Andre looked at the obedient maid, his voice turning cold, ¡°Who actually started it?¡± The maid stammered nervously, ¡°Mr. Andre, it really was Ms. Mia who hit Ms. Naomi first.¡± All the maids were afraid of Andre. There was no doubt about that. Chapter 31 Chapter 31 Andre had been hustling and bustling out there for years. Only this time, because of getting married, he decided to hang around the house a bit more. Though he was rarely home, his temperament and personality were an open book to the house staff. They all knew he was as cold as ice, stern as a judge, and hard as nails. Nobody could sway him or change his mind. Even when Hansen at home said something, Andre wouldn¡¯t listen. Leo was usually the big cheese at home, but in front of Andre, he was as meek as a kitten and as docile as a house dog. Everyone in the house kept their distance from Andre, not daring to ruffle his feathers. Even his car was off-limits. No se rvant dared to wash it. No one could figure out Andre¡¯s mood swings. The more mysterious he was, the more he scared the bejesus out of everyone. Andre asked, dead serious, ¡°She¡¯s been quiet as a mouse for days. Why the sudden ruckus today?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± came the reply. Andre warned, ¡°Don¡¯t let me catch you badmouthing my wife, or there¡¯ll be hell to pay.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± The maid was scared out of her wits, trembling like a leaf under Andre¡¯s interrogation. Andre took off, not bothering to grill everyone in the living room like Hansen did. He headed straight to N?velDrama.Org owns all content. the security room, pulled up all the footage from the living room during the day, and watched it from start to finish. Half an hourter. Hansen in the living room also got the scoop. He grabbed the ashtray off the table and chucked it to the floor. The ashtray shattered into a million pieces, sending shards flying to Naomi¡¯s feet. Naomi was scared out of her skin by Hansen¡¯s fit of rage. He had gotten so angry that he got up from the couch, but couldn¡¯t get a word out. Naomi had gotten his goat so bad he was huffing and puffing irregrly. Seeing all this, Bruce quickly tried to smooth things over, ¡°Dad, I¡¯ll give Naomi a good talking to. Please don¡¯t blow your top. She knows she screwed up.¡± ¡°You, discipline her? You¡¯re all doing a bang-up job,¡± Hansen retorted, pointing an using finger at Naomi, ¡°You¡¯re going to apologize to the Irvin family with me tomorrow.¡± 1/2 13:10) ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡± Naomi defied. Hansenid down thew, ¡°Either you go with me to apologize, or get the hell out of here.¡± The room gasped at Hansen¡¯s ultimatum. Naomi¡¯s tears came streaming down her face and she didn¡¯t know what to say. She had always considered the Cedillo family as her own. She couldn¡¯t believe they would kick her out just for Mia, the new bride. ¡°Fine, I¡¯m leaving.¡± Naomi was angry too, she turned and ran out. Hansen was so mad he copsed onto the couch. He gritted his teeth and told Bruce sternly, ¡°You¡¯re going with me to apologize to the Irvin family tomorrow.¡± ¡°Alright, Father.¡± Andre pa**ed by the living room after reviewing the footage. He overheard the trio¡¯s conversation. He observed them quietly, then headed upstairs after they finished talking. He pushed open the bedroom door and immediately noticed a big bulge behind the curtain. He instantly knew what it was. Even by the sound, he could tell there was someone hiding behind the curtain. Mia hid in the room for a while. She was extremely upset and had been crying her eyes out. Her voice was all stuffy from crying. It took her a while to regain herposure before she called her parents. ¡°Dad, I just got home and heard that you and Mom came by today. Why did you leave so early? I wasn¡¯t even back yet.¡± Unsure of what was said on the other end of the line, Mia repliedughing, ¡°I¡¯m not being mistreated, you know me. If anyone messes with me, I¡¯ll fight back. I was bored out of my mind at home these past few days, so I thought I¡¯d go out, maybe go shopping, and then I left. But I didn¡¯t expect that you and Mom would miss me ande to visit. Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier?¡± Chapter 32 Chapter 32 Andre was tiptoeing around, his shoes making no sound as he moved. He sat down on the sofa and listened in silence to Mia¡¯s conversation with her family. ¡°My husband? He¡¯s really good to me. Just today, he told me that if I ever get bored at home, I could go out shopping. He was supposed to pick me up after work, but I couldn¡¯t wait and just left. ¡°Hansen is also really good to me. He always looks out for me, knowing that I¡¯m new to the family and might feel out of ce. He¡¯s been taking care of me in many ways. He even thought of hiring several ser vants for me because he thought I might have trouble adjusting to the new lifestyle, but I found it too bothersome and turned him down. ¡°My sister-inw may sound harsh, but she¡¯s actually really good to me. There are many rules in the Cedillo family and I¡¯m grateful to her for teaching me. But I¡¯m not one to follow rules, so I often upset her. But she understands that I¡¯m new to this family, so she onlyins asionally about me not listening to her, and then it¡¯s no big deal. She¡¯s been showing me around and helping me get familiar with the family. ¡°I haven¡¯t spent much time with Andre¡¯s older brother. He¡¯s usually very busy and rarely at home. We N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. only see each other at meal times. He doesn¡¯t talk much and seems serious, but he¡¯s actually very kind-hearted. Mom and dad, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m doing fine here. There¡¯s no need for you to worry too much. You can take some time to visit my brother abroad, and I¡¯lle home to see you in a few days.¡± Andre listened as Mia spoke highly of every member of his family, and he felt a wave of shame like never before. A man nearing thirty bullying a girl who just turned twenty. He was ashamed of his own actions and couldn¡¯t believe how his family had behaved. Mia chatted a bit more with her parents before hanging up. Then, she opened the curtains and stepped out. The sudden appearance of a man on the couch startled her, ¡°When did you get back?¡± ¡°Just now.¡± Andre looked at Mia¡¯s face and found himself unable to scold her. He had also watched the video and knew the whole story. He had even copied the video to his phone. He got up, walked over to Mia, and handed her his phone, ¡°You can see for yourself what really happened. It¡¯s not like she said. She did disrespect your parents, but she didn¡¯t insult them or order anyone to kick them out.¡± Mia didn¡¯t watch the video. She looked up at Andre, anger shing in her eyes. ¡°Are you defending her? Are you choosing to protect her?¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need for me to do that. You¡¯re my wife. If I were to protect anyone, it should be you.¡± Andre took Mia¡¯s hand and ced his phone in her palm, ¡°But you need to know the truth.¡± 1/2 13:10 Mia ced the phone on the windowsill. Holding Andre¡¯s phone, she hit the y button. Naomi left the Cedillo family in tears. As she stepped out of their gate and saw that her husband didn¡¯t chase after her, her anger grew even more! It was all Mia¡¯s fault! If it wasn¡¯t for her, she wouldn¡¯t have been scolded by Hansen and kicked out of the house. She checked her phone and saw Jillian¡¯s contact. A n formed in Naomi¡¯s mind as she considered Jillian¡¯s rtionship with Andre. She made up her mind. If Mia didn¡¯t let her live in peace, she wouldn¡¯t give Mia the satisfaction either! Soon, Jillian drove over to pick her up. When she saw Naomi getting out of the car, her eyes lit up and she eximed in surprise, ¡°Naomi, what happened? Did that woman Mia bully you again?¡± Chapter 33 Chapter 33 Her words seemed toe out identally, but only Jillian knew that they were like needles, piercing deep into Naomi¡¯s heart. After watching the entire video in her bedroom, Mia handed her phone to Andre. ¡°She didn¡¯t directly insult my parents, but I won¡¯t forget her cold stare and contempt. I don¡¯t regret arguing with her. I think I did the right thing.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not saying you¡¯re wrong. You should protect your parents. But¡­¡± ¡°There¡¯s no but.¡± Mia cut off Andre¡¯s unfinished sentence. Gathering her courage, she red at Andre, ¡°If you dare to mess with my family, I¡¯ll give you a piece of my mind too.¡± ¡°Haha.¡± Andre chuckled, pointing at Mia¡¯s forehead, ¡°You¡¯re pretty brave.¡± Mia looked serious, and even though Andre was pointing at her forehead, she didn¡¯t back down, ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡± ¡°How bored must I be to mess with your family?¡± The anger in Mia¡¯s eyes gradually faded, ¡°I¡¯m just warning you. Don¡¯t me me for not considering our marital bond when I hit you.¡±. Her words amused Andre. He, a grown man, was being warned by his little wife, and might even get a beating from her in the future. It amused him to just think about it. Seeing Mia no longer angry, Andre a**umed it was because she knew that his parents were not This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. mistreated after watching the video. He asked, ¡°Mia, why do you have two personalities?¡± One was sharp and sarcastic, at which time Mia wouldn¡¯t tolerate a bit of grievance for her and her family. Whether it was with him, Naomi, or Hansen, she dared to speak her mind, even getting into fights with Naomi. But she also had a gentle side. She could also speak gently, and her smile was warm. She would also protect her own interests, not easily giving what was hers to others, and not touching what was not hers. Andre was curious about his new wife. He even wanted to know how this girl became his wife. With her personality, if she didn¡¯t want to, no one could force her. Mia answered him, ¡°One personality is for family, the other is for strangers. Don¡¯t you do the same?¡± To her, Andre never had patience. He would humiliate her,ugh at her, and deliberately let others bully her. But for Jillian, he was affectionate and gentle. 1/2 13:11 Andre misunderstood Mia¡¯s rhetorical question to be about his contrasting attitudes towards his partners and family, and he nodded, ¡°Yes.¡± Mia felt very ufortable, she thought to herself: you married me but love someone else. What a jerk. Andre got a re from Mia for unknown reasons and he couldn¡¯t figure out what was going on. That night, Naomi didn¡¯t return home. Bruce went to Naomi¡¯s house, but found she wasn¡¯t there, so he guessed she had gone to the Marshals. Brian weed his arrival. He had always been looking for an opportunity to meet with Bruce. He had wanted to have dinner with Bruce many times, but Bruce never agreed. Today, his daughter brought back Bruce¡¯s wife, so he had to seize this opportunity. ¡°Bruce, pleasee in.¡± Bruce got out of the car and asked Brian, ¡°Is my wife Naomi here?¡± ¡°Yes, she just came back with my daughter. Pleasee in, we can talk as we go.¡± After learning that his wife was at the Marshals, Bruce nodded and walked into the Marshal family. In Jillian¡¯s bedroom, she learned about Naomi¡¯s situation at home. Jillian gave a mocking smile, but she didn¡¯t show it as she tightened her grip on Naomi¡¯s hand and said that, ¡°Mia has really gone too far. She¡¯s acting like she¡¯s thedy of the house because of Hansen¡¯s favoritism. You¡¯re still at the Cedillo family, darling, you can¡¯t let this go. If you let Mia continue to stay in your house, how will you live in the future? You must find a way to fight back. People always say that a mother¡¯s power is infinite. Think about Leo¡¯s situation in the future. If Mia takes control of the Cedillo family, there will definitely be no ce for Leo. Darling, for Leo¡¯s sake, you must stick to it. Don¡¯t give up.¡± Chapter 34 Chapter 34 Naomi stood her ground. ¡°I¡¯ll get it done.¡± She sneered, ¡°This newbie thinks she¡¯s the queen of the Cedillo family. You¡¯re right, I won¡¯t let her get away with it.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll always have your back, Naomi.¡± Just then, a servant knocked on the door, ¡°Miss, Mr. Bruce is here to pick up his wife.¡± ¡°Honey!¡± Naomi eximed in excitement as she got up from Jillian¡¯s bed and was about to walk out the door. Jillian deliberately held Naomi back, ¡°Stay here tonight. We have a lot to talk about. I¡¯ll tell my brother. You shouldn¡¯t keep letting Mia walk all over you.¡± Naomi wanted to stay, but when she thought about her husbanding to pick her up, she felt she should go see him; after all, it wasn¡¯t their home. In the Marshals, she still had to respect her husband. ¡°I¡¯m going to meet my husband and tell him my decision,¡± Naomi said. Jillian looked worried, trembling as she said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid Mia might brainwash my brother. If you see him, he might bully you.¡± ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it, he won¡¯t.¡± Although she said this, Naomi couldn¡¯t forget how her husband had hit her for Mia. In the end, she went out. As soon as she appeared, Bruce had already stood up and said to Brian, ¡°I¡¯ve overstayed my wee tonight, Brian. We can discuss work matters tomorrow. It¡¯ste, and I¡¯ll take Naomi home. My office door is always open to you, Brian.¡± He didn¡¯t give Naomi a chance to speak; he just went up and put his arm around Naomi¡¯s shoulder, reminding her to behave. ¡°I want to stay with Jillian tonight,¡± Naomi said. Bruce said, ¡°You¡¯ll have plenty of time to chat with herter. It¡¯ste, and staying over isn¡¯t appropriate. You can invite Jillian over to our ce another day.¡± He didn¡¯t agree with his wife, nor did he give Brian Marshal a chance to keep them, he ushered Naomi into the car. Naomi wanted to get out of the car after getting in, but Bruce sternly warned her, ¡°Naomi, don¡¯t make me say something unpleasant in front of others.¡± He made sure his wife was seated, then drove off to the hotel. Knowing his wife was upset and didn¡¯t want to go home, he stayed with her at the hotel. At the hotel, Naomi sat on the bed with her hands over her face, sobbing, ¡°I¡¯m the victim here. 1/2 13:11 Why is everyone siding with her?¡± ¡°You¡¯re a grown woman, and you¡¯re arguing with a child. Think about how much older you are than Mia.¡± ¡°Yes, I¡¯m older, I¡¯m old. But I¡¯m not as cun ning as her. Isn¡¯t Mia trying to kick me out of the Cedillo family and take over my position? I won¡¯t let her.¡± Bruce sat next to her, frowning, ¡°Who told you Mia wants to be the matriarch of the Cedillo family?¡± He was also involved in Andre and Mia¡¯s marriage. Mia had deliberately made herself look ugly to avoid marrying Andre. She was forced by her father to marry Bruce¡¯s brother. Why would she want to take over the Cedillo family? There must be a misunderstanding. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Naomi and Bruce had been married for many years, and she had always been honest with him. So, she told Bruce what Jillian had told her that day. ¡°¡­ And you dare to say she¡¯s young, and I should amodate her? If I give in to her any further, my son won¡¯t have a ce in the Cedillo family. Even though you¡¯re the mayor and you¡¯re in a high position, is society still the same hereditary system as it used to be? Can you let Leo inherit your official position and remain high and mighty forever? You can¡¯t!¡± Chapter 35 Chapter 35 She went on, ¡°But, I gotta stand up for the rights as thedy of the Cedillo family, even if it means going down fighting for Leo¡¯s rightful shares.¡± Bruce frowned upon hearing his wife, ¡°Naomi, you gotta cut ties with the Marshals.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Bruce looked at his wife¡¯s bruised face. He wanted to scold her, but he felt more pity. ¡°You¡¯re a real dummy, getting used and not even realizing it.¡± The next day, Mia was up from the couch early, and so was Andre. ¡°If you want to go to the Irvins, I can drop you off.¡± ¡°Nah, if I go too early, it¡¯ll make my folks suspicious.¡± Andre watched her get busy. She got dressed and then put her pajamas in the suitcase. It was like this every day. Andre found her behavior very inconvenient and even had the urge to tell her to put her clothes in the closet. But soon, he shrugged off the idea. Her inconvenience was none of his business. At breakfast, Naomi and Bruce were not home. Although Hansen was displeased with Mia¡¯s behavior, he knew that he couldn¡¯t criticize her, so he didn¡¯t bother. At the dining table, following his rules, no one talked. N?velDrama.Org owns all content. In the morning, Jillian came to the Cedillo family. Hansen was annoyed, and he had her driven away straight away. In the afternoon, Naomi came back. She came back this time with her gaze sharply fixed on Mia, and Mia stared right back at her. Hansen became friendly upon seeing Naomie home. He didn¡¯t bring up the matter of Naomi apologizing to the Irvin family. Hansen thought to himself, his eldest son was the mayor, and Naomi was the mayor¡¯s wife. Having her apologize to amon family would make them embarra**ed in front of everyone. He was too impulsive yesterday. After thinking it over at night, he decided to downy the matter. Then, the Cedillo family tacitly agreed to let it go. No one brought it up afterward. Mia was stubborn, and she remembered this incident. The Cedillo family spent two more quiet days, Naomi¡¯s injury on her face became less severe. 1/2 On the way to dinner, she bumped into Mia again. ¡°Mia, I will take revenge for my face one day.¡± Mia replied calmly, her expression suddenly changed, ¡°You still owe my parents an apology.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t hold your breath for my apology. Dad made it clear that he wouldn¡¯t let me lower myself to apologize for this matter. They¡¯ll have to swallow the injustice, and Mia, you better understand your ce in the Cedillo family.¡± ¡°Fine, I know my ce in my family, the Cedillo family, just you wait.¡± She left for the dinning room. Recently, things were happening one after another at home, Bruce and Andre both hurried home right after work. Andre¡¯s home schedule got more regr than it used to be. He never told anyone, but only he himself knew that when he was not home during lunchtime these two days, he would feel very uneasy, and even food tasted nd. He was constantly worried about how to handle it if Mia caused another dispute in the family. He often checked his phone while having lunch. Whenever a call from home came in, his heart would beat faster than usual. Bruce felt the same. When he left in the morning, he specifically told Naomi not to argue with Mia again. Naomi behaved very well in the first two days, but when she found out Hansen was more inclined towards her, she started to get co cky, even wanting to insult Mia again. Chapter 36 Chapter 36 She was thest one to walk into the dining room, and just as everyone was washing their hands and getting ready to eat, Mia had started eating straight away before Hansen had even started talking. Andre was sitting next to her, his heart racing. He couldn¡¯t figure out why Mia had such an impact on his heartbeat. Naomi saw the chance to pick a fight, ¡°Mia, don¡¯t you know you¡¯re supposed to wash your hands before eating? Didn¡¯t your parents teach you that?¡± Mia mmed her fork on the table, staring at Naomi, ¡°Did you forget the pain after your wounds healed?¡± This topic made Naomi angry. Unable to control her temper, Naomi stood up, pointing at Mia, ¡°It¡¯s either you stay in this house, or I do. I can¡¯t stand being here with you.¡± ¡°You¡¯re still so hot-tempered at your age, sis-inw. You must be going through menopause. My grandma had a medicinest year when she was going through it,and it worked pretty well. I suggest you get a box.¡± Mia¡¯s words left Naomi speechless, while Bruce shook his head. His wife always picked fights with Mia, only to be humiliated by her. But she still wanted to provoke Mia. Just as Naomi was about to chew Mia out, Hansen shouted from the head of the table, ¡°Enough!¡± Hansen: ¡°Mia, apologize to Naomi.¡± ¡°Why should I apologize? She was the one who attacked me first.¡± Mia had been avoiding conflict. Therefore, she rarely left her room. However, Naomi went after her parents. She didn¡¯t want to cause trouble, but others always provoked her. In Mia¡¯s mind, she had evaluated the people of the Cedillo family. Her husband Andre always stayed out of the business, as if he enjoyed watching her being made fun of. Bruce and his wife Naomi were a couple, and he would naturally protect his wife. Hansen and Naomi had deep feelings for years. As an outsider, how could she expect Hansen to be fair in this matter? If he were fair, he would have taken Naomi to the Irvin family and apologize to her parents a long time ago. What had she done to upset Naomi? She couldn¡¯t figure it out. It seemed that she and Naomi had be enemies. Hansen couldn¡¯t stand Mia arguing with him. ¡°Think about it, ever since you married Andre, there has been constant arguing at home. Can¡¯t you change your character, Mia? I¡¯ve been tolerating you for a long time.¡± 1/2 13:12 Mia sneered, ¡°Tolerance? Thanks for your tolerance, but I don¡¯t need it.¡± ¡°Mia! Do you even know what respect is?!¡± ¡°The premise of respect is to respect. I ask you, have you ever respected me?¡± Hansen retorted, ¡°How have we not respected you?¡± ¡°Why not ask yourselves this qustion?¡± Mia¡¯s counter-question left the Cedillo family speechless. Momentarily, Hansen¡¯s face turned red, and he said word by word, ¡°The rule of the Cedillo family is to respect the elders. Since you¡¯re part of the Cedillo family, you should follow this rule and apologize to your sister-inw.¡± This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. Seeing Mia being scolded by Hansen, Naomi was smug. Mia looked at her, clenched her fists, held back her anger, and said to Naomi, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Hansen¡¯s anger gradually subsided, and Naomi was all smiles. ¡°But, when will Naomi apologize to my parents. Since the rule of the Cedillo family is to respect the elders. Then I want to ask, when will she follow this family rule.¡± Naomi: ¡°Forget it, your mom is younger than me, there¡¯s no way I¡¯m apologizing to her.¡± Chapter 37 Chapter 37 Mia said, ¡°The house rule of the Cedillo family is to respect the elders. Doesn¡¯t that mean the older generation and older people, right? Now that I¡¯m married to Andre, my parents and Hansen are all elders. Even though my parents are younger than you, they are on the same level as Hansen. So you should call my parents elders. Last time when my parents visited, you insulted them. Isn¡¯t that against the house rules of the Cedillo family? Since you value house rules so much, you should enforce this rule, right?¡± Mia looked at Hansen with a gloomy face, and she asked, ¡°Am I right?¡± She deliberately embarra**ed Hansen. Everyone in the family knew that Hansen wanted to downy the matter, but only Mia refused to let it go. She insisted that Naomi apologize! Hansen shouted, ¡°All of you get out!¡± Mia had broken with Hansen, and she didn¡¯t care about anything now. She asked again, ¡°Was I wrong?¡± ¡°Get out!¡± Mia clenched her fists, and as she was about to ask for the third time, the housekeeper signaled the serv ants, and someone immediately led Mia out of the dining room. After Mia was taken out, the atmosphere in the dining room became extremely tense. Naomi was even careful with her breathing. Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. In the quiet dining room, Andre rhythmically tapped his fingers on the table. Everyone was watching him. Bruce reminded, ¡°Andre, you should go check on Mia.¡± Andre nced at the entrance of the dining room, then turned his gaze back to the people at the table. He smiled and said, ¡°Bullying my wife is the same as bullying me.¡± His sharp look made Naomi dare not look at him. Andre asked, ¡°Am I right?¡± Naomi remained silent. Andre asked again, ¡°You were pretty talkative when you were lecturing my wife just now. Why are you mute now when it¡¯s my turn?¡± Naomi looked up and said, ¡°Andre, she deserved it.¡± Andre looked at Hansen and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t my inws deserve an apology from the mayor¡¯s wife?¡± Hansen reminded, ¡°Andre, she is your sister-inw!¡± 1/2 13:12 Andre snorted with a sarcastic smile, ¡°Haha, that¡¯s funny. You forgot, Mia is my wife. You want me to offend my wife for my sister-inw, do you think I¡¯m that pathetic?¡± ¡°You¡­¡± Andre stood up from the table, dusted off his clothes, and said to Naomi, ¡°The house rule of the Cedillo family is to respect the elders. Don¡¯t forget, as a member of the Cedillo family, you should obey the house rules, unless, you¡¯re not a member of this family.¡± His devilish smile made Naomi shudder. Andre left the dining room with big strides. When he went upstairs to find Mia, he found that she was not in the room. He stopped a help and asked coldly, ¡°Where did Ms. Mia go?¡± ¡°Ms. Mia ran out crying just now. We don¡¯t know where she went.¡± Andre went outside, he looked around but couldn¡¯t find Mia. ¡°She must have gone somewhere to cry again.¡± After looking around, Andre decided not to look for Mia anymore. She woulde back when she was done crying.. He took out his phone and called his a**istant, ¡°Help me buy a house.¡± ¡°But sir, don¡¯t you already own Maplewood Estates?¡± the a**istant asked. Andre replied, ¡°Do I need to exin to you why I want to buy a house?¡± Chapter 38 Chapter 38 ¡°Sorry.¡± If he wanted to buy a house, he needed to be clear about its purpose. So, the a**istant asked again: ¡°Mr. Andre, what kind of house are you looking for this time? A vi, or a mansion? For investment, or for residence? Any preferences for the location? What¡¯s your budget limit?¡± Andre gripped his phone tightly, his voice deep as he asked, ¡°Have you ever worked in a real estate agency before?¡± The a**istant was immediately taken aback, quickly exining, ¡°I swear, I haven¡¯t. Everything on my resume is true. It¡¯s just that this is my first time helping you buy a house, and I¡¯m not sure what you need.¡± Losing patience, Andre said, ¡°A vi, for residence, in the suburbs, no budget limit.¡± ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll find it for you right away.¡± After hanging up, Andre turned to leave. He realized the environment in the Cedillo family was no longer bearable. He initially wanted Naomi to bully Mia, but in the end, Mia won. Now, the Cedillo family was in chaos. His mind was always at home when he was at work. He knew he didn¡¯t need to worry about Mia, but every time, he would imagine scenes of Mia being bullied by his family, which affected his work efficiency. To solve this problem, he decided to move immediately. He had a personal attachment to Maplewood Estates, a ce he personally supervised and designed. He didn¡¯t want any unrted women living there. So, he decided to buy another house. Once this was settled, all that was left was to wait for Mia toe home, and then tell her they were moving. He kept waiting for her, but by nine at night, there was still no sign of Mia. When he called Mia, he found her phone ringing in the couch. Mia left without her phone? This made him realize the severity of the situation. So, he went out to look for Mia, asking the se rvants in the house, ¡°Have you seen Mia?¡± ¡°We haven¡¯t seen Ms. Mia.¡± Andre frowned, wondering where she could be. So, he went to the surveince room. Mia had left the Cedillo family alone four hours ago after managing to escape from the serva nts. Andre sat in the surveince room, his brow furrowed. He touched his lips, ¡°If she¡¯s upset, she definitely won¡¯t go back to the Irvin family, where would she go?¡± Unable to figure it out, and seeing time ticking away, he began to feel anxious. A young girl noting homete at night, he was worried something might happen. 13:12 Evergreen Haven. Mia had been wronged by the Cedillo family and ran out alone. It was only then she realized she hadn¡¯t brought her phone or wallet. This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. To avoid worrying her parents, Mia had to ask her good friend Jade for help. Jade¡¯s family was well-off. Her father and her brother was also working in the police station, and her mother was a businesswoman. Though Jade didn¡¯te from a rich family like Mia, she was a force to be reckoned with in Havenbrook. She also had a very loving brother, Chad, who was five years older than her. Chad¡¯s love for his sister was envied by everyone. Whatever Jade asked for, Chad would do it for her. She was also the youngest daughter of the Byrne family and was loved endlessly. Mia met her by chance, but they quickly became best friends because of their simr personalities. Regarding the forced marriage by the Cedillo family, only Jade knew about it. Chapter 39 Chapter 39 When Jade wanted to go to the Cedillo family to help her out with some trash talk, Mia stopped her. ¡°Easy there, this could affect your mom¡¯s business. Our family business is already under threat from the Cedillo family. I don¡¯t want your mom also to suffer from this.¡± Mia had been married for a while now, but she was meeting her friend this time because she needed a ce to crash. After a two-hour walk, Mia arrived at the Byrne family¡¯s ce. Jade was the one to answer the door. Seeing her friend, Mia couldn¡¯t help but burst into tears, ¡°Jade, can I crash at your ce tonight?¡± ¡°What are you talking about? You can not only stay tonight, but you¡¯re also wee to bunk here forever.¡± Jade ushered Mia into the house, ¡°What¡¯s up, sweetheart? Did the Cedillo family mess with you?¡± Mia nodded and then shook her head. ¡°You didn¡¯t want to worry your folks so you didn¡¯t tell them, but you don¡¯t need to hide it from me. Did the Cedillo family mess with you?¡± Mia: ¡°Yes, they did, but I fought back.¡± Jade: ¡°Did you give it your all?¡± ¡°No.¡± Jade: ¡°Next time if anyone messes with you, fight back with all you¡¯ve got. My brother says it¡¯s legit self-defense.¡± Mia smiled and nodded at her friend, ¡°Deal.¡± That night, Chad came home from work. He had his clothes draped over his arm intentionally. Chad was handsome, working at the police station gave him an air of integrity. His actions and demeanor were just like his father¡¯s. Chad was more handsome than most, his eyes striking. He often wore a serious expression, but whenever he looked at Jade, he would often smile. With Jade¡¯spany, Mia felt much better, and she noticed the clothes on Chad¡¯s arm. She thought to herself, it was not even cold, why would he need a coat? Then she looked at his hand. And she realized, that he was using the clothes to deliberately hide something. When Jade went over, Mia whispered, ¡°Check out your brother¡¯s left hand.¡± Jade got it. She rushed to the door to greet Chad and while he was distracted, she swiped the 1/2 13-14 clothes off his hand. Seeing the item, Jade shrieked excitedly, ¡°Woah¡±¡± Chad quickly used the clothes to cover the item again, asking, ¡°Want some?¡± ¡°Absolutely, you always treat me the best.¡± Jade was all smiles. Chad handed the item to Jade with a smile, ¡°This is sugar-free.¡± He looked at Mia, ¡°You guys carry on, I¡¯ve got stuff to do.¡± Jade, holding the bag, sneaked upstairs with Mia. ¡°Jade, what did your brother bring for you this time?¡± Jade opened the bag for Mia to see, ¡°Look, he knew I wanted some juice and he got it for me.¡± ¡°You should not drink too much, it¡¯s bad for your teeth.¡± Jade, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my bro said it¡¯s sugar-free.¡± Being with Jade made Mia forget that she was married. She was still the same girl, cherished by her Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. parents. Her personality remained the same; she was still the temperamental Mia. She lived freely, not confined to a tiny bedroom. Being with the innocent Jade, she forgot all her troubles and they yed into the night. She had no idea that the Cedillo family was looking for her everywhere. Andre couldn¡¯t wait any longer. As the night grewter and Mia still hadn¡¯t shown up, he started to get worried. So, he called his men and asked them to search for Mia in every nook and cranny of Havenbrook. He also called his friends for help. Chapter 40 Chapter 40 Mars, ready to hit the sack, got a call from Andre, ¡°What are you talking about? Who¡¯s Mia? You have a wife? Your wife is missing? Mia¡¯s missing? Go d, what happened?¡± Andre: ¡°Yes, I¡¯m married. My wife is Mia, and she¡¯s missing now.¡± Mars: ¡°wait a sec, I might be drunk.¡± Andre: ¡°Snap out of it in three seconds and help me find her.¡± Mars rolled off his bed, his as s smarting from the fall on the floor. He got it. This wasn¡¯t a dream. His buddy actually got married. Not only did he get married, but his wife had also done a runner. So, three minutes after Andre hung up, his other three mates from abroad dialed him one after another, ¡°Andre, I heard from Mars your wife¡¯s done a runner?¡± Andre endured their questions. ¡°How did you end up in this mess, mate? You¡¯re not exactlycking in charm, how did your wife escape right after you got married?¡± Taking a deep breath, Andre said, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for needing Mars¡¯ help right now, I would have shut him up.¡± ¡°You¡¯re pis sed.¡± Conner from abroad confirmed his friend¡¯s wife was gone, ¡°Andre, I¡¯m heading over to Eldoria to be with you.¡± As friends, they needed to be there for him through these dark times. Conner wasing, so were the other two, Asher and Teddy. On the surface, they said they were looked like, and what kind of woman had the guts to betray Andre. The Cedillo family searched for Mia all night, and even Hansen knew that. Sitting on the sofa, his hands clenched tightly. rning Mia now was pointless, and Andre had stayed up all night waiting for Mia toe home. At noon the next day, Mia hesitated before returning to the Cedillo family. Standing outside the Cedillo¡¯s front door, she took a deep breath, men tally preparing herself. Having note home all night, she was bound to be scolded. She had thrown a ma**ive tantrum at the Cedillo family yesterday, but today she was much calmer. She told herself to keep her emotions in check and not to lose her temper again. Her arrival woke Andre, who had his eyes closed resting, he watched his wife walk in from the sweltering sun. 1/2 13 Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Mia¡¯s embarra**ment and nervousness did not escape his eyes. Andre adjusted his sitting. position on the sofa. Mia paused at the door for half a minute, then walked towards the living room. ¡°Who gave you the nerve to note home all night and leave us with no news of you?¡± Hansen said, ¡°Are you defying me?¡± Hansen red angrily, his look frightening Mia. ¡°I went to a friend¡¯s house yesterday. I realized I forgot my phone when I got there, so I didn¡¯t tell the family.¡± ¡°You forgot?.¡± Hansen roared. Mia mmed up, afraid to speak. Hansen was initially furious, even contemted having Mia and Andre divorce. But seeing her obediently standing there waiting to be scolded, he remembered the butler¡¯s reminder that the cause of all this was his insistence on her marrying Andre. ¡°Mia, do you know you were wrong?¡± Hansen red fiercely at Mia. Naomi had been silent the entire time, knowing Hansen was angry, she didn¡¯t dare provoke him. But she wanted to know if Mia would apologize for her actions yesterday. Chapter 41 Chapter 41 | Mia, who had stormed out of the housest night due to her emotional outburst Today, he was curious if Mia would stick to her guns again. 1 did nothing wrong¡± Mix didn¡¯t let Andre down, her sesponse as he expected She was a stubbon as a mule. Her answer understandably pa**ed off the old man of the Cedillo family, who had been trying to stay calm ¡°You go to the basement an reflect until you admit your mistakes¡¯ sard Hansen. He called the butler over and pointed in a direction, Take her to reflect The butlerted to appease Big Ms. Main young and just joined our family Dont scare her ¡°What you want to defy me too? Grandpa Hansen red at the butler The butler had no retor and had no choice but to obey the order and took Mia to the Ma had expected some reprimand but not punishment leing contined in the basement, the felt helpless. Upon reaching the basement, the butter looked at the gif who tried hard to put on a brave face and said. ¡°My Ma, you apologize to the old man, this punishment can be avoided.¡± ¡°Thank you for your kindness, i believe did nothing wrong She walked into the small dark room, tumed around and firmly closed the door. Outside was bright and sunny. As she closed the door, the room plunged into darkness, where she couldnt even see herfingers Mia fumbled on the wal, found the switch, and tumed on the light in the small dark room. The space was very fight, so she just sat on the floor Thankfully, the room wasn¡¯t hot After a while, the basement exhaust fan started working. Mizughed, the Cedillo family must be afraid that she would pa** out insi Mis let out a sigh. Her expenencin past few days were nicher than those of the past few years. She was kind of tired. No wonder women these days hadmitment issues if you considered har experiences, even more young women would be reluctant to get mamed Mamage was the jumping from afortable environment into a fiercelypetitive anima where you had to start attacking each other. The opponents might be the mother-inw fatheriw, of sister in Mi felt very upset. Suddenly, she noticed something peculiar about one wall and walked towards The wall was mugh, with many vertical lines N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Mia took a lock and thought Could it be that the ones who were locked hest used the lines on the wall to keep track of time? She wanted to continue drawing, but there were no stones in the room this person was also used to being punished so they always brought tools with them¡± Without a stone, Mia just leaned against the wall and sat quietly with her eyes closed Back in the living room, after Ma left, Andhe stood up lighty dusted off his pants, then said: ¡°Thave shown you enough respect. Now that she is not here. I would like to emphasize again. Ma is my wife, respecting her is the same as respecting me if you feel ufortable with my wife at home. I can take her away from this family¡¯ Naomi dared not provoke Andre. She said, ¡®Andre, you were there and saw the whole event. You know what night and who¡¯s wrong¡± Andre gave her a sidelong nce and asked, ¡°What did she do wrong? Even if she was wrong, so what? Do you think I would talk about my wife¡¯s mistakes here?¡± Chapter 42 Chapter 42 And coldly said ¡°Out daydmaming¡± He left the living room and headed straight for the basement door where Leo was usually locked up. He picked up the lock and inspected it, then told the serv ant next to him. Open the door.¡± Mia suddenly opened her eyes in the room. It was Andre¡¯s voice What was he doing here? The serv ant said, ¡°Mr. Andre, it was Mr. Hansen who ordered us to lock Mia here. We are not open the door without his permission Andre need, ¡°Then let him pay your wages from now on¡± He took a step back and then kicked open the door Mia shivered in fright from his kick. She shifted to avoid being hit by the door. And walked in and looked at the girl hiding in theer, ¡°Do you like it here?¡± 1 don¡¯t¡± She shook her head ¡°Then get out.¡± And waded at the door for Ma Ma just looked at him, not moving ¡°Or do you want me to pack your things for you?¡¯ Andre asked again Packing? Where was she going? Andre was getting impatient. He walked into the room, bent down to pull the girl up and took her out of the cabin Only when they got outside did see the door that Andre had kicked open The door frame was loose. The guy was really strang He led her the way Back in the living room, Miran into Hansen She stopped in her tracks, and Hansen stated at her. He became very angry and then trembled as he said, ¡°Andrel You said you would respect me is this how you show your nospect?¡± He had just locked Mia up, and not even ten minutester his son had rescued her And he had the gall to say he would respect him! Andre replied calmly. It was respectful enough of me to let you lock her up. No matter how long it was it counts as being locked up¡± He led Mu upstai Ma was a bit confused Were Ands and his father not getting along? Once they ached the bedroom, And let go of her hand He said. ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me you wanted to move out of the Cedillo family? Pack your things now. We¡¯re leaving tonight¡± Mia was surprised. ¡°You agreed?¡± Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org. Andre said, ¡°For everyone¡¯s safety, it¡¯s best you leave as soon as possible¡± ¡°If you had said so earlier, all this trouble could have been avoided¡± She muttered. She stated packing quickly. She didn¡¯t have much luggage to begin with, so it didnt take long Just then, Andre¡¯s phone rangt was Conner He answered, ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up Conner asked. ¡°Bro, did you find your wide who wanted to leave you?¡± Andre nced at Mia, who was folding nkets on the sofa, ¡°Do you want to meet her?¡± Conner said. ¡°Of course, I came back to help you find her Andre said. ¡°Gel Mars toe too¡± Heaning that he was going out, Mia asked softly, ¡°Are you leaving? Connerectedly said, ¡®Ohiman, Andre, was that your wife¡¯s voice or your new me¡¯s?¡¯ He paused at the airport. Ignoring his buddy, Andre ended the call and told Mia, ¡°You finish packing while go sort some things out. I pick you up tonight¡± ¡°Okay, was for you¡± Mahad just been rescued by Andie, and now he was promising to take her away of co course, she would follow his instructions. In fact, she found Andres fendly demeanor towed her even mom appealing She watched Andie leave the house, then quickly started charging her pho phone and texted her friend Jade that she was sale now Top floor of Crescent Park Chapter 43 Chapter 43 By the time Andre amived, the other four were already waiting for him Co dressed in a rust-colored shirt with a ck the locked sharp Seeing Andre, his eyes twi nkled with mischief, ¡°Look who it is, the newlywed¡± No sooner had Andre sat down than Mars leaned in and said. ¡°So hear from Co that your we ran away, and you¡¯ve got a newdy in your Asher joked, ¡°You sure know how to live it up, don¡¯t you?¡± Andreumed to Teddy, ¡°What¡¯s your take?¡± Teddy just shrugged Timine looking for trouble¡± ¡°What do you mean¡±¡±Mars asked Teddy I mean I¡¯m gonna diag your dead body to the known A ES ¡°You¡¯re quite the businessman Andre admitted family for some cash Teddy torted. He then took off his suit jacket, stretched his wrists and locked at this three ends. ¡°So, who should I deal with first? Conner Asher.¡± 1 suggest you take care of Mars first, then Co and save Asher forst Teddy advised ¡°Thanks for the tip bro, Let¡¯s just call it a night Mars shot Teddy a look and took off An hourter, the live of them finally sealed down for a peaceful drink. Conner¡¯s wist had been injured by Andre He raised ** to Andre with his left hand, moving his night ¡°¡±Cheers to your manage Mars took the brunt of it his as s still songing. And had kicked him in the butt sending him flying onto the couch Given that Andre could kick open doors, it wasn¡¯t hard to imagine how sore Mars a ss was Asher was luck than the other two, he didn¡¯t get hurt because he begged for mercy right away. And let him off the h ook Now that everyone had cooled down, Asher picked up his **, poured in some liquot. To your manage He downed it in one go So did Andre ¡°Why did you suddenly get momed, Andre?¡± Teddy asked ¡°Because my father told me to.¡± Andre¡¯s ** was refiled by Mars. He raised his **, ¡°Why?¡± Andrejust shook his head ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Teddy challenged. ¡°Then why did you agree to get mamed?¡± ¡°He gave me some information I agreed to get mamed¡± Andre replied. ¡°Does the information have anything to do with where Molly is?¡± ¡°Yes¡± Andre took another drink¡­ weet voice on the phone your wife or your new squeeze, Andre?¡± Conner asked, puzzled. ¡°You¡¯re such a dunce, obviously it¡¯s the new squeeze Andre¡¯s wide ran off, even if she came back, Andre wouldn¡¯t take her back, Plus, he never loved his wife,¡± Mars Blurted out ¡°You¡¯re night His wife wouldn¡¯t talk to him like that. Only his new squeeze would¡± Conner agreed. And didn¡¯t say anything, but his knuckles cracked as be clenched his fists. Both Conner and Mars looked tomfied as Andrered of them Mars quickly coed his hull, ¡°ou don¡¯t tell us what¡¯s going on, but you won¡¯t let to aquel Andhe?air we 25ll This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. fit?nda?r Teddy tomate. He offered Andrea ** of liquot ¡°Andre, calm down. Can you tell i at either. And when we do specte, you don¡¯t want to hear it and want at¡¯s going on?¡± his wife suddenly disappeared, and a new woman suddenly i Anyone would be curious about such a situation Chapter 44 Chapter 44 Andre took the wine ** and ced it on the table. Tm nning to move her out, if she keeps staying here, I¡¯m afaid the tum the Cedillo family upside down¡± Asher curiously asked. Is your family in chaos T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. now?¡± Andre answered ¡°Chaos? This is just the beginning. She¡¯s driving my dad up the wall my sister inw had a fight with het, my brother got yelled at by her. Choos, you say?* Mom stopped what he was doing and started pping. ¡°Andre, your wife is something else. She¡¯s pis sed off everyone in your family, except Teddy cunously asked him, ¡°What about you?¡¯ Thinking about how that gul often called him names, Andre huffed duined his ** again. Tcant be bothered with her so she hasnt pi ssed me off yet ¡°Who are you kidding? Shean offst night and gave you ¡°Mais was cut off by Asher covering his mouth, ¡°You have a death with or something Conner was only interested in Andhe¡¯s new wife, Andre, could you describe your wife?¡± After thinking about his experiences with Mia. Andre finally said. ¡°She¡¯s something else. Words can¡¯t dese ¡°Alght, let¡¯s drink.¡± Teddy nudged Asher¡¯s arm who immediately got the hint So the two of them started plying Andre with alcohol Soon, Mars and Conner also started sneakily pouring drinks for Andre, ¡°We have seen each other in a while, let¡¯s have another round Everyone was constantly topping up Andre¡¯s ** Half an hourter Ander¡¯s cheeks were slightly flushed. Teddy raised an eyebrow at Asher, that was about enough Asher nodded Back in the Cedillo family. Ma had already tidied up the room, waring for Andre to rum. She waited a long time, all the way dinner At this time, the family was usually not very peaceful. Every meatime from Hansen to the help in the house, everyone was on edge When it was time to eat Mia hadst appeared at the dining table, and she was constantly checking the time on her phone, mading for Andre Naomi and Bruce had already arrived at the table, and Hansen arved shortly after Only Ma was missing The butler immediately instructed a maid, ¡°Go get Ms. Mu down for dinner¡± When Misheard the knock on the door while wading the immediately went to open it, thinking she could lease. But when she opened the door, she saw it was the ¡°Ms. Mia, its time at Mr. Hansen is waiting for you in the dining room Mis checked the time, she asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Andre?¡± Mr Andie hasn¡¯t returned yet.¡± Ma nced at the door, then at the living room. She was a bit hesitant about whether to go or not. The maid kindly reminded her Ms. Ma, Bruce is here today 100 Mia nodded, Alight, I go down now¡± She didnt dy for too long, and soon appeared in the dining room A i she appeased, all the help around held their breath. It seemed that everyone wa? dei nervos Mia optimistically thought, her position in the Cedito family was due to her capabilities. If someone else matted into the Cedillo family, they would naturally be vely cautious. However, she managed to instill a sense of ¡°Year¡± in everyone. All thanks to Naomi She wasn¡¯t a coward, and never backed down from a problem. Miscast a nce with her eyes at the grave Hansen, and sat down by the rules, not daring to speak at will Chapter 45 Chapter 45 Maybe it was because He had locked is up or because Naomi had found out Mia was moving out with Andre, she didnt pick a fight tonight Everyone¡¯s here Let¡¯s start eating Hansen said, and people started eating: There were over a doren dishes on the table, but Mia only touched two in front of her. One. She wasnt hungry, two, she wanted to keep a low profile, giving Naomi no excuse to pick a fight. She was leaving soon, and she really didn¡¯t want to arque with Naomi today Halfway through the meal someone arrived at the front hall. Then, a few unfamiliar voices were heard We are you home? A clear voice reached everyone¡¯s ears More followed. Hansen put down his fork, stood up, and said with a smile, ¡°Es Conner and the guys¡± ¡°¡®Conner¡±¡±Who¡¯s that? Ma was surprised Hansen quickly went out to greet them. Mua nced at Naomi, who was also looking at her Mia¡¯s heart started to race. Oh no, they were going to have another argument. ¡°What are you looking at? Go on out there Despite Nam unfriendly one, it was a reminder to ¡° ¡°Conner, Mars, Asher, Teddy, they all Andre friends¡± Ma quickly put down her fork and rushed out. She identally knocked a di¨¢it, which wobbled and made a noise. Bruce looked at Naomi unexpectedly ¡°What are you looking at me for? Nom said ¡°You think I¡¯m going to argue with her again? I need a break, too don¡¯t how the energy to argue with her today¡± She wasn¡¯t young anymore she didn¡¯t have the energy of a young girl. Every time she argued with Main took her a long time to calm down. Her period had even dyed recently Mia was leaving the Cedo family there no one topete with her for position, and her titude towards Mishad improved somewhat Even if she didn¡¯t say it, Bruce, her husband, could understand He suddenly said. That¡¯s good Everyone can calm In the front hall Mia rushed out and when she saw Hansen¡¯s back, the slowed down and followed him carefully. Then she saw Andre, drunk, being supported by bwo men, and two othersing up to greet Hansen One of them walked in a stranger way, Mia noticed him ¡°Mr Cedilo, we all came to congratte Ander on his wedding. He didn¡¯t tell us that he got married Conner said The voice was simr to the one she heard eater, Mis knew he was Conne But how to distinguish the other three? One was Asher one was Teddy and what was the other call? Mia was trying hard to think Mars looked at Mu, was pondering, and gently nudged Conner¡¯s shoulder raising his eyebrows yfully and whispering, ¡®Do you think that girls Andre¡¯s new Conner¡¯s swept behind Hansen as well, stopping at Mia. He whispered to Mars, Doesn¡¯t look like it. She s to be student. How could a student get N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Hansen was standing close to them, he coughed awkwardly, then tumed around and gently said to Mia. ¡°Mia,e he let me introduce you¡± Mia immediately stepped forward and obediently stood next to Hansen. Her obedience made Hansen wery pleased. Chapter 46 Chapter 46 ¡°This is Conner a kid from the Nettleton family in Arcanilethe Snext him as the son of Roberto Arrowood. The two with Andreare Teddy and Asher, we are all close family Inends and they are all Andre¡¯s bodies¡± Then Hansen started to introduce the gel next to him, ¡°This is Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Andre, a tipy squinted his eyes and gazed at his wife Befom Hans could even finish, he asked, ¡°Did you pi ss anyone off while was out?¡± Ma was speechles. Her husband really knew how to put her on the spot! Andre, not hearing Mia¡¯s response, arrogantly asked. ¡°Speak up, who did you p iss off today 7 lence. So this was what Andre was when he was drunk The living room fell into a to look at their drunk friend teach them a lesson¡± including his four friends, everyone was taken aback. They all tumed They were puzzled Wasn¡¯t it your wife who pis sed people off? Why would you stand up for her? Mabinked and pursed her lips, shaking her head adorably. The be a good gut Didnt p iss anyone off! Now without Hansen¡¯s introduction, everyone knew the well behaved girl was their fiend¡¯s wife But! She locked very young, like a student. Conner asked. Hansen, if I may, is she of age?¡± That was a pretty bold question Hansen coughed awkwardly, and Mia, sening his difort, spoke um 20 years old, of manageable age¡± Then she introduced herself to everyone, ¡°Hello, everyone. I¡¯m Andre¡¯s muda, Mu And, drunk as a skunk, was mobbly on his feet. Naome and Bruce only justamised Naomi, a mamed woman for many years, immediately noticed something was off. Only she could see the unusual atmosphere Despite her reluctance, the stepped forward to remind Ma, ¡°You should go and suppon Andre¡± Mis turned around in confusion, her eyes widened Why? After a while, Ma finally realized that as his wife, she should be supponing And She gave an embarra**ed smile, realizing she hadn¡¯t thought of it. She trotted over to Teddy and Achet, looking at her husband sandwiched between mem, extended her hands, unsure of what to do Teddy and Asher seemingly enjoying her confusion, let go simultaneously. Andre leaned forward, falling right into Ma¡¯s s ¡°Oh my G od¡± Mia sta gged back two steps under his weight before regaining her bnce -Everyone bughed at herment, even Naomi who had never liked her. Andre slung an arm around Mia¡¯s slender shoulders. ¡°Takemeto our foom¡± Hansen quickly chimed in ¡°Mia, take Andre back¡± Miained. ¡°He¡¯s too heavy, I can¡¯t carry him. Please help Ms Mia Hansen said The butler stepped forward toast Andre. However, Andre waved him off. Tonly need her.¡± Mia fel helpless. How could the possibly take care of him by herself? Didn¡¯t healize that when he was drunk, he weighed a tot And didn¡¯t seem to understand his Muisiems. He leaned on Mu¡¯s shoulder for support and stag gered towards the elevator. After struggle, Mia finally managed to get him to their room She wrapped her arm around Andre¡¯s waist, guiding him towards the bed. just crash on the couch for a bit! Chapter 47 Chapter 47 Mia protested. ¡°The couch is too small for you. If you fall off in the middle of the night I¡¯m not strong enough to help you up Hurry up and roll over, you¡¯re squashing my hand! You b better just stay put on the bed¡­ She had her arm around Andre¡¯s waist to help him walk steadily. But when she got him onto the bed, his weight pulled her down with him. His backnded on her hand My the beside him, her left a pinned beneath him. She let out a nigh. ¡°Andre, rollover You¡¯re squashing my Even though Andre was drunk, he was somewhat aware. Feeling ufortable helled over to his right On his right was Ma. Suddenly Mia found herself pined under Andre At the same time her arm was finally free But Mame ¡°Andre, are you taking advantage of me? You¡¯re crushing me, get off.¡± Ma tried to push Andre off, but it seemed like a losing batte Andre found that lying on his stomach seemed morefortable than lying on his back Only the constant chatter was getting on his never ¡°Stop talking¡± won¡¯t stop talking Andre. If you kill me by suffocation, you¡¯re responsible, hurry up Before Mia could finish, she was let in shock. The heat on her lgsreminded her, she had been kissed The strong smel of alcohol wafted from his breath, her heart pounded ematically, as if ready to jump out. Her hands forgot to push him away the hand on her waist ightened, almost breaking her in half Mia¡¯s first reaction after the kiss was to her waist. She tied to pry Andre¡¯s hand off. As the girl struggled underneath him, his am loosened slightly. Mas waist was finally relieved. She pushed herself up on Andre¡¯s chest, ¡°I think I might be the first woman killed by her own husband¡± And looked at His gazes were not as med as before, at this moment, his gazes were clear and Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. bright, as if he were not drunk at all Ma thought of the kids just now and her face tumed red instantly. ¡°You did that on purpose¡± Andres Adam¡¯s apple bobbed, he grabbed Mu¡¯s want and rolled over, this time he was on the bottom, and Mia was on top. Finally, she wasn¡¯t the one being crushed, now it was much easier for her to woggle free from Ande -She propped herself up on Andres chest and easily got up Why was it so easy? Looking back, Mia noticed the hand around her waist had been let go. And Andre, on the bed, he had already fallen asleep Mia fet relieved, thank goodness he drunk. She left him on the bed and walked out the door. Hearing the door shut, the man in the bed immediately opened his eyes. This time the rity in his eyes was mal The man lying on the bed sat up, he stretched his neck and stared nkly ahead. The impulse just now had taken him by surprise. He only membeling something soft beneath him, like a fluffy pillow, which felt prettyfy. But how did it lead to a sudden? Chapter 48 Chapter 48 Ander was feeling a ma**ive headache. He was pressing his forehead with his hand, nothing his temple with his thumbs, just unable to wrap his head around why he had kissed her Just one kiss, nigh! But it seemed like he had kissed her p What a mess he was! Was this typical behavior of a dunk man? Downstar, Mia was taking deep breaths behind the staircase, trying to get her heartbeat back to normal. Then she stepped out of the elevator ima 15 meet Andre¡¯s buddies Hans asked is Andre asleep? This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. ¡°Yeah he¡¯s out like a light¡± Mit next to Hansen, unsure how to deal with her husband¡¯s pals. Honestly, they were all sturgess to her Mars was the first rather lips looking different. He nudged Conner subtly to look at Mia¡¯s lies. Conner nced over then gave Mars a nod Mars: ¡°Why are you nodding? Conner thought to himself. No wonder Andre¡¯s wife had been gone so long in the room, she was warplying her makeup. That lipstick in a dead greinway Mars did want to bother with him anymore, so he moved on to tap Achers arm. Asher shrugged off with a nce. I¡¯m not blind! Their little as were making Teddy feel awkward. He got up to say goodbye. ¡°Ha**en, une Arsirea safe and sound at home we better heat cut well drop by another time just to check on you¡± Asher and Conner quickly stood up ¡°Hansen, we¡¯ll be cut way. Well it another me Mars was still nursing his bum from where Andre han dicked him. E was still hurting. He got up slowly, and Donner generously let him a hand. The Cedillos also go! up ¡®t seen you guys in a wiele. Hansen said. ¡°Dropy more often haven¡¯t seen you (radi Mia followed bend Hansen to see the guys out Mars¡® strange posture as he got into the car piqued Ma¡¯s cunosity Once the car was out of sight. Ma finally let out a sigh of relel. Hansen Sumed to look at her and she looked back at him, ¡®Consk you something Fiveaway Mia asked curfu.aly Did Mars break his tailbone?¡± Hanseno, can ask Andru when he wakes up¡± Mig wanted to ask something more. of Hansen beat her to it you have something to ask just 5s no need to beat around the bush¡± In that case, Madian¡¯t hold back She asked what the was cohous about ¡°What does Asher¡¯s name mean? Everyone around burst intoughter when they heard Ma¡¯s question hasm couldn¡¯t help butugh, ¡°Cummy¡± Hansen was also smiling ¡°Ather is not ¡°Treasure¡°¡± ¡°Oh, so his name isti Tmasure¡± With a look at Mias ips, Hansen chuckled then awkwardly sured away and walked into the foyer Nam followed Hansen dourly. As she pa**ed Mix, Mia stopped her, ¡°Thank you She had helped her, so she should thank her But that didn¡¯t mean the could forget everything that had happened befor Naomi sad coldly, ¡°You actually know how to say thank you ¡°You helped me, I should thank you. But that doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯ve resolved our issue¡± in the bedroom. Mia sat on the bed her arms wrapped around her knees, deep in thougly, ¡°Somethings off I¡¯m real help him takeoff his shoes and socks¡± Yet, she looked at the shoes and ck socks by the bed and ponded, ¡°But he was already asleep when licht¡± Studying her husband¡¯s face, Masat on the edge of the bed, and acteraled her index finger to gently touch Andres face, Wiley, are you awake?¡± Chapter 49 Chapter 49 x15021 Andre shut his eyes ignoring he ¡°Are you sleep¡± There was a hint of happiness in Mia¡¯s voice. Looking at the ¡°deeply as leed¡¯ Andre, theughed and said, ¡°My mom once said a drunk man is like a dead pig and you can¡¯t wake him up.¡±. She chuckled ¡°Oh man you didn¡¯t expect to end up my clutches, did you?! Mi reached out and pinched Andre¡¯s cheek. She knead Andre¡¯sce as if it were y Doh Her joy grew as she yed ¡°You bullied me before, now it¡¯s my tum to get hack at you. 7¡¯5 METH DOTale.¡± She became even bolder once she was sure Andre wouldn¡¯t wakeup Mia moved closer to him for a beer gp She nned to use Andre some more She pinched his nose, cutting off his breath. After a few seconds, she quickly let go. The man in the bed clenched his fist tightly, unnoticed by ha If it wasn¡¯t for thebatement of the kiss just now, hed have pretended to be asleep. Otherwise, he would have crushed her by now! Mataunted ¡°nute so tough, why don¡¯t you get up and fight back?¡± After having her fl of teasing her husband¡¯s face. Mai propped her chin on her hand and began to admire his face. ¡°Actually now that look closely at your face, you¡¯re quite handsome¡± She couldnt help but poke Andre¡¯s check again, ¡°ut while you are handsome, I don¡¯t love you¡± Her words alerted the pretending to sleep Andre. He needed to find out why this girl mamed him as soon as possible Ma mumbled to herself. ¡°Andre, don¡¯t get too co cky. One day (1) be stronger than you ll be even tougher The man pretending to sleep chuckled only Her stronger: nim? No matter what she did, she could never surpa** him Ma continued, ¡°I can¡¯t stand the way you and your father act, always threatening me with buying out my family¡¯spany. Your dad just fused me to many you. and on our wedding night you threatened me to tell the truth Told hit puddat believe Andre began in have some suspicions. He continued to pretend to sleep, Cunous to see how much more this g it would reveal. ¡°Thankfully you¡¯re as eep, otherwise I wouldn¡¯t dare say all this. Just you wait, one day I will defeat you and threaten you with buying out yourpany Hmm. how should I threaten you?¡± Mia looked up pondering. ¡°How should threaten you.¡± Andres Throat boboed, he thought to himself. I mamed a dreamer. T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Mia jumped up in surprise, pointing at Andre¡¯s throat, ¡°Your throat moved¡± And didn¡¯t speak Mia shook the man¡¯s body. Wakeup, I know you¡¯re pretending in sleep¡± Andre remained motions. Mia frowned, was he really asleep? She ced her hand on the mons throat she gotly priced Andi¡¯s treat, ¡°Move again, let me see¡± When her icy hand touched his throat Andre felt extremely ufortable, and his breathing became somewhat rapid. Just when he was about to lose his patience there was a knock at the door.. Ma quickly withdrew her hand, and called out to the door, ¡®Who is it?¡± ¡°Ms. Mia, it¡¯s me, I¡¯ve brought dinner for you and Me Andre¡± Ma responded, whispering Perfect timing, I¡¯m staring¡± Then the ran to open the door The man on the bed heaved a sigh of relief, he opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling Chapter 50 Chapter 50 This woman pinched his face, his nose, poked his threat, and even dreamed of acquiring Cello Inc, This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. threatening him, when he¡¯s asleep Such an ignorant crazy woman! Mis opened the bedroom door epting the te, and politely thanked the maid, ¡°Thank you go have your meal too She didn¡¯t close the door herself, the maid did it for her as she left. She put the te on the table Mi stared at the food in the te, rubbing her hands together in excitement, Tinally, a decent meal Just as she was about to eat, she saw the man on the bed. Should the wake him or not ¡°Never mind, 11 let him sleep. A little hunger won¡¯t kill him. Consider it lesson!¡± Even though Mi said this, she still divided the food on her te in hall, one for her and the other for the man on the bed Andresquinted, seeing the young gil hunched over her meal. She was eating with gusto, as if she were starved She was picking up more food before she even swallowed what was in her mouth. This girl seemed to have been much more reserved eating in the diering t Andre was simply too tred. He adjusted his position, closed his eyes, and began to rest. 10 pm Andrewoke up, his drunkennesspletely gone As he sat up. he noticed a fan ight in the room. The girl was ashoop on the single sofa Her sleeping position was quitefortable Head and shoulders against the armrest, legs draped over the other side, a cu shion in her arms. She fell asleep without even changing out of her day clothes. There were a few suitcases on one side of the sofa, and Andse remembered that he was supposed to help her move tonight, but he had been drunk by those four man Theram was to see what kind of person Mis was for the Cedillo family. If he hadn¡¯t been drunk, he would not have let Mis meet these four Andre¡¯s gaze was deep. It seemed he had to teach these people a lesson. He got out of bed and went to the bathroom Locking down, he saw a pair of his own slippers by the bed. His shoes and socks had been taken by Mis. He nced the girl, then put on his slippers and headed to the bathroom. Mia, stared by the noise, woke up from the sofa. She looked at the man who had just woken up and sad. You¡¯re awakel Mia, fearing that he might stumble and fall got up from the sofa and walked towards Andhe, her hand pulling his am in a leging geste ¡°Consider me your support When you want to go take you there¡± Andre pulled back his hand. I don¡¯t need it.¡± ¡°What if your fall1 Don¡¯t be stubbom. You¡¯ve leaned on me before.¡± She grabbed his arm again and put it on her shoulder ¡°Where do you want to go?¡± This time And didn¡¯t pull his hand back. Instead, he led the way to the bathroom Once they were in the bathroom, he stood in front of the toilet without moving Mis looked up at him, also motionless. ¡°Do you really not understand, or are you pretending not to understand?¡± Andre asked. Madconfused blinking. Suddenly she saw the toilet and instantly realized what was about to happen. Im sorry¡± With that Mia Bolted out of the bathroom and mmed the door shi Andre turned his head, watching her rush away, and couldn¡¯t help butugh. Not long after, Mia heard the sound of running water from the bathroom outside the door Chapter 51 Chapter 51 She pressed her ear against the door and asked, ¡°Andre, are you taking a shower?¡± Do you feel dizzy? Should I get someone to help you?¡° Andre. ¡°Not feeling day? Ma poitely and night then, just holler if you need help? You mean to send my back¡± Andre Teased. Next thing he knew the bathroom door was kicked by Mia. Andre could feel the kick was more Ikeamed at him 11 call Hansen to scrub your back for you She sat on the pouch her mind turning Would he remember anything once he sobered up? If he didn¡¯t remember he wouldn¡¯t know about their ks. But if he did remember things would be pretty awkward between them. Malocked up and sighed. Her first kiss was just gone like ther Before long Andre really called het ¡°Max¡± ¡°What up¡± You¡¯re not really asking me to scrub your back. are you?¡± Andre asked. Where¡¯s the bath towel¡± 1 put it away I thought we were ere leaving tonight, hang on, go get it for you¡± Man to the cloakroom found the white bath towel the rod put away, held in terms and quickly walked to the bathroom door. She knocked on the door. Can you cra ck open the door as I can hand you the bath towel?¡± Andre swallowed, he didn¡¯t even grab a bath towel and cajamas while taking a shower! Now he was only relying on her help. Andre unlocked the door and marked it open he saw Ma¡¯s eyes rightly closed as he reached out for the towel. He found amusing. Tying the bath towel arnung, he walked out of the bathroom Ma was sturned. He was half naked, and his muscles were viable which she could see very clearly Maen noticed the hair on his abdomen and Her face turned from white to pink, and finally to red. Andre was wiping his hair enjoying the change of Mus face roker. ¡°You¡¯re blush ng like that, then why are you looking at me Mathbornly, ¡°I¡¯m not blushing, When go swimming, some guys wear even less than you¡± Then why are your Pans Boler Limbot Ma made an excuse and turned around to leave. She didn¡¯t look at Andre anymore. Andre chucked and went to the cloakroom to change to his pajamas. When he came DIE. Muh takeady put his diner on the table ¡®s not that fresh anymore, just ake do with it. It¡¯s lode and the ser vants are off. No one c ocking for you! Andre sat on the couch Ma handed him a fork, ¡°You can eat. I harmit touched the food left for you¡± Andre looked at her and deliberately asked. ¡°How did you eal?¡± in the bedroom too, but I put the food on another ce. I didn¡¯t touch these tes¡± Andre asked agan How did I get back?¡± full of curiosity and exploration: Andre pretended to have a headache, ¡°forgot¡± Ma¡¯s eyes it up Great, he really didnt remember. She anded mischievously Then Mia posted and said, ¡®I don¡¯t know how you get back, but you started singing in wing room after you got drunkst night, and made us your audience. You can made un apud after you finished singing¡± Andre was speechless Ma thought Andre couldn¡¯t believe it, and emphasized, ¡°Really if you don¡¯t believe me you can as Hansen You even bowed politely to us after you finished singing Andreasked with a smile, ¡°What song did I sing?¡± Mia suddenly realized something was wrong, her eyes of surprise, ¡°You don¡¯t even remember that? Andre dont remember¡± Middenver She swung her little fist and lightly knocked on Ander¡¯s shoulder. ¡°So you want me to ang for you so you canugh at mg?¡± 1 didnt think that way, that¡¯s your own quess ¡°Andre responded teasingly, but he voice was full of endless char 117 This made Mublush ¡°So you¡¯re lying to me? The man asked Ma awkwardly blinked her eyes, her fost immediately pulled back from the mans shoulder, ¡°You¡¯ve been eating for so long, you must be thirsty ill get you some water to drink, so you won¡¯t choke He had only been eating for less than three minutes, Andre watched hot running away and shook his Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. head with a smile When she reached the long room, Mastopped when she saw Naomi Naomi was also stunned when she samhet Both of them were afraid of quarreling with each other Coincidentally, they had the same destination. Both of them silently got their own mater by the water dispenser It was so quiet that the only round that could be heard was the water running from the water disperse When are you guys moving out tomorrow?¡± Naomi looked at the water outlet. Her tone was no longer sharp. Maybe it was becouse it was night, and she was bred She looked a lot safter Mia: ¡°Depends on when Andre sobers up¡± Naomi finished getting water, she held up her ** and said to Ms. Donte back after youle Whatever the Cedido family owes Andre, I want stand in the way. But there¡¯s only onedy of the house, and that¡¯s me. If you want topete with me, it¡¯ll just make you book silly We can get along peacefully, even if we don¡¯t like each other at least we can maintain surface harmony But if you get greedy and want to swall Ceilo Inc. whole. ¡°What are you talking about? Ma was very confused Whaty of the house, what share, and what swallow? ¡°You don¡¯t understand what I¡¯m saying? Naomiughed sarcastically, ¡°You¡¯re clearly trying to kick me out of the Cedillo family and then you be thedy of the Ced to family, so you and your husband can swallow Cedido Inc. whok¡± She held Andre¡¯s water cup with her gaze frankly directed at Naomi never wanted topete wi you for the position of thedy of the Cedillo family Don¡¯t frame me And the thing about Cedilo inc, that¡¯s up to the Cedito family has nothing to do with me. I¡¯ve never thought aboutpeting with you for anything Dont the deceived by your delusions. Have you forgotten what you said when you bullied Jin?¡± her? Ma pointed to herself and asked in surprise Napmisad 1 know Andre¡¯s a catch and all you girls are into him. You¡¯ve been throwing your weight around, threatening Jillian, even iming you¡¯re gonna s natch the title of Thedy of the Cedillo family Now you¡¯re gonna demy ever saying all that in front of me? Ma was the type who liked to clear me Tu She told Naomi Let¡¯s get one thing sight, I now get why you¡¯ve always had in forme always picking on things up between us¡° Gout there¡¯s a snake in the gra** ste Despite her young age, Mia wasn¡¯t a bit frightened, her eyes full of determination ¡°swear on my life, I¡¯ve never said I wanted to be thedy of the Ced family or that was going to take over Cedido incall on my own. I¡¯ve never said anything out of line about Jilian ether. If I¡¯m lying, may G od stikeme down. Please tell me how Jillian described my words to you Chapter 52 Chapter 52 Naomi stared at Marwin¡¯s solemn face, thinking to herrell that people counter emotion in the eyes. She saw ummly in Wins Nom Suddenly remembered that right in the hotel her husband Inkl her he¡¯d been yed by Jin, but she didn¡¯t believe him Mia also said that someone was trying to drive a wedge between her and Naumi ¡°Soulter yougat ¡°ome that day. Naomi asked Ma, ¡°What did you and Jillian about in the aliemoon that made her cry?¡± ¡°That day, I was the one who sought her out¡± Andre came out from behind. He was in the house waiting for Ma to bring water and ended us wating the fished as med He went out to find Ma and as soon as he stepped out, he saw the ti dies taking in the living room Andre hurned downstars. He also overheard their conversation. He didn¡¯t show himself, and he hd in the shadows. Slowly, Andre understood their When Mapetiy_stered Mia, he said to Naomi, ¡°Naomi, Mia and all an only met three times. I was present each time. They never arg. That day I just amed to talk to nt Naomi locked in at the tall Andre, ¡°Was it really you¡± ¡°Yes, it was me. That day I spoke to Jillian to adese her not to waste her time on a love that wont lead anywhere. She has strong feelings for me, but i already have a wile Mu¡¯ Mia looked up at her husband next to ther Naomi couldnt be She blinked rapidly. It was yo beer that day you father told me to get of hat I sent Hansen away and left you two alone Andre andwerd, ¡°Why would I lie to you? I just heard most of your conversation, I know who you¡¯ve been worrying about. Tonight I can tell you th clearly, the of Lary of Cedilo, my wile doesn¡¯t ware it will never touch the part of Geile in that belongs to Leo¡± Knowing Andre and Jillian had nothi to do with each other, Mia was as shocked as Haumi The Igrilyhe Andre. You dont like Jillian) Andreasked Ma Do you think would marry someone else I already have someone Hover? And she was that someone else Mthought for a moment she looked at Andre again, then shook her head. If Andie had someone he loved he definitely wouldnt have mamed hat ¡°You should have sad so market. I had called you all sorts of bad names in mij bears! Ma was stra griforward, and she spoke without thinking. After she finished, she was a little stunned. Andreughed and asked, ¡°What did you tall me Although he wasughing. Mui She once mutakenly thought and still marrying her, he was a wing Lan and Andre were lovers and she once cursed Andre in her heart, thinking he was a jerk. Hanngaged already Even the kiss not long ago. Ma had found in hard to ept. Turned out. Andie and ultion were pund tionis friends. Everything that happened was due to Naomi¡¯s misleading and her own imagination Mia and Andre stated at each other, her heart beat faster, and the immediately burned her face way. Then, she said to Maom, ¡°You should go back and think about this, wheater there is someone stirling things up behind your back.¡± Andre held Mia¡¯s hand and asked. Did you get the water ready? ¡°It¡¯s ready¡±Ma obediently replied, and rabed the water bottle in her hand for Andre to see ¡°You go rest Andrewalked past Naomi with Mia Only Naomi was left in the living roomst in thought In the bedroom, Andre asked again about that question, ¡°What bad names did you calme Mio bet her tongue, she smiled at Andre. It¡¯s better if you dont know. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll get angry? Andre smiled slighty ¡°If you dont tell the truth, I won¡¯t move out tomanow 1 caled you as a bad guy¡± What else? ¡°You¡¯re a m Altered the bit her pred her head, and looked regrestel. She sneakily looked up to see the man with a gloomy face, who was staring at her ¡°Stop looking at me like that, if you keep looking. I feel like you¡¯re visually vting me,¡± Andre, ¡°Co on, what else did you call me?¡± Mia shook her head, too scared to say more. ¡°My bran 1 that big, I can¡¯t think of so many curse words Andre chuckled, ¡°Your head doesnt seen smal¡¯ Tjust sign yours¡± He couldnt chat too much with Mia, if he did, he would get angry Andre took the water bottle from Mais hand, and sat on the s Why did you call me those names?¡± Because of misunderstanding you I didn¡¯t know you and Ms. Jikan had nothing to do with each other, and I didn¡¯t expect her to be so mangtive. I thought she was your girlfriend, and I thought I caused you two to break up by marrying you even felt quilly towards her Now.haha I regret it She¡¯s such a hypocrite? Ma got angry as she spoke, and unconsciously said a lot After she finished, she noticed Andre was looking at her. ¡°Why are you looking at me again? ¡°Why are you like a spaw constantly chattering? She taked too much Ma. ¡°Why are you so nosy? Vent you the one who told me to speak?¡± Even if he shut up Mia shill took the inbaren to ask, ¡°Hey, do you think my sister inw all think about this? ¡°You go ask her¡¯ ¡°You¡¯re mocking met Ma red at Andre Andre smiled, seeing him smile had Ma-quite amused. She shed Andre, giggling. ¡°Mare, don¡¯t ad on my s Im going to sleep¡± As for what Nami would think, Madidn¡¯t n to delve into it. She had exined, and even Andre had personally exined if Naomi still didn¡¯t believe they could do anything about it. She didnt care about Naomi¡¯S thoughts. Ma also understood Andre¡¯s sarcasm, he probably thought the same In another bedroom 1 on earth are you T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. on this ungodly hour?¡± s messing with me11 Naom stumbled back mo the bedroom nudging her grating husband awake. Hey babe, you told me Jr¡¯s been ying me, can you tel m Bruce fumbled for his **es on ther ghtstand and propped himself Naom wins insistent, ¡°Can you tap out of it, lount Why did you Bruce, agitated by his wife¡¯s question, finally up looking at her over for Andre, and Andre¡¯s and to Mia So. Mas her love trvale here, so of course she¡¯s uning you to strup trouble behin creating opportunties for he el! You low all that gossip stuff. in **es. ¡°Ham you not figured it out yet the time? ?Jin¡¯s at the hot Cedi family has one rule, she¡¯s not wee here in the family. She couldn¡¯t i have you not caught onto this?¡± Chapter 53 Chapter 53 14.01 Naomi asked again, ¡°Why are yo you so sure Mu doesnt ward to be the mistress of the Cedillo fandy?¡± ¡°She was forand to marry Andre Do youknow why Ma fought with you that day? Everyone hather wealers, and Mus weakness is he paints My dad threat her with her family to make het many Ardio Whyebe would a young galinha prime years inany Andre, aman she¡¯s never seent She doesn¡¯t want to get maned at also how could she care about being the metres of the Cedinly? Espust meaningless tith, It¡¯s because you care 100 much about your own dignity that you¡¯re being yed by Jhat! ¡°Was she forced to many Ande?¡± Nom singen fickened and she had suddenly understand everythin Aher Bruce finished speaking hey back down, a young enough to be our daughter, and now shes Andre¡¯s wife. Think about it, would Mr and Mrs. Irvine the Irvin family let Maget married? I also heard that the train family has reduced many coborations with otherpamers for Ma**ake, and only cooperate with old business partners. Why? Is te telus that the tram Family didn¡¯t marry oll young anymore. You should have learned to think independently by new! gher purely for honor Mcm were not Naomi deted, eitting depictedly on the edge of the bed. Upon reflection, almost everything Jill on had said in het was to her over and then to provoke her making her hostile 10wards Mia Naome also realized that Mahad always wanted to move out because she didn¡¯t want anything to do with the Cetin family. How could someons The that have recesive to be the mistress of the Cediu famdy? She was wrong Naomi thought about this until midnight, not even song when suncame up The next day, the breast table was unusually quiet Asnsen mped his hands with a damp towel, he asked Andre. ¡°We you nning to leave today¡±¡± ¡°Yeah 11 pack up after breakfast then take Ma and kann? Hansen asked, ¡°Where will you be staying? Anewly purchased marsion Thornhill Estate¡± Hansen nedded looking at Mawith a parental tone, ¡°If you re not busy,e back and vesus wen Andre¡± It seems like you¡¯re not loomad at me ¡°Ma was in a good mood an was about to have so she joked 1 Hansen didnt get mad at Man words, heughed, ¡°You te brave¡± That morning Naomi didn¡¯t say a word After breakfast, as they were about to leave, a cool McLaren parked in the front of the Dedilo tamy¡¯s house. These introd news.¡±Gentlemen madam Lackback¡± ¡°My son back ¡®Axml cssed Naomi face as the ran to the dour to get him. Seeing the grand entrance. Ma guessed th Cedravagant Mi. Leo of the Codifio family must have retune Hansen said to Mu Leo was Maveling abroad when you and Andingot married. You cantase 116 opportunity to meet him Ma nodded, she was quite curious about what heomis son asked NE Andre, however, tad id fierently, He¡¯s just a troublemakat, you dont have to meet him! Mashook her head, Tamadylike to meet him Suddenly Leo from outside. ¡°Mom, Thing you h oe of face masks, Hough for ten yours. Dud, I bought you a box of c galetes. Ev you smoke and your lungs turn ck, you won¡¯t inch there Where¡¯s grandpa?¡± Under thermoing sun abrown lured boy stood, with earings, things on his fingers, and a tattou o has thumb L es dressed like a small gangster, pointing to the surveral i un the ground and introducing what was inside each one His eyes were sharp, his facial features distinct, he was full of energy, and his skin was sightly tanned. When he smiled, his eyes charmingly curled up. He was the only grandson of the Cedillo family constantly doted on by his parents and grandfather mording anch and spoiled ar Seeing her son, hagm patted his back, ¡°Comeirade your grandpa is wanting for you inside¡± ¡°Okay mom,ted cars wil be delivering stuff to our houseter, remember to ept them for mine, I¡¯m going in to look for grandpa.¡° ¡°Aung Your uncle got mamed, and his wife is also in the house Durli scare her¡± What Unclemp Loss fral action wasril that Audie gat maried, but that Andre was at home! His rtionship win Andre was the that of a mouse and a cat When he leamed that Andie was also at home, Leo instactively warded 10 fun When Leo was bile.exeryone in the family duted on an except forhis uncle, who had a bad temper and would scold Line whenever liz saw ha No one could bear to be him, but he was kicked by his uncle. N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Ha grades we post but his parents didn¡¯t mind. On the other hand, has uncle would punish him and make him copy vanous documents. fear of Andid was a conditioned response Why are you afraid of? You didn¡¯t do anything wrong this time. He won at you¡± Naomi said Inside the house, Mia heard the famber male voice cuisine and fell went. She could never forget this voice Let¡¯s Conight¡± she asked. ?? Hansen nodded, ¡°Yes, you two men attend the same university. When the semester ris, poUTA? can go in school together Makedadly, her expression strange as she said, ¡°He probably probably do want to be withme Dutside, mother and son were so arguing. Your une got maned. You need to meet your sister inw. Your uncle, hemang men Jacon want to see her Te¡¯s not her, your uncle married someone be Leo¡¯s sleeve was about to be crumpled by his mother¡¯s puding When he heard this, he stopped. My uncle manied someone else¡± Naomi nodded ¡°Go on in and meet them, you¡¯re such a big kad now, yet you still act so child Your grande, your uncle, and your sister-inw hawa been waiting for you for ages My uncle gothiced so suddenly? Lepelled in the yard as if he had just discovered a new world ke Columbus ly The men Inside the house, Mia shyly lowered her head, hoping Lee would he too shocked by herter. Her procr action piqued Andre¡¯s curiosity quietly observed his wile. ht. You better g h ¡°ow¡± Leo was gen,nely curious about what kind of woman made l es hard hearted uncle fat for has to be decided to check them out He shook ofthe melle¡¯s hard Mom, step fugging my sleeve. I¡¯m going in now. Pa**ing under the eaves, Leg entered the hall, Three people were sting on the sofa Hansen a majestic as a ways. Ned to him, Andre, who Leo chriss feared the most. And then there was. Hey, Len I¡¯m your sistem-low, Mat Manises hand to queet Leo. Chapter 54 Chapter 54 When saw Mia in the room, he let out a panicked yet. It was like he had seen something that scored the hell out of him. Mashed & be livet smile hiry dude, what¡¯s up?¡± The entire room was gobsmacked Everyone was staring at Mia and Leo. Even his uncle, Andre, was taken aback, were his wile and nephew **mates? Out of the blur, his most fearsome uncle got hitched to his most leared **mate. Leo turned to wanting to bah out of this pickle, thinking to himself. ¡°better safe than sorry¡± Mia and Andre both nor in unison. ¡°Celback here!¡± They exchanged a nce as newlyweds. Leo was stoked to go home, only to be hit with some bad news on his first day back First bit of bad news, his uncle was home Second bit of hat news, Mu was at his house. Third bit of bad news his uncle manned Ma Leaked his good t Everyone in the room was dumbstruck; the tone Mauned in address Leo hinted tomeurfoished business between them. Hamrim was the first to ask, ¡°Ma you and Leo are **mates? Mia nodded, ¡°We hear **mates since grade school. Elementary real middle school, high school **mates throughout Leo added in downte. In Muchuckled, ¡°Yes, we¡¯ve been **mates all along¡± Seeing his wifes awkwardughter, Andre formed his bows. His wife and nephew had been **mates for over a decade? They were seated together for the first time in third grade. L es was the big shot at school Wren te and were seated together he bega-bossing her around. Ma dran the desk for me, organize mycker, and N?velDrama.Org owns all content. do my homework. If youdon¡¯t beat you up¡± Miretorted, ¡°You want to beat me up? ¡°Got a problem with that, huh?¡± Mustood up, stamping on the chair and swung a pundial Lecs head Before he could reacts grabbed his hair, smashing him onto the trble. ¡°You boss me amand? Who do you think you are?¡± That was the first time le got beaten up by Mia. That rodent at a deep imprint in his chidroud memory. Since then he was in charge of cleaning Mu¡¯s deak arganzing her locker, and even doing her hon In middle school, he shot up in height. He was the tabest among his piens, which gave him newfound confidence. He remembered the humation from his childhood and wanted to get back at Ma So he challenges her win, youe to be my desk mate, cleaning my d ick, organining my locker, and doing my homework if I lose, serve you in your **. How about that?¡¯ Maled out her terms to Lru. Leo, brimming with confidence, challenged Ma In front of everyone in therge **room, within five seconds. he was foured by Ma, ciriching his groin, unable to get up Later, the sacher sent hun to the hospital. After two days. Leo was back by Mur¡¯s side resuming & bleef servitude. The third time wasther formal showdown it was during the freshman year in high school ume fighting sk, so he didn¡¯t think it would be hard to licata pil slter than him. However, what he didn¡¯t expect was had been learning Taskwondo since kindergarten and hat be a Taekwondo master over the years Not only That time,Leo took three days oll sick to rest at home. Aller school started, he refered to Wix¡¯s ** and began to aber sieves. in colege, Lea fitaly got his freedom, he leh ecstatic. Hisfortable freshman year mode han forget hansell, forget the tough character that Mia was But fate yed a cruel joke on him-Ma turned out to be sterw How could Leo ept this? Who would want aded the person Maknew Leo mas semmiscing about her domising ways, she didnt expect the boy she tuled a non childhood to be the famous and only grandson of the Geololum ly Most importantly, he had be her nephen This kind of fate was destined 1ts that my connection with the Cedilo famly was destined from the start. Ma suddly said. Thisment drew all of Andre¡¯s attention. He was the ore she married, why did the equate being **mates w the Cedillo family? Andie¡¯s game at his rephew shifted, ¡°Come sit properly Iris nontroduce you to your nut-in- May mouth twitched upwards to a smile, her eyes never leaving L es his nephew to having a¡¯bond with Leo was mutari to go om, Uncle, don¡¯t marry her. She¡¯s a Betul tyrant.) Ma ¡°What did lever do to you? When we were in school together, didn¡¯t I treat you well She made him do chores, homework, even got him to buy food and fork for her Thanks to Lea, Mia had never done any homework or cleaning throughout her school years The stores could go on all night Hansen called his grandes back to sit with him. ¡°Say with grandpa Your uncle won¡¯t dawdzanything to you¡¯ Ma¡¯s gaze noli L es, and she asked with a sale. Ten, so your scared of my husband huh?¡± The vibrant young man was now timid as a mouse, sitting quilly next to Hansen No one expected Me and Leo to know eachother. The parties involved also found surpris ng especially Mia finding out Lea was a part of the prestigious Cedito family was quite amusing. ??? Andre and Mia originally nned to move out in the morning, but due to Leas retum, they deaded to move in the afternoon During lunch, Leo gave Mis a look. They had been **mates for ten years so their understanding of each other were spot on. He post worked, and Ma know what he was up Mafound anoppurtunity to sneak off to the starcase. Seeing no one in hackyard of the Sed family the house paying attention to them. Leo goes u¡¯s west and heated for the his nephew and wife ran off This was caught by a man standing on the seront foot. Andre ressed his hands us the rating watching the direct in his eyes no longer gentle. He led to act as if nothing happened, walked down the stairs and followed the section to the hacky¡¯s At the backyard cabin. Mu mended her hand out of Leo¡¯s pop Tude, lim your aunt inw now, you should keep a decent destance¡± ath calling you¡¯aun!¡± Ma.how could you matty that guy my unclet¡± Le s challenged Ma Maju chuckled ¡°Shouldnt you be worked about me spling the beans about your school drama to your family!¡± was milled. It 541 wing to see Ma mattying his uncle You could mamed anyone e¡¯te, aby mpwide!¡± ¡°there a proclem with me marrying your uncle?¡± Le whispered something in Ma¡¯s war, Really?¡± an eyes grow wide with luck, her hands covering her mouth. ¡°My husband, pour unde, realy 7 Chapter 55 Chapter 55 14.02 Leo nodded, overheard it from my grandpa, but pleaar dat sp the beans only told you because you¡¯re his daughter-inw Marodded back, Nowemes, want blob this big dea to anyone¡± They huddled Ingether whispering, with a guy stand behind them under the zing sun, hands shoved in his pockets, watching them Mu please do into my family that you¡¯ve beaten me three times¡¯ ¡°Chwart make you are face. Besides, nd to your family your mom would lose her cool¡± Ma walked up to L es, rising on hermes to pat his shoulder, ¡°I never sawiting that your uncle is Andre, I just knew you were the son of an official didn¡¯t know you were also the son of a pon ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why youmarried my uncle¡± ¡°Good question. Idkor in know why I married your uncle,¡± This absurd mainage only Hansen knew the real reason But he kept quet. A small cabin the backyard caught Mials attention, ¡°Hey, see that cat Sure have, my uncle has it but for me Ma.¡± So, the doodles on the wall, did you do them?¡± We you asking because you¡¯ve been in there too?¡± They both looked sirensed hat you ever been e They felt a hond instantly like they found someone who shared the plight. Land Leo shook hands, ¡°Sn, we havedres ¡°By the way, Mis, you te a newlywed, why did you go who that cubin¡± Leo WAS LUDUS He¡¯d only be oked innere for unforgivable mistakes Mawas a newlywed, why was stepurested? ¡°you may not know, but your mom and it have had a lot of squaticles We even had a catfight? Leo Thanks for not going all out on my mom¡¯ ¡°No need to thank me I just didn¡¯t know she was your mom. I¡¯m moving out this whernoon, war¡¯t have any motetun as Den asked cur ously, ¡°¡°Why did you quarrel with my mom? I know my moms character well, she cares about her reputation. She wont pick fights easily¡± tsalong story I just figured out the crue of the problemst night.¡±¡® Leo spotted his uncle standing in the sun. He couldnt befarvet, rubbed his eyes and looked again, Indeed it was his uncle. Ma, why yule standing in the sun wiching unt Mafumed and raped her hand to child her eyes, squirting at her husband, she said ¡°Maybe he¡¯s curbing Sounds legit Andre couldnt stand it anymore and walked wards them Seeing Andre approaching with a frown, despine the banng sunmet they both felt ach. They both stood straight, rockies wating In dressing down from the drill sergeant Andre walked us to them looking stem, and asked gruffy ¡°Didn¡¯t get enough of the sun while trading, still want to sunbathew leyou let ¡°Unde, you¡¯re sunbathing dou¡± Andrecked at Mu, Watch yourself. Hes your nephew.¡± With that, Andre took Ma¡¯s hand and left the backyard Mia stumbled as she was pulled, and she reary fell Andre picked her up, ¡°You should watch your step¡± When Mis was gagged away she turned to L es, maulling. Your uncle is pis sed¡± And noticed the taction between his nephew and wile he gave a lug again. ¡°A¡± Mia stumbled aga and Andre simply held her wetal and puded. In the dining room, r. was tire for lunch Andie didnt want to stay any longer. He was in a muddle, feeling that his wife and nephew were lon Hansen spoke up. Why thench? Leo just got back. Let¡¯s have a family meal. No one leaves at noon¡± My was the closest to Andre, and could feel his unease, so she stayed quel in tur time, Len trolled in ledinig mom, taking his se24, without greng Andre a word. Hecause no matter what he said, everyone works trow Tws. 1/2 When picked up the fork ready to eat, the tattoosght thumb caught his mother¡¯s attention Namported at her son¡¯s hard, Leo, whats this about How could you pick up a bad habit ¡°Mom, E¡¯s junt a tattoos called being trendy¡± Lea sad Napmitted to Ander, ¡°Andre, k ook at Leo, we can¡¯t control him at alt That was the Cedillo family for you. Every time Antre came back to the mansion was mostly to discipline his nephe Sewing Andre¡¯s ce, Leo quickly this hand behind him. Uncle Imofage now You said when I turned eighteen Ether chop off your hand with the tatton or remove the ico Leo was disappointed, and looked at Ma, hoping his new sister inw would speak up for him was clueless. Why are you looking at The one who told you to chop off your hand, not m Andre, give you three minutes if you can¡¯t wash off that tattoo. I get someone to help you¡± ¡°No need, I can mas hit off in a minute¡±Lep looked downcast he went to the bathroom and cam Ma realized. ¡°Bon was a Leo would never get a real tattoo But inputut aft med to criticize his grandsons appearance. ¡°You¡¯re a bay Why do you ¡°Grandpa, it¡¯s caled fashion, it¡¯s trendy. All of us young people do it.¡± Lea defended Hansen, Andre, you des Andre looked at Leo, not saying a word, despring his nephew ackan hand no trace of the tattoo and put it on his hard He even bought aning ran caring? Take it off now! Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Uncle, I¡¯m twenty now, Yousad you would control me after Ie of age.¡±Leo was making hisst stand Andre looked at his nephew coldly. ¡°Do you want me to say it again? L es didn¡¯t argue back obediently taking off his ratings. Hansefedressed his satisfaction, ¡°Thats bemet, now you look like a proper student Bruce was always pened by his son¡¯s hat which dye your hair back always a not of colors. He couldnt tell what color it was this time, but it definitely wasn¡¯t usual ¡°Co Lea instinctively looked at Andre also turned to look at her husband ather buch Mia thought to self. My husband really something just a low words and one look and Leo behaves. No need to lift a finger¡± She admeed this. Andreasked L es, Dored to say three times! Le grabbed h o far, ¡°Uncle, this to dye it back bark. need to go to a STO ntil after dimer? Il go in the afternoon?¡± Novel Chapter 56 Novel Chapter 56 Andre, want to see your hair go back to the color before in three hours.¡± ¡°Wight, get ¡± Hansen tad to Andre, ¡°if you leave this afternoon, that mean you still have to ** with the hours whether Legir has been dyed? If you leave now, there will be no one to manage him¡± Nam, who had-cooken to Andre and his wife all day finally broke her since. Het fest words were to ask them to stay Ether don¡¯t leave or stay Andre can help me keep an eye on Leo if he stays at home! ¡°Mum, enjoy your mea, put a piece of lobster on your te. Leo quickly tried to please his mother, determined to keep her from asking Andre to stay Naughty uncle naughty **mate, if the two of them were ?raving, then they had to brain together, if they were staying, then they would stay together. In his heart, Leo ust hoped they would lead! As gurky as possible! In the afternoon all the luggage was packed Andreand Ma were just waiting for Leoshar to be dyed back Andre looked at his nephew unhappily. ¡°When are you going to dye your hair?¡± Faring his uncle Leos heart was pounding Heswallowed ¡°Uncle can you leave? I promise wil de myhar back today¡± Naomi pped her son¡¯s back with a ¡°pop¡±, ¡°what are you talking about? How could you ask Anre to leave so directly?¡± However, Noom was very for inside, wanting Andre and his wife to leave but also wanting Ancre to help her manage L es at home It seemed that Andre was getting impotent ¡°Butler, Ening out the hair cutting machine¡± ¡®Unck, I¡¯m going to der my harnow!¡± Lemmedutely surendered in front of this uncle.grabbing the butler¡¯s Jr. He had prignally nned to show off his new hair color to a few friends tonight, but as soon as her pai home and saw his uncle, his n was ruined. He had no chance to show off What angered him more wi the womanly his uncles sud Since Maw Lea, left her face Ext time she saw Leo.i butugh it seemed that she and her husband wrie Leos temas What was fil was to funny about that! he image of n bengotedom to her husband she just couldn¡¯t help However, herughing in Andre¡¯s eyes, was like a young yet seeing the joy offer beloved Le and Ma stared at each other Leo gritted his teeth only helps m ong saying to Ma, ¡°Why are you Although she didnil Seetas ip movements clearly, Muunderstood what he wanted to express alter being **mates for so many years. She shook her head, genga kuk. She wouldn¡¯t help Tem Leo¡¯s rytows raised his eyes warning Ma ¡°Dont m me angly Maradan tebrow at him, alock of action on her face as if to say ¡°Dare you?¡± The exchange of gances between the two of them has Andra funing on the couch Are you happy to see best Surned to his new wife, his eyes slightly narrowes, oppressive, Mia, who was having a lively ¡°that¡± with L es, was suddenly asked by her husband, she didn¡¯t hear clearly and responded subconsciou This hah was mozaken by her husband as an affirmative answer which it the fire in his hear. Naomy, standing on the side, feh that Antre was petting angry It was worth mentioning that her decedent son and the annoying sister-inw seemed to be obli Even worse, they seemed to be adayl? Leo walked up to them and grabbed Must Cometh me¡± After saying that, be luck his uncles wide away in from of his uncle. Mu happily followed him. serte two of them left, the king room fent Andrs Adam¡¯s apple moved, ¡°Xunt is 20 this year right?¡± Uh, yes. But Andre, he¡¯s still very young¡± Naam fet that Andre wanted to decipline her son Andre turned head towards the direction they had despoeding Ties not young animate, he should get married¡± Naomi tatched the corner of her mouth, thinking, ¡°Get manied at 2017 Andre said as with a giraight face. After they disappeared.Leo and Mamed on the backyardwn Leo shoved his phone into Mas hand. ¡°Youe with menow! I need to dye my hair back before it gris dark¡± Mu holding the phoneughed out loud ¡°Lea, how can you be so stupi d?¡± Leo¡¯s eyes fickered rapidly Although he was reluctant, thinking of his uncle, he dared not show any dissatisfaction. ¡¤ He stood on the Iran, his hands in his pockets, posing in what he thought was most handsome pose, How about the pose, chaming night?¡± He ked Mia, who was taking pictures of him in a narcissistic way. Malheld the phone in her hand, frantically taking pictures of L es while shouting ¡°Change your pose, you don¡¯t take more pictures now, you won¡¯t have chanceter. 1007 T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Thinking of his future self with normal hair, Lea changed poses as fast as lightning, so fast that Madidn¡¯t plure Ebelcie he?hanged. Andre stood by the window, watching the young people ying outside. The smile on Mas face showed a happiness she had never had since joining the Cedo family ¡°Mr. Andre what do you need? Two servams appeared at Andre¡¯s side Andre nodded slightly, indicating them to look at he two prosle outside, ¡°Bing Leo back and shove his hear¡° Noom was at the side, stariled Andre walki She quickly sterped forward to plead ¡°Anche line to me.L es knows he was wrong, tak with himter en Don¡¯t sham Led¡¯s hair off Andre¡¯s eyes were firm, looking outside. The two has inc been ying, hut now one of them was aheady being taken away by the serv ants ¡°Hey mat Iwan |- taking pictures.I just wanted to prove that I really dared to dye my hair. Why are you grabbing me? Why don¡¯t you go grab Ma? L es defended hul¡¯ Mu holding Leo¡¯s phone, shouted at him, 1 no, how can you be so shameless!! ustaking picturs for you under the bright sun, and you want the ser vants toe and grab ma? III don¡¯t teach you a lesson, yout do whatever you want!¡± She walked into the inang room with his phone. ¡°You believe it or not, I delete all the photos?¡± Leu, ¡°No, cant delete That¡¯s my life¡± Andre frowned, pesturing towards the stool ¡°Sithm down, grab hold of him Butler, sha ve his head clean witha raz On hearing the Leo eximed ¡°Wut? Go bald? What?? ¡°Uncle, I¡¯m sorry! I dye my hair nowLen pleased on his knees Ma who held grudges, remembered how Leo had ordered the ser vants to search her. She had taken note. Now, she wa Tarling, go ahead and share his har off. Let him get a taste of h unmediane¡¯ Naomi shot tha a nce, thinking. The woman¡¯s a real snake in the gra**! However, Andres headboat sped up when the annoying wile. wing in his misfortune tuned to look at his gloating wife, and surprisingly anticipation in the eyes of he Chapter 57 Chapter 57 Naomi quickly intervened. ¡°Andre, you were just saying you¡¯d help Leo find a wife. If you shove his head, he¡¯s gonna look all weird, and girls probably want be into him anymore. Then he won¡¯t be able to find a partner ¡°Oh, Leo¡¯s on the hunt for a wile now? Leo, terified, stared at his uncle, his throat bobbing, Ings thaking. ¡°Whatawika? Mas interest was piqued at once. She excitedly ran up to Andebugging at his sleeve. ¡°Andre, who¡¯s Leds wie? mon spill the beans.¡± Andrenched his eyebrows, Mi¡¯s way of addressing he seemed to be ever¨Cchanging ¡°What did you put 1. Ma¡¯s cuncsity made her overinsk her firtatious behavior towards Andr Mr. Cedilo, Andre, darling? Oh just spit it out I wanna see it!! Finally hearing a term of endearment he liked Andre¡¯s expression sphered a little. ¡°Not sure yet, you being Lea¡¯s aunt should be more concerned about ¡°Of course, my d?ty¡± Muis eyes darted around. She slyly nced at the immobilized man, grinning. ¡°Leo, don¡¯t worry As your aunt deftly look out for your matrimonial attains. I help you find a gente, ertuous wise, and rational panner¡± Seeing things spiraling out of control, Nagmi immediately gabbed a servant, ¡®Quick, go fetch Hansen to save Leo¡± The servant, aware of the situation in the living room, humed upstairs to disturb the Ced family patriarchs set for the sake of Leo¡¯s har ¡°Sic there¡¯s trouble¡± Back in the long room, Andre was already brandishing a shaver, ready to get started Once the somed out the hat situation, he could leave with Mu ASAP Hold on, Andre, what are you doing?¡± Aneider¡¯s foar hatted Antres actions. ¡°Grandpa, sove mar At that moment. sipa¡± Seving his saver, Lessages willed up with tears. tet grateful his grandpa was still around had away in the Cedillo family, and wouldn¡¯t let his uncle have his way But Leo didnt row that, if Andredecided on something nobody could terr Just then spoke up exining to the suddenly appearing Hansen ¡°My hubby¡¯s just giving Leo aharout¡± reut mean shaving his head Andre shot a nce at Mu beside him. She actually managed toe up with that The liberated Leo immediately made a run for it Les grandpa appeared, and he waved off the servants restraining Les, freang His speed left Ma with her mouth agape She sought to herself, 11 only he could run this fast at school, he wouldn¡¯t have lost to me so many times.¡± Leo¡¯s grandpalooked at the couple side lip side, then at the Ardee¡¯s hand. You two¡± ¡°Do you want a haircut too? A business tycoon is doing it personally, and it¡¯s free¡± Macheekly anked. Hansen frowned, pointing at his head. ¡°You want me to shave i Mia started taking again pointing at Hanson¡¯s head. ¡°Your hairs almost all gone anyway might ake washing your hair easier The room fellet Didn¡¯t Maknow she was stirring up trouble? Of course Andre knew! He put down the shaver and immediately led away by the hand. As Mia was still dazed, there was amotion in the ing room. Ma was already pulled into the bedroom by her husband She asked. Andre, did myment just anger Gud?¡± ¡°You had the nerve to say that¡® Ma was the fast in the family to care mention¡¯s balding. Frowning. Ma sud, ¡°Even though my words might have upset him, it was just being honest¡± ¡°You want me to praise you for that?¡± Andre stared at Mia pouted, ¡°You canpliment me if you want.¡± Andre said, ¡°That¡¯s ke taking advantage and still trying to action.¡± Masaid, ¡°its all good, were moving today. Once we step out of the Cedillo family¡¯s front door be a free This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. bird¡± Andre asked. ¡°What does us moving have to do with what you said to Dad Laughing, Ma said, ¡°Of course rted head but he can¡¯t cool me hat happenedter proved that even when Hansen was mad, he could still control Mia It was already seven the ting. The two were still in the Cedillo family home. As go dark grew increasingly arious. She kepung Andre, ¡°Let¡¯s get going.¡± Hansen red at Ma Who moves at night? Mawas a bit scared of Hansen¡¯s re, and quietly moved closer to Andre. Andre cracked a smile, feeling as if he had atle kitten hiding behind hir Head Everything¡¯s packed up, we can leave Hansen despised those who hid behind men in times of trouble. He said, if you¡¯re brave enough, show the same courage you had when you called me bald. Now you¡¯re scared, look down on that.¡± Continue Hatenad. You guys can¡¯tetonight. Weren¡¯t you going to give me a harcut?¡± On hearing that, Mia¡¯s heart instantaneously clenched She thought, Im done for, I was too blunt¡± But Andie was there to protect het ¡°My hairdressing fees are too high you can¡¯t afford them.¡± Thatment made Hardenen more furious, he reported, Tadn¡¯t you say it was free?¡± He was grateful he didn¡¯t have any heart conditions. If he did, this couple¡¯s words today could¡¯ve Were they trying to piss him off? He could give the same attnude night back ¡°You guys are not leaving today Get the butler to lock the doors¡± He knew they were eager to leave this house. If he case he wouldn¡¯t hold back At that moment, the butler reminded, ¡°Lee hasn¡¯t returned ye Hansen said, ¡°Leave a backdoor open for him Speak of the devil, and he shall appeal Led¡¯s hair was back to normal, his short, thick hair fell to both sides, looking much better than before stepped through the door he immediately walked up to Andre, bowing his head respectfully. Please inspect. I dyed my hair three times¡± The Ile kitten hiding behind her hubby came out as soon as she saw Leo retu home Let me see Mu reached out to check something Len pped her hand away ¡®Are you my uncle¡± I¡¯m your uncle¡® The same if i checi he does Marubbed her hand that had been pped, took a look, then handed her hand to Andre, ¡°Honey look, it¡¯s alred¡± Andre took his wife¡¯s hand carefully and checked it! che coldly said he nephew ¡°Apologize to your aunty¡® Le stubbornly retorted. No, she deserved it.¡± ¡°Yeah, she deserved it ¡°Hansen chimed in angrily from the side Regardless of gender or age, everyone cared about their appearance Womendient Melbeing told they had wrinkles, and men hated being told they were losing hair Even Hansen, who wasnt young anymore and only had a few strands of hair left, couldn¡¯t stand it when people pointed out his hair loss. Chapter 58 Chapter 58 xChapter 58 Maposted then settled ufomably next to Andre. At the moment, she felt it was afer tond by her husband She didn¡¯t care about the pain inter hand anymore. The most important thing right now was to get cut of here ASAP ¡°Andre, I¡¯ve already checked a hat. Nothing a wrong. Can we leave Andre noticed the change in the way she addressed hem When the needed him, the would call money¡± And when she didn¡¯t need him, she would call him by his name. Andre This irked him. He caughed lightly and raid, ¡°My father wi night Might me is the best time to move¡¯ This meant Mia had to spend another night with the Ced in family. Upon hearing this decision, she felt as if her world was crumbling I was already nighttime. Mis sat on the couch, angry, hitting the backrest. We were supposed to be because of a conscience someone pil. Now, we can¡¯t Mia didnt know that the real reasons raven she couldnt leave want because of what the sad ar hut how the addressed And Andre, can we leave first thing in the morning? School start soon and I won¡¯t have time in mma then? Depends onmy mood¡± Andre sand and went to take a showe in a nearby betroon, Leo sneaked. dos parents master bedroom equally approached his mother in her saniy room, asking ¡°Mom, can you tell me what the fight between you and Mawas all about?¡± Upon hearing this, Nam had no reservations about sharing the deals with her son. After sterg Leo T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. signed Ma Then he told mother ¡°Mom, I think you were duped by Jian can¡¯t be sure about other things but I¡¯m certain Mahas no intentions of stealing your position as thedy of the Cedvika family. She¡¯s noted by definites wouldn¡¯t use a capped fountain pen. How could such azy person steal your tong pa**ion¡±¡± ¡°Leo, how can you say thing like that? Naomi argued back. 1 only realizedst night that I was trised Well what¡¯s done is done However, haur was curious about how her son know Mia. She asked him. ¡°Lea how did you meet her? You¡¯re **mates, howe you new mentioned be¡± Thinking about his days a ser vant. Leg lied to his mother ¡°Mom, Mua was my sidekick Nasmi beleerd her son, How can you treat agilke that? Have you forgotten the gentlemanly mantas taught you?¡± Feeling a litle pulty Le s replied, ¡°Alright, alight tiger worth He wanted to apologue to Ma for his mother¡¯s anymore Now, Mom itste, you should goobed go! And Mu knowing that his mother would never apologue due to her pride ¡°Come back as itste if you go f ucking for your Mo your unch might get Na problem Leo recked. He wasnt afraid of suring up a conflict, so he left his mother¡¯s bedroom and walked to his unck¡¯s bedroom door He knocked saying ¡°I know you¡¯re not askrep Open up The girl bang on the cou up. She looked at in reading on the bed. Get dressed on the door Andre closed his book, acking the back teeth increasingly annoyed by his nephew The door opened, and Mu asked slightly annoyed, ¡°WHERE? Le replied, ¡°Of course need something otherwise why would Ie looking for you?¡± He walked into the mamed couple¡¯s bedroom without pakleness. Then, saw the pillows and nket on the couch. ¡°My Go d¡±He looked at the couch, then at the manng is the big bed in the room, and raised his source. ¡°Have you got always slept separately? Mu punched in lightly on the forehead. Can you krepi, down?¡± Andre got out of ord, deading 10 teach Len a le sso Leo temporarily forgot the purpose of his visit, his eyes darting back and forth between the two, ¡°I thought you had already be my uncle¡¯s woman. You, you¡¯re still ah, un Andre grabbed Leps eat twisting it untilit tumed red. What did you say about your sunt?¡± S pare bike gal. AaUncle, my ears falling off.¡± Andre, with a stemce. Say it again, what in aber ¡°She¡¯s st virginbecause you haven¡¯t touched her This time Andre twisted harder 11 ask one more time what is she?¡± Pan shot through Leus ear and spread throughout his body No matter what he said his uncle waari satisfied, so he turned to his friend for help. ¡°Ma don¡¯t just stand the Help me¡± My watched as her husband hulied Lea. A mark appeared on her face Pour Le he was clypfu She replied, ¡®Ch, I cant beat my hubby! im, the word ¡°hubby¡± was mentioned again. Andie kouenes up at He asked Mia in a softer tone, ¡°You answer¡± Mwaspletely baffled, ¡°Leo was right. We¡¯ve been married for a while and nothing¡¯s hoppered. I¡¯m si virgin¡± 14:02 Andre allowed hard. Was sheining that he hadn¡¯t touched her? a word Andre go of Leo¡¯s ear and walked towards his wife. Ma was frightened and covered her ears. ¡°What are you going to do? Was she going to get her ears twissed for not answering ording to his wishes? If the knew, she wouldnt have Andre grabbed his fe¡¯s the arm and pulled her I-is his arms. With one arm around her worst and the other holding her legs, he stood up, hakding her in a princess style carry in front of Leo The moment Mawashed off the ground, her heart almost junced out Therchest, Hey what are you doing?¡± Andre swallowed hard, walked to the bed with his wife in arms. Med the nket, and threw Mia to the side. Leo¡¯s mouth dropped open in surprise. ¡°Ohmy go d, a my uncle nning to give him a lee show? This is so excting¡± Ma was freaking out on the inside the sat in rm, Andre, remember what we agreed on, don¡¯t cross the ine¡± Andre turned his head in look at his nephew who was and standing there. ¡°Are you nning on sticking around to watch what happens next with your Lea covered his set, Tim not looking, I¡¯m notcking¡± Andre didn¡¯t even nce at his nephew, he growled, ¡°Geilost¡± Lea was so stated that he reflexively bolted even forgetting help his **mate Miaout of her credicament. He closed his eyes and brat a hasty retreat, clumsily closing the door belend him as he left Inside the room the couple looked at each other Ma waseted on the bed, to cared to move. She swallowed, ¡°Andre, are are you nning on sleeping on the couch?¡± Andre moved closer to her, the dim room light casing shadows on his face. Ma could even feel his breath She was to revcu tunk, staring at the face that was mw to cloin hers Chapter 59 Chapter 59 Do you feel awful because I don¡¯t such you?¡± Mia, ¡°Why would In awful? Andre¡¯s gaze shifted downwards,nding on her well-dologed chest. Ma quickly lower head, Inflowing his gare Suddenly Their foreheads colded Maquickly looked up meeting his gaze. At the same time, Andre also libed is head looking at a surprised Ma Sundenly the kos met Ma¡¯s eyes bicked rasidly, and her mind went k, forgetting to dodge. Her heart pounding ke crazy. Andre¡¯s gate was indese, focusing on the smooth acres Ma in front of him. His Adam¡¯s apake babbed help alightly parted, ha bodyllnd forward, and gedly covered hers The moist heat of his lips, the warmth of his breath, at stimted Ma Sherated her hands.pushed against his shoulders, and showed im away She miled off the bed ran barefoot to the couch wrapped hur ma nket, and covered her head. Inside the nket, her heart was stilearing Maclosed her eyes,forting herself, ¡°The new kisted before, why amreaching so much this time?¡± A little fairy popped up in Masmnd. The fairy bold her ¡°Last time he was drunk when you kopet, only you knew, so you werent embarra**ed, but now you two boked at each other and kissed, so embarra**ing Ma started debating with the fa rty. He should be more embarra**ed we kissedst regir¡± The dairy replied. This man probably had many women He thould be used to t ¡°Not necessarily, he and Jillian are not even dating¡± 1 didn¡¯t pay his woman was Jilm¡± They argued back and forthin the minds. Meanwhile, the man on the bed had unknowingly walked over to the sofa. Ma felt his eproach her body tensing up. Through the thin nket, dark figure bending over her, and the Ma¡¯s heart pounded and she was put i momen, she was lifted into the. ack on the bed agin the Andre pulled back her nket, revealingherhead Ma clung to the nket, not wanting Ancre to ree her. ¡°Use the big ncer. Leave this small me on the couch Andre said. It seemed that the kiss didn¡¯t embarra** Andre on a Pethane indeed had many women Andre locked at Mia, curled up. His Adam¡¯s apple bahsed, he reached under her and pules the nket away. Hey Masce was exposed. Her nket was stolen and she red at Andre angrily Andre looked at her chuckled softly ¡°Sleep on the bed, then you wont feel ufortable¡± 1 don¡¯t want in ¡± She rolled of the bed and headed for the couch If your one more step, I¡¯m buying the iron famly the man threatened. beweer made ace at Andre Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. allecion The current her was not afraid of hit threats al all Mastopped, lumed wound and responded, ¡°Hmm, i cort hw you. You work Andre looked at her quirky antics, and couldnt help cutugh his eyes filed wi Andrepared the bed, ¡°Come sleep, if you don¡¯t behave, your I have to stay here tomontow¡± ¡°You awful guy? Mained. Andre na sed an eyebrow, been a good ga y for so long, its not had to be a bad guy once in a whie! ¡°You¡¯re never a good guy. Good guys keep their word, but you never do! Andre. Whendid break a promise to you? Didn¡¯t I mase cur marted life good? As for moving out. I¡¯ve already bought a house for you, but your anties were disappointing¡± So not warning to sleep with yours disappointing? if you were a good guy, pou would haar moad me cut long ago.¡± ¡°Since I¡¯m not a good yup in your eyes, then ill, just be a bad one. We are not long¡± Alter saying thai, Andreid down where Ma was Hepatted the encly space next to him, ¡°Whether we stay or qu tomation depends on your performance toht Muaniacus He was too much! the ponderer for three minutes and finally, reluctantly wabed in the edge of the bed, sapry Just to lie clear, I won¡¯t feel bad at all I don¡¯t sleep with you¡¯ Jade looked at her, his eyes full of love. His demeanor mate Mia uneasy. Should the get on the bed? In the end, for the sake of her freedom tomation, Magave in. This was the fist time she slept on the marta bed. I was also the first time after getting married that she and her husband sk ipt in the same bed. She was a neu het heart pounding like a little deer, showing the unique styness of a young girl under the sheets. since they were married, she had always been sleeping on the couch. When the hey on on the bed, she wanted to stretch outfortably And purposely turned over, scaring Misim nning tool off the bed. The time, Andre quickly grabbed her hand pulled her back, and pinned he under him. Where are you running off?¡± ¡°Youre on top of me.¡± putand ¡°I¡¯m going to turn all the light¡± After saying that, Andre reached out and turned off the light, and the room suddenly went dark. But the two mere so close, they could see each other¡¯sres. Ma. ¡°Cant you let me turn it of! 1 tumed on the light, so I should turn it off¡± Mapouted, mumbling. ¡°You¡¯re just looking for an excuse, you want to down Andreughed, feeling very good The gut under the bed was sober than the bed and Andre didn¡¯t want to get up Ma pushed him, pushing him off. Andre, you have to move me out tomorrow? It vas alreadyte. Mia rarely had the chance to lie on such afortable big bed, and soon she fell asleep The moonlight was strong, the wind outside the window simed the leaves, orange light illuminated both their faces shadow of the Ismayed. All was peaceful inside the room, the After Mafell deep, Andre turned on themp again Headmed skeeping wife beside him, suddenly remembering their kiss She probably didn¡¯t know, but that kiss they shared yesterday, was a surprise he created under the guise of condence Their foreheads touched, and when she looked up, he also looked up internally leaning his body towards her softness Thest night Ingered in his mind, but tonight he hadn¡¯t had a chance to the fr In the evening, he asked h o nephew a question, ¡°han was she like?! because she gently pushed vay and ran away styl The nephews arower wasn¡¯t wrong But it wasnt what he was looking for. What exactly did he want? There wasn¡¯t a clear cut answer. It seemed, he had only two goals in mind. One was to punish Lea, no reason gun. The other was mess with her, again, for no trim¨®n. ese two bring so close today giving him, Mas husband no respect She was already asleep, and the word outside was bing gentle. The stars were in his arms, feeling soft tonight, the flowers in the garden were looming, and she was Chapter 60 Chapter 60 The next day Ma woke up from bed etchedfortably. Haven¡¯t had a good sleep like in a long time She rolled over to her right and tumbled right into the arms of Andre mest to he he man in front of het locking eyes with him. Her eyes blinked, And blinked again. Andre, ¡®Are your eyes ufortable or do you not remember me?¡± Ma. ¡°Close your eyes! Andre was surprised. Hmm! She woke up and saw him without any shock. seems she had aheady pictured waking up with him in her mind nachatic man closed his eyes waiting for the thing he was expecting to happen Mawas silent for three seconds. After three seconds, she rolled off the bed and dashed towards the bathroom at the same speed Leo escaped yesterday The bathroom door mmed shut and the man on the bed slowly opened his eyes with a cun ning smile on his face. It turned out she asked him to close his eyes not to give him amming kiss but to escape He chuckled and got out of bed mense pare.looking towards the direction of the bathroom seeme The sunlight shone into the bedroom, bringing a touch of morning nightness. The natural light made him see me gifs shyness more clearly He got up and walked to the bathroom door. ¡°Hurry up and wash up, we are mouing early today Ma looked at herself in the mirror Her face was by even her ears were flushed Red as thening unlike any cloud She pped her ownce and said to hersel seems like it realyb umimor. Ma.how could you be dazzled by his good looks is being handsome such a big deal?. B Ten minutester, she was ing in the bathroom. She was to embarra**ed to Andre knocked on the door ¡°you done? To avoid any idents, conas you¡¯re ready. We are not having breakfast at home 11 take you ¡°Okay Imready¡± She turned on the faucet, pis sed her face with cold water, and then opened the door. Andre saw the water droplets on her face, he walked into the bathroom, took put a face towel, and wiped the droplets off her cheeks. Mawas taken aback, in her shouting. This is bad. Andre must have been eaten by a little monster. This person must be an imposter Andre¡¯s changes in thest two days were too big she was caught off guard and couldn¡¯t respond. Was Andre looked at her cleanline same man who used to tease her? satisfied. ¡°You look good the time¡¯ He took Ma by the hand. ¡°Lets go As the couple were about to reach the door ther steps Test Get over shadow moved in front of Mia and Andre, and the shadow had behind the couple who Mia was still in ude of shock. Andre¡¯s face had already darkened. He, being smart, knew they probably couldn¡¯t leave today. T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Then Hansen appeared in the long room. He was waing his care, choing his grandson, wanting to beat him up. His apparent immoble legs were now Mu saw Haming, and he was preparing to hit Lao behind h hasband, took a few steps closer and softly and, ¡°Hubby¡± That gentle call touched the man¡¯s heart once again Andres throat bobled, and he pulled his wife towards him, protecting her. worried that she would get hit by ident. So she sought help from her Malowed to watch the drama, and she couldn¡¯t stay calm even when she was hiding behind her husband. She grabbed her husband¡¯s arm with both hands, and her head revealing only a pair of light eyes looking to see what was happening Finally Hansen walked up to them. He was porting heavily, painting at his grandson behind Andre. Get out of the way I want to beat this mastrel of a grandson Andre pulled Mia¡¯s hand out of the way, letting his father his nephew pulled¡¯s ¡°Hey, Andre looked at his raging grandfather, he knew his uncle wouldnt help him. L es looked at Ma ¡°Ma, poure not being a good fr Mulocked inocent She didnt know what happened Hans didn¡¯t really want to hit his grandson, he just wanted to scare them. After calming down his anger, he exined to everyone what happened. Leo came to ham for money in the morning, and he left the amount was too much, so he refused. As a result, this da mn grandson threatened him with his beloved vase, saying that if he didnt give fan the money, he would smashes Hansen looked as precious vase, his eyes widened in shock when he saw his grandsons hand, Put down the vase, and I give you a million whacks¡± Being greedy Leoughed and said, ¡°Grandpa, a million is not enough, I wont two million¡± This made Hansenso angry He could this grandson, and the vase was in his hands, Harden could only temporarily submit, Til give you put down¡± ¡°No way you let me y with it for a few days. I¡¯ll return it to you when the money is in the ount! L es said,tealing the ying with a basketbal e with his finger an But, a vase is not a bal With Cr ack¡± sound, the room became sent, the grandfather and grandson bath stared at the shattered vase on the ground Ha ssen was still in shock, his beloved vane wat 1 Hamen gitted his teeth and called out his grandson¡¯s name Le saw that things were not going well and ran i Her him, wanting to hit hem. And then the scene that happened Afaring what had happened before Andre and could say anything, there was another scream from upstairs. ¡°Ah, Leor Mia Mahard Name, her heart trembled, then the locked at her feet to her, her eyes full of sympathy Le retreated to the front door, eady to run at any moment Naomirandown the stairs with a bracelet in her hand. She was so angry that her chest head. The pointed to L es at the door, shownphm L es where are the diamonds on my bracelet Makoked carefully the once glittering diamond wa Everyone¡¯s gaze was focused on the man at the dont Leo swallowed. ¡°It was told¡± Bruce also came out with his broken cap, Leo, how did my cup break? Leo, I went to get my mom¡¯s bracelet, identally humped into your trophy cup, and thenut bicke¡± Grez, Leo offended everyone in the house in just one morning. And and Ma are the only ones he didn¡¯t dare to offend becau bracelet On the couch, Hansen, Bruce, and Naomi tina row watching Leo squalling on the floor clutching in head with boch hyunds. Andre and Mawee stong on another coun ad ¡°Andre, you deal with ben Bruce didnt the heart toy hand on his own son, so he was hoping Anche could go L es a good lesson Naomi went straight to the point, ¡°Andre, you and Mia stop nning to lease, stay here and help me discipline Leo properly¡± these words, Mia immedutely straightened her back. Did they not want her to beaut Chapter 61 Chapter 61 No can do me and my hubby already bought a house, we¡¯re about to bounce Like a kid, Mia held Andre¡¯s hand, not letting him deal with the tedious house chores, insisting they moved out right away Andre sat on the couch, motionless, letting his hand be tugged by Mia. No one knew what he was thinking Everyone in the Cedillos knew that Mia was the one itching to move out. She wanted to leave because she couldn¡¯t get along with Naomi Now, everyone in the house was hoping that Andre would stay. As long as Andre was around, Leo would be able to ste up too much trouble. Back in the day. Leo would¡¯ve been super pa**ed if he heard his uncle was supposed to keep him in check. But today, he was strangely calm. It was like this was his utmate goal Naomi, in an attempt to make Andre and Miastay, even proposed to Ma, ¡°Can I talk to you in private?¡± Mia refused without a second thought. She stopped pulling Andres hand and instead sat next to him, hugging his arm. ¡°No way, just spit it out. My husband can help me understand Andre was smiling more than usual today, he was quite pleased with his new title. Naomi knew this was her satire. She did make a mistake ¡°Stay here with Andre, help me discipline Len. I apologize, well be nice to you from now As soon as she finished speaking, the whole living room fell silent. Everyone consciously lowered their breathing. Ma waspletely stunned. That uppily Naomi actually apologized to her? Andre had already made up his mind. He asked, ¡°What about my inws?¡± Luckily, with a reminder from her husband Mig snapped back to reality. She stated at Naomi, waiting for her answer Naomi thought for a long time and answered, il personally apologize to them Some people were willing to give everything for their children Naomi was also a mother and she was willing to swallow her pride and apologize to her sister-inw and her family members for her son Whether Leu smashed a vase, stole her diamond or identally broke her husband¡¯s **, these were all trial. The big deal was that Leo was out of cash As the only heir of the Cedillos, the family expenses naturally involved him. His pocket money was hundreds of thousands every month, buying houses and cars all on thepany¡¯s tab. It wouldn¡¯t cost adime But he was still out of cash. Why? A terrifying thought crossed Naomis mind. Her son was addicted to gambling and owed high in couldn¡¯t repay and had to resort to these meam. and he The thought of this scared Naomi Someone had to discipline Leo, in the Cedillo family apart from Andre, no one could control him. Naomi was willing to ana lton for her son¡¯s future. She was willing to swallow her pride and apologize for her past mistakes Naomi was making such a concession, and if Mia still refused, it would make her seem ungrateful. Her mind was in a whirl, she looked at her husband, hoping he could give her some advice Andre seued the opportunity to persuade his wife. ¡°You¡¯ve resolved your issues with Naomi, you probably won¡¯t fight in the future, and she¡¯s willing to apologize to your parents. Should we reconsider moving out?¡± Mia frowned, and she held Andre¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°But I still want to leave! Andre said. ¡°You¡¯ll have peers at home, and serv ants to take care of your diet. It¡¯s alsoment to have a dover when you go out. If me I¡¯m on a business tng, you¡¯ll be alone at home. Also if we move out, your parents would worry about you not living well in the Cedillo faut and keep asking and specting there ?Hansen also said. If you don¡¯t want to live with us in the front yard, there¡¯s an ply attic in the backyard, and you and Andre can move in Everyone was trying to persuade her to stay, and Ma¡¯s resolve to leave started to wobble. Andre proposed apromise to keep his wife, ¡°We can live here for a few months, if it doesn¡¯t work out, we¡¯ll move out, how about that?¡± The decision seemed eptable Mu nodded, then she remembered her husband¡¯s actionsst time, and asked with sor go back on your word this time?¡± Andre mastit angry at her uestion, instead, he answered gently.¡± Naomi, if you mad to leave, Ilitake you away immediately¡± sase. ¡°Are you going to I go back on my word. This time promise you in front of my dad, Bruce and They tried to move out three times, but it never worked out. Ma gave uppletely maybe this was fate She had to obediently pack her luggage and put it back in her room. When she sat dow sed, Leo walked in. ¡®Ma you should thank Malked, she didnt understand you my life to let you y¡± pose during day, just to stop k um moving out¡¯ ¡°Yes, what do you think. I asked my grandpa for two mitun, and even took the diamonds all my mum¡¯s million dor bracelet? Do I look like I¡¯m out of cash? The more Le spoke, the darke Le didn¡¯t notice her mood. He said out of good intentions. 1 deliberately like my grandpa¡¯s rose for you, you see how much sacrificed to make you stay You¡¯ll be here, and if my uncle treats you badly at least I can protect you. Last right you guys Leo¡¯s face went numb. Mia couldn¡¯t hold back any longer, she punched Li south, ¡®I won¡¯t thank you! imed that he was doing this for her good, keeping her here without her consent. Mas anger red up instantly L es saw her expression, then looked at her hand. Oh, he was in trouble now! L Bruce¡¯s study. T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Andre orginally wanted to go back and help Mist dy up the room, but Nanmi suddenly stopped him and led him to her husband¡¯s study Hansenwas also in the study Hansen and Bruces faces weegloomy Naomi¡¯s eyes were full of worry. ¡°Andre, we need to have a family meeting¡± Andre looked around the room, and didn¡¯t see Mia¡¯s fque he frowned. ¡°Either Naomi leaves or leave.¡± Either the Cedilo family no were having a meeting, or he and Mia were ducking out. Naomi could tell Andre was bummed about Mia¡¯s absence She exined, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t see is, it¡¯s just that she¡¯s still aske Lea. Our chat wasn¡¯t exactly kid-frendly. Plus, this is about Leo¡¯s future Come on,cut me some ck for being a mom Naomis tone was so soft and gentle, he couldn¡¯t say no Chapter 62 Chapter 62 In the end, Andre decided to drop the idea of moving his wife in the family meeting if Marealy got to taking about L es stuff, she might have spille Thinking about the fact that they still stayed, a smirk danced on Andre¡¯s ips. She was too delicate. If they moved out, he wouldn¡¯t be able to hold her tight at night. Plus, she smelled heavenly, a scent he was quite taken with Andre had never encountered such an intoxicating aroma before Unlike those high-end perfumes, her scent seemed to radiate from within, pulling at his heartstrings. Furthermore, Andre wanted Ma a to get along well with his family if they had to move out now because of some tension, wouldn¡¯t she be gone for decades? It¡¯d be better to sort things out at home first, then They needed some time to adjust to each other Staying at the Cedillo Mansion could help them avoid a lot of trouble. like Jillian So, Andre had plenty of reasons to stay. The only reason he didn¡¯t want to stay was his nephew-Leo Butpared to the other reasons, Leo was a minor issue to him. So, in the morning, Andre tried toence Mia to stay This silly girl actually believed him starting to rely on him and needed his help making decisions Therefore, Andre was in a good mood. His attitude was friendler during the family meeting aid to stay and she stayed. This showed that his wife was At this point, Naomi voiced her concern, Leo¡¯s been traveling for a month, but he¡¯s asking for money to steal diamonds. I¡¯m really warned he¡¯s racked up a ton of debt abroad. I went to the bank and printed his sta ¡®s been in Las Vegas Andre took the statement from Naomi, gave it a once-over, then put it down. Hansen and Bruce, how expenditure was hat a million dors, and the smallest transaction started at thirty thousand. Add million flowing through That was quite a bit of spending for him. that, Nanmi handed the bank statement to the three were studying it intensely The highest the transactions, and there was definitely two Hansen thought the situation was serious Bruce thought his son had made a wrong choice, Naomi thought her son must have been led astray by his friends, only Andre was dismissive, saying, ¡°It¡¯s normal¡± Hansen looked up, challenging him. ¡°Normal¡±¡± Andre sat on the couch, his demeanor noble, his ck suit disying his powerful aura and arrogance. He had a broader perspective, handled things more astutely than Hansen, more flexibly than Bruce, and had a moreprehensive view than Naomi The Cedillo family usually took. Andre¡¯s advice when making decisions. Even though he was young, he had been through as much as they had. While everyone else was worried about Leo, Andre was calm. He thought the expenditures were within reason. Andre calmly sad. ¡°Even if I gave Leo unlimited guts, he wouldn¡¯t get h ooked on gambling, let alone get into high interest debt¡± However, Nanmi didn¡¯t trust her son. Andre said, ¡°once took Leo to arge-scale gambling game, gave him ten million dors to y with, but he had no interest. Do you really think this two milion could entice him?¡± Everyone in the room was shocked by Andre¡¯s words. When did he take Leo gambling, and at arge- scale game at that? But that¡¯s how Andre educated his nephew When Leo started middle school, he began to form his own ideas and have a new understanding of money. Andre, wanting to cultivate him along on a business trip to the gambling city. hephew, took This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. That night, Leo SJm table of bets and clung to Andre¡¯s When Andre boldly took over the whole table, the money piled up into a small hill ready to gamble, Leo pulled Andre away from there. It was the first time he wasnt afraid of Andre, and firmly told him that gambling was not right. Later, Andre pushed his nephew out of the casino. From then on, no matter how high the stakes were, they weren¡¯t worth mentioning to Leo After Andre exined, the three people present were speechless with surprise Andre said. ¡°Bruce, Naomi, Lea is your son. The responsibility of educating him shouldn¡¯t always fall on me. I have my own kids someday Lets each take care of our own¡± Having sad al, he got up and left the study. The shock behind him was no longer ini punde Upon hearing his words, Hansen seemed led with joy. He looked at Haomi and Bruce with dright. ¡°Did Andre just say he¡¯d have his own kids?¡± Naomi¡¯s eyes fluttered rapidly, her checks fushed as the discussed her brother-in lifeis normal, in two or three months, Mis might be pregnant¡± Hansen was extremely happy as if it were already two or three monthster. sister-inw¡¯s family life with Hansen and Bruce, 11 their sex He smiled fantly pleased, ¡°As expected of a master one sentence predicts the prosperity of our Cedillo Family¡± What are you talking about? Naomi didn¡¯t understand. Hansen chuckled and waved his hand, also leaving the study When Andre returned to his bedroom, he was surprised to find his nephew there. Leo was slumped his head bowed, not daring to look up Mia was atting on her usual sleeping couch, seething with anger. 12-44 Seeing Andre retum, Mix¡¯s anger red up again. She pointed at the downeast Leo and said to Andre, Andre, you better deal with your nephew. Everything today was his doing¡±¡± What did you just call me?¡± ¡®Andre Lea, with his head stil lowered said softly, ¡°Andre wants you to call him hubby! As soon as he finished, he received another blow from Ma She didn¡¯t care il rewas there. ¡®Shut us if it wasn¡¯t for you I¡¯d be free as a bird¡± Andre raised an eyebrow. He¡¯d married a straightforward woman who didn¡¯t hesitate to get physical. When he walked in Mia stood by his side, her hand naturally interlocking with his fingers as she vented, ¡°He purposely smashed grandpa¡¯s wase, nicked his mam ¡®s diamond, even del berately broke his dad¡¯s **, just to prevent us from moving¡± Andre had already figured out his nephew¡¯s angle that morning, but he couldn¡¯t understand why the kid didnt want him to leave. He looked down at his wife who barely reached his chest, and then, he got 1. it wasn¡¯t about not wanting him to leave, but that he coulde and go as he pleased, but Mir had to star With that thought, Andre said. To my study¡± Chapter 63 Chapter 63 Leo hung his head low, his face etched with disappointment as he left the room The newlyweds were left in the room. One of them was buzzing with anticipation for the night, in high spirits. The other was pouting angrily, visibly displeased Andre looked at his angry wife and reached over to pinch her face with a smile. Go unpack your clothes and put them in the closet. We might be staying here for a while. If I get back early, I help you unpack. If I¡¯mte, just go to bed and don¡¯t wait for me¡± Mia frowned, asking sweetly. Do have to go to bed tonight?¡± Since they didn¡¯t have to move, she shouldn¡¯t be threatened anymore Andreasked ¡°Don¡¯t you want to sleep with me? Mia candidly nodded, ¡°Sleeping with you isn¡¯tfortable.¡± ¡°saw you slept very wellst night. I didn¡¯t see any difort.¡± Thinking ofst night, Mia¡¯s face flushed red. The hugging and kissing were pretty embarra**ing for her. After instructing his wife, Andre left for his study. Ma stuck out her tongue at his retreating figure, Tim not sleeping with you Andre¡¯s study was filled with dark colors. The moment you stepped in, you could feel the pressure You had to lower your voice when talking to in the mansest and be careful in everything you do. Before Andre, no cun ning thoughts were allowed. Otherwise, he had more than enough ways to punish you The exnation for what Mia said in the room¡± Leo lifted his head and met Andre¡¯s gaze. Andre saw the wound on the corner of his mouth and his eyelid twitched. No wonder he kept his head low, he had a wound on his face. And it was caused by his own wife ason is vald, I wont me you.¡± He cleared his throat awkwardly. It seemed his wife had a heavy hand. Exin, as long as the reason is ¡°Andre, I don¡¯t want you guys to move out if you guys live in the Cedillo Mansion and I¡¯m there, I can protect Mid you bully her. But if you guys move out, she¡¯s at your mercy¡± Andre suppressed his anger. ¡°What have bulled her with? ¡°You were in front of mest night. Maclearly refused, but you.¡±Leo feb very embarra**ed mentioning The more he thought about it after leavingst night, the more he felt guilty towards Mia. Andre asked him to leave, and he obediently left leaving Miato endure Andre¡¯s torment He didnt do right, he should have protected Mia He made those moves in order to keep Mia and Andre. He didn¡¯t expect to get punched again. Andre emphasized. ¡°Mia and I are a mantied couple, and whatever happens is normal.¡± ¡°My parents¡¯ marriage is normal, you and Miss manage you guys know the best. To put it bluntly, even This sentencepletely enraged Andre. He mmed the table, causing a loud bang Leo took a step back, startled ¡°Andre, you¡¯re so hot-tempered, not even letting me speak the truth Andre questioned, ¡°How are you so confident that Mis would choose you over me? Where do you get this sense of superiority? Do you think your immaturity and your boredom would be epted by Ma? You think dying your hair blond, gettingke tattoos, and piercings make you cool? Could you be the rich kid of the Cedilo family without me? When I was your age, I was already apany¡¯s president, and you¡¯re still spending the money learn. you think she would like you?¡± Leo was left speechless. Yes, Andre was right. At the age of twenty Andre was already part of the he wasn¡¯t as handsome, charming sessful, or talented. he was indeed no match for Andre. ¡°But, I¡¯ve known Mia since third grade and have been **mates with her for ten years. I understand her more than you do, I can make her happier than you can, and also, I am younger than you¡± His voice got lower and lower as he spoke. Leo¡¯s words left Andre unable to retort. He should have looked into it more thoroughly before, his wife and nephew had such a deep rtionship. ¡°Leo, no matter what you say the reality is in front of you Regardless of your past rtionship, she is now my wife. If I hear you say anything unusual about your rtionship with her again, don¡¯t me me for cutting off all your financial resources¡± ¡°Andre¡± Lea felrlike a baby still breastfeeding, if he was cut off from his fancial resources, he would be like a baby without milk, waiting for death. ¡°Your behavior now is undoubtedly like a tyrant¡± Andreughed mockingly. ¡°This is being a rant?seems haven¡¯t disciplined you for a long time, and now you dare to challenge me.¡± In front of Andre who provided him with his ring expenses, Leo didn¡¯t dare to refute him anymore, and he could only endure it quietly. Andre already understood the whole story and let his nephew leave Just as Leo reached the door, Andre called out to him, ¡°Wal was me who hit you¡± the wound on the corner of your mouth, when your mother asks, remember to say it Leo touched the corner of his mouth, wincing in pain. Women really had no conscience. He got hit for Mia¡¯s sake. He was so pased off Inside the master bedroom¡¯s closet, Mia put all her clothes into Andre¡¯s closet. The originally sp acious closet instantly became crowded withher clothes. The man shoes were mostly leather, mainly ck. Now, there were suddenly little while shoes, canvas shoes, high-top shoes, sandals, pink slippers, High heils, forming a stark contrast. It was like the life of a mature man and a young girl suddenly collided 124 His drames was full of men¡¯s watches, while Mia¡¯s drawer was filled with bracelets, nes, and earrings. Mis looked at her work, nodding in approval. The colorful clothes¡¯ pairing with ck was simply perfect. In the past, his closet gave off an impression of seriousness and solementy But now, with her addition, the closet was instantly filed with vitality giving off a refreshing feeling when entering. ¡°Done! Now I can go to sleep.¡± Ma took the nket and headed towards the s She flopped down in the familiar spot, pulling the covers over herself, Iving adim wall light on for Andre, then started to close her eyes to sleep. When Andre returned. Mia sprawled on the sols was a sight for sore eyes Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. His nephew¡¯s words were ringing in his ears She chose a man with no redeeming qualities His nephew had grown so confident after a single trip. He walked over pulling the nket off his wife with a flourish. He bent down to scoop up the stunned young girl, heading for the bed. ¡°Andre tant right for us to share a bed Mia tried to negotiate with her husband. Andre said, ¡°It ain¡¯t right to sleep in the same bed as your husband? Then who is it right to sleep with?¡± He forcefully tucked his wife into bed then picked up his phone to send an instruction to the housekeeper in the house. ¡°Come to my bedroom, take the s awap ¡°Mr. Andre, why are you doing this?¡± the housekeeper asked. Chapter 64 Chapter 64 Andre nced at his wife peeping out from under the overs, swallowing nervously. The sofa is in the way.¡± Upon hearing her ¡°Ted was about to be relocated Misreacted with a p on Andre¡¯s shouder. If you move my bed, where am supposed to sleep?¡± ¡°On the actual bed¡± They red at each other, both seething with discontent. Eventually, the butler did call for some ser vants who carried the long soda away right in front of Leo, who was also watching the sofa being removed grumbled loudly. ¡°Man, Andre really is a jok The room returned to silence, and Mu¡¯s eyes turned red with aggrievement. Realizing he may have been a bit harsh, Andre tried tomunicate with Mapatiently as a manied couple, there are some things you need to get used to sooner er inter Mis turned For head away ¡°Can¡¯t I get used to something else don¡¯t want to get used to seeping with you Andre was cuales about how he ended up marrying such a difcut woman Idn¡¯t she realize her words could make him maly angry¡± Once again, Ancre swallowed hard, leaning towards his wife. Just as their lips were about in touch, he said. ¡°No. You not only have to get used to sharing a bed with me but also get used to living with me. Ma fe is long. Now that you¡¯ve marned me, we have to be one. Some things will happen soon, even if not now. I can give you time to adjust, but don¡¯t think about hiding from this forever¡± They were so close that his breath brushed agam Vizsnosinks Her breathing became erratic and her heart started to pound. Before, she could criticize Andre¡¯s ambiguous rtionship wich Jillian from a moral standpoint. Now, with the misunderstanding res, she knew Andre wasty a samt but in his personal ide, he was clear, She couldn¡¯t find any fauts him. Moreover, Mamas his wife, so it was normal for him to her those needs Did she really have to spend her be with him? ¡°Andre, we agreed that you wouldn¡¯t interfere with me and vice versa. If you really can hold back, I can and you ah, you te She was cut off by a ¦¥¦° With her hands covering her head, a looked at the man rushing towards her, her eyes full of usation Andre¡¯s voice echoed in the room I¡¯m not some uncontroble beast. Let me be clear, the previous agreement is null and vold¡± ¡°Th? Was she really unable to escape this fate? If it had happened on their wedding night, she might have been prepared. Now, the more famfut she became with Andre, the more she wanted to maintain her independence. This way if their marriage ended, she could leave at any time. Andre leaned in again close enough to kiss her. With just a sight mov bules would inuch At that moment, Mia¡¯s face was faming, and she was so terse she dared not move. Andre teased her deliberately. ¡°Stay away from Leo abil. Con¡¯t forget you¡¯re his aunt As Mia said ¡°1¡±, her lips puckered slightly and identally brushed against the man¡¯s lips. Finally Andre kissed his wife. His lips rxed momentarily, and then the soft sensation disappeared. He didn¡¯t gher her time to be shy He reached around her back, his fingerscing through her hair and intiated a deeparkiss As he kissed her, he fet sofortable. Amid the chaos of the world, it seemed he had found a moment of peace. His tongue gemly pried open her teeth, invading her mouth. Ma, a newbie in lose, was carried away and forgot to push away the man in front of her The sound of knacking echoed from the bedroom door Startled, Mus instantly woke up and pushed away the man in front of her Naomi¡¯s voice came from outside the door. ¡°Ma are you asleep?¡± Mia was grateful for Naomi¡¯s timely arrival if she hadnie, she didn¡¯t want to imagine what would¡¯ve N?velDrama.Org owns all content. happened tonight. However, Andie was unusually annoyed with hap?i today. Tm not asleep. I¡¯ming to open the door.¡± She avoided Andes gare, sipped out of bed, put on her sl opers, and went to open the door ¡°Nasmi, shui brings you here?¡± Mis was thankful for Naomi¡¯s presence. Naomi remt¨ªntered that she had to apologue to the ?ranmiy tomorrow. To show her sincerity, the wanted to ask Mia about the Irvin family¡¯s preferences. Ma, what do your parents like? De is there anything they realy dukker?¡± Mis was curprised to see admis sincere allitude. After theit misunderstanding was cleared, Naomi was like a different person. ¡°My parents dont have any specific dislikes. They¡¯d be happy just to have you¡¯val¡± Napmi then sais, ¡®How shout you and Andre go with Bruce and me tomorrow?¡± Now, every time she heard the name, Andre, Mu would blush. She awkwardly replied, ¡°He might be busy tomorrow ¡°Oliant Andre in the room? Why don¡¯t you ask him? If he doesn¡¯t have anything important tomorrow, he could go with us to your home! Ma¡¯yas too shy to talk to him. Andre heard rything clearly. He deliberately stayed silent, waiting for his wife to inituta a convatation. H ¡°Naom,e in.¡± Mia inted Naomi into the room, She nced at the man alieady seated on the chair then looked at Nam uncertainly. You ask him¡± Sensing the couple¡¯s awkwardness, Mamme chuckled ¡°Why are you two still try to talk?¡± Naomi didn¡¯t make it hard for her, and asked Andre Andre do you have rs Commer I do, but Mia wants to go home careschedule. Mia blushed, thinking to herself, Andre must be out of his mind.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good, then let¡¯s go to the In family together tomorrow morning¡± After Naom foshed speaking, she made a small request ¡°Andre, I know it¡¯s right to punish L es for his wrongdoings, but could you go easier on him? His mouth is all brused¡± Mia was puzzled, thinking ¡°Weren¡¯t the bruses on le s fone caused by me?¡± She tugged at Naam for confirmation, ¡°Naomi who did you say caused the bruises on Leos face?¡± ¡°Whoebe could it be other than Andre? He didn¡¯t keby lx mw strength. Tros lips were all swollen up, and it breaks my heart to: Ma suddenly remembered that after she hit Leo eather, her husband called him to the study Scher husband was taking the fall for her. Her gaze immediately shifted to Andre. But Andre didn¡¯t meet her gaze, ¡°Naomi, since you guys let me discipline Lan, then you shouldst interfere with how educate hm. He¡¯s my nephew, everything I cesler his own good¡± ¡°But, you really hit him too hard.¡± Naomi said with a tinge of motherly concern Chapter 65 Chapter 65 Mu was feeling insecure, the lowered her head and silently moved next to Andre, hiding bend tim This somehow got Andre in a good mood. When he was na good mood, he was receptive is athers¡¯ suggestions. 11 be more careful next time¡± Naomi expressed her gratitude to Andre, ¡°Thank you for educating L es. He¡¯s his parents only child cont let him get hurt too much when you scold him¡± In her heart, Naam added, ¡°If you want to discipline someone, discipline your own kid. Dont iske tout on my son. ¡°I know.¡± This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org. After sending Naomi away, Ma in the bedroom did not speak again Andre locked at Mia and said, Don¡¯t lecture L es so harsh in the future, got it? Mia obediently replied, ¡°I got it¡± Andre took responsibility for her, which got her to Ikerineven more, Andre knew his wife was embarra**ed about what just happened, so he didnt bring it up aga He went to the closet to get his pajamas. When he saw the extra stuff from the girl in the room, he chuckled, ¡°You have so many clothes, no wonder you need three sutcases. He found his pajamas in the crowded closet and left with them. Seeing Millstanding where the was on the sofa, he said, ¡°You go sleep on the bed There were no were no mate gauches for people to lie on in the bedroom, only a big,fortable bed Ma didn¡¯t make a fuss and went to bed. When Andre came out, stels already asleep in bed. He sat on the edge of the bed, led the covers andy on the other side of the bed Andre lifted her head put his arm under her neck, and ether sleep with her head on his am. He smiled and got close to Ma smelling her fam scort. It¡¯s werd, your scent is totally different from your toothpaste and shower ge, but you smell really good.¡¯ He had never been close to Mis before, so he didn¡¯t know what she smelled Their first kiss qave him the opportunity to get close to Ma and he discovered her faint scent, which attracted han He was infatuated with this scent, as if everyone was looding for a unique scent of their own and he had found that scent on Ma. He looked at me sleeping face and whispered, I¡¯ve found ¡± He got close to her and, while she was sleeping, sulty lissed her lips. The weak gir shone on them, the dim light intoxicating him. The next day, Mia was deep in a dream, but was woken up by her husband, ¡°We¡¯re going to your house today, get up now and pack, then contact your parents to see they¡¯re busy today, and tell them wereing over¡± Mis sat up, her pajama strap slipped down, she sat there istlessly, in a dar Andre was already dressed He stood in front of Mia bucking his belt, saying to his wife, Tim going to thepany to handle some work, I pick you up Muyawned and nodded to show that she understood Andre walked into the closet and when he came out, he found Mia hadid back down on the bed Andre looked helpless, Wre you really that tired?¡± He sat on the edge of the bed gently putting his wile¡¯s face, reminding het. ¡°Remember to contact your parents today¡± The woman on the bed closed her eyes, nodded, clearly amoyed. Seeing his wife so sleepy, Andre didn¡¯t have the heart to wake her up He still had time, andt could contact his inws on the way to thepany So, before leaving, Andre covered his wife with a neet and issiructed the maid, ¡°Make sure to wake Ms. Ma up of nine¡± On the way Andre contacted his inws to arrange a time Ma continued to sleepfortably, sleeping in was a kaury in the early morning Hut not long aller, Leo¡¯s noise waked her up. she¡¯s pis sed and wanted to scold Leo ¡°Andre didn¡¯t ever have the heart to wake me up in the morning, but youe over early in the moming to make se, didn¡¯t I discipline you enoughst night1¡± The Cedilo family¡¯s Lving room had never been so no by Mia clused Loo to it lim, while Leo was running away. He ran and screamed. ¡°Help, Mia is going to kid me.¡± Lapter 65 Hansen Loughed out loud Ever since he wase was broken by Leo, he liked whoever ht Lea Naomi was busy preparing gifti. She¡¯sparing the gift ist with her husband and didn¡¯t have time to worry shout her sons safety. Everyone thought: Ma was a girl, so she wouldn¡¯t hit Leo that hard. Leo thought: I was screwed, Thad pis sed off Ma Just before ten, Andre¡¯s car stopped in from of the house. He got out of the car and asked the maid is Ms. Ma awake? ¡°Not long after you left, Ms Mia got up. Just now she was in the room chasing and hitting Mr. L es¡± It¡¯s L es propter again! Andre went into the living room At this point, the two who were fighting have stopped. Mix and L es were sitting on ether side of the sofa, and Hansen, who¡¯s trying not tough, was sitting in the middle Hansen saw his soning back, then waved happily ¡®Come here, Mia just disciplined Leo for me¡±. Andre sit next to his wife looked at his angry wife, and asked with a smile, ¡°What did you do this life?¡± Her presence made the house lively every day it¡¯s always bustling, even though they re fighting, the house is full of life. MARES Panted to L es, she; she just disciplined, and said in her husband, I was sleeping, and he suice me Andreashed. Then you hit him? Mia nodded. ¡°Hansen gave me the weapon i hit someone, Harden is also responsible¡± Andre looked at his father, Hanan proudly picked up hit came and said, ¡°Yes, I gave her the weapon. When she hit Leo, I also contributed¡± Andre was speechless for a moment, his father sremez & bet chash When it¡¯s time to leave, Marmalized she hadn¡¯ttacted her parents yet. Andre said. ¡°If we were waiting for you to contact them, who knows when that would be Dont worry already talked with them this morning, they will be home warding for us today¡± At this moment, Marealized once again how nice was to have a husband. At least when she couldn¡¯t rely on herself. He was someone she could depend on. Her affection for him increased a little mone She¡¯s going to go ¡°ome agan, Mixedly got in the car early, buckled her seatbelt and wated for her husband to drive. In the back. Bruce¡¯s car, los also joined them. With a bruisedce, he sad, Mom, Dad I want to go wich you Naomi didnt want her son to go with them, she thought he was a bit embarra**ing. Wait till your face heals before going out. It¡¯s best not to be sees during this time.¡± No way I might go to the Irvin family¡± He wanted the Iran family to see the wounds on him, di based by their daughter ¡°Whatever, is Leo who¡¯s gonna embarra** himself, if he wanted to go, let him go.¡± Bruce did: I waste any time, immediately starting the car and following Andres car out of the Ced family They arrived at the Iran family The warmth of Aaron and Madison exceeded Naomia espectations. The couple¡¯s hospitally made her not knost how to apologize. Last time you went to the Cedillo family to find Mu my attitude! Oh, Ma has already told us She was too yful that caj werk nut to y, in we | see her¡± Madisontinued with a smile ¡°Mia is still very young. After marrying Andre, his dad and I always worry that she will cause trouble in the Cedilo family But luckily, you are there to guide her and prevent her from doing many wrong things. Mia has told us all about this. It¡¯s because of your help that his dad and I can be at ease we have recently nned to visit you to express our gratitude, but we didn¡¯t expect you toe first¡± Naomi was suposed. ¡®Mu actually told you that?¡± She didn¡¯t tell pown family about the grmances she suffered in the Cedillo family sufleted alone, but praised them behind their backs. At this moment, Naomi felt that she was een k as s than a twenty-year-old glil Chapter 66 Chapter 66 L That day. The couple from the livin family mailen, ¡°Ten, you¡¯re Ante¡¯s nephew?¡± Surprise was weten all over their faces. Le nodded, YA¡® Hedeby showed them the inj at the cemer of his mouth. They changed nces, an awkward look that only the two of them understood Look, your daught Was Les Family with the Isen family¡± It made everyone wonder what his rtionship was with Ma, who even met his patents. And was particrly interested in this question, feeling that his wife and nephew seemed too close So he asked Aaron Dat do you know Lea?¡± ¡°Sure, he oftenes to vis Mining the summer and winter holidays. We see my time Le conected in his heart Aaron, I¡¯m not here to y with your daughter. In here to help her with homework! Andre¡¯s eyes darkened, his eyes squinting It seemed that there was more to the tionship bety Don Leouslye to y with Mat Madison thought for a moment and said. ¡°These two kids get along well. Sometimes they go out together on week Jade was even more convinced of the unusual rtionship between the twol He turned head to look at the gel sing me to him Ma also turned her head so look at her husband He sneered, his cold eyes making the girl beside him abscond No one had ever made her retreat with just a look, Andre was the first Andre Come to the study with me when we get home! Math quilts even though she had done nothing wrong The Cedaily was initially here to apologize, but when Hasm found out that the inen family didn¡¯t me het i dedup being a family wit. After having lunch at the Irvin¡¯s Naom left, ching her husband¡¯s busy work. Midi want to leave so early to the made an excuse: ¡¯11 go home and pack some clothes, ande back tomato on my vin Andre knew she was trying to escape, so he sad 11 help youpack¡± Andre ¡°As your husband cant even met your room? Leo was off to the side, Hid ryes darling back and for In the end, Ma took Ante mis her park jedroom face showing a smirk as it waiting for a good show Andre said he was there to help her pack but he sat on the bed, examining the decationsund the room Herbed sheet was stillced i arge photo was hanging on the wall by the bed. The person in the photo hadn¡¯t changed much The photo was taken. Mahad no mood to pack, she kept secretly obsering was doing in her room When the man had seen enough, he turned his gate to his wife¡¯s back. ¡®Ma, what¡¯s the rtionship between you and Leat Andreamed and asked ¡°Can you and your **mate develop a rtionship to the point of meing parenta Ma thought about the homework she had done during the past few years of summer and winter vacations, and hesitated she told him considering the priditu family¡¯s indulgence in children, would arbell And that Leo was actualy bet she was bullying his nephew and vestit on herk promised Lea that she wouldn¡¯t mention her past oppression of him to the Cedi family my parents¡± Mia gase examples of what she and Jade oflendid. ¡°We watch movies, duk coller, go shopping, look for good food, men go on trips together! You two also turval together? And seemed a lot agialed ¡°How do you live?¡± ¡°We shared satte kom, no, no, aw stay separately separately!¡° Mia initially about Leo, she couldn¡¯t say Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. they stayed together was talking about Andie walked famly to his wil ¡°Ma ahal exactly is the rtionship between youlwu? They did meryling couples could dat And Hay dare le Adres jaw clenched as he stared ats masive mile Everyime Maked, she dared not look into other people¡¯s eyes. Sta Andre could get anything out of ha de, so he decided to turn to his nephew for confimation ¡°You hminutes to get ready. 11 wait for you duwisters¡® Apdie coldly ordered his sile. His tona was not very handy tually tacking. shapter 66 After hele Ma¡¯s heart calmed down a bit and the mumered in here, ¡°That scared me. The could already m¨¢j ne how difficult her life would be in the Ced to family if they found out that she had bean appressing Lee for the past ten years. Therefore, she absolutely could say Five impusesnes, the appeared in the can im She sneaked a nce at her husband and found that his face was a gloomis Uddare speak, so the ride home was very duel. When they get home, Arche went inside and ordered his nephew, wis was loungingen the couch, ¡®Come to my study¡¯ Leo asked. ¡°What dei co wrong? of answer, just gived at L es and wem into the study to want to him. Before long Lea also weni up He closed the doar stond in front of Andre, walling for his scolding Andra asked him. ¡°What was your rtionship with MaTM Leo Thought I was her to lower y That, is too undignified Encanto Andre know Good Len was brushing him off again. Andre squinted his eyes and asked. Did you two ever have a rtionship?¡± He and Ma had a rtionship1 ¡°Oh man, is he a weirm or what? He¡¯s manosaurs? He did hep Mia out this time, but that doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s love, a¡¯s just a fentchip thing. ¡°Ero, who splied the bears? Leaked Anche rowered alughup Miu else do you think would tell me, other than her? Leo thought in himself Mia is so sly. She could just reject Andre, but why did she ke up a story by saying that hein berbiend? He mistakenly thought that when And was pursuing Mia Misuse Businessman like Andre thewn liking for Leanne, and even brought up their former ¡°romance¡¯ to ¡®eject the ¡°No wonder And came home all piced off. It turns out he was rected by Mia. Gees, i himself have no idea whats so special abor Leo, conceng himself a smart guy. thought. Oh well, lets hep her out one more time Ah yeah Toshare a re ationship with her! Leo openly admmer so this Trtionship¡±, but as soon as he Fristed his sentence, he felt the atmosphere around him change He timidlylified his eyes, taking a nce at the man sing on the char spies we knittedther, and his gaze was icy cold Being state this. L es was so scared he wanted to kneel on the ground and beg Ang let him all the back The main the char audio being in control, suddenly found out that his wife and nephew was ¡®re¡±, this waspletely out of ha control His wife, whom te mamed, had a ¡°romantic rtionship¡¯ with his only rep No Wax E-ET SACE LED came back, she¡¯s been all smiles No wonder they ran off together as soon as they met. No wonder Lou desperately wanted to stay in Cell Mansion So that¡¯s the real oral between them 2/2 Chapter 67 Chapter 67 He took a deep breath, ¡°Get lost¡± Lep took off immediately. ytf Once he stepped out of the study, he could feel the warmth of the outdoors. ¡®G od, Andrei emifying¡± Just then, Mia cracked open her bedroom door. She poked her head out cautiously and whispered to the frightened Lea. ¡°Hey, over here=¡± Le heard the novice and looked over He immediately headed towards Mis. ¡°You really crossed the lose this time. Why didnt you discuss it with me before telling him?¡± Mi pulled him inside her room and quietly shut the door. ¡°He put me on the spot this moming. There was no time for me to discuss with you Lea, what were you guys just talking about Leo: ¡°We were having a standof Suddenly the bedroom door was flung open. Andre saw the two of them alone in her room, folding hands. His fists clenched tight Le saw the situation was bad, and ran away before he could finish his sentence. Given the curent tionship, Leo was Ma¡¯s ¡°ex boyfriend, while Mis was now Andre¡¯s Didn¡¯t that make him Andre¡¯s love meal? To make matters worse, the person he feared the most was Andro He med Mia for being unreliable more than once Knowing that he was afraid of Ande, she still used his name. She could have made up any random name: Andre¡¯s face darkened, and the mming of the door made Mashudder I was so werd Emrything was fine when he left in the morning How did Andha be so moody after amp to Mashouse? ¡°Ma why did you agree to many me in the first ce?! This was the second time they had discussed this topic since ther The first time ended in discord This time. Andre needed a clear an Others, very time he huggedor kissed her, he would be filled with gull knowing that she was Leo¡¯s ex girtiend Mia thought of her agreement with Hansen, she shook her head stubbornly refusing to speak. Andre: ¡°If he promised you something I can do it even better Marriage concerns out entire live. I hope you can tell me everything you n Mather tongue. I cant go back on my word I promised my dad wouldn¡¯t tell you I cant betray him.¡± Andre ¡°You should have heard the saying. He who understands the times is a wise man Considering the cullent suation of the Cedillo family you¡¯d b more from listening to me.¡± Facing her suddenly senous husband Muht Andre Andreasked again, ¡®What did he threaten you with?¡± ¡°Do you know? Ma mas shocked. Andre guessed, ¡°Your family¡¯spany? changes these past few days wETE mike a roller coaster making it impossible for her to grasp Now that Andre figured it out himself, it wasn¡¯t her who spilled the brand. Mano longer felt guilty She nodded. ¡°Your father came to my house, insisting that I ma I didn¡¯t agree, my family would end up like the once on Mastily I had no choice My brother is studying abroad, and the Cedi Group is the h of my parents¡¯ twenty plus years of hard work, s?greed.¡± The truth was as Andre had guessed. He didnt say anything more, but turned around and left the Cedaily He was furious at the Cedo family¡¯s high handed behavior. He married L es girlfriend, yet developed feelings for het een wanting to live with her Reality was indeed ironic He was not serous about the mamage, and loaks were in his Easte. Since that was the case, why not try living i If he had known three days warlight Leo and his wife had been lovers, he would be in such a quandary N?velDrama.Org owns all content. But now, he couldn¡¯t simply hand Mia over to L es father asked him to marry che heard his father saying that he wanted to give Now whenever he thought about his wife and Leo being intimate in bed, he couldn¡¯t stand He spent the entire whernoon at Maplewood Estates The sky gradusly darkened until it was pich ck. He was alone in Maplewood Estates the whole time Mia was at home pacing around her room with her phone in hand Would Andree back tonight? He didnt mann send a single message She was waiting for him toe back when it got to madright, Mia was so sleepy she could hardly her eyes a As the iing call and answered, ¡°Hello¡± ¡°And youing back tonight or not ¡®maling asleep waiting for you. If you¡¯re noting back, I¡¯m gonna lock the door and go to sleep Heroic ma** led with fatigue, and coquettish when talking to him Anden mitt up and asked, ¡°You¡¯ve been waiting for me?¡± who else would be waiting for? Labout to lose consciousness. Her voice grew softer, she didn¡¯t think about what she was saying, she just blurted out: ¡°Ifck the door you Henry pleasee back soon, I¡¯m so sleepy Em going to sleep now, remember to lock the door when youe back, I¡¯m not waiting for you Then there was silence on the other end of the phone Andre looked at the sc attered pieces of ** next to him,tening to the silence on the other end of the phon Hesitated for three seconds, then get up, grabbed his car keys, and headed home When he got home, it was already one in the morning The door wasn¡¯t locked, he pushed it open and went in. The woman on the bed was lying on the edge of the bed, her phone was still on the call Andre bent down, hung up the call, and sat next to her Matured over, her eyes opened back Ma turned over again with a sense of rebel Haney, get undressed and go to sleep¡± Andre saw her fall asleep again after finishing the sentence, his emotions wereplicated Hected her with a nket, then went to the bathroom The next day Ma woke up, there was no one by the bed. Only his pillow showed that he had been lying there. Mis was a bit confused, ¡°What 1 did hee backst might?¡± She was noted that she couldnt remember what happenedst night, the only remembered talking to him on the phone When she left the room intending to go to the dining room for breakfast, she suddenly heard Leo yell ¡°Andre is a madman I¡¯m not going been insulted¡± Naom looked a bit awkward ¡°But he has already found a Teacher for you Lea was raising hell in the room, ¡°¡®Let him ank his we to leam I won¡¯t go, even if I drop dead today. I still wont go Mia looked puzzled, ¡°Why are you throwing a fit so early in the morning, as if you¡¯ve been bitten by a dog?¡± Leo spotted the culprit and pointed at Ma. ¡°E¡¯s your fault are you happy now¡± Andre started lecturing ma Ma wore a purried expression, What did I do Naomi exned on the side, indre Boldime belone he left this morning! Leo added. ¡°Mom, to be precise, it¡¯s Latin cancel¡± hart signed Lee up for a hobby **. Iter found out it was dance **¡± N Chapter 68 Chapter 68 Mi looked up and down at Leo who was 1 meters tall He was going to Lain dance? She couldn¡¯t help butugh. Why on earth do you want to learn Latin dance Ha ha ha! Leo pointed the woman who couldnt stopughing You¡¯reughing new huh? wait for you, world! be doing this?¡± Ma looked mocent What did this have to do with her? L es dragond her out of the long room to the yard, where he begin to recourt petenday¡¯s events. ¡°You told Andre I was your ex Mia responded, ¡°Why would you hold that ¡°Senour¡¯s. That¡¯s what Andre toldme, and then I admitted we had a rtionship¡± Ma thought back to yesterday She shook her heart, denying it outright 1 swear if said such a thing I be your flower for like ¡° ¡°Wow you¡¯re brave enough to make such a harch nath So what did you tell ) Ma recalled ¡®He asked me about my rtionship with you made a promise not to call you my scope talved about Jada and me, how we watched movies, had coffee, went shopping together Then he gave me five minutes to get dressed, and that was i ?? ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it. We didn¡¯t say a word on our way home¡± Leo scratched his head in confusion, ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound like a problem! Mia nodded, ¡°Comect, it doesnt seem to be a problem But why would he suddenly say that to you? a moment had a malization, gen it now he was trying in ensama ss me. He thinks we¡¯re a couple and I¡¯m your lover Burn off why would I be to you?! Leo ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯d be into you rather What en cathis Andre thinking?¡± Once they figured out the problem, they quickly expound the Leo had tigh hopes for M He said. ¡°For the sake of the ten years I¡¯ve served you, help me clear up this misunderstanding with Andre Save me hom the Latin dance Mis thought for a moment. ¡°We¡¯ll see In the afternoon, Leo was forcibly sent to the Latin dance club by the buter. Mia, who was bored, decided to tag along and watch L es dance Ma ** of 20, there were 19 gris and only one guy Weir others were breezing through the moves, Len was stugging from outside the **icoul hear his ces of pan, ¡®Ouch, duch my back, my bones, it hurts¡± Maquickly recorded if on her phone and sent it to her bestie Jade Epire. ¡°Jade, guess what my rtionship with Leo is now.¡± ¡°What isn¡¯t he your snoope? ¡°Leo is Angie¡¯s nephew¡± ¡°On my gosh! Sa Leo is your nephew? Jade sat up in surprise Masennem, ¡®Yes, I went from being his boss to his am Then she pent another message. ¡°Took the only guy in this dance ** a Leo. My husbonduent him beie in leam Latin dance¡± What was going on in the Cedil may? She was very runou side, Leo was sweating buckets from the dance, while outside, Mia couldn¡¯t stopughing. Their roles werepletely reversed In the afternoon, Anche came home from work. Sewing Ma and Leo sing together und L es, unawate of any hostility, fad to the eases of the Cadin Mamion seemed like a mockery to Andre with an icecream in ther hands. I treated you to ice cream you gotta help me out ¡°You¡¯ se hap in omagium, jatt use a little trick, my uncle will do whatever you may¡± The corners of Mis mouthtched Ande liked her? That was the legjest jake she¡¯d heard all you Ledebont have feelings for you wouldn¡¯t have manied you? ¡°Have you cor dered that he was forced to marry me by your grandfather?¡± Les confidently said, ¡®his one in this world can force Ande Miu scoffed, clearly not believing less words. She continued to aal ler ice cream Tagerea to help, but I cant putaries sess They sat down an agreement reached A Holls Royce GHOST pulled up into of them, the engine heel stil radiating from chipat Even after it was burned off, they could will unali the exhaust The Andre got out of the car with a nk expression Hom of them looked up at the man getting out of the car ¡°M: ¡°Waxing for you to get all work 1/2 14:10 Lea: ¡°Keeping herpany while waiting for you! Andreever pulled the gilup from the ground, and gave her a coldlock. ¡°ThrownADY Ma looked at her half eaten ice cream and took another bite, Na¡± Andre sn atched the box from her hand and thaw it into the trash can He had overheard their conversation and knew that Leo bought the ice cream Jealous Andre, poot ice cream, angry Mix, scared Le Back in the bedroom, Mapouted, a small fame burning in her mys She looked at her husband. ¡°Andre, you owe me an ice cream Andre threw his phone at Mia, he said coldy ¡°Cal the a**istant yourself The ice cream¡± When Ma was angry the seemed like a balloon inted her belly puffing out. But in Ander¡¯s eyes, there was a hint of cuteness. ¡°Why should call when it¡¯s you who owe me?¡± Andre dicht want to argue with her. He picked up the phone and dialed the a**istant an ice cream delivered here The a**istant was surprised The boss wanted ice cream) He cautiously asked, ¡®Boss, what favor do you want? Andre frowned, ice cream had vors? He looked at his wife who was still mad at him, ¡°What favors does ice cream have? ¡°Humph, a lot Original, vin matcha, strawberry¡± Andre listened carefully. He didn¡¯t want to repeat it, so he said. ¡°Get all of them delivered here: The a**istant thought he heard the boss¡¯ wife¡¯s voice earlier The one enjoying the ice cream must be the boss¡¯s wie Wow. The bon spoiled his new w He immediately went to buy it Mapouted at her husband, ¡°Why did you throw away my ice cream and then agree to buy me a ne ¡°That ice cream made me ufortable Andee approached his wife, getting even closer Jindre yfully tapped his wife¡¯s head stressing once again. ¡°Keep your distance from Leo You¡¯re ha aum.¡± Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Oh, I get.¡± ¡°You got it, yet you¡¯re still eating the ice cream he bought you? And finally got to the crux of the matter Chapter 69 Chapter 69 Ma innocently sad, Tused is enjoy the cam he bought me.¡¯ How dare you talk to me about the past things between you? Arde pinched her cheeks. Wu¡¯s your husband?¡± ¡°You you¡± Ma Iordne squirm away ¡°Andre, you¡¯re abusing mer Andre¡¯s throat bobbed forsening his grip gradually. Marubbed her face, darting away from him quickly. Andre pointed at his hiding wife warmingly ¡°Dont you dare spend aller men¡¯s money¡± He then pulled out a bank and from his jacket andid it on the colles table, tapping his finger on it. ¡°This in your allowance. Five million a month. If its not enough, just seit me find out you¡¯re spending other meris money again, you won¡¯t get away withit¡± Mi nodded fearfully but didn¡¯t move for the card on the ishte. Soon after an a**ir ansed with a box of cam As Mia apanied him out, she saw the variety of vors in the box and was immediately overjoyed. Tuding one ice cream for box cream? Tolworth Shearly started digging into one Assistant. ¡°Miss, this is our CEOs mie¡¯s Mia, with cream smudged on her los mumbled back. ¡°Oh night I¡¯m your CEO wife. The a**istant gawked, astounded His boss mamed a chutend? Right at that momeni, Andre came dowoln Upon entering the living room he sam Mix already digging into the ice cream, creamswadalle p He picked up a napkin from the table and started ping it off why are you like a kid, eating with food all over your face? Mashatma gare ¡®None of your business¡± Ander did-1 reply, only feeling it was more pleasing to see herreling the ice cream he bought, The a**istant was left utterly stunned by the scene. The CEO manes a little girl? Ch pod The CEO personally cleaned his wife¡¯s mouth! What about his at hoession? The CEO took all the nagging from his wife without taking back! Where¡¯s his bad temper Oh my g*d he was truly shocked In a huff with her husband grabbed and let them while eating here And was left dus de Even the a**istant fer embara ssed for him ¡°Si do you have any other instructions? Anche ¡°Na. you may 11 Leaving the living room, Matured into a distribution expert She started distributing the box of ice cream Andre bought for her Upon seeing Hansen and the butter, she offered theme, ¡°Da, this is really good you should try Harden was inituly reluctant but was won over by Mu¡¯s enthusiasm and look a bite. The ice cream was sweet and cr eamy without being cloying it was cold sweet, and soft ¡°Mmm, not bad¡± This was Hansen¡¯s first time trying such a snack. He used to think they were underthy Ma also offered are to the butler That she went to find hom with the bou Coincidemaly Nasm was in the study looking over the Co family¡¯s expenses for the qu. Mu shouted from outside. Thudmi, are you there? I¡¯ming n¡¯ ¡°I¡¯m here just came in Naomi responded: Muhanded her be of ice cream. My husband bought these Perfect for summer Namisoked at the offered ice and smiled. ¡°No. Panks you can enjoy them yourvel!¡± ¡°Ty already done¡± She ced the ice cream on Mom¡¯s desk Sha naked a nce at the work Nasmi was doing, then said. ¡°I darll understand any of this. You go atual will your work, Naomi. II leave now eous wordings made her feel gully every time tha Ever since they had cleared things up, the rtionship between the two had improved signifirmly Ppa ter preeDIS: This feeling made her more patient and understanding with the young girl T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Soon, Masmi cscovered Uut Ma was slightforward, lively, and meal in all her dealings. This was so much better then Jillian who¡¯s just maniptive. She picked up the ice cream from the table, smiling as she started eating ¡°Hmm,ita sai¡± After diluting all the ice cream, every ser vant in the house had nine, except for Andre 14:10 Back in their mom, he asked, ¡®Weir¡¯s mine Tate yours ¡°Ma k¨¦t kke having another after her first she dies as well. You don¡¯t need ice cream Andre looked at hey squirting. ¡°Then what should I eat?¡± ¡°You dont war¡± Mabi berkip a little guilty Andre came over, bing her chen to look at her lips, ¡°is it a waste if I dont wear a bite of what I bought? With that, he leaned down and kissed he Ma was shocked She just ane his ice cream, why was ha kinning her? Just as Min was about to speak, the man silenced her with bin kiss, filing her mouth with his taste. He keptising her! When did he start taking advantage of her? Once again, Andresten the sweetness in her mouth, a faveche was addicted to Her Banque was roh sill carrying the sweet of Ram The more he kissed her the more infatuated he became we forgetting that she was Leo¡¯s expetend Ma felt day from his kissing Suddenly her phone in her pocket sang The ringtone startled both of them Ma¡¯s eyes instantly cleared pushing Ande away Andre¡¯s looked at her his eyes full of desire. Her faze was unnwurally red, breathing heavily, opes dodging. The red on her lips was evidence of their recent kiss. Andre said. ¡°Wnswer your phone first Ma picked up her phone, resing that the call was from Jade She moved in the window, catching her breath belom answering ¡°Hey Jude, what¡¯s up? ¡°Huh? What great news could possibly have? Ma mas puzzled The man sorgen the couch her his gaze an kha¡¯s back. His eyes grew moreplex the more he watch What was that scent of her that was so captivating? Jade excitedly said ¡°You said you wanted to change your majorst time you can to see me asked my bromer to help you process it, and row it¡¯s done youll be my **mate once the term stars Mahadamast forgomen about it. She was forced ima mamage, threatened by Andre, and in a fit of pique, she decided to study business, even nning toke Cedillo Inc. in the sure! She actually pulled off changing her major She excitedly asked. Formal? Didch into the business school¡± Chapter 70 Chapter 70 14:101 ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s a done deal, my brother made a point of putting us in the same **. The three ofwill again¡± Jade came to Haverok for the first time and felt uneasy in this strange ce Luckily she bumped into two of her best friends right after enrollment. One was the cheerful Mix and the ether was the survy and podloskingLeo The made her quickly adapt to this new environment, and they also became an inseparable trio in the eyes of **mates. She thought they would part wayn then they went off to college bd just a yearnes, they were back together ¡°What? L es andte in the same **? So Leo¡¯s gonna be my **mate again? This thought made her super staked Ma was so excited that she didn¡¯t notice the man on the couch, whosece gradually darkening And hard heard her clearly She had transferred to the business school just to be in the same mujor at lea And she was this thelled about being in the sameless as Leo? Were there still some Ingering feelings between her and Leo? The gave Andrea The kiss they just shared felt like a dog in the face He took a deep breath, wiching his wife by the window.gigging and chatting on the phone It wasn¡¯t until she ended the call that Mix put the phone down and tired to catch her husbands Des Hermind shed back to the pa**ionate kiss she had just hat. Bring heilig Maremained silent, moving slowly towards the bed, and then dashed out of the room, leng And behind She ran out the door in find Leo. And could guess that she was going to share the good news with len The bit his Ip has siming on the couch deep in thought about his next move T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Moving in! That¡¯s the quickest solution Andre could think of He needed to prevent them from meeting, and he would also pressure the school nol to allow Ma to change major Given enough time. The feelings for rother would naturally fade. But if they spent a lot of time together, there was to telling how the rtionship would evolve, green that they were just impulsive twenty-something students. As young people, they acted impulsively recklessly, for the pleasure of tal, and Andre might sull it out before it all begun. He decided then he got up to take a shower In Led¡¯s bedroom. When Mie showed up, he was lying on his bed. Seeing her be quickly sat up, askingeagerly. ¡°Soudditwon?¡± It worked Mia sped her hands cheerfully Len made a victory glure, Awesome Latin dance is a dam- hard, finest after practicing all day Mis paused ¡°I mean, it worked for me, not for you¡± Leo looked puzzled, ¡°What do you mean? Mia gave him the ¡°big news¡±, ¡°Tchanged my major ¡°And then what?¡± us school spotomne ** thire.¡± Leo smiled So you¡¯re saying I can¡¯t shake you Maughed, lightly putting Leo¡¯s shoulder, 1 keep helping you, after all, we¡¯re family¡± Leu retorted lody. ¡°No way Mia you¡¯re too much. Ive been helping you for for years and you want me to help you for three moneyears?¡± Magoped ¡°Well, if we¡¯ve already done it for ten years, what¡¯s another threa?¡± Mu many peased with Le s action. She hummed a happy fure as she hearded back to her room Andre was ready to fave. When he pan Ma humming his expression suddenly lured senous, ¡®You seem pretty chipper, huh?¡± Um tren After replying she grabbed her pajamas and headed to the bathroom She stayed in a good mood all the way till bedtime, chatting happily withde on her phone. During the conversation, she sent Jada a voice message. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t bel it when L es lourd nut we¡¯re gamu be **mates, he was stunned¡± Andrews sitting beside her reading and after insert the walce message, he suddenly found the bank in his hand boring. Then Masin!nother voice menxagu, ¡°Le? feels like he cant escape. hahaha¡± Aber herughter her phone was suddenly sna tched away Mi stared at her empty polm, then at her husband who had taken her plone. Her eyes were aze with ange, ¡°Ande, what the hell Your grabbed my ice cream, now my ph Andre hid the phone behind his back, swallowing his jealousy he hugged her trying to keep his voice ganda, ¡°Do we need to move?¡± ¡°No!¡± She was pa**ed off, so of course she would reject the das of moving Besides, she was quite Angra full adem for a while, he looked at the girl in front of him, took a deep breath, and asked the question he had been pandering for a while, ¡°Would you live to move 10 Maplewood Extnes?¡± Once upon aime he had said that only a woman who lived in Maplewood Estate would be worthy of him 14:10 He had extended an invitation to Mia, and everyone knew whai Traine But the tre ejected it without hesitation, ¡°No¡± Andre held her tightly, his gaze turning frosty ????? Mahad no idea what Maplewood Estates meant to Andre. She did even know that Maplewood Estates was the ce where he had lived alone since childhood. The name merely sounded familiar as if she had heardit somewhere before. Ane¡¯s breathing goes here, he looked at her feeling he pless. He put her on the bed, then lef Mia didn¡¯t care where he went, she picked up the phone that had been sn atched away and continued charting with Jade Andre didn¡¯t show up for the whole night The next day, at breant, Naomi gaked her ¡°Mia, where¡¯s Andre? ¡°I have no idea, he was gone when I woke up¡± Mia sat down the dining table radyat Als missing from the brearible was Leo, who had vanished early in the morning Naomi: ¡°He bolted¡± Leo had gone to his grandfather toin about not warring to team Latin dance, but Hansen got mad and dicht telphim Then Lewer to his parents His father and couldn¡¯t care less.¡± His mother sad, Team Fanden¡¯ With no one to help him, Leo had no choice but to pack his haps in the middle of the night and leave the Cedimily September ameed, and so dime sebeginning of the school per Ma packed her stuff, slung her backpack over her shoulder, and headedeu. In the cafetera, Leo was also brought back Word on the sixels, the day after he left, Anche tracked him down using his spending records, and had L es shipped off to a dance club to learn some moses. These days. Leo¡¯s body was achingso bad, it felt like his botes were broun and then put back together. Mia couldn¡¯t stand to watch it. She teak some sense to Andre hoping herd cancel the dance lessons But the man coldly replied. ¡°If you say one man word, you war o dance with h Mia was so scared she didn¡¯t dare say anything more Finally schen dried, which meant L eb was safe during the day. But Andre, being the snake he is, switched his Latin dance lessons from day to night When Le s heard this, he felt desperate Chapter 71 Chapter 71 On the first day of the new term, klis, armed with all her credentials and carrying her backpack, headedto the olice is leader her major Jade personally apanied Main hande the paperwork. Unexpectedly They ran oo Leo There. Seeing Leo Jade and Maculot help butugh. Jade Teased Leo, Teo hou¡¯s the studying poing?¡± Leo ground his teeth and sad. ¡®Jade, Ma, I dont know what len done to offend you? White Mia nned to change her major Las nned to escape them by changing Howner when they knived at office, they were told that is couldn¡¯t change her major and Le could changed either. The school leaders bed specifically singled them out. Jade asked ¡°Teacher, did you make a mistake? I remember Mix transferred to the business school dang the summerworten le s have the transler cartificate on my phone, with the segrevatures of two dean Why can¡¯t she tramer now! The tracher in the office didn¡¯t verify it again but answered. ¡°Your brodies don¡¯t agree with your inster. You should on home and denues it with them first¡± Ma said ¡°Since turned eighteen my parents have stopped in-king with my decisions. Teacher your excuse babe far fetched She frowned at the teacher Lee also said Indeed I can confim al and fut why can¡¯t wich uses of Micant change her muar¡± The teacher smiled and sad Tro, why don¡¯t you ask your unclet Andre is a major shareholder of the school. We have to listen to his opinion. And had never interfeed with Leo¡¯s school life Due to his father being an official, Leo had enjoyed a lot of privileges in cool Nobody really knew what father did people know he was rted to Andre, he would get a lot of sad friend. So Andre and Bracelets enjoy themence brought by their status. But the time Antre interfered with less business for the fist time, all because of M When are mentioned this at lunch with the school leaders, yone was shocked Turns out Leo¡¯s father was the mayor of Haverbrook and her uncle was the business tycoon. Andie! Abreuing the principa imrindiately adjusted Leo and Mix¡¯s studer status as per Andre¡¯s request So everyone know about Lea¡¯s identity and L es started to fedt unrang. He looked at Mia car to ask if Andre had anything to do with when he conceda ning deeply She probably guessed it was Andre¡¯s doing to Ma asked the pice beat And also block my The offer agter nodded to Ma They were puded, Leo was Andre¡¯s nephew, it made sense to prevent him from switching **es, but why cant Machange her man? After all, Mia was just an ordinary student, why would be bother? They didnt understand Ma¡¯s demity so they didnt show her the respect the deserved Mmmed her documents on the table and left the ofice. ¡°Ma where are you going?¡± Jade shouted Mua came to school early in the morning excited for the start of the new term, to see old friends, she was ecstatic. But when she gal she found out it Her dream was cruchet by drone She decided to go to Ced To Inc. to confront. Andre, she didn¡¯t miss living a light wit am to veri ade didn¡¯t catch up with Ma, thecer retured in the office and lock the documents on the table ¡®Lou, let¡¯s flow Ma She¡¯s going to confort. Andre. I¡¯m really worried shell and up lighting with my uncle. I don i know who¡¯s stronge?¡± Leo casually sad bahin After they left, the teachers in the office stated to gossip, expressing doubts about Mia and the Cedillu T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. family¡¯s Beniors The surrounding teachers were curious, ¡°Maybe Leo and the school beauty dating they want to be in the same **, but Mr Cello found out undirka klia is nat good mough for L*s so he doesn¡¯t want them in the same c*ss The speaking teacher stated the pecture on his phone to the questioning teacher, and the picture was of M Tied in the picty had a sweet gede andeyes the stars. Mareceived a ot of votes, nearly aqual from boys and giris, she was the deserved school beauty Arsing het picture and votes. The suturing teachers said thought than student was pretty, so she¡¯s dating Le s¡± ¡°What the Ceditomely drum shank much of her! Smead, ¡°Are you talking about Mia from the ach lecture school?¡± The teacher who joined der seit The heard offer Her family also has apany, andshe should be considered a ¡°However bag her famay¡¯s cairpany is, it can¡¯tpare to the Caddyndy Think about the Ceklo T ardy andy has Las meer. he¡¯s maryng abha station. A regr rich girl That appealing¡¯ makan serse No wonder M. Cedilo intendered not only adil Lasa businessd Everyone was talking while Mahad already taken a is the Cell Inc. building 10 As soon ashes ked in, the mashed to the hart desk and asker. Which foar in Arche¡¯s office ¡°Ma¡¯am, do you have an appointment?¡± Tim am, but without an appointment you cant see the presiden¡± Ma pulled out her phone and said, Tmake an appointment, ¡°es¡± diated Andres cell number and after three nogs, Andre¡¯s wore came on, ¡°Tirls, what¡¯s up?¡± Mis goed herein and said. ¡°Honey do I need to make an appointment to see you? Let¡¯s make ore no im in the The receptionists were all stunned Theycked this young girl in surprise What did she just cal the pres dent? Honey? Andre led his home tonight¡± obby downstairs¡± stand nced at his watch. What first day of school, seemed ske she got themes. In swamped right now if the¡¯s anything we can talk when I get Home Honey, many days it been since you¡¯ve been home? til get the chance to see you at home? Chapter 72 Chapter 72 ding in from alling for his decision Andre took a deep breath in the office with the inancial manager Art of helplessness Fashed in Andre¡¯s deep eyes, as he just got sealdad byl I promise, 11e home tonight¡± ¡°No need you now Mia shouted into her phons at Andre in the hall. Aber hanging up the phone, she turned to the receptional and said, ¡°Wiight, I have an appointment with Andre, let me in, I need to see him¡± The receptionist was still in a dare, ¡°You you you are the CEO¡¯s wife? This girl looked too young, plus the CEO was alwady married? Mi nodded, rushed out and forgot to bring our manage certificate. Shall call our buffer to bring some documents to prove my identity?¡± The receptions quickly shook her head ¡°Mrim, ple hold on, we need to confirm ?¡± Although M¡¯s words andatitude seemed very neat they decided to bite the bullet and contact one of the CEO¡¯s secretaries to vesty Mia¡¯s im The receptional contacted the CEO¡¯s a**idian and exined the situation The secretary had no idea that the CEO was mamed and said ¡°This woman might be a scammet just kick her out. The reception hesitated and looked in Ma. Maam, please in you continue to disrupt our work, we will call security Masquinted her eyes, Andre won¡¯t see me?! The receptionist noided She looked at the peopleing and going in the hat, thinking that she couldnt just barge en But since Andre wouldnt see her Mia nced at the couch not far away Tine, wat for him there Ma pat there with her backpack on The morptionists looked at each other, puzzled Aher gening hung up by his wife, Andr¡¯s mood also worsened. He knew she was here to find him, but he hid instead His emotions affected his work. He lost interest in looking at the financial report, ¡°You can go now¡± The financial manager carefully took the files and let the CCO Soon, a secretary came in to deliver documents and mentioned the incident, ¡°I heard from the receptionist down see you, I¡¯ve already asked her to leave. These young people dare to say anything¡± Andre¡¯s hand paused as he was flipping through the files, he looked up and asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about this ¡°Sic we all thought you were still single ¡± Andre and coldly, ¡°is myting too small or you guys just didnt i The secretary was startled when the i the wedding sing on Andra¡¯s ring finger ¡°Sic was that really your wife just now?¡± Andre put down his pen, stood up and prepared to go downstairs to pick up u Suddenly, he stopped. The secretary seemed scared. ¡°Sic your wife was just asked to leave, 1, L Andrequested that Mia must not had left. She was a very determined person and wouldn¡¯t leave without seeing He told the secondary to lear Then, Andre called ha personal a**istant, ¡°Go downstairs and bring Maup ritle. Do I have another wilet The a**istan rmediajaty understood his mistake, ¡°Six dont worry, go get your wife right now? ¡°Mm¡± Andrehung up phone, sat back kowit, rubbing his temples with a headache Heaven already anticipated shut Tof argument Mia would start with him when she that a girl imed to be the CEO¡¯s wife and wanted to the C ¡°Ma, Mia, why did you call me been together bre, Ande went to Maplewood Estates If he stayed there for the night, maybe he would have helped her nephew andier. However, she calledhin in the middle of the might toe home, and she had no idea what this phone call meant to him Just Anche was feeling a headache, raffice door was kicked open Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Then he heard a shell asace, ¡°Andre, what the hell are you thinking? What does my major change has to do with you? Why are you no noxy? You¡¯re not my guardian, why are you making decisions for met Are you loa idle in thepany? You meet ha add in my affairs, are you crazy?¡± The a**istant who brought The employees outside the office were also shocked The door of the CEO office want closed, they heard anything clearly This girl dired to seal their CECT The a**istant didit dare enter the CEO¡¯s office, he quickly closed the door Then the a**istant leaned against the door touched his chest, and felt his heartbeat, ¡°Wow, I¡¯s beating so fast The secretary just found out the shocking news that their CEO was maned, now she was surprised by Mr¡¯s kicking the door, and then scared by her scolding She quickly asked the a**istant, ¡°Was that the CEOs wil The a**istant nodded, ¡°Yes. The CEO himself confamed it when he had me send all flowers of lon cream to her The people in the office all covered their mouths in surprise. They couldnt be it but it was right in front of them A famous tycoon secretly mamed such a young wife who still looked like a student with her backpack, Andre leaked serious. ¡°Are you done yelling¡± ¡°Not yet, dont you want to hear me yell at you? Are you too bored? What does my going to business school have to do with you? Am i connections? After marrying you carit i even study the ma ng your money or using your If that¡¯s the case, we can¡¯t be together anymore Andre swallowed hard, even though he was very angry man, he ised is suppress words? Has he and my in their family she¡¯s the one who annoys him the most Who said he was moyed by his little we Ma¡¯s temper was unstable, her words were like a machine gun centantly ring at Andre. ¡°You¡¯re such an old man, can you stop indulging me? Just because you¡¯re rich and powerful, you want to interfere in every aspect of my can you stop being so overboring?¡± Andre closed his eyes, indeed he was thinking too well of just now. Go on, lets see what else you can say!¡±. ¡°I¡¯m done, hmph¡± Marted Andre ¡°Wright, my unto your switching because tuleval for and help you in any way. But this just a ploy to be with Leo and the line up and moves to ith Lee in the pa**, th to unt your rtionship in front of me, I¡¯m waming you, I might even make you tonster schools! If you and Leo continue to over another country. You mamed me, so you need to respect our manage. You and husband and wife, regardless of whatment you water under the bridge. Right now, your spouse is mer Chapter 73 Chapter 73 ¡°You use me of not respecting out manage? I¡¯m in a rtionship with Leo? Are you out of your mind to think that way?¡± Andre was at a less for words Ma was furing 11 were seeing Leo, would I have married you? Can youe up with better? Your use disappoints me just like you do Lunlike a gert, held back his impulse and said, ¡°You and Leo go to the movies, shopping, traveling together¡­ Aven¡¯t you two a couple? Leo has met your parents, havent you two made promises to each other? L es admitted that you two had something going on, is that? You use me of making excuses. Mis when have you ever been transparent with met You keep being dirty with Len behind my back, ignoring my feelings, and yet pretend to be infatuated with me, calling me back home to sleep, sweet talking me as hubby ¡°Are all women like you, hypocritical saying one thing and meaning? Again Mawas left confused It seemed like there was a misunderstanding between her and her husband And it seemed to be a very serious misunderstanding ¡°And, do you think Leo and were es? Masked, ¡°So the reason you didn¡¯t let me switch hospitals, didn¡¯t to transler schools is because you don¡¯t want us start over The time, Andreidt answer, but his gaze on Ma despered. Are you two going to start over? ¡°Of course not! What are you bbering about? We never hat yours? People hat you as a business tycoon, I Think you¡¯re just. shook her head, speechless So, the misunderstanding was here. She had to apologe to Los ing to start with how could we start over? How do you manage f uch a bigpany with a brainlike Lea is my little sidekick, how could i possibly have feelings for my sidekick? Really crazy?¡± Mu A hearing Ma¡¯s words, Andre frowned, his nephra was a sidekick? What was their rtionship Mia calmed down, the stand to exin to Andre chronologically in third grade, Lea and i were in the came ** he bullied me, and then I beat him. When we were in junior high, he tried to retaliate but I beat him again in high school, he challenged me again, this time that him a betta hand, he got pretty beat up Based on Mas description, Andreidemember that his nephew was once bady bearer, even took sick leave. Turned out, it was a girl who did it, and that girl was his wife He ramowed his eyes, continuing to listen Ma ¡°After high school, me, him and Jade somehow ended up in the same unity chose business school to avoid me. He thought he had escaped from my clutches, little did he know ended up marrying you, and you happened to be his uncle. Andre was lost in ha memories, it seemed like Leo m¨¢s nui thoilled but temfied and shocked when he fistimet Ma Ma continued ¡°He¡¯s always been a proud young masi cat home, he likes to mantan his dignity and didn¡¯t want me to reveal his dark past of being bullied by me for ten years. In machange, when I have conflicts with him, he has to step in to mediare and protect me. And, would cover up for him all those years he got beaten up by me. When met my parents, it was not surpring because he had to do my homework every winter and summer holiday, and every weekend. He was at my house when Jade was there, so my parentis knew him, and they also knew that i always bullieties at school ?her thant, when you asked me about Lea, I had promised him not to This family that he was beaten up by me, that he was between me and Jack Tear word to the movies, itled, or shopping with Cap. All those things I did with Jadel! Andre¡¯s eyebrows furrowed sightly. Had he misunderstood from the beginning? ¡°Why did Leo smash my dad¡¯s Aaron, take his mums diamond risking getting beaten up to keep you sidekick, so I told you what happened Mareplied ¡°He thought he was being clever thinking you would take advantage of me at night. After all, we have a decade of friendship, he wouldn¡¯t neglect my safety. Al least at home, i can scream for help and he cane to my rec N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Andrea that bobbed, ¡°Why did he admit that you two hada fling? Mapled ¡°Thats because of his a**umption. He thought you had ultenor motives towards me, and I had no feelings for you when I pushed you away he became my shield. L es thought that way and admitted it, not knowing you didit on purpose¡° His first misunderstanding in Hifpwas this serious. He finally cleaned up the misunderstanding Andor¡¯s heart was told with sunshine for not being ch Madidn¡¯t expect to be a misunderstanding either she was so mod th she marched up to Andre and gave him a le s punches, 70¡¯s all your fault for not being clear and jumping to conclusions, causing you to misunderstand. You¡¯re driving me nuts.¡± Andre took barwie¡¯s punches she didn¡¯t say a word, maked to his pickup the phone and dialed the school principal, ¡°Hello, this is Ande The principal on the offer end of the phone greeted respect Mc Cedillo, hello, what can do for you? Thoceed with Mal¡¯s newster appli Madatther man an instant, she blinked, utterly surprised. Ander ¡°He¡¯s going nowhere, just continue serving his aunt. he hung up the phone. The principal in the office was stunned, so was Mia ned to him, her mouth agaJE. dry, why id you admit our rtionship? Were you just truspecting the Andre Mediatly. I apologize to you, my misunderstanding Madd not know how rare it was for Ande to apologue, she just feit that Ance¡¯s gincerity mind it hard for her to stay mad That you can tell the principal about our mantal status, libe the talk of the school. And just became the school beauty I don¡¯t want to be a married school beauty! Andre qued his eyes, looking his spouse upi She¡¯s definitely a cutie, a real looker. He hadn¡¯t imagined he¡¯d end up manying the school¡¯s sweetwat sit se bad being my wife? ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone knowing I got hitched this early. Otherwise, I¡¯d be peeped at school, and people would be talking behind my back. I just v Andre locked eyes with Mia, all he saw in hers was determination. He feared that if he didn¡¯t agree, this girl would throw a fit in the next second So, once again, Andrepromise. 14:18 M Ever since hemel Mix, he always in Chapter 74 Chapter 74 Whether it was about appririments, moving changing majors or even secret marriages, he always choar 12 step beck The principal coved another call from Andre, who asked. ¡°Mi Cenilo, do you have any important instructors?¡± Andre danced this petite wile willing opposite him and told the person on the other end of the phone, ¡°The fact that Ms is my wis must be kept confidential¡± ¡°Got the principal responded. Hanging up the phone. Anche asked the woman in front of him, ¡®Are you satisfied this time? Ma took a sideways nce, poided, and nodded, it¡¯s okay.¡± And looked at Mix¡¯s profile andughed heartly Mia nced at him, found himughing at the debt. What are youughing?¡± ¡®T-ughing at your quis. You¡¯re the first one who dared to store in my office and yell me ¡°You did wrong so why wouldn¡¯t I yell at you¡± Plus, Impeting si my own husband. There¡¯s nothing legal about it.¡± And add ¡°True¡± In a marriage, asional arguments are With Mia¡¯s issue resolved, she felt a bit awkward sharing an office with Andre at thepany Shedashed to the office door like a line lotive and told Andre without looking back. ¡°I¡¯m leaving bye¡± Then, she ran out Following Anch¡¯s instructions, Mia had a smooth process in charging her major at school with your decision to switch major¡± Le s als eerlined to change his major, but the monas he got war, ¡®Mr Leo, Mr Cedilo s degrees wi Len wake, ¡°Why? She was able to Switch major The teacher looked at Mia and thought to himself, ¡°Code the gut have won the approval of the Ced to family?¡± Mis cheerfully Inched up the paperwork and with her change of mar certificate in hand, was about to go is the **room to report. Le grabbed her for help. ¡°How did you convince my une? Mehed ¡°wer to his office and scolded him? Leo asked. ¡°Ta- you give me some practical advice¡± Manaphed ¡°1 seal y ?rd yell at your uncle for a while un: I he agreed to let me switch majors. Guaitago, weyhing is an experiment. Maybe if you yell at him, you¡¯ll stop being afraid of him. Or maybe Jade and I will be visiting your grave ned par ¡°Ma That¡¯s the worst achice ever Don¡¯t you feel guilty?! Mashook her hear ¡°hope¡±: On the way out L es was in pain, while the two girls beside him saareughing henly Finally the rtionship was back to normal Aher the paperwork was done and she was sessfully rated, the principal reported the matter to Ander Andre expressed his glude to the principal in a good mood. After the misunderstanding was cleared he no longer had to be ranged up about it She was his wire from the beginning and had nothing to do with Leo Herolonger hesitated to kiss her an right Andre was in a great mood and awn wanted to pick his wife up from school himself Heteded Dis ¡°What time do you finish school in the attemoon? I pick you up ¡± Ma bit her lip as she read the message, ¡°Jade, help me ona yze this, imtina Andre¡¯s behawior has been a bit weirdtely. Let me describe it to you. Then you tal mail he has mutiple personality chauder¡± Leo also leaned in, ¡°Let me steno. He¡¯s my uncle. I can definitely give more advice than Jade Ma nodded the three got together and told them all about Andre¡¯s erratic behavior. She hold up her phone for the two to see ¡°He¡¯sing to pick me up from school Ang Ma¡¯s story, did and L es had the same thought, ¡°inde has a crush on Ma Mashook her heap¡¯n deal. ¡°That¡¯s impossible, there¡¯s nothing going on between un¡¯ To rtion of You two are mamed If he didn¡¯t have feelings for you or was not jealous of other men around you, why would he make Leo leam Latin cance? why did he let you sech majors, and then let you switchback maciately after clearing the misunderstanding? And why would he let Len take care of you? Ma do you think And has poligs for you?¡± ¡°old yourry uncle has feelings for Mia She did belese me before, but now thai Jarle said it, you believe IL ¨C gr? Len said excriedy Ma was moved by their words, ¡®Really?¡± Her chested red of shyness on her face Saudade was surprised and looked at her friend. ¡®Ma. I can¡¯t believe you managed to sin over such a difach man in such a short time after your mage¡± Leg cumed in, ¡°Lck Mia probably amacted my uncle with her loss. Heines innocent g kika Mia, un if a normal for him to be attracted to her. Hun my uncle hasn¡¯t with a woman for prats, ring such a beautiful girl lica Mu every day must have been hand for him to mul Mik gare L es a sida nya, ¡°Tan young that in front of your un?¡° Le s mediately quieted down, closing his mouth Mulockdown on him Jade said ¡°I think Lea has a point. You¡¯re a pure, innocent girl. If you were pretty you would be the campus belle. Men are visual creatures. I think you caught Andre¡¯s eye, and since you two are matted it¡¯s normal for him to have feelings for you¡± Ma thought about some of the details between her and Andre, and she felt that something was not quite right. Suddenly, she asked, ¡°Do I smell good to you put She added her arm for her two hands to smell. Jarle shops her head, and so did L. ¡°No, why?¡± Mia then recalled Andre kissing her, she opened her mouth, ¡°Do I have bad bath when I¡¯m liking to you? The two shook her heads again, To Andre into bad breath and body odor? ¡°Hmph of courir not. He always saye smell good, and asks what shampoo, toothpaste and shower gel l use, but af of my products are unstrived Jade eximed ¡®So you¡¯wa kizzed. Andral Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Lea locked at her ¡°Have you confirmed ammantic rtorship with my uncle Mia book into the wild imaginations. ¡°No. what the heck are you guys thinking? I just dont get it. Why does he always say i smell sweet when I clearly don¡¯t? After feeling a bit bummed soon enough, Andre rang her up. The three of them hed their breath all at once. Theydnabangis nervous even when answering calls from their teachers Minted the call putting her phone to heren Hein-¡± Andre asked, ¡°Did you mad the message sent you just now? ¡°Ah, I was busy just now and didnt see Um, did you need somerning? As Mia listened to his voice, Jade¡¯s and Leo¡¯s words echoed in her ear: Anche¡¯s got a crush on you. The next time stanowered the call the had a girlish shyness 2/2 Chapter 75 Chapter 75 14:18 Andre. TI pick you up aher school¡± ¡°No needde and I are going to hang out together¡± Mia responded Andre chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s my first time ying chauffeur for someone and you shot me down.¡± Ma Well get used to mejection Over time you¡¯ll get used to it.¡± Eavesdropping on their conversation, Jade and Mia a thumbs up, showing their admitation. They weren¡¯t fared by Andre one bit Andre was in good spirits. He didn¡¯t once he When he heard she had ns, he hung up the phone with a tinge of regret. Ma bit her lip, staring at her phone as she leaned on the table. Jade asked, ¡°What¡¯s up? Ma Te 1tle uneasy inside¡± Jade, her face resting on her handforted Ma, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re falling for Andre.¡± Mashook her head. Then she asked. To your uncle hasn¡¯t been home these past few days. Do you know where he¡¯s at L es answered. ¡°He¡¯s at Maplewood Estates¡± Ma found the name Maplewood Estates familiar She suddenly remembered Andre asking her, ¡°Would you consider moving to Maplewood Estates? Jade then asked, ¡°Maplewood Estates why haven¡¯t heard of?¡± Le exined, ¡®s my uncle¡¯s private residence. Only his close a**ociates can enter. Since he was 13, he¡¯s been living theme alone. The Cedillo family¡¯s old house is just a temporary residence for him. His real home is Maplewood Estaten.¡± He didn¡¯t notice Mia was already shell shocked He continued, 1 Magris a chance to move to Maplewood Estates, she might be my uncle¡¯s wife! Ma Hinked rapidly ¡°Maplewood Estates is Andes real home?! Lex: ¡°Yes, for you guys, home is where your parents are. For my uncle, Maplewood Estates is his home Musly took a sip of water She must have heard him corectly that day In the evening when Andre returned home, Mis had just finished freshening up in the bathroom. She walked up to Andre and said. ¡°Anche, save a question to ask you¡± ¡°Why are you not calling me honey anymore? Mia pouted. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say I was being hypoenticalTM Andrea the sofa, sipping his tea, ¡°That was a misunderstanding You can continue calling me honey¡± Ma covered her mouth, squatting to Andre, she asked, ¡°Did you really ask me to move to Maplewood N?velDrama.Org owns all content. Estates that day, or did hear wrong?¡± And looked at het ¡°Why bring this up all of a sudden? Mia rolled her eyes, Theard Leo mention it so I got curious Andre swallowed. ¡®Didn¡¯t you already tum me down?¡± Mia was surprised. So he really did mean Maplewood Estates that night! ¡°Andre¡± ¡°Call me ¡®honey.¡± Andre requested. Mia paused for a second, then started again, ¡°Honey why do you want me to move to Maplewood Estatest Andre slightly turned his head, looking down at Mia who was squatting beside him, ¡°Do you want to know why?¡± Andre bent down, leaning close to Mais face, ¡°Then you have to act cute for me Mia was speechless. She stood up, lightly patting Andre¡¯s shoulder, If you don¡¯t want to tell me forget it don¡¯t want to know anymore¡± Just as she was about to go to bed. Andre suddenly grabbed her wrist and pulled her intohim Mleaned backwards, petting directly on Andre¡¯sp, lightly mapped in his arms Ma¡¯s mouth was slightly open, Anders longue entered, intertwining with hers Ma¡¯s eyes wege wide open, she was stunned by the kiss, unsure how to react Minervously pursed her lips, too afraid Ander. ¡°If you¡¯re willing se your eyes, let me kiss you¡± Mia blushed, she had never experienced this before, what should she do? Andre krew the was young and innocent, so he leana clothes were disheveled, there was a knock on Both of them cr apped back to reality. Mialized she was stark naked, Andhe¡¯s clothes were open, the covered her blushing face with a hands doug Leo called out, ¡°Ma, can youe out? Andre nced down at the extremely shy is under him He picked up the nket and coed hec buttoning up his clothes as he walked toward the door He opened the door to see Leo, without a word, he kicked him ¡°AT¡± Le screamed in pain. Andre ¡°Go to my study if you¡¯re here for no mason mon¡¯t let you off tonight¡± Le covered his cr otch, wincing inpan Tmlooking for Ma ¡°She¡¯s asleep if you have anything to say say it to me Le didn¡¯t dare to refuse, he followed Andre to his study. ¡°Sell¡± Hemanded Len like aking Lea ¡°I just wanted to tell Mia that there¡¯s someone ndering her in our school¡¯s beauty contest Andre narrowed his eyes, ¡°Who? ¡°The second ce. Barbara She¡¯s three thousand votes behind Mia Even if she tries her best, she can¡¯t catch up. But she¡¯s posting on the school form saying Mia hasa sugar daddy who sent her to get sticsurgery¡± After heating this. Andre hythmically tapped his fingers on the table, then asked, ¡°Anything else?¡± Lea hesitated, ¡°About that dance ** have cleared the misunderstanding could you forgive me? Andrewaved his hand, ¡°You don¡¯t have to go tomonew Legally looked at him. However, Andre had other demands 2/2 Chapter 76 Chapter 76 Andre said First Mia and I are not to be dated after i pm, no matter how important the matter is, nobody shoulde to Leo rodded chademy. If it werent forlea¡¯s sudden inter-plinn tonight, based on Andie¡¯s understanding of his wife, they might have already engaged in a sexual rtionship tonight, and the future interactions would be more hormonious. ¡°Second whether at home or at school, you must protect Mia! Leo honestly asked, ¡°What if Mis is the one protecting me¡± She is very strong and if a fight were to bank out, most people wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against her Andre raised his eyes and stared at Lee. ¡°Starting tomorrow, you well go to a farkwond ¡®Me, Uncle, I promise you will protect Migr Andre presented a third condition ¡°She is your aunt, and from now on, you must treat her as your elde L es pursed his lips. ¡°At school, she doesn¡¯t want me to reveal curmanship! ¡°Except at school¡± Andre als sealed that his young wife didn¡¯t want to publicly acknowledge their rtionship at school, he respected Mid¡¯s suggestion. However, he emphasized one thing ¡°She is bing popr now, and there will he more boys around her. Do you know what to do? Leo excitedly pped his hands and pointed at Andre, expressing an unserstand expression. Don¡¯t worry. Und will handle it.¡± And nodded in satisfaction. ¡°You may go now¡± Le saluted in aical way and quickly left In his study. Andre recalled the scene from earlier in the bedroom. Her bashfulness was deeply imprinted in his mind. He took a deep breath and smiled then returned to the master bedroom Mia, curled up in bed, heard the sound and immediately closed her eyes her body tense. The chans from earlier had returned to calmness. His side of the bed was empty, and Mia was lying there alone, pretending to sleep Andre entered the mom, and Mia could feel his presence, making her more nervous. Andre stood by the bed without moving watching his pretending to sleep young fe She had already cressed again, closing her eyes because the was embarra**ed to face him Andre¡¯s face canteed a penile smile. He bent down, banging his mouth close to his young wiles radicand ¡°50, you were just shy¡± Mia¡¯s face under the covers turned even redder Then Andre¡¯sughter grew louder, and he stood up and left Mas bedside After a moment the sound of water running in the bathroom couls re heard. Only then did Mia open her eyes, taking deep breath, her body covered in sm ut. The time when a man returns home in a good mood has be regr During breakfast Andre extended his arm and ced Mixx fathe food on her te, not far away. Everyone at the diving table was surprised Ander was actually being so kind to Ma on his own inity? Mia, however, kept her head down all along like an ostrich, sying to ride herself under the table. Andre don¡¯t pay atter on to everyone¡¯s surprise he suddenly spoke up. Wherfnishing breakfast, I will take you and Leo to school¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s not necessary Mummediately refused Andre lowered his head sightly looking at his wife who was a little shorter than him, and asked ¡°Can you die? If you don¡¯t want me to take you, then you car today, and you can drive yourself to school from now on L es raised his hand, ¡°Incle, I can drive Andre cast a cold nce at his nephew who was asking for a car and Naomi rensed the unfavorable adulinn so she quickly held down her son¡¯s raised hand and ad ¡°Haha, Andre L es deunt need a car You just need to buy one for Win Leo was startled by his uncle¡¯s gaan and quickly lowered his head isinueating Mi felt than she was being treated differently by Andre. Sall in surprise, she blinked her yes and said. ¡°Than a dover¡¯s license, but I¡¯m too scared to die.¡± Andre¡¯s throat moved, and pe said, ¡°Til teach you when I have free lime¡± 1 dont want to learn Andegavelock Mia immediately ducked down to avoid his gaze, 11 be nervous when learning to live with you.¡± T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Heughed upot nearing that if you¡¯re nervous en leuning in drive with your husband, then no end in this world can make you familiar with cora Andre¡¯s change shocked everyone, including Hansen. The butler ralized that liansen hadn¡¯t eaten for five minutes and was just watching Andre Wasn¡¯t And always cold and indifferent? But now, where did his impatience got what about his alsof personality? Hansen locked at Mia and wondered. ¡°How did this young girl changa Ande?¡± Aber Srishing treaclest Mia and Leo got into the cat and went in schanlingether. Andrewatched as the car drove away before he dive off himeall Home quietly lugged at Bruce¡¯s sleeve and asked, ¡°Honey, did you notice something? Bruce looked at his butter¡¯s departing figure and nodded, ¡°Arake has be less cold¡± At school, Maundy learned that she had been smeared by Barbau Chapter /b Before she could retaliate, Barban¡¯s negative news had already taken over the school¡¯s online forum. Barbara had undergone stic surgery and she was the one seeking financial support from others at nightclubs. Her chastic personal life was exposed. The incidents of her hiring people to attack Mia, fabricating chat records between Mia and a gangster, and the confirmation from the stic surgery hospital had severely damaged Mutation thetures could be faked, but videos couldn¡¯ | on a mari¡¯sp at a nightclub, wearing revealing attire and feeding him Three videos were released, showing the entire process of Barbara¡¯s stic surgery her sitting on alcohol, and cemored explicit video. All at once. Barbara¡¯s moutation plummeted to rock batinm She went crazy in the **m, shouting ¡°Ma, you framed me!¡± Mia and Jade sat in the back row of the **room watching Barbara¡¯s videos. Mia sighed. ¡°Wow, it¡¯s truly shocking¡± Jade said. ¡°This person is so boring. The videos are blurred to can only see herce.¡± Soon, Le s entered the **room ¡°Mia, you¡¯ve be the hot topic on the school forum again¡± Mia didnt understand. Is there anything more surprising than thir She immediately checked Photos of her at different ages were disyed to refute the false reports about her stic surgery Following that, the cknies that fabricated her stic surgery were shut down, doctors were anested, and those who imed she was financially supported suddenly receivedwyer¡¯s notices under her name. They were scared into immediately apologizing and exining the whole situation. Jade and L es remained silent after seeing the news Mahad been with them all maming and had only learned about this today. She didnt! Jade asked ¡°Ma, did you really only find out about this this moming¡± me to do all these things, and she did even think of usingwyer¡¯s notices. Mi nodded, then asked Jade in retum, ¡°Jade, did you ask your brother in help me with this again Chapter 77 Chapter 77 Jade shook her head and said, ¡°We always go to the bathom together don¡¯t you know what I¡¯ve been up to?¡± Now they were both stunned. Who the hell did this? Who stood up for her solved her troubles, and cleared her name from all those false usations? Le s exmed, ¡®I know who it was!* The girls turned him, asking ¡°Was it you?¡± Lee shook his head ¡®h was my uncle.¡± ¡°Andre Cedilo?¡± The two girls were amazed with Mia asking ¡°How did he know? I just found out¡± 1 went to are you guysst night, and you werk already asleep, so my uncle took me to his sturdy and lold him everything. Only he could have done this. Ordinary people can find those hidden videos. Plus, my uncle set some rules for mest night vis to protect you well at school and report any situations to him Ma was so surprised that she was speechless. Jade looked at her friend with fear, ¡°Ma, what on earth did you do to win his heart?¡¯ Mia couldn¡¯t believe it, she said, ¡°Impossible, Andre is a very busy man, he wouldnt have time to do such real things for me. I think it was my parents, they were boredst night and went on our school¡¯s forum, saw people ndering me, and my dad took action¡± No matter how Mia exined it, the other two wereinced that Andre was the one who did it Later Miapromised and said ¡°light, go ask Andre when I get home.¡± Leo and Jade nodded firmly must be your boyfriend who did it That night, aber Andre get off work, Mawaded patiently for him under the eyes at the entrance As the car slowly pulled up. Andre got out, and Mixed up and walked towards him. Andre got out of the car andcked the door then turned to look at his lowly wife who seemed to be hesitating ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Um ¡°Ma pused her lips, making her face lock pully She had called her parents in the afternoon and found out that they didn¡¯t know anything about her school affairs She felt even more uncertain. Anche¡¯s unexpected kindness to her kept her on temethooks. As she waited for him just now her mind was filled with all sorts of thoughts. She wondered if what he then said about him king her was true, and she was reflecting on what she had done to make him have feelings for her She then realized that since she got mamed, she had been throwing tantrums and hadn¡¯t done anything good it couldn¡¯t be that he liked her but she was still somehow confused about the kissst night. When she noddedst night, she was lying to Andre. She really dont understand why Mia was the type of person who wouldn¡¯t understand anything unless you told her directly. Sometimes, when she thought too much, she would even feel narcissistic Seeing Andre, she warned to ask him about it, but she was afrudhat she might have misunderstood. Andre locked the car, opened his arms to hug Mia, and walked into the Ced to Mansion, asking. ¡°Have you eaten yer?¡± Mashook her head, ¡°I was waiting for you¡± Asmile appeared on Andre¡¯s face again. ¡°You dont have to wait for me next time.¡± Leo was lying casually on the sofa. Seeing Andre and Mae back together, he raised an eyebrow at Mia implying, ¡°Did you ask fm? Mashook her headlightly. Her meaning was. ¡°11 was too embarra**ed to ask.¡± Le rolled he, implying ¡°Why are you so useless? Ma sneaked a nce at the man beside her she signaled leo. ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask then?¡± Wheating for Leo¡¯s response, suddenly someone pa**ed between the two of them, breaking their line of sight. Andre sand, ¡°Leo¡¯s vision hasn¡¯t covered yet, so don¡¯t make eye contact with him.¡± Ma stuck out her tongue, Alright¡± Then she was whisked away ip the dining mom to apany her husband for dinner. At the dinner table, there were also attendant ser vants. She was even more embarra**ed to ask, She could only way?ntil the evening, when they were in the bedroom, she feltfortable enough to ask And also noticed at his wife wanted to talk to him, so after dinner, he took her hard and we upstairway ¡°Where are we going?¡± ¡°¡®s too early¡± Mia reminded Andre Andre replied, ¡°Can¡¯t we just chat for a while?¡± watched the retreating figures of the young couple, all dumblounded. ¡°Mum, uncle willing to chat with her? Leo asked Naomi Naomi askeder husband ¡°Haney does Andecht?¡± Bruce mananed his original posture. The probably does he just doesn¡¯t want to chal Thereof nadded in agreement Crot in bedroom, Mia started feeling awkward again. That is Lasting Leo said he told you something ¡°Marily Anche eind her, he said, ¡°You don¡¯t have wallow words when you talk to me. We are husband and wins, just say what you want to say You dont need to think too much¡± Ma nodded, since he said so, Ma anked directly ¡°Was A you who cadi? ¡°¡±She¡¯s just a small ¡°y, so I just instructed my suboniraten ki za 11¡± Andere admitted Ma¡¯s mouth dropped open in surprise She grabbed Andre¡¯s stin with both hands. ¡°Really? It was yout Masked. How did you get my old photos?¡± ¡°That called your dad and he sent me the photos¡± Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°But called my sad this sermon, and they said they didn¡¯t know anything shout this.¡± Mia bit her ip, standing in front of Andre, her expression salt, somewhat coqurilish, Thought it was my parents who did.¡± Andre chuckled he Lghtly tapped his wife¡¯s forehead ¡°I just asked youred for your photos from when you were little till now. I did¡¯t tell them what I was going to do, so your parents did know¡± ¡°Honey, do you knew whn Barbera is?¡± And shook his head, is her statusas noble as yours, Ms Cells¡± ¡°Definitely not Mix and Andre¡¯s rtionship had developed a bit uknowingly She was no longer shy to sprax msired, she started discussing these rumers with Anden, Her cousins Jen Manhal one of your purumi.¡± Imamamed man, and I dont need any sultors. She¡¯s just at wish¡¯u thinking continued Andre. If you feel cothed by her actions you can content her directly I will definitely back you up¡± Mia suddenly burst intoughter. The feeling that someone cvertly or covertly is protecting you, gave her a sense of security Honey il confront her people will think I¡¯m stirring up trouble.¡± ¡°You¡¯re Andre¡¯s wife, you have every right to strup trouble.¡± Chapter 78 Chapter 78 amile be even more enchanting now she really wanted to hug Andre. Tim apple cheeks were full a nal adorable, making eye contact with Andre. She asked, ¡°Why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?¡± ¡°Do I need a reason to be nice in you? Andre countered Mia asked again, ¡°Is it just because I¡¯m your wife? Is there no eller reason?¡± Anche asked, ¡°What iron do you want?¡¯ Men just dont get what women want to hear. After hearing his response Missile gradually faded in the end, she gave a slight smile, saying, ¡°Im going to take a bath Thank you for everything you¡¯ve done for me today¡± Andre was puzzled. She seemed to be in a good mood, but after hisst question, her smile noticeably Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. decreased, and the even found an excuse to lene He wondered, had he sad something wrong? In the bathroom, Mia koked at her reflection in the mite, feeling a bit downcast These past few thys, Jade and Leo kept telling her that Arde man doing all these things because he liked h?r. She almost beloved that reason. But after she asked, the sealed that Ande was being nice to her just because she was his wife, and there was no other reason. It was just because she was lucky enough to be his wife. if someone else mamed him, he would also treat them the same sly. Feeling disheartened Mia sighed helplessly Tm such a loel almostst sight of reality¡± She went to take a batt Because she was preupied she soaked in the bath for a long time, whichmada Andre somewhat womed and almost went into the bathroom to check on her Maxair. The frished my bath be out soon She came out of the bathroom with a towel ¡°You can go in and shower now, And the copies of water on her body and her blushing checks and asked, ¡°Did you fall in lep just now?¡± ¡°Ne, I was thinking about things and didn¡¯t notice how fast time was lying¡± After saying that, the picked up a hair dryer and went to the vanity to day her hair. Andre looked at hey, noting that she teamed upset. He felt a bit menus, but could bring himself to voice his conces When he came out of the shower, Mis was already lying on the bed ¡°Hmm? Ma looked at him, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± Andreased ¡°Are you angy?¡± ¡°Why would I be angry And shook his head, perhaps he was overthinking wasn¡¯t even nine yet. Andre slso go into bed At this time, the sky outside had just darkened Andre was §±p*rno through a book casually while Ma lying nen to him, didn¡¯t even want to nce at her phone. He naturally annad ter um So, he took the base is dose the curtains, darketing the foam. ¡°Stop looking on your phone, let¡¯s go to sleep Andre took the phone out of Mia¡¯s hand. He then turned over, reaching across Mato turn off her beddemp, Teasing only his own on Andreide down tight away, but propped himself upon his am, leaning teha petite wife. Mia¡¯s heartbeat was racingst night¡¯s scenes instantly shing in termin Then, Andre leaned in and kissed her lips, ¡°Go to sleep Ma protested silly, ¡°You kissed mea Andre chuckled, he stretched out his for Mato si on puling her into his embrace, covering her with the nket, all just to bring Mia a little closer to him ¡°So, do you want to ciss me back?¡± Mashook her head in his arms. She had shyly under the covers while in his embrace. Andre pulled her bag into his arm, letting her face rest on his chest. Andreure grehip is a weird¡± Andre bored at her, somewhat confused Farling the warms in his arms, Mia instinctively moved closer to him, closing her apes. In the dim light, she minted up the courage to sak, f you had mamed another woman, would you now be happing her and whispering sweet nothings like youded with mu?¡± Ander¡¯s throat ineed. He had closed his eyes just now but suddenly opened them At the moment he understand why he adorable wife was upset, why she was suking She cared that he was just being nice to anyone which was a good sign for him Andre replied, ¡°Calme ¡®honey¡¯, and I¡¯ll tell you the answer¡± ¡°Honey¡¯ Ma responded solly There second, her chat was led by arge hand, and her lips were kitsedapan Ha bath fled her mouth, these few kiloana taught her how is inspord Ma¡¯s hand rested on his shoulder, neither pushing him away nor actively inving him to go further 1d Andres body started to move on topal Ma When she felt as if mountain was pressing down on her Mia wanted to beathe more freely. She had to breathe through both her nose and mouth, but her mouth was being kused by hips. She pushed the man in front of her away, greing him a neproachful look. ¡°You¡¯re too heavy¡± Before Andre answered her previous question, ¡°Nonsense¡± His answer ended, and Mia forget she was still being pressed by him, she stared nkly at Andre So he The next second, Andre moved his body off of her, lying back in his original position turned off all the lights in the bedroom, holding his soft and adorable wife in his arms and fell asleep. Ma¡¯s mind was still spinning, and not knowing how long it took for her to fall asleep Late into the night, Mafell asleep. Andre slowly slipped his arm out from under her neck, gently lifed the nket, and quietly got out of bed Before going to work in the study, he looked at Mia agan, brushed the stray hair off her face, caressed her cheek. Her peaceful and sweet sleep gave him a sense of happiness and contentment. He bent down and gently kissed her forehead He walked into the study Once the confirmed Andre was the one who helped her, Mais mood was very pleasant every day. She told Leo and Jade, ¡°If someone else helped me. I would have to thank them. But if it¡¯s my husband, I dont need to Jade teased. Remember who was doubting Lee and me yesterday¡± Mia blinked, she said. ¡°Someone doubted I don¡¯t know who that was Le pointed at Mia. You are really brazen¡± Mia picked up her bag and hit Leo on the head, ¡°How dare you in me? Wait till you get home today I¡¯m going to tell my husband, let him teach you a lesson¡± Chapter 79 Chapter 79 ¡®Gosh, por Lea. The two people you¡¯re most scared of in your life are a married couple and you¡¯re their nephew They Toge you a hard time, Jade said, amused by the whole si Pointing at Jade, Le retorted. ¡°You¡¯ no good either, Jade!¡± delinely gonna team up on you if they ever want Furious, Jade picked up her backpack and smacked Leo¡¯s head ¡°What¡¯s with the disrespect? I¡¯m your aunt¡¯s bestie, and you should respect me.¡± Leo was speechless He got hit a couple of times and his head was throbbing Barbaras scandal had be the talk of the school. Her friends started to distance themselves from her Barbara, Mia and Jade were high school **mates. Mis was popr for herbeuty but she had ery semper She would hesitate to fight back against boys who despected her, and she wouldn¡¯t stop until they begged for mac Back then, the school didn¡¯t allow the selection of a ¡°school beauty¡± to prevent students from gentle personality, attracted many suitors. She believed she was just as beautiful as Ma However, when she first entered university, tushmen went allowed to participate in the beauty pageam, and Ma¡¯s reputation had already spread Ma¡¯s family picked her up in a luxurious Rolls Royce when she ward to register for university. That made everyone remember how rich her family was Later, Misbecame somewhat famous in her freshman year in the architecture department, she was the unofficial princess of the student body Batara didn¡¯t care about this fest But when she found out that Mis didn¡¯t even sign up for the beauty pageant but was nominated and got over three thousand money than her, Barbasted to feel jealous. She felt that she was the real school beary! So, she bribed doctor to nder Mu However this backfined and she became theughingstock. She dipped from second to fourth ce and was kicked out of thepetition Barbara went crying to her cousin Jillian for help Hearing about her cousin¡¯s trubles, Jillian risponded indifferently. ¡°Es just apetition. only shows that you¡¯re not as good-looking oras cun ning as others.¡± She didn¡¯t want to help her cousin solve this problem Barbara, not getting any help, continued to beg Alian, ¡°atuan, Team stand Mia being the school beauty! ho are you talking about? Jillian stopped what she was doing and looked at Barbas, Show me her picture Barbara immediately showed her Mur¡¯s photo on her phone, That¡¯s het She looks inocent, but she¡¯s really manly¡± a clenched her teeth, Barbara, do you know who she is? Barbara shook her head, ¡°No, Fonly know her family is rich¡± ¡°Ma¡¯s family actually the Cedi Group and she became Andre¡¯s wife this August ¡°You¡¯re joking¡± Barbara was in disbelief The man she thought would be Jin¡¯s husband married Ma She looked at her cousin. ¡°The¡± you.¡± bar¡¯s face darkened as she looked at the oofer us on social media, ¡°You better not do anything else. You can offend that guy Barbara shut up again Jillian knew very how Andre treated Ma dhe famed Mig, Andre would definitely retaliate. ¡°Jillian, wment you always the worn by Mr. Dedito¡¯s side? Why did he marry Ma The was a painful topic for She had been with Andre for years if he had any feelings for her during these years, she could have been a member of the Cedille family but he was emotionless like The elders of the Ceditio family were always wary of her as if they had forgotten everything that happened in the past. Whenever sheyed past events to threaten him, the elders of the Ced to family would tell her that they had repaid their debt to her. Now she was being restricted from entering the Cedito family by the elders. She had to reach out to ham, ut am alwayse up with excuses to avoid her had been a long since she knew anything about the Cedillo family and Now even Andre was dealing with her cousin for Miss sake, which made Jillian more uncertain Consider this lesson, do something good when you get a chance to cover up your bad reputation, and Can¡¯t ept ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice, you did those things. The doctor nd the people you hired has all publicly stated that they ma the retated, it was Andre. He¡¯s someone in carit allo Barber, feeling very disappointed facing i Jillian unked again, ¡°L¡¯s your **mate_night?¡± 1/2 mere acting on your instruction. And it wasn¡¯t Mis Lea? He¡¯s Ma¡¯sckey, always following her around¡± an tumed around and grabbed her cousins arm, ¡°Shut up, do you know who leo is? His dad¡¯s the mayor, and Andre¡¯s his uncle¡± ¡°Wha what? isnt he just a rich kid, howe he.wbara was even mom surprised She did know about these things before. I hereusin had told her sooner, she would have oned to get close to Lead of mouthing him behind his back Wian couldnt believe her dense coutin would talk about Leo like that. She knew they went to the school but didel bell her cousin because she was nning to many And if she had told herein about l es identy, her cousin would have definitely tried to charm him,¡± if both she and her cousin manied into the Cedillo family, and their husband happened to be uncle and nephew, the Cedillos would never let that fly So, for her own future. she never spiled the beans about Lea¡¯s true identny to Barbara. ¡°What do you mean he¡¯s Mis¡¯sckey?¡± Jillian squinted. ¡°Are Theylight or something? ¡°Absolutely, they¡¯ve tamn Ma¡¯s got two best friends, one is a cop¡¯s daughter, the other is Lea. Jn never saw thising. Tarbars, if anything goes down at school between them, let me know. If anyone gives you a hard time, I¡¯ve got your back.¡± ¡°Thanks Jilian¡± One day, while Naomi was at home doing yoga, she got a ring from Jilian Lately, she¡¯s been asking Nanmi to hang out, to go shopping andchil, kasm, you must be bummed having 15 see Mia around the house all the time, right? II you¡¯re stressed it show as your face. You wanna go out and pet some pampering) 14:18 Chapter 80 Chapter 80 Naomi shot down the proposal again, Even if my face is wrinkled, it¡¯s no big deal. At my, it¡¯s moral to have a few wrinkles. By the time you get to my age, you might Kave more werkles thanme¡± Jillian unveiled an awkward grin, then threw in another question, Even if you don¡¯t hang out with me, Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. you should at least edit your son Lea, night? I heard his school is Beating an event My sister told me that Leo was even chosen to be a representative¡± Naomi sponded. ¡°I see my son every day. About the event you mentioned, my son told me he won¡¯t be participating because he thinks it will affect his studies. If you¡¯re interested, you can go yourself ¡°Naomi, what¡¯s up with youtely? Are you avoiding me on purpose? Naomi bedback her anger each time she took Jillian¡¯s calls. Knowing that she had been used, she felt ufortable seeing. Tian. So she had been turning down Jan¡¯ invitations, which was misunderstood as avoidingher 1 do have time for this sort of thing¡± This time, Jan was utterly baffled. Naomi was so hostile to her. What on earth happened? Didn¡¯t she have a huge spat with Mia before? Now she didn¡¯t mention Mix at all, but macked her instead ¡°Naomi, is there a misunderstanding between us? Or did some stir up trouble? Naomi made another strich one yoga mat, ¡°Bring fooled once is my st upidity but it want happen a second time. I¡¯m not giving anyone that chance.¡± At that moment. Mis happened to walk by for some water. She took a peek into Naomi¡¯s yoga room and asked curiously. ¡°Naomi, aren¡¯t you doing yoga? Why are you taking Naomi stood up and asked Ma, ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°Getting some water to drink ¡°She saw Naomi¡¯s empty water cup, kicked her slippers and walked into the yoga room barefoot, Naomi, want me to get you a cup of Naomi nodded, and Mile Naomi didn¡¯t tell Mia that she was on the phone with Jillian, but the believed Jillian could tell Ma¡¯s voice Jillian was holding her phone in one hand and the sheeting wheel in the other, looking but flustered ¡°Naomi ¡°You¡¯re smart, otherwise I wouldn¡¯t have been yed by you. You should understand that some people may have been in the Ceditio family for a longtime but they¡¯ll never truly be part of the Cedillo family. Because some people am too calcting white Ma, though hot tempered, in kind hearted and doesn¡¯t harbor i intertions like her ¡°Naom, who are you talking about?¡± Mia brought over the water put Naomi¡¯s cup on the table and was about to leave Naomi stopped het ¡°Mae here, let me teach you some yoga¡±. Mis looked around the room full of yoga equipment, then promptly bolted. ¡°You lovely girl? Naomi¡¯s affection for Mia was beyond words. She hung up on Jillian, making her stance clear and not gring Jillian a chance to tter her That night, Naomi warned her son,¡± Jiants to get close to you stay away from her to avoid being led astray. If you don¡¯t have your uncle cut off all ties wit you¡± Leo responded, ¡°I know, you¡¯re talking about Jillian, right? I¡¯ve been fed up with her for a long time. You were the only one who saw her as a good person and wanted her to marry my uncle. Even my se nile grandfather knew she was no good only you were fooled by her all along¡± Naomi deeply regreted her misjudgment of character Hansen sat aside, his mouth puckered in dissatisfaction, ¡°When did be sen ile? If I were sende, how could I have found such good girl for your uncle?¡± L es retorted. ¡°You have the nerve to say that? Do you know what kind of daughter inw you¡¯re found for yourself? L es poimed at Mia who was eating berries, and said to his grandfather ¡°Grandpa, you can¡¯t judge a book by its cover. She looks harmless on the outside, but she¡¯s a demon on the inside. She may look sweet and innocent, but that¡¯s just a facade to hide her violent nature!¡± This was Leo¡¯s decade long summary of Ma Marjoyed the delicious bemes, while steg to Leasant Well, he¡¯s right about everything, but nobody believes him. In her husband¡¯s eyes, she was sweet and adorable. In Hansaris eyes, she was ful, sergible, lively, and cul Handrefuted Led¡¯s words. ¡°Stop talking nonsense¡± Leo was speechless. 1. Grandpa I¡¯m telling the truth Hansen replied. ¡°If you date to say anything bad about Mia, just wait for your uncle to teach you a lesson¡± Le s looked at the man beside Ma, only to see the usually aloof Anke, taking the initiative to feed his w sama blueberries. He even asked, ¡°Ts that sweet?¡± Leo was so shocked. He pointed at Ma and said, Uncle, she always offers¡± Hip uncia d¡¯t believe him. Leopard to his mother, ¡®Mom, she bits people. Dont you remember you two had a figh also people. Got a problem with that? Naomi Le looked at his grandfather, but in red madamanecering to look This grandson. 1/2 Leadsly, ¡°None of you believe me. ¨C Everyone unanimously agreed that Lee was not trustworthy Late when he was going to bed, Leo an into the in the halbany. He pointed Ma¡¯s face and used her ¡°You¡¯ve deceived countless people with this pretty face of yours. Even my clever uncle has been fooled by you¡± Ma pointed to her adorable face and confidently said, ¡°Being able to deceive people in also my set. If you¡¯re not convinced, then go me my parents. They¡¯re the ones who gave birth to such a beautiful daughter¡± Leo said angrily. ¡°You¡¯re shameless¡± Darling Le s is being mean to me.¡± Ms looked behind Lee, pretending that her husband was there On hearing these words, Leo didn¡¯t even bother to fum around and look. He was scared off. ughed and said ¡°seems that from now on, I just need to call out darling to the air to subdue you¡± 10%, you can just call me ¡®daring. That work wonders Out of nowhere, Andre showed up, standing behind his wife with his hands behind his back, whispering into her ear Mis jumped in surprise ¡°When did you get here! Andre replied. ¡°Someoneined to me and I came out as soon as I heard Do you want me to help you teach him a lesson?¡± Mis shook her head ¡°forget it, Lea¡¯s pretty pathetic.¡± Truth be told she did sympathize with Leo. 2/2 Chapter 81 Chapter 81 Ma herself wasn¡¯t cure when she¡¯dinisen in the ranks of the Cedillo family. ?n weekend, Andre tarely had the chance to stay home with the family it was ear lo everyone he was actually hanging out with someone special. But that special someone didn¡¯t fuss over it too much. One day at noon, Mia was gerilly farming herself, enjoying the self-made here. ¡°Honey, it¡¯s so hat in summer, how do you guys usually cool downt Hearing this, Andre thought she wanted to get out of the heat, so he asked, ¡°How about I buy you a cation vi?¡± Ma grimaced, ¡°No need to buy a vi But. You can buy something else Like ice cream! Seeing Mia¡¯s yfulugh. Andre unwittingly fell for her charm Under her smile, Andre didn¡¯t think twice and agreed right away In fact, the Rolls Royce GHOST was already on the road, he was humming to him while enjoying the scenery His wife sing in the pa**enger¡¯s seat was a little puzzled, ¡°Haney what are youughing about?¡± Tim about to buy an ice cream for my little girl¡± He never thought he would say that Ma stuck out her tongue, Tm not a little Andre shot her a sideways nce, one hand on the steering wheel, the other stroking his wife¡¯s head. ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re not a kid? Adults don¡¯t eat ice cream in the summer ¡°So, you married a line Do you make out with little girl at night too? How would he dare to touch her if she was a kid? Mididae to voice out thest part, the just enjoyed the thrill in her mind. Andre chuckled again, ¡°You¡¯re an adult little g ¡°Crazy¡± Ma mumered quietly and then shihed her game outside When they ved at her desired location, Mastaned to chat with the store owner right away you at have my favorite crispy cones? The man named Eric came out, he smiled at Ma Tknow you love them, ordered 50 extra spy cones for you this year The man opened the fuck for Main choose herceram Ma saw the cold air from the fridge, like a mist from a fairnd, andate almost wanted to crawl in Andre naturally noticed her excitement and quickly grabbed her arm, ¡°What¡¯s up? You want to crawl int Mia looked at him and nodded frantically Andre tapped lightly on her forehead. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about i Mia stuck out her tongue, she clung to Andre¡¯s arm and acted iride, Tim not coury, just thinking about it Besides, even if I wanted to. I wouldn¡¯t it in the fridge Andre nced at the stuff in the fridge, it was almost packed, indeed there was no momforter Ande felt a little relieved. Enc saw Mia standing with a stranger, and she was even acting cute with him, so te turously asked. ¡°Ma, who is this friend of yourg? A business tycoon like Andre was referred to by a small shop owner ke this? Mu quickly nced at her husband sure enough, he wasnt looking too pleased ¡°Is this your boyfriend? the shop owner asked Mam Andre¡¯s chest rose and fell slightly he reached out this hand to hug the shop owner, ¡®Nice to meet you, I¡¯m Andhi, the CEO of Cedi Inc. Im Mia¡¯s husband¡± The store owner looked purried. ¡°Are you guys married?¡± Ma quickly nodded, ¡°Yes, we got mamed during my summer vacation it was a bit rushed, so we didn¡¯t notify you? The store owner looked at Andre thoughtfully, ¡°Why does that name sound so familiar?¡± Mu pointed to the TV where Andre¡¯s intervine was being broadcasted, he was discussing the economic trends of Eldaria in the next five years, ¡°Look at the guy on TV, that¡¯s The stone owner turned to look at the TV and then it dawned on him 101, remember now, isnt Andrea big shot in the business world? Ma nodded. ¡°Yes, he¡¯s my H¨²sband¡± The store ower tha falud how impolite he had been to Andre But the stour conter was also excited by Andre¡¯s presence, his little shop weed such a high prof customer for the first The store owner sucitedly hug Andre again N?velDrama.Org owns all content. ¡°Ma is a good girl you guys should take good care of each other, be good to her Congrattions on your mariage, may you have a son soon, and may you have many Andre smiled and epted the shop owner¡¯s blessing. ¡°Thank you for your blessings. When we have children, we will defedrly bring them to see you¡±¡± Mia, who was sneakily enjoying her ice cream, almost choked when she heard Having a baby? She and Andre were going to have a baby? That¡¯s impossible. However, few yearster, their son was born Looking at the chubby baby in her arma Mia had ook belly gave birth to a healthy baby¡± Of course, that¡¯s a story for another 11 Why they left the ice cream shop, they bought 50 ice creams. The shop owner also boxed the name of the shop owner and his wife ¡¤ gave Mia a Dieasing pih box, Ma only discounted on the way home that the gift Mia, holding the blessing box, didnt know what to do, she looked all Andre who was driving. ¡°Sweetheart, what should we do?¡± Andre took a nce, ¡°Just ept It¡¯s their blessing When we get home, you can test him to let him know we te ved the blessing gift box? Ma followed her husbands advice and put the blessing gift box back in her bag On the way Andre asked her ¡°Are you guys close¡±¡± Manded, ¡°Yes, were very close¡± Alter saying that. Ma suddenly thought that her husband might be angry she quickly looked at him, but his face mas expressionless, Mia wasn¡¯t sure if he was angry, so she proactively expared. ¡°We were neighbors when I was little. I was very young then, my parents woulde homen every day, and the runny who took care of me and my sister would go home at mgt so I was very scared at right, and my sister kept crying So the shop name and we look us to their home. Their family runs a convenience stone, and I always go there to at some sn?cks Later, my parents¡¯ business started growing and we moved. But every summer, my parents would dier me and Cooper to Eric¡¯s ce to stock up on loads of ice cream and snacks. Len and Jade know about this ce too, cause Led used to help me with my homework. And I couldn¡¯t let my parents know about this, otherwise they¡¯d chew me out. So Id bring them to Eric¡¯s ice cream parlor. Id treat them in ice cream and they¡¯d do my homework. This year, as i was getting mady to ry, Hard nuddenly popped the question about me marrying you Everybody at home was so caught up in this, they lost their appetite for ice cream, so we did by any A summer without ice cream is a summer with a hole in it. I always feel like something¡¯s -issing So today brought you here to get some ice cream¡± Chapter 82 Chapter 82 ¡°So, that¡¯s how it was¡± Andre¡¯s expression softened, ¡°Ma, do you have any other time followers of school Mashook her head ¡°Handing one is enough, if there were more, I couldn¡¯t deal with them all Andre seemed relieved, ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s a tough job, it¡¯s enough to just pick anima¡± Ma totally agreed with her husband ¡°Andre, I didn¡¯t dare 10 say it before because I was a bit womed. I was afd that you¡¯d start bullying if you knew that used to pick on Le ¡°Have I been mean to you? Mashook her head. She looked at her husband¡¯s silhouette, admiring her husband¡¯s handsomeness, ¡®No, you¡¯re always on my side Andre turned face, catching the adoration in his wil¡¯s eyes Mishly looked away. The atmosphere in the car suddenly became quit. Andre was driving, with a gentle smile on hiser of his mouth. The girl next was blushing Once at home, Ma¡¯s shyness finally faded a bit She shouted in the yard. ¡°Leo,e out and help your uncle move the ice cream! Leo came out in his slippers Seeing Andre holding a white box, the rushed forward, ¡°Oh my God How much did you guys buy? Andre handed Leo lighter box with less ice cream in it, and then the camed a box full of ice cream to the house ¡°Ma close the trunk.¡± Mahappily jumped to close the She ran back to the living room, pulled out the entire bottom chaser of the fridge, only to find it packed Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. full of seafood Mia was a bit upset when she realized there wild to som to put the ice cream Seeing the set on Mia¡¯s face, Hansen immediately ordered ¡°Clear out the bottom of the fridge for Ms. Mat ¡°Sr what about all this seated Hansen said ¡°We¡¯ll wait all tonight¡± ¡®But it¡¯s too much Hansen said, if we cant finish it, we throw it out. Why did you buy so evagantly and fill the fudge? Can¡¯t you just buy as you go?¡± The wants at home wet speechless Well, the master was willing to give up expensive seafood just to make room for Mais cheape Mia gave Hanse touched look, Dart, you¡¯re too good to Hansen pa**ed by Mia with a proud face, leaning on his care Knowing he was good to her was mough.. After putting all the ice cream in Mia immediately took one out and brought it to Hamad, have some Harden replied, ¡°¡°) won¡¯t eat it, this is for kich Ma said. ¡°It¡¯s really delicious, really! You should byn¡® Half an hourter ¡°Ma, do you have any more of that chocte one? I didn¡¯t like the cream one, the chocte one was good¡± Hansen asked with a greedy mouth. Naomi also finished two, ¡°Ya, I think the matcha vored ice cream is good¡± We have all of the And bought a lot Wait here, il get them! Leo said. ¡°Get me a cone too while you¡¯re at ¡°You get your own Leo shouted, ¡°But you¡¯re on your way anyway!¡± Hansen enjoyed another chocte ice cream, biting the peanuts inside and the chocte outside, making a crisp sound, it was delicious Bruce came home to find everyone sing on the sofa, each holding an ice cream and enjoying it. ¡°Oh, when did worrating ice cream in this house?¡± Bruce sat on parting Leo¡¯s back, ¡®Leo, did you want to mat ¡°His suggestion was rejected Mia wanted ice cream, to Andre bought it in bak Naomi didn¡¯t spare her son¡¯s dignity Mu andamed ¡°He got a ni dropping me off and left seed to be a call Minded ¡°Bruce, what orice cream do you want? I¡¯ll get it for you¡± Bruce said. ¡°You can choose for me¡± Magot up, went to the fridge and took out a mint vored one for Bruce, ¡°I think you¡¯ll like this ¡° When cool and was at home, her father always liked to shing ice pop was a trest. Thim calling t the person Harry¡± leonice pope he got home, always enjoying it Aeral the greasy and spicy food from sounting In the evening while Andre was socializing he suddenly received a call from Mis, full of sobbing Ancke, Imepsed up, I¡¯m sorry¡± Andre immediately interupted his dinner with everyone, andously holding his phone and rushing home, ¡°What happened?¡± He thought Mia had a dispute with the family Dads in the hospital because of the ice ciam. Aherasking for the address, Andre huntedly drove home He didn¡¯t expect that the ice cream he bought for Mia at noon would cause problems by evening Hall an hourter Andreamed at the hospital Bruce and Naomi were in the ward with Hansen who was lying on the hospital bed In thedor. Ma and Leo were sitting together. Her eyes were red micrying her eyshes still wet with tears. Seeing Andre, she looked very aggrieved, and the tears that had just stopped welled up again. The lime girl locked cute and pitiful with tears streaming down her face. Andre¡¯s throat tightened as he quickly approached his wife. Seeing Andir, Mia¡¯s tears immediately flooded out ¡°Andre¡± She had a lot to say to him, but she could¡® aytish just continued ring She was had that Andre would me het be angry with her. Seeing in front of him, looking so womed and pliul, Andre didn¡¯t know how tofort her Tea, stay with Mia. Im going in to see your grandfather Andre left his wife suth Leo and walked into the ward Bruce, seeing him amive, medutely stood up ¡°Andre, weren¡¯t you busy? Why are you here? I can handle tha alone. Andre nced at his pale, sleeping father ¡°How¡¯s he doing now? ¡°The doctor gave him a pain¨Ckiler injection and he fell asleep¡± Andre burned to the two, Wy¡¯s Macrying Naomi sighed, explering the afternoon¡¯s wants. The ice cream you guys brought back an lunch, dad thought it was so good he couldn¡¯t stop himself. He ate a lot ofice cream. As a result, he got acute gastroendentis that night. His stomach hurt so much that he could not eat, and he vomited and huddiantea, inven nearly pa**ed out. Ma saw the whole thing and it scared the daylights out of her After the doctor said it was all because of the ice creamerload, Mia tick it all on herself. She thinks if she hadn¡¯t been such a gumon for the ice cream, you wouldnt have gone with her to buy it, and dad wouldn¡¯t have eaten it, and then he wouldnt have gollen sick.¡± Andre frowned, ¡°How much did he ea Chapter 83 Chapter 83 ¡°Mia side had three, and remember it that way. Because when God wanted more Min wouldn¡¯t let him have any more because she was womed about his heath. Ma was thefrutto nobce that Dad¡¯s condition wasn¡¯tight at night insisted on taking him to the hospital, but he subornly refused. And then, not even half an hourter he almost Naomi paused, thinking about Mia, who was siming outside ming hersell ¡°Andre, don¡¯t be mad at Mia Bruce and i mere busy taking care of Dad and didnt have time to go out andfort her ?? She couldn¡¯t stop crying with fear, being her husband, you need to understand her she¡¯s still a ked after all and she is just to our family Beces of her ice cream caused her father to fall in hospital, she must be very quity in her heart, but also very regret, the most important is also warned about your anger It¡¯s really not Mia¡¯s fault in don¡¯t be mad at her Go out and give her somefort Yourfort means more to her than anyone else¡¯s¡± And didn¡¯t say anything Nom knew he had made up his mind He had heard her words, but how he would act was up so him But, Naomi fell that, in this family, she and M were of the same status. She had to speak up for this young pit No one understo than her what Mia was womed In the cordon outside. Mia was crying her eyes eyes out in a state of ponc Le handed her tissue ¡°Stop crying it¡¯s not your fault. My candpa is an old man in to seventies. If he wants to indulge his sweet bath, you can¡¯t stop him, night? Mia shook her head. She asked Les. ¡°Your uncle ignored me just now, is he mad at meth Leo shook his head, ¡°I can¡¯t know if he could figure out his une els temper he would have been spared a a lot of beatings Andre came out, and Mia immediately stood up from her char in shock, apologuing in tears. ¡°I¡¯m sony Andre, I wont be greedy for ice cream anymore. Andy¡¯s fate was al gelly cold as he looked at ha cautious wife. Leo though his uncle was mad and quickly exined to Ander, Es really not tha¡¯s fault if grandpwwants to eat, she cant stop him? The whole family was nonsusly exining to Andre that it was not Ma¡¯s fault Theractions made Andre feel like he was the one ming his wit He locked at his wife, who was hanging her head in feat And walked up in het wiped the tears from her eyes, and sad. They will stay in the hospital tonight to take care of Dad, and we will take turns tomomow night¡® Andre hugged shoulders and pulled her in his arms. He insured, ¡°You stay in the hospital torch and take care of your grandpa ¡°Okay But Uncle, dont hat Mia! Leo frished and looked at Ma, who was in Andre¡¯s arms And Inked down at his wife, whose eyes were blury, dont say much, jud Of her and walked away After getting in the car Mia buckled her sebeli and anked caubously. Andre, when we get home, are you going to hit me?¡± Andre flicked her forehead lightly. The heady done Mia felt wired and started crying agam This left Andrea stata loss. He asked, ¡°Ddihurt you?¡± Mia shook her heat as she cried. ¡°You didn¡¯t hit hard enough! Anche suddenlyughed, finding him crying wife rather adorable Andre drove home Actions speak ouder than words ¡°The so calledfort might just be telling her, everyone forgives you, it¡¯s not your fault, but this might make Mia Think it¡¯s her fault.¡± However, Andr¡¯s way offorting his wife was a little different. He didn¡¯t give verbafort. This wife was worried that he would abuse her when they got home, he would gently knock on her head to make her feel better. On the way home, Uj clutched her skirt Lightly After she stopped crying, she started thinking about how to make up for her mistake When they got home. Andre got out of the cat walked to the pa**enger anda, opened the car door and led is wile home by the hard. Ma was some al curfused She could walk by herself why did Arde need to holder hand? Was ha mud ai her anymore? When they got home, He noticed that the servants who had tem gossiping about her qualed down the moment they saw her holding hands with her husband Before Mis could think too much, the butter asked womedy ¡°Anda did you juste back from the hosphat? How¡¯s Mr Hansen The Cedimy¡¯s servants were all trying to find out what was going on because the oldman had suddenly be diary and insteady in the liang room water which had scared them I was said that it was because Ms Mahad given him log much cecream f anything happened to Hansen this lime, everyone was curious about how the Ceulo family would deal with is. Mis, who had just ved Up fine, he will rest in the hospital. Butler,e with me to a study Anche led Mia by the hand up the steps In the study i stood by Andre¡¯s side, as still as a tian She understand what Andre was doing and why he had called her to tie audy era whee, the butler cam 1/7 1170717 Andreasked directly. ¡°How much ice cream did my dad sneak today?¡± The butler remained silent Ma looked at her husband, who was asking seriously, and repeated his words in her mind. Dad sneak ice cream? In the face of the silent butler, Andre continued. ¡°Even though I¡¯m not home most of the time, I know his character. Il Mis doesn¡¯t let him eat, he will steak and eat until he¡¯s sick of And the only one who would help him sneak ice cream in you¡± Mis looked at the embara**ed butter in surprise, then at her husband. Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. ?? Andre ¡°I¡¯m not asking this to go to the hospital and scold him. I just don¡¯t want my wife to take on all the me that doesn¡¯t belong to her, making her feel guilty and Hearing Andre¡¯s worth, Mia¡¯s eyes immediately tumedeed, and her nase instantly filled with a sour feeling with tears swirling in her eyes She didn¡¯t understand what it felt like to be moved before, but at that moment she did The Cedillos didn¡¯t me her, in fact, theyforted bec Les urged her to stop beating herself up and Naomi was super understanding But the more people tried to console her the more miserable the termly beling that it was her fault that Hansen got sick and was hospitalized However Andre showed up, and he didn¡¯t coddle her at all. Instead he brought her back and used facts to show her than she had nothing to do with this. His atkom spoke louder than a thousand words. The butter was aware of the gossip among the house staff, ming the young Me Mia for the mess. After all no one but him knew that the old man had been sneaking ice cream behind their backs Innking again at Ma, her eyes red and swollen from crying the butler couldn¡¯t bear it. Add to that Andres sharp wit, even if he tried to cover it up, he could sniff out the truth H Chapter 84 Chapter 84 ¡°Mr. Hansen went and sneakily ate another matcha ice cream, two cones, and a shaved ion ¡° Ma was stunned As a young woman, eating that much would already be bad for her health, let alone for Hansen, who was in his seventies. There was no way his body could handle that much sugar Upon hearing the news, Andre clenched his fist, then rxed again I see. You can go rest now.¡± The butler left the study When it was just the two of them, Andre stood up, turned, and looked at his wife. Tears welled up in Mia¡¯s eyes as she met her husband¡¯s gaze ¡°Honey¡± ¡°Mm?¡± Andre¡¯s voice was clear and maic, a hint of anticipation in his tone as he waited for her to continue. Hesitantly, Mia wrapped her arms around Andres waist and buried herself in his chest. ¡°Thank you¡± Her granitude was enough to show that she understood his intentions A small smile appearedion Andre¡¯s handsome face He wrapped one arm around her slim waist while the other stroked her hair ¡®Feeling better now! Mia nodded in his arms ¡°Let¡¯s sleep early tonight, and visit Dad in the hospital tomorrow¡± Mia nodded again, but she didn¡¯t let go of her husband After five minutes of hugging Andre couldn¡¯t help but tease her If we keep this up, we¡¯re gonna end up sleeping in the study¡± Only then did Mia blush and let go of her husband At the hospital, Hansen had abo woken up. I took him a moment to realize he was in a hospital when he saw the neede in the back of his hand Seeing he was awake, Naomi and Bruce quickly asked about his condition ¡°My stomach still hurts a bit Hansen said. Bruce immediately sent his son to fetch the doctor. ¡°Leo, go get the doctor from his office for a check¨C up¡± Leo ran off as fast as he could. When he came back, he was followed by a doctor in a white coat Seeing that Hansen was conscious, the doctor asked him, ¡°Mr. Cedillo, how many ice creams did you really eat this afternoon?¡± Hansen hesitated, thinking about the trash in his bedroom. Ticant remember¡± Nam told the doctor I remember clearly. It was three. We were always watching him, making sure he didn¡¯t eat too much. He only had three almost¡± The doctor interrupted Naomi, ?nsking at Hansen. ¡°Mr Cedilo, as the patient, only you can tell us how bad your condition is tonight. If you really can¡¯t remember, then don¡¯t answer me. But remember, you cant overindulge in cold food anymore¡± Hansen nodded Bruce, who had noticed something was off, asked his father once the doctor left, ¡®Dad, did you secretly eat too much?¡± Hansen immediately closed his eyes and pretended to sleep Naomi, having known Hansen for many years, recognized his evasive behavior. She was convinced he had snuck more ice cream. ¡°Dad, why would you do this? If you wanted to eat mon, why not just wait until tomorrow? By sneaking eats and ending up in the hospital, you¡¯ve frightened Nick, making her feel guilty and regretful. Her eyes were swollen from crying do you know that. And to think the real reason was you sneaking extra helpings.¡± Hansen never thought that sneaking a few ice creams could lead to a hospital stay Being in his seventies and a proud man, it was an awkward situation for him, so he didn¡¯t want to discuss it. However, his eldest son kept pressing him. ¡°Dad, it¡¯s just us here, no one else will know what you did Can you tell me how many ice cream you really ste this afternoon?¡± Hansen opened his eyes, avoiding his soris gaze. 1 just sneaked a few blies.¡± Leo also questioned, ¡°Grandpa, how many is a few?¡± Hansen bever thought he would be in this situation. it was embatasing enough to be caught sneaking ice cream, let alone being interrogated by his son, daughter¨Cinw and grandion He felt as though is dignity was being eroded Each member of the three person family asked him one by one. Finally Hansen said itably, ¡°Wright, alright, I had four.¡± The family lettfulent Naomi was the first to exim, ¡°Dad How could you eat so much ice cham? You had seven ice creams much older¡± Bruce couldn¡¯t believe his father would act as childably, with such ack of self¨Ccontrol Leo said, ¡°Grandpa, when my uncle and aunt visit tomorrow, you should admit your mistake ernoon! Even Les would¡¯t dare eat like this, and youte so Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Why should I admit to any mistake? I¡¯m your father and grandfather, where did I go wrong?¡± Hansen, coring deeply about les dignity, was furious at his grandson¡¯s words Bit Lead, ¡°Don¡¯t you see, the servanda at hom must be ming Mial Myunca looked really angry when hl, and he must¡¯ve scolded my aunt when he got home. But she¡¯s innocent. You¡¯re the one who sneaked and ma ¡°Alright, all of you get our Hansen rallyst semper and Hulda med to mall, ¡°You¡¯re all so annoying pamas go away.goge butler for me just get out Leo huffed, ¡°You won¡¯t even let ticize you. Grandpa, you¡¯re in the future. I won¡¯t apologize either¡® Hansen wished he could teach his grandson a lesson with his care Bruce saw his father¡¯s temper ring up Considering his father¡¯s health, he dicht, want any more arguments. ¡°Leo, take your mom and leave. Let your grandpast for the night¡± Nom said, ¡°Dear, I stay with you.¡± Brace patted his wife¡¯s shoulder and whispered something in her ear. Naomi understood and obediently stood up, piling her still angry son out of the room ¡°Mom, what are you doing? My grande is so stubbam, I need to teach him a lessen en was somewhat regretful as he was pulled away Naomi remembered her husband¡¯s warning earlier so she asked her ton, When your unclecht yesterday, was his expressantrally fine?¡± Leeded, saying sendusly asked him if he was going to give Mihard time when he got home, but he didn¡¯t answer me. He just took Ma and left.¡± Nom pictured Anche with a long face, grabbing Mur¡¯s hand taking her home in a huff, and then shutting the door to give her a good telling.nl! Then, in her mind¡¯s eye she saw Mix with bruises all out her back crying her eyes out, which was heart wrenching Naomi had seen Andre when he was fierce, even to Leo when he made a mistake, this man was too ruthless. Plus she and Andre never lived together, and barely exchanged a hundred words throughout the year, so she didnt know much about him. She could only guess that he might have a violent streak, and wouldn¡¯t pull his punches when he got physical Thinking about it that way Naomi teh that it would lead had result What if the Inon family¡¯s darling daughter got hurt? They were head over heels for their girl and if they knew she was winged by someone from the Cedillo family they wouldn¡¯t take a lying down, would they? She quickly pulled out her phone and dialed Andre Mawas in the arms of that man again She whispered, ¡°Honey, I feel hal¡°: C ww 12.23 鈥檚 Rollercoaster Romance Novel Chapter 85 ¡¯s Rollercoaster Romance Novel Chapter 85 Mia wanted to tell her husband to stop clinging to her like a farmace in this scorching heal, especially right after she¡¯s taken a shower and started to sweat again, Andre responded ¡°Well, if you¡¯re hot, just take off your clothes¡± Never mind, forget i said anything¡± He chuckled slightly lifting the covers a bit to let in some color. But trying to get him to let go of her? That¡¯s impossele. He was slowly breaking down Mia¡¯s defenses. Getting her to move from the couch to the bed, and then from the edge of the bed into his arms, all within a few days. At this rate their rtionship was bound to take a leap forward sooner rather thanter Like a wolf stalking is prey, Andre observed and lured Ma into his trap step by step As he closed his eyes, a slight smile yed on his ips. Mia could feel his Adam¡¯s apple bob as he swallowed She blushed, think ng her husband was acting a bit off. That night her heart warmed at the thought of him, and the couldn¡¯t help but smile And so, she moved closer to his husband Feeling Mia snuggle up in him, Andre naturally held onto her tighter Andre, a usually different guy had never really liked anyone before, nor did he know what it felt like to ake a girt What he did know was a feeling of possessiveness. Forced to many a young girl, he was mustani, both physicaly and emotionally. He even thought about humiliating his wife, a**uming she was a scheming woman But then he realized he was witong Ma was far from scheming. She was utterly defenseless He still remembered when she deliberately called him ¡°Old Andre. With his high social status, even his father and brothers would think carefully about what they said to him, and it had been a long time since anyone dared to make him angry. Herughter hard provoked him. His anger red, and in the heal of the moment, heshed out at her But then, he witnessed the discord at home. Arguments,her willing to back down Fights, neither willing to pull the punches Mia, with her straightforward and honest character would directly confront him. Hot tempered, she would fight him And sometimes she would be gentle, calling him honey like a little ken How powerful was the charm ofnguage? When she softly called him ¡°honey, his heart would flutter, and he would walk away pretending it was nothing even pretending to ghote her She was also very obedient, doing many things he never got tired of But sometimes she could be a chatterbox, chirping away like a little bird always chattering by his side And her scent it was very pleasant When did he start wanting to possess her? It seemed that he went had been stimting his senses all along Andre discovered that girls have a delicate fragrance He hugged her, pinned her down, held her kissed her. Ma was soli like marshmallow and smelled heavenly, He didn¡¯t have high expectations for manage, but after gelling to know Mia, he found her to be pure and guileless, her emotions disyed openly on her face including her shyress which was sometimes presistibly adorable. He thought she was beautiful, herughter wasforting, and her personality was likable. If he had to choose someone to spend the rest of his life with he would choose her Then, L es came home A sens of events after Leup return made Andre even more determined to win Ma¡¯s heart He encoded sending his nephew abroad to cut off the connection between him and his wife was at a misunderstanding This little kitten was at lea The title of her jusband was also his The was good Today when he looked at her, she was worried and remoiselul,nking at him with leary myn He looked sous, not because he didn¡¯t like her like this, but because seeing her cry made him feel bad Should hefort When had the alool M Cedilo everforted anyone with finder words? He wouldat But he would make his wife feel better in his ut may Look, he did it She willingly moved closer to him, into his embrace That nicht, he held her and she d ick resist at all. 12:23 Andre locked down at his wife. ¡°We you not going to sleep?¡± Ma was deep in thought. She was thinking about something different, ¡°Honey, do you think we should bring up dad¡¯s secret ice cream indulgence when we visit him tomorrow? He probably doesn¡¯t want us to know. If we bring it up, he¡¯ll be embarra**ed. He¡¯s over sevenly, and in would make him ufortable How about we pretend we don¡¯t know? And you don¡¯t scold him Andre didn¡¯t think that much Il not, ignore him¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care about his business. If you want to say it tomorrow, sty Ma looked at him, smiling know you don¡¯t really mean that. You care about dad¡± ¡°How do you know? Mid on the bed dose to him. With nothing better in do, she started pinching his arm. As she yed with his arm she exined her reasoning. ¡°Because when I called you to say dad was in the hospital even though you were busy with something important, you still rushed to the hospital as fast as you could¡± He chuckled. How do you know I was busy with something important and not just drinking? How do you know rushed to the hospital because I was womel about him and not because I heard you crying on the phone? As they talked, he curved his arm, his hand rubbing her shoulcer, pulling her strap down them faing for her Mia was busy taking and didn¡¯t notice his subtle moves ry importam ¡°Because they and you had an important meeting tonight, and everyone said it was very As for your second question. I think you heard me crying and thought I was causing trouble at home, but when you heard dad was in the hospital, you got even more worried and rushed to the hospital was in the oscital. When you ared and saw your farmer ying in bed. If you really didnt care about your father, you wouldn¡¯t have rushed to see him when you heard he was looking gloomy you may have been worried but you gave off an air of impatience¡± Andre ced his hand on the girl¡¯s son shoulder, looking at the girl who was the first to understand his T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. inner thoughts with profound eyes. ¡°Ma, have you noticed any other quirks about matt Ma pouted, ¡°Co I have to tell it alt Andreaded, ¡°Yes say al It¡¯s been a long time since anyone knew him this deeply He wamed to hear all Chapter 86 Chapter 86 Manced to the do and noticed Andre¡¯s hand on her shoulder. She didn¡¯t hit own but instead asked her hubby, Babe, do you know you have a hobet when you hold my hand Mheld hand that was resting on her right arm. When she suddenly let go, his grip tightened before WM ¡°Babe,¡± she said, ¡°every time you hold my hand and I let go, you instinctively hold tighter before letting go. Why in tha And looked at his own hand, reminded of a time long ago when he lost someone because he failed to hold on tight enough So, that¡¯s why i he instinctively herds on a blighter Andre cleaned his throat. ¡°Wrything As night fell, Mia mustered the courage to ask. ¡®Hotes, why do you have this habet? And put his arm ¡°Yes, there¡¯s more. The Pelch hands now. around her shoulders gently pulling her into his ribs, letting her snuggle up ketten ve just realized this N?velDrama.Org owns all content. habit myself. You were saying there¡¯s Ande¡¯s phone rang just as Mix was about 10 continur They both nced at the echide table. ¡°Babe, your phone ringing¡± Andre¡¯s engine was the dul default one, which he never bothered to change, while Mia. being a joung girl, pengeringtone to her favore songs. The maratonous ningure was a deadi that it was Andres phone. Andre reached out to grab his phone. ¡°It¡¯s Naomi) he sain before answering. Hej Naami Nasm sounded womed ¡°And, how are things with you and Ma? And Inked his wife, the leavesdropping kitten is is as, and held phone closer to his way, making Malean incloserter Suse arough, the time girl had no choice bun to lean against her husband¡¯s chest to eavesdrop, her car at his mouth. Completely amused Andre patted has don ¡°We¡¯re about to pa so sleep, what: Namined to expan, And, just found out that dad¡¯s stomach ache is from eating too much ceram, he stuck in four more scoops after going back to his room Dont be mad at Mie when you get home, and don¡¯t bully her, okay? ami, womed her words fell on deaf ears, reiterated, ¡°Weche, petting a wife isn¡¯t easy. Mamay be younger and a bit nave, but you need to be patient andmunicate with ou cant use force She¡¯s the wife you brought home Andre agreed once again Naomi conged Tknow you mays, wet thay nad ?se together aften, but I genuinely hope you fou have a good marriage I dont mind how you treat Lea, but if you ht Mastell leave And wohout her, you¡¯ll have no wie Mia is precious to our family if youy hand on her, the hun family wont take it lightly.¡± My against her husband¡¯s chest. Quietystering to Naomi Speck for her Im saying altis because I hope you and Mia are happy¡± Naomi truly believe Ma was a goodgr Andre chuckled loung at his wife who was listening interly He put the phone near Mas ar ¡°That have Is your Ma took the phone stting up on the bed. ¡°He, in Mal ¡°U, Ma how are you? Naomi asked sounding womed. Mua rea**ured her ¡®Bont worry I¡¯m good. Her worky a hand on me. When we got home, he just peeled our butlil about how much ice cream cual had today Dice he knew the truth, he justforted me and told me not to me myrt ¡°Or that good¡±hasm and ¡°Andes a goodman, poules should get along Since you¡¯re okay, I hang up now and let your brother i tw, so he went, wolly¡± Muchuckled Sv. Anot was seen at a wife Leutet amongst his family After hanging up. Ma stugged back into ha amu, cing the phone on the bedside table She snuggled back under the divers with her busband Andre, why does everyone sk you would hi Mia was purced iner husband was usually very gentle Andre cant¨¦e. ¡°I dont grow up with them burytime canta back, it was mandy to disciplineles. They probably think I have a nolent steak because they¡¯ve seen me be 100 Bush milliu¡¯ Andre lightly smacked Mary lett, When you nning to no oll bq? Ma covered her butt her face turning ned i go back to my ban kom Anda ataked her har again. ¡°Are you going to battle? ¡°Mama¡± Hp, what are you going about Maami in tight of you hit me twil leave And yo?t lose ma there didnt pou?¡± he asked hapter 86 Mia stayed sile. She was 100 embara ssed to say where he¡¯d hit het Magomad and turned around, ignoring Andre turned her back wound and held her again. his time he dicht tease her but gely pred her back, ¡°Let¡¯s sleep¡¯ Misobediently closed her eyes, ready to go to sleep The next day she brought food prepared by the household staff to sit Hansen in the hospital. On the way he was still eating ice cream And didn¡¯t understand what was so great about ice cream. She had already had breakfast, yet she was still eating ice cream Hearing her husbands question. Mu preder ice cream to him, Tabe, given try I bet you¡¯ll eit Andresumed his face away He couldn¡¯t stomach the sickly sweet taste of the con cream Ning his refusal, Mia reacted her hand and continued song in the dessert beisel the time she reached the hospital, the ice cream was all gone She walked the hospital caring food Leo was chingon a bench in the camdat, helping out In the room, Naomi and Bruce were catching some 75. Last night, Hansen suddenly had a stomachache again. He spent the whole night meng and Trally fell asleep in the early moming L es, having pulled a alock of chaustion on ba Matted into the patient¡¯s room 12:24 Chapter 87 Chapter 87 Nom was catching some 25, when a gently tapped on her shoulder, whispering ¡°Naom Naomi woke up to find Mia and Andre them. She asked. ¡°Why are you guys here so early¡±. Maput some food on the table and sat next to Nam, Andre and the early so you and Bruce can take L es home and get some rest¡± ¡°We¡¯re fine.¡± Naomi gave Mia and Andrea once-over, and checked Mia¡¯s hands and feet quietly. She was releved to find nothing s Mia noticed Naomi¡¯s Intle maneuver and smirked. She was such a conside woman ¡°Don¡¯t worry Naomi, Andre didn¡¯ty a finger on me. He could take me even if he tried Naomi relieved at that, ¡°had a dream that you and Andre couldn¡¯t make it ¡± ¡°That¡¯s a dream, not a reality¡± Miaughed. Once inside the room, Andre kept his es on the old man lying on the bed but didn¡¯t ask anything Being his wife, Mis knew Andre was womed and asked Naom, how was dadst night?¡± to sleep¡± Naomi exined, ¡°He was much better after getting an IV and painkiterst night, but the pain came backter. He had to get another shot to be able to Andre nced at his wife She spoke the words of concern that he wanted to say but couldnt ¡°Let¡¯s not wake dad up. You and Bruce go home and get some test. Andre and I wil stay here and handeething¡± Naomi shook her head, ¡°You and Leo are too young to take care of someone Andes always busy and he¡¯s not good at caregiving ether. You guys should go home.¡± Mafely replied ¡°No way our spoility to look after dad when he¡¯s sick I may be a bit clumsy but there are a lot of nurses around during the day, I can ask them if I don¡¯t know something¡± Naomi kept insisting but Mafimly refusa And also sad ¡°Bro, you should go home with Naomi You guys have been up all night, you can¡¯t handle it. Ma and can help out.¡± Bruce took a look at his exhausted wife and fruly nodded in agreement. Bruce and Naom went home and found Leo sleeping on a chair outside The couple gently told their son, ¡°Leo,e home with us and sleep¡± Leo woke up startled and followed his parents home. Only Ma and Ande were left in the hospital room Consider Largers status, the doctor was only taking care of him so there was no moring rounds In the room, the doctor hade once, found him sleeping and let And left with the doctor, before leaving he told his wide Ma ¡°Ma, call me when my dad wakes up You¡¯re not great at caregiving. 11 do it¡± Mia pouted and said. ¡°Honey I may not be good at caregiving but can learn. Imalittle embarra**ed that you said that in front of the doctor¡± Andre wore an indulgent. looking at the doctor¡¯s retreating figure he said, ¡°only told you after the doctor left, don¡¯t worry only know¡± After saying that, shut the door and humed after the doctor to ask about the father¡¯s condition, Mia was left alone in the room, killing time. She got up and walked around, even got bored enough to start examining the nts in the mom Perhaps knowing his wife would be bored And came back with two bags of snacks Ma looked at the packs in his hand and asked, ¡°Honey, who did you buy these for?¡± Andre said ¡°dont eat them, and my dad can¡¯t eat them, who else is there in this room?¡± Ma immediately broke into a smile, she quickly took the snacks from Andre and looked at him with a smile, Haney thank you¡± She could already imagine her husband in a suit picking out snacks for her in the supermarket. She was grateful and wanted to kiss her husband But she was shy and didn¡¯t dare to impress il Andre ruffed her hair and sat on the sol Mia asked, ¡°Honey, what did the doctor say?¡± Andre replied, ¡°Nothing serious, my dad just had an acute re-up and he¡¯s old, so he needs Mu nodded, then opened a bag of chips to start eating. in the quiet room, only the sound of healing chips could be heard Andre was watching his wife eat the One bag two bags, three bags, ste stched to lento, then sie son arket. ¡°Mu, did you eat enough this momag?¡± The looked at the empty packages on the nk Snacks are fed food, although the packaging looks big (bet not muchide, it doesn¡¯t you up¡± Apdre chuckinnon revealing the fact that she loved snack 12:24 1 Soon, Hashe woke up They quickly went over and asked, ¡°Bad, how are you feeling Hansen tumed hex bead to look at them, ¡°Why me you here? Ma replied. ¡°We¡¯re here to take over and look after you¡± He still looked very weak. Andre got him a ** of water and gave it to him to drink. Just then, a nurse came to piveman TV Ma immediately made way, she couldn¡¯t stand the sight of neecies, so she hid behind her husband N?velDrama.Org owns all content. The nurses ¡°Sit, you need to have five bags of fluid today Your Hood pressure was a bit highst night so today¡¯s fluid includes medication to lower your blood pressure Call us when it¡¯s done, we¡¯lle to change the metheat on¡± Hans nodded Mu poked her heard nut from behind her husband and found that the nurse had abeatly freshed with the IV, so she came out from behind her husband. Before leaving the nurse noticed the bags of snacks on the small table and told Andre. ¡°Mr. Cello, the salient can¡¯t eat these snacks.¡± Andre looked at the empty packages that his anda had eaten and nodded. ¡°Those pracks am for my wife is kill life¡± The nurse locked enviously at Mia leaning against Anore, then Irli In less than an hout everyone at the nurse station knew that he usually aloof Mr Cedilo bought snacks to kit time for his wife. When Mia went out to get water she could feel the nurses secretly watching her She returned to the room and told her husband. ¡°Honey, you go get the water next time. Everyone a watching me.¡± Andreasked, ¡°Why are they eyeballing you?¡± ¡°They¡¯re all whispering behind our backs, saying you¡¯ve been treating me well, buying me to many snacks. They¡¯re saying you¡¯re nothing like the cold man n= ¡°V¡± Matald her husband what she had overheard Andre cracked use isn¡¯t that a good thing?¡± 12:24 Ma frowned slightly, ¡°Well, this is kinda awkward¡± These were clearly not good at caregiving They had actually forgomen about Hansen lying in bed. Chapter 88 Chapter 88 Ma meticulously fed Hansen water while Andre sat beside the asionally checking the rate of the thi Hamen, who was feeling pretty hungry, asked ¡°Could you ask the butler when breakfast will be served Mu¡¯s hand holding the water paused mid-air Hansen had been awake for an hour already and she and her husband hadpletely forgotten about the breakfast they brought. Andreas coughed awkwardly ¡°Badum, Andre and we actually brought you breakfast. You were sleep and we put it in theer and forgot about it, and, and they forgot about it till now Sure enough, these two were pretty unreliable. Handen was a bit ticked off. We the two really here to take care of him? They even forgot about a patient¡¯s mea Andre stood up and brought the meal box from the small dining table nearby Mis quickly set the table and let Andre prepare breakfast for his father Somewhat awkwardly she said ¡®Dad, the soup was too hot just now, but now it¡¯s just warm, so you don¡¯t need to blow oni Hansen replied, ¡°So, should I thank you for cooling the soup? ¡°Haha, we¡¯re all family, no need for thanks. Migughed. Seeing her like this, Hars en couldn¡¯t help but checke A smile fugged at the corner of Andre¡¯s mouth took He served the food and, in an attempt to make up for forgetting about breakfast earlier, Mia volunteered to deed Hansen She sat on the edge of the bed holding the te and said ¡°bad let me feed you Harden replied, ¡®I dare not eat it if you feed me Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s absolutely safe. You can eat with peace of mind. Ma scooped up some soup, and without blowing on it, brought it to Hansens mouth. Hansen hesitantly opened his mouth, ¡°Um, um, it¡¯s too hot it burns Hansen barely had a sip when his tongue felt like it was scalded. The soup was so hot it brought bears. to his eyes. Seeing Hansen¡¯s difort. Ma panicked ¡°What what should we do, ?ud? 1, 1, I don¡¯t know what to do?¡± mouth was still burning Matuned to the patient, who couldn¡¯t speak, for adren Andre quickly pulled out a piece of paper and put it under his father¡¯s mouth, ¡°Dad, spit it out! Hansen spit out the soup into his sons hand With his mouth finally relieved. Harden took a deep breath. ¡°Ma go get some rest. I¡¯m 100 old to be your g uinea pig Ma felt awkward she ad messed up again Then I let my husband feed you Magot up from her seat and nced at her husband Andre went to the bathroom to mash his hands and then sal by the bed, taking the utensils from his wife. Usually high and mighty Andre was a bit nervous at the moment. He¡¯d never taken care of anyone before let alone fed them Anone had no problem dealing with the cutthroat world of business. No matter howplicated the business fight, he could handle it with ease. However, he was not adept at taking care of his father¡¯s darly needs, like breakfast He took the te and spoon from his wife, feeling a bit podl in the wrist. His young wife was still a lime get who was very good at careging But he was nearly thirty. If he couldn¡¯t take case of people, he¡¯d be aughingstock. N?velDrama.Org owns all content. He leaned from his wife¡¯s mistake and blew on the food before leading the Hansen thought Byls couple was a bit unreliable when the soup came to his moutly he blew on it again, just to be safe, before taking the fest bate ¡°Ander, in this your feat Line feeding me?¡± Hansen asked And He had always had a rocky rtionship with tas Seeing her husband¡¯s cold attitude towards his father, Mia iried to lighten the mood, Tad meie You¡¯re not cut out for caregiving* stuck her tongue. Til learn eventually¡± ¡°You wore alle to¡± Hansen knew Mia mas Hold that a person who has been taken Add a decent jo feeding his father n Haora. She had been spoiled growing up, always bring afortable kida. Hat paren?L PAKET r and his wife were taking care of his father logriter, feeding him and chatting with hun, trying to make him happy. Everything seemed harmonious. However, when Andre finished feeding him, Hansen noticed some water stains on his hospital gown. This was his meal staining his clothes Mis walked up to her husband and held his arm, Honey you don¡¯t know how to feed someone either?¡± Andre showed a ram embarra**ment, ¡°It¡¯s my first time to do that¡± Hansen had a need in his hand right now and was unable to change his clothes hey down, he would dirty the bed. He wore a stem face clearly unhappy ¡°Are you doing this to torture me?¡± he asked Mia blinked gul ¡°Dad, you should feel lucky You¡¯re the first patient Andre and I have taken care of Hansen replied, ¡°So, should I feel honored? Mia nodded without hesitation, ¡°Yes¡± Andre looked at his wife, puzzled. How did she manage to be so shameless? Hansen was speechless. Why was this little girls stu pid? However, when Hansen thought the torture was over Soon enough the nurse came to change the dressing and saw Hansen¡¯s clor Hansen wanted to lie down and sleep, but he was a bit of a neat freak. If his clothes weren¡¯t clean, he couldn¡¯t be down Mua came up with another idea ¡°Dad, you can first remove the neede in your hand, then change into clean clothes, and then get another injection¡± Listen to that such a smart idea. Look at that, such a smart perton Hansen couldnt hold back and shouted at Ma. ¡°You make it sound so easy but I¡¯m the one geting pr icked, it¡¯s in my body. You wont feel me pain, but I will¡± Mament on, ¡°It¡¯s just like a little ant bile, doesn¡¯t hurt a bit.¡± Pointing at the furse Hansen said. ¡°Come here, give her a shot, one that feels like an ant bite! The nurse was new and was a bit thrown off by Hansen¡¯s request ¡°But, ma¡¯am ist sick, she questioned Hansens mind raced, ¡°Who said she ain¡¯t sick? Then¡¯s something seriously off about her way of thinking can¡¯t you see 117¡± Chapter 89 Chapter 89 Mia instantly became anxious ¡°Dad I have a smart mind. Howe you¡¯re suddenly saying I have a problem now? Hansen: ¡°The strategy you just said is something no one could think of, yet you¡¯re iming to be smart, Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. I think you¡¯re just an airhead¡± Mat least I still have hair in my head dad you¡¯re almost bald¡± Andre, on the side, had a growing smile on his face. Even the nurse was trying to hold back herughter The squabble between this old man and young woman was just too amusing Andre rarely had moments this joyful, he wasn¡¯t just sing now, he wasughing out loud, even his eyes crinkling Upon hearing Mu¡¯s words, Hansen angrily threw off his nket and got out of bed. ¡°Hase, what are you doing? You¡¯re still on a dip, you can¡¯t just move around¡± The nurse humedly reminded him Hansen pointed at Mia, all worked up. She called me bald can¡¯t stand it!¡± Mia, bring cheeky, do dord. ¡°Ch my Dad¡¯s gonna smack me She quickly hid in Andes strong arms. With such swiss, Andre didn¡¯t even have time to react, suddenly he had a lovely wife in his arms. His lovely wife was clinging omo his neck, like a little kitten She yfully said, ¡°Your wife is about to get hit by your dad will you protect me?¡± Andre had one arm around his wife¡¯s waist, the other holding her tight protect you ¡°Both of you out of here, I¡¯m about to die from anger Supposedly here to take care of the putt Knock knock, knack, the sound of knocking rang out. Under everyone¡¯s watchful gaze, Aaron and Mason entered the ward they ended up infuriating him instead. ¡°Dad, mom Ma, sting on her husband¡¯sp, eximed upon seeing Aaron and Madisonal the doar As soon as Ma¡¯s parents entered, they saw ther daughter in their son inw¡¯s arms, seemingly flirting Hansen, the patient, was standing on the side, clothes wrinkled, a bit din, seemingly very angry ¡°Mia, why are you in Andre¡¯s arms? Madison asked Mia and her husband exchanged nces, and she quickly stood up from his arms, ¡®Uh, uh, we were just ying¡± Aaron and Madison put down their gifs, looking at Hansen, ¡°Hansen, why aren¡¯t you lying in bed?¡± Hansen shot Ma a re, and then got back into bed was just fooling around with a ¡± Madison, who knew her daughter well, was sure Mia was chill acting like she did at home before she got mamed Madison pped Mia on the back, ¡°Did you make someone angry again?¡± ¡°Mom-I didn¡¯t-Im mamed now You can¡¯t hit me anymore.¡± Ma pouted, sulking as she moved to her husband¡¯s side Seeing his wife being hit, Andre¡¯s face immediately turned cold He ced his hand on her back where she was just hit asking her, ¡°Does it hurt?¡± Mia acted cute, it hurts- it¡¯s definitely red now¡± She was trying to act cute towards her husband, but Hansen saw it. Aher all Mia was now his daughter-inw Madson hitting Mia in front of him was a bit uneptable. ¡°Aaron, do you often hat Mu at home?¡± he asked. Aaron, singers intention to remind him and his wile, was a bit displeased Ma was their own daughter, but they couldn¡¯t even hit her anymore? Madison responded, ¡°She¡¯s disobedient at home, If we can¡¯t reason with her we¡¯ll scare her abil.¡± Hansen silently nodded. ¡°Our fatrily never hits our children. We reason with them. If a child doesn¡¯t listen, it¡¯s our fault as parents. In any case, our family doesn¡¯t resort to violence, you should learn fromus Hansers words, luckily Lao did hear Other he might have himself unconscious in the bathroom Was their family really one that doesn¡¯t hit their children? Wasn¡¯t he beaten up all the time growing up? Why didn¡¯t anyone ever reason with him? He was capable of Mia realed, Hansen was protecting her subtly She quickly stepped into mediate ¡°Well, dad, sometimes I really do make people angry. When I make my parents as angry an you just were, they would hit me Recalling earlier Hansen too got so angry he got out of bed If that¡¯s the case, then a beating was indeed wattanted, no holding back He awkwardly coughed a bit Agon quickly changed the topic, asking ¡°Hansen, why were you suddenly hospitalized?¡¯ Milexined, Dad, my father whSuddenly realizing there were three men in the wand, of which her father How Sould she address them? she ski pped the achess. ¡°Because of old age, his stomach in good shape, digestion is good her, so he pitalized to acute gastroenteritis.¡± 12:247 She knew Hansen had a high ego, so she didnt say it was because he snuck some ice cream that he was hospitalized, rather it was due to old age. This way Hansen¡¯s reputation would be a bit better He epted Ma¡¯s clem exnation As we get older minor health issues are bound to pop up. You¡¯re busy, you didn¡¯t have toe see mo Aaron said. ¡®Don¡¯t be polite with us as soon as Mis told us you were hoted, we came right away. Just a few days ago you were in good health, howe you¡¯re suddenly in the hospital Madidn¡¯t exin in detail this morning so her mom and I were worried on the way here ¡°Dad, when I was talking to you guys this moming my husband came home and brought me a lot of snacks, so I forgot to tell you about this.¡± Mia exined, looking wronged She was the one who did wrong, but Andre had a feeling as it his wee was the one who was wronged It¡¯s okay ng is most imponant Andread The Irvin family had been womed about their daughter¡¯s life in her husband¡¯s home, but through the short ha? hour conversation, they were rea**urd. Hansen was protecting Mia, not letting them hit their daughte And the son-inw was holding their daughter, even openly indulging her mistakes Aaron noticed, every time their daughter made a mistake, she would first look for Andre, and she would also hice behind Andre Maybe his wife didn¡¯t realize, but as a man, he could feel It was a sient trust and reliance In the past, every time their daughter made a mistake, she would always hide behind him. He could feel his daughter¡¯s reliance on him, thinking he would always be there to protect her Now, she was hiding behind another man He believe Andre would feel the same way. In that moment, Aamn felt a pang of loss. Because his daughters dependence had shifted from him to another man. Andre, keenly aware of Aatons difort nced at his wife who was clinging to his arm. He knew what he had to say ¡°Dad Mia and will be back to visit you in a few days.¡± ¡°It¡¯s too much trouble going back and forth. You guys take care of Hansen first, then go rest for a few days.¡± Andreughed, ¡°No probrem, I can bring her straight home after work and school. If you miss Mix, just give us a call and we¡¯lle back to keep youpany Cooper isn¡¯t home, on the only k diehis Mia. She¡¯s mamed to me now so you might need some time to adjust. I try in thing her back to visit you as often as possible¡± Aher his son¡¯s reminder, Ha rsen matured that they had essentially sna tched the only child from the Iran family Thinking about Aaron and Madison all alone at home just broke his rean. 2/2 Chapter 90 Chapter 90 17717 ¡°Sunk, no problem, Aaron, if you¡¯re missing Mia take her with you today¡± Hansen has to send this mischievous daughter inw away, or else he might just drop dead from all the frustration. Looking at Hansen on his sick bed, Mia rea**ured, Dad, I¡¯m not leaving you at this critical moment. My N?velDrama.Org owns all content. husband and I will take good care of you¡± ¡°Nah, you just go home¡¯ But i wouldn¡¯t leave, which leh Hansen feeling helpless. Aaron and Madison saw this scene and thought their daughter must have adjusted to life with her husband¡¯s family The couple didn¡¯t stick around. After a quick visit they made the excuse of being busy and left As they were leaving, Madison gently tapped her daughter¡¯s forehead saying in a dating voice, ¡°Cut down on the snacks, you¡¯re married, you¡¯re an adult now! Mia went to see her parents off, acting all cutesy. It¡¯s not me who wants to eat, it¡¯s Andre who buys them Andre nodded. ¡°Mom, Dad, I won¡¯t let Mia suffer if she likes snacks. I buy them for her.¡± The Irvin couple exchanged a nce, not knowing what to say The two left got back in the car and Madison asked in confusion, ¡°Honey, do Mia and Ande really have feelings for each other after getting married?¡± Aaron started the car and replied ¡°Maybe it¡¯s fate that brought them together.¡± Upstairs, Mawas led back to the ward by her husband Seeing his daughter inw return, Hansen was filled with worry Meanwhile, he thought to himself quietly i need to get a hair transnt when i get home! Because neither of them knew that they needed to feed a sick person, when lunchtime came, Hansen was clearly hungry, but he stubbornly wouldn¡¯t admit it. Sitting on the bed, he watched Mia on the couch not far from the food of his bed She really enjoyed eating snacks Mia opened a pack of sour gummy worms, and the sweet smell filled the room Hansen swallowed, it smelled really good Andre noticed his father staring at the candy, so he asked, ¡°Dad, are you hungry?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not hungry!¡± Hansen nced at the Win his hand, telling himself, This is thest one, I finish it before leat Mis also noticed that Hansen wanted snacks. She took a pack of gummies over. ¡°Dad, open your mouth, I¡¯ll feed you a piece¡± Hansen really opened his mouth. I just have one piece.¡± Andre quickly stopped his wife ¡°Mia, dad¡¯s not fully recovered He cant digest it,¡± he said. Mu looked at Hansen¡¯s thin face, then thought of the nurse¡¯s adece rather She withdrew her hand ¡°Dad, when you¡¯re discharged from the hospital, take you to eat. But right now you can¡¯t eat.¡± Hansen¡¯s face darkened he didn¡¯t seem very happy He shot his son resentful look, knowing he couldn¡¯t eat, he still bought all this junk food for My to eat. And the worst part was eating it right under his rose, tempting him. Andre told his wife, Me, you should stop eating too Malooked at the few gummy worms left, she said, ¡®111 go to the hallway to eat, ande back after I¡¯m done, so dad won¡¯t smell She took the remaining gummies out There were only Hansen and Andre in the room Hansen¡¯s stomach involuntanly grumbled His face tumed a bit awkward. Thankfully it was only hur son present And didn¡¯t look at his father, nor did he ask again if his fat was hungry, but went in the food of the bed and opened the gi Mia¡¯s parents had brought earlier There was a bag of soft Lead, he took it out, untapped it, and handed it to his father, Dad you can hold with your left hand and eat.¡± His father¡¯s hand was getting an Musing a fork and spoon with his left hand would be difficult, but holding bread would be much easier To keep his fatherpany And also look a piece of bread and ate The ward was unusually quit, only the breathing of the two could be heard Andre and father had not reconciled for many yank They never had a peaceful moment like this before Hansen suddenly started coughing, Andre immediately got i got ham goma wales, letting him slowly catch his breath Haken enjoyed the brief peace with his son No alping and no heated emotions After the bread was finished, Mia came back 1/2 She had a bottle of fresh juice in her hand She knew Hansen must be hungry, but she also knew that Hansen¡¯s right hand was inconvenient and needed someone to feed him, and neither she nor her Jusband knew how to do it so he insisted he wasn¡¯t hungry. Mia just now made the excuse that she was going to the hallway to eat, but in reality, she didki qo. She went straight downstars instead Aber all eating in the hallway would disturb others. She left the ward and ran to the supermarket outside the hospital to buy a hotse of juce for her father. She opened the juice bottle and handed it to Hansen, ¡°Dad have some juice first. After your IN, we¡¯ll have Andradise us out for lunch. The hospital food really sucks.¡± Hansen looked at the baille in his daughter inw¡¯s hand, his threat suddenly choked up. ¡°Did you just run out in buy juice for me?¡± Mia nodded I also bought a bag of even sure gummies for mysed¡± She said with a smile. Hansen and Andre both knew, the girl was lying She chrously went out specifically to buy juice. Hansen took a se moved, his stomach still had the bread that his son had just shared with him, Hansen¡¯s thoughts crifted back a long time ago, his eyes were moist without him realizing Mia stopped rating snacks, she sat on the couch hugging a pillow boredly watching Hansen¡¯s IV dip Andre saw her sitting ufortably so be stretched out his arm to hold her, letting her Tean on him, Maddi reject him and got closer to her husband, really snuggling into his embrace, Honey, after dad¡¯s IV, can we go to Majestic Dining Enve for lunc Andre chuckled. ¡°You want to eat there?¡± Mia nodded. ¡®But the food there is too expensive. I can¡¯t bear to spend the money, but you¡¯re rich you can pay Andre chatted with his wife, hn¡¯t what¡¯s mine yours too? ¡°Nope, it¡¯s not the same. Even though we¡¯re one, but when you pay still feel like I haven¡¯t spent money. Andre said indulgently ¡°Anight, 111 pay for lunch, and you can order anything you wint He then asked Mia, ¡°Didn¡¯t you have money before you mamed me?¡± From what he knew, even though the vein family wasn¡¯t some big shot n, they were still pretty well known loks in haverbrook The Cedilo Group¡¯s annual profit was De a bilion, so she could easily afford to eat at the Majestic Being Enve if she wanted to Mia responded. Yes, our hate splurging I want my dad in go with me, but he¡¯s always tied up with business partners and friends, dealing with all sorts of social obligations and business regntiations. He just never has time for me My moms not the type to blow money enter. She¡¯ll go with me every now and then, but she¡¯s not always there Cooper¡¯s not home, and going alone would be super awkward so I rarely go¡± Andre thought to Irmell ¡®So that¡¯s how it is My cute wie durant like to spend her own money but enjoys spending others¡± Well, all that a coincidence. He was loaded Chapter 91 Chapter 91 Anche Bluntly told her, ¡°Do whatever you want in the f you dont want to spend your own money just keep the bill and reimburse you when you get home.¡± ¡°Barly?¡± Makhether head from her husband¡¯s chest, her eyes filed with surprise as she sought continution from him Andretet, pulling his adorable wife back into his embrace ¡°There will be a new ount in the ¡°What ount?¡± After Andre finished speaking Mushyly hudher face in for them to flu patient Hansen, who was constantly witnessing his son and daughter intow¡¯s PDA, suddenly regretted his decision. Why did he push for their martage, just They were both reluctant at first, both unwilling to A each other, but in the and it vist nters Insta Now they we puttin sep does show in art of hepletely disregarding his feelings! Hirsen was annoyed Thanks to the food he ate ran m am¡¯s stomach wasnt empty allowing him to wait u Half an hourter. The nurse came to remove ha N fest op to m¨¢t outside. Aber the need was removed, he immediately kicked t ¡°Dad why are you pu Ma was bosted out of the i ?feally feeling a bit morefanable Indeed, he felt much better when he didnt have to see them Ten minutes Hame walked out of his room, cleaning his throat and saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go eat¡± esen had changed clothes and washed his face thel Dad wash his face this moming?¡± Andre swallowed but didn¡¯t say a word Atering the domat where they was going they receive | Majestic Dining Enve. Ma couldnt help but be dazded by i ma. Austalian lobster smokets heers of his mouth curling u Ange drove his father and wife to the Majestic Dining Enve on, baked abalone, cornrolls, soiffe. fore they even entered the restaurant Mahad already listed a in a mal loa ting for them for awhile. ¡°Mi Cedill, wee, wee. What day? Thave a fode at home who missed the taste here so we came to have a try! Andresaid, looking Mia malked over to Anche and held onto hapouting ¡°How could you talk about your wife like that? Saying in public is embara ssing¡± Herin my for you outside! man always samous outside, never showing any kindness to angane. Today the manager of Majestic Dining Enve was lucky enough is witness Mr. Cadi¡¯s are tendemens he Andre¡¯s newlywed wide! Anders wedding was a big event, only the elites of incirty would know the det Today the girl and couldnt tarp but La restaurant manager, naturally wouldn¡¯t be invited the gustomers would Anda tured Ande Monach growled again, ¡°What are you all doing standing at the door? if you¡¯re not going to eat, pa bome¡± my husband muk was on a viewing t Afterling down, they could see the views out clearly was very good at arranging seals, any lime Andie came, he was se idiaged over the rating, enjoying the panoramic wiese. The one chasing him, but Mia who was being led by the hand thought, Holding Hansen saw Meaning ever the ring, he yelled, ¡°Mia, don¡¯) lean out, you might falt ¡°Dad, I¡¯m an adult now¡± The manager heard Hansen¡¯s scolding this was as full of care and for Mis He personally served them, asking Andre. ¡°Mr. Celo, should serve the dishes ording to your usual menu? Andre shook his head picking up the menu and calling his wife who was enjoying the view. ¡°Mu, Ma and back next to Andre. ¡°Honey I want this¡± Ma pointed to a fish dish Andre nodded at the He flipped the page, and Mia contidordning ¡°Dads stomach is not good, let¡¯s order some nutritious and easy to digest dishes. You like light tantes, honey to let¡¯s andersom lighter dishes. Thave a big appetite, let¡¯s order more mea Make ordering while taking Andie asked with a smile. How do you know 1 The Lighter Fastest Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. I¡¯m your wie hould know these things the leaned against her husband¡¯s arm and whispered back. Ma was right. He lived lighter favors, not a fan of oily and sp icy fastes Hedidit pect when his family didn¡¯t even know his preferences, his newlywed wile nati His mood was getting better and better They ordered six dishes and a soup. And stopped from ordering m Torettia Fl Ande Wele back next time And said, ¡®Whenever you want it to be but not today¡± ¡°Okay¡± She only looked at the manager and exined, ¡°We both can handle s picy food Ander had nations has wit ittle action earlier. His arm around Mas waist, he asked her, ¡°You havent dined with your father on this floor before, have you Mashook her head. ¡®my dad would never being me here. Whenever our family came in eut, or would just dine in lobby 2/2 Chapter 92 Chapter 92 Seeing Andre lock confited, Mia exined, ¡°What the men, nine tations cake ce asta, while family held in the main hall. Everyone mating andughing together, it gives off anse of happy vibe youkiem?¡± And chucklightly ¡°Not a bodies maybe next time well in having deve in the main hell¡± Truth be told, he never actually died in the first forhabe Margretted talking so much But honestly an kang an There¡¯s good food, where they sit doesn¡¯t really matja: Soon, word spread that he had shown Majestic Dry Enve supposedly for a family meal in less than mines, people started sho into him by chance, and excitedly genried Anda. Spolling the woman beside Anche, they asked. ¡®Is this your wife?¡± started showing up pending to run Andre looked at the gi nestled by his side and introduced, ¡°This is my mile, Ma Ma greeted them with a natural chain and gate that mpressed Hansen. This girl got us at least shen noi nasip intimidated. He called the first time he met Ms. Despite her purposely trying to look unattractive, he spist and chaisma were outstanding Hacks of his call, nodding rised with both the one of hand dughter is lesser When the acquaintances eft, Mia reverted back to her chod ke tell Hory I bet he came on purpose dori sa thank ¡°¡°Uh-huh¡± Anche gently ranitia fingers through Mun hair as if he were petting a cut Soother load arrived and Ma¡¯s eyes it up Hansen Chucked, ¡®Dorset good the sight of the delicious food. Hen, dig this stufs pray and ¡°Of course it¡¯s tasty T¡¯s expensive for a reason¡± he took a stamp and popped into her mouth, me tender meat delighting her taste buds. Before she even swallowed, she added a crispy rol. Wow, so good, it¡¯s really good, hares¡± Andre couler¡¯i hep butugh and stand digging in as wel Little did now, a par of eyes had been watching them on the Tourbelow Barbata held her phone, lickingua The cheerful Shedaledakan, ¡°Tapot her.¡± Half an hourter juer as the family of three was having a pleasant coversation, they were abruptly interupted. ¡°Angle¡± rice carries a note of sorrow Then, Mia now he fragile woman. She had inedin strung noodde between Ma and Naomist time, and Maheed the score yet. But now here she wasing to Marcell Mauldean her fork, ¡°Mt Juan, why are you calling my husband?¡±. I need to talk in Andsed them in front of Andreading this would gatherings themes of the tolly an your ordinary men Mir¡¯s husband only had eyes forte wit ¡°My husbandiani maested in you, if you have something to say may itim Jillian turned her gaze to the indiflrent Hansen, he seemed to not care about Mia¡¯s rudeness toward Jian And Ande was busy saving Mafood, clears not indi Shened again, Ance, I reed to speak with you. Could put Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. step wurde for a moment?¡± Suddenly ita ellied for much in pain, ¡°Ahr ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ?Andre asked his wife with concern. Hangen also loved waited, at ha ughter iw was she having stomachum too? Mu shot n a nce before fuming to her husband. Think it¡¯s the baby kicking¡± Hansen spat out his water ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Daz¡± Me asked mnocently Hanum wized ser all, ¡°is face red from coughing Ma shot than a Surous look. ¡®Ms. Jian, see what you¡¯ve done? You made my father feel sick ¡± Hansen thought, this has nothing to do with ma Jillian face turned pole. She managed to say to Mia. Thave important matters to discuss with Anche in private. Ma olen her eyes without a care, then grabbed Andre¡¯s wral, put her other hand on her atomach and whined, ¡°Honey, don¡¯t be me and our balto go have a private chal with another woman, okay? Caught off guard. Andie didn¡¯t know what is A baby? She dared to say that! The baby¡¯s here. The ce you were hiding your mach Oh Madden ?l award of all about her mistake. She Urked, then quickly moved her hand to her lower abdomen Jiria face tumedatute as she red at Ma with venommat eyes Mamed Sulphantly if you have something to say, say it here and pava roching is way ¡°Ma, do you really want me to pay li here?¡± Mia nodded. ¡°You never tell the buth Wie have to be careful with you always¡±. Jillian took a dag bath Dentale the apk, he wasbeled as a convegviin. She nced at a stomach pain, her filled with mackery. ¡°Perhapa p The one who¡¯s not leding the Buch¡± ¡°Why daril you as my hubo may belem? Do they want to what you have to say? I wanted to make i clear to Julian that mean if sha wana to 10, her family would choose to believe har l es over Jilians supposed tratta ¡®Maihaupti cellied the score will you for hitting kamisi lima ¡± Ajoonas Jliar frished speaking. Ma stood ungaly She walked past her husband, up to Jhias and ppedliner across the face. monally socket andman waspletely taken abacu Nobody expected Mia to take such action. The psed loudly, drawing the monof their dia. Jan fall a burning sensation och stopped forward, ready to fight back. She was wanted to 12:06 -push Ma off the Third flipar Arshe jumped right up, stepping in to stop Jillian from hitting his wife. He put a little muscle into it and shoves Jinsiraight into the folding screen. Junimmediately yed the victimcard, pointing Ma and ning ¡°Shee a witch, Andre, he fled by her leuks cheaks herpas glowing Macame out from bed her husband and once again faces Jan Without saying a word, she pped her again. Having smacked both ch red, showing just how hard she¡¯d hit her T you had brought up my allow that. The Fist shap was on her behalt was for myset. No other reason, I just ould er tried 15 save your dignity and not make a spectacle of you in poble. But you do to mention my sister-inw, I want You delete y ted to mess up my rtionship with her, Eling my home with misunderstanding and strile. The second p led to smack you. Your shameless eyes are always on my husband cant stand the sight of you, so why can¡¯t I p you a few My husband once told me, as his wife, I have every right to be unreasonable. 2/2 Chapter 93 Chapter 93 The man was calm when he said, even though his wife was acling impu¡¯viarly Instead, he had this module smile on his face the whole time. ¡°Ma you¡¯ve taken everything that was supposed to be mine? ?r seat cut apotefully. Hadits rally spoke up. ¡°You¡¯re just after what¡¯s not yours. We. Proto family, mould wether have Andre stay a bachelor his whole life that let u be a part of us ¡°Why? Why?¡± Jillian statedto cry. She had been by Anden side for Hiren pars, wasn¡¯t that enough to be epted by the Cedile family?¡± background can marry into the Cedi family? I¡¯ve been with Arde for Thirmr years, and Feesten done anything wrong, why can¡¯t [? Hansen snorted. Your personaty links¡± kaami, with her Ma had just smacked someone and was feeling prefly good about it. She was thinking in her head ¡°what¡¯s the deal with my sister-inw¡¯s background? on¡¯t Masmi the darling daughter of the Mastin family? Why is Jusking down at her and why did Hansen say Fm dilleteri Hum Noomi this moming? We¡¯re both from richmises, so why did he say we¡¯ Thest me Andre andessed Jilun he didn¡¯t do it in front athiswi This sime, he spoke up again Thew¡¯s nothing between us. It¡¯s just a delusion you ve been holding onto. The theen years you mentioned mean nothing more metun und knowing you for fifteen yours. Whilever sebt we owed your family, the Gerils family has already pad it off. If you are trying to stir up trouble and disrupt my famly I want go easy on you. And tell your father this, the Gedilo family and the Marstal family are not old After seeing the clear disdain from Ande and Harsm, Jjran let all her cheeky swollen from the p Downstairs, Barbara was shocked when she saw her cousin When happened to you? Vaping her tears aluns eyes were led with hatred ¡°Ma this it over between Upstairs, Mia sat cown, feeling pretty good Shecould help I get curious. ¡°Honey, what did you guys meat by owing her family a favor? What¡¯s the deal with Naomis background? Why did Jillian sound so condescending when she mentioned Nixom? And how did the know we were here? Honey, are you sure theres nothing between you Hansen and Andre insket at each other across the table, neither anewering hat questions. ¡°Me and her? Andre chuckler, smoothing his wife¡¯s hair Trouve never had drie ure, watched a movie, or pune shopping fupeller? Hansen?a a nos him ¡°He¡¯s too busy with Cadilin Inc to do any of that Madden, make ser er tather had always sonically working 24/7. Andre¡¯s hand m o v e d tahsiles belly. ¡®Has many months along is our baby? Ma bit her ip, koking down at his hand on her stomach She Isard up at him and goed, ¡°Hehe, it¡¯s my food baby=¡± Andre said, 2nd -e¡¯s already kicking you ? ¡°Mim, my intestines are moving isn¡¯t that like him kicking me? Andreide know how to respond to his wife ¡°Mu are you always this hot-tempered?¡± Hansen remembered how his daughter inw just pped someone without saying a word Heid seen a int, but Man sudden action really caught him off guard. Then he thought about how they were sill getting insed to Ineng ingether, and how every meal felt like a Pouting Mideast it. I¡¯m really well-behaved, I never lose my tempo, and I¡¯m really cute. Leo always protects me at school so I dont get bulled¡± Hansen looked at his petite and cute daughter. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m overthinking things ¡± thinking she could¡¯s possibly be a hot headed person ¡°You definitely am Iow can some sweet as me have a tad lemper? Ma quackle¡¯s water **. Andre stayed quiet remembering how his wife seemed to have a habit of hitting people Bu bent expuse ner As long as she was cute in his army that was enough They chatted while eating mostly between Mia and Hansen, with Andeng on the side. ¡°Why do you dislike Julian and prefer me?¡± Hansenughed and touched his daughter inw¡¯s face. ¡°Youre so full of yourself, why would like you? Ma said, ¡°If you dont like me, why did you let me be your daughter inw? Wie hadn¡¯t even met before¡¯ Hansen made something upon the spot. ¡°You¡¯re better at sing people off- L Andreuged His father fat the nail an the heath Miu got angry and mowed all the meat in front of Hansen in her side. ¡°Im not satisfied with your answer, so i¡¯m not letting you eat meat! Hey My son pad for this¡± ¡°My husband pad for th ¡°Hes.myson Karson pointed al Andre and and to Ma Ma smuggled up to Arake and said to liernan, ¡°This is my husband¡¯ Both of them looked at Arde, one saying ¡®im your f¡¯ and the aller rennding ¡°Honey, dont forget. When you¡¯re old and need someone to push your wheelchair til ba And thought to himself, ¡°From a long term perspective, is better to listen to my wife Henged the future, both of them with white hair, Him ating in a wheelchair, her pushing from behind, grewag old to pether it cdrit seem too bad. Ande¡¯miled indulgently Tm with Mia! ¡°gari bug¡± Hansen was so angry he could speak. 717 12:06 M He was uptet, but i was happy Mia pouted at her husband¡¯s face didn¡¯t kiss him, but made a kissing gesture And couldn¡¯t help but lough, he couldnt even keep A lunchtime, the docter had specifically amed them not to overest 5 when they all had their stopped Hansen from eating any more They sat amund for a bit, then the three of them got up and leli. Hwan almost ter clock now During Hangera honatal stay, his son ?ndia nned to give him a full body check up. When ment to fetch the farms. the doctor curiously asked. ¡°What did Pansen eat for lunch?¡± Andre told the doctor about their lunch After hearing the doctor chuckled ¡°Looks like you¡¯ve really done your homework¡± ¡°What do you mean?¡± The ductor went on. Everything you picked in beneficial to the patient¡¯s heal Suddenly, And remembered something and asked, ¡°Can my father drink jucat they arrived at the hospital, the doctor had all the test forms ready when Andre The doctor replied. ¡°Bure, juice cantelpreplenish fulch and vitamins, but be careful not to give tin ml¡± Andre nodded. What he just remembered was that his wife radh¡¯s brought back milk at noon, but juice instead Locks like his wife had been out for so long because she must¡¯ve been teaching dy guidelines for patients with acude gastroententia. When Anche retumed to the hospital room, he found Mia Pappily chatting way with his dad. With Mio r., Ha**eris world was far from lonely. She always seemed to have a fun topic up her slee ¡°You sure your Taking m e the Haren asked Min with hopeful eyes. Medded, ¡°Whoalutely Les and I will take you. We hang out there all the time? Handed enthusiastically repeating ¡°wesome! ¡°Oh, you¡¯re back. What did the doctor say, which tests should we start with? Mis asked her husband as he walked in Andre with the medical report in hand replied, ¡°One step at a time.¡± Mia helped Hansen get out of bed and apanied him with Andre for the tests. Right around roon, Ander¡¯s phone medio blow up. He lock four calls about thepany¡¯s next. ¡°Let¡¯s put that aside for now. I handle when i get back! in instructed calmly After hanging up. Ma sad. If you¡¯re swamped you thoughead to the office first canuoreth share at the hospital¡± Dont worry about 1, Andre was hesitant to leave his wife alone the tal ¡°Don¡¯t worry Andre,¡± Mia rea**ured Dad was arguing with er ind now and he didn¡¯t even break a sweet. He¡¯s dearly fine Hansen felt that his daughter-inw¡¯s work we a bit off, but he was indeed freon, Andre. Mia will keep mepany Juste pick her up tonight¡± Maas nodded in agreement Ignoring their advice. Anche put his phone away and continued to apany his father for the tests. As Hansen was made getting scanned, Ma and Andre sat outside on the chairs The scorching midday sun shone in though the windows, iluminating the hallway. The chairs were fade from the sunlight, Ma sat there, libing her head, casing homes, basking in the warm aunlight. She let attired The remaining the Andes shoulder, he turned his head innk at his drowsy wife and askeri gerily Mia cracked open her and let out a big yown. ¡°Abb¡± Andre wrapped his arm around Mia¡¯s shoulder, letting her rest in his arms, ¡®Lean on me and take a nap, the best is going to take half an hour¡± Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Marested her ¡°ead on Andre¡¯s chest, closing her eyes in rest Ande¡¯s phone was quiet, but he kept recereng messages fich one arm wrapped amund his wife and the other dealing with work cast a golden glow on the two The hallway was quiet, perhaps due to the afternoon Lt. Marought she wouldnt be half hour wait under the setting sun in fall asleep, but in her husband¡¯s arms, she slept deeply and even had 7 he dream reflected In her chum she and Andre were ning trees. She didn¡¯t know what kind of trees they were, but in her dream, she was incredibly happy. The joy in reality as she let out a softugh Andre locked at the smile on his wife¡¯s fare and askedindu genly What did you hear about? ¡°Honey¡± she called out softly And¡¯s grew wider. ¡°Were you dreaming about mat Mudderswerhim, the continued to immerse hersell in the cream Andre lost interest in work, he just wanted to join his wife in her dream to see what erson he was in her dreams. He put down his phone. Hted his head slightly to appreciate his wife¡¯s features. ane peach were like pantings, herstes curly her skin celicate Herlips were jury like Andre¡¯s the bobber, but her Ips were even water than peaches. He twirled a stand of her hat holding it under his nose, smelling the faint fragrante Andrealized he inved everything about his wife. Her sceni, er sprach, her temper even the way she ate. He even liked her when she was angry. Andru helda mile¡¯s saf She understood him, knew him, and always cared about his family. He never paid much attention in his dad¡¯s dietary need, but she had secretly looked them up. Al lunch, she didn¡¯t order what she wanted, she only ordered what was suitable for Haroon and him Her unintentional actions warned his heart. She didnt like to show off, if he hade fundou by chance, he would¡¯ve thought that she ordered her favorite food for lunch. Ma was deep in sleep and didn¡¯t hear Andre¡¯s call. Andre bent down slightly kissing her on the top of her hand gerdly. When Hansen caine put Mia slowly woke up. She treated the hospital hallway ikke har den home, sitting up liom her husband¡¯s arma, stretching ¡®Heel so rakeshed her a rap¡¯ And so holding his wifes hand as they left. Two hour say they returned both hapital room. Araku went straight to the doctor to check on hi dheth, while Mie sold Hansen, ¡°My husband is actually a good son This was the first time Transen was sick, and Andre was by his de ¡°Yeah, Andre is a good kid¡± ¡°Ahough And looks cold and althoutside, he always cares about his family¡± Han nodded, Ma¡¯s words wedir Ajde all again for a short while, heart lika u gantia stream. He inskedal Mas luce. The soumetsa undkonstand why that man had chosn Ma arned, ha held a water bot in his handi Hawafund over is the teil to pour water for his father, ¡°The tocar quejjests you drink. e water. You need to continue the infusios tomanow and you con be discharged the day after After poti jo home, pay attention ko your diet. You¡¯re okl, your body is dentom Ma and Less. They¡¯re young and healthy, they can eat and drink a lot. But you know your skimrod and iriautines, al puna not canal, the pru who sullera in The and in illyu.. Although his words were reproachful, Andre¡¯s concern was palpable 12:05 In the evening. Naomi and Bruce came in visit Seeing the two of them Hansen was over the moonlike he had just seen his ownkin. He said ¡°Naomi, you and Bruce should stick around with me tonight/Let these t They¡¯re not here to take care of me I¡¯m just lucky to have survived the day under the so-called ¡®care¡± Martorted, ¡®Dad, don¡¯t talk like that. You make a sound like we have been korturing you.¡± ¡°I wish you guys were tortuning me, at least you wouldn¡¯t treat me like a g uinea pig them? Naomi asked, ¡°Mia, what¡¯s going an Chapter 94 Chapter 94 Miscked a small smile, a tad embossed as the exined the morning¡¯s Heaning this. Hansen added. ¡°She even wanted to give me another shot..! After Hansen¡¯s excited exnation, Naomi couldn¡¯t believes other ¡°we have had enough rest today. We¡¯ll stay here tonight, you and Andre should go home and rest ¡°Don¡¯t try to send us away Mia protested ¡°Andre and I have decided to stay at the hospital with dad We already agreed The memory of the bloodshot eyes in Naomi¡¯s earlier made Mia¡¯s heart ache. Last night was the toughest. Their dad was on only and needed coat care. He brother and his family stayed with him at the hospital Under no circumstances could They stay another night Hansen gently waved them off. Ma know you¡¯re a good girl. But you and Andre should go home and get some rest. f¡¯s the thought that counts, you don¡¯t need to stay Mia stood her ground. That¡¯s not happening! I want you to really feel the love that my husband and have for you Besides, you have two sons. You can let Bruce and Naomi shoulder rything. People who know you understand the father daughter rtionship between you and my Naomi. Those who don¡¯t might think you¡¯re ying favores, getting sick and letting only Bruce¡¯s family take responsibility. Where does that leave the dignity of Andre and me? I¡¯m your daughter inw, toned a good reputation too I want to have a gandrtionship with you? At Miss words, everyone in the room burst outughing Her but honesty was refreshing and it made Bruce feel good knowing his younger brother was willing to share the burden of their father¡¯s less. Naomi felt a warm glow inside. Mas worth, about Hansen textingher like a daughter, had brought them closer. Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Andmed His wife had voiced his thoughts Hansen was the happiest of a Her words didn¡¯t damage the rtionship between Mia and Naomi, there was no sibling resemment, and it earned him a reputation for treating his elder daughter inw like a daughter, giving him great dignity If her words were still refused, it would be unbelievable. Hansen said sarcastically ¡°Andris too bus Mia responded for her husband, when ites to caring for his father he¡¯s not busy. What¡¯s more important than family? ¡°Aight, alright, Leant win against you Stay if you want to stay. Bruce and Naom were truly exhausted M was triumphant. She winked at her husband Andreughed helplessly, a mature of amusement and ideep affection in his smile His is actions were bing more and more satisfying Bruce and Naomi sat there for a while. Harden steered the coneration towards his younger daughter in words. Today even uitian got a taste of it! Naomi perked up immediately She asked Ma. How did you handle 1 pped her twice,¡± she said nonchntly ¡°Are you hurt?¡± Naomi asked Mia shook her head. ¡°Andre and dad were with me, I was fine. She didn¡¯t dare to fight back. Naomi still felt her daughter inw was a bit hattempted ¡°Naomi, I¡¯m actually very centh ¡°Don¡¯t be skeptical My husband always says I¡¯m his little l Andre teased his wife. A wild cats scratch hurts the most ¡°Honey¡± started to whine Andre saddict criticize you in that of others.¡± Mia poked her husband¡¯s shoulder, ¡°you are such a bully. The hospital room was filed withughter It was gettingte Noone and Bruce let the hospital in the end, only three people were left in the room. Malooked at Hard inmenhat lost eyes and licked her lips lightly ¡°Dad, don¡¯t keep looking Looking won¡¯t ke Naomieback¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t say I wanted her toe back it was his first time spending so much time with his second son, and he felt a bit uforta Mia was observant and noticed date subtle rtionship between her husband and his father. She swallowed, her eyes darting around and a strange idea formed in her mind ¡°Wh The snacks she bought on the hospital bed then pulled two chairs to the ¡°Where are you going? Before Andre could finish his question, his wife had dy runoul We Andreaskedsedously Mis stuck out for tongue, trying to be cute. Tor you¡± She also bought Andra waurit angry anymont ¡°Paying cards, of course. The night is long, weed sometiment As she spoke, she put ti sides of the bed for herself and her husband to sit. ¡°Hineye over here¡± Andre cleared his throat and asked his wife. ¡®Have you ever been to ¡°The legal ones or the underground ones? The fring or forward fighting? Mia immediately replied. And?k,raised an eyebrow, ¡°Have you been to those cut¡± ?Cr ap, the spiled the beans. Chapter 95 Chapter 95 Ms cracked a smal smile and emba**ed as the ned the morning¡¯s minu y husband and Hotally forgot¡± Hearing this. Hansen added, ¡°She even wanted to give me another shal After Hamer¡¯s excited exnation, Naomi could believe it either ¡°We have had enough rent today. Vir stay here innight, you and Andre should go home and rest¡± Dory in send us away Mia protested. ¡°Andre and I have decided to stay at the hospital with dad Vie abeady agreed The memory of the bloodshot eyes in Naomi Last night was the toughest. The dad was on an IV and needed constant care. Her brother and his family stayed with him at the hospital. Under en crcumstances could They stay another night. Hansen urgently word them off. ¡°Mix know you¡¯re a good pl But you and Andre should go home and on some rest. Es the thought that counts you dont need to stay Mood her ground. That¡¯s not happening! I want you to really feel the love that my husband and I have for you Besides you have two sons. You cant fruce and Naomi shoulder everything People who know you understand the father daughter rtionship between you and my Naomi Those who don¡¯t might think you¡¯re ying favorites, gelling sick and letting only Bruce¡¯s family take respons hilty Where down that leave the dignity of Anche and mam your daughter inw, boosted a good reputation 100. I want to have a good rtionship with you Al Mare words, purons in the room burst outughing. Her blunt honesty was relresting and it made race feel good knowing hit younger brother was willing to share the burden of their fathers ilmeIL Naomi felt a warm glow inside. Mas¡¯s words, about Hansen treating her like a daughter, had brought them close Andre smiled His wile had voiced his thoughts. Hansen was the happiest of all Her word didn¡¯t damage the rtionship between Ma and Nap, there was no sibling resentment, and it evenema reputation for treating his elder daughter inw The daughter preng him great danity her words were 15l refused a would be unbelinable Hansen said sarcastically, Andre is too busy¡± Ma responded for her husband, when Znight alright. Tcard win against you Stay if you want in May Bruce and Naum were truly exhaustedst night¡± Mia was Triumphant. She wirked at her husband Andreughed helplessly, a mixture of amusement and deep affection in his smile His wife¡¯s actions were bing more and more saying Bruce and Nam sat there for a whie Hansen steered theentation towards his younger daughter in few words Today even lian got a taste of t Kampked up immediately. She asked Mix How did you handle her pped her twice, she said nonchntly ¡°Are you hum?¡± Naomi asked. Mashook her heat. ¡°Andre and dad were with me, I was fine. 5¨Ca d dare to fight back¡± Naomi stilet her caughter¨Cinw was a hit hot¨Ctempered ¡°Naomi Im actually very gentie ¡°Don¡¯t be skeptical. My hushand always says I¡¯m his little kitty Andre Seased his wife, 3 wild rails Monach ¡°Honey¡± Ma staned in white Andre said. ¡°I didn¡¯t onficize you in front of others.¡± Ma poked her husbands shouldet, you are such a bully¡±¡° The hospital room was filed withughter it was gettingte Noume and Bruce left the hospital in the end only three people were lightly ¡°Das dontwerp looking Looking won¡¯t make Naomie back in the room. Ma looked at Hansen¡¯s somewhatst eyes and licked her p dont say i wanted her toe back.¡± It was his fist time spending to much time with his second son, and he felt a bouncerefortable Ma was observant and noticed the subtle rtionship between her husband and his father. She swallowed her eyes darting around and a strange idea formed in her mind, ¡°¡®¡°Dustmata le!¡® Before Andre could finish his question, wife had already run out. Whi the came back, Mu had a deck of carch in her hand, some snacks, and ¡°Who¡¯s the beer lock Andreasked sously Mu Much suffer tongue, trying to be cute, ¡°For you¡± She also bought two cana far karveli Andre washitaray argmiste ¡°ying cards, of course. The night is long, we need some entertainment ¡°As she spoke, sl? put the ara ka she bought on the hospital bed then pulul tau chain is the des of the best for hersell Honeye over here¡± Andre cleared has throat and asked his wife, ¡®Hast you ever lwan to a casino? ¡°The legal one of the underground ones? The ones for sing or for sword fighting? Ma immediately replied Andrased an eyebrow. ¡°Have you been to those ?na?¡± Crap, che apled the beans 15.07 cinne?aleybt herlis. ¡°Uh, I on TV I¡¯ve never been Agawas full of curiosity. Haan you ever bees to a carl game casino?! Mashock head honesty. My dad didnt let me go! ¡°mm, your cad did the right things wil was silling, how could she ich ce He back out a deck of cards and asked his father, ¡°Bridge do you know how to y? Seeing the cards, Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. hersens sansted and the wind with fighting spirt. ¡°Df course, I was unbeatable when I was young¡± He safed up his sleeves, ready to y with all his might whats the prime for winning or losing Hansen asked Ma thought for a moment, they couldn¡¯t bet money, it would hurt is much if the list. ¡°bad how about we y a sticker game? The winner can but stickers on the lover¡¯s face ¡°Mauggeved Harden thought was not exciting enough and looked disulisted Were used to gambling with money Your way into bong¡± Mis defended her idea, ¡°Were all family, whether the many loud or wan, i stays in the family Bening money ing ¡°Just say you¡¯re broke. Harun ruthlessly exposed his daughter inw¡¯s be M made a face at Hansen, ¡°Just you want, did Once my husband rets ca special ount for me the CDs wit, you¡¯ll see if I dare to spend money on you) Andre¡¯s stuffing cards, soaking in the chechar around him, feeling a sense of came known belon. Maybe that¡¯s what life should be pee he thought. ?st chil days. Shooting the breeze, tafing about the everyday th?? with close families It¡¯s a midoummet in ghr, lights on in the room, they were ying games to band. Less screen time, mom lun ume keeping each otherpany Chapter 96 Chapter 96 Honey, you''re really good at shuffling cards, do you y poker a lot?¡¯ Mia admired Andre''s card shuffling skills. Hansen snorted proudly, "Who would dare to let him shuffle the cards when he''s out ying? Mia watched her husband''s hands closely. Wanting to show off more for his wife, Andre shuffled the already shuffled deck again. "Honey, can you teach me? It''s so cool when you shuffle the cards." Cool? How?" Andre asked. It''s just really cool¡¯ Mia looked at her husband''s face, Will you teach me?" Andre gestured for his wife toe over, Come, I''ll teach you." Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Wait! Are you here to keep mepany or to flirt?" Hansenined. He wasn''t worried about the newlyweds¡¯ affection for each other, but he had more important things to do. "Aren''t you here to y cards with me? If you want to learn to shuffle, do it at home, stop bothering me!" Mia felt guilty and stuck out her tongue, quickly apologizing, "Dad, sorry, we were wrong." Hmph!" Hansen was annoyed and wanted to check his blood pressure again. Andre ced the cards on the bed, "Dad, you go first." Hansen nced at the cards and decided to stop being angry and y. Half an hourter, Mia had three stickers on her face, Hansen had two, and Andre was as cool as ever. He held the cards calmly, looking as if he had everything under control. He never lost a round with that attitude Hansen grumbled in frustration, "I didn''t see that I had a Joker left in my hand Mia said, I should have used the Joker first, to block Andre''s move." The two losers were discussing the previous round, full of regrets. Andre, however, didn''t dwell on the past. He was nning his strategy for the next round, aiming to take control once again Mia yed poorly, and Hansen, who used to be unbeatable, had his good hand ruined by his son. Mia lost even though she had the Joker cards. Another round, another loss. Honey!¡± Mia''s eyes were burning with anger. Seeing his wife angry, Andre smiled faintly. He took a sticker, moistened it with water, and stuck it on his wife''s face. Do you realize what you did wrong?" Andre asked. He intentionally won to make his wife regret not being on his side. Did I do something wrong? Mia blinked. What did she do wrong? After a moment''s thought... Mia suddenly remembered what she had said! Hansen was worried that he wouldn''t win, so he gave up. Mia saw this and said, "I''ll team up with you. I''ve been waiting for you to lead me to victory. I give up too" She used her cards to y against Andre. So he was upset because she didn''t side with him? Fram the look of surprise on her face, Andre gently tapped her head, You didn''t assess the situation correctly, couldn''t recognize the real power yer, and couldn''t even take advantage of an easy win. Mia stuck out her tongue. She was sitting and Andre was standing up, so her face was right at his belly She acted coy, wrapping her arms around his waist and resting her face against his belly, "Honey, I was wrong, Next time, you lead, Hansen is not good at ying cards. I... Mia! You''re using me.¡¯ Hansen was also about to get a sticker stuck on him. His son showed no mercy towards him. Mia apologized and Andre reluctantly agreed, but the smile on his face betrayed his pleasure. "Next time, I''ll lead." Yay, honey, you''re the best. Go put a sticker on Hansen''s face, make him a white-bearded old man. Mia let go of Andre and urged him to put the sticker on Hansen''s face. Just then, a nurse came in. The nurse was a bit taken aback by the scene in the room, "Mr. Cedillo, I''m here ta check Hansen''s blood pressure." Upon hearing the reason, Mia got up and moved aside, helping Hansen to lie down, "You can check now." The nurse came forward and saw the stickers on Hansen''s face and the four stickers on the girl''s face, making it look like a white beard. She was wearing a mask and couldnt help butugh, This family was really entertaining. In a short while, the blood pressure was measured. The nurse looked at the numbers and said, "Why is it higher than it was this afternoon?" Hansen pointed angrily at his son and daughter-inw, "I''m being annoyed by these two." The nurse looked at Andre and Mia standing side by side, "Mr. and Mrs. Cedillo, during the patient''s recovery period, it''s best to keep the patient''s mood stable. It helps with stabilizing the condition." Andre nodded. After the nurse left, Mia looked at her grumpy father-inw and then at her husband, "Honey, I think it''s better for me to team up with dad. That way, I have a chance of winning Mr. Cedillo understood what his cute wife meant. Was she anticipating that he would purposely lose to make his father feel better? That''s exactly what Mia was thinking. Although her husband was introverted, his care for his father was shown through actions, not sweet words. It was clear from what the nurse said earlier, Andre would definitely put ona performance¡¯, intentionally losing the game to make his father win and feel better. Sure enough, the situation seemed to reverse in the next three rounds, with Hansen winning a lot Mia had a chip in her mouth, looking at her cards and then at Hansens, "Four Jokers, anyone want to challenge? Hansen yed a straight of seven cards, "Any takers? Andre also yed a straight. Mia was eating chips, she picked up another one and continued to chew, Seeing Hansen''s dwindling pile of cards, she simply gave up the easy win. Hansen had only two cards left, surely they were a pair of twos. Andre shook his head, he also folded and prepared to lose. Hansen pped joyfully, He felt exhrated winning round after round. Andre threw the cards onto the bedsheet, waiting for his father and wife to put stickers on his face. Hansen showed no mercy to his own son. "I''ll stick one under your nose, so it''ll flutter when you breathe. Mia looked at her husband''s handsome face, admiring every feature. Where should she put the sticker? Suddenly, Mia''s gaze met her husband''s gentle eyes. Mia''s heart raced. Her hubby''s eyes were like mas, about to suck her into his gentle whirlpool. Chapter 97 Chapter 97 Mia was totally smitten,pletely taken in by the charm of Andre. Hey, Mia, what are you daydreaming about? Hurry up and stick it, let''s y a couple more rounds after.¡¯ Hansen was still game-crazy, eagerly urging his little daughter-inw, who was bewitched by his son. Andre was staring back, which made it harder for her to escape his grip. Seen enough?" Andre''s voice was warm and there was a faint smile on his face, Mia shivered, thinking to herself, Oh my god, I had been totally captivated by my husband, how embarrassing! In the end, she lightly touched her husband''s face and blushing, returned to her ce to munch on some chips and y poker. After a few rounds, Mia realized she hadn''t won a single game, and Andre kept losing too. Up till now, the only person winning at poker was Hansen. Munching on her chips, Mia suddenly felt gloomy, was she going to lose again? Dad, can you let me win once, so I can actually do something useful.¡± Mia suggested. Hansen''s fatherly love instantly kicked in, ¡®Alright, alright, I''ll let you have a round, give you a chance" Mia locked at her cards and reluctantly said, "I don''t have any suitable cards to y. Hansen expressed his discontent, If your cards are that bad, then don''t y, I''m going to win again¡± Hansenid out all his sequential cards, "Another win. Mia hugged her head in frustration. Something was definitely fishy! It couldn''t be that Hansen''s cards were always good. She turned her gaze to her husband who was dealing the cards, her eyes filled with suspicion. Could it be that her husband was purposely losing? He was the one dealing the cards every time, only he had the opportunity to cheat Mia watched her husband''s hands dealing the cards, observing carefully. But she couldn''t tell anything was amiss. Honey, let me deal the cards." Mia didn''t trust him, she reached out her hand. Andre raised an eyebrow, looking at his clever and cute wife. Had she seen through his ploy? Mr. Cedillo stretched out his long arm and handed the cards to his wife. "Do you know how? Even if I don''t, I won''t let you cheat anymore She pouted Andre opened her bag of snacks, took out a canned beer and took a sip Even though it had been sitting out for a while, it was still icy cold and refreshing. Mia was still munching on snacks, she cooed at her husband, Honey, can I have a sip?¡± Andre didn''t respond. Mia continued to coo, "Honey, just one sip, a small one, I''m thirsty." Andre handed her the beer, "Drink a little. Mia held the beer can with both hands, she directly put her mouth to it and started gulping it down, Just as Mr. Cedillo was delighted about indirectly kissing his wife, she said: Oops, honey, I identally finished the beer. This little girl who had drunk half a can of beer was still looking guilty and cooing to Andre that she had finished the beer! Andre realized that she did it on purpose! Looking at his wife''s innocent face, he felt both annoyed and amused. He couldn''t bear to scold her, he could only silently endure. Later, Mia kept eating snacks, Andre drank beer. Hansen always won the card games. The nurse came to check Hansen''s blood pressure again and found it was still high. Mia asked in surprise, "I let him win every round, but why is his blood pressure still high?" The nurse exined, "Too much excitement can also cause a patient''s blood pressure to rise." The couple were speechless. Losing was bad, but winning was also a problem. The snacks were finished, the beer was finished, Mia gave up on the game. Hansen still wanted to continue ying, but neither of his children wanted to y with him. Plus it was alreadyte, so they suggested Hansen should rest early. Andre sat on the sofa looking at the documents sent by his assistant on his phone, while Miay on the sofa with her head on her husband''sp, engrossed in her phone. An hourter, when Mia put down her phone and was about to sleep, she suddenly cried out in pain, "Honey, my stomach hurts." Andre was still busy, he thought his cute wife was just being coy. "Did the baby kick you?" Mia shook her head, blushing. She stood up from the sofa and suddenly felt a warm flow from her private parts... Oh no, her period had started! She didn''t have any tampons with her. Mia got up and went to the bathroom, when she came out, instead of sitting back down on the sofa, she went to the nurse''s station outside. Awhileter, she came back to the ward with a tampon in her hand. Seeing that, Andre immediately understood everything. Three minutester, Mia came out,y back on the sofa, curled up. Looking at her furrowed brow and pale face, Andre was worried, was she so weak because of blood loss? "Mia?" Mia waved her hand: "Honey, don''t bother me, I''m feeling really bad¡± Mr. Cedillo asked, "Are you having cramps?" Mia nodded, she covered her stomach with both hands, her voice weak, ¡°It hurts so much I can hardly breathe properly.¡¯ She was clearly worse off than before. Seeing her in such pain, Andre touched her forehead and found a thinyer of sweat. Mia often ate indiscriminately, stuffing herself with all kinds of snacks, which irritated her stomach. Coupled with it being her period, she felt a wave of Menstrual cramps and was in agony. Mia took a deep breath, her brows furrowed, she was in so much pain she was about to cry. At this moment, sheined pitifully, ¡°I''m never eating so many snacks at once again.¡¯ Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Seeing her small body curled up, Andre was worried. Seeing Mia always holding her stomach, he also reached out to touch her stomach. Mia lifted her head, her eyes sparkling with tears, like twinkling stars. "Honey?" Andre quickly pulled his hand back. He picked up the pillow and put it beside his wife, "I''ll be back in a bit¡± Mr. Cedillo was in the hallway, he closed the work interface on his phone, opened a browser and typed, how to relieve a woman''s menstrual cramps? What should a husband do when his wife has abdominal pain? What should be noted during menstruation? How to relieve stomach difort? Half an hour passed and Andre still hadn''t returned. Mia was in so much pain she was about to pass out. She was nning to get up and get some painkillers. At that moment, Andre returned with a packet of medicine. "Why are you up?" Mia said, ¡°Honey, my cramps are killing me. I was going to buy some medicine.¡¯ The old man in the bed had already drifted off, their wee movements hadn''t disturbed him. Andre nudged his wife onto the couch, he tore open the medicine packet and took out a pair of painkillers, cing them in his palm, he then cracked open his newly bought bottle of water. Mia was in the dark about her husband''s intentions. ¡°Honey, are you feeling sick too? Why are you taking meds?" Andre shot his wife a nce, ¡°Open up.¡± Chapter 98 Chapter 98 "Huh?" Mia, in physical torment, was still worried about her husband. "What''s wrong, honey? What''s happening to you?" Andre sat down next to his wife, wrapping his arms around her. "Open your mouth and take the medicine" Huh? This medicine is for me?" It''s a painkiller, tll help with your cramps. Mia looked at the white pill, feeling as if lemon juice had been squeezed into her heart, sour and sweet, So, her husband had left earlier to buy her medicine. Mia found herself touched. As she looked at her husband, her eyes turned red and she was emotionally overwhelmed. Andre felt a bit awkward under his wife''s gaze. He had only done a little thing and it had moved her so much. Unconsciously, he had learned how to sweet-talk, "Good girl, take the medicine first" Mia obediently opened her mouth, and her husband put two pills in. Then he picked up a cup of water for his wife, ¡°Drink this and lie down. I''ll get you some more water." Mia obediently took the medicine, thenid down on the sofa, her eyes filled with tears. In a short while, Andre came back with some hot soup. He had searched online and found that menstrual cramps can be relieved by drinking some hot drinks and gently massaging the lower abdomen. He sat down and put his hand directly on his wife''s lower abdomen, gently rubbing her belly. Mia felt shy, she knew she was being watched, but she dared not make eye contact with him. The warmth fram Andre''s palm could be felt through her dress. His hand wasrger than hers, and the gentle rubbing somehow eased the pain she was feeling just a while ago. Andre picked up a nket on the side, shaking it open with one hand and covering Mia. Being so tenderly treated by her husband, Mia felt her heart soften and bloom like flowers, Don''t you know overeating can make you feel unwell?¡¯ Andre''s gentle voice echoed in her ears. Mia bit her lip and nodded, "I won''t eat so much again." Andre said, Good. You''re not allowed to eat so much junk food anymore. Wait till you''re feeling better." Mia nodded. Even if there were delicious food in front of her, she had no appetite to try it due to the pain. She was like this every month. When she saw delicious food, she would eat like there was no tomorrow,pletely forgetting the pain she suffered during her period. When the pain became unbearable, she would swear to never eat snacks again. But once the pain was gone a few dayster, her cravings would kick in again. Under the effect of the medicine and the rare tenderness from Anare, Mia soon fell asleep Mia was lying on hisp, Andre¡¯s hand stopped rubbing her belly, then slowly moved up, caressing her cheek. Mia looked very docile when she was asleep, and the room became quiet. In the quiet moonlit night, even the insects were asleep. Andre''s Adam''s apple bobbed, he bent dawn and gently kissed his wife''s soft, peactrlike lips. I think I''m falling for you more and more" The next day, Naomi and Bruce arrived at the hospital early and woke Mia up from the couch. Naomi told Andre to take Mia home for a good rest. Leo also came. He looked at the weak Mia, ¡°How tired were youst night to be this exhausted?" Mia was pale, and after the effect of the medicine wore off, she started to feel the pain again. Andre sat by, defending his wife, "Your aunt wasn''t feeling wellst night. Are you sick too? Leo asked, concerned. Mia gestured, "It''s nothing, just my usual problem." Leo instantly understood the reason for Mia''s weakness, "I''m with you in spirit during these few days, hang in there¡¯ He even made a cheering gesture. Andre''s gaze kept shifting between his wife and nephew. Why did his nephew understand what ¡°usual problem¡¯ meant when his wife mentioned it, but he had no clue? Had they been like this before? Did they share such private conversations? Andre felt a pang of jealousy Since his brother and sister-inw had arrived, he took his wife home early. On the way, he asked his tired and weak wife, seemingly casually but with a hidden intent, ¡°Mia, do you talk about everything with Leo?" Mia nodded. The pain made her not want to talk, Andre had a lump in his throat, and said generously, "Whatever happened before is in the past. Now that you''re his aunt, there are some overly private topics that you should only discuss with your husband, not others, especially Leo." Mia didn''t respond to her husband''s words. Choking back tears, she whined, Honey, it hurts so much." I''ll speed up. We''ll be home soon. Once we get home, you can go to bed and I''ll massage your belly. Hmm, okay~" Once they got home, Andre watched Mia take her medicine, then they returned to the master bedroom. Miay on the bed, and Andre also took off his shoes and leaned against the headboard. He put his hand on his wife''s lower abdomen, gently massaging. Mia felt better, and said to Andre, Honey, your hands are magic. Every time you massage my belly, the pain goes away." Andre replied, If you want me to massage you, find another excuse" Oh, honey, you''re very handsome. My belly feels your handsomeness and it stops hurting: Mr. Cedillo was in a good mood. When other people said he was good-looking, he found it boring. But why did he feel so happy when his wifeplimented him? Besides me, who else have youplimented? This man, since having a wife, started to feel jealous of other men who had a good rtionship with his wife Mr. Cedillo, who had never cared about appearances, now cared about who his wife had Mia locked up, met Andre''s eyes, and asked, ¡®Honey, are you jealous?" Of course not. I don''t get jealous." This stubborn man said. Mia stuck out her tongue a little, and a naughty idea popped into her head, Honey, I''veplimented many peaple on their looks." His hand on her belly stopped. Mia looked at her husband''s somewhat unhappy expression, and with a mischievous smile, continued, I''ve alsoplimented many people on their good figure, good looks, wealth, and height!" Mr. Cedillo was not in a good mood, Mia was still unaware, and continued to tease her husband. Honey, are you jealous?" The man was still stubborn, "I''m not jealous." Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Mia turned her head, looking at her husband with a yful expression, "But honey, you seem a bit upset." Andre confirmed, "Have you reallyplimented many men?" Mia had no clue that trouble was already knocking on her door, she grinned and nodded, "Yes...um... Andre lowered his head and nted a kiss on her lips. He wouldn''t admit in a million years that he was jealous! Chapter 99 Chapter 99 Andre lifted Mia''s chin and nted a kiss on her lips. The unexpected kiss caught her off-guard, her mouth agape giving him the perfect opening. He dominated her mouth like a predator. Mia tried to push him away, but his weight pinned her down, She shook her head, attempting to exin, but his angry stare left her speechless, She was pissed off! Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Ih, Mia couldn''t break free and had no choice but to give in. She closed her eyes and started responding to his passion. Andre watched her, his eyes filled with desire. He released her, looking at her lips that were now flushed from his kiss. ¡°Who are the men you''ve praised before? List their names for me. Hon, what are you up to?" Mia asked in a soft voice Andre swallowed hard, "l want to know about the men you''ve praised before" Andre.¡¯ Mia looked into his eyes, uttering his name. Andre froze, looking at her. "What did you call me? Andre" Hmm?" Andre, Andre, Andre, Andre..." Andre didn''t respond to her repeated calling of his name, he just listened to her voice. Finally, Mia confessed, "I''ve only ever praised one man, you, Andre!" Andre looked into her eyes, "Were you lying to me just now? Mia giggled and nodded, "Yes silly." Her eyes twinkled, mesmerizing him, His wife was starting to get clingy. With his other hand, he erged the surveince footage from the elevator, scrutinizing every tiny expression on the young woman''s face. In the elevator, Mia watched as the numbers kept changing, she asked herself in frustration, "How should I exin to him why I''m here? Will he think I can''t eat properly without him? What is Andre doing? Will it be abrupt if I suddenly show up without calling? What if he''s not in his office? What if he''s in a meeting? What if there are guests in his office? Ouch, it¡¯s so annoying! Why does my simple act of delivering food have to be so damnplicated?" Chapter 100 Chapter 100 The man in the office had cranked up the elevator music to the max, his grin was so wide, no hands could cover it. His sweet wifey made a surprise visit, brought him lunch. Mr. Cedillo was feeling beyond awesome, Even if someone told him Cedillo Inc was heading for bankruptcy right now, he would probably just shrug it off with a smile, saying, "If it goes bust, so be it! The elevator arrived at the designated floor. Mia nced at the floor number, she knew she was there. Stepping out of the elevator, she noticed people sneakily throwing nces at her. Mia stood still, puzzled as to why everyone was staring at her? T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Mrs. Cedillo?¡± Suddenly, someone called out to Mia. Mia immediately made a hushing gesture to them, "Shush She didn''t want Andre to know she had ridden the private elevator Everyone in the CEO''s office instinctively lowered their voices. Seeing the package in Mia''s hand, everyone began to specte whether she was there to surprise the boss The secretaries nodded in agreement, ying along with Mia''s surprise for the boss Mia skipped her way to her husband''s office door. She gently knocked on the door, Come in" Andre''s voice was full of joy. Mia pushed the door open, revealing her face, greeted the man sitting in the boss chair, "Hey, hubby~" Why are you here? Did you get enough rest?" Andre stood up to greet her. Mia walked into the room and closed the door. Outside the office, the secretaries started to chatter. I think Mrs. Cedillo was very gentle this time." Yeah, me too, Last time when Mrs. Cedillo appeared to scold the boss, I was afraid I would get fired if I heard too much" Do you think she''s here to apologize this time? Her tone is different this time, maybe she was trying to please the boss?" Maybe so." While there was a flurry of spection outside, inside the office was a warm atmosphere. Mia sat on the couch. She tock out the lunch box and put it on the table, honey, the housekeeper told me you didn''t eat, sc I''vee to bring you food. I thought since I''m here, I might as well eat here too. Do you mind?" Andre sat across from her, helping her open the lunchbox, How could I mind you?" So you dont mind me. Mia replied Andre asked, ¡°How did you get up here?" Suddenly, Mia was at a loss for words, "I, I took the elevator, it was really crowded" Mr. Cedillo looked at her with a smile, "So you got here really early?" Well, it was okay. Just that, you know, with so many people, and the elevator stopping at every floor, it really dyed a lot of time." Mia dared not to meet Andre''s eyes. Andre was somewhat surprised, why didn¡¯t she tell him that she came up in the private elevator? Mia, with so many people, why didn''t you take my private elevator?" Uh? Can I take it? I thought I couldn''t without your permission." Andre looked into his wife''s eyes, seriously saying: ¡°In this world, only you can enjoy my privileges and benefits unconditionally.¡± "Um, honey..." Mia was about to tell him the truth. Andre reiterated: ¡°You are my wife." Mia bit her lip, feeling down because of the lie she just told. Andre handed her the utensils and said, ¡°Next time youe to see me, don''t squeeze into the elevator, juste straight up" Mia nodded. Andre didn''t expose his wife, although he knew Mia just lied, but such a small matter wasn''t a big deal. Andre felt incredibly happy. He was always smiling while eating. Mia, however, found the food tasteless, her mind was constantly upied by the lie she just told. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Then, the familiar voice of the assistant, ¡°Boss." Mia turned her head to look at the door. Andre also put down his utensils and said to the person at the door, ¡°Come in" The assistant came in carrying several bags of cat food. "Boss, have your cats arrived? I thought you might not have experience for cats, so I brought all the cat food I bought for my cat" The assistant put all four bags of treats on the office floor, stood up, saw Mia, and greeted, ¡°Hello, Mrs. Cedillo" Mia bit her fork and nodded thoughtfully. Then, the assistant started looking for the cat all around. ¡°Huh, boss, where is your cat?" Andre looked at his petite wife in front of him, fluffy hair, petite figure. He tilted his chin and pointed at his wife. ¡°Right here." Mia turned her head to look at her husband''s affectionate gaze, her heart tracing. Then she pped her husband''s arm, ¡°Don¡¯t call me your cat." The assistant was stunned. He had no idea that the "cat¡± mentioned by the boss was Mrs. Cedillo! He looked down at the four bags of cat food on the floor, lost in thought. ¡°Take the cat food and go back. My cat here is high-ss, needs to eat with me, ordinary cat food is not suitable for my precious cat." Mia pped her husband''s arm again, ¡°Hubby, you can''t give me nicknames." The assistant left the boss''s office in a hurry with the four bags of cat food. Only the two of them were left in the room, and Mia was angry and put down her fork and stopped eating. ¡°Hubby, you cant tell others that I''m your cat. We specifically agreed not to tell others, but you still say that, I''m not your pet, I''m your wife" Andre smiled, ¡°Because of you, I¡¯ve started to like cats." His words made his lovely wife feel better. "Do you want to keep a cat as a pet?¡± Mia asked. Andre shook his head, ¡°having you is enough" "What if you don''t have me?" "Then I won''t like cats anymore." Because of her, Andre started to like cats, but this cat specifically refers to her. if she leaves, Andre will no longer like cats, nor will he like her anymore. "So, you can''t leave, understand?" For the first time, Andre expressed such feelings to a person, hoping she wouldn''t leave. After hearing this, Mia felt a pang in her heart. "Darling, has anyone ever left you?" Andre''s throat moved, but he didn''t answer. He didn''t want to lie to his wife, nor did he want to answer this question. He either avoided it or remained silent. Mia understood that she had touched a painful spot in her husband''s heart. She quietly walked to her husband, picked up the fork, and prepared to eat. "Darling, was the person who left you a woman or a man?" Andre eyeballed his wife as she tiptoed around her questions. Mia got him, just a nce from him was enough for her to catch his drift. "I get it." Mia hung her head, looking a bit down in the dumps. She pictured the woman who once hurt her husband in her mind. Chapter 101 Chapter 101 Mia seemed distant while eating her meal. Andre willingly offered to serve her food, but she seemed to pay no attention. "What''s on your mind?" he asked. Mia replied, "I''m worried that if I tell you, you''ll be upset." Respectfully, Andre did not press further. After lunch, Andre poured a ss of water for his wife. "Did you bring any painkillers?" he asked. Mia shook her head. Understanding, Andre pointed to his office, "You go rest, I''ll go get you some medicine." "It¡¯s okay. It doesn¡¯t hurt anymore." Mia said. Andre didn''t seem quite convinced. Mia exined, "My menstrual cramps are usually the worst on the first day, it gets better after that." If the pain was unbearable for a whole week, she would lose all enthusiasm for life. Having looked at her face, Andre chose to believe her for now. "You should rest too." Mia said. "You''ve been taking care of me all night and came straight to work in the morning. You''ll wear yourself out at this rate." Andre saw the concern in her eyes. He nced at his office, "I''ll rest in a bit..." "Not in a bit, now!" Mia insisted. She stepped forward, taking Andre by the hand and leading him to his office. Andre gave a helpless smile, "Alright, I''ll join you for a rest." They arrived at the office and saw arge bed, next to which was a door leading to the bathroom. Mia took a look at the ck sheets and gave a dissatisfied huff. Andre looked at her, "You don''t like them?" Mia said, "Even my grandpa''s sheets have more character than yours." Andre: "...are you questioning my taste?" Mia shook her head. "I think your life is too monotonous." Mia added, "Anyway, let''s rest." She took off her shoes and sat on the edge of the bed, hesitatingly asked, "Which side should I sleep on?" Andre said, "Whichever you like." He walked to the door and took off his coat. He hung his suit on the hanger and loosened his tie. Suddenly, Mia came over. She muttered, "Your suit will wrinkle if you hang it like this. Let me help you." She picked up his suit, carefully brushing off the dust. "Such a nice suit, you can''t just treat it so casually." Watching her back, Andre felt a sense of joy. After hanging up the suit, Mia picked up his tie and said, "You should hang it up. If you leave it on the table, it''ll crease over time." Suddenly, Andre reached out, grabbed her hand, and pulled her in front of him. "You''re so considerate? How about you take care of all my clothes and ties from now on, would that be okay?" Mia immediately shook her head, "No." Before she could exin her refusal, he cut her off with a single sentence. "I''ll pay you." "Okay!" Mia immediately swallowed her words and wisely nodded. Mr. Cedillo smiled, gently ruffling the girl''s hair. After Mia got into bed. "Darling, your bed is a bit hard." "Darling, your pillow is also pretty hard." "Darling, can you close the curtains?" "Darling, the AC is a bit too cold." "Darling..." Once Miaid down, she didn''t stop talking. Hearing the sweet "Darling", Mr. Cedillo was of course in a good mood. But after the followingints, one, two, three times, he could get out of bed to deal with it. But when the number increased, he stood by the bed, looking at his adorable, opinionated wife, "Give all yourints at once, so I can deal with them all at once." Mia sat up in bed, looking up at her tall husband. "I''m a bit thirsty and want a drink, not water." The man: "Anything else?" "Get me my phone, it''s outside." "Go on." "I can''t think of anything else for now." Mr. Cedillo went back to work. During lunch break, when everyone was resting, the big boss suddenly walked out of his office. The people around were shocked and got up nervously to look at the big boss. "Boss?" Andre replied, "keep resting, don¡¯t mind me." He took his water cup to the pantry. The secretary thought the boss wanted coffee, so she hurriedly got up and ran to the pantry, nning to grind coffee for him personally. "Boss, how sweet do you want your coffee? Do you need ice?" Andre took a deep breath, looking at the row of drinks in front of him. He asked, "What kind of drink do young girls usually like?" "Uh..." the secretary was a little confused and asked, "How young of a girl?" Andre: "Twenty." The secretary immediately understood that it was the boss''s cute wife who wanted a drink. The secretary told Andre, "Thedy''s clothes and bags look very young, she should like sour and sweet juice, maybe lemonade or orange juice." Andre nodded, epting the secretary''s suggestion. "Boss, do you need ice?" Suddenly remembering a night when she was in extreme pain, curled up in his arms like a hurt kitten, he replied, "No." Her stomach was not very good, better not to drink anything too cold. Andre returned to his office. The surrounding secretaries gathered around to ask the secretary, "What is the boss doing?" "Shh, the boss is getting a drink for his wife." The people around were all talking in hushed voices, quietly discussing the newlyweddy. She was young, beautiful, and the boss was their superior, handsome, rich and capable, so it was inevitable that there would be discussions. However, those who could work on this level were all top talents. Although they were a bit curious and would discuss a few times, they would not spend a long time discussing, nor would they let things that had nothing to do with them affect their work efficiency. To work at Andre''spany, the requirements were very strict, and those who could stay were all the elites carefully selected by thepany. In this industry, they were all top-notch. Andre returned to the resting room and prepared everything his wife needed. He also raised the temperature of the air conditioner for her and closed the curtains. "Any other issues?" Mia shook her head with her drink in hand, "Nope." Even if there were, she wouldn''t dare say it. Seeing that her husband''s expression was a bit off, she chose to keep quiet at the right time. Andre got into bed, folded the nket, and let Mia sleep on it. Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Mia stopped him, "Although the bed is a bit hard, I won''t be picky. It''s good for your health to sleep on a hard bed." However, the pillow was a bit high and not soft enough, she didn''t like it. The guy was already snuggled up in the nkets while Mia was still sitting on the bed. The couple locked eyes. Mia pursed her lips, a thought swirling in her mind, ¡° If I say I wanna crash on the couch with a cushion, would he get pissed off?¡± Chapter 102 Chapter 102 The man held the distracted woman in his arms. He tossed a pillow to the foot of the bed and used his own arm as a pillow for her. "Sleep," he said. "Okay." Mia was now resting on the most expensive "pillow". But it was ufortable that she was hugged again. Mia looked up at her husband, who was already closing his eyes to rest. She puckered her lips wanting to say something, but swallowed it back. She had slept too much in the morning, and now she didn''t feel sleepy at all. Andre, on the other hand, was breathing evenly. After a while, a soft voice called out, "Honey, are you asleep?" "What is it?" Mia apologized in his arms, "I''m sorry, I did something wrong." The man, who was pretending to be asleep, suddenly opened his eyes. He looked at the woman in his arms and asked anxiously, "What did you do?" "Actually, when I came up earlier, I didn''t take the elevator. I sneaked into your private elevator." Her voice grew quieter towards the end. The room fell silent for a moment. Mia tensed up, waiting for her husband''s criticism. Unexpectedly, the man spoke, but not to criticize. Instead, he retorted, "Why did you tell me the truth?" Mia clutched her chest and said, "Because lying to you makes me feel bad." As her words fell, she heardughter from above her head. He didn''t me his wife, but was more attracted to her. "It''s okay, sweetheart." In the dimly lit room, Andre''s hand touched his wife''s cheek, he bent down and kissed her hair, "It''s really okay." Mia asked, "Are you angry?" Andre replied, "No." She looked up, even though she couldn''t see her husband''s face clearly, she still looked at him. "I lied to you." "I know." Mia didn''t know what to say anymore. She lowered her head and slowly moved into her husband''s arms under the covers. Andre also turned to embrace his wife, a smile on his lips. After a while, when Mia woke up, she waspletely disoriented. The curtains were drawn, she didn''t know the exact time, looked at her phone and found it was three in the afternoon, then she was relieved. "If I had slept until eight or nine in the evening, I would have been so embarrassed." She got out of bed, put on her shoes and tidied up the room. Before leaving, she turned down the air conditioning and pulled back the curtains. As she left, she saw Andre losing his temper. "You''re trying to fool me with this data? If you can''t do it, step aside." Mia stood to one side watching him getting really angry. In front of Andre was a middle-aged man, who looked honest and simple, now he was standing still, not daring to move or speak. He was afraid of Andre, very afraid. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Andre flipped through several pages of data, the more he looked, the angrier he got. He threw all the files in his hands at the middle-aged man. The files scattered all over in the air, some evennded on the man''s feet. Andre''s expression was serious, "Pick them up and redo it. If it''s still like this tomorrow, you''re out!" The middle-aged man bowed and apologized, his voice trembling, "Yes, Mr. President." The man bent down to pick up the files one by one. Mia watched, she felt sorry for the man. The middle-aged man was more than a decade older than Andre, standing in front of Andre being scolded was too embarrassing. She trotted over, bent down to help the man pick up the files. Andre saw a light pink shadow run past, he looked closely. It was his wife. She was still on the ground helping the man pick up the files, Mia went further to pick up the scattered papers, put them together and handed them to the man. "Thank you." The man bowed in thanks. He looked at the girl who had suddenly appeared in the president''s office. She was about the same age as his child. "You are¡­?" He didn''t dare to ask too much, after all, anyone who appeared in the president''s office, and was not in uniform, was not someone he could gossip about. Mia nced at the displeased man, "I''m his niece, you can go back to your work." The man turned to Andre again to apologize, promising to deliver on time the next day, then left. When there were only the two of them in the office, Mia noticed the intense gaze on her. She faced it head-on. The man who had been stern just now and the husband who had been gentle and doting on her before seemed like two different people. Just now he seemed to have returned to the time when they first got married, when he was so bad- tempered that she hated him. Andre was already upset, and now Mia had even said she was his niece, which made him even angrier. He mmed down in his chair, "have you slept too much that you don''t even recognize me?" His voice was deep, looking at his wife who didn''t know what she had done wrong. She didn''t exin, so he had to speak first. Mr. Cedillo didn''t know, this waspromise. Mia started to annoy him, "I don''t want that man to know you''re my husband." No doubt, her words made him even more displeased. His expression was serious, staring into his wife''s eyes waiting for an exnation. "My husband should be gentle, good-tempered, sincere and respectful. Not someone who is too serious with his subordinates." Oh? Mia wasining that he had been too harsh on his subordinates. Mia wasn''t afraid of Andre, if he dared to bully her, she would just fight him. Mia''s thoughts were simple, she continued, "If I say you''re my husband, then people will know I married a hot-tempered guy. So, I''ll let you experience what it feels like to be insulted." She deliberately called him uncle, indirectly reminding him of his age. Mia''s words were like buckets of gasoline thrown on the fire in his heart. But she was like a fire extinguisher, as long as she stood in front of him, he would hold back his temper. Not to mention others, if any member of the Cedillo family dared to speak to him like this, he wouldn''t let them off. But the one saying these things was Mia, his beloved, so he held back! "When you threw the files at him just now, I knew you were not a good person." Mr. Cedillo thought, I''m the bad guy in my wife''s eyes again. Chapter 103 Chapter 103 Mia said, "That man is about the same age as our dad, so if you''ve got an issue with him, be upfront about it. Why do you need to toss stuff around? Have you thought about his dignity? If his family saw this, they''d be pissed. If someone did that to my dad, I''d never let them off." Turns out, she wasparing that man''s situation to that of her own father''s. "Our father is the chairman of the Cedillo Group, no one dares to lose their temper with him." Everyone wants to suck up to him. Who would dare to give him a hard time? Mia frowned, saying anxiously, "Honey, why can''t you get my point? I''m saying you didn¡¯t respect him." "He''s not focused on his job, and I pay him a good sry." "So, you think that paying him a high sry gives you the right to insult him?" Andre took a deep breath, trying to calm his inner rage. "Mia, listen to me. The mistakes he made are rookie ones that even Leo wouldn''t make. Either he''s trying to fool me with someone else''s data, or he''s just not being responsible at work. That''s why I got mad. "He''s been working at thepany for a long time, so I didn''t fire him on the spot but gave him a chance to correct his mistakes. As for you saying that me throwing the files was insulting him." Andre swallowed, saying, "I admit that I was wrong. I lost my cool earlier because I was too angry. I''ll keep it in check next time, okay?" Mia was still frowning. Andre left the office area. Standing in front of Mia, he patiently said, "Mia, I''ll ept and correct what you''ve pointed out, but, when ites to thepany''s management, it''s best you don''t interfere. I got Cedillo Inc. to where it is today with my own management style. If there are things you can''t ept, just ignore it." Mia''s tone softened, "Honey, I still think you were too much just now. Since he''s been working at the The fact that he personally came to the president''s office to submit the materials shows that he''s at least a senior manager in thepany. But how could he make such a rookie mistake today? There must be a reason." Hearing his wife''s advice, Andre also started to ponder over his subordinate''s unusual behaviour. There would be small issues from time to time, but most of the time, he was diligent and responsible at work. For this reason, Andre promoted him. Why did he make such a rookie mistake this time? He began to think, but didn''t forget tofort his wife. "You go home first, I''ll look into it. If he really has a genuine reason, I''ll handle it appropriately, okay?" Mia nodded, and was escorted by her husband into his private elevator. Just as the elevator doors were about to close, Mia asked, "Are youing home for dinner tonight?" "I have a dinner party to attend tonight, I''ll be homete." Hearing this, Mia nodded. The elevator doors closed, and the elevator started to descend. Andre returned to his office, calling over his assistant. "Check on Austin from the finance department for me." "Austin?" The assistant asked curiously. Andre nodded, settling back into his seat, leaning against the back of the chair, looking at his assistant standing in front of his desk. "Has he behaved unusually recently?" "Sir, Austin has recently been the subject of office gossip, everyone feels sorry for him." Andre furrowed his brows, waiting for the assistant to continue. "His wife left him and took all his savings. His mother, who is old, was so shocked by the news that she had a stroke. His daughter is studying abroad and apparently has gotten into trouble and been expelled from school." Andre didn''t really care about these things. He valued work efficiency and rarely paid attention to his employees'' private lives. "Why did his wife leave him?" The assistant began discussing with Andre. "This is his second marriage. I heard that his mother didn''t like his first wife, leading to their divorce. He then married a new wife, who his mother approved of and left him. They had a good life. This woman even had a son for Austin, who is due to start middle school this year, and their life was harmonious. But she met a trainer at the gym, then ran away from home, took all his savings and left with the trainer, leaving her husband and son behind, and even causing his mother to have a stroke from the anger. The daughter is from the first wife and has always beencking discipline. The stepmother didn''t discipline her, and as a result, Austin sent her abroad. With no one to look after her, she got into a lot of trouble." The assistant talked for a long time, and Andre came to understand his subordinate''s family problems. "What a headache." The assistant nodded, "Yes, there''s really no way to help him. This isn''t something we can solve by fundraising. His wife has left him, his mother had a stroke, and his daughter is also problematic. He''s been lost recently." Andre rubbed his forehead, he was indeed not good at dealing with these kinds of situations. "Got it, you can go now." "Sir, did you just want to understand the situation?" The assistant asked curiously. Thinking of Mia being angry earlier, and the dissatisfaction in her eyes when she left, Andre felt a blockage in his chest. "Get the Secretary General over here." "Alright." The assistant left, and called the Secretary General to the office. Everyone in the business world knows that Andre has a pair of capable assistants. One was the public rtions expert, Noah, who primarily handled Andre''s external affairs. The other was the formidable middle-aged woman, Alice, who was responsible for all internal operations of thepany. Alice was the Secretary General, sharp-minded. There had been people who tried to poach these two from Andre, but they steadfastly stayed with him. Later, when the two of them were bothered by this, they told Andre. "Mr. Cedillo, we just want to focus on work." Andre was also annoyed, and in a fit of anger, he acquired thatpany, making it a subsidiary of Cedillo Inc. This served as a warning to everyone, no one should try to challenge his authority, or they might not T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. even be able to keep theirpany. "Sir, what can I do for you?" Alice walked into his office, standing in front of him respectfully. Andre cleared his throat and asked her, "If a child is upset, what kind of gift should be given to appease her?" A child? Alice immediately thought of thedy of the house. "It depends on why she''s upset." Giving gifts also needs to be situation-specific. Alice is in charge of thepany''s yearly perks, and Andre was always satisfied with her work abilities. Andre said, "She wasn''t a fan of my way of doing things. We had a small fight over it, and then she left." Chapter 104 Chapter 104 "Why not gift her some fancy jewelry? She''s always dressed to the nines, all her dresses and bags are high-end brands. I bet she''d love something like that. I noticed she didn''t have any essories on her wrist today, so how about a custom bracelet?" As Andre pondered, Alice chimed in, "She''s not mad at you specifically, you know. Once she sees the gift, she''ll know you''re trying to make amends and let it slide." Andre nodded, "You''reing with me to the party tonight." "What about Noah?" "Noah''s taste is crap, better leave him at the office." "Alright then." By ''taste'', Andre meant Noah''s ability to pick a good bracelet. After work, Alice and Andre made a beeline for the mall. "Boss, I thought you''d ring the manager of some luxury brand to have the bracelet delivered to your office," Alice said. "No, buying it personally shows more sincerity. If we wait for them to deliver, it might not get here till tomorrow." Andre could already picture the earful he''d get from Mia once he was back home. Sometimes she''d call Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. him ''uncle'', other times ''Old Andre''. She always knows how to provoke him. "I want to take look at that one," Andre pointed to a delicate gold bracelet in a brochure. The manager immediately asked an employee to fetch it. With Andre¡¯s personal visit, senior staff weed him. "Who''s the lucky recipient, Mr. Cedillo?" the manager asked. "My wife," Andre replied. The manager was bbergasted. Once the bracelet was brought out, Andre examined the simple yet sparkling piece. The manager started exining the design concept, the materials and techniques used, and the symbolism behind it. Alice, a magazine junkie, quickly remembered a rted article, "Boss, this bracelet is designed by the internationally renowned Alexander and it''s pricey. I''m sure it''ll suit Mia perfectly. Plus, it''s handpicked by you, she''ll definitely love it." Andre was thoroughly pleased. He nodded, ced the bracelet back in its box, and handed over his bank card, "I¡¯ll take it." Gift in hand, Andre left the mall satisfied. In the car, Alicemented, "You treat your wife really well, boss." Andre was in high spirits, "She''s a kid at heart. If you don''t spoil her, she throws tantrums and turns the house upside down." Meanwhile, Mia was secretly sneaking a popsicle from the fridge. Without cramps, she could eat anything again. Mia, lounging in bed, called Hansen at the hospital to ask how he was doing. "Dad, Andre has a dinner party tonight. We won''t be able to visit you, but you should be able toe home tomorrow." Hansen, enjoying his dinner, replied casually, "No need toe, I''m fine here. Bruce and Naomi are at the hospital, don¡¯t worry about me." Mia joked, "If you miss me, I can have the driver take me over." "No, I don''t miss you. Don''te, just stay home." "Haha, alright dad." Mia hung up the phone. Hansen muttered to himself, "I wouldn''t dare have her over. Even if I¡¯m healthy, she could drive me to sickness. My blood pressure was through the roofst night." By evening, Mia stepped out for dinner. Being the only one in the Cedillo family, she declined all the fussy procedures. "I''ve already washed my hands, you can take the basin away." The maid left. Someone offered to assist her with the meal, "I have hands and feet, you all can leave." Soon, the dining hall was deserted. Mia began to relish her meal. Meanwhile, at Crescent Park. Andre was checking a post by the girl, "Enjoying a feast all by myself, so lucky." He liked the post and replied, "Don''t eat anything spicy or cold." Mia responded with a goofy cat emoticon and a caption: ¡®Not listening.'' Andre couldn''t help but chuckle during the socializing. "Anything good happening, Mr. Cedillo?" someone asked. "No, just someone at home being a naughty kitty," he replied,ughing. Alice knew who the ''naughty kitty'' was and filled in the nks for Andre. Before long, Aaron Irvin showed up. "Andre?" Seeing Andre, he was surprised. Andre stood up, "Dad." The host was flustered by this unexpected scene. Who invited Aaron? If he''d known Aaron wasing, he wouldn''t have seated Andre in the main seat. The host was breaking out in a cold sweat. Thankfully, the two didn''t make a scene and just swapped seats. The experienced people at the table kept the conversation light, preventing any awkwardness. Naturally, the two ended up sitting together. "How''s Hansen doing?" Aaron asked. "He''s doing well, should be discharged tomorrow," Andre replied. Aaron mentioned his daughter, "Let Mia apany you to the hospital to pick up Hansen." Andre shook his head, "Mia has sses tomorrow, so she won¡¯t go. Hospitals are full of germs, I don''t want her there often. I''ll drop by tomorrow." Aaron was more and more pleased with Andre hearing this. At the banquet, everyone was having a good time. Andre''s phone rang. He nced at the caller ID and excused himself to take the call. Aaron took a peek at the note, wondering who ''Kittemia'' was. In the hallway, Andre answered the call. "Why are you still up?" "Honey, when are youing home?" Andre nced at the banquet room door, "You have ss tomorrow, go to bed. I''ll be homete." "Okay, I''ll leave the door unlocked. Try toe back as early as you can." Hearing Mia''s soft voice, Andre felt a warmth in his heart, like a quiet ''Kittemia'' lying on a soft cotton bed. "Alright." Mia reminded him again, "Don''t drink too much." "Don''t worry, your dad is here too." "What? My dad''s having dinner with you?" Mia asked curiously. Andre nodded, "Yes, it''s a coincidence, I hadn''t known beforehand." "Then please keep an eye on my dad too, make sure he doesn''t drink too much and take him home "Alright, I promise." He pacified his wife on the other end of the phone, telling her to go to sleep, and then walked into the private room with a smile. "Who was that on the phone?" Mia''s father''s gaze was sharp, noticing some unease in Andre''s smile. Andre responded, "It was Mia, asking when I''ll being home." "Oh, it''s her." So "Kittemia" is his daughter. Chapter 105 Chapter 105 Thatment was super easy to get twisted. Aaron chuckled awkwardly and said, "The nicknames these kidse up these days are getting more and more unique." After packing her school bag at home, Mia chucked it on the couch and crawled into bed to get some sleep. With no one around, she tossed and turned on the bed a few times before finally closing her eyes. Since he had sses the next day, Leo headed home too. Around 10 PM, Leo was getting ready to hit the hay after cleaning up, when his phone buzzed. It was a call from Andre. "Leo, are you at home or still at the hospital?" "I''m home." Andre responded, "If you''re not busy,e and pick me up at Crescent Park. I''ve had a few drinks and can''t drive." Leo was surprised. He wasn''t even out of school yet and his uncle never let him meet the partners of Cedillo Inc. This was the first time he''d been asked to pick him up. If he went, everyone would probably know who he was. "Uncle, are you sure you want me to go?" "Juste over, I''m in room 503." Andre hung up and Leo was left holding his phone, wondering what his uncle had meant. He walked out, got in his car and drove away from Cedillo Mansion, heading towards the bustling city center and eventually stopping outside Crescent Park. He usually had a driver for these outings, but this time Noah wasn''t around, and Alice was a woman. So, he had his nephewe instead, giving Leo a chance to show his face in front of the Cedillo family''s business partners. "Knock, knock, knock", someone said at the door. "Come in," said Andre. As Leo stepped in, he saw at least a dozen people in the room, all of them turning to look at him. "I''m here." Andre nodded and motioned Leo over with a wave of his hand. Leo nced again at the businessmen in the room and walked over to Andre, "Hello, uncle Aaron." He was already used to calling Aaron uncle. Aaron nodded, "Leo''s here." Andre rose to introduce him, "This is my nephew, Leo." "So, this is Mr. Leo. He does bear a resemnce to Mr. Cedillo." "How old is Leo?" "Mr. Cedillo, Leo seems to have quite the aura." The surroundingpliments made Andre smile and Leo thanked him politely. "It''s gettingte, everyone should head home. Anyter and the missus'' at home will lock us out." With that, everyone realized it was time to leave. Andre patted Leo on the back and led him and Aaron out first. "Dad, let Leo take you home. You''ve been drinking and the driver isn''t here." Aaron didn''t argue and got in his daughter-inw''s car. Leo closed the car door and drove away from Crescent Park. Once they left, the people behind were left with thoughts of their own, wondering why Andre had suddenly brought Leo out, and where Leo studied, and how old he was. In the car, Leo asked, "Uncle, you never let me meet our business partners before, why did you let me handle this today?" He was puzzled because this task could have been done by the driver, but Andre insisted that he came along. Andre exined his thoughts, "You''re a college student now, you should start getting involved in the family business. Today is just the beginning. You''ll also need to attend social events with me during the holidays, get some experience." Aaron nodded in agreement, "Starting early is always good. Leo, learn from Andre. Even if you only learn half of what he knows, you''ll stand out in this industry." Leo didn''t respond, focusing on his driving. The backseat was filled with the two men''s conversation. "Andre, don''t you find today a bit strange?" It was supposed to be an invitation to dinner with Andre, but no arrangements had been made beforehand and he was also invited. Moreover, the invitation he received was ten minutester than the usual dinner time. Obviously, someone was stirring up trouble. When this issue was brought up, Andre instantly sobered up. He slowly said, "There''s a problem within thepany." The one who had invited them was the chairman of Richard Co. and he intended to continue cooperating with Cedillo Inc. But within his ownpany, someone wanted to disgrace the chairman, anger Andre, and thus refuse to cooperate with him. During dinner, Alice had already sent people to investigate Richard Co.''s situation. Andre told Aaron the final investigation result. "The second inmand at Richard Co. wants to rece the chairman. The key is whether the contract with the Cedillo Group can continue. If the chairman can persuade me to continue cooperating with Richard Co., it means that the Cedillo T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Group acknowledges the chairman''s abilities, and he can remain as the CEO of Richard Co. Faced with his presence, the rivals naturally thought of ways to sabotage this cooperation. So, they tricked me into starting the dinner again because of your arrival." On the surface, everyone was harmonious, chatting like old friends, but in their hearts, they had already judged Richard Co. Aaron found that Andre was highly efficient and capable. He was able to understand the problem clearly in a short dinner time. Looking at Andre, Aaron felt a mixture of emotions. "Will you reach an agreement with the chairman this time?" Andre thought for a while, "I''ll ask Mia when I get home." "Her? What can she understand? Isn''t asking her a waste of time?" Andre: "I''ll listen to her this time." Andre rolled down the window and looked out at Havenbrook. The streetlights flickered and the traffic was sparse. It was alreadyte. The hustles and bustle of the day had quieted down. The road was devoid of other vehicles. They were passing by a 24-hour convenience store before Andre had the driver stop the car. He went inside the store and returned with a bag of stuff."What did you buy?" "Something for Mia." After opening the bag, it turned out to be brown sugar. Aaron, who had been married for many years, seemed to understand and didn''t ask further. Once he got home, he''d chat with his wife about Andre''s thoughtfulness and dedication, while also taking the piss about the weird names young people wereing up with these days. By the time Andre got home, it was well past eleven. Mia was already out for the count. Only after getting out of the car did Leo finally spill his guts to Andre, "Uncle, I don''t want to go into business." Andre yed dumb. "It''ste, time to hit the sack. Tomorrow morning, I''ll have the driver drop you off at school." "Sure." When Andre returned to the bedroom, he saw a girl with her face nted on the bed, dead to the world. He walked over, scooped her up, and flipped her over toy on her back. After tucking her in, Andre left to freshen up. When he came back to the bedroom, he found Mia face down on the bed again. He flipped her over again. "Mmm, hubby." She opened her eyes drowsily, calling out when she saw the blurry figure in front of her, and then drifted off again. Andre gently patted her shoulder, lulling her to sleep like a small child. The room was still lit by the wall light Mia had left on for him. Chapter 106 Chapter 106 Worried that he mighte homete and not be able to see clearly inside, the light at the entrance was left on. The bedsidemp was on too. The beauty on the bed was bathed in a warm yellow light, an air of gentleness and sweetness hovering about her. Andre opened a package and took out a bracelet, cing it on his wife''s wrist. The woman, deep in her dreams, didn''t notice a thing. He climbed into bed, cuddled up to his sweet-smelling wife, and drifted off to sleep. The next day. Dawn broke. Mia woke up to find herself alone. She suspected that her husband hadn''te homest night. Just as she was about to go mad, she noticed the telltale signs of sleep on his pillow. Her anger fizzled out instantly. She buried her face in her husband''s pillow and took a whiff and thought to herself: Hmmm, so he was homest night. "Smell anything?" The man leaning against the door frame with his arms crossed, grinned at his wife, who was busy sniffing his pillow. "Sure did, my hubby was homest night." Mia put down his pillow and got out of bed. Suddenly, something unusual on her wrist caught her eye. Mia raised her hand and saw the bracelet she''d been wanting. "The ''Sparkling Bloom'' by Alexander!" Her eyes lit up as she excitedly said the name of the bracelet. Andre was smiling. Looks like his wife really loved those things. "Do you like it?" Mia nodded vigorously, like a chicken pecking at food. "Love it, really do! But it''s too expensive, I couldn''t bear to buy it." "Haven''t I told you? If you want something, buy it. If you''re reluctant to spend, I''ll pay." "Even luxury goods?" Andre nodded. Mia, delighted, flung herself into her husband''s arms, hugging his waist and burying her face in his chest, expressing her joy. Andre patted her on the head, a satisfied smile on his face. In the morning, while Mia was washing up, Andre said: "The employee who got told off yesterday had a special circumstance." "What was it?" Andre told his wife about Austin''s family situation. "Do you have any good solutions to help him?" Mia, brushing her teeth, paused and frowned. "I don''t." She quickly finished washing up and headed out to tell her husband, "Complicated family matters are for him to deal with. If his wife ran away, let the police catch her. If his mom had a stroke, let a doctor save her. If his daughter''s gone off the rails, it''s his fault as a father. We, bystanders, can''t help. But," she added, grinning at her husband. "Spit it out." Mia said, "My husband might be able to help." "Oh?" He was interested in hearing what his wife had to say. Mia tugged at his hand and cooed, "Hmm~ If you could give him some time off, he might be able to handle his home affairs more efficiently. When a person is in a state of grief, they can''t work efficiently. His body''s at work but his mind''s at home. If that''s the case, he can''t manage both. If you give him a few days off to focus on his family matters, he won''t mess up at work and you won''t get mad. Then you''ll still be my gentle husband. Besides, he''ll have enough energy and time to deal with his family problems. Once that''s done, he can devote himself to work. Furthermore, the employees at Cedillo Inc. know that you are a great leader who care about his employees'' lives. You would even give them time off. They all respect you and are proud to have such a leader." Andre asked, "So are you going to introduce yourself as my niece or my wife when you''re at the "I''d definitely introduce myself as your wife." Andre gently stroked Mia''s head and leaned down to kiss her lips. "We''ll do as you say." Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Mia''s face instantly turned red. She was having trouble exining to Andre! They were often intimate. If this kept up, she''d really be his wife. "Tell him I''m your wife, not your niece, when you see him today. Don''t let people misunderstand~" Andre lightly pinched his wife''s nose. "Aren''t you the one causing the misunderstanding?" Pouting, Miained, "Hmph, I was just mad for a moment yesterday." Whenever she acted cute, Andre felt that she was the most wronged. "Alright, there''s one more thing you need to decide on." "What else could I decide? Tell me, hubby." Mia asked excitedly. Without realizing it, she was back in his arms. Andre told her in detail about what had happened yesterday. "Whether we cooperate or not is entirely up to you." "What?" This cooperation was worth at least several billion. He was just going to let her decide like that? Andre didn''t pressure her. He exined, "Even if we don''t cooperate with Richard Co., there are other when making a decision." "Honey, what would you do if you were in my shoes?" Andre: "Based on my own thoughts, I''d choose not to cooperate. A person who can''t manage a profits." Out of curiosity, Mia asked, "Why did you let me decide then? Haven''t you already made up your mind?" Andre gently stroked his wife''s hair. "Just for fun." Mia was confused. She asked again, "What if my decision goes against yours?" She exined, "That vice president is too bad. He doesn''t know how to fight fairly. He even uses some dirty tricks. He took advantage of my dad and you. He definitely has character issues. Compared to him, I think Mr. Richard''s ability might be a bitcking, but at least he has good character. It''s safer to work with him. Let''s just cooperate with him." Andre knew. Whenever he asked his wife, he would never be disappointed. "Have thewyer send the contract today." He stroked her hair. She was petite and delicate, like a child who hadn''t grown up in his eyes. Mia still had the bracelet he had given her on her wrist. She felt she needed to respond. So, before they went downstairs for breakfast, she tiptoed over, gave her husband a quick peck on the cheek, and ran off. Only a smiling man was left in the room. When people were in love, they were always in a good mood. At Havenbrook University ssroom. Before they left in the morning, Andre took her water bottle and looked at the picture on it and said, "This cat looks familiar." "Do you have a cat?" Leo asked. Andre looked at his wife beside him and said, "Like the one in my arms." Chapter 107 Chapter 107 Mia''s smile was soft as she said, "There you go calling me your kitten again." There was no usation in her tone, just a hint of sweetness. Leo shot her an annoyed nce. At school, Leo and Jade discussed a lot about Mia and Andre. "Oh my gosh, is it true? Mia has found true love after marriage?" Looking at Mia grinning like an idiot while daydreaming, they both nodded, "It''s true." Jade sighed, "She was single for 20 years, but managed to find true love after marriage. That''s some serious divine intervention." Leo said, "I wish God would intervene for me too, and send Andre and her off to Maplewood Estates already. I can''t stand them at home." Jade replied, "Well, you''re a guy, so you won''t get divine intervention. You¡¯ll have to fend for yourself." In ss, Mia''s mind wandered to her husband while listening to the boring lecture. And then, she started giggling. Jade and Leo exchanged looks and shook their heads, "Even sitting this far, I can feel the lovey-dovey vibesing from her." At Cedillo Inc., CEO''s office. Austin, who had been criticized yesterday, came to the CEO''s office again, this time presenting his new data with trembling hands. His heart hung in the air as Andre reviewed it. Andre noticed that the data was finally correct. Just one nce from him yesterday had Austin scared out of his wits. Andre asked, "I hear there''s been trouble at home. What''s your n?" Austin looked up in surprise at his boss, who seemed concerned about his personal life. Andre''s gaze wasn''t as stern as it had been yesterday, but rather had a hint of caring enquiry. Aware that his personal issues were known in thepany, Austin said, "Sir, I won''t let my personal issues affect my work. Please give me another chance." If he lost his job again, it would be the end of the world for him. Andre took a deep breath. Had he been too harsh before and made his subordinates so scared? He said, "I won''t fire you. If I give you a week off, can you sort out your home issues?" "Sir." Austin looked at Andre. A week off? That sounded like he was being fired. Andre thought to himself that when he''s being nice, his subordinates seemed more scared of him. He coughed twice, instantly reverting to his usual cold demeanor, and said to Austin sternly, "Sort out your home issues within a week. We''ll find someone capable who can cover for you temporarily. If you bring personal issues to work after a week, resign." Austin replied, "Yes, yes, thank you, sir." Seeing Andre back to normal, he felt relieved and grateful. "You don''t need to thank me. It was my wife''s idea." "Wife?" Austin was puzzled. He''d never met Andre''s wife. How did she know about his issues? Andre thought of the yful girl, "The young girl you met yesterday, the one who was messing around, isn''t my niece. She''s my wife, Mia." Austin eximed in surprise, "Ah!" He''d thought that girl was Andre''s niece! So, this was the legendary Mrs. Cedillo. "Thank you, thank you!" As Austin thanked him and was about to leave by taking the elevator, Alice appeared. "Alice, any instructions?" Austin asked politely. Alice replied, "As per the CEO''s instructions, I''ve transferred 100,000 dors to your bank ount. Austin, don''t let the CEO down." Austin was taken aback. The CEO had given him time off and even transferred money to show his concern. Grateful, all he could do was express his gratitude, "Thank you." Just as Mia had predicted, Andre had won everyone''s respect in thepany with that incident. Noah mentioned the hot topic at lunch, "Sir, we all feel very fortunate and honored to be part of Cedillo Inc." Andre said, "Tell everyone, that was my wife''s idea, not mine." Noah replied, "Sir, your words when signing the contract with Richard Co. have piqued the whole Havenbrook businessmunity''s interest in your wife. People are already investigating her in secret. If the employees find out how kind she is, the next time shees, I''m afraid the wholepany will It had been two days since he had signed the agreement with Richard Co. Austin had also been gone for two days. After the signing, the chairman of Richard Co. had thanked Andre profusely. Andre had simply said, "ording to my personality, I would never cooperate with someone who can''t manage theirpany. You should thank my wife. It''s her who gave you this opportunity. You should seize it." Ever since then, Andre''s wife had be a sensation. He asked coldly, "Who''s asking about Mia?" Noah replied, "Severalpanies. They probably want to coborate with us next quarter, so they''re trying to curry favor with Mrs. Cedillo." Andre said, "Note their names and refuse to cooperate with them. Tell everyone that if anyone bothers her, they''ll pay the price." Noah said, "Yes." Noah thought to himself, ¡°So this is what the boss is like after marriage. He wants the world to know how good his wife is, but doesn''t want anyone to bother her.¡± Mia was oblivious to her husband''s thoughts. She was still as rebellious as ever. She hadn''t been feeling well the past few days. Andre had warned her not to eat or drink anything cold, but she couldn''t resist the temptation. After dinner, she "wandered" to the refrigerator. She looked left, right, up, and down: no one was around, the perfect opportunity to sneak some ice cream. She quietly opened the fridge and slowly reached her hand in. A cough came from behind her. Recognizing the familiar voice, Mia''s face fell instantly. "Honey~" Andre looked at the ice cream in her hand, his eyes telling her to put it back. Mia nced at the fridge, then at the ice cream, and whined, "I just want a bite." "Put it back." His eyes were full of resolve, leaving no room for negotiation. Reluctantly, Mia put the ice cream back in the fridge. Leo, who loved a good scene, chuckled, "Mia, don''t be scared, fight him!" Andre lifted his leg and delivered a swift kick to Leo''s butt. "What did you say?" Leo rubbed his bum. He crawled along the wall like a wounded bird, trying to get away from the unpredictable Andre. Mia couldn''t believe her husband would resort to violence. She breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Thank goodness I put the ice cream back, or I might have been next,¡± she thought to herself. "Go upstairs, take a shower, and then go to bed." Andre told her. Mia obediently trudged upstairs. At night, she craved ice cream again.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. She even pretended to have a terrible stomachache. As Andre frantically searched for painkillers, she said, "If I have just one ice cream, my stomach will stop hurting." Andre was having none of it and said, "Then keep having a stomachache." Chapter 108 Chapter 108 "Babe, my stomach hurts!" She was rolling around in bed, flopping next to Andre. Andre was sitting up, leaning against the headboard and reading a book. Seeing her in difort, he nced but didn''t do anything, letting her continue toin. "Babe, my tummy hurts so bad I could cry." she tried again. This time, Andre reached out, put his hand on her belly and gently rubbed. "Rubbing doesn''t help! Only ice cream can make it better~" Andre closed his book and put it on the nightstand. Seeing him put down the book, Mia thought he agreed. But her joy didn''t evenst a minute before Andre pulled her into his arms. "If rubbing doesn''t help, then I''ll just sleep with you! You''ll forget the pain once you fall asleep." Mia pouted, "I don''t want to sleep!" Andre never thought there would be a day where he''d be bickering with his wife over such trivial things. "Honey, I want to stargaze," said Mia. Andre said, "It''s a cloudy tonight, no stars to see." "Darling, I need to see Leo about something." Andre pinched Mia''s face and whispered, "No seeing him after eight." "I need to see your dad then." "He''s asleep." "Honey." Andre warned, "If I catch you sneaking ice cream, there will be no more snacks in this house ever." Mia sighed in frustration and muttered, "Your parents say you''re nice to me. You won''t even let me eat ice cream, you''re not nice at all!" Andre went along with her words, "Yeah, I''m always abusive to you at home." "Good that you know." Miained softly in his arms. She fell asleep unknowingly, and her stomach didn''t hurt anymore, nor did she keep asking for ice cream. Andre got up in the middle of the night and instructed the house staff to hide the ice cream in the fridge, to prevent her from sneaking in some when he wasn''t home. "If Mia asks for ice cream tomorrow, don''t tell her where it''s hidden. Whoever gives her ice cream will be fired and never rehired." The staff in charge of hiding the ice cream agreed. Even the butler joined in on the ice cream hiding mission, "Mr. Andre, what if Mr. Hansen wants some?" Andre gave the butler a stern look, "Let hime to me personally." The butler chuckled. Andre certainly had the upper hand in the house, even being able to control Mr. Hansen''s sweet tooth. The next day, at the Cedillo family''s dining table, Mia and Hansen were expressionless, seemingly very unhappy. Mia got up early, opened the fridge to indulge in some ice cream: "How''s it empty?" She opened all thepartments in the fridge, only to find out that there was no ice cream left. Hansen, who also got up early, sneaked over to look for ice cream. "How''s it empty? There were at least 20 boxes yesterday." Mia and Hansen went to ask the butler. "Where did all the ice cream in the fridge go?" The butler said "Mr. Andre said, if you want ice cream, you need to ask him personally." Since Andre had already said that, Mia and Hansen clearly weren''t going to ask him. So at the dining table, they were both ring at Andre angrily. Naomi Mastin asked, "Why are you guys looking at Andre like that?" Andre''s lips curled slightly, "Mia is expressing her love for me." "Humph, you hid my ice cream, how could I possibly love you?" She said loudly in front of everyone. The servants in the dining hall were shocked. That''s Mr. Andre! He''s the ruthless business tycoon with an unpredictable temper. His wife dared to argue with him publicly? However, Andre was still smiling. He didn''t get angry. He turned to his wife, soothing her, "What did I sayst night?" "I don''t care! I don''t need you to control me." Hansen thought his daughter-inw was quite impressive, venting for him. "Mia, don''t bother with Andre. Just buy some ice cream on your way home from school today. And get me a chocte one." Mia huffed and agreed with Hansen. Andre was leisurely eating breakfast, looking quite pleased. Before sending Mia to school, he whispered something in her ear that made her instantly fume. "No way!" "Then behave yourself," said Andre. Mr. Cedillo''s n worked. He watched as his wife''s car leave his sight. Hansen was endlessly curious. He asked Andre, "What did you threaten Mia with?" "I didn''t threaten her. I just told her that if she sneaks ice cream at school, I''ll personally go there and make a scene as her husband." Andre said with smugness. He knew that Mia didn''t want their rtionship to be public at school, but he had deliberately threatened her, making her have to resist eating ice cream. Hansen pointed at him angrily, "You sly guy, applying your business tactics at home, even on your wife! Andre, if you keep this up, Mia might leave you, divorce you." Mr. Cedillo looked at his angry father indifferently, "Wasn''t it you who asked her to marry me?" he smirked, "She''s already Mrs. Cedillo. Would she dare to divorce me without my approval?" His words left Hansen speechless. Andre walked towards his car. He said to Hansen, "Don''t be mad. Until her health improves, you won''t be having any ice cream either." "Andre, I''m your father! You can control your wife, but you want to control me too?" Hansen yelled in frustration. Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Andre drove past him leisurely. Hansen was so mad that he wanted to throw a rock at Andre''s car. Unfortunately, the ground in front of the house was smooth, not a single rock in sight. He went back to the living room in anger. Andre thought, as long as he could control Mia not to eat ice cream, he''d have solved a big problem. But what he didn''t anticipate was that when he got home from work that evening and walked into the living room. He heard the rustling sound of stic wrappers being torn open. He turned to see that Mia and Hansen had found a new snack - sour gummy candy. "Hansen, I''ve got a bunch of different brands of sour gummies that I love. I bought a pack of each. You have got to try every single one." "Sounds good to me. Mia, you''re a gem, really looking out for me." Even though the sourness was making him cringe, Hansen kept munching away. Hansen found the sour gummies way too sour, so Mia handed him a ss of water and suggested he rinse the gummies in the water before eating. Hansen promptly followed this advice. A littleter, Leo strolled over with three bottles of soda in hand. Chapter 109 Chapter 109 After Leo sat down, the three popped open a bottle of drink each. They sipped on soda and continued to munch on sour candy. Leo asked Hansen, "Gramps, are we treating you alright?" "You guys treat me too well, way better than Andre. He only likes to criticize me and wouldn¡¯t let me do anything. Think about it, isn¡¯t he busy enough managing apany? How does he still have time to control us over ice cream? It really pisses me off." After Hansen finished talking, he grabbed another bag of sour candy to eat. Leo also grabbed a bag, "He surely didn''t expect that although he stopped you guys from eating ice cream, he couldn¡¯t stop you from eating sour candies. I think Mia is really Andre''s match. She¡¯s so stubborn, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll give Andre a hard time in the future." Andre kept quiet. He was using a pir to hide himself, listening carefully to the usations being made about him in the room. With his hands in his pockets, he stood behind the pir for five minutes before deciding to show himself. At that moment, his wife spoke again, "Before hees back, we need to quickly clean up the garbage on the table to not get caught. Otherwise, we won''t have good stuff to eat tomorrow." While eating, Leo said, "Mia, aren¡¯t you very tough? Why are you so timid in front of him? You should bring out your previous momentum, have a big fight with him, make him bow in front of you." Andre chuckled. Seemed like Leo was asking for trouble. Mia: "I dare not. If I beat him, he might despise me for not being gentle and then cheat on me with other women. If he beats me, then I might be at risk of domestic violence in the future." Andre remained silent as he kept to eavesdrop.. Hansen also joined in the discussion, "Mia, don¡¯t worry. I guarantee you that Andre will never cheat. If he cheated, he wouldn¡¯t have remained single until 28, even having his marriage arranged by his father. As for domestic violence, I don¡¯t think he will, either." "Why is that?" Unconsciously, Mia opened another bag of sour candy, and shared it with everyone. Hansen said, "He treats you like a pet. How would he beat his most beloved pet?" "He treats me like a pet, and even you know about it?" asked Mia. Hansen nodded, "Of course. I love to chat with the housekeeper when I¡¯m at home, so I know about everything at home and at thepany. I also heard that Andre, because of one sentence from you, decided to coborate with the despised Richard Co." "That¡¯s because he let me do whatever I wanted," said Mia. "Why doesn¡¯t he let us do whatever we want, but only lets you? Isn¡¯t it because he spoils you?" Hansen asked a question that made everyone start to ponder. The sour candy in Mia¡¯s mouth didn''t taste good anymore. She started pondering Hansen''s words. Could it be? "Mr. Andre, what are you doing, standing here?" The question from the servant made the three people in the living room who were secretly eating snacks freeze as if they had been petrified. It was as if their hearts had suddenly stopped beating. All three of them looked in the same direction. Then Andre slowly walked out from behind the pir,ing into everyone''s field of vision. None of them said a word. Andre seemed to be smiling, but his eyes were full of threat. "You guys are eating pretty well," he said. The three were stunned. Then, they said in unison, "This is what Mia bought." Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. "Honey, I didn''t buy this." "Andre, I only ate one." After saying that, the three of them exchanged nces. They could sneak snacks together, but they couldn''t share responsibility. Andre sat on the sofa. He picked up the sour candy wrapper from the ground, "Who started this?" Without hesitation, Leo and Hansen pointed at the girl next to them. Mia looked at the two of them. She opened her mouth, showing her teeth, as if she wanted to bite them. Andre stood up from the sofa, "Come to the study with me." Mia said to Leo, "Go on, he''s calling you." And just then, she suddenly had her arm grabbed by a man. "Hey, honey, why are you grabbing me? I know how to walk." Andre took his wife to the study. As soon as Mia entered, she started to find new topics. She praised Andre''s study, "Wow, your study is all ck, so cool~" Even though she didn''t like ck. "Wow, there are so many books on your bookshelf! My husband is really knowledgeable." Andre leaned back in his chair, one hand casually resting on the table, watching her awkward "Go on," said Andre. Mia bit her lip. She lowered her head. What was toe woulde. "I''m sorry, I was wrong." "Tell me where you went wrong." Mr. Cedillo treated his wife like a subordinate. His questioning was very oppressive. Mia had never experienced such a moment. She was scared. "I shouldn''t have made you angry; I shouldn''t have eaten sour candy when my stomach was ufortable; I shouldn''t have brought your father to snack so soon after he was discharged from the hospital. But, honey, I was really careful! I washed the sour candies that your dad ate with water. It¡¯s okay for him to eat a little~" Andre asked her, "Anything else?" She said, "No more." Andre: "Do you need me to say it for you?" Mia thought about it, then nodded, "Then you say it. I don''t think I''ve done anything else wrong." It seemed that she was suddenly not afraid of Andre. "Have you had ice cream today?" Mia shook her head. Andre asked again, "You really haven¡¯t had any of it?" Mia shook her head again. Mr. Cedillo asked her for the third time, "Do you need me to show evidence before you admit?" Mia frowned. She really hadn¡¯t eaten any ice cream. "Honey, eating sour candy is my fault, but don''t falsely use me. Although I really wanted to eat ice cream today, I justy on the freezer at the supermarket entrance and watched for ten minutes. I said I didn¡¯t eat, then I really didn¡¯t eat. Since I promised you, I will keep my promise, even if I want to eat, I won¡¯t." Andre originally just wanted to scare her. He didn''t expect her to really not eat. And because of his distrust, she was now angry too. Even though it had been her fault in the beginning, Mr. Cedillo now felt somewhat guilty. "Alright. I misunderstood you." "You should apologize!" she said. Mia''s courage seemed to have grown a lot recently, perhaps because of Andre''s pampering, which made her temperamental. Andre gently touched his nose. His tone softened, "I''m sorry, I shouldn''t have distrusted you." "Hmph, even if you apologize, I am not forgiving you!" With that, Mia strutted out of the study room, head held high. Andre was confused. The tables seemed to have turned. Wasn''t he the one who was supposed to be lecturing her? Back in the living room, Leo pulled Mia aside and asked, "How did he punish you?" Hansen also leaned in curiously, all ears for some juicy gossip. Mia said, "He just apologized. We''re married after all. We can''t really go all out and have a fight." Chapter 110 Chapter 110 Hansen was puzzled, "Isn''t Andre usually pretty strict? You just apologized and that''s it?" Leo was just as confused, "Didn''t he give you any other punishment?" Mia: "He apologized to me, why would he punish me?" "What? He apologized to you!" Hansen eximed in surprise. What was going on? Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Hadn''t she messed up? Why would Andre apologize to her? Mia nodded, "Yes. He falsely used me of sneaking ice cream at school, so I made him apologize. He did apologize, but I didn''t forgive him, and then I just walked out." The two guys beside her were left speechless. Leo knew Mia well. He figured she had a bad memory, probably couldn''t remember so many things. So, he reminded her, "Didn''t you forget that you were the one who went to apologize? We were sneaking snacks, got caught, and then you were taken to his study." Now it was Mia''s turn to be shocked. Right! She was the one who went to apologize! So, what she just did. Mia finally recalled. She looked at Leo with a frown, mumbling, "What should I do? I really lost my temper with him earlier." Leo patted Mia on the shoulder and said solemnly, "For the sake of our long-standing friendship, I''ll do my best to help you. I''ll pick out the best coffin for you and give you a proper burial." Mia turned to Hansen, "Hansen, help me. I was confused just now. I don''t even know why I suddenly got angry and argued with him. What should I do?" Hansen avoided her gaze and suggested, "You should take the initiative to apologize, maybe you''ll get off lightly." "I''m scared." Mia shrank back. Thinking of Andre''s decisive and strict attitude towards his subordinates, she was afraid she would get scolded like hell. But Leo pushed her shoulder and encouraged her, "Go, go! On the anniversary of your death every year, I''ll bring flowers to visit you." "Leo, stop pushing me!" Leo had already pushed her to the door of Andre''s study. Then, he and Hansen quickly retreated, moving away from there. Mia was speechless. Hansen and Leo waved at Mia simultaneously, signaling her to go in. With no other choice, Mia braced herself, mentally prepared, and knocked on the door. Knock, knock. No response. Mia cracked the door open a bit and saw the expressionless man inside. She was a bit scared. She mustered up the courage to open the door, walked in and gently closed it behind her. She slowly moved in front of Andre. Her head down, her hands tightly clenched, she apologized in a small voice, "Honey, I''m sorry. I didn''t know my ce earlier. I was wrong again." Andre was in a good mood. He looked up at his wife, "Weren''t you very angry just now? Why are you apologizing now?" Mia shook her head, "No, no, no, I''m not angry." Andre told her, "Your apology is insincere. I don''t ept it." "Honey~" She looked up at him, her voice coquettish, "I know I was wrong. You can give me a lecture. But you''re not going to hit me, are you?" Andre sneered, "Hit you? Wouldn''t that make me a domestic abuser?" Mia nodded, "Yeah, honey, so I don''t think you cany a hand on me. I''m still young, I need your patient guidance. Sometimes, I''m still quite childish. If I make a mistake, but realize it, you should give me a chance to correct it." Andre looked at her, "What if I don''t want to give it?" "Honey, give me a chance. Please~" Mia came to his desk, grabbed his hand and acted spoiled, "I promise, I will absolutely refrain from any snacks when I''m sick; I also promise, I will definitely listen to you, no arguing, no backtalking, no upsetting you; I also vow I will never be unreasonable, throw tantrums, or badmouth you behind your back, alright? Honey, please~" Andre was still as cold as ice. He picked up a sheet of A4 paper from the printer next to him and ced his pen on the table. Then, he turned to look at his wife beside him, "Go write a pledge." "What?" Andre: "Write a pledge and stick it on the bedroom wall to remind you to keep your promises every day." "It''s not necessary. I''ll remember it in my heart." Mia tried to negotiate. Andre shed a cunning smile, "No." Mia bit her tongue with regret. If she had known it woulde to this, she would''ve said less. She still looked unwilling. Andre touched her hand and looked at her. "Are you going to write?" Mia pouted, "Honey, writing a pledge is so humiliating." Andre: "Then tell me something I want to hear. As long as I''m satisfied, I''ll let this one slide." Mia instantly understood. He just wanted to beplimented! She had tons of ttering phrases in her head. "Honey, you''re so handsome." Andre shook his head. Mia tried again, "Honey, you''re the Prince Charming in the hearts of all young girls around the world." Andre continued to shake his head. Mia: "Honey, you''re a charming and wealthy gentleman, and so handsome. I''m so lucky to have married you!" Andre summed up his wife''s ttery, "Yourpliments are not sincere. Continue!" Mia stuck out her tongue, "honey, what do you want to hear?" "Think for yourself. If you can''t think of anything, write the pledge." Mia was troubled. What should she say to make her husband happy? "How about I meow for you?" she asked tentatively. After all, he always treated her like a little kitten. Andre pulled her onto hisp, lightly flicked her forehead. "Keep your bad ideas to yourself." "Okay." Mia lowered her head, looking at the nk paper. Was she really going to write a pledge? Mia was silent for five minutes, then suddenly, she asked in a low voice, "Honey, if I say I like you, would you want to hear it?" Her voice was very soft, but Andre heard every word clearly. Her voice was so soft that it went straight to his heart. That kind of softness made his whole body feel rxed andfortable. It was a feeling he had never experienced before. He swallowed and looked at the girl in his arms, her ears blushing. Mia''s face was as red as if it were bleeding. She muttered to herself, "So, you don''t like hearing that either." Just as she was about to throw in the towel, ready to pen down a promissory note, the paper on the table was yanked away suddenly. And the pen in her hand was snatched too. "Huh?" Andre scooped her up. Mia froze in his arms, "My love?" Andre said, "I''m good now." Chapter 111 Chapter 111 Having said that, he put down Mia, took her hand, and left the room. Outside, Hansen and Leo were still waiting. But she came out safe and sound. ¡°How''d it go?¡± asked Hansen. Mia blinked, ¡°All is well.¡± ¡°What did Andre say?¡± asked Leo. Mia shook her head, ¡°He didn¡¯t utter a word, nor did he punish me.¡± Leo asked again, ¡°What did you say?¡± Mia answered, ¡°I told him, I like him.¡± Both Leo and Hansen were shocked. Indeed, pretty people with sweet tongues always had it easy. Mia returned to the bedroom with her husband. She tentatively asked, ¡°Honey, did you hear what I said just now?¡± The man chuckled, feigning confusion, ¡°What was that again?¡± Mia guessed he had heard, ¡°Ah, never mind.¡± Andre smirked, ¡°Remember your promise. If you misbehave again, I''ll really have to punish you.¡± ¡°Oh, I got it.¡± With Andre''s warning, Mia was very obedient in the days that followed. Every day after school, she would tell him, ¡°Honey, I was a good girl today, I didn¡¯t snack or go to the Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. supermarket.¡± Andre wouldugh and praise her, ¡°Well done.¡± Whenever Andre had a social engagement, he would call Mia in advance and say, ¡°Don¡¯t wait up for dinner tonight. I''ve got a dinner date.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t lock the door then. Drink less ande home early.¡± Whenever Andre returned home from his social engagements, Mia in bed would already be asleep, but there was always a light left on in the bedroom for him. Before she knew it, Mia had been in school for over a month. She hade to think of the Cedillo Mansion as her home, and no longer felt the sense of rejection. After living here for a while, she found that everyone in the Cedillo family was quite lovable. She used to think that Hansen was serious and old-fashioned, but sheter discovered that Hansen was actually a yful old man. His mentality was like that of a child. She often sat down with him to y cards, snack, and gossip. Leo used to be a bully at home, but since Andre and she moved into the Cedillo Mansion, he had be a well-behavedmb. Naomi was simple and straightforward and treated everyone with sincerity. Since the misunderstanding between her and Mia had been cleared up, Naomi and she had got on better and better. She even regarded Mia as her own daughter. She often said, ¡°Mia, if you weren¡¯t Andre''s wife, I''d want to adopt you as my daughter.¡± Upon hearing that, Andre immediately took Mia away. Bruce Cedillo spoke little. Perhaps that was his personality. But he was very indulgent with everyone at home. Sometimes, when Mia angered Andre, she would hide in Naomi''s room for protection. Bruce would go to calm his angry brother. If Naomi became emotionally upset over something, he wouldfort his wife and make her feel better. When Leo was punished by Andre for doing something wrong, Bruce would tell him, ¡°Serves you right.¡± Hansen was stubborn. Whenever he and Andre shed, Bruce would always mediate. Of course, Mia''s favorite was still her husband. He would take her to the Majestic Dining Enve for dinner, apany her home, give her bags, and hold her every night. Every day, as soon as she saw Andre, her mood would improve greatly. One day, when she was at school, Andre suddenly called her, ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up after school today, okay?¡± ¡°No. I''m the school beauty now, and I''m getting attention. If you show up, our rtionship will be exposed.¡± Andre chuckled, ¡°So, you''re embarrassed by me?¡± ¡°Why put it so bluntly? As long as you understand,¡± Miaughed. Barbara caught sight of her secret phone call with Andre. Mia was grinning from ear to ear, ¡°I got to go. I¡¯ve got ss in a bit. Bye.¡± She hung up and continued smiling at her phone screen. In a while, she called someone else. She excitedly said, e secretly, don¡¯t let my husband find out, otherwise I won¡¯t be able to exin it to him.¡± ¡°Right, park your car under the third tree outside the west gate, and wait for me there.¡± ¡°I just lied to my husband that I have ss. He didn''t suspect a thing.¡± Ever since Barbara found out that Mia married Andre, she had been suppressing herself. She tried to please Mia against her will, but Mia ignored her. Then, she tried to seduce Leo. She deliberately acted weak and cried in front of Leo, hoping to evoke his sympathy and affection. However, Leo was clueless about the fact that she was trying to seduce him, ¡°Are you sick?¡± He scolded Barbara and avoided her ever since. Jade was more straightforward. She was spoiled and always spoke her mind, so her words were even more outrageous than Mia''s. ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t this the young miss of the Marshal Group side branch who was kept by a thug, had an indecent video leaked, paid people to attack my friend, and got exposed?¡± Her words revealed the truth that Barbara desperately wanted to hide. And her voice was loud, clearly intending to embarrass Barbara. From then on, Barbara gave up the idea of approaching them. She began to observe them constantly, hoping to find their ws andpletely cover up her past. Finally, she saw an opportunity. Mia lied to her husband! It was after school, but she lied to her husband that she had sster and was secretly going to meet another man. Barbaraughed, ¡°Interesting! I wonder what kind of ss you''re going to have!¡± Barbara was not stupid. She would never openly reveal the fact that Mia was married. If her husband was a useless thug, that would be one thing. However, her husband was a tycoon in Eldoria''s business circle, a person often mentioned in their courses! If she revealed that Mia was married to Andre, Mia''s poprity would surely soar! She would never do such a stupid thing that would benefit others at her own expense. The school was crowded. Mia didn''t even realize she was being followed. She returned to the ssroom and asked Jade, ¡°Are you sure you''re noting?¡± Jade shook her head, ¡°My brother is getting off work early today. I''m going shopping with him for clothes.¡± Leo scoffed at her, "Every time you go shopping with Chad Byrne, you end up buying skirts for yourself." "Hmph, he doesn''t mind me spending his money, who are you to judge?" Mia turned to Leo again, "Are youing or not? Hansen is waiting for us under the third tree at the west gate." Leo shook his head, "Nah, I''m not going. No matter what, it''s always me picking up the tab. I may as well just go home." Mia said, "This time I''m paying." "I don''t buy that." "Seriously! Andre said he''ll reimburse me for whatever I spend." Chapter 112 Chapter 112 Leo pointed excitedly out of the window as if that was where Mia was headed, "When have you ever seen a street food vendor give you a receipt? And, you forgot, you''re doing this behind Andre''s back! How dare you ask him to reimburse you for this?" Mia was speechless. Jadeughed heartily and pped the table, "Mia, you''re going to go broke." Leo thought he was very clever. No way he was going! So, after school, the trio went their separate ways. Mia, with her backpack on, bounced out of the west gate. She saw a clean-dressed old man standing outside; his hair was already white, but he was in high spirits. He was enjoying the scenery outside Havenbrook University with his hands behind his back. The students passing by him all seemed energetic. The old man nodded in satisfaction, "These are Mia''s ssmates! Everyone is handsome." "It''s so sunny today, why are you standing outside? Go in," Mia opened the car door, pulled Hansen''s arm, and got him into the minivan. Then she took off her backpack, put it in the car, and climbed in, "Leo is stingy, so he''s noting with us." As expected, Hansen cursed his grandson, "Penny pincher! We give him hundreds of thousands a month for pocket money, but he can¡¯t even spend a few dors on me. Mia, tell Andre to cut off his allowance when you go back, teach him a lesson." "Okay." Unbeknownst to the people in the car, a cell phone camera was pointed at them at the ce they had just passed by. Hansen had long wanted Mia to take him to the street food near Havenbrook University. When Hansen was in the hospital, Mia agreed to cheer him up. Today, the sun was shining brightly, and the weather was clear. It was a great day to go out. So, she and Hansen agreed to go that day. Hansen was very excited toe to the ce Mia mentioned. The two left quietly. Behind them, a taxi followed. When they got to the eating ce, Mia pointed to the slightly rundown shops around and introduced them to Hansen, "Although their storefronts are unimpressive, these are all delicious foods approved by generations of Havenbrook University students. If they weren''t good, they couldn''t havested till now." Hansen looked around and was very pleased with the shabbiness there. "It''s just like Havenbrook forty years ago; I like it. It feels like going back to the good old days." Hansen had his hands behind his back, like a touring leader. The difference was that Hansen was extremely satisfied with the shabbiness he saw around him. "Mia, which one are we going to eat at?" Hansen asked. Mia pointed to an Indian snack shop not far ahead, "I highly rmend that one." Hansen happily followed her to the restaurant. They were photographed by people again. When they were having a good meal, Mia''s phone rang. She saw the caller ID, and her heart skipped a beat. "Mia, who is it?" Hansen looked at her phone screen and asked curiously, "Who''s Tiger?" Mia immediately took off her disposable gloves, quickly rinsed her mouth with a sip of water, cleared her throat, then slid the answer button, put the phone to her ear, and whispered, "Hello." Hansen watched her talk in that pleasing tone, very curious of who that was! He was about to ask, but Mia immediately called out, "Husband what''s up?" Tiger was Andre? Hansen was confused. What was that weird nickname? But he wisely chose not to disturb. After all, what they were doing was done behind Andre''s back. Mr. Cedillo on the phone was in a good mood. He asked in a low voice, "What are you doing?" "I''m in ss." Mr. Cedillo was surprised, "Why is it so noisy around you?" Mia immediately hid under the table and answered, "Ah, that''s because we''re discussing. Where are you?" "Working overtime at thepany." "Oh!" Mia breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°That''s good.¡± A waiter saw Mia squatting on the ground, thinking she was picking up utensils, and was about to ask. Hansen was scared and immediately stood up, stopped the waiter, and made a "shush" gesture. The waiter was confused. Hansen mouthed, "She''s on the phone." The waiter nodded, made an "ok" gesture, and mouthed back to Hansen, ¡°Got it!¡± The strange actions of an old man and a young person in the restaurant attracted the attention of the people around. Everyone was confused by what the two were doing. Andre asked, "When do you get off school?" "Ah, that depends on when the teacher ends the ss, ah, honey, I can''t talk to you anymore. The teacher is about to start the lesson. Bye! Love you." She kissed the phone, then quickly hung up. Mia climbed out from under the table. She let out a long breath, "That scared me." "How is it? He didn''t suspect anything, did he?" Hansen asked curiously. Mia shook her head, "Don''t worry, I''m a great actress, he won''t find out." Mia was very serious about what she did. Even though she knew her husband was working overtime at thepany, she was still worried about Leo, "Can''t let Leo get home early, otherwise it''ll blow our Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. cover." She and Leo were in the same ss. Why could Leo go home early while she was still in ss? That was obviously a lie. So, she called Leo. In a car not far away, two handsome men were sitting. They were staring at a shop in the snack street. To be precise, they were staring at a certain person in that shop. The man in the driver''s seat was none other than the one often seen on financial channels and frequently found in business textbooks. Next to him was a young man with a backpack. He asked, "Aren''t you going to catch your wife and Grandpa?" Andre remembered the "love you" Mia said before hanging up. He had lost his temper. Mr. Cedillo, who had no bottom line, shook his head, still staring at the girl in the Indian snack shop, and said, "That''s not my wife. My wife is in ss." Leo really didn''t know if that person was crazy or not! Even though he had already busted their lies; he still let them continue the act. "Married people are just so dumb!" Leo thought to himself. Suddenly, his phone rang. Seeing the caller ID, he said, "Your wife who''s supposed to be in ss is calling me." "Put it on speaker," Mr. Cedillo turned to look at Leo''s phone. Leo picked up the call, "Hey, what''s up?" "Leo, you absolutely cannot go home! Find a ce to grab a coffee or something to eat," Mia said in a rush, "Andre is doing overtime at work. If he gets home before me and finds you there without me, he''ll definitely get suspicious." Chapter 113 Chapter 113 Leo nced at Andre sitting next to him. His wife was keeping secrets from him, but he was still wearing a smile, seemingly in a good mood. "Hey, Leo? Leo! Are you listening?" Without waiting for his response, Mia continued, "Where are you now?" Leo said, "I heard you. I''m not home yet." "Good. Don''t go home." Andre nodded at Leo. Leo got the message. He agreed, "Okay, I won''t go home. But be careful." "What do you mean?" Leo had already hung up. He looked at Andre and asked, "Why are you so happy?" "She hides things from me, does that mean she''s afraid of me?" Andre spected. Leo nodded, "Is that why you''re happy?" Andre turned his gaze to his wife in the restaurant. A faint smile appeared on his lips, "If she''s afraid of me, it means she cares about me." She cared about him, of course, he would be happy. Inside the car, Leo couldn''tprehend that bizarre sense of satisfaction married people had. He felt goosebumps all over. Back in the restaurant, Mia was still puzzled, "Leo just told me to be careful. I feel like he''s trying to tell me something. Did Andre already find out?" Hansen waved his hand dismissively, "You''re overthinking. Leo couldn''t possibly have made it home even if he drove, so he definitely hasn''t met Andre." Mia nodded. She mused while munching on her food, "But why is my heart beating so fast?" "He''s probably just jealous that we''re enjoying delicious food without him. This kid has some character issues." Hansen happily took another bite of his cake and was thinking that there was nothing that delicious at home. It seemed there were benefits to hanging out more with Mia. Mia nodded again, feeling what Hansen said made sense. "Even if Leo drove from the university, it will take him at least half an hour. And he didn''t drive today, so he definitely hasn''t reached home yet. Andre is also working overtime at the office. They haven''t met." Hansen nodded, "Yes, yes, exactly. Now, eat up. We''ll order another of theseter." The two continued eating in the restaurant, while the two in the car continued watching. "Why did you suddenlye to school today?" Havenbrook University had three gates. Mia and Hansen met at the west gate. Jade went to the east gate to find her brother. Leo was heading to the nearest south gate, nning to grab a taxi to the arcade. As he was about to hail a taxi, a familiar Rolls-Royce GHOST pulled up in front of him. The car window rolled down. Andremanded from inside the car, "Get in." Leo was surprised, "what are you doing here?" He hopped into the car and buckled his seatbelt. Andre knocked on Leo''s forehead, "Why are you skipping school?" Leo was wrongfully used. He defended himself passionately, "I didn''t skip school." At that time, Andre had just spoken to Mia on the phone. She told him that they had ss, but Leo said that they didn''t. "Here''s our schedule. You can see for yourself," Leo handed him the most convincing evidence. Andre looked at the schedule, then frowned. His wife actually lied to him! "Where''s Mia?" he asked. Leo suddenly remembered Mia''s n. He immediately regretted what he had just said, "She might be taking extra lessons at the school." "You have onest chance," Andre''s eyes threatened Leo, "Where is she?" Leo didn''t want to betray his friend, "She''s really in ss." "Yourst dance teacher told me you''re not suitable for Latin dance. How about I switch you to ballet?" The moment Andre finished his sentence; Leo quickly blurted out, "She and Grandpa are secretly going to the snack street for some Indian food today. We often go there to eat. She even wanted me to At that point, Leo''s consideration was not about friendship, but about self-preservation! He gave a very detailed ount, even mentioning the location to Andre. He emphasized, "She and Grandpa nned thisst week. They knew you had a meeting at the office today and would be too busy toe home for dinner, so they chose to go today." Andre smirked. So that was how it was. He had been thinking about her all afternoon and decided to personally pick her up from school as a surprise. He even nned to take her to Majestic Dining Enve for dinner. Turned out she was only thinking about her own happiness! She even lied to him. If he hadn''t bumped into Leo, he would have been deceived by her. Andre drove to the Indian restaurant as directed by Leo. And that led to the events mentioned earlier. However long Mia ate, Andre kept on watching her. Eventually, Andre''s phone rang. He answered, "yeah, I''ll handle this once I get to the office." He ended the call and drove off. He dropped Leo off at a junction close to home, "Walk home yourself. Don''t mention anything about today to her." Leo nodded. He got out of the car and watched Andre drive off. When Mia returned home, Andre was indeed not home. She and Hansen high-fived in triumph, "We did it!" Leo on the couch shook his head at their jubnt disy. They had no idea what was about to happen. Mia went upstairs to shower. She washed off the spicy food odor, sprayed on Andre''s favorite perfume, and prepared herself for her husband''s return. Late at night, Andre returned home. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Mia greeted Andre with a beaming smile. Upon seeing him, her eyes lit up in joy. Andre chuckled as he changed his shoes, "You''re that happy to see me?" Mia nodded, "You''re my husband, of course, I''m happy to see you." "Why didn''t you want me to pick you up from school then?" After a satisfying meal, Mia''s words were as sweet as sugar. They touched a man''s heart directly, "My husband is too handsome, I''m afraid others will be jealous. My husband is too rich, I''m afraid others will envy him. My husband is too good, I can''t bear to let others see him." Leo on the side couldn''t control hisughter. He never knew Mia''s words could be so sweet, so good at coaxing people. The guy was in high spirits, hugging her waist and asking, "Did you have a tough time in ss this afternoon?" With thick skin, Mia nodded, "It was really hard. I had four sses this afternoon. My wrist hurts from all the writing." Andre thought to himself, if it wasn''t for the fact that he saw her happily eating that afternoon with his own eyes, he would have been tricked by her again. "How about I give you a massage?" Mia nodded, "Sure!" Leo somehow found a stool. He sat at the door, looking forward to seeing Andre scold his wife! However, he waited for a long time, but Andre didn''t criticize Mia at all. Chapter 114 Chapter 114 It was as if he didn''t see anything that afternoon. Fresh out of the shower, Hansen had lost the scent of the food alley, only the aroma of the food was still lingering in his mouth. He was in high spirits and started shooting the breeze with his son and daughter-inw, "Andre, what''s Mia''s nickname on your phone?" "Kittemia." "Ha! You two are a unique couple. Most people use ''hubby'' or ''wifey'' as nicknames. And you guys go with ''Kittemia'' and ''Tiger'', how quirky." Andre looked at Mia, who was glued to his arm, and grinned, "I''m Tiger?" Mia replied, "You''re known as the king of the business world. And the king of the jungle is the tiger, so hubby, do you like the nickname I gave you?" Andre replied, "I prefer ''hubby'' as a nickname." "Then you got to change mine to ''wifey''!" Mia whined, clinging to his arm. She was practically crawling into Andre''s arms. Andre gently touched his wife''s nose and chuckled, "Such a child." Hansen thought to himself, ¡°Are my son and daughter-inw showing off their love to me?¡± Leo thought, ¡°Why isn''t Andre hitting Mia?¡± It was gettingte. Andre, with Mia in his arms, retreated to their bedroom. After locking the door, Andre took off his coat. Mia hung it up. As she was tidying his clothes, Andre suddenly wrapped his arms around her from behind. He bent down and whispered into her ear. His breath enveloped Mia. In a deep voice, he asked her, "Mia, have you ever lied to me?" Upon being held, Mia tensed up. The warmth in her ears made her face instantly blush. She felt ufortable. Had she lied to him? Of course, she had. Wasn''t it about what happened that afternoon? At that moment, she kept quiet. Andre had her turn around. Looking at that distresseddy, he asked again: "Did you lie to me?" Mia shut her mouth and slowly nodded. A smile spread across the man''s face. That was all he needed. "About the elevator incidentst time, I already know. You don''t have to feel guilty." Mia looked up in surprise. Andre deliberately didn''t expose her lie from that afternoon, "You need to behave from now on. But, whatever you do, I''ll forgive you," That included lying to him. Andre spoke too soon and was too absolute. Who knew, a few dayster, his words would piss himself off to the brink of death! He went to take a shower. Mia let out a sigh of relief, murmuring, ¡°One shall never do things that weigh on their conscience, or else they''ll always feel restless.¡± Late into the night, Andre was once again teasing his pure and lovely wife. More precisely, Mia started it that time. Post-shower Andre habitually sat on the bed reading something. The "Kittemia" who usually nestled against his arm to sleep began to feel ufortable. She couldn''t fall asleep, so she tossed and turned in bed. In the end, she scooted to Andre''s side, grabbed his hand, and forcibly took away the book he was reading. "Dear, stop reading. This book isn''t interesting. Let''s sleep." Andre looked down at her, "Do you want me to hold you to sleep?" Mia nodded, "Aren''t I warmer than this book?" In that case, Andre put down his book. After all, with her by his side fussing like that, he was in no mood to continue reading. He turned off the bedsidemp. The bedroom was plunged into darkness. Mia lifted her head. Andre dropped his arm. She rolled over into Andre''s arms. The bed wasrge, but they only upied a small part. "Do you know how a tiger treats a kitten?" Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. Mia shook her head in his arms, "I don''t know." "Eats it," Andre suddenly rolled over, pinned her underneath him, and started unbuttoning her pajamas, "Just like this." He subtly indicated his intentions to Mia. All he needed was her agreement, and things could smoothly proceed. But his innocent wife seemed to have missed his insinuation. Mia burst into giggles underneath him. Herughter was clear and melodious, like a string of beautiful notes, or the crisp chime of crystal collision. "Haha, dear, you''re not a real tiger! Even if you and I were a tiger and a kitten, I would still be your wife. You wouldn''t eat me, or else you wouldn''t have a wife, right?" Andre chuckled. He leaned in and kissed her. She only understood the literal meaning of his words. "Mia, being a tiger''s wife, means having tiger cubs for him. Do you understand?" Mia frowned and objected, "That won''t work. A cat''s belly is too small to fit tiger cubs." "How would you know if you don''t try?" "No need to try. I''ve seen it in nature documentaries. If a cat gave birth to tiger cubs, she wouldn''t even be able to nurse them." Andre said, "We can hire a wet nurse." "That''s even worse. I''d rather let my child drink form than another woman''s breast milk." After saying this, Mia froze. The man above herughed. It seemed his innocent wife understood his intentions now. She was just too shy to say it. Hearing hisughter, Mia bashfully pped him, "Get up, stop pinning me down." Andre ced his hand on her back, pulling her closer, then leaned down to kiss her lips again. Mia blushed, pping him a few more times before she felt satisfied. While she was still enjoying the sweetness of love; she was unaware that a conspiracy about her was quietly brewing on the school forum. "Shocking! School beauty kept by old man." "Havenbrook University''s school beauty on a date with a sugar daddy." "Sordid affairs of the school beauty!" In the hot posts on the forum, there were photos as evidence. There were photos of her helping Hansen into the car, photos of them dining at the restaurant, and even a video of Mia teaching Hansen how to eat Indian snacks. Some people even turned the photos intoics to increase clicks and uploaded them to the online forum for everyone to see. At night, theseizens were most active. Until 3 am, the incident was still escting. In the dorms, Havenbrook University students were all up, clutching their phones and alerting their friends about the incident, "Check the forum! There are photos and videos. The school beauty is a sugar baby!" "Snap out of it, dude! Haven''t you had a crush on Mia forever? This post is going to knock your socks off. She''s not only got something going on with the campus hunk, but she''s also mixed up with some old geezer." "I''m from a different school. I heard there''s some juicy scandal about Havenbrook University''s campus queen?" The wholement section was just a bunch of popcorn munchers enjoying the drama. Chapter 115 Chapter 115 The school forum was practically flooded with over a hundred posts about Mia allegedly being a sugar baby. The top three posts alone had racked up over thirty thousandments in just three hours. The saga had even caught the attention of outsiders, leading to a server crash due to overwhelming traffic. Someone had the audacity to screenshot the initial post and spread it on other tforms beyond the forum. Even the faculty at Havenbrook University were keeping tabs on the drama. Mia''s scandal had sessfully overshadowed Barbara''s past. Barbara, watching her masterpiece unfold, let out a satisfied, spine-chillingugh. Some ssmates who didn''t believe Mia could do such a thing called herte at night, hoping she''d clear up the rumors. At four in the morning, Mia''s phone rang. She was dreaming in Andre''s arms. Originally, she had been mad at him for kissing her again, so she had rolled over to the other side of the bed with a pillow. However, she unknowingly ended up back in his arms after falling asleep. Annoyed by the ringtone, she covered her ears and whined, "Honey, ugh, answer it." Andre also heard it. He picked up his wife''s phone, nced at it, and then answered, "Hello?" The ssmate on the other end was taken aback! She heard a man''s voiceing from Mia''s phone. She was speechless. She had initially believed in Mia''s character, but now she was convinced the rumors were true. She hung up in a hurry. Andre frowned slightly. The next day, Mia arrived at school in Leo''s car. As soon as she got out, she was met with strange looks from people around her. Some even whipped out their phones to snap pictures of her and Leo. The forum was still aze with debates. "Our school hunk probably doesn''t know what kind of woman his girlfriend really is." "I genuinely feel bad for Leo. Why will he fall for Mia?" "Someone needs to save Leo! Don''t let him be blinded by Mia''s beauty!" Leo was the school hunk of Havenbrook University. As for how he earned that title, even he had no clue. Since Mia and Leo were seen together every day, going to and from school and having lunch, everyone naturally assumed they were a couple. As for Jade, people had all sorts of theories. "Leo, don''t you think something''s off?" Mia asked, furrowing her brows. Leo nced at the students passing by, "Definitely something is off!" Just as they were talking, Jade called. "Mia, Leo, check out this post! I don''t know who''s got nothing better to do than to mess with Mia and T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. spread rumors about her." Jade ranted, causing Chad, who was about to give her a ride to school, to chime in, "As a girl, you should watch yournguage." "This is serious! I''m calling the cops! You should help me, too. Someone is ndering my friend." Chad indulgently smiled at her, "Alright, I''ll handle it myself." Prompted by Jade, Mia and Leo quickly returned to the car and logged onto the Havenbrook University forum. The shocking posts, the malicious rumors, and the insults toward her and Hansen, all made Mia clench her fists. Leo, frowning after a look, kept scrolling on his phone. He even checked the original poster''s profile, trying to find out who was spreading the rumors! He soon found out that it was a newly registered ount. Leo put down his phone and said calmly, "We can''t go to school. Let''s go home." "No! If we go home, it will look like we''re admitting to the rumors," Mia put down her phone, her hands shaking with anger, "If I find out who did this, I''ll make them pay!" She also wondered who she had pissed off. Leo took out his phone, "I''ll call Andre." Mia shook her head, "We can''t always rely on him when we have problems. We can''t cause him any trouble." Mia thought for a while. If she went home, she would be admitting to the rumors. If she went to school, there would definitely be amotion. "Why don''t you rify that the man yesterday was your Dad?" Leo suggested. Mia shook her head, "Who will believe that a man of his age is my father? Who will believe that he is my father-inw even if I tell them I''m married? If I tell them my husband is Andre, nobody will believe it! The only way is for Andre toe to school and rify it himself, but that will cause him trouble." Leo retorted, "Well, you can''t say he''s your grandfather, can you?" It had been a while since Miast hit Leo. At that moment, she raised her hand and gave Leo a punch in the head, "Are you an idiot? Hansen can only be my Dad! If I tell outsiders he''s my grandfather, once my identity is revealed in the future, I''ll still be attacked again." Leo rubbed his head, "Andre hit me yesterday, and you hit me today. I should really steer clear of you two." "Andre hit you? When was this?" Realizing he misspoke, Leo quickly corrected himself, "Not yesterday, I got it wrong. It was the day before." Mia didn''t have Andre''s keen perception or his intimidating aura. Lying to her was rtively easy. Not long after, Jade arrived at school. Chad also got out of the car and knocked on Leo''s window to ask Mia, "Do you need help?" "Chad, thanks for the offer, but this is something I''ll have to deal with by myself." Chad understood. He nodded, "Alright, I''ll head to the police station. If you need help, let Jade contact me." Jade clutched Chad''s hand, "You can''t leave! You have to help me talk to the school administrators and get them to take down the posts on the forum." Mia remained calm. Sheforted Jade, "Jade, the more we try to prevent people from discussing this, the worse it may get. Don''t bother Chad with this. I can handle this little issue." Chad nodded at Mia and left. Jade also hopped into Leo''s ride. "So, what''s the game n now? How are you going to handle this mess? Chad confiscated my phonest night before bed, so I only saw all the chatter on the forum this morning." None of them lived on campus, so they didn''t have roommates to give them the heads-upst night. "As for this whole thing with Leo and me, that''s the easiest problem to fix," Mia nced at Leo, then at Jade in the backseat. Both blurted out at the same time, "What are you going to do?" Chapter 116 Chapter 116 Miaughed, "Don''t you two think you look awfully alike? I''ve heard that couples start to look more like each other the longer they''re together. Is that the case with you two?" Both hollered a loud "buzz off!" Jade eximed, "Really, Mia? Jokes at a time like this?" Mia replied seriously, "I''m not joking. You and Leo really do look simr. When I first met you, I thought you were Leo''s long-lost twin sister." Leo retorted, "Bullshit! I''m an only child. Besides, Jade''s only six months older than me, how could my mom have given birth to her?" Mia replied, "I know you two aren''t actually rted, that''s why I never brought it up," Then she added, "If you two publicly announce that you''re a couple, Leo''s bad reputation would be gone. And then, I can clear up the misunderstandings about me." "I don''t give a damn about that reputation. How about you? What are you going to do? I''m telling you; we have gym ss soon. If you step onto the field, hundreds of people will be pointing fingers at you." Mia raised an eyebrow, "Then let''s have your Grandpa show up during our gym ss." "What?!" "You''re nuts!" Her two friends were in shock at Mia''s idea. Mia''s anger was just a momentary reaction when she saw the post. Once she cooled down, she ridiculously false. If she rified the truth, she would still be innocent. "Mia, are you okay?" Jade asked, worried that Mia had lost her mind out of fury. Mia smiled at her, "It''s no big deal. No need to get worked up." "No big deal? You, being the hot topic on the forum is no big deal?" Leo couldn''t understand Mia''s way of thinking. She had always been like that. Regardless of how big the problem was, she''d always brush it off as if it was no big deal. Like that one time when she was beaten up so badly that her wrist almost stopped moving; she endured the pain and called it a "minor issue". And sometimes, she''d make a huge fuss over trivial matters, which could give everyone a headache. For instance, she had a splinter on her hand during the autumn and winter season. Afraid of the pain, she didn''t dare to remove it and made a big scene by going to the hospital for it. People like her were really hard to understand. Mia looked at Leo and asked, "Did this hurt you?" Leo shook his head. "Did it cost you money?" Again, Leo shook his head. "Did it threaten your safety?" Leo shook his head once more. "Did it destabilize the society?" Leo gave in, "Okay, okay, I admit it''s just a minor issue." Mia nodded, "Right. Now let''s go to ss." Leo and Jade were both speechless. As the three of them walked into the ssroom, all the chatter stopped. Over forty people watched them sit in the back row. Mia even cheerfully said to everyone, "Don''t mind us! Continue your discussion. Feel free to speak louder so I can hear too." ssmates were shocked. Mia''s behavior left Leo and Jade speechless. "Mia, you." Mia interrupted Jade, "It''s okay. We''re all ssmates. Aren''t they just discussing who''s my sugar daddy? Continue discussing." After saying that, she put her designer handbag on the table. She gestured to her ssmates, "Look, this bag is priced at $1,800 on the official website. I''m cing it here to provide some more material for your discussion, instead of just guessing about that man''s identity. You can discuss my $1,800 bag, my $300,000 bracelet, or dig deeper into my identity and try to figure out why I''m so rich." The ssroom fell silent. Everyone''s eyes fell on Mia''s handbag and bracelet. They couldn''t believe a bag could cost $1,800 and a bracelet $300,000! Mia''s smirk grew wider. She scanned the room while speaking, noticing that Barbara''s eyes held the most hatred for her. She locked eyes with Barbara. While Mia wasughing, Barbara''s gaze was full of venom. Barbara opened her mouth, "So rich? I guess you''ve been kept by more than one man?" Mia considered this, and then said, "Indeed, I''ve spent money from more than one man." Jade and Leo were stunned. Mia counted on her fingers in a low voice, "My Grandpa''s, my Dad''s, my brother''s, my husband''s," she turned to Leo, "And my nephew''s." In the end, she concluded, "I''ve spent money from five men." Everyone in the ssroom stared in shock at Mia. Jade was the first to react. She seemed to be speaking to Mia, but it was intended for the whole ss to hear. "Mia, I''ve also spent money from several men. My Grandpa''s, my Dad''s, my brother''s, and Leo''s! Wow, I''ve also spent money from four men! Does that mean I''ve been kept by four men?" The ssroom erupted in surprise. Who hadn''t spent their family''s money? Leo chimed in, "Then I''ve spent my Grandma''s, my Mom''s, my aunt''s, and Jade''s. Does that mean I''ve also been kept by four women?" The ssroom fell silent. Barbara signaled her friend next to her. The girl immediately stood up, pointed at Mia and yelled, "You know damn well that your ''kept'' isn''t what we meant! You''re still ying with Leo''s feelings! Shameless! Whore, you''re a disgrace to Havenbrook University!" Mia began tough. No one understood why she wasughing. She said calmly, "Go on." The girl nced at Barbara sitting next to her, Mia''s reaction was not what she had expected. "Did Barbara only teach you these few words? She''s so stingy, not even willing to teach you more insults," Mia spoke calmly, "Want me to teach you how to insult someone? I can also teach you how to smear someone''s reputation on an inte forum. Look, Barbara didn''t teach you any of this." "Mia, what the hell are you talking about!" Barbara stood up furiously, mming the desk and pointing at Mia. Jade and Leo understood the matter at that moment. All that was orchestrated by Barbara. Jade emotionally expressed her thoughts, "Don''t you get what we''re saying? You''re the one being kept by someone else! I bet you''re trying to cover up your own scandal by dragging Mia into it, aren''t you? Isn''t this your usual trick? Why are you imposing your experiences onto Mia? Even if she''s no longer the school beauty, the title won''t pass on to you! "But I got to say, Barbara, you really are something else. I feel like giving you a round of apuse. Because of your shenanigans, Mia is even famous in other schools now. But don''t worry. The elder will be here soon to clear things up for everyone and clear Mia''s name.¡± "But there''s something I just can''t wrap my head around. Why would you post all this stuff in the middle of the night? And why didn''t you have the guts to post it from your own ount? Didn''t you know we were all sleeping? We had to wake up and hunt for who posted those videos and pictures. We''re all wiped out." Mia put a finger to her lips, shushing Jade. She said in a not too loud, not too soft voice, "Jade, as Material ? of N?velDrama.Org. ssmates, we should understand each other''s struggles. Working in a nightclub is tough. She must''ve snuck in the posts while she was working. We should cut some ck for the nightclub staff." Mia''s words were dripping with sarcasm, and Barbara could hardly hold back her fury. "Yes, Mia''s got a point," Jade said, looking at the about-to-explode Barbara, and asked passionately¡¯, "Barbara, you must''ve had a tough night, entertaining guests and catering to their every whim, while also providing entertainment for our school. My apologies. Next time, I hope you can drop some more juicy news. On behalf of the school, we all appreciate you." "You guys are asking for it!" Chapter 117 Chapter 117 Barbara made a dash toward Jade, trying to attack her. But Mia was quick on her feet. She stepped in immediately, grabbed Barbara''s arm andnded a kick in her gut, then skillfully pinned Barbara''s arm to the table andnded a powerful punch to her head. Mia''s movements were smooth and strong, without a hint of hesitation, leaving the entire ssroom stunned. Turned out, Mia could throw punches! The surprise was so overwhelming that nobody noticed Barbara''s cries for help. Eventually, a teacher walked in and put an end to the brawl. Barbara didn''t stand a chance against Mia. Leo was seated between Jade on his left and Mia on his right. He pped for both girls, "Sitting between you two, I feel like a total loser." The fight was so intense that he didn''t get a chance to intervene. Especially Mia, her brawling skills were always a surprise. Leo looked at Mia with a hint of admiration, "If the teacher hadn''t walked in, would you have broken her arm?" Sweet on the outside, hard on the inside. Mia responded in the gentlest voice with the coldest words, "I would." An hourter, an old man showed up on the school field. Apanied by his butler, Hansen arrived at the school''s track field, that time with his ornamental cane. Despite his brisk stride, he still carried the expensive cane as a symbol of his social status. "Butler, what do you think Mia wants me to do here at the school?" Hansen asked. The butler, dressed in a tailcoat, followed closely behind, "She may take you out for a meal again." "Hahaha, if that''s the case, I''m one lucky guy!" Hansen was thrilled at the thought. And that''s precisely what he was hoping for. "I''m truly blessed. Everyone thought that Andre marrying such a young girl would cause trouble in the house but look at us now. Ever since Mia joined our family, we''ve been livingfortably and prosperously," Hansen seemed to have forgotten the initial unpleasantness of their acquaintance. He thought about all the snacks Mia took him to try and felt content, "Ice cream, I used to despise it. Sour sugar, I used to think it was junk food. Ever heard of popping candy? The tiny bits pop in your mouth, it''s quite fascinating! I never knew about these. Where would I find these delicacies without Mia? I''ve lived for so long, if I hadn''t tried these, wouldn''t I have been missing out? Do you know what Indian snacks taste like? Spicy yet aromatic! I''ve never tasted anything like this before. This kid treats me better than my own son!" Hansen showered Mia with praises. The butler could sense the pride in Hansen''s words. "Ms. Mia is not your average girl. She''s unique, always full of creative ideas." "Exactly. Don''t forget who her father-inw is," Hansen boasted, "Andre made the right choice marrying Mia. This young girl changed Naomi''s perception of her, changed my preferences, and even changed Andre''s personality. Have you ever seen Andre smile at anybody? No! But look at him now, ever since he married Mia, he''s been grinning from ear to ear." The more Hansen talked, the more he appreciated Mia. "I wonder what delicious food she''s going to introduce to me today?" Before long, the school bell rang, signaling the end of ss. Mia and Leo walked out of the ssroom and headed to the track field. "Mia, Leo; Hansen is waiting at the track field. You two go ahead. I''ll change and be right there," Jade told them. Mia and Leo arrived at the track field. The old man standing in the center of the field was the most eye-catching. "Isn''t that Grandpa?" Leo pointed at Hansen on the field, "And the butler''s there too." Mia spotted them too. She shouted across the field, "Dad!" Hansen turned around and immediately saw his daughter-inw and grandson. "Hey! Mia, I came to see you," Annoyed by the cane, Hansen held it by the handle and strode towards her confidently. The cane in his hand was like a medieval knight''s sword. While knights often carried their swords on their backs, Hansen''s "sword" was held in his hand. Mia was the center of attention as soon as she appeared. She shouted "Dad" again, instantly drawing all eyes on her. Hansen arrived at Mia''s side, beaming with joy. Leo grinned and called out quietly, "Grandpa." Hansen raised his cane and gave Leo a light tap on his head, "Why are you so quiet? Are you embarrassed by me?" Leo shook his head, rubbing the spot where Hansen had hit him, "Grandpa, you need to clear things up for Mia quickly." T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Hansen was confused. Clear what up? That was when the murmuring started on the field, "Look, isn''t that the old man Mia was out with yesterday?" "Right, that''s him. But how can he be her dad? Isn''t he too old to be her dad?" "Why did the old man hit Leo? Isn''t he Mia''s dad? How is he rted to Leo?" "What if Mia''s real dad is the one in the tailcoat? Maybe the old man is her dad''s boss and to curry favor, he sent his daughter to the old man''s bed?" "Yeah, maybe! Both men turned around when she shouted ''Dad''." Then someone voiced their doubt, "But just now, it was the old man who responded to her and rushed toward her." "You''re so naive! A girl can have many dads. Both biological and sugar daddies." "But the old man is so old, how can he still, you know?" "That''s none of our concern. As long as Mia knows what she''s doing." The gossip spread like wildfire, igniting Mia''s anger. Hansen was equally furious. Turned out, the meal he had with Mia yesterday had been misconstrued and tarnished their reputation! Mia had asked him toe in person to clear her name. She thought those misunderstandings would clear up once they saw Hansen, but they didn''t even let her exin and would rather believe their own spections. Mia strolled up to Barbara, the ringleader of the group who had been throwing shade at her and Hansen. Without uttering a word, she pped Barbara square across the face, "I''m going to teach you a lesson in respect, right here, right now!" "Mia''s throwing punches! She''s lost her cool! We were just spilling the tea and she couldn''t handle the truth. Everyone, jump in! Don''t let her hurt our ssmate." Suddenly, Barbara shouted out in the middle of the yground. The crowd started to pounce on Mia with words and judgment. Chapter 118 Chapter 118 Leo red at Barbara, "You''re really asking for it." He took the walking stick from Hansen and struck Barbara''s head hard. Leo was fuming. Being a man, naturally, his strength was much greater than a woman''s. He used all his might to hit Barbara''s head. In that instant, Barbara felt dizzy, as if she were about to faint. Leo dropped the walking stick. He didn''t care about his reputation or about the so-called rule that men shouldn''t hit women, and he punched Barbara square in the face. "Leo, Jillian Marshal is my cousin! If you hit me, aren''t you afraid of your uncle¡­ Ah!" Before she could finish her sentence, Leo stomped on her face. He was livid. This was the first time people had seen Leo be so violent. The girls could gang up on Mia because she was a girl, but at this point, no one dared stop Leo. The boys also didn''t dare step forward. Leo was too fierce. After being stomped on by Leo, Barbara''s nose started to bleed instantly, and her face was covered in blood. Teachers wanted to stop Leo, but they were loudly stopped by Hansen. He wanted to watch that woman get beaten! The butler had already gone to protect Mia. "Ms. Mia, please take care of yourself." "Step aside. If I don''t tear their mouths apart today, then I''m not Mia." Mia pushed the butler away. She grabbed a girl''s hair, held her neck, and threw her to the ground. Not one of the dozen or so girls was a match for Mia. She was furious and hadpletely lost control. She kept reying the insults they had just thrown at her in her mind when she looked at them. She was a very vengeful person. Mia tore off a chunk of one girl''s hair, causing the other girls to scream in fear. Mia was so cruel! However, for Mia, it was far from over. When Jade appeared in her sports suit, she saw the fight. Like a lightning bolt, she rushed to Mia''s side. "Mia, the blood on your hands?" "It''s not mine." After saying this, Mia set her sights on another girl who had insulted her. "Help! Help!" The girl saw Miaing towards her and screamed for mercy, "I was wrong! I was wrong!" However, Mia didn''t let up. The boys watched Mia''s furious face and didn''t dare step forward. They thought to themselves, wasn''t the school beauty supposed to be delicate? Why was she so fierce and terrifying? The school board was alerted. "Quick, call the police!" Five board members appeared on the track field, along with the principal. When he saw Hansen standing in the center of the field, the principal hurriedly ran up to him to greet him respectfully. Hansen was furious and pped the principal in front of everyone. Everyone was stunned. Mia''s sugar daddy hit the principal? Unbelievable! "Do you know what happened to Mia online?" Hansen asked. The principal apologized, "I handled this badly. Please punish me." "My daughter-inwes to school to study and goes out with me after school, but she''s been stigmatized as being kept! Firing you would be too light of a punishment!" Hansen''s voice echoed across the field. Mia was his daughter-inw? Was he going to fire the principal? The principal kept apologizing, "We¡­ We were preparing to report to Mr. Cedillo. We didn''t know things would escte to this point. Please calm down. We will certainly give Ms. Mia an exnation." The school¡¯s board members quickly came up to check on Mia. They sincerely hoped she was okay; otherwise, their jobs wouldn''t be secure.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. However, when they saw the people beaten by Mia, they stopped in horror. "Ms. Mia..." Hansen saw blood on Mia''s hands and scratches on her arm. He swore at the principal again, "If anything happens to Mia, you will all regret it!" Then he went up, as his heart ached, to check Mia''s hand, "You''ve lost so much blood; it must hurt a lot." "It''s someone else''s blood." " ...Well, it must have hurt a lot when you hit someone, right?" Everyone around was speechless. Shouldn''t the ones being hit feel the most pain? Just as Hansen prepared to take her to the hospital for a checkup, the police suddenly showed up. The leading officer was Chad. "Oh no! My brother!" Jade took advantage of the crowd and slipped away. If he knew she was involved in a fight, she would be in trouble. Chad looked at the familiar fleeing figure on the field, swallowed, and said nothing. He nned to deal with her when he got home. ... At eleven in the morning, Andre was having a meeting in the conference room when Noah rushed in, "Mr. President, you¡¯ve got to hurry to the police station." Andre frowned at his assistant''s rudeness, and he asked in a deep voice, "What happened?" Noah responded, "It''s about Mrs. Cedillo." Andre immediately stood up, "Meeting adjourned." Without exining the follow-up matters, he quickly left the conference room. The senior executives in the meeting room looked at each other. This was the first time they had seen the president so flustered. What happened to the rumored Mrs. Cedillo? Everyone looked at Austin inquisitively because he was the only one who had seen Mrs. Cedillo. Austin once described Mia. "Mrs. Cedillo looks like a child." Unexpectedly, that child-like Mrs. Cedillo hit someone and even sent several people to the hospital. Leo and Mia were arrested. Hansen was worried and went to the police station too. Captain Chad didn''t fear his power. No matter how Hansen threatened, he still took his daughter-inw and grandson away in front of everyone. Luckily, they knew him. At the police station, Mia and Leo were detained. The other students involved in the fight were also locked up. To prevent further conflict, the police separated them. Mia and Leo were locked up together. Mia asked, "Was that messed up look on Barbara your doing?" Leo replied, "Absolutely. There''s one more thing you should know. Barbara''s had stic surgery. Her nose is fake, and she''s got stuff filled in her chin." Mia asked, "Seriously?" Leo replied, "Yep, dead serious. When I pped her, her face clearly deformed right in front of my eyes." Mia gave Leo a thumbs-up, saying, "Because of your good performance this time, I''ll take care of you at home." Leo tossed his hair smugly. Hansen wasn''t locked away. He pulled up a stool and sat outside the detention room, chatting with them. Hansen said, "Mia, you''re not as gentle as I thought. I just found out you have quite the fiery temper." Chapter 119 Chapter 119 Leo pointed at Mia''s face and dered loudly, "Grandpa, I''ve told you guys before, don''t be fooled by her looks. She''s actually super wild." Mia gave Leo a swift kick, then tried to convince Hansen of her true nature, "I''m usually very gentle. Do I not behave at home? This was simply because someone provoked me first, and I fought back. Everyone gets mad, right?" By the end, she was stuttering a bit and clearly feeling guilty. Hansen thought for a moment, then said, "But we don''t get this violent when we''re mad." Scraping someone''s face till it''s bloody and dragging a girl''s mouth across the ground were a bit much. All Mia could say was, "Don''t you think they deserved it?" Hansen pped his thigh in agreement as he remembered the insults those people had thrown, "They totally had iting!" In the adjacent holding cell were another twenty or so students. They had all heard Leo call this old man ¡®Grandpa¡¯ and Mia call him "Dad.¡¯ Wasn''t Mia Leo''s girlfriend? Then, the appearance of a certain man left everyone jaw-dropped. Andre was here. He hade to the police station to pick up his lovely wife. On the way, he had been filled in on everything that had happened at Mia''s school. "Boss, this is why Mrs. Cedillo ended up at the police station." Noah exined during the drive. Andre showed no emotion and just asked, "Is she injured?" "Nope. It''s the others who are injured." "Who''s the main culprit?" "Barbara Marshal." Andre muttered, "The Marshal family again." "Buy Havenbrook University under Mia''s name and make it public." After saying this, Andre got out of the car. Noah understood his meaning. He was going to protect his wife. Andre walked into the police station. "Son, you''re here." Hansen greeted him first. The students in the holding cells were shocked. This old man was the father of the business tycoon, Andre! Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Unbelievable! But there was more. Hansen pointed at Mia in the holding cell and said to Andre, "Your wife was bullied at school and you didn''t even know! What kind of husband are you?!" The room went silent. Someone whispered, "Mia''s married? Her husband is..." Everyone was looking at the man who controlled half of the world''s economy. Andre stood in front of the cell bars, looking at Mia, who was cowering inside. "You got into a fight?" He asked. Mia started bawling. For some reason, hearing Andre''s voice filled her with sorrow. Tears began to stream down her face uncontrobly. She nodded. "Did you win?" He asked again. Mia nodded while crying. It seemed like she was the one who had been bullied. Leo was shocked at how easily she started crying, "Don''t cry. Your husband is here already." Andre didn''t seem to have any intention offorting her. "Why are you crying if you won?" Mia said in a pitiful and somewhat coquettish voice, "I''m afraid you''re mad..." She had caused trouble for her husband again. Mia was afraid that Andre would hate her. Thinking that Andre might hate her made her feel like her heart was breaking, and she couldn''t stop crying. On hearing her cry, Andre wanted nothing more than to take her into his arms. Why would he be mad? He smiled and gestured for Mia toe over, "Come here." Mia shook her head, "I''m scared." Hansen interjected, "Mia, where was this fear when you were fighting earlier? You''re scared now that you see Andre?" Andre''s gaze fell on the marks on her arm, and his eyes became sharp. Rage bubbled up inside him like a cauldron. His fierce gaze made him seem like a ruthless king of the jungle, as he radiated a dangerous bloodlust. Mia was observant. How could she not understand what her husband''s eyes were conveying? She thought Andre was angry with her, so she started crying out loud again in the cell. Leo said helplessly, "Why are you crying again?" "Hubby, I''m sorry." A police officer couldn''t bear to watch anymore. He opened the cell door, letting Mia out. She wouldn''t go. She was afraid Andre would hit her. Leo said, "If you won''t go, I''ll go." The officer pushed Leo into the cell, "Your guarantor hasn''t arrived. You can''t leave." "I..." He pointed at Andre, "This is my uncle." The officer looked at Andre, then at the information in his hand, "Mr. Cedillo is here to bail out his wife. He didn''t say anything about bailing out his nephew." Leo''s heart shattered. Andre''s mind was a mess as he listened to his wife''s sobs. He took the initiative to enter the cell and walked towards Mia. Then, he lovingly wiped away her tears and tried to soften his voice, "Sweetie, stop crying." Mia pouted but stopped crying. Andre lifted her arm to check the marks on it with eyes filled with concern. "Do you hate me now, hubby?" "If I hated you, my heart wouldn''t ache." Mia clung to her husband''s waist and snuggled into his arms. Soon, Naomi and Bruce also arrived. Seeing them, the officer stood up and greeted them respectfully, "Mr. Bruce, Ms. Naomi, what brings you here?" Bruce pointed at Leo, who was still in the cell, "We''re here to bail him out." Leo''s words stunned everyone, "Dad, Mom, save me!" The students were so shocked that they couldn''t speak. What exactly was their rtionship? Upon seeing Mia also there, crying non-stop, Naomi ignored her own son and went straight to check on Mia. "Are you okay, Mia? Why are you crying? Who hit you? Are you hurt? Let me check." Mia clung to Andre tightly, sobbing uncontrobly, "I... I''m fine¡­" Naomi clearly didn''t believe her. Her face was covered in tears; how could she be okay? "Why are you hiding it from me? Why are you making me worry?" Meanwhile, Leo was tugging at Naomi''s sleeve, "Mom, Mom, I''m here." Naomi didn''t even nce at him. She continued to focus on Mia. Andre was hugging Mia and said, "Mia is really okay. She started crying because she felt wronged when she saw me just now. Now she''s just being a drama queen." Naomi was surprised by her behavior and struggled to find a response. Mia, who had stopped crying, nodded and said, "I''m really okay. I won the fight." Chapter 120 Chapter 120 Bruce got the bail sorted out at the police station, and then the six members of the Cedillo family left together. Meanwhile, the 20-something ssmates in the other detention room remained silent. It was all a big misunderstanding. The news they learned today was enough to rock the entire Havenbrook University. Firstly, Mia wasn''t a sugar baby. The old man was her father-inw. Secondly, she was already married, and her husband was the internationally famous Andre. Moreover, Leo wasn''t just a government official''s son; he was also a rich kid. Lastly, the school beauties weren''t lovers but aunt and nephew. Looking back at it, everything on the forum seemed utterly ridiculous. "We''ve been yed." Someone finally voiced the truth. "Ever since Barbara started campaigning for school beauty, she''s been at odds with Mia and even began deliberately smearing her. When her own dark past was exposed, it cleared Mia''s name and allowed her to reim the title of school beauty. This time, it was Barbara who started spreading these rumors, exploiting our jealousy to incite us to attack Mia." "Barbara wanted to use this incident to cover up her own disgraceful past. She almost became a hero for revealing the true face of the school beauty... It''s quite scary when you think about it." "Today, on the sports field, she was the one who started the mess. If we had really hurt Mia today, the Cedillo family would have never forgiven us." ... However, even if Mia hadn''t been hurt, Andre wouldn''t let off those who bullied his wife. Hansen kept praising Mia''s agility, but all Andre felt was heartache. In the car, he spent a long time checking Mia''s hands and arms. When they got home, he took her straight upstairs. Upon entering their bedroom, he locked the door and said, "Take off your clothes." Mia clutched her cor as if to ward off his assault. "Don''t be scared. I just want to check if you have any other injuries." Andre said as he ced his hand over hers. Mia shook her head, "I don''t believe you. You just want to take advantage of me." Just as Andre was about to force her to undress, his phone rang. "Hello?" He was annoyed by Mia. Mia perked up her ears to eavesdrop. Andre pushed her away, saying, "Behave; take off your clothes." "I won¡¯t." Mia was stubborn. Noah was shocked on the other end of the line. "Boss... Why do I have to undress?" "Not you. Continue your report." Noah finally got it. The boss was talking to his wife. "Havenbrook University has been acquired. Barbara is currently receiving treatment at a stic surgery hospital. The other two who were injured by Mrs. Cedillo are out of the emergency room. All the information rted to Mrs. Cedillo on the forum has been deleted. Those who tried to attack Mrs. Cedillo have all been arrested by the police. The school board members are bailing them out." Andre responded briefly. "What should we do next?" Andre ced his hand on Mia and said, "Mia, if you don''t behave, I''ll have to get rough." "Humph, you wouldn''t dare hit me! I''m your wife. You should be taking care of me." She said as she clung tightly to Andre. Noah was d to see that there was someone in this world who could make his boss feel so helpless. Andre was annoyed by Mia. He told Noah, "Expel all those who were involved in the fight. Apart from expelling the three who posted, send them to the police as well. Among those who ndered Mia, send awyer''s letter to the top ten with the most likes. As for those useless school board members, tell them to get lost." "Understood!" Mia looked at her husband. Her nose was a bit sore, but her heart was filled with love. "Darling, I love you so much." When Andre heard this, he was so touched that his heart melted. He looked at his adorable wife, and all he could think of was the image of her being bullied. That day, he put aside his work and stayed at home to keep herpany for the whole afternoon. She never wanted to undress for him to check. In fact, she knew she had hurt her back. She was afraid he would get angry if he saw it. However... "I''m taking a shower! How could youe in without telling me?" Mia was arguing with Andre who had Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. barged into the bathroom. Andre, suppressing his emotions, said, "If I didn''te in, were you nning to keep your back injury a secret?" Mia bit her lip, "I didn''t want you to worry." "Lie down." Andre patted the side of the bed. Mia obedientlyid down on the bed. Andre lifted her nightgown. "Darling, wait... Let me put on some undergarments first." Mia hurriedly stopped him. Andre bluntly said, "I''ve seen it all just now. There¡¯s no need for you to be shy." After saying that, he briskly lifted up his wife''s nightgown and then covered her butt with the quilt. Mia thought about that moment in the bathroom. She was standing naked and didn''t even know where to cover herself. It was all his fault! The thought of that moment made Mia''s face turn crimson. Her back was bruised, so Andre held some ointment in his hand and gently applied it to her. She started to act coy, "Darling, I didn''t even know that I got hit on my back. Can you not be angry?" The more Andre saw, the more his heart ached and the angrier he became. "Get back at them tomorrow." Mia was confused. She turned around, saw his worried eyes, and froze. Andre repeated, "Go to school tomorrow and get revenge for all the injuries you suffered today." Mia weakly said, "I''ll get sent to the police station." "With me around, what are you afraid of?" His wife could not suffer the slightest grievance. Otherwise, it would mean he failed as a man. "Mia, I''m your husband. From the moment I met you, I''ve been responsible for protecting you." Andre''s eyes told her how serious he was. Mia looked at him and forgot how to react. She looked at him with tearful eyes. Andre couldn''t help but push her down and kiss her tender lips. This time, Mia didn''t resist his passion, and her hands naturally wrapped around his neck. At this moment, there was a knock on the door. The couple kissing had to let go of each other as Mia said, "Honey, someone''s here." Andre shot a disgruntled look at the door, asking impatiently, "Who is it?" "Andre, it''s me." Naomi said from outside, "I''m worried about Mia, so I wanna check on her. If I''m not sure she''s okay, I won''t be able to sleep tonight." Mia blinked her big eyes. She and Andre locked eyes; her gaze was twinkling with a gentle light that was utterly captivating. Her eyes were like the brightest stars in the sky. Chapter 121 Chapter 121 "Babe, Naomi''s just worried about me." Andre let go of Mia and got up to open the door. Upon seeing Andre, Naomi expressed her concerns for Mia once more. "Come in, I''m fine." Mia said as she changed into her pajamas and sat on the bed. Naomi walked into Mia''s room and sat on the edge of the bed and to check Mia''s arms, she then asked with concern, "Did your leg get hurt?" Mia stretched out her leg for Naomi to see and replied, "No, don''t worry." "What about your stomach and back? Any problems?" Naomi asked. Mia and Andre exchanged nces, and Andre immediately understood her look. He spoke up to cover for Mia, "I checked Mia when she was showering just now; no injuries." "That''s good, as long as you''re okay. Why did you get into a fight today? I don''t frequent your school''s online forum, so I have no idea what happened." Naomi asked. Mia grabbed Naomi''s hand forfort, "I have no idea why there were so many people all of a sudden, and I just lost my temper and all I could think about was fighting." "You''re still too young and impulsive. If you encounter any problems in the future,e back and tell us. You''re still a kid; how could you possibly handle everything on your own?" Mia quietly reminded her, "I''m twenty now; I¡¯m not a kid anymore." "So what if you''re twenty? In my eyes, you''re still a kid." Mia opened her mouth, not knowing how to express her feelings. Her throat choked up, so she opened her arms and hugged Naomi, who treated her like a mother. "You''re too good to me." "Silly girl." Naomi knew it was gettingte, so she didn''t stay long and left. Andre sat next to Mia, looking at her reddening eyes, "Moved again?" Mia nodded, "Babe, Hansen is good to me, Naomi is good to me, and even you spoil me so much, I''m so touched..." She started crying from her own happiness. "Why do you cry so easily?" Andreughed and wiped her tears, "You deserve to be loved by all of us." Mia didn''t know what was so good about her. She just felt lucky and made a mental note to thank the gods for their care in the future. "Ready for bed?" Andre asked. Mia dried her tears and crawled into the nket. Andre also got into bed from the other side. At night, Miaid Andre''s arm under her neck as a pillow. Before he could hold her, she nestled into his arms on her own. "Babe, were you angry today?" She asked. "Mia, why are you always worried about whether I''m angry or not?" Mia wasn''t sure about her feelings. She just voiced the thoughts in her heart, "Because I''m afraid that if you''re angry, you''ll ignore me, won''t like me, and then you''ll leave me. The thought of you leaving makes me so sad; it feels like there''s a big rock lodged in my heart, and I just can''t feelfortable doing anything. It even makes me want to cry." Andre turned to look at Mia, who had just confessed her feelings to him, "Would you be sad if I left you?" Mia nodded and said softly, "I can''t imagine you leaving me. I''m afraid my heart would break." "Mia, repeat what you just said." Mia repeated her words like a fool. She thought she was just voicing her thoughts. But to Andre, this was Mia expressing her deep love for him once again. "As long as you don''t leave me, I won''t leave you. Mia, if one day you leave me, I''ll grind you to dust." Mr. Cedillo''s confession was definitely unique. His words made Mia nervous, "Babe, what''s considered leaving you?" She must avoid being ground to dust. Andre uttered the harshest words in the gentlest tone above her head. "Probably... when I can''t see you or feel your heart, that''s what it means to leave." Both her body and her heart could never leave him. Mia was scared by Andre''s words and started crying again. "Why are you crying again?" Mr. Cedillo felt his chest getting wet. He looked down and found that Mia was crying again. "I''m scared that if I go traveling in the future, you''ll kill me because you can''t see me." Mr. Cedillo reassured her, "That''s not something to worry about; I''m not unreasonable." Mia felt like her life was saved, but then she started worrying again. "If my thoughts are no longer on you in the future... Ah, don''t p my butt! Let me finish." Andre''s hand stopped on her butt, waiting for her to finish. "Go on." If what she said was not pleasing to him, he would continue pping her butt. Mia said, "If my thoughts are all on our child in the future, will you kill me?" "Who''s the mother of our child?" "Of course, it''s me." Andreughed, "Then there''s no problem; I''m even looking forward to whether you can give birth to two little kids." Mia''s face turned red from being teased. "I''m not talking to you anymore; I''m going to sleep!" Mia had good sleep quality, and it didn''t take long for her to start breathing regrly. Shey in Andre''s arms, looking more like a worry-free angel. Late at night, at Evergreen Haven. Jade was hiding in her room, not daring to go out. Chad came home from work and stood at the door with his hand on his hip, "Come out and confess now, or I''ming in." "I''m sleeping." "Want me to climb in through the window?" Jade hurriedly got out of bed to lock the window. Chad used Jade''s weak point to threaten her to open the door, "Don''t you want to know how your two good friends are doing in jail because of this fight?" In less than a minute, Jade''s bedroom door opened quickly. She stood at the door and asked cautiously, "How are they?" "Weren''t you sleeping just now? You were just locking the door with great confidence." Chad walked into Jade''s room, his serious eyes fixed on her. After seeing Chad''s serious expression, Jade guiltily lowered her head, trying to think of a way to deal Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. with it. Soon, she used her well-practiced coquettish skills to flirt with Chad. She was wearing her pajamas and hugged Chad''s waist tightly, "I love you the most; can you not me me? I know I was wrong." "Let go of me." Jade shook her head, "I''m sorry. I know I was wrong. Can you not punish me." Chad swallowed hard, lightly tapping Jade on the forehead, "You''re twenty now, and you¡¯re not a kid anymore. I''m a guy, so you should keep a safe distance from me." Jade still shook her head and buried her face deep in his chest, "No! No matter how old I get, I''m always a kid in front of you. I just want to hug you." Chapter 122 Chapter 122 Every time Jade did this, Chad felt like he was at his wit''s end. When she was a kid and got caught sneaking candy, she would cling on to him like a ko, and he would let her off the hook. Later, when Jade was caught ying games, she would do the same, wrapping her arms around his waist and acting all cute, and he would let her slide again. Now, the little girl had grown up, but she still clung to him and acted cute, and he still let her have her way. "Alright, let go and stand up straight. Let me check if you''re hurt." "I''m fine. What about Mia and Leo?" "They were picked up by their families at noon. They''re safe and sound." Upon hearing this, Jade let go of Chad''s waist, smiling at him in gratitude, "Thanks for letting me know. Love you." Chad yfully flicked Jade''s forehead, "If I catch you in another brawl, even if you''re my sister, I''ll have you grounded." "Okay, I''ll listen to you." Jade saluted Chad, mimicking a scene she saw on TV. Chad said, "Go to bed, no phones." "Okay, bye, goodnight." After bidding Chad goodbye, Jade heaved a long sigh of relief, "Phew, I thought my trick wouldn''t work this time, but it still did." She climbed into bed andy quietly under the covers. Later that night, her room had an unexpected visitor. Chad came into Jade''s room after she fell asleep. He turned on her bedsidemp and lifted her nket to check if she was hurt, carefully examining every inch of her. He was afraid that she was lying to him. Fortunately, she wasn''t hurt. The next day. The three of them met again, and things werepletely different from the day before. Mia''s marriage wasn''t kept a secret. The whole school knew it. Afterwards, Mia stepped down from the position of school beauty as a married woman, and the person who took her ce was Jade. Jade asked, "What? I''m the school beauty now?" Leo, being the rich kid, was even more popr once this fact was revealed. And the number of people around him with bad intentions was growing. Leo snapped, "My family is rich, not me. If you want to rub shoulders with the rich, go find Andre!" As soon as Leo finished speaking, Mia next to him gave him a hit, "Who are you sending to Andre?" Leo fell silent. Even though Mia was no longer the school beauty, she took on a new role - the principal of Havenbrook University. She only knew about this when she was congratted. "What? I''m the principal now?" How did she end up bing the principal of the school after getting involved in a fight? Mia nervously called Andre to tell him about the situation. "This is my doing. You have absolute power in the school. You call the shots. If anyone dares to cross you, all decisions are in your hands." Mia was stunned, "Honey, I don''t want to deal with school affairs." "Just have fun. I''ll handle the school stuff for you." Mia was more and more convinced that she must have done a lot of good in her previous life. Otherwise, how could she be so lucky as to have a wonderful husband like Andre! "Honey, I love you." The man on the other end of the phone didn''t respond. Mia waited for a long time without any response from Andre. She asked, "Are you still on the phone?" "I am." Andre replied. Then he asked, "Since you love me, when are you going to give me two lively and cute little kids?" Faced with Andre''s push for children, Mia quickly changed her tune, "Humph, I don''t love you anymore." Not only did he push for children, but he also wanted her to have two! How could her belly possibly give birth to little kids? Andre chuckled, "You don''t want to have children?" Mia blushed, "What kind of husband are you? On the one hand, you call me a child; on the other hand, you want me to have children for you. You''re so hypocritical!" Jade and Leo, who were eavesdropping on their conversation, were both shocked. Mia was going to have a baby? Even with her usations, Mr. Cedillo was still in a good mood, even asking, "What time does school end in the afternoon? Can I pick you up openly this time?" Mia pursed her lips as an idea formed in her mind. "No, I have a romantic date today." After saying this, she quickly hung up the phone. Jade and Leo simultaneously asked, "Who are you going on a date with?" "Secret." Mia was ying coy. At four thirty in the afternoon, school was over. Mia quickly said goodbye to her friends, left the school gate, immediately hailed a taxi, and went to a flower shop, "I want arge bouquet of red roses. Please wrap it up for me." The flower shop was run by a gentledy. Seeing Mia, who looked like a student, she asked, "Who are you going to give it to?" Mia replied, "My husband." "Ah? You''re married?" Mia raised her hand, showing the ring on her finger to the shop owner, and happily replied, "Yes, I''m married." The owner immediately went to help Mia wrap the flowers. Thirty minutester, Mia was pleased with the roses she bought and got back into the taxi. "Take me to Cedillo Inc." Perhaps seeing her with a bouquet of roses, even the driver thought she was on a romantic endeavor. "Miss, are you going to see your boyfriend?" "No, I''m going to see my husband." She leaned her face into the bouquet, inhaling the scent of the roses, nodding in satisfaction, thinking, "Mr. Cedillo, get ready to receive your wife''s passionate love!" On Friday afternoon, the employees of Cedillo Inc. were all looking forward to the uing weekend. The closer it was to closing time, the more rxed they became. It seemed like a beautiful life was calling them. As the employees were leaving in groups, a girl holding a bouquet of roses suddenly appeared, instantly attracting everyone''s attention. "Wow, whose girlfriend is this? She came to see her boyfriend with roses. How romantic!" Mia didn''t care about the stares from people around her; what she wanted right now was to see Andre and see his reaction. Mia took the elevator to the floor where the CEO''s office was located. Inside the office, Andre was by the window, calling Leo to find out what was going on, "Who did Mia leave with today?" Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. "She left alone." "Then who is she going on a date with today?" This was what Mr. Cedillo really cared about. Andre had been patient all afternoon, but he still didn''t know who had invited Mia to dinner. Leo shook his head and said, "I don''t know either, but she seemed very happy after school today." Mr. Cedillo''s mood got worse. "Who on earth is she meeting? Why is she so happy? Which guy is it?" If he found out, he was going to give that man a piece of his mind for trying to flirt with Mia! "Oh, it''s you, clueless hubby." With her hands behind her back, Mia stood at the doorway, watching Andre make a phone call by the window, green with envy. The secretaries from the CEO''s office, seeing the roses hidden behind Mia, all felt happy for Mr. Cedillo. "Mia?" Mia walked into Andre''s office, looking at him. Even without saying a word, her face was brimming with joy. Chapter 123 Chapter 123 "Sweetie, close your eyes." The moment Andre saw Mia emerge from the office door, he was stunned. "Mia, are you here for me?" "Aw, just close your eyes, would ya?" Mia cooed. Andre hung up the phone as a doting smile appeared on his face. He did as she said and closed his eyes. Mia brought the bouquet of roses she had been hiding to her chest. She stepped forward, tiptoed, and nted a light kiss on Andre''s face. The kiss was gentle and quick, like a feather brushing across a calmke, but it left behind ripples that didn''t fade quickly. Andre''s throat bobbed as he slowly opened his eyes. Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. What greeted him was a vibrant bouquet of roses, their color more intoxicating than wine, their fragrance seeping into his heart. Behind the roses stood his Mia. Mia was smiling, looking even more beautiful than the flowers she held. She had left Andre speechless again. Andre had been through all sorts of storms and faced them with calmness. It was only after getting married that he realized there were still many things that caught him off guard, and they all had to do with his wife, Mia. A bouquet was set before him, a gift from his Mia. "Sweetie, I bet you''ve never received roses before. Here, these are for you." Mia handed the flowers to Andre. When Andre took the flowers, his palm felt a sudden warmth. He, a man, had actually received a bouquet of roses from his wife, Mia. With one hand holding the flowers and the other around Mia''s waist, Andre leaned down, close to Mia''s cheek, and asked, "The romantic date you mentioned this afternoon, was it with me?" "Isn''t this a surprise for you?" Mia hooked her arms around Andre''s neck, looking into his shining eyes as she answered. Andre''s throat bobbed again, "Close your eyes." Mia obediently closed her eyes, and the next thing she felt was the warmth on her lips. Noah was about to report to Andre when Alice saved him in time, "Mrs. Cedillo is here with roses for Mr. Cedillo. If you think you have the ability to resurrect, you can go in and die." The other employees in the CEO''s office had already lost interest in their work. The dull office was suddenly brightened by a sh of red, instantly reigniting their interest in their mundane lives. Noah made a split-second decision, immediately put down his work, and joined a dozen other employees in discussing the recent event. "What just happened? I can''t believe I missed such a big event! Mr. Cedillo receiving flowers, that''s a first, right?" "As far as I know, since I came to Cedillo Inc., there''s never been any red around Mr. Cedillo, let alone roses symbolizing love." "Mrs. Cedillo is so romantic. How did shee up with this?" Usually, it''s men who give flowers to women; everyone thought that was normal. But when Mia broke this established mindset by running to thepany with a bouquet of flowers in front of everyone, it greatly changed their opinion of her. Alice said, "Mr. Cedillo must have been captivated by the unique Mrs. Cedillo." "I think the premise of being unique is mutual attraction. Ms. Jillian also had a crush on Mr. Cedillo, but he wouldn''t see her unless she had serious business. It''s different with Mrs. Cedillo. No one has ever stopped her after her first visit. She even uses Mr. Cedillo''s private elevator, and he doesn''tin." Alice sighed, "It''s all about fate." Mr. Cedillo doted on Mrs. Cedillo; what else could they do? Inside the office, Mia stood in front of Andre, who was holding roses, and turned in a circle. "What''s different about me today?" "You''re wearing your wedding ring." Andre looked at her, his eyes full of love. "Is it that obvious, honey? How did you know?!" Mia excitedly asked him. Except for the day they got married when he put the wedding ring on her, Mia had taken off the ring after their wedding and thrown it in a box. This morning, as she was getting ready, she suddenly saw the dazzling ring. She stared at it for a long time before finally taking it out and putting it on her ring finger. Today in ss, she wrote while looking at the ring on her hand. She asked her two best friends, "Can you tell what''s different about me today?" "You''re not just the school beauty anymore; you''re the principal." That was Jade¡¯s and Leo''s observation. When she showed off her wedding ring, she said, "Look, this is what''s different about me today." "The ring?" Jade was a bit surprised, not by the news but by the fact that Mia hadn''t worn it before. Mia shook her head. At first, she was excited to ask the question, but seeing her friends'' t reactions, her excitement waned, and she wasn''t as thrilled anymore. She asked Leo, "Did you ever see me wearing a ring at home?" "Who has the time to look at your hands all day?" Leo hadn''t noticed either. Mia gave a disappointed "Oh." Her wearing the wedding ring was significant to her. It meant she was nning to seriouslymit to Andre. To Mia, the wedding ring was a sacred symbol. Wearing it meant that Andre was slowly making his way into her heart. But her best friends didn''t understand her thoughts. Maybe it was because they were still single and couldn''t rte to the special feelings married people had for wedding rings. Miaforted herself with this thought, and she didn''t show off her ring anymore. But when she stood in front of Andre, all she did was turn around, and he immediately noticed the added ring on her hand, which sent a thrill through her once again. "Honey, my friends didn''t notice that I wore the ring today, only you did. How did you notice?" Instead of answering, Andre asked her, "Are you going to wear the ring for just one day for the thrill, or are you never taking it off again?" Mia clung to Andre''s arm and shook her head, "I won''t take it off." Andre reached out and pulled her back into his arms with a smile. At six o''clock, Cedillo Inc. closed for the day. Andre, with one hand holding the roses and the other holding Mia, walked out of the office. Alice congratted him, "Mr. Cedillo, congrattions on your new roses." Mia bounced up and said, "You should thank me; without me, Mr. Cedillo wouldn¡¯t have any roses.¡± ¡°Mrs. Cedillo, when are you gonna throw some roses our way? We¡¯re all green with envy over Mr. Cedillo¡¯s bouquet.¡± Noah teased. Mr. Cedillo shot Noah a fierce re. Noah could feel a chill in the air. One look at Mr. Cedillo¡¯s eyes, and Noah quickly reined in his antics, "Alright, I''m not envious anymore." Mia, oblivious to Andre''s jealousy, replied to the group, "If I were to give you guys anything, it''d be a different kind of flower. The roses are exclusively for Mr. Cedillo; I can''t share them with you." Her words made Andre beam from ear to ear, and the cold atmosphere instantly dissolved. A curious secretary asked about the bunch of roses in Mr. Cedillo''s hand, "Mrs. Cedillo, how many roses did you give to Mr. Cedillo?" "Twelve." In an instant, the secretaries in the CEO''s office all gasped, "Whoa! Twelve roses?¡± Everyone chuckled with hidden intentions, "What did we just find out the twelve roses symbolize?" Chapter 124 Chapter 124 Mia''s face instantly turned beet red, and she stammered out, "Guys, don''t look it up now; if you must, please do it after we''re gone. I''d be really embarrassed!" Everyone around respectfully put their work on hold and watched as they left. Andre looked at the lively Mia with a heart filled with joy. When the elevator arrived, they both stepped in. As soon as they were gone, the people in the boss''s office immediately opened the web page. The office was once again filled with gasps of surprise. Inside the elevator. Mia blushed because of theirments, but Andre asked her, "What does a bouquet of 12 roses mean?" "You have a phone; can''t you just look it up yourself?" She said shyly. "I want to hear it from you." The mere thought of saying it made Mia blush. Andre was still waiting for her answer. Mia''s expression became more and more conflicted as she twirled her fingers, "Honey, you know what it means." "If you don¡¯t say it, I won¡¯t know." Andre just wanted her to say the words he wanted to hear. He always teased Mia, "Mia, say it; we''re husband and wife there''s no need to be shy." He emphasized again. "We are husband and wife." Mia thought, if she could give him flowers, why should she feel shy now? She hesitated for a moment before saying, "The flowers mean that my love for you deepens." Mr. Cedilloughed when he heard this. If the circumstances were right, he''d want to embrace Mia and love her in his own way. Andre suppressed his excitement. His face was calm as he said, "Remember what you said; your love for me should deepen." "No, that''s just what the flowers mean." Mia whined. "You gave me the flowers, meaning you want to express this, right?" The elevator door opened. In the hall of Cedillo Inc. was a sight that only came once in a blue moon. Mr. Cedillo, whom the employees admired, was seen holding roses and leading a girl out of the elevator. Did the girl look a bit unhappy? But Mr. Cedillo was smiling like a blooming flower in spring. Suddenly, people remembered the girl who was running around the building with roses. Turned out that the one who received the roses was Mr. Cedillo. Did this mean the lovely girl was the rumored Mrs. Cedillo?! Whispers of congrattions swirled around. The news of Andre receiving roses somehow reached his friends. Their chat group instantly became lively. Mars Arrowood sent a message. ¡°Big news in Havenbrook, all rted to our well-known Mr. Cedillo. Which one do you want to hear first?¡± Conner Nettleton replied. ¡°One at a time.¡± Mars replied, ¡°He acquired Havenbrook University and gave it to his wife.¡± Conner and Asher were speechless. Even the usually serious Teddy expressed doubt and replied, "Is this for real?" Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. They all thought of Andre as a sensible person; if he decided to acquire apany, he must have thought it through and decided thatpany would really bring profit. However, they didn''t think the proud Mr. Cedillo would do such a thing as acquire a university that had limited profits and required a lot of effort to run. All of this needed further investigation. When Mars posted a screenshot of the official Havenbrook University website in the group chat, Conner was so shocked that he spit out his drink, "This is?" Asher disappeared for three minutes, then reappeared, confirming Mars''s screenshot, "It''s true, the academic system has posted a notice." This time, it was Teddy''s turn to be shocked. "This isn''t even the most shocking. Look at this picture." Mars posted a picture of Andre in a suit, holding flowers, and holding Mia''s hand. Teddy replied. "Andre got roses? He doesn''t seem like the kind of guy who epts that." Asher added to the discussion, "Of course they weren''t given to him; with his aloof demeanor, who would dare to give him flowers?" Mars added, "Whether it''s Mr. Cedillo giving the roses to someone else or someone giving them to Mr. Cedillo, don''t you think him holding roses is simply incredible?" Conner always had a unique viewpoint, and he erged the picture to look at it. "Is she his wife or a new me? Look at how tightly he''s holding her hand, as if he''s afraid to lose her." He had only met Mia once, and he had long forgotten what she looked like, so he was unsure. Asher asked, "Mars, is this a photoshopped picture? With Andre''s cold demeanor, can he really walk around the office holding roses and a girl and be the center of attention?" Andre, who had been silent for a long time, finally spoke up in the group chat, "They weren''t from me; they were given to me." Teddy was startled, "Damn! Did someone hack your ount?" Conner was surprised, "They were given to you?" The usually tough Asher said, "Did you force someone to buy them for you with money?" Instead of going home, Andre took Mia to the most upscale restaurant in Havenbrook. Andre usually didn''t like steak, but for the romantic date Mia mentioned, he took her, who knew how to enjoy herself, to this ce. His phone kept buzzing, making Andre pick it up. It turned out they were discussing him in the group chat. He was in a good mood today, so he spoke up in the group chat and corrected the errors in his friends¡¯ assumptions. He didn''t expect his reply to cause such a stir. He looked at Mia, who was sitting across from him ordering food, then at the bright roses beside him. Mr. Cedillo swallowed, and he ced the roses in Mia''s arms. Mia was puzzled, "Honey, what''s the matter, you don''t want them?" How could Andre not want them? He was just showing off to his buddies that he could receive roses from Mia, "Hold them; I''ll take a picture of you." Mia pouted, "Who are you sending it to?" "Teddy, Asher, Conner, and Mars." Mia suddenly remembered that they had met once before. These four were all Andre''s close pals. "Hold on a sec!" She put the flower on the table, picked up her bag, and asked the manager nearby, "Where''s the bathroom?" The manager quickly pointed the way for Mia. She said, "Honey, wait for me, okay?" She was going to the bathroom to touch up her makeup. It was her first time appearing in a photo in front of Andre''s friends. She had to look stunning so that all of Andre''s friends would look at him with envy after seeing how gorgeous his wife was. In no time, Mia reappeared. She had put on delicate makeup that made her look fresh and cute. Her eyebrows were lightly brushed with a soft brown color, her eyeliner was slightly winged, and her lips were already naturally soft, but whatever she had applied made them even more glossy. "Did you put oil on your lips?" Mr. Cedillo asked, looking puzzled. Mia walked over and lightly patted his shoulder, "This is lip ze. Lip ze!" "Oh, lip oil." Mr. Cedillo thought to himself. Wasn''t that still oil? For the first time, Mia felt a bit of difficultymunicating with Andre. "Sweetheart, this is called lip ze. It''s for coloring, not moisturizing like lip oil." Her friends'' boyfriends would gift a tube of lip ze as a birthday present to their girlfriends. But with Andre, lip ze had somehow be lip oil. He ran a business empire but still didn''t understand these things. Chapter 125 Chapter 125 Andre was very unfamiliar with women''s stuff, nor did he pay much attention to it. "Are you done with your makeup?" He asked. The moment he saw Mia, he knew exactly what she had been up to in the bathroom. Despite his cluelessness about such things, his eyes weren''t just for show. He could see that Mia''s hair had been styled and her lip color had changed. Mia sat down next to him, "Honey, does this makeup suit me?" Andre always kept his cool and was not one tovish praise on his subordinates. His highest form of approval was a simple "Not bad." But Mia was not one of his subordinates, and his "Not bad" had a different connotation for her. "Don''t you like it? I''ll go take it off and redo it." "You look beautiful, really beautiful." Andre grabbed Mia''s hand to stop her from running off. "If you touch up your makeup again, these flowers will pale inparison." Mia nced at the vibrant flowers on the table, then thought about what Andre had said. Sheughed, "I find that older men are more sincere inplimenting their wives than young ones." Mr. Cedillo felt at a loss after being teased about his age. Mia sat across from Andre, holding a bunch of flowers, posing for him to take a picture. When a man took a picture, any action would do, so don''t expect the photo to be clear. When the blurry image was sent out, Mars asked in the group chat, "Mr. Cedillo, who is this in the photo?" "It''s Mia and the flowers she gave me." Mr. Cedillo replied. Conner chipped in, "Get a new phone; the rity of the photo is horrendous. If you''re short on cash, I can help you out." The other two friends also agreed with Conner and Mars. After a girl took a photo, it needed filters, retouching, beautifying, and editing before it could be shared. Mia, being a young girl, had high expectations for her photos. "Honey, let me see if the photo you took is good. I''ll put a filter on it, then you can send it." "...I''ve already sent it; you look beautiful." "Really? Let me see." Mia was even more excited. Andre handed over his phone so Mia could look at their chat history, but all she saw was a blurry photo. "Honey, where''s the photo?" "That''s the one I just sent." Mia held up the phone for Andre to see, "This photo?" Mr. Cedillo nodded without hesitation. "This? Is this beautiful?" Mia asked back; she couldn''t even tell it was her in the photo. Andre coughed awkwardly, "I think it''s beautiful." The manager on the side couldn''t help butugh when he saw the photo. Mr. Cedillo was indeed amazing and a genius in the business field, but when it came to taking photos, even an eight-year-old could take better shots. "Mr. Cedillo, Mrs. Cedillo, how about I take a picture for both of you?" Mia felt that Andre''s photography skills were a waste of her makeup. She looked at the manager next to her, "Can you take photos? If another blurry photo is taken, I''m not paying for today''s meal." "Although I can''t give you the stars in the sky, Mrs. Cedillo, feel free to order whatever you want to eat." Mia looked at Andre across from her, his eyes avoiding hers, and she somewhat angrily handed the phone to the restaurant manager beside her. "Please take a beautiful picture for me; I don''t care how Mr. Cedillo looks in the photo. It¡¯s fine, even if he looks a bit strange." Andre could hear the dissatisfaction in her voice. The manager was very insightful; he could tell from their interaction that Andre was very fond of Mrs. Cedillo. So he said, "Mr. Andre, could you sit behind Mrs. Cedillo?" Andre nced at Mia, who was pouting. Her expression was like she had just eaten a bowl of overly greasy food. Andre stood up and sat on the side of Mia as the manager instructed. His long arm was draped over her shoulder, and a beautiful rose was in Mia''s arms. During the photo shoot, Mia temporarily put away her anger. She slightly tilted her head towards Andre, smiling sweetly. She cleverly held the hand with her wedding ring tightly in Andre''s ringed hand. The manager handed the many photos to Mia after taking them, "Mrs. Cedillo, take a look." Mia looked at them and found each one to be very satisfactory. She nodded in satisfaction, then handed the phone to Andre, "Resend a picture of us to the group chat; don''t send the blurry one." Upon hearing her words and under her watchful eyes, Andre sent a clear photo to the group chat. Conner immediately responded, "You''re quick to switch phones, Mr. Cedillo, as expected of you. Whether it''s getting married or changing phones, you''re always fast." Teddy replied, "Focus on the important part; this is a group photo. Have we had a group photo with Andre in our twenty years of brotherhood?" Mars replied, "Finally got a clear look at Mrs. Cedillo''s face; she''s really pretty. Mr. Cedillo, you''ve really snagged yourself a young and beautiful wife; I''m green with envy." Mia had just finished ordering. She asked the manager to prepare the food and sat next to Andre, watching their friends chat. "Hahaha, honey, I really like Mars. He''s really funny." Andre turned to look at Mia, "He still wet the bed when he was 18. Do you still like him?" Mia immediately shook her head. Andre nodded in relief and continued to watch the chat between his friends. He said to her, "I will find a Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. chance to take you to Arcanville; the Nettleton family is in Arcanville; I will take you to see them during the holidays." "Are you going to introduce me to your brothers?" Andre stroked her hair, "I should have introduced you guys a long time ago." Mia''s thoughts jumped; her eyes curved into crescent moons as sheughed, excitedly saying, "Then if we meet, I''ll ask them for wedding gifts! I''ll take back everything they owe us." "Sure thing, Conner''s the big shot at home now; he''s loaded. You can ask for more." In a short while, the steak and foie gras Mia ordered were served. She grabbed her phone, ready to take a photo first. "Hold on, I haven''t finished taking pictures yet." After she finished, the two began to eat. "Would you like some red wine?" Andre asked. Steak, roses, and red wine were a perfect match. Mia shook her head, "I can''t drink because I''m afraid I''ll get drunk. And you can''t drink too, because I can''t drive." Andre nodded, "We are both free on Saturday and Sunday. I can teach you how to drive at home. Once you''ve learned, I can give you a car so you can drive yourself to and from school every day." Mia thought back to when she was learning to drive and how Aaron would get angry and shout. Even Madison Irvin refused to ride in the car she was driving. "Honey, I''m a bit of a dummy. You better not teach me." "Even if you''re a bit slow, you''re still my wife. If I don''t teach you, who else will?" Andre cut up the steak on his te and passed it to her, "Here, eat the pieces I''ve cut for you." Before they knew it, the lovely dinner was over. Outside the window, dusk had fallen. The lighting in the restaurant was dim, as if veiled by ayer of gauze. The sound of a cello started downstairs, and a serene melody echoed through the restaurant. Chapter 126 Chapter 126 Mia was leaning her chin on her hand, whiling away the time. Later, Andre stood up, took her hand, and with a rose in his hand, they left the restaurant. "I feel so bummed after the meal; the music makes me want to doze off. Honey, can we go to Majestic Dining Enve next time? I love the vibe there." Andre agreed. Back home, the rose in Andre''s hand immediately caught Hansen''s attention. "Oh, not bad; you finally know to buy roses for Mia; good for you." "Dad, I bought this rose for my husband." "What?" Hansen red at Andre, "You let your wife buy you flowers; don''t you feel ashamed? How could you go out with flowers? Go and buy roses for Mia immediately." While Mia was bending down to change her shoes, she said, "A rose isn''t worth much, but my husband took me out for an expensive meal. I think I got the better end of the deal." "So the romantic date you were talking about was with Andre." Leo said. Mia nodded, "Yeah, if I had told you earlier, you would have spoiled my surprise when my husband called." Back home, Andre didn''t say a word; it was all Mia talking. Hansen still thought his son''s behavior was inappropriate. How could he let a girl give him roses? Mia said something that made everyone feel warm inside; her views on marriage were quite "Marriage is mutual. Women need flowers, gifts, and surprises, and so do men. Of course, marriage must be based on equality. If one party is always giving, it''s not a happy marriage. It''s mutual; he gives me his love, and I give him my surprises." Andre had been feeling pretty luckytely. He hugged his chatty wife, "Who taught you all this?" "I figured it out myself." Mia''s words made Naomi reflect on what she had done for her husband over the years, "I don''t think I''ve ever given my husband flowers." Meanwhile, the usually quiet Bruce would bring small gifts or flowers for his wife on Valentine''s Day. Naomi nced at her husband as her eyes welled up with tears. After seeing his wife''s emotional state, Bruce quickly hugged Naomi, "I don''t need flowers; seeing you guys happy when I get home makes me happier than anything else." Mia noticed Naomi feeling guilty and quickly changed the subject. She pointed at Leo lying on the couch and said, "Naomi, you may not have given Bruce flowers, but you''ve given him the most precious gift in the world." Naomi and Bruce both looked at their son lying on the sofa. Him? Leo looked at his mother, then his father, and finally at Mia, who was pointing at him. Mia nodded, "Yes, you brought a new life to Bruce; isn''t that the most precious gift? If I get pregnant, I wouldn''t spend money on roses for my husband." "When do you n to get pregnant?" Leo asked. Andre also looked at his wife curiously, wondering how she would answer this question. Leo continued, "If you n to have a baby, have it sooner rather thanter. Don''t wait till I get married and have a baby; then you''ll be behind." Mia joked, "I''ll have it right after you." Hansen also joined in the baby talk, "Mia, you''re young and healthy now; you should have a baby early. If you''re worried about dying your studies, don''t worry; I can help you take care of the baby." Naomi added, "Yes, you''re young now. If you have a baby, the age gap between you and the baby won''t be big, and you can be friends with your child in the future." Bruce said, "You should have a baby now. Naomi doesn''t have much to do at home, so she can help you take care of the baby. If you want a baby by the time you graduate and start working, you''ll have to deal with the radiation from theputer and be busy with work. Once the baby is born, you might be overwhelmed. In a couple of years, Leo will get married. If he has a baby, Naomi will have to take care of it, and she might get too tired by then." Even the housekeeper joined in, "Ms. Mia, I can help you take care of the baby now." This was the first time Andre truly felt how wonderful it was to have a family. He had married a lovely young wife, and he had a whole family urging him to have a baby. Mia was a little scared. She tugged at Andre''s shirt sleeve and said, "Honey, can we go back to the bedroom? It''s really not Andre looked at his wife''s t belly, "Mia, do you want to have a baby?" Mia winked at her husband. Only he knew what she meant. They hadn''t even been intimate yet and had only kissed. How could you get a baby from a kiss? Andre chuckled. "Honey, if you don''t go back to the bedroom, I''ll go first." She felt so embarrassed by her family''s urging that she walked past the coffee table in the living room and headed for the stairs. Everyone behind her wasughing at her, "She''s actually blushing. Mia is really young; she gets N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. embarrassed just talking about having a baby." So, the family turned their attention to Andre. "Andre, go talk to Mia; you won''t regret having a baby early." "Andre, you''re not young anymore. By your age, your brother''s son was already calling him dad." "Andre, be nice to Mia; coax her into having a baby for you." However, only Leo said, "Andre, what I said just now was just to make Mia happy. In fact, I don''t rmend she have a baby early. Of course, I hope you be a father soon. But she''s only 20 this year. Most people at 20 are still being pampered by their parents, but if she bes a mother at 20, she''ll definitely be the talk of the campus. She''s young, and her marriage was already the talk of our school; if she gets pregnant, the gossip at our school would be too much for her to handle." This was Leo showing his many years of friendship with Mia and defending her as a good friend. After Leo finished speaking, the Cedillo Mansion went silent. Naomi asked herself, could she ept it if her daughter, not yet done with her studies at 20, was being pressured by her inws to have a baby? The answer was obviously no. She and Bruce stayed silent. Hansen was just thinking about adding a new member to the family, but he hadn¡¯t considered that Mia was still a student. "We''ll decide whatever happens between us as a couple together. We can also decide whether we have a kid or not a few years after Mia graduates." Andre stood up, picking up the rose from the table, "I¡¯m heading upstairs; you guys should hit the hay.¡± Mia, who had been eavesdropping from the staircase, crept back to her room after the chatter in the living room died down. Chapter 127 Chapter 127 Andre got back to the bedroom and noticed Mia on the couch with her book upside down. He gently pointed out, ¡°Babe, you¡¯re holding the book upside down.¡± Mia nced down, and yep, she was reading a book upside down. She quickly flipped the book right side up. She scanned the pages awkwardly, though she wasn''t really reading. Andre wandered around the room, searching for a while until he found a suitable vase. He nned to use it for the roses. Mia put down her book to help her hubby; after all, she was the one with the XX chromosomes. Girls generally had a knack for aesthetics, and Mia''s flower-arranging skills were clearly superior to her husband''s. Andre just stood aside, watching his wife''s nimble hands as they trimmed the bouquet. "Did you hear our conversation in the living room just now?" Mia pouted and nodded cutely. "Honey, are we really gonna have a baby?" If they were to have a baby, it would inevitably bring up the issues between them. However, to her surprise, while Andre argued with her in public, he actually defended her in private. Andre reached out and patted his wife''s head, "Whether we have a baby or not is up to you. Leo was right. Getting married has already made you the center of attention. If you have a baby, the public scrutiny will drown you." Mia finished arranging the flowers and leaned against her husband. In Andre''s eyes, she was like a clingy kitten, making him want to hold her, kiss her, lift her face, and kiss her again. "Actually, I''m not opposed to having a baby." Mia admitted. She wasn''t afraid of the gossip. What she feared was that the rtionship with her husband was not yet stable enough. If they rashly had a child and their views shed in the future, the child would be affected. Although she was smitten with him every day, they had been married for less than a hundred days. This period of time was not enough to truly understand a person. Did he have an ex? Was his private life a mess? Did he have premarital health checks? She had all sorts of questions. Her concerns were valid. If she wanted to have a child, she needed to know the man. If he truly loved her, then she would bear him a child. Not like now, a moment of passion made her feel like she wanted a child. Though she was young, her decision was mature. Her concession meant she was willing to have a future with her husband. Her words piqued Andre''s curiosity, "What are your conditions?" Mia bit her lip lightly, her small hand groping around her husband''s waist. "Honey, let''s start dating." Andre fell silent. Mia lifted her face excitedly, "I''ve never experienced dating because I married you directly. I want to have a sweet romance with you, and when the time is right, I''ll have a baby for you, okay?" Andre asked, "We''re already married, and you still want to date?" "Yes, don''t you think it''s romantic? Others date first and then get married, but there''s also a chance they might not end up marrying. But our situation is different; marriage is like our protective umbre; no matter how the dating goes, we''re tied together. There will be no worries about whether we''ll get married in the future. Plus, dating won''t affect our daily lives, it might actually make our interactions morefortable." Mr. Cedillo found his wife''s way of thinking quite out of the box. Mia continued, "Dating will help you understand me better. Just in case you feel that I''m not suitable to Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. be your wife, you still have a chance to end this. But if I have a baby for you, even if you leave me, I''m still your child''s mother. That''s an irrefutable fact." "Mia, you want us to date so you can understand me better, right? You want to see if I''m the perfect husband before deciding whether to have a child for me." Mr. Cedillo pointed out his wife''s real intention. Mia giggled awkwardly, "I observe you, you observe me; it''s mutual. Haha." "Honey, can you grant me this wish?" "Do we really need to date?" Mia nodded, "I''ve never dated before. I want to go to the movies with my boyfriend, share a cup of coffee, have dates, travel, and experience lots of fun things." Andre pondered it, but in the end, he was unable to say no to his wife''s hopeful eyes. Mia made an important suggestion, "When we be boyfriend and girlfriend, we can have lots of hugs and kisses." Andre was excited and quite pleased with this proposition! Caught up in his wife''s cunning n, Andre agreed to date her within their marriage. "Starting now?" "Okay." Just as they agreed to date, Mr. Cedillo began enjoying his ¡°benefits¡±. Mia was held in his arms, pushed against the wall, lifted up, and kissed. "Honey, you''re so impulsive. Kissing right at the start of dating?" Andre controlled his desires. As he looked at his wife''s enticing lips, he swallowed, "Mia, don''t push your luck; I''m not that patient." After seeing the desire in his eyes and his actions, Mia nodded in fright. That night, they cuddled as usual. It seemed like something had changed, but actually, nothing really did. Every time Andre applied medicine for his wife, he would get angry at those who hurt her. "Did you fight back at school today?" Miay on the bed, letting her husband apply ointment to her wless back. "No, honey, I couldn''t do it." "Why couldn''t you?" Mia replied, "Nobody online is talking about me anymore. The students around me know that you''re my husband, and they''re scared like mice; they don''t even dare to speak to me. If I retaliate again, it just wouldn''t feel right." After applying the medicine to his wife, Andre rubbed his hands together until they were warm, then quickly ced them on the spot where he applied the ointment, using his hand''s warmth to speed up the absorption and restore her to her original state. Mia thought this was a routine thing, but when it involved Andre, it was anything but routine. He had never treated someone so earnestly. He pampered her in every way. Andre didn''t tell his wife any of this. "They''re cowards! They won''t retaliate when you attack them; they won''t even dare to call the police. Why don''t you attack them?" Mia shifted subtly, her hand propping up her chin as she turned to gaze at her hunky husband. "Babe, isn''t all this because of you?" "Huh?" How did his spoiling her be his fault? Chapter 128 Chapter 128 Mia wisely said, "Since you put Havenbrook University under my name, that would make me the principal. What principal would go around hitting students? If the media gets wind of this, they''ll roast me alive. Also, if they find out that my husband is Andre, the business tycoon of Eldoria, they''d say I ''didn''t educate my husband properly'' and use you of ''letting your wife boss you around''." Andre was increasingly intrigued by what his wife said. He murmured, "Nah. When the media discovers I am your husband, those who criticize you will start singing your praises." "Why?" Andre retorted, "As my wife, who''d dare say a bad word about you? Would I let them off the hook?" Mia was bbergasted. Why was her husband so stern? It was scary but also kind of badass. "Honey, you can''t do this. You must be a good guy. You can''t bully others just because you''re rich and powerful. If one day you lose everything, they''ll kick you while you''re down. You¡¯ve gotta remember, always give people a little wiggle room." These were the lessons Mia had learned from her fights with Naomi and verbal sparring with Hansen after she was just married. Andre''s face was as calm as ever, "That day will nevere; nobody can beat me." He looked at his naive wife; perhaps she had only heard about the legend of Cedillo Inc. but didn''t know what his true business empire was like. "Mia, even if I stay at home with you every day, Cedillo Inc. will always be legendary." Mia blinked, secretly criticizing her husband''s arrogance in her heart. "I''m not arrogant." It was like Andre had mind-reading powers. How could he guess her thoughts from her expression? Mia stuck out her tongue yfully, "We''ll see. What if I give birth to a wastrel who bankrupts the "That won''t happen; don''t worry." "Honey, why?" Mia remembered the boring two-hour lectures whenever her old professors mentioned Andre''s name during ss. Her parents also admired him greatly when they mentioned him. "Honey, are you a god reborn as a human?" Andre cracked a smile, "Why would you say that?" "It just feels like you''re not a human." Andre was at a loss for words; he felt like he had been criticized by his wife. After the medicine on her back was absorbed, Andre went to wash his hands. When he returned, his book was snatched away by a certain kid and put under her pillow. Miamanded, "Bedtime." Andre paused, thenid down, opening his arms for her to use as a pillow and sleep with him. Before going to sleep, Mia said, "Honey, my cervical spine feels better when I use your arm as a pillow." "If you want to use my arm as a pillow, just say so. You don''t need to make excuses." "Oh, honey, I might need to sleep on your arm again." "As you wish." Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. The room was dim with the light turned off. The autumn wind was strong, and with the window half- open, a cool breeze swept through the room. This was the chill gifted by Mother Nature. The window screen was dancing in the wind. The stars in the sky sparkled, the grass on the earth was a lush green, and the flowers in the room remained vibrant. The couple hugging on the bed were enveloped by all that was beautiful. With their loved one beside them, they dreamed sweet dreams. The next day, without needing to go to school, Miazed around in bed for a while. She used to remind herself that this was Andre''s house and that they''d dislike her if shezed around in bed. But somehow, she now considered this ce her home, sleeping till she naturally woke up on the weekends. Nobody dared to disturb her. Leo was also sleeping in bed, and Naomi woke up early to manage the house. She wanted Mia to help, but then remembered she was still a child, so she went to her son''s room. "Leo, get up and help mom make a spreadsheet." "I won''t, go call my dad." "Your dad''s out on business with his colleagues; he''s not home." "Then go call Mia." "Mia''s sleeping; you hurry up and get up." Leo was irritated, "Mom, I''m sleeping too." "But you''re awake now, aren''t you?" "I was woken up by you. Why don¡¯t you go wake Mia up?!" Leo realized that ever since Mia came to his house, he seemed to have lost his pampered status. His mom, his dad, and his grandpa all liked Mia more than him. They started treating him like a brick that they could discard when not needed and use when needed. "Leo, if you don''t behave, I''ll call Andre toe and wake you up." Naomi threatened her son. The thought of that terrifying man made Leo unable to resist his mom¡¯s wishes, and he got up in anger. After helping his mother with the spreadsheet, Leo immediately went back to his room to continue sleeping. When Mia woke up, she stretchedzily in bed. "Honey?" But there was no response. She checked the time on her phone and saw that it was 9 am. Mia put on a knit coat over her dress and went downstairs. Seeing a maid, she stopped to ask, "Where''s my husband?" "Mr. Andre is in the study." Mia was halfway down the stairs when she turned around and went back up. She had a clear goal, to find her husband in his study. "Honey, it''s me!" "Come in." Mia pushed the door open, yawning as she walked to her husband. She rubbed her eyes after seeing all the data and text on hisputer screen, "I don''t understand a single word. Honey, what are you doing working on the weekend?" "Overtime." Andre turned his chair, and Mia walked in and directly sat on hisp. The couple looked so natural, as if they''d done this a thousand times before. Mia yawned again while sitting on her husband''sp. She said, "Why do I feel sleepier the more I sleep?" Andre just couldn''t help but smile as he looked at the still slightly sleepy Mia in the morning, "You went back to the bedroom before eight but didn''t get up until nine in the morning; what''s the deal?" Mia wrapped her arms around his neck, her temples touching his, "Oh honey, I''m justzy." When Mia unabashedly admitted she waszy, Andre seemed to understand it wasn''t her fault for sleeping in but rather the fault of her ziness.¡¯ Andre, holding his wife, had lost all interest in work. "Did you get enough sleep?" He asked his little wife tenderly. Mia nodded, "Enough." "Come on, I''ll take you for some breakfast." Chapter 129 Chapter 129 Mia hopped off her hubby Andre''sp, gripping his index finger as they both stepped outside. "Man, Mia''s like Andre''s shadow, she can''t go anywhere without him. Every time she couldn''t find him, she hunted him down." Two maids whispered on the stairs. "Yeah,st time when Mia woke up and Andre was at work, she was pacing around the house, asking anyone and everyone where her hubby was. When she found out he was at the office, she hightailed it there." "Just now, Mia asked me the same thing. She was about to go downstairs for a meal, but when she heard her man was in his study, she turned right around and zoomed upstairs." "Young love, right? They stick together like glue. Mia just can''t get enough of Andre; she''s practically attached to his hip all day." The maids'' whispers reached the couple''s ears at the bottom of the stairs. The more Mia heard, the more her little mouth puffed up, and she put on a cute pout. Andre, hearing the whispers, was in high spirits. It seemed like when he was not at home, his wife was always looking for him. "So, you can''t live without me, huh? Can''t bear to be apart for even a moment, huh?" He teased his blushing wife. Mia stamped her foot in frustration. She marched up to the railing, leaned forward, and red at the whispering maids. "What on earth are you all jabbering about? I don''t wake up and immediately look for my husband! I don''t pace around the house looking for him! And I''m not clingy! Stop making stuff up! If anything, it''s my husband who can''t live without me!" "Mia?!" The maids jumped in surprise. They were busted while gossiping about their employers. Andre pulled Mia back and patted her back. "Don''t get mad; they didn''t say anything wrong." Mia clung onto her husband''s shirt and cooed, "Darling, am I really that clingy?" Andre chuckled, "Just the right amount, exactly how I like it." Mia wasn''t pleased with his answer. So the annoyed youngdy let go of her husband and marched down the stairs to the dining room. Once there, she bumped into Leo. "How long did you sleep in for?" Leo saw Andre following Mia and swallowed his criticism, "I was upte studyingst night." "You''ve got some nerve." Mia said. She sat down, and a maid served her breakfast. "Where''s my husband''s?" Mia asked. She always threw around casual questions like, "Where''s my hubby?" "What''s my hubby doing?" "My hubby..." She didn''t mean much by it, but it made others think she was super attached to her husband. Next to her, Andre pulled out a chair and sat down, "I already ate." He was only here to keep herpany. Mia gently pushed him away, "Don''t worry about me; go do your thing. If you hover around me, people will think I always need you by my side and that I''m too reliant on you. It''s alright, I have Leo here." Andre was all smiles, "I want everyone to know that I''m here because I want to be. Can I do that?" Mia bit her lip. She turned to the two maids in the dining room, "Remember, it''s my husband who''s clingy, not me. Clear that up if you hear anyone saying otherwise. I''m not always stuck to my husband''s side." The two maids struggled to suppress theirughter. Mia was just too adorable. "Yes, we understand, Mia." N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Mia nodded in satisfaction. During breakfast, Andre had a question for Leo. "Have you taken your ACCA exams?" Leo shook his head, "Not interested." "Use your free time to study, pass your ACCA before your junior year, and prepare for grad school." Leo, feeling pressured, responded, "Andre, I don''t want to take these exams." Mia, with food in her mouth, nced at Leo, then turned to her husband, who was hard to read. Andre said, "I didn''t ask for your opinion." Mia knew Leo better than she knew Jade. She saw the frustration and pressure in Leo''s eyes, and his sigh told her that he didn''t like the path Andre had chosen for him. Mia watched Leo give in and quietly eat his breakfast. She turned to her husband. She felt that he was unhappy, especially after Leo''sment about not wanting to take the exams. The dining room, which had just been lively, was now eerily silent. Mia wondered if she was overthinking things. "Darling, can I ask you something?" Mia raised her hand in front of Andre. Andre held her hand and looked at her with adoration, "Ask away." Mia bit her lip, "Do I need to take that ACCA you mentioned?" "If you''re interested, go for it. If not, no need." Andre''s response made Leo envious. Mia asked again, "Darling, is it hard?" Leo chimed in, "It''s hard and boring." Mia turned to her friend, "If you don''t like it, then why are you studying it?" Leo nced at Andre and said nothing. It was clear. This path was also chosen by Andre. Mia turned to her husband, "If it''s hard, then I won''t learn it." "It''s okay; I¡¯m here. If you want to learn, I¡¯ll tutor you. One-on-one, no fees, just benefits.¡± Andre emphasized ¡®benefits¡¯, causing Mia to imagine scenes of them being lovey-dovey, so she blushed. ¡°I won¡¯t learn.¡± Andre seemed to know what she was thinking, and he began tough. He casually said, "Eat up; I''ll take you drivingter." "Do we really have to practice driving?" Mia wrinkled her face. "Darling, can''t I just stay put and not learn how to drive?" Andre asked, "Don''t you want a luxury car?" Mia had no such ambition, so she shook her head, "I don''t want one." Andre asked again, "Don''t you want to be able to go anywhere you want?" Again, Mia had no big dreams, so she shook her head, "There are taxis and you to pick me up." Andre was somewhat frustrated. Why was his wife so against learning how to drive? He asked, "What if I have to travel for work and there are no taxis nearby? What will you do?" Mia replied, "I could ring up my dad or give Leo a buzz." "You sure have a lot of backup drivers." Andre ced his wife''s left hand on his heart, "Are you really not keen on learning?" Chapter 130 Chapter 130 Mia cracked a smile, ¡°I kinda wanna learn, but I don¡¯t want you to be the teacher.¡± She turned to Leo, ¡°Honey, can Leo teach me instead?¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m the one who¡¯s gotta teach you.¡± ¡°Babe, you¡¯ll criticize me, get mad, and yell at me. I¡¯m scared I¡¯ll get pissed andsh out at you.¡± Her voice grew smaller as she finished her sentence. Would her husband still want to date her if she got angry and took out her frustrations on him because of his criticism? But if Leo was there... Firstly, Leo wouldn¡¯t dare yell at her. Secondly, even if she wanted to go ballistic, Leo could stop her in time and calm her down. Lastly, even if she was still mad, she would be hitting Leo, not her own husband. This way, she could still continue to date her husband. She would just feel a bit bad for Leo, but she could make it up to himter. But her n was shattered by her husband¡¯s refusal. Thinking about the dreadful experience of learning to drive in the past, Mia decided to try to persuade her husband one more time. ¡°Babe, it could be a disaster if I drive.¡± Andre replied, ¡°Then we¡¯ll meet God together.¡± Mia was left speechless by her husband. After dinner, Andre took Mia out. He put the car keys in her hand, ¡°Get in.¡± ¡°Babe, let¡¯s get a cheaper car.¡± If she crashed a cheaper car, she wouldn¡¯t feel as bad, and most importantly, she could afford to pay for it. Andre said, ¡°We don¡¯t have a cheap car at home; just drive this one.¡± Mia helplessly nced at the luxury car parked not far away. Being married to a rich guy had its own troubles. She couldn¡¯t even find a beater car to practice driving; all the cars she took out were worth a fortune. ¡°Babe, if I crash the car, do I have to pay for it?¡± She asked cautiously. Andre teased her, ¡°You¡¯ll have to pay, but you can get reimbursed.¡± Mia was a bit confused by her husband¡¯s words. If the car got wrecked, she had to pay, but the money she paid would be reimbursed? So in other words, if his car got wrecked, he would still be the one paying for the repairs? After getting in the car, Mia finally understood. She startedughing, saying cheerfully, ¡°Oh! Babe, you meant I won¡¯t have to pay, right?¡± After looking into her joyful eyes, Andre alsoughed. ¡°You¡¯re pretty sharp.¡± Mia yfully pinched her husband, jokingly saying, ¡°You''re too much; why can¡¯t you just say things clearly? Don¡¯t you know women don''t doplex thinking?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll find out if you can go with the flow in a bit.¡± Suddenly, Andre moved from the passenger seat closer to Mia in the driver''s seat. As she watched her husband¡¯s body get closer, Mia¡¯s heart started to race, assuming he was going to kiss her. ¡°No. No, babe, we''re in the car now, and people are watching.¡± Unexpectedly, Andre simply moved over to adjust her seat for her. She was petite, and it would probably take her a while to adjust it herself, so he helped. To his surprise, the little girl misunderstood and thought he was going to kiss her. Only when she felt her body moving forward did Mia realize he was just adjusting her seat. She saw her husband¡¯s face getting closer and swallowed nervously, wanting to avoid her husband''s lips, but they were always in her line of sight. Andre watched quietly, pushing his wife closer to him with the chair. When the distance was only a hair''s breadth, the chair stopped moving forward. Mia blinked rapidly; her movements were very small. She was scared that her lips would touch her husband''s mouth. ¡°Babe, can you move back a bit? I¡¯m feeling a little ufortable.¡± As soon as she finished speaking, Andre sealed her lips with his. Mia''s hands clenched tightly, her knuckles turning white, her heart pounding as if it were about to jump out. Tension filled the small car. In the end, she didn''t even know how she ended up wrapping her arms around her husband''s neck. When she realized this, she covered her face with her hands, not knowing what to do. ¡°Babe, I said no kissing; our staff are outside; I would be so embarrassed if someone saw.¡± Andreughed and said, ¡°Couldn¡¯t help myself.¡± Finally, he helped his wife buckle her seat belt and sat back in the passenger seat. ¡°Put your hands down; no one saw you but me.¡± Mia was extremely shy, and she turned her face towards the window. Andre sat next to his wife, enjoying herpany with a smile. In no time, Mia had adjusted herself. After all, they were now lovers. They were in an intimate rtionship as husband and wife; she couldn¡¯t always be this shy. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. So Mia pped her face a couple of times and started the car. Andre reminded her, ¡°Before you start driving, always check to see if there¡¯s anyone around; get in the car and lock the doors, then buckle your seat belt.¡± ¡°I know. The driving school teacher taught me all this.¡± Mia was obviously a newbie in the driver''s seat. From her actions, Andre could tell that his wife was well-versed in theory but chaotic in practice. ¡°Press the brake, shift gears¡­ eh? Where¡¯s the gear?¡± Mia looked around and suddenly noticed the gear behind the steering wheel, and something dawned on her. She turned to her husband and asked, ¡°D means forward, right?¡± Andre nodded. Mia continued to remind herself in a low voice, ¡°Indicator, honk the horn.¡± Then Mia''s honking filled the yard. Her husband was at a loss for words. ¡°Babe, why aren''t you saying anything?¡± Mia hadn''t started yet, and she turned to ask her husband. Andre didn¡¯t kill her enthusiasm, nor did he demand her to meet the standards of a professional driver. Instead, he praised her, ¡°You¡¯re doing great; this is the procedure when you get in the car; it¡¯s good you¡¯ve remembered it.¡± Mia was praised and gained confidence, ¡°Really? My mom used to be scared to sit in the car when I drove; she said it felt like being in a tank.¡± She once joked with her mother, ¡°You¡¯re lucky; some people want to ride in a tank but can¡¯t.¡± But her mother didn¡¯t like this and scolded her. Mia continued to speak about her past. ¡°And then there was Cooper; he used to nitpick my every move.¡± Eventually, she couldn¡¯t stand her brother¡¯s behavior, so she gave him a stern lecture, and since then, Cooper had been well-behaved, no longer speaking out of turn. Mia felt very sad as she thought about the past. If Mia hadn¡¯t brought it up, Andre might have forgotten that Mia had a brother overseas. ¡°Mia, have you heard from Cooper since we got married?¡± Usually, if you''re tight with your siblings, once you hear your sister''s getting hitched, you''ll grill her hubby-to-be. You''d make a call, chit-chat, nitpick a little, or remind him to treat your sister right. But so far, he hadn''t gotten a single call from Cooper. Chapter 131 Chapter 131 "Nah. He''s busy with his studies and our time zones were totally opposite. He only ever called Mom and Dad." Sometimes when she got a call from her little brother, she''d answer on the sly, so her husband didn¡¯t know. Andre didn''t press further. Instead, he suggested, "Take a fewps around the front yard, then drive to the fountain." Mia Irwin nced at the side. She asked Andre, "Honey, your car doesn''t have a handbrake." Andre: "¡­We don''t need a handbrake today. I''ll get one installed for you next time." Again, he urged, "Start the engine.¡± Mia nervously honked the car horn, then released the brake, allowing the car to coast forward at idle speed, then slowly pushed the elerator. The honking in the yard woke Hansen Cedillo. He stepped out, saw Leo in the living room, "What''s that noise outside?" "Andre is teaching Mia to drive." Hansen muttered, "What a bore, teaching his wife to drive in this heat." Hansen chatted with Leo, "Your uncle is so funny. I told him to get married, and he acted like he didn''t want to. As if I wanted to hurt him. Now, if someone asked him to divorce Mia, would he be willing?" Leo pondered this. He sidled up to Hansen and asked quietly, "Considering his stubbornness, always going against your words, why did he listen to you about marrying Mia this time?" Hansen was smug, "Humph, dare he disobey me? No matter how capable he is, he''s just a CEO. I''m still the chairman above him." However, Hansen''s smugness didn''tst long. Leo brought him back to reality, "Quit daydreaming. The just take his team and start over somewhere else, leaving the mess to you. Then we''ll see what you do." Hansen gave Leo a hard p on the head. "Get lost." Leo shrugged, retreated, scratched his head, "Grandpa, I just want to know the truth. I promise I won''t tell anyone." Hansen wasn''t in the mood, didn''t want to say a word to his grandson. The old man was stubborn. Anyone who upset him, he''d make sure they''re not happy. "The truth, you''re not worthy to know." Hansen left Leo, walked out to the yard, watching the car slowly creeping along the ground like a turtle. Inside the Rolls-Royce GHOST. Mia was tense. Her husband sat beside her,forting her all the way, "Don''t be afraid, it''s fine." "Honey, there''s someone ahead." Mia whined to her husband. Andre was speechless. Seeing a person and not braking, was Mia nning to hit them? "Honey, what do we do? We''re getting closer to that person." Mia continued to cry out for guidance. Andre looked at her leg, then at the servant walking ahead. His silly wife saw a person but didn¡¯t brake. That dumb servant saw a car but didn''t move out of the way. If an ident happened, both parties couldn''t escape the me. Mia was so nervous she forgot to brake. She rolled down the window, stuck her head out, and yelled at the servant ahead, "Hey, move, I''m gonna hit you." The car''s speed remained the same¡­ Mr. Cedillo looked at his not-so-smart wife, silent. She really wasn''t smart! She could think of sticking her head out to shout, but couldn''t think of braking. Even if she forgot to brake, couldn''t she think of honking the horn? Would she, in the future, when she saw pedestrians, also stick her head out to yell, "Hey, move, I''m gonna hit you"? Mia''s yelling worked. Soon, all the servants on the road cleared out. "Stop the car." Andre said. Mia''s foot switched ces. The car stopped immediately. She braked so hard, so abruptly, that even with the seatbelt on, her body lurched forward. And Andre, who had too much faith in her and didn''t fasten his seatbelt, was thrown forward, hitting the dashboard. Andre grunted. He used his hand to push against the dashboard, steadying himself. Andre reminded himself, it''s his wife who''s driving. He must guide her gently, not lose his temper or scold her! After the car came to a stop, Mia breathed a sigh of relief. She immediately turned to her husband, asking if he was hurt. "Honey, are you okay? Did you hit your head? Does it hurt?" Suddenly, the car started moving forward slowly again. Mia, wide-eyed, looked at the runaway car, iling her arms, frantically patting her husband, begging for help, "Honey, what do we do, what do we do? I didn''t step on the gas, why is it moving? Honey!" Andre steadied himself, then took a deep breath. He didn''t respond to Mia''s fear, but calmly reached out and switched the gear. The car stopped. Once the car came to aplete stop, Mia was quiet. After a while, she said, "Honey, if you want to scold me, just do it." Andre nced at his self-ming wife and said, "It''s the car''s design that''s faulty, not your fault." "I''m the one who didn''t brake, and didn''t put it in park after stopping." Mia lowered her head in guilt. Andre said, "You''re a beginner, you need to learn slowly. I''m here with you, don''t be afraid." He held his wife''s hand and asked her, "If there''s a pedestrian blocking the road, what should you do?" Mia said softly, "Warn them to move." "How would you warn them?" Andre asked. Andre figured, now that she calmed down, she probably knew what to do. But Mia''s answer, though disappointing, was not surprising. "Roll down the window and shout at them." Mia still didn''t realize her mistake after she finished speaking. Her right hand was held by Andre, her left hand pointed to where they just passed outside the window, and she said, "That''s what I did just now, and they moved out of the way." Andre sighed, "Mia, you''re driving a four-wheeled car, not riding a bicycle. Even bicycles have bells! Nobody uses their voice to signal others to move.¡± He hoped Mia would remember that the horn is not just for decoration, it can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Mia pondered for about three minutes, then suddenly blurted out excitedly, "I should have honked the horn." "Yeah... why the heck didn''t I honk the horn instead of yelling?" she asked Andre again. Andre also wanted to know what the hell she was thinking just now. But Andre reminded her again, "Mia, you gotta brake when you see pedestrians. Cars should always give way to pedestrians. Got that? In any dangerous situation, remember to brake." Mia nodded, "Got it." Her brain got it, but her hands and feet seemed to have a mind of their own.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Chapter 132 Chapter 132 As the car started moving for the second time, Andre buckled up. The car took three spins around the front yard, then headed towards the fountain. Mia tried to steer it in the opposite direction. "Stop the car," Andre yelled. Then, the car came to an abrupt halt. His body jerked forward. Thank goodness the seatbelt saved his life. He showed his wife the correct route around the roundabout. Mia then resumed driving. "Stop the car." The seatbelt saved Andre''s life once again. "Mia, don''t drive in the middle of the road, keep to the side." About ten minutes passed, Andre shouted again, "Stop the car." The seatbelt saved his life for the third time. The constant braking made his chest ache a bit. Andre coughed twice. He looked at his wife and asked, "How was the drive just now?" "The road was rough," Mia replied in a soft voice. Hearing her voice, Andre''s anger evaporated. He even tenderlyforted her, "Sweetie, you drove over the flowers." Had there been a fence, she would have definitely crashed into it. And if there was a cliff beyond the fence, they would have tumbled down by now. Thankfully, this was just their own garden. The garden of the Cedillo Mansion had superb scenery, with flowers of various colors and trees of all seasons. Every morning, gardeners would bring fresh flowers to nt. However, the newly nted flowers had barely been in the soil for half a day before Mia crushed them under the car. Upon hearing this, Mia instantly felt sorry for the flowers. She unbuckled her seatbelt and was about to get out of the car to check. She eased off the brake, then attempted to exit the car without changing gears. The car started to roll again. Andre could scold his subordinates who couldn''t remember things properly. He could punish those who repeated the same mistakes, helping them correct their behaviors. But, with Mia, it was different. He couldn''t scold her because she would cry. He couldn''t hit her because she would hurt. This was really giving Andre a headache. The car door was already open when Mia suddenly realized something. Looking at the slowly rolling car, she cried out, "Oh no! I forgot to shift gears again." Andre felt relieved, thought, ¡°she still had the chance to correct her mistakes.¡± Mia stepped on the brake again, shifted gears, and slowly let off her foot. Once she was sure the car wouldn''t roll anymore, she got out. Andre watched as Mia dashed off to check the flowers, shaking his head helplessly. Then, he also turned off the car and headed over. There was Mia, squatting on the ground, looking at the precious flowers crushed into the soil. The beautiful flowers, ttened by the car wheels, looked pitiful. With her hands sped together and eyes closed, Mia murmured as if in prayer, "I''m sorry. I''ll try my best to revive you. If I can''t, rest in peace in heaven. I''ll hold a funeral for you." Andre was totally speechless. He pulled up his pants leg and squatted beside her. "Are you repenting?" "No, I''m rescuing. If the rescue fails, then, I am praying." Mr. Cedillo was speechless again. Maybe this was the generation gap. He couldn''t understand the trendy things his wife was into. Just this morning, he had to look up the difference between lip gloss and lip oil, which certainly expanded his knowledge. Now, he was watching his adorable wife digging holes in the ground and burying flowers. "The roots of the flower are in the soil. You need to pull it out first before you can bury it again," Mr. Cedillo reminded her, unable to bear watching her struggle. "Wow, hubby, you make a lot of sense!" Mia was quite happy. As she went to pull the stem of the flower, sheplimented her husband, "No wonder people think you''re so great. You''re smarter than the rest of us." As she was pulling, suddenly, the air froze. Mia was looking at the broken stem in her hand, seemingly frozen in ce. Andre looked at the flower in her hand and remained silent. The flower still had roots, so it might have survived if rented elsewhere. Now, the roots were gone. Mia had gripped the middle of the stem and pulled. As a result, she broke the stem in half, leaving the roots stuck in the soil. In this case, the flower waspletely irreparable. The usually stoic Andre nonchntly said, "You don''t have to try to save it now." Mia was crying out in the yard. Tears streamed down her cheeks, drop by drop. As Andre wiped her tears, heforted her, "There, there, don''t cry, sweetheart. It''s just a flower, it''s Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. not like... cough cough... as long as you''re okay." Realizing his words weren''t quite right, Andre quickly rephrased. Hearing Mia''s crying, Hansen came over. "What''s going on? Mia, what happened? Did Andre bully you? I''ll beat him up with a stick!" Hansen went over to Mia, asking with concern. He yfully swatted Andre''s back, not too hard, just to let Mia know that he was on her side. "I''ve hit him already. Don''t cry." Mia let go of the flower, wiped her tears, and looked at Hansen with teary eyes. "Andre didn''t bully me." "Huh? Then who bullies you?" Mia pointed to the flower that she had crushed and then broken, "This one." Now, Hansen didn''t know what to do either. A crushed flower bullied his daughter-inw? Even if he was really tough, he couldn''t avenge Mia for this. "Uh... Mia, it''s lunchtime. The butler called me to eat. You guys shoulde back too." Hansen quickly made his escape. Only the couple was left by the flower bed again. Andre, who had been smacked by Hansen for no reason, heard Mia ask in a small voice, "Does it hurt?" Andre shook his head, "I''ll help you bury these flowers, then we can go eat lunch together?" Mia pouted, "Honey, you help me dig the holes." "Alright." The sky was clear, not a cloud in sight. The bright autumn sun shone down on the Cedillo family''s yard, and on the couple''s backs. One in a sharp ck suit, the other in a cozy knit, sweet and gentle. The man was ying a game he never liked as a kid¡ªdigging in the dirt¡ªwith his wife. Andre took off his watch and put it in Mia''s pocket. He didn''t allow her to get her hands dirty. He dug holes in the garden himself, then nted the flowers in them. Mia held the flowers, waiting for the holes to be ready. Then, she gently ced the flowers into them. Then, Andre watched as she filled the holes with surrounding soil. The funeral wasplete. Because their hands were all mucked up, they didn''t drive back. Instead, they left the car by the roadside and walked home. At home, Leo kept pestering Hansen, "Grandpa, can you tell me why Andre would marry Mia? How did you evene up with that idea?" Hansen made a beeline for the dining room. He said to Leo, "Don''t bring this up in the house again. If your uncle gets angry and hits you, I''m not going to save you." "I definitely won''t ask them. Their rtionship is heating up right now, why would I bring that up out of the blue? That''s why I''m asking you. C¡¯mon, spill it, Grandpa! I promise I won''t b." Hansen snorted, "Like I''d believe you." "Grandpa, don''t tell me you exploited..." Chapter 133 Chapter 133 At that moment, a servant''s greeting sounded in the dining room, "Mr. Andre, Ms. Mia." Hearing the servant''s address, Leo shut up instantly. Seeing Mia and Andre, he sat down properly. Mia and Andre''s hands were all covered in dirt. "Why are your hands so dirty?" Hansen asked. Mia shook her head. She replied, "I just dug a grave for a flower." Hansen was speechless. Leo pointed at Andre''s hand and asked, "Why are his hands also so dirty?" He couldn''t believe that the sophisticated Andre would get dirt on his hands, let alone for digging a grave for a flower. Mia exined, "He dug the hole." The two people at the dining table were so shocked. "Andre... digging? A hole?" At this moment, Hansen would rather believe that the end of the world was Mia didn''t understand his surprise. She nodded, "Yes, is that weird?" Andre didn''t want Mia to talk to them any longer, so he took her hand and took her to the bathroom to wash their hands. Hansen looked at Leo, Leo looked at Hansen. Their expressions were the same, both shocked. Hansen remembered that Andre was different from ordinary children since he was young. Children like to y with sand, castles, and building blocks. Every time Hansen came home from work, he would buy toys that children of the same age liked, but Andre always threw the toys aside and never yed with them. Later, in kindergarten, other children yed with soil, but he thought it was dirty. ying with mud, he thought it was disgusting. ying silly putty, he thought it was childish. ...... His childhood seemed really boring. Hansen thought his son had a serious obsession with cleanliness, and every time before he came home, the house had to be thoroughly cleaned. And now, this son he thought had a serious cleanliness obsession, was actually digging a hole in the yard with his bare hands?! He had been mistaken for 28 years! Leo was even more shocked by the extent of Andre''s indulgence towards Mia. He had once been beaten by Andre for scattering crumbs everywhere while eating. He was also supervised by him to pick up all the crumbs on the ground by hand and throw them away. When he was young, he forgot to clean up the eraser crumbs when he was erasing pencil words. Andre found the eraser crumbs when he was checking his homework, and so he got another beating. Later, when he came home from ying basketball, he was covered in dust because he liked to sit directly on the ground of the basketball court. Once, he didn''t change into clean clothes when he got home and sat on the sofa, and happened to be found by Andre. So, Leo naturally got a beating. He was not only forced to take a shower and change clothes immediately, but also had to wash the dirty sofa cushion by hand. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Later, Leo always kept his surroundings clean when he was eating, without any trash and crumbs. Everyone praised him as a noble son with good manners. When he was in school, his notebook was always the cleanest among all his ssmates, and there was never any trash around his seat; after ying basketball, he would immediately take off his clothes and take a shower as soon as he got home, washing the dirty clothes at the same time. When he was young, he always thought that Andre was the cleanest and most charming man in the world, who disdained all the dirty things in the world. But he, for Mia, let his hands touch the soil! Leo never thought this day woulde. Soon, the couple came out with clean hands. Hansen and Leo, sitting at the dining table, were both staring at them. The one who suggested nting flowers must have been Mia. Andre would never waste time on such meaningless things. However, the couple seemed to ignore their existence. Mia took Andre''s watch out of her pocket. She held his hand, "Darling, let me help you put on your watch." Andre handed his hand to her. Leo realized a truth, "In this house, relying on Mia is more useful than ttering Andre a thousand times." Soon, Naomi Mastin also came, "I just called my husband. He said he''s noting home for lunch. Let''s eat first." Hansen grumbled, "Really, why didn''t he tell us earlier? We''ve already made dinner for him." This ordinary sentence was taken to heart by Mia. She bit her fork, looking at her family on the dining table. In the end, her gaze fell on her husband. She was smiling at him. Andre''s heartbeat sped up. He clearly felt a sense of unease. "Darling~" "Eat." "Darling~I have something to tell you." Andre forked a piece of chicken and put it in her mouth, "Open your mouth." Mia obediently opened her mouth and ate the chicken that Andre fed her. Then, she said while chewing, "Darling, can you create a group chat~" Andre fed his wife another piece of chicken. Mia unceremoniously took another bite, "Just like that Instagram group chat you guys hadst time. Can you also for us family..." "Keep your mouth open and eat." Andre fed her another piece of beef. Everyone at the table was quietly watching Andre feed his wife. Her mouth was almost full, and Andre was still feeding her. "Um, darling, my mouth is full. Let me swallow first. I have something to tell you." Andre picked up the soup next to him for her, "Drink some." Mia took it and started to drink. After she finished, she was about to speak, but her mouth was stuffed with a piece of broli. Every time she called out "darling", there would be one more piece of food in her mouth. In the end, Mia stopped talking. But Andre asked, "What else do you want to eat? I''ll feed you." "Andre, am I disabled?" Andre said, "why do you ask that?" "Why are you treating me like a disabled person? I have hands, and I can eat by myself." Under everyone''s gaze, Andre was reprimanded by his wife. He was not angry, nor did he argue. When everyone was waiting for Andre to scold Mia in public, to defend his dignity, Mia pouted and turned her head abruptly, ignoring Andre. Andre awkwardly touched his nose. Everyone was expecting him to get angry, but it didn''t happen. Instead, he forked another piece of fish and put it in Mia''s te. Mia looked at the piece of fish somewhat dejectedly. She didn''t angrily refuse her husband''s food, but picked up the fish herself, put it in her mouth, and swallowed it in one bite. Mia noticed everyone around was eyeballing Andre. That''s when she realized she''d been a bit rough on him. Usually, back in their private corner, she could treat him however she wanted. But today, in front of everyone, she shouldn''t have taken a shot at his dignity. After all, he''s her hubby. Chapter 134 Chapter 134 So, Mia got up with her fork and added a ton of food to Andre''s te. "There''s chicken, broli and potatoes, corn, steak and fish, and some stuff I don''t even recognize...all for you. I hope you can eat to your heart''s content, and eat healthily!" Mia said it as if she was reciting some sort ofmercial script. After she finished, she realized she had made everyone around herugh. Mia ced the te in front of her husband, filled with her "love". "You were always getting food for me, so now I''m returning the favor. Give it a try." Mia said to Andre. Andreughed, "But I was feeding you directly." Mia seemed a bit upset, "But if I feed you, I won''t have hands to eat my own food." As soon as she finished speaking, Naomi couldn''t help but burst intoughter. Andreughed along. He had made a request, and she had actually refused it, all because she wanted to eat! "Just focus on your food, I don''t need you to feed me." Andre said. Just now, he was just teasing her earlier to see her reaction. Sure enough, her reaction didn''t let him down. With Mia at home, there was alwaysughter to be found. During lunch, Hansen asked Mia how her driving lessons were going. Mia thought about her experience in the morning and lowered her head guiltily. The flower buried in the dirt knew, her driving skills were far from great. Andremented, "There''s still a lot of room for improvement." Hansen didn''t catch his son''s hidden meaning and thought he was praising Mia''s efforts. "Mia, keep it up, I''ll support you in spirit. Once you learn to drive, you can take me to the snack street for hot dogs. Ever since you showed me that video of the cheese hot dogs, I''ve been wanting to try it." Mia knew her true capabilities, so she didn''t dare to make promises lightly. "I can only promise to take you there, but I can''t promise to drive you there." She didn''t dare to make such a dangerous promise. Hansen asked, "Why?" Mia replied, "I''m afraid that after you ride in my car, you''ll be scared of all cars." Hansen went silent. Andreughed. After lunch, the Cedillo family sat in the living room, enjoying the leisurely afternoon. Andre had to go to his study due to work. Naomi had gotten up early in the morning. By noon, she was tired and went back to her room to rest. After a while, only the threete risers were left on the couch. Property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Mia asked Leo, "What time did you get up this morning?" "Around nine. You?" "Me too around nine." Both of them turned their eyes to Hansen in the middle. They asked in unison, "What time did you get up?" Hansen found out that both of them got up earlier than him. "There''s no need to discuss this." He didn''t want to tell them that he got up at ten. Seeing that Hansen didn''t want to answer, Mia and Leo had to give up. If they kept asking, they might get scolded. "Hansen, do you have a chat app or social media?" Hansen asked, "Why would I need that? Isn''t calling good enough? Chatting on the phone is too casual." Hansen was essentially a traditional person and needed time to ept new things. Despite everyone using mobile apps for socializing and entertainment, Hansen didn''t think much of it. A few years ago, Leo had suggested he download an app like this, but the stubborn old man Leo told Mia about this. Mia criticized Leo, "That''s because you didn''t find the right approach." So, she decided to take matters into her own hands. "Do you want to be a group admin?" "What''s a group admin?" Hansen seemed very curious. Mia had wanted to discuss this during lunch, but Andre kept interrupting her. Now, she brought up the topic again. "A group admin is like the master of our house, very powerful. We can create a group chat with just our family members. You as the group owner can kick anyone out of the group chat if you want. Plus, the group admin will be respected and loved by our whole family." Hansen hadn''t been in charge for a long time. He suddenly became interested in this proposal. "Mia, keep exining, what''s this group admin thing about?" Mia''s words piqued Hansen''s interest. She started to exin in detail what a group admin is, how to create a group chat, and the benefits and conveniences of creating a group chat. "...For example, my husband often has social obligations, so sometimes he won''te home for dinner. Then, he just needs to send a message in the group, ''I won''t be home for dinner tonight.'' Then, we all can see his message and inform the kitchen to prepare one less meal. "Or if I eat something delicious, I can ask everyone in the group, ''Who wants to eat? I''ll bring some back for you.'' Then everyone can reply to me after seeing it. "Or if Naomi is out shopping, and I need her to buy something for me, I can tell her in the group chat..." The more Hansen listened, the more reasonable he found this proposal. This way, a lot of time and energy can indeed be saved. "So how can I be a group admin?" Hansen was thoroughly convinced by Mia. Mia took out her phone and taught Hansen how to download Instagram, how to register, and how to use it. Leo watched Mia in astonishment. Today he realized that Mia was really persuasive! Whether it''s scolding, sarcasm, or coaxing, Mia is very good at it. She tried for years without sess, but Mia convinced Hansen with just a few words. "Mia, I haven''t received this verification code." Hansen asked. Mia took a look, "Wait a bit longer. The verification code will be sent soon." Hansen and Mia sat together, fiddling with the phone for over ten minutes. "Registration sessful!" Hansen looked at the information on his phone and nodded in satisfaction. "How do I add you guys as friends?" Mia patiently taught Hansen. Andre standing at the top of the stairs watched his wife downstairs. He was about to call her back to the room to rest, but happened to hear her persuading Hansen to register for Instagram. He watched for a while. His father was getting on in years. They all once suggested that he shouldn''t be cooped up at home all day, but should get out and about, keep up with the times. However, Hansen was as stubborn as a mule. You couldn''t persuade him if you tried. If they went head to head with him, it would just end in a stalemate, so everyone threw in the towel. However, ever since this cute wife entered his home, Hansen has been well under control. Andre noticed that Mia was very patient with his family. Hansen didn''t know how to change his profile picture, where to get verification codes, or how to add friends... Many seemingly simple operations were a mystery to him. Impatient people would have already angry. But Mia, she''d patiently sit by his side, guiding him step by step. If he didn''t get it the first time, she''d teach him again, and again. During these ten minutes or so, there wasn''t a trace of impatience in her. It was easy to show whether a person was sincere or not. Mia indeed had her heart on her sleeve when it came to his family. A smile tugged at the corners of Andre''s mouth, a sense of pride swelling within him. This beautiful and patient woman, was his Kittemia. Chapter 135 Chapter 135 An hourter, Hansen sessfully followed Mia and Leo on Instagram, with the duo following him back. He had also sent follow requests to three other people, but was yet to receive a response. "Is that all good now?" Hansen asked. Mia nodded, "Yeah. After this, you just need to add us all into a group chat." "Okay!" Hansen got busy with his phone again for a while. "Did you go for steakst night? Which restaurant? Was it good?" Hansen asked Mia about hertest Instagram update. Mia had shared a romantic dinner with Andre the previous night. After returning home, she shared photos of their dinner on Instagram. Leo instructed Hansen to like her picture. At that moment, Andre noticed a new follow request on his Instagram. He epted it and also followed Hansen back. "Oh, Andre''s sneaking in some phone time during work hours! He''s not focused at all." Hansen proceeded toment on Andre''s profile picture. "Why is it all ck? What''s this?" Hansen expressed extreme dissatisfaction with Andre''s profile picture. "This dude lives like an old man. I¡¯m even younger than him." Next, he noticed that Andre''s profile waspletely nk - not a single picture posted. "He''s really boring, doesn''t know how to share or enjoy his life." Mia started to get annoyed, "Even if he is your son, he''s also my husband. I''m still here. If you keep In front of others, she was part of the Cedillo family. At home, it was just her and Andre - their own little family. Hearing someone make such negativements about her husband was bound to upset her. Andre standing on the second floor seemed quite satisfied with her reaction. "Mia." He called out. Mia turned her head, looking up at the man on the second floor. "Honey, what is it?" "Come up for a nap." Andre waved at her. Seeing that Hansen no longer needed her, Mia happily left. At the stairs of the second floor, Andre reached out and took her hand, asking in a doting manner, "You''re so bouncy when you walk, like a lively little kitten. Whose Kittemia are you?" Mia leaned on Andre''s arm as they returned to their bedroom. "Yours, of course~" His heart was touched once again by her soft words. Before going to bed, Mia freshened up in the bathroom. She suddenly asked, "Honey, why didn''t you let me talk about the group chat at the dining table?" Andre replied, "I don''t want to be the group admin." Mia dried her face and came out of the bathroom to look at the man on the couch, exposing his lie, "You''re just worried about not having Dad in the group chat since he doesn''t have an Instagram Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. ount, and that he''d feel lonely." Andre said, "You saw through my thoughts again?" "Do you even have to ask? I know your heart well." Mia walked over, poking his chest with her finger. Andre ced his hand on his chest, grabbing Mia''s small hand. She sat on hisp. He hugged her. "Guess what I''m thinking?" "You''re probably thinking, ''Who''s this woman, looking so beautiful even without makeup? Ah, it''s my adorable wife!''" Mia held her face in her hands, admiring herself while nestled in Andre''s arms. Her tone was sweet and proud. Andreughed heartily. He openlyplimented her, "You''re right. You''re my beautiful, adorable wife." Mia alsoughed. So this is what sweet love was like. Even the most ordinary words, as long as he said them, would make her burst intoughter. Mia voluntarily hugged Andre''s neck, carefully studying his face. Her gaze finallynded on his eyes. She was stunned, then said, "Honey, you''re so handsome." Andre held her, and kissed her lips. He liked the fresh taste of her mouth, he liked her vor. The narrow couch restricted Andre''s movements. He picked up Mia''s legs, ced her on the bed, and without giving her time to react, he pressed himself on top of her. Mia''s mind was a whirlwind from his kisses. Lying on the bed, before she could react, she was pinned underneath him. What followed was a series of passionate kisses. Mia could only catch her breath in brief intervals. Driven by desire, Mia felt a hard object between her legs, causing some difort. She reached out to move it away. And then, she touched...Both of them were shocked. He didn''t expect such an innocent and naive girl to touch him there. Mia didn''t expect that to be his dick... Mia screamed. "Ah!" She immediately covered her face, and dared not to look at him. Andre''s face also turned red. He got up from Mia, ncing at his lower body, and coughed awkwardly. Mia, in a small flower dress, had her blouse distorted from their earlier kissing. Her neck and ears were all red. "I''ll go shower. You go to sleep." Andre said. Mia was too embarrassed to even respond. She wished she could chop off her hand. Her hand was still burning hot. Andre went to the bathroom. Soon, the sound of running water could be heard. Mia made sure he was not in the room before reacting. She rolled off the bed and stood up. Her face was as red as fire. She ran to the walk-in closet, looking at her red lips in the mirror. She excitedly pped her own face. "Are you stupid? Is your brain empty?" She stayed in the walk-in closet for a while, suddenly hearing the sound of water from the bathroom stop. She quickly changed into her pajamas, tossed her clothes from the morning aside without hanging them up, and ran to the bed. She lifted the nket, crawled in, and then covered her head with it. Everything was going perfectly. The man came out. Andre was only wrapped in a towel. He looked around, finally spotting the lump on the bed. He approached. The person on the bed wriggled deeper into the covers. Andre gently reminded her, "Don''tpletely cover your head with the nket. Keep your head out so you can breathe properly." "I don''t want to see you~" "We are husband and wife. What happened just now..." "Don¡¯t say that, I''m not listening!" From inside the covers, Mia covered her ears with her hands, loudly interrupting Andre''s words. "Alright, I''ll shut up now. Pop your head out, don''t suffocate yourself," Andre went to lift her nket. Chapter 136 Chapter 136 Mia immediately wrapped herself in the nket like a turtle retracting its head into its shell. Andre was speechless. Is she really that shy? If they truly became intimate, would she never dare to see him again in her lifetime? Andre thought his adorable wife was too sensitive. If he let her continue to be this shy, he didn''t know when he would truly get close to her. Just as Andre was wondering how to solve this problem, his phone buzzed. He picked up his mobile and answered the call. "Hello, this is Andre." "Uh-huh, sure." "I''m on my way. How manydies are there?" "Alright, let''s set it up like that. I''ll be there in half an hour." After saying that, Andre hung up. He looked over at the bed. The word dies" had sprung his cute wife from her cocoon. She was now seriously staring at him. "Where are you going?" Her tone was theplete opposite of her previous shyness. Now, shyness was no longer important to her. Her husband was going out to meet other women! That was what mattered the most. "Did you hear me? Where are you going?" Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Wearing only a towel, Andre headed for the closet. Mia threw off her nket and followed him. Andre pretended to undo his towel. Mia immediately closed her eyes, turned around, and said, "Honey, don''t push it. I heard your call." Andre took his clothes from the wardrobe and changed. He listened in silence to Mia''sints, "You''re married now, so you should be responsible for our marriage. And our romance is just beginning. If you betray me, I''ll divorce you." Andre finished changing and went to the cab to pick out a watch. Mia continued scolding him with her back turned, "As a man, you need to be responsible. Even though wildflowers might be pretty, they''re full of dust from being out in the wind and rain and they''re dirty! The flower at home may not be as beautiful as the wild ones, but at least it''s pure." Andre had put on his socks. He stood up. Looking at his bed-headed,ining wife, he kept silent and walked past Mia. Only then did Mia notice that he had changed his clothes. She hurriedly ran after him. "Honey, did you hear what I just said?" Andre responded, "I know. As your husband, I should be faithful to you." Mia nodded vigorously. "Exactly. So, are you going to meet thosedies?" "Yes." Andre put on a fresh pair of leather shoes by the door and grabbed his car keys. "Spend the afternoon with Leo. If you get bored, you can also go shopping with Naomi. Don''t wait for me. I might bete." "You¡­ Andre, aren''t you going to teach me to drive?" Mia pouted. Andre replied, "I''ll teach you tomorrow. I have someone waiting for me this afternoon. I have to go." With that, Andre left the house. Mia watched the closing door, her eyes welling up, her heart full of anger. Andre got into the car and adjusted his seat. Sitting down, the image of Mia''s anxious face just now popped into his mind. He couldn''t help butugh. If he didn''t give her a little shock, she would never realize how strong her feelings were. So, Andre teased her on purpose, hoping she would realize her love for him and ept him sooner. He drove off. Left in the house, Mia leaned on the window and watched the car leave. Then, lifting her head, she suddenly started to cry. "Andre, you''re such a big jerk!" Crying, she went to Leo''s room. She didn''t knock but walked straight in. "Hey! Mia! Why didn''t you knock?" Leo was startled and sat up on his bed. Mia''s eyes were red-rimmed. This was the first time she had shown her vulnerable side in front of Leo. "What''s wrong? Why are you crying?" Seeing Mia like this, Leo immediately became nervous. He got out of bed and said, "Don''t cry. What happened?" "Leo, can you do me a favor?" "Okay, I¡¯ll help you. What do you need help with?" Leo tried tofort this tear-streaked friend. Mia sobbed, "Andre just went out to meet other women. He even said he was going to meet a lot of them. Can you help me keep an eye on him?" Leo said, "Wait a minute. I didn''t quite catch that. You''re saying, Andre went out, to meet other women, or a lot of women?" Mia¡¯s tears started flowing again. "Yes. He¡¯s a jerk!" Leo asked in confusion, "Why would he go meet other women?" "He, he, he wanted to get close to me in the room. I didn''t let him touch me, then he took a shower, took a call, asked how many women were there, and then left." Leo frowned in confusion. From what Mia was saying, Andre didn¡¯t get what he wanted from her, so he went out to fool around. But he thought Andre was a decent man who wouldn''t go to such ces. Plus, everyone knew how much Andre adored Mia. How could he abandon her and go out to chase skirts? "Did you misunderstand?" Mia shook her head, "When I confronted him, he was guilty and didn''t say anything. I also heard his call. He asked the person on the other end how many women there were and then said he was on his way." Leo said, "Hold on. I¡¯ll call my uncle. You go out first, let me change." Mia shared her judgment, "When he left, he told me to y with you in the afternoon. Normally he doesn''t like the two of us together, fearing we might develop feelings, but today he didn''t care." Leo thought about it and nodded. Indeed, Andre had once mistakenly thought he and Mia had a rtionship. His behavior today was indeed strange. "Go out first. I''m wrapped in nkets right now, I can''t call my uncle. Let me change, and then I''ll take you to him, okay?" Mia stopped crying. She pouted and left Leo''s room. Leo quickly changed and called Andre. The call went through but was immediately hung up by Andre. Leo: "¡­Oh my God, did he really cheat?" He was shocked. He dialed Andre again quickly. This time Andre''s phone showed it was busy. Seeing the situation was getting out of hand, Leo quickly dipped out of his room. "Mia, get dressed pronto. I''m taking you to thepany to find him." Mia was ready in a jiffy, only taking five minutes to change. Her hair was a bit of a bird''s nest, just roughly ruffled through with her hands, and she didn''t even p on any makeup. "I''m ready." Chapter 137 Chapter 137 Leo asked her, "Aren''t you gonna get dolled up a bit?" "Do I look like I''m in the mood to dress up?" She grabbed Leo and hurriedly headed out. Meanwhile, Hansen was still lounging on the living room couch, busy with his new social media app. He browsed through Mia''s page, then went on to check his grandson¡¯s page. Not only was he liking andmenting on everyone''s posts, he was also ying around with emojis. He was chilling there,pletely clueless that his grandson and daughter-inw were running around like headless chickens. Leo drove to Andre''spany, only to find out he wasn''t there. The on-duty staff informed her, "Mrs. Cedillo, Mr. Cedillo hasn''t been here all day." "Where does Andre usually hang out then?" The staff, not daring to pry into their superior¡¯s whereabouts, suggested, "You should ask Alice and Noah." "Give me the phone. I''ll ask right now." Mia dialed the number given to her by the staff. She took three deep breaths, stared at the phone for three seconds, then finally hit the call button. Once the call connected, Mia regained herposure. She asked, "Hello Alice, this is Mia, Andre''s wife." "Mrs. Cedillo?" Mia nodded and then said, "Alice, I need a favor. I want to surprise Andre, but I don¡¯t know his usual hangouts. Can you help? And please, don''t let him know." Alice, cautious, asked Mia, "Mrs. Cedillo, why do you want to surprise Mr. Cedillo?" There was no special asion or holiday, and it was odd to suddenly n a surprise. Plus, didn''t she just send him flowers yesterday? Mia said, "Isn''t the expensive bracelet worth me nning a surprise for him?" "That was Mr. Cedillo''s apology to you." "Alice, you seem to know quite a lot. Not only do you strategize for him, you also know him very well. You even know whether he wants a surprise!" The annoyance in Mia''s voice was hard to miss. Alice sensed Mia''s displeasure. He hesitated for a moment, then gave Mia two addresses. "Any other ces?" "I only know these two." Alice was still holding back. Mia narrowed her eyes. She said, "Alice, I know my husband well enough. The TranquilBlossom Caf¨¦ is where he entertains elders. He wouldn''t go there often. The Crescent Park is where he socializes¡ª you do not expect me to surprise him at a hotel, do you?" Alice had been working for Andre for years, how could she only know two ces? Alice then asked, "Mrs. Cedillo, if you want to know more, then please tell me why you want to surprise Mr. Cedillo? Otherwise, I cannot divulge everything. As Mr. Cedillo''s chief of staff, I need to keep all things about Mr. Cedillo confidential." "I''m pregnant and want to surprise him. Is that reason good enough?" Leo, standing beside her, was so surprised he could''ve fit a whole egg in his mouth. He was dumbstruck, looking at Mia. How could she announce her "pregnancy" so casually? Even the on-duty staff standing nearby looked surprised, ncing at Mia''s t belly. Could her slender waist really be hiding a baby? Oh boy! On the other end of the phone, Alice brightened up¡ªso it was good news. He wanted to probe more, but he didn''t want to offend Miapletely. So, Alice told her all the potential ces Andre might be. "Mrs. Cedillo, congrattions." "Thank you." With that, Mia hung up. She grabbed Leo''s sleeve, leading him to the executive elevator. "Mia, you''re really pulling out all the stops. You can even tell such a big lie about being pregnant?" "Leo, if Andre dares to cheat, I''ll make him pay." Leo said, "¡­Isn''t that a bit harsh?" Mia looked at Leo, "Take care of yourself. You might be the only hope for the Cedillo family''s future." Leo was speechless. The elevator arrived, and Mia was the first to step out. Behind her, Leo hurriedly followed. "Mia, calm down! Andre is your husband, after all." Mia ignored him, "Get in the car. We¡¯re going to the StarStriker Arena first." An hourter, they found the stadium deserted. She then ordered, "Go to the EnchantedEssence Club." Another hour passed, and she still hadn''t found him. Mia didn''t give up. Getting back in the car, she said, "Go to Maplewood Estates." Leo turned to look at the calm Mia. He tried to dissuade her, "He hasn''t been to Maplewood Estates in a long time." "Go." Leo had no choice but to drive to Maplewood Estates. This was Mia''s first visit to Andre''s "home". Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. He loved ck so much. Mia assumed his "home" would be ck as well. To her surprise, Maplewood Estates was a milky-white building. Standing on a t grasnd, the white of Maplewood Estates and the green of the grass Such a fresh scene would soothe anyone''s mind. Mia unbuckled her seat belt and got out of the car. She walked up the steps to the front door, nervously looking at the entrance. If she found Andre inside, she''d make him regret it. What if he was really inside? Mia fearfully walked up to the door, too nervous to knock. She was scared of hearing voices inside, scared of witnessing a scene she didn''t want to see. Mia stared at the door for a long time. Finally, she mustered up the courage to knock twice. Two soft knocks, as weak as her courage. "Who''s there?" A woman''s voice came from inside the house. At that moment, Mia''s heart rate quickened. Her eyes instantly filled with tears, her fists clenched. The door opened, and a cleaningdy stepped out. Mia asked her, "Where''s Andre?" "Mr. Cedillo isn''t home. Who are you?" Leo hustled up, "Hey Ada, is my uncle around?" "Mr. Leo, Mr. Cedillo isn''t home. He hasn''t been back for a long time. I''m just here for my usual cleaning duties." A weight was instantly lifted off Leo''s chest. He nced at Mia who seemed equally relieved. "Let me introduce you. This is Andre''s wife, Mia. Mia, this is Ada who takes care of the cleaning at Maplewood Estates." Ada eyed thedy in front of her, sizing her up and down, her eyes full of joy. "So, you''re the Mrs. Cedillo that Mr. Cedillo keeps mentioning? You''re truly stunning." Mia asked her, "Ada, has anyone else been here while Mr. Cedillo has been away?" Ada shook her head without hesitation, "No one. No one has lived here for a long time." Hearing this, Mia''s fists rxed. Her shoulders dropped as she expressed her gratitude to Ada. Back in the car, Mia felt drained. She closed her eyes and said, "Let''s go home." Leo asked, "There are two more ces we haven''t checked. Aren''t you going to continue searching?" Mia shook her head, "I just don''t have the energy to keep looking." Chapter 138 Chapter 138 Deep down, she didn''t want to stop looking, she was just afraid of what she might find. As she knocked on the door, the sound of people inside sent her body into shivers. What if she made it to the hotel, and actually found Andre? So, Mia decided to call off the search. All Leo could do was drive her back home. As soon as they reached home, Naomi was there to greet them. "Mia, I''ve been looking all over for you." Mia asked with ack of enthusiasm, "What''s up?" "Nothing really. Andre thought you might get bored this afternoon, so he asked me to take you out for some shopping. The weather''s about to get cold." Naomi cared for Mia like a mother. She nced at Mia''s dress, "It''s already autumn, you''ll catch a cold in that dress. We should get some thicker clothes." Mia shook her head, weakly saying, "You go ahead. I''m heading back." With that, Mia ascended the stairs, looking as if she had lost her soul. Back in her room, she locked the door and began crying into her pillow. By the time evening came, Andre was still nowhere to be seen. Later, Mia was pulled out by Leo to watch TV in the living room. Naomi noticed her unusual behavior and reminded Leo not to let Mia stay cooped up in her room alone. Mia kept her eyes on the door. Bruce Cedillo had already returned home, but Andre''s car was still missing. "Leo, help me move this table." Mia stood up and led Leo to the storage room, where they found an old table and carried it out. Leo asked, "Where do you want it?" "Block the door with it." Mia used a long table to barricade the entrance to the Cedillo Mansion. Then, she disappeared for a bit and came back with a spray bottle. "What''s this...?" Leo asked, confused. Mia didn''t exin. Then she went to the bathroom. When she came out, she was holding a bottle of toilet cleaner. Then she disappeared again. When she returned, she had a bottle of bleach in her hands. Naomi was puzzled, Leo was shocked. Bruce was busy with Hansen, studying Instagram. Seeing Mia like this, he was also very curious. What on earth was happening? Only when Andre returned home at eight did they realize the extent of this little girl''s temper. As soon as he reached the door, he found it blocked. He couldn''t get in. Mia started to spray him with the disinfectant from the bottle she was holding.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. "Mia, why are you spraying me with alcohol?" Andre covered his face. He smelled the strong scent of alcohol and asked her. Mia said coldly, "Disinfection." She then took out the toilet cleaner and squirted it on Andre. "Stop! Mia, enough! What are you doing?" Mia said, "The first was disinfection. This is sterilization." And it wasn''t over yet. Andre saw the bottle of bleach on the table next to her. Seeing Mia out of control, Leo and Naomi immediately stepped in to stop her. Naomi grabbed the toilet cleaner from her hand and held her, "Mia, tell me, what happened? Why are you so angry?" Leo quickly moved the table blocking the door to let Andre in. He whispered to Andre, "You''re in trouble. She''s been looking for you all afternoon." Andre entered the room. He was about to scold his irresponsible wife, but the sight of her teary eyes and the tears on her face softened his heart. "Mia,e here." Mia broke free from Naomi''s embrace. She walked quickly to the table, picked up the bleach bottle, and prepared to pour it on Andre. Leo swiftly snatched the bleach bottle away. "Don''t be impulsive! This could hurt someone." It was then that Hansen, who had been engrossed in his phone, noticed the unusual atmosphere in the living room. "What''s going on?" He asked. No one answered. "Why is Mia crying? Who upset her?" He asked again. Still, no one answered. Hansen looked around and understood the tense atmosphere in the house. Clearly, Andre was the one who made Mia cry. "Andre! Did you make Mia cry again? I can bear it when you annoy me, but how could you upset my daughter-inw? Mia is such a sweet girl, and you made her cry! Are you asking for a beating?" Hansen started looking around for his cane. Then, he swung his cane, ready to hit Andre. Bruce hurriedly stopped his father, "Dad, calm down. Let''s hear Andre and Mia''s exnation first." "Exin what? Can''t you see that? Andre made Mia cry! How could I not beat him?" As he spoke, Hansen was still swinging his cane, ready to hit him. Bruce managed to stop him again. Bruce, being middle-aged, had more strength. It wasn''t hard for him to stop Hansen. Leo was worried that Mia might start a fight with Andre in the living room. He put down the bleach, held Mia''s hand tightly, and asked her to restrain herself fromshing out in front of everyone. In the living room, Andre was left unprotected. Everyone was looking at the couple, waiting for them to exin. Andre stepped forward, pushed Leo''s hand away, and held Mia''s hand himself. Mia forcefully shook off his hand. "Had your fun, now you¡¯re home?" Mr. Cedillo, who was wrongly used of cheating by his wife, was speechless. "Come with me to the room. I''ll exin." "You probably thought about how to exin before you came home, right?" Andre asked, "Would I lie to you?" "Who knows?" Naomi looked at the couple, "Andre, Mia, what on earth happened?" Mia pointed at Andre and said, "He cheated." Hansen looked at the silent Andre, ready to scold him, but suddenly turned to Mia and said, "Mia, could you have misunderstood? Andre wouldn''t betray you." He didn''t believe his own son could cheat. Naomi also nced at Andre. After all, she had watched Andre grow up and knew him to some extent. "Mia, could it be a misunderstanding?" If Andre was to be unfaithful, he would likely divorce first, then start a rtionship with someone else, not have an affair while still married. His educational background, values, and moral standards wouldn''t tolerate such a thing. Bruce was sure his brother wouldn''t stoop so low and do something so disgraceful. Seeing that everyone was giving her the side-eye, Mia spilled the beans about Andre deliberately misleading her at noon. "...also, Leo and I swung by his office in the afternoon and some other ces he often hangs out at, but we couldn''t find him." All eyes were on Andre, waiting for his side of the story. Gotta admit, ording to Mia''s ount, Andre did seem a bit fishy. So, on this cool autumn night, the six members of the Cedillo family were parked on the living room couch, chinwagging about the love life problems of the newlyweds. "I got a call from Harry in the afternoon and headed to the development site in the west. There was a snafu with one of the machines. It detected radiation at the site, and there just happened to be a few there, waiting for the experts to sort things out. Only after the problem was fixed, did I head back." Andre rified. Sure, he did have a selfish motive in the afternoon - he wanted to make his lovely wife green with envy. However, his antics were over the top, which led to the current sticky situation. Chapter 139 Chapter 139 Married couple facing each other, with four judges sitting on a couch nearby. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. Mia, all hyped up, said, "You said it yourself! You told me specifically you''re gonna meet with some other women this afternoon." Andre replied, "I just said that to tick you off." "Are you out of your mind?" Andre pulled out his phone and showed it to his fuming wife, "Look, did I really call some other women?" Mia grabbed his phone without any hesitation and started to inspect. "Andre, you answered a call from Jillian Marshal!" She interrogated loudly. Andre rubbed his temples. He silently swore never to make her jealous again. Every time she got jealous, the impact was so tremendous that she totally lost her senses. "Mia, look closely. She called me, but I didn''t answer." Mia nced at it, and indeed, it was true. "Isn''t this a female name?" She pointed to another call log and questioned. Andre patiently exined, "That''s a specialist. She fixed the device we used today." "And this unknown number?" Andre continued, "That''s Jillian''s father. He was asking me to forgive Barbara and reinstate her at school. I told him it''s my wife who calls the shots at school now, so begging me is pointless. Then, I just hung up." Mia was still fuming inside. She was ready to blow up. Hansen also took Andre''s phone and looked it over, but still couldn''t find any loopholes. So, he took out his own phone, found Harry''s number, and dialed. "Hey, Harry, it''s Hansen." "I wanted to ask you something. This afternoon, Andre..." The other party said something. Hansen nodded, "Ah, I see. Andre was with you guys all afternoon? And the women present?" The other party said something else. Hansen repeated, "Really, all the women left early? That''s good. Women are generally weaker, should go for check-ups earlier. You guys did well." Only then did Mia believe Andre didn''t go out fooling around in the afternoon. Thinking about how he deliberately pissed her off, she felt like throwing the phone at him. "Harry, is this number linked to your Instagram ount? I''ll follow you! We canmunicate online if anythinges up." "What? You don''t have Instagram? You''re so behind the times! Get your kids to download it for you. My daughter-inw helped me set up an ount today, even made a group chat. We can just chat in the group if anythinges up. It''s really convenient. And I''m the group admin, I have all the power! You should get your kids to set one up for you too." Hansen, with his phone, went off to brag about his new social media skills again. Bruce, holding Naomi''s hand, signaled for her to leave with him, leaving the ce to the young couple. Leo also took the chance to leave. Now, the spacious living room was left with just the two of them. Mia was sulking, not saying a word. Andre got up and walked over to Mia, bending down to hold her hand. Mia shook off his hand again. Even though he didn''t cheat, he made her jealous on purpose, made her cry all afternoon, and she hadn''t gotten her revenge yet. They went back to their bedroom. Andre only realized then that he had seriously pissed off his wife at noon. "Mia, how about I stay home tomorrow and teach you how to drive?" "Not interested." Andre tried to appease her, "What if I take you to Majestic Dining Enve tomorrow?" "You go on your own. Have a st with yourdy friends." Andre was speechless. Back in the bedroom, Mia went straight to bed. She ignored her husband all night. The next day, when Andre wanted to apany her, Mia was nowhere to be found. He asked Leo, "Where''s Mia?" "She went to yell at you with Jade." "Jade Byrne?" Leo nodded. Whenever Mia had something to vent about, she and Jade could each rant for an hour. After ranting, they would feel better. Normally, Mia could only vent her dissatisfaction by fighting, but this time, the one who pissed her off was her husband. As his wife, she didn''t hold a grudge against him too much. In the coffee shop, Mia and Jade were sitting face to face, oneining about her husband, the other about her brother. Jade said, "My parents went back to their hometown to visit my grandparents, so it''s just me and my brother in Havenbrook now. Chad can''t stand a moment without me! Did you know, Mia, if I spend more than five minutes in the bathroom, he knocks on the door asking me toe out." Mia said, "Chad''s been treating you well. You should be content." "But he''s too good to me, it makes me want to run away. When my parents weren''t home before, we ate out for every meal. I''ve tried all the restaurants around his police station. Now, he won''t even let me visit him at the station. Do you know why?" Mia shook her head, "Does he think you''re embarrassing?" Jade pped the table, "Because his intern likes me!" Hearing this, Mia instantly forgot about being mad at Andre. "Jade, I remember you telling me about this. His intern is a handsome young guy, a senior, right? Still an intern?" Jade quickly nodded, "You think I should be mad? The guy''s even more handsome than Leo! It¡¯s such a great opportunity, but Chad ruined it." "You really should be mad. I think I saw him at the police stationst time. He was really handsome, seemed gentle and refined. Out of all the cops at the station, he''s the best looking. Honestly, if I weren''t married, I''d have Leo get his contact info for me." Jade regretted when she thought about it, "Chad threatened him, said if he continued to like me, he''d transfer him." It''s not easy for Jade to find someone she likes, and it was ruined by her brother. Mia said, "Why can''t you date in secret?" "How could I date in secret? Are you saying I should deceive Chad and secretly date this guy?" Mia nodded, "Exactly." "Mia, think about it, what does Chad do for a living? He''s a cop! He has ways to check all my spending records, and all the ces I''ve been to. Even if he can''t find them, if he interrogates me like he usually does with suspects, I''d spill the beans in less than three minutes." Mia said, "Well, if you''re not into him, I''ll be the one to make a move then." "Why would you going after him? Take a look at the wedding ring on your finger, remind yourself, you''re a married woman." "I just want to piss off my husband." Feeling sorry for the young stud, Jade tried to talk some sense into her friend. "Cut it out, Mia, give the guy a break. It''s already a tough pill for Chad to swallow that I like thatd, if Mr. Cedillo finds out you''re into him, this poord will be torn apart by these two men." "You''ve got a point there." Chapter 140 Chapter 140 Mia and Jade hung out at the caf¨¦ all morning. After lunch, they went shopping together and even watched a movie. By nightfall, they went to the night market. After stuffing their faces and quenching their thirst, their phones started buzzing. "Time to head home, right?" Mr. Cedillo was left out at home by his wife all day. He thought Mia would be home in the afternoon, but she wasn''t. He waited till nightfall, still no sign of her. So, he kept waiting. It wasn¡¯t until past eight that he nervously dialed her, reminding her toe home. "I''m noting home tonight. I''m staying at my mom''s." Andre responded, "Come back tonight. I''ll take you tomorrow." "No need. My friend will go with me." With that, Mia hung up. Jade also answered her brother''s call. "I''m noting home tonight. I''m staying at Mia''s mom''s house with Mia." "She''s a married woman." "So what? I can''t hang with her because she''s married? I don''t care. I''m noting home tonight." And with that, she hung up too. The two friends looked at each other, gged down a cab, and headed for the Irvin family''s house. There was a loud noise at the door of the Irvin family''s house. Madison Irvin came out to find her daughter. "What brings you here?" Mia was holding a bunch of shopping bags, with Jade standing behind her. "Jade, you''re here too." Jade nodded and politely greeted her. Mia announced, "Mom, we''re staying the night. Jade and I will be having a girl''s night." They went back to Mia''s childhood room. "Jade, there are pajamas in the closet, help yourself. I''ve got a new toothbrush for you, it''s in the bathroom cup." Jade was no stranger to Mia''s room. She''d been there many times. After cleaning up, theyy in bed chatting. "Have you ever...you know...made love with Andre since getting married?" Mia blinked, ¡°Not yet, but I think it won¡¯t be long. He¡¯s been bringing up the baby talk recently. I¡¯ve been brushing him off, saying we need to get to know each other better first.¡± "How did you manage to share a bed with a man and still keep it in your pants?" Jade curiously asked. Mia knew Andre hade close a few times. She was relieved. "Andre''s a gentleman. He knows I''m not ready yet, so he doesn''t push. He respects me." "That''s rare." Mia nodded. She thought Andre was a good husband, "He''s not bad, but what he did this time was a bit too much. We''re a couple, we should live in harmony, but he deliberately made me jealous with other women! Is he sick or what?¡± ¡°Mia, could he be trying to make you feel threatened, so when hees home, you might give him what he wants?¡± Mia blinked. She fell silent for a moment. "Jade, I think your analysis is very reasonable." Jade said, "Of course. I''m telling you, don''t act rashly, observe him for a while. Don¡¯t give in easily." Mia nodded in agreement again, "Jade, how do you know so much without being in a rtionship or married?" "Chad taught me that." Chad often dealt with juvenile delinquents. Many girls got into trouble because they were head over heels in love. Every time he saw those girls who wasted their lives for love, he was furious. When he came home, he''d give his sister a rundown. Over time, Jade had heard many cases and understood much about society. Mia turned to look at Jade, "Tell me some more interesting cases." "Okay. I''ll tell you a story about a rich man..." Late into the night, Jade was telling Mia about cases, but Mia was drifting off. Andre''s face started N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. popping into her head. What was he doing without her at home? Was he missing her? The moon rose in the sky, stars scattered. Without realizing, everyone indoors fell asleep. At the Cedillo Mansion, Andre was feeling out of ce in the marital bedroom without his significant other. He was used to the sound of a hairdryer interrupting his reading, used to someone pacing around in front of him, used to someone sharing mundane life details with him. Suddenly, he was all alone in the room. Without his Kittemia by his side, he couldn''t sleep. So, he went to his study, workingte into the night. In the early morning, before heading to school, Leo went to find Andre, "Your wife told me to bring her today''s textbooks." Mia had called him the night before to bring her study materials. Leo had no choice but toply. Andre returned to the bedroom, found a few books on his wife''s vanity, and handed them to Leo. "Bring her home after school. Don¡¯t let her return to her mom''s." "I''ll try, but I can''t beat her." Boys often feel ashamed admitting they can''t beat a girl, but when Leo says he can''t beat Mia, his tone is as casual as saying "nice weather today". After all, he''s been losing to her for over a decade. Andre didn¡¯t give him a hard time. After handing over the books, he drove off to the office. As soon as he got off the elevator, everyone he saw smiled and said, "Congrattions, Mr. Cedillo." Andre frowned. Why the congrattions when his Kittemia had run off in a huff? Even Alice congratted him. Andre asked, "What am I being congratted for?" Alice was surprised, "Mrs. Cedillo hasn''t told you?" Did he spill the beans and ruin the surprise for the CEO? Andre asked, "What''s Mia supposed to tell me?" Seeing that everyone in the CEO''s office knew, Alice had no choice but to confess, "Mrs. Cedillo is pregnant." "Pft, cough, cough", Andre was startled into coughing. Andre asked again, "Mia''s pregnant?" Alice confirmed, "Last Saturday, Mrs. Cedillo called me asking for ces you frequent. She said she wanted to surprise you¡ªthat she¡¯s pregnant." Andre was totally speechless. How clever his wife is! "Don''t go spreading this stuff anymore. Just to set the record straight, Mrs. Cedillo isn''t pregnant. We were just ying hide and seek." Alice looked at him, disbelief written all over her face. Andre sent Alice away. Suddenly, he called her back. "Hold on a sec." Alice halted, turned around, and respectfully asked, "Mr. Cedillo, is there anything else?" "Alice, what am I supposed to do if a girl gets angry again?" Chapter 141 Chapter 141 This time, Alice was speechless. Why did Mr. Cedillo always manage to tick off his wife? Alice asked, "Boss, what did you do this time to piss off Mrs. Cedillo?¡± Andre simply said, "Jealousy." He exined delicately to Alice his mistake and expressed how furious his wife was, mentioning she didn''te homest night. Upon hearing this, Alice said to Andre, "Mr. Cedillo, if I were Mrs. Cedillo, I¡¯d make you regret." Andre was speechless. He was indeed regretting it like hell. "How long will she be mad?" Alice: "Hard to say. If it''s Mrs. Cedillo, I''d say at least two weeks." Mr. Cedillo regretted his actions once again. "I see. You may leave." After finishing her morning sses, Mia had lunch in the school cafeteria. She could feel people covertly observing her from behind, discussing her identity and the man she married. "Annoying Andre, awful Andre, so irritating." Eating her lunch, Mia suddenly burst out in a girlish tantrum. Leo turned and asked, "What did he do this time?" ¡°Isn¡¯t it enough that he¡¯s handsome, why does he also have to be sopetent?¡± Jade asked, "Are you showing off?¡± "No way! I''m criticizing him." However, her criticisms sounded more likepliments. Mia felt as if she had been cursed. "Andre asked me to take you home today. Are you still angry? If you are, just let me know. I won''t force you." Leo said while eating. He didn''t dare to force Mia, because forcing her might result in getting punched. Mia responded loudly, "Of course I''m still angry." She continued, "He asked you to take me home? Am I your wife or his? Can''t he take me home himself?" Mia ate more food in her anger, her belly bloated like a little round ball. Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Sitting in the ssroom, she looked at her bulging stomach and felt even worse. "Why does a rocky love life have to ruin my figure too?" Jade eyed her belly, "Mia, this man was your choice, but the fat on your belly is your own doing." Jade wanted to tell her, you can be angry with a man, but never with food. After speaking, she took out a packet of sour candy and gave one to Mia, "Have a piece of candy, cheer up a little." Mia couldn''t resist the temptation and took it. "Leo, I want ice cream." "Leo, I want strawberry pudding." The two of them seemed to have conspired, ordering Leo back and forth. This is why Leo didn''t want to be in the same ss with them. They wouldn''t share the good stuff with him; when they needed a gopher, it was always him. "Do you want anything else?" Mia said, "Get another bag of chips." Jade added, "And a pack of jelly." Leo left the room with his phone in hand. Seizing the opportunity, he decided to give Andre a heads-up. He called Andre. "You might have to pick up your wife in person." Leo told Andre everything he had heard during lunch. Andre asked, "Did she really say that?" Leo nodded, "I was right there." "Alright, I got it." Andre finally figured out how to appease his adorable wife. He had never been in love before. His friends'' love affairs were adult-style, adhering to the principle of money above all. If a woman was unhappy, they would appease her with money. Clearly, his adorable wife did not buy into this. Moreover, others only used money to maintain their lovers, but he had to maintain a wife! Only sincerity would appease her. Mia only had two hours of professional sses in the afternoon. When school was over, it was not even four o''clock. When Jade and Mia nned to have another meal outside, Chad arrived. He stood at the ssroom door in his police uniform, waiting for the teacher to finish ss. Seeing Chad''s visit, Jade pouted sulkily. "Mia, our date today might be canceled." Mia saw the man outside and said, "I know." After the bell rang and the teacher left, Chad immediately entered the ssroom. Jade rested her face in her hands, watching him approach. "I have a date with Mia today." Chad was about to help her pack up her desk, but suddenly found there was nothing on her desk, not even a pen. "Did youe to school to study?" Chad asked. Jade quickly grabbed Mia''s book to show her brother, "I was with Miast night. All my books are at home, so Mia and I share a book in ss. All the notes in the book are my handwriting. She''s the one who didn''t study at all!" Miained, "Jade, you''re such a terrible friend." Jade spoke the truth, "My brother will discipline me, but no one disciplines you." "Who says no one disciplines me? Isn''t my husband a person?" Jade said,"Andre is racking his brains on how to appease you these days. Does he dare to discipline you?" "Jade is right." Leo concluded. The three friends started to argue. Only Chad picked up Mia''s book and started reading. He flipped through a few pages and found a picture of Andre. His handsome face was marked with sses, horns, vampire teeth, and cat whiskers, making him look like a monster. Below the picture, the word ''bastard'' was written inrge letters. Chad recognized the handwriting was not his sister''s. He flipped to the next page. Indeed, some words were written by Jade, but most of her writing was annotations on the text. He couldn''t judge whether she was really studying in ss. "Jade, someone is looking for you at the door." Someone shouted to Jade in the ssroom. The three friends stopped arguing and looked at the door simultaneously. It was a man. Chad also looked up at the man at the door who was looking for his sister. Jade got up, ready to go greet the man, but was pulled back by Chad to sit down. His gaze was fixed on the man who walked in the door. "What do you need from me?" Jade asked. The man seemed very smooth, and his attitude towards Jade was very enthusiastic, "Jade, I heard you don''t have any ssesing up. Today is the premiere of the movie Fading Trails. Would you like to go see it with me?" Hearing this, Mia and Leo both raised their eyebrows slightly, their eyes sparkling with mischievous amusement. They huddled together and whispered, "Someone''s got the hots for our Jade." "This guy seems a bit unreliable," Leomented. Chapter 142 Chapter 142 Mia took a sidelong nce at the man in a police uniform standing next to her. "Don''t worry, there''s no need for us to intervene. This dude will vanish within three minutes". She signaled Leo to start the timer. Chad, with a frown on his face, closed his book. His job naturally gave him an air of authority. He was the type that made bad guys pee their pants. So when an ordinary college student saw him, he didn''t dare to meet his gaze. He asked Chad, "Who are you?" Chad ced a hand on the student''s shoulder, squeezing it subtly. "So, you''re nning to take my sister to the movies, huh?" The pain on the guy''s shoulder quickly spread throughout his body. In front of Jade, he was too embarrassed to cry out in pain, so he gritted his teeth and bore it. However, the severe pain made his legs weak. Was this guy nning to crush his shoulder? "Sorry! I... I won''t go," "What did you just say?" Hearing his plea, Chad got even angrier. This time he pressed down on the guy''s shoulder forcefully, as if trying to make him kneel on the ground. Every time she saw this kind of scene, Mia couldn''t help but envy men. Men were naturally stronger. She had been knocked down countless times by her master when she was a kid, just because she wasn''t strong enough. And then there was Andre. Every time he pinned her down, she couldn''t push him off. Jade also witnessed the strength of her brother. She felt deep sympathy for the guy who was trying to woo her. "You better leave. I have to go home with my brother today." Mia and Leo at the side began toment again. Mia said, "Listen to that, what ame excuse!" The guy couldn''t bear the pain any longer, he wanted to run even before Jade had finished speaking. Jade''s brother was a cop and he was extremely protective of her. He wouldn''t dare to chase after Jade anymore. "So... see you another time." The guy nced at Chad and said, "Chad, I''m leaving, right now." Chad replied with a harsh tone, "Go. I don''t want to see you around my sister anymore." As soon as Chad''s hand left the student''s shoulder, he turned and ran, not looking back, as if there was a wolf chasing him. Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. "Did three minutes pass?" Mia nced at the timer on Leo''s phone. Leo answered, "Two minutes and fifty-seven seconds." Jade pouted and huffily let Chad lead her away. Once they were in the car, Chad asked her, "Which college is that guy from? Which department? Which ss? What''s his name?" Jade answered, "He''s from the business school, a junior, I think he''s in ss one, his name is Eaton." Chad was about to drive home. But when he heard her answer, he immediately turned off the car, turned around, and looked at her sternly, "What''s your rtionship with him? Why do you know so much about him? Are you two together? Do you like him? Jade, we''re not paying for your education so you can date." Jade felt wronged. She punched Chad and yelled at him in anger, "Don''t you trust me? Did you see me liking him? Did you see us dating? I like your apprentice, don''t you know!" "He''s so ugly, why do you like him?" Chad was also very angry. Jade hade to pick him up from the police station a while ago, but he was too busy catching criminals and had no time to apany her, so he had his apprentice Donnie apany her. Unexpectedly, these two somehow developed feelings for each other and even exchanged contact information. It wasn''t until Jade and Donnie were chatting up a storm that he realized there was a problem between these two. That night, he was so angry he didn''t eat dinner. He stormed into Jade''s room and forced her to delete Donnie''s contact information. The next day, he took Donnie''s phone and deleted all of Jade''s contact information from it. Chad told him, "If you weren''t a promising talent in the police force and contributed a little to society, I wouldn''t be so lenient." Donnie couldn''t even get up from the ground, his whole body felt like it had been broken. All he could do was nod his head in agreement, not daring to talk back. After that, the twopletely cut off contact. Jade tried to meet Donnie at the police station again, but Chad was always there. Every time Jade appeared, he would immediately take her home within five minutes. The male cops at the station were all attracted to Jade. Jade was the most beautiful girl they had ever seen, so many wanted to be Chad''s brother-inw. If it weren''t for his stern attitude, they would have made their moves on Jade long ago. "Jade, if you like Donnie again, I''ll transfer him to a remote vige." "Why are you even more annoying than Mia''s husband?" Meanwhile, Mr. Cedillo also arrived at Havenbrook University. He was there to pick up his lovely wife. Andre looked at the map on his phone, driving slowly towards his destination. He had previously visited Havenbrook University for a lecture, but he had school leaders apanying him then, so he didn''t need to remember the route. This time, he was here to pick up his lovely wife and apologize to her, so it was inconvenient to have others apany him. Looking at the map on his phone, he adjusted the direction of the car and continued to drive slowly. However, Mia in the ssroom wasn''t ready to go home so soon. She was lying on the desk, using her book as a pillow. When Andre arrived at the ssroom door, he saw a small figure lying on the desk. Just by looking at the back of her head, Andre knew it was his wife. Seeing Andre appear, Leo "wisely" got up and gave up his seat. As ss had just ended, there were still many students in the ssroom summarizing the knowledge points from the lecture. So, when Andre appeared, the students in the ssroom were all shocked. Some even exaggeratedly flipped open their textbooks topare the picture of Andre with the man himself. Some students were so excited that they couldn''t even make a sound. Their feet kicked irregrly on the floor as they stared at the sudden appearance of the man. Some quickly pulled out their phones, hastily recording this historic moment. ...... However, Andre was oblivious to the reactions around him. All his focus was on one person. In the tiered ssroom, Andre circled around from the front of the podium and stopped in the middle of the ssroom. Mia was looking towards the window, and Andre slowly appeared in her line of sight from that direction. Mia shot up from her chair in shock, craning her neck to look at the tall dude who had suddenly appeared by her side. She blinked in disbelief. No way, he, he, he... he can''t be a figment of her imagination, can he? Could staring at the lights for too long have given her the willies? Chapter 143 Chapter 143 Mia blinked twice again. She watched as the man crouched down and sat on the bench next to her. He was so close to her. ¡°Honey... no, Andre! Why are you here?¡± Mia blurted out the name she was most used to calling him, but as soon as she saw his face, her anger red up again. She called him by his full name to show her anger was still there. Andre: ¡°Shouldn¡¯t Ie to pick up my wife when she finishes school?¡± ¡°Who said I''m your wife? Weren''t you with Leo..." "Wait! Mia, I have nothing to do with you. I don''t know anything. I''m leaving, don''t mention me or look for me again." Leo quickly cut off Mia''s words to defend himself. Then he picked up a stack of books on the table and hurried away. Mia was a bit confused, "Why is Leo avoiding me? I won''t hit him." Andre answered for Leo, "He''s afraid I''ll hit him." Mia turned her head and red at Andre angrily. In the ssroom, Andre''s business attire gave off a distinct aura of nobility. But now, he was just smiling at this sweet little girl. ¡°Mia, want toe to the office with me?¡± ¡°No thanks. There are loads of women at your office. Just find one of them to y with.¡± Andre: "¡­ Babe, don''t be angry. I know I messed upst time, I promise it won''t happen again, okay?" Mia shook her head, "No way. How can you just say be angry and be angry, say not be angry and not be angry? Didn''t you want me to be jealous? But you''re the one who ended up suffering." Andre began to gently rub Mia''s back, hoping she would cool off. Someone in the ssroom filmed their interaction and posted the video on the forum. The Havenbrook University forum was always bustling. The footage of Andre coaxing Mia quickly became the talk of the town. ¡°Where is that ssroom? We want to go see.¡± ¡°Me too.¡± "Me as well!" "And me!" ... Someone on the forum posted their location. Before long, the previously empty ssroom was full of people. The students all pretended to be engrossed in their books. But in reality, their hearts and eyes were fixed on the couple. More and more people came. The ssroom was full. So, someone picked up an eraser and pretended to clean the ckboard. Then more people came. There were more and more people pretending to clean the ckboard. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. So, a student picked up a broom. Then someone else came with a mop. ... Andre knew why they were there. He gently cooed to his angry wife, ¡°Let''s go to the office first. We''re disturbing the other students in the ssroom.¡± The other students were taken aback when they heard this. Was this the behavior of a business tycoon? Mia also noticed that something was off with the number of people around. She controlled her emotions, stood up, slung her bag over her arm, and reached for her books. Andre took the bag from her arm and helped her pick up the three books from the table. His other hand was holding hers. They were about to leave the ssroom. Just as they reached the ssroom door, a brave student stood up and blocked their path. "Mr. Cedillo... Can I have your autograph? I really admire you. I''m a freshman at the business school. It was because of you that I chose to study economics. I really like you a lot!" Mia looked at the girl in front of her. She had the audacity to say she liked her husband right in front of her! She was furious. Jealousy surged within her. ¡°An autograph? Are you here to be a idter or to study?¡± Mia, the newly appointed Principal, was pissed off. The girl was frightened to tears by Mia''s outburst. Andre, however, was enjoying his wife''s fiery temper. ¡°Mia, I just admire your husband...¡± the girl said trembling. Mia arrogantly replied, ¡°My husband can only be admired by me. Don''t you have a husband?¡± ¡°...No.¡± ¡°Don''t you have a boyfriend then?¡± The girl shook her head again, ¡°No.¡± Mia was stumped. She retorted, ¡°Since you don''t have a boyfriend, you should go find one. What''s the point of admiring someone else''s husband?¡± Thta girl was speechless. Andre, holding Mia with one arm,forted her, ¡°Baby, I won''t give her an autograph, I''ll only sign for you, okay? No need to be jealous.¡± ¡°Ugh! I''m not jealous.¡± Mia denied adamantly. ¡°Okay okay, you''re not jealous. I''m the one who''s jealous. Let''s go, to the office.¡± Andre didn''t spare another nce at the girl, he just held Mia''s hand and left. Back in the car, he put her bag and books in the back seat. Then he got in the car, buckled up Mia''s seat belt. ¡°Honey,e home with me today?¡± he asked her up close. Mia pouted, ¡°I''m going home because I miss Hansen, not because I''ve forgiven you. You''re sleeping in the study tonight.¡± ¡°There''s no bed in the study.¡± Mr. Cedillo said. Mia remembered the couch that she once used as a bed, ¡°Didn''t you have the housekeeper remove my ''bed''? When I get home, I''ll have the housekeeper move that couch to your study.¡± Mia''s bedroom was huge. There were three couches, one of which she once used as a bed, until Andre had it removed. Because the couch was gone, her bedroom felt much more spacious. Andre said, ¡°I can sleep on the floor in the bedroom.¡± Mia gave a perfunctory smile, then said something that made him angry, ¡°In your dreams!¡± Even if that empty spot was used for storing clutter, she would never let him sleep there. Andre sighed, but in the end, he couldn''t help but kiss those annoying little lips. ¡°Hey, Andre, aren''t we supposed to be giving each other the cold shoulder? Why are you kissing me?¡± Andre''s kiss was gentle. This time, he didn¡¯t forcibly kiss her by holding the back of her head. Instead, he lightly kissed her lips. Mia tried to push her husband away. But he was much stronger than her. He only let go of the angry Mia after he had his fill. To him, her iling and struggling just now was like a kitty scratching in his arms. She was absolutely adorable. ¡°Andre, you really don¡¯t know how to date!¡± Andre replied, ¡°I really haven''t had any dating experience.¡± ¡°You''re lying! Don''t you have ex-girlfriends?¡± Andre fired up the car, taking off with Mia. "If I had an ex-girlfriend, I wouldn''t have you." Chapter 144 Chapter 144 Mia was d her husband didn''t have any exes, but was upset that he seemed to look down on her. So, the poor driving hubby got his fair share of scratches from his feisty kitty, Mia. Upon reaching the office, Andre led Mia by the hand to the elevator. "So, I heard I''m bing a ''daddy'' again?" Mia felt a little guilty thinking about what happened on Saturday. Andre asked, "Is it a girl or a boy you''re carrying this time?" Mia replied,"It''s my anger this time." Andre cast a quick look at Mia, who had lowered her gaze. "Nice," he remarked, his voice gaining an edge. As they stepped out of the elevator, all people in the office turned their attention to the pair. The way everyone stared made Mia think back to the question Andre had posed inside the elevator. Did they all know about her supposed "pregnancy"? A wave of anxiety washed over her. She gripped Andre''s hand more firmly, taking refuge behind him. "Honey," she whispered, "does everyone know?" "Yes, they all know." Mia was on the verge of tears. She hadn''t expected the news to spread so fast. She had only told a white lie. "What should I do then? I don''t have anything in my belly." Andre felt needed at that moment. "Tell them your anger has subsided, so there''s no anger in your belly." "How do I exin that? I... honey~" Whenever Mia encountered a problem she couldn''t solve, she started to act cute with Andre. "Honey~ what should I do?" Andre chuckled as he guided Mia into his office. Outside, the employees worked undisturbed, seemingly oblivious to their presence. Inside, Mia''s anxiety grew. "Honey, should I juste clean to them?" Andre replied, "They won''t buy it." Growing more desperate, Mia grabbed the papers from Andre''s grasp, disrupting his focus. "So, should I admit I deceived them?" Andre responded, "That won''t help either." He tried to continue reviewing the documents, but Mia intervened, closing the folder and forcing him to meet her worried gaze. "If word gets out, it''ll spell trouble for everyone." "I can help you with your lie, but you have to promise me, let me sleep in the bedroom tonight." "Deal! I promise you." Mia agreed readily. Triumphant, Andre got up and left the office. He stood in front of the drink cab in themon rest area, picking out a drink for his cute wife. Alice came over and asked, "Mr. Cedillo, you''ve managed to pacify Mrs. Cedillo so quickly?" Andre chuckled to himself. He had been hatching a n in the elevator. Why did he bring up her lie in the elevator? It was to nt a seed of guilt in her. Once out of the elevator, when Mia saw everyone staring at her, her heart would panic. Once panicked, she would lose all reason. Now all she wanted was to exin quickly and avoid any misunderstandings. This was exactly what he wanted. Make him sleep in the study? No way! "Besides the peach vor, which other one is good?" Alice pointed to a bottle of green apple soda, "Let Mrs. Cedillo have a refreshing drink." "Pick another one." Andre thought, if Mia had a refreshing drink and regained her senses, his cunning n would be revealed. Alice picked a grapefruit-vored drink and handed it to Andre. "How about this one?" "Fine." Andre grabbed two bottles of drinks, wasted some time outside, then returned to the office. Mia rushed over, asking anxiously, "Honey, how did it go?" "The misunderstanding is cleared." Mia let out a sigh of relief, patting her small chest, "Thank goodness." Andre unscrewed the drink bottle and handed it to her. "Sit on the sofa and wait for me. When I finish up, I''ll take you out for a treat." Mia sipped her drink and settled on the sofa. As she did, Andre couldn''t help but smile, charmed by her yful actions. Throughout his work, he''d asionally steal nces at Mia lounging on the sofa. Growing restless, Mia explored the room, even pulling a few documents from his bookcase. Upon realizing they were innguages she couldn''tprehend, she returned them, her face wrinkling in mild frustration. She then drifted to the window, gazing out with childlike wonder. Eventually, she reclined on the sofa, her gaze fixed on the ceiling, boredom evident. Her drink empty, she reached for another bottle. As she struggled with the cap, Andre watched, an amused smirk forming on his face. Lost in the simple joy of observing her, minutes flew by for Andre. He then tapped on his desk to get her attention. Mia looked over when she heard the noise. "Honey?" Andre beckoned her over. Mia walked over and handed him the drink. After he opened it, he gave it back to Mia.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Mia yfully stuck out her tongue, then ran off with her drink. She sat on the sofa, sometimes ying with her phone, sometimes picking at her nails, sometimes spacing out. Suddenly, as if she had figured something out, she turned to ask him, "Honey, I am Mrs. Cedillo, right?" Andre said, "Is that even a question?" Mia frowned, mumbling, "Since I''m Mrs. Cedillo, even if your employees know I lied, they wouldn''t dare to discuss me, right?" With Andre being so strict, how could his subordinates dare to offend her? "Honey, did you lie to me earlier?" Andre calmly yed dumb, "Lie about what?" Mia frowned. In her logic, this response meant he was innocent. If he had indeed lied to her, he would instinctively answer "No", not ask her "Lie about what?" Could it be... he didn''t lie to her earlier? "How did you exin it earlier when you went out?" Andre said, "I don''t need to exin, I just need to give orders." Mia felt something was off the more she thought about it. She felt like she had been tricked, but she couldn''t figure out exactly how. Upon seeing her begin to think seriously, Andre put down his work, got up, and promptly interrupted her reasoning, "I went to a restaurant a few days ago while entertaining clients, and thought their Mexican food was pretty good. Wanna try?" Mia licked her lips. With that, Andre put down his work, grabbed the car keys, and once again led his cute wife out by the hand. "Honey, can you get me another drinkter? I want peach vor." Andre stepped out of the office, taking Mia with him to the break room again. He grabbed three drinks, "Enough?" Chapter 145 Chapter 145 Mia also reached out and grabbed two bottles from the drink cab. "One for today, one for tomorrow, one for Jade... I can''t forget about Leo... Hansen loves it too... My sister-inw needs one too..." After doing some math, she was short. So, she grabbed another one. "One, two, three, four, five, six! Just enough." Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Mia counted, then broke into a satisfied smile. When Andre heard her talking like this, he realized she had considered her family and friends too. Andre took all the drinks from her arms and put them back in their ce. "Huh? Babe, you''re not letting me drink!" Miained. Instead, Andre went outside and instructed Alice, "Send two cases of peach-vored drinks to my house." "Maplewood Estates or Cedillo Mansion?" "Cedillo Mansion." Mia couldn''t help butugh when she heard her husband was buying her a whole case of drinks. At that moment, she really wanted to kiss Andre. But she held back! Ever since that experience, whenever Mia visited his office, she would pick a drink to put on his desk and let him ce the order to be sent to Cedillo Mansion. Not only was Mia happy at home, but Hansen was also thrilled. He thought Mia was simply amazing. Every type of drink was different. He even rmended many to his friends. "Harry, let me rmend a drink to you! It''s one my daughter-inw rmended. It''s really good." "Isaac, did you see the drink I posted on Instagram? It''s really good." "Simon,e to my house, I''ll treat you to a drink." ... But that''s beside the point. Currently, the silent treatment between Mia and her husband hadn''tpletely ended. When they went out to eat, Mia saw that Andre was behaving well, so she looked at him a bit more kindly. At this point, even if she tried to pretend to be angry, she couldn''t, so she could only express her feelings as she pleased. When she first found out about his deception, she was really furious, almost burning down Cedillo Mansion in her rage. After two days, facing her husband''s constant pampering, she wasn''t really that angry anymore. Mia thought she was really great, in looks, as a person, and in personality. Andre was lucky to have her. After eating, Mia returned home, lost in her self-admiration. Hansen warmly weed her return. "Why didn''t you call me when you went out yesterday? I wanted to go to the night market with you." Mia responded bluntly, "I was angry yesterday. If we took you with us, I would have to take care of you. Then I wouldn''t have had a chance to vent my anger." Hansen asked, "Are you still angry?" Mia nodded, "A little bit." Hansen nced at Andre sitting on the sofa, feeling a bit dissatisfied. He always felt that Andre wasn''t good enough for Mia. Andre sensed Hansen''s resentment. He stood and said, "I''m going to the bedroom." Naomi happened toe downstairs. Seeing the couple, she asked, "Is Mia still angry?" Andre nodded, "I''ll think of a way to coax her." Mia had only been away from home for a day, but it felt like a long time had passed. Everyone was fussing over her. Mia sat in the middle of the living room, receiving everyone''s concern. Leo also came over. Looking at the woman who was treated like a treasure, he felt like Mia had cast a spell on their whole family. Without a daughter, Naomi often treated Mia like her own. When she had something inappropriate to say to a man, she talked to Mia. With Mia''spany, she often declined invites from friends outside. Even when she did meet up with other friends once in a while, they always wanted her to bring Mia along for afternoon tea. Naomi had lived in high society for a long time. She knew very well what those women wanted. They approached her because her husband was the mayor of Havenbrook and their families needed Bruce''s help. They wanted to get close to Mia because of her husband Andre. Events in thepany, like Austin''s situation and Andre''s partnership with Richard Co., made Mia the target of secret investigations by Havenbrook socialites. Many attempted to use their rtionship with Naomi to get to Mia. Many even hoped to visit Mia at Cedillo Mansion. Naomi declined for her. Mia was oblivious to all of this. She didn''t think her life had changed at all. The people around her were still the same. Once, after Naomi had declined some more invitations for Mia, Bruce asked her, "Aren''t you tired of turning down these invites for Mia?" Naomi agreed with her husband. "I do feel a bit worn out. But Mia''s still a student. She wouldn''t be able to handle those crafty people. If they pressure her too much, she might deal with it in her own way. If I don''t help her, who will?" Naomi didn''t want Mia''s innocence to be ruined by these people''splex social interactions. Bruce asked her again, "Mia needs to grow up. With Andre, she''ll definitely have to attend many social events in the future." "That depends on how much Andre can handle," Naomi said like a worried mother. "Actually, I do want Mia to know what society is really like." Bruce was surprised. Naomi said, "She was well protected by the Irvin family growing up and only saw the good side of the world. Whenever something doesn''t go her way, she thinks confronting it directly will solve it. She''s sharp-tongued and has a quick temper, but that''s because shecks experience. People in society are not what they seem. Mia is straightforward and simple-minded. What if someone takes advantage of that and uses her as a tool?" Naomi remembered how she was used by Jillian. Blindly trusting someone was dangerous. "I hope she''ll be able to tell good people from bad ones in the future, and still stand by her beliefs. I hope she can be worldly-wise while remaining innocent." Bruce chuckled at his wife, "You''re always looking for trouble. How can you be so sure that Mia is just a naive little girl in front of others?" Naomi thought Mia was innocent, but Bruce believed that Mia only showed her true self in front of family. When she dealt with others, how could such a savvy girl like her be easily fooled? As to what Mia''s personality really was, they were still in the dark. Hansen didn''t want to delve into this. All he had in mind were the snacks at the night market. Andre, on the other hand, gave up trying to figure out Mia''s character. He knew that this little girl would always remain a mystery to him. She could sweetly call him "honey", but in the next second, she would scold him, calling him "Andre". When she praised him, it always made him feel like she was mocking him. But when she mocked him, he found it amusing. Chapter 146 Chapter 146 She''s like a mystery box, this girl. You never know what''s going on in her head, you just gotta roll with it. In the bedroom. Atst, Andre got to crash on the bed, just like he wanted. The hairdryer started humming as he''s reading. His wife was drying her hair, sometimes whispering things that piss him off, but also sharing funny things that happened during the day. "Honey, ever since Jade got the title of school belle, she''s been quite the catch. Today as we were leaving school, a guy asked her out for a movie. But the guy had the worst timing! Of all times, he had to ask her out when her brother Chad was there. Chad''s like a hawk when ites to Jade, he wouldn''t let her get picked on. No way he would let some random dude take his sister out." Listening to his wife, he felt content while reading. "So, did the guy have any luck in the end?" The hairdryer stopped. She sat in front of the mirror, applying skincare products. Then she got up, kicked off her shoes at the end of the bed, and scurried to the head of the bed like a little animal. Andre pulled back the covers. Mia slipped right in. She settled beside her husband and continued, "No way, Jose. Chad''s got her under his thumb, any guy wanting to ask her out would have to get past him first. I bet that guy nearly wet his pants today." Inside the nket, Andre felt a foot brushing against his leg. He looked over at the little girl who seemed a bit lost. Mia apologized for her carelessness, "Sorry honey, I didn''t mean to kick you." With that, Andre stretched his leg under his wife''s foot on purpose, letting her kick him. "Hmm?" Mia looked at her husband, puzzled. Andre frowned, "Why are your feet so cold?" Mia didn''t know what to say. So now, her husband was trying to warm her feet with his leg? Andre put down his book, his hands reaching for his wife''s soft hands. Her hands were warm, but her feet were cold. He''d heard that if your hands and feet are cold, you should see a doctor. Mia''s feet were freezing after she got out of the bath, so he quickly grabbed her hands to check. If her hands were also cold, they would need to see a doctor first thing in the morning. After warming up a bit, her feet gradually returned to normal temperature and Andre went back to his reading, picking up the book from the bedside table.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Mia leaned over curiously, "Honey, you''re always reading. What are you reading?" She peeked at the content of the book, finding many phrases she didn''t understand. "The Odyssey." Mia said, "And who is this Odysseus?" She knew she was being fobbed off by her husband again. Andre replied, "He''s in the book." Mia flipped through the book but found no clue. "Can you trante for me then, what''s this book about?" Andre said, "If I trante for you, I need some benefits." He looked at his wife''s red lips, "Haven''t you given me my benefits for today?" "I did, you forgot? In the car, you kissed me. I remember clearly, I didn''t let you kiss me." Mia retorted passionately. She almost wanted to transfer her memory into her husband''s brain, to let him remember clearly what happened today, to stop taking advantage of her. However, in the end, she was kissed. Mia gave up resisting. This man hadn''t even exined the story in the book to her yet, but he''d already taken his benefits. She cursed her husband a few times. In the evening,fortably lying in bed, he didn''t go into his study. After Mia drifted off, Andre gazed at her serene face and gently kissed her lips. His intentions to give her neck a yful nip turned more passionate, leaving a conspicuous mark behind. Examining the mark, a shadow passed over Andre''s face. He thought, "She''s going to be livid in the morning." And he wasn''t wrong. The next morning, Mia noticed the mark while freshening up. At first, she assumed it was an insect bite. But the realization hit her when sheter encountered Andre''s sheepish look. Mia knew what had happened. She picked up a pillow from the bed and threw it at her husband, "You jerk!" "Mia, aren''t you hot in that turtleneck?" Leo teased at the dining table. Mia gritted her teeth and threatened, "Do you want a beating?" Leo said, " Don''t scare me, this is my house." "Isn''t this Mia''s house too?" Andre chimed in. Leo shut up. Indeed, to discipline a little brat, you need to bring out the big guns. But who can control Mr. High and Mighty, Mr. Cedillo? His wife, that''s who. "You shut up too!" Andre got yelled at by his wife at the dining table. Knowing he''d done wrong, Andre chose to keep quiet, feeling a little guilty. Leo watched this in shock, his uncle who wasn''t afraid of anything was being bullied by his strong- willed wife? When he looked at Mia again, he was a bit nervous. Did this woman reallyy a hand on my uncle? On the way to school, Andre offered to drive her, but Mia rejected him without hesitation. She picked up her little bag and books, and climbed into Leo''s passenger seat. "Mia, did you really hit my uncle?" "Mhm, sure did." "Then why isn''t there any injury on his face?" Leo asked curiously, noticing his uncle''s wless face. Mia donned her sunsses and confidently lowered the top of the convertible. Basking in the sunlight, she proimed, "It''s all internal." Leo was momentarily at a loss for words. He felt like giving Mia a thumbs up. She had the power to inflict both external and internal distress on Andre with her fiery temperament. Was there anything she couldn''t achieve? Upon reaching school, they noticed Jade, who appeared drained. Spotting Mia, Jade made an effort to seem more upbeat, offering a soft "Hi." Momentster, she rested her head, signaling her intent to grab some shut-eye. Mia and Leo exchanged a nce, looking at Jade, "Jade, what did you dost night? You look so down." Leo asked. Mia asked, "Did you go digging up graves again?" Leo gave Jade a round of apuse and asked, "Really? How many generations deep?" Jade: "All of them." After she said that, Jade wasn''t sleepy anymore. She sat up from the desk and started recounting her experience from yesterday to her two friends. "My brother, Chad, is definitely a Virgo!" Leo suddenly remembered his own zodiac sign, realizing he was a Virgo too, and he instantly got all gloomy. "What did Virgos ever do to you?" Jade clenched her fists and growled, "Do you guys remember the dude who asked me out to the movies yesterday?" The two by her side simultaneously nodded, "Of course, we do. Chad scared him off in just under two minutes fifty-seven seconds." Jade gritted her teeth in anger, "And that''s not even the worst part! Chad went home yesterday and spent a good two hours digging up every little detail about that guy''s family background. Who he has spent the night with at which hotel? When he''s been hitting the bars for dates? And get this! He even found out that the guy was ying three different girls at the same time!" The two on the side were speechless. Their eyes were pleading for one thing, spill the tea! Chapter 147 Chapter 147 Jade had been griping about her brother to these two for nearly ten minutes. She was like, ¡°And you know what else? He makes my adorable boy sound like a total jerk. You should know that he was quite popr at police academy! My folks are all for me dating, but he''s always dead set against it, and always tries to throw a wrench in my ns! Last night, he even went so far as to keep me from hanging out with you guys.¡± Mia, with a determined glint in her eyes, rolled up her sleeves. "Jade, when does he finish work today? We''re going to set things straight with him." There was no way she was letting Jade¡¯s brother meddle in her friendships. Jade sighed, "He''s convinced that seeing you settled down will make me jealous and push me to rush into a rtionship. And with Leo being a guy, he thinks it''s not appropriate for us to be friends." Leo immediately jumped in, "But to you, I''m not really ''just a guy,'' right?" Jade replied exasperatedly, "Chad just doesn¡¯t understand. It frustrated me so muchst night. Why did I have to get a brother who''s always trying to control my life? Sometimes I wish I didn¡¯t have a brother at all!" Mia, after hearing Jade''sints, could empathize. She turned to Leo and said: ¡°Leo, I was thinking the same thing this morning, why does your family have to have a guy like Andre?¡± Leo: What did we do wrong? Jade was curious about Mia''s story and asked, ¡°Did you make up with your husband when you got Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. homest night?¡± Mia shook her head. ¡°We were almost there, but then things hit the fan again.¡± This jerk can¡¯t control his desires. Even when she was sleeping, he still kissed her and left such a tant mark on her neck?! Would her entire body be covered in his marks next? Jade and Leo both looked at her curiously. Mia hinted, ¡°Guess why I''m wearing a turtleneck.¡± They didn''t say anything, looking a little awkward. For some reason, these two single friends immediately understood what Mia was hinting at. Even though they hadn¡¯t experienced anything like it, they immediately got her drift. ¡°You, you and him?!!¡± Jade looked torn, she had just told Mia the night before not to rush things with him, why would she¡­. Mia shook her head, ¡°Nothing happened. Remember, all men are scumbags, all of them. Except for Leo.¡± Leo didn¡¯t even have time to feel touched. Jade chimed in with the next line, ¡°Because Leo is our sweet little sister?!¡± Mia nodded. They were all pretty down for the entire morning. Until the afternoon, when a piece of news livened everyone up. These three people might have disagreements over little things in daily life, but they would always unite when it mattered. But there was one thing that they never disagreed on! That was about the Gold Level. What is Gold Level? That''s a secret. In Havenbrook, it''s an underground boxing club. No one knows who the organizer is. All they know is that it''s an underground boxing club. The gambling that takes ce here is strictly boxing rted. Many rich people woulde to watch upon hearing about the boxing gambling here. If they took a liking to anyone, they would directly hire them as bodyguards. Of course, it also depends on whether they want to do it. When they enter, they have to disguise themselves so well that even their own mothers wouldn''t recognize them. This was to avoid trouble. There isn''t just one gambling club here. This club has its own rules, with nine levels from beginner to advanced. The first level is the beginner level, where anyone can sign up. The second level is known as the Green Level, with 512 people holding the Green Pass. With such a The third level is known as the Indigo Level, where 256 people who have beaten half of the 512 Green Pass holders to gain the Indigo Pass. The fourth level is the Blue Level, with 128 card holders who have won among the 256 people at the Indigo Level to get the Blue Pass. The first four levels aren''t that important. Because it also depends on luck. In the initial four rounds,petitors are assigned randomly. As a result, while some may square off against as many as ten opponents, others might not face anypetition at all. Take Mia, for instance. She consistently seemed to attract challengers. In the preliminary rounds, she bested three opponents before finally earning her Green Pass. As she aimed to progress to the Indigo Level, she found herself up against five differentpetitors. However, the transition from the Indigo to the Blue Level proved most daunting: Mia was matched with eight individuals! To move forward, she needed to defeat each of them. A single loss would mean immediate disqualification. In the end, Mia went all out and defeated all eight people. She also sessfully made the other Mia''s code name here is "Mimi", she couldn¡¯t be bothered to think too much so she just tweaked her name a little. In this intense match, Mia was finally exhausted. Her wrist was nearly broken, but she refused to admit defeat, bearing the pain and fighting till the end to sessfully advance. After the match, shey on the ground unable to move. Jade was scared and crying for an ambnce, while Leo carried her straight to the hospital. In the hospital bed, Miaforted them, ¡°I''m fine, my arm won''t be useless.¡± Since the inception of this gambling club, only one individual had ever faced and triumphed over ten consecutive challengers. That person was a man. However, this challenger known as "Mimi" was a woman. Remarkably, she took on eight men and emerged victorious. That day, an unknown observer kept a close watch on the game. After her striking performance, the club''s insiders scrambled to unearth information about "Mimi." But Mia, as if she''d vanished into thin air, remained elusive. A whole year passed without a trace of her whereabouts, and every investigative lead hit a dead end. Only Leo and Jade were privy to the truth. Mia had dedicated that year to preparing for her university entrance exams. Once the tests were behind her, she finally resurfaced, reiming her freedom. But there were also people who got lucky and made it to the end, like Leo. He''s not the brightest, a bit of a scaredy cat, and has a soft personality, but man, his luck is off the charts. At the start of the game, he just threw thirty grand at hispetitor and waltzed away with a Green Pass, easy peasy. When he got his Indigo Pass, Mia was up there giving it her all. And him? He was just down there, cheering her on. Why wasn''t hepeting, you ask? Because they didn''t even assign him apetitor. He did absolutely nada, just gave Mia a couple of cheers, and bam - he got upgraded to an Indigo Pass, just like that. Moving from the Indigo to Blue Pass stage, Leo finally got apetitor. He was about to wave the white g when hispetitor, looking buff and all, suddenly clutched his stomach in pain and hit the deck before the match even started. Someone rushed him to the hospital, and just like that, Leo got bumped up to the Blue Level without lifting a finger. Meanwhile, Mia was out there sweating buckets, pushing herself to the limit just to get that Blue Pass. Of course, Jade had her own strategy to get the Blue Pass. It was all about the moh. Green Pass? Bought. Indigo Pass? p down some cash, and it''s yours! Blue Pass? Just throw more money at it! Chapter 148 Chapter 148 For a while, Chad watched his bank ount dwindle, penny after penny disappearing into thin air. He couldn''t help suspecting his little sister, Jade, was up to no good, like maybe getting into drugs. To confirm his suspicions, he even dragged her to the hospital for a blood test. But the results came back clean. She wasn''t a junkie. Chad asked her, "Where the hell did all the money go?" He wasn''t against Jade spending his money, but the suddenrge transfers to strangers made him worry she''d been scammed. He checked all her social ounts but found nothing amiss. Under Chad''s interrogation, Jade finally spilled the beans. "Bro, I bought a card." "What kind of card costs twenty grand?" Then, Jade, like a scared kitten, told Chad about the gambling game she was involved in. "Bro, you can''t expose this. We''re legit, it''s all above board." Chad said, "Try arguing back one more time!" Jade didn''t dare to speak again. In the end, he could do nothing as his sister spent all the money. Chad had to admit afterwards, though, that he was relieved his sister wasn''t an idiot. She knew how to use money to solve problems without resorting to fisticuffs, which would''ve been way too risky. Money''s gone, it''s gone. At least it made his sister happy. That was the only constion Chad could find. So that was how all three of them managed to gain entrance to the fifth level. The fifth level, also known as the Wood Level, just like the name implies, was the middle stage of the This stage required a remaining 64 contestants. The card for the Wood Level was called the Wood Pass. Starting from the Wood Level, allpetitions were conducted ording to the rules. Who fought whom was determined by the system based on everyone''s previous performance, including the way they advanced. Surprisingly, Leo''s opponent turned out to be Jade who bought her way in. Since they were both special cases, the system paired them together. Mia, eyeing the match-up,mented, "Good, I won¡¯t have to stress about either of you getting injured." After all, their familiarity meant they could finish the match amicably. Later, to everyone''s amusement, the pair decided to settle the match with Rock-Paper-Scissors on the rounds, which crowned her a Wood Level contestant and earned her the Wood Pass. An indignant spectator used them, "This is supposed to be a boxing contest, not a child¡¯s y." Jade shot back, "Rock-Paper-Scissors is yed with hands, right? And a fist is also a hand. So how is it against the rules?" Finding no w in Jade¡¯s logic, another spectator challenged her directly. Mia was quick to intervene, "I¡¯ll be her opponent." When the name "Mimi" was announced, a hush fell over the crowd. She was known to be invincible! It was known that only those possessing a Blue Pass or higher could witness the intense Wood Level matches and above. Above the Wood Level was the Red Level, a transitionalpetition from Wood Level to the higher matches. The Wood Level left 64 people, the Red Level left 32. Each of them had to give their all in the middle and high matches. People were eligible to challenge those of a higher level. If the challenge was sessful, the sessful person would take that person''s ce. The loser would have to swap ces with the challenger. For example, Leo currently had a Blue Pass. He was eligible to watch the Wood Level and higher matches, but couldn''t participate in the middle and high matches. Jade''s current level was Wood Pass. She won against Leo and rose in rank. If Leo wanted to challenge Jade, they couldpete if Jade agreed. If Leo won, he would take Jade''s Wood Pass. Jade would have to start over, upgrading from the Blue Pass level. If Leo lost, he would have to go back to the bottom and gradually upgrade. This was the punishment for those who actively requested a match and lost. However, Mia was already a high-level yer. Above the Red Level was the high-levelpetition. Ranked third was the Gold Level, only those with a Gold Pass could participate. Mia was a Gold Pass holder. After five years of hard work, she stood out from thousands of people and eventually obtained the Gold Pass. There were only 16 Gold Pass holders. In this field, Gold Pass holders were very scarce, and everyone had to respect them greatly, even making way for them. It took a great deal of effort to get a Gold Pass. With this Gold Pass, she could be regarded as a special talent anywhere. Even billionaires couldn''t afford her as a bodyguard. And she, as a girl, had actually seeded in reaching this level. Mia didn''t reach this level by luck, she did it with her own ability. Although she was born in a wealthy family, she had gone through a lot of hardships and suffering to pursue this path, and that''s why she had her current status. People said she was amazing, lucky, but no one knew about the hardships she had gone through. Mia was a master at hiding her pain. Instead of burdening others, she harbored her sufferings deep within, especially from those who held her dear, fearing it would cause them worry. She chose to share her struggles only with her lover, thinking there was no need for others to know. Over time, she grew ustomed to her self-imposed silence, wearing her pain like a cloak. The once- vibrant and bubbly Mia would mask her true self whenever she stepped into the casino. Her disposition shifted dramatically; she became reserved, her piercing eyes always watchful, reminiscent of a hawk ready to pounce. At home, Andre alwaysmented on her gentle nature, blissfully unaware of the trials and tribtions Mia had endured throughout her life. One particr day, Mia entered the casino with a purpose. She aimed to transition from a Gold Pass holder to the esteemed White Pass. This pass was the second highest in rank, and only a select four could im it. Above that was the ck Pass, the pinnacle of prestige, held by a sole individual ¨C the champion, the king of the arena. Possession of the ck Pass wasn''t just symbolic; it granted the bearer unmatched power,manding respect and, in some instances, even dictating life and death. What Mia wants is not this high and mighty status, but the ck Pass, which has been her only wish for the past five years. White Pass can be seen as the king''s minister, holding power second only to the king, and is a person held in high regard by all. And the Gold Pass Mia holds is like the king''s bodyguard, also with significant status and influence. When Jade and Leo received the invite, they both turned their gaze to Mia, the holder of the Gold Pass. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Mia said, "I''m gonna join thepetition." Her husband had pissed her off in the morning, and she figured this was a good chance to blow off some steam. So, all three of them filled in theirpetition info. In the CEO''s office of Cedillo Inc., Andre was daydreaming. "I wonder what she''s up to right now," he thought about his wife. There were two movie tickets on Andre''s desk, for a newly released movie. Chapter 149 Chapter 149 Today, Andre caught sight of a couple on their way to work while waiting for the traffic light. The girl was sipping coffee as they walked, while the guy chatted andughed with her. Seeing this, Andre couldn''t help butpare it to his own rtionship with his lovely wife. He remembered his wife was particrly keen on having coffee, going on dates, watching movies, and travelling with him! These activities were generally easy to arrange, except now he was too caught up with work and Mia was too busy with her studies to take a break for a trip. So, their travel ns were put on hold for now. Upon reaching the office, he began searching for movie info on his phone. Andre dialed the inte, "Alice,e to my office." Alice rushed to the CEO''s office, thinking there was something urgent. "Mr. Cedillo, you called for me?" Andre, holding his phone, asked, "What kind of movies do you girls like?" Alice was taken aback, unsure of what to say. So, all the rush was about helping him pick a movie for his wife? Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. "The new romantic movie is said to be good. Girls usually like newly released movies." Andre immediately bought two movie tickets. "Mr. Cedillo, do you need to book the whole theater?" Andre declined, "Mia wouldn''t like it." He had his own little scheme. If he booked the entire theater, Mia would keep a certain distance from him. At a packed cinema, she''d have nowhere to escape and would have to sit next to him. Having bought the tickets, Andre was looking forward to the day. He nced at Mia and Leo''s ss schedule and found out they didn''t have many sses today, so they could get home early. Andre was already nning how to surprise his wife. However, the surprise Mia had prepared for him was already on its way. After school in the afternoon, a guy peeked into the ssroom. Only after making sure that the scary man from yesterday wasn''t there, this guy named Eaton walked in. He had changed his clothes, looked well groomed, and even wore perfume. When he approached the trio, they all covered their noses. "Good Lord, what cologne is that?" Jade couldn''t help but ask. "Armani, don''t you like it?" Jade bluntly asked, "Did you buy a fake?" The same cologne smelled subtle and nice on her brother, which she liked. But the one this guy was wearing either was too strong and irritating or was a fake of poor quality. Eaton sniffed his arm awkwardly, "Uh, sorry. I was in a hurry to see you and didn''t control the amount I sprayed." Leo knew right away, this guy was a pro at picking up girls. "Jade, this is ssic pick-up lines. Don''t fall for it." Eaton gave an awkward smile, he was about to try asking Jade out again, but his words were blocked before he could even say them. Mia said, "Are you here to ask Jade out again? How many people do you ask out at once? Call your other three girlfriends here, let''s all hang out together. How about that?" "What you just said¡­" "Didn''t your teacher tell you that the school principal has been reced?" Mia, who was in a bad mood, exploded at the annoying guy in front of her, using the principal status her husband gave her to intimidate her ssmate. Eaton swallowed nervously, stuttering, "What you just said about three girlfriends, I don''t know what you mean. I''ve always liked Jade." Jade was scared. She immediately interrupted him and quickly drew a line between them in front of everyone. "Eaton, we''ve only exchanged a few words in the club. You better not associate with me. I''m afraid yourw school girlfriend will sue me, she''s studyingw. I''m also afraid the freshman girl in our club will create trouble for me, using me of seducing her boyfriend. And, if your girlfriend from the bar can''t find you, she mighte to school and bully me." Jade''s words were sharp and sarcastic, pointing out Eaton''s behaviour in just a few sentences. The whole ss started to buzz with discussion again. When Jade finished, Eaton was already struggling to control his emotions. His pursuit of Jade was also because they were in the same club, making it convenient to get close to her. Plus, she was very close to Mia and Leo. Although he didn''t know about Jade''s family situation, the fact that she had such a close rtionship with these two was enough reason for him to pursue her. If he could sessfully win over Jade next year, he could use her rtionship to get Mia to go home and tell her husband Andre to agree to let him intern at Cedillo Inc. With this connection, he could continue to develop his career at thepany, which would be a bright future. In addition, Jade was currently a recognized beauty in school. If he could win her over, his reputation in school would not be inferior to Leo''s. Being able to show off such a beautiful girl as his girlfriend would be a great pride for a man. So, he began to create opportunities to interact with Jade. When Mia was the school belle, he knew she was very pretty, but it would be difficult for her to be his girlfriend. Because he didn''t know Mia, and pursuing her wouldn''t bring any additional value. Luckily, he didn''t pursue Mia. If Andre found out that someone had been coveting his wife, being expelled from school would be the least of his worries, he might even be in danger of losing his life. Luckily, he managed to save his own life. Last night, he also investigated Jade''s brother, Chad, who turned out to be a cop. In Eaton''s eyes, this guy was just a small cop, so he wasn''t that afraid of him anymore. But when he got to the ssroom, a sudden pain in his shoulder reminded him that although Jade''s brother didn''t have much power, he was good at fighting, so he carefully checked that he wasn''t there before he dared to appear. He hadn''t even asked Jade out yet, and the trio had already aimed their shots at him. What''s even more terrifying is that they knew about the disgraceful things he was doing behind the scenes! "Don''t think that by changing your phone number or WhatsApp ount and then dating so many girls online at the same time, my bro won''t find out. As long as your appearance and identity information remain the same, no matter where you do your dirty deeds, Chad can find evidence." Despite her grudges against her own brotherst night, she still believes that as a member of the Byrne family, she must show her brother''s abilities and prestige to the outside world. Gossips are already buzzing around the school''s forum... Jade seemed particrly keen toy bare the man''s deceit today. She persisted, "Every single time, you''re scrimping and depending on women to foot the bill. You balk at even shelling out for a hotel room. Given that you can barelyst an hour in a short-stay ce, it''s evident you''re inept sexually. If you''re that inadequate, stop parading around trying to impress." Eaton teetered on the edge of a breakdown. Gazing at Jade''s self-satisfied expression, he was itching to strike back. Meanwhile, the online forum was in uproar. Rumors circted about a male student at the school juggling rtionships with three different women concurrently: aw student, a freshman, and a girl he''d met at a bar. The guy is sexually incapable, doesn''t even pay for hotels when staying with women, is this true love? ¡­ Finally, the three who caused all these heated discussions didn''t say anything more, they picked up their bags and walked out with swagger. Chapter 150 Chapter 150 On the car. Without any prior agreement, both Mia and Leo pped in unison for Jade who was sitting at the back. Mia asked, "Jade, are you a silver-tongued devil or what?" With an air of arrogance, Jade fluffed her bangs and smirked. "Hmph, I already nned to expose that bastard when I heard about it from Chadst night. I''d be a sinner if I helped him cover up such shocking news. And that ungrateful jerk actually had the guts to ask me out today. Like I, Jade, would ever fall for such a bad guy." Leo curiously asked, ¡°Jade, how did you know about the hourly hotel room and his... short performance?¡± "My brother let it slip when he was cussing him out yesterday, and I overheard it," Jade confessed, looking at her friends innocently. Last night, in Jade''s room. She was sitting cross-legged on the bed, a pillow on herp, arms resting on the pillow, hands propping up her cheeks, listening to her brother''s rant. Suddenly, Chad revealed that Eaton didn''tst long in the hourly hotel room. Jade''s eyes lit up. She asked curiously, "Chad, are you saying he''s bad in bed?" Chad lightly tapped Jade''s forehead, admonishing her, "What on earth is in that head of yours?" After that, Jade was relentless, following Chad from her room to his, sitting on his bed, pestering him nonstop. With curious eyes, she asked, "Chad, if he''s that bad, what''s so attractive about him?" At that moment, Chad wished he could smack her out of the room. He was her brother, not her boyfriend! How could he answer that! So, Chad wrapped Jade in a nket and threw her back into her room. "Chad~" Chad shut his bedroom door and locked it, ignoring her. ... On the way to Gold Level, Mia and Leo got a full ount of Jade''s story. After hearing it, Mia thought Jade was quite a character. Jade started pestering Leo again, "Leo, how long is normal for you guys? Is what they write in novels true, that you can stay in all day?" Leo, exasperated, replied, "I''m still single, how would I know!" Then, both of them turned towards the married one ¡ª Mia. "Why are you looking at me?" Mia stuttered, caught off guard. "Just because I''m married doesn''t mean I know everything." "You could ask your husband," Jade suggested mischievously. Leo asked Mia, "Do you remember what I told you the day we first met at my house?" Mia nodded, she remembered it very clearly. She had even felt fortunate about it at times. However, after a chance contact with her husband, where her hand identally brushed against that part of him, she started to doubt Leo''s words. "What are you two whispering about? Spill the beans," Jade, the gossip queen, chimed in. Leo was about to speak when Mia hurriedly cut him off, "What happens with my husband is for me to discuss, none of you are allowed in on this." "What''s going on with your husband? Just this morning you were ming him. Why are you protecting him now?" Despite Jade''s persistent questioning, Mia remained tight-lipped. Leo thought, Mia must be blinded by love. After that, he didn''t say another word about Andre. Having questioned for so long and gotten nowhere, Jadeined, "What a waste of time." Once they arrived at the destination indicated on the phone, they got out of the car and took out the things from the trunk. Upon seeing the cans of red, ck, and white paint, the trio shared a silent moment of disbelief. "Mia, did you get these?" Leo questioned, raising an eyebrow. A tad sheepishly, Mia responded, "I just grabbed a box without checking the colors." With a smirk, Leo mused, "Given these colors, one of us could be Batman, another a ninja, and the third Spider-Man. We''d be set for a movie shoot." However, their final decision veered away from superheroes. They settled on portraying themselves as "natives". Using ck as the primary shade to mask their identities, they ented with red and white stripes. And thus, their makeshift "native" disguises came to life. Later, their car halted before a hotel. Once the check-in formalities were done, they entered the elevator, aiming for the 3rd floor. But, much to their surprise, the elevator descended instead. Reaching the third basement level, they cautiously stepped out into the dim ambiance. Sparse lighting frommps barely cut through the shadows. Fall was setting in above ground, but the chill was more pronounced underground. Seeing Mia and Jade rubbing their arms to keep warm, Leo, despite feeling cold himself, took off his khaki jacket and put it on Mia. "Put this on." Mia looked at the man behind her with gratitude, "Young man, my care for you at home wasn''t in vain." "Don''t joke, ever since you came to our house, I''ve been reduced to a nobody." Mia thought about it and realized he was right. After she married into the Cedillo family, Leo''s status did drop. "When we get back, I''ll spoil you even more." "No! Go spoil your husband. I still want to live a peaceful life for a few more years." Mia pouted. Thinking of her husband always brought a sweet feeling to her heart. Noticing that Jade''s clothes were also thin, she offered, "Jade, wear my clothes. I''m going to be on stageter and it will be hot." Jade shook her head, knowing why Leo had given Mia his jacket. "Mia, you''re going topeteter and we don''t know who the opponent is. Stay warm. If you''re too cold, it will affect your performance." Leo agreed, "Just wear what I gave you. I''ll hold Jade." Leo opened his arms and pulled Jade into a hug. "Jade, don''t get the wrong idea. I''m only hugging you Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. because you''re cold. Don''t badmouth me to Chad." Jade gave a light tap on the hand resting on her shoulder, "I can handle this chill, no need for your cuddles." Mia noticed that Jade was wearing a little tank top with a denim jacket over it. "Jade, let''s swap clothes." Mia exined her reason, "I''m wearing a turtleneck sweater today, might affect my performance when I go on stageter. Your outfit is more form-fitting, I might do better wearing it. Plus, my clothes are thicker than yours, can keep the cold at bay. You probably won''t feel cold wearing it." Jade looked at her and Mia''s clothes, then nodded in agreement. The two of them went to the restroom to change clothes. When they came out, Leo pointed at the two and said, "I almost couldn''t tell you guys apart." Given that all three of them had simr makeup on, it was understandable that Leo had some trouble distinguishing the two girls. Jade, with her gorgeous big eyes, blinked at Leo, then she yfully hinted at Mia''s neck with her eyes while smiling. Chapter 151 Chapter 151 She wore a turtleneck all day, hiding what looked like a hickey on her neck. It wasn''t until she changed into a low-cut tank top that her delicate neck and the noticeable purple spot caught everyone''s eyes. Leo hollered, "My uncle is so badass." Mia joined in, "Definitely." Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. This man, cheekily referred to as ''badass'' by his wife and nephew, knocked off work early. He grabbed the movie tickets on the table, ready to pick up his wife. Along the way, he parked the car and got in line to buy his wife atte. This was Andre''s first time buying atte, so he wasn''t sure what his wife preferred. Therefore, he asked the barista for a rmendation. The barista suggested, "You could try our signaturette. It''s quite popr." He took the barista''s advice and decided to get the signaturette. The barista asked, "Would you like it iced, sir?" Andre replied, "No." Thedies in line couldn''t help but sneak nces at this handsome man. Some were subtle, while others were quite bold. "He''s so hot," someonemented. "This guy looks like Andre." Suddenly, the atmosphere turned quiet... Everyone''s opinion of this man changed. Initially, they were just attracted to his good looks and thought it was a bit odd for a man in a suit to be buying atte. However, after looking at the photo on their phones, their opinions changed entirely. Everyone was stunned, unable to react. Andre didn''t hide his identity nor did he engage in much conversation with those around him. Suddenly, the coffee for the person in front of him was ready. The coffee looked pretty good, he guessed his wife would like it. Andre stopped thedy, asking, "What''s this one called?" Thedy was a bit surprised and froze. "This is... this is..." "A new cappino," the barista said. Andre turned to the barista, "Add another cappino, my wife should like it." "Mr. Cedillo, are you buying this for your wife?" Thinking of Mia back home, always so adorable, he lovingly replied, "She loves to eat, especially roadside coffee and juice. I got off work early today, so I''m bringing her back a couple of cups." The barista immediately started preparing his order. Soon, Andre''s coffee was ready. He took the coffee and made a call to his father at home. Hansen was engrossed in a game, having a great time. "I didn''t realize you could y games on a phone. I can y this all afternoon without getting bored." Hansen sat on the couch with his maid, ying on his phone. "Mia is always sharing these fun and interesting games with me. She even ns to teach me how to y this Pug game." "Sir, Ms. Mia said the game is called PUBG." Hansen waved it off, "Whatever it''s called, my daughter-inw is the best." Suddenly, while engrossed in his game, Hansen received a call from his son. A bit irritated, he answered, "Can''t you just say it in the group chat? Why do you have to call and interrupt my game?" Hansen lectured him. "Is Mia back yet?" "Not yet, I guess she''s probably on the road." Hansen continued ying his game. He asked, "Where are you? It sounds really noisy there." "I''m buying coffee for Mia." Hansen immediately quit the game and put the phone to his ear. "Andre, get me one too." Hansen added, "I''ll have what Mia is having. She bought me onest time with pearls in it, it was quite fun to chew on. Get me an extra serving." Andre felt he shouldn''t have made this call! After hanging up, Andre helplessly ordered two more identical coffees for his father from the barista. Once the coffees were ready, Andre took them and headed for his car. He called his nephew but no one picked up. He called his wife and again, no one answered. Andre checked the time, it was already four o''clock, school should be out by now. He drove home. Upon arrival, Hansen was delighted to see the drinks in his son''s hand. Nobody noticed that this man in his sixties or seventies was so fond of snacks. Ever since his second son got married, his diet had improved. The house was full of delicacies, but he preferred fish and chips. He would rather stroll around the snack street than have high-end seafood served to him. "Why did you buy four cups?" Hansen wanted to have three cups all to himself. Andre ced atte and a cappino on the table, he nced at his watch, "Dad, haven''t Mia and Leoe back yet?" "No." Hansen took one of the coffees and examined it, it was a vor he had tasted before. He started drinking it straight from the straw. It didn''t seem odd at all to see an old man with a coffee. Andre waited at home until five o''clock, but they still hadn''t returned. Moreover, he couldn''t get through to either his wife or nephew''s phones. Could something have happened? The more Andre thought about it, the more worried he became. He left the coffee on the table in the bedroom, grabbed his car keys, and headed out again. He drove to Havenbrook University and found his wife''s ssroom ording to the directions. But there was no one there, and nothing had happened on the way. How could they just disappear for no reason? At that moment, at The Silent RingGold Level. Three matches had already taken ce on the stage. The next one was Mia''s. Leo and Jade watched Mia nervously in the center, "Are you sure you can handle the opponent you drew?" In pivotal moments, Jade''s mind often shed back to their sophomore year. She vividly remembered Mia''s fall, how shey immobile on the floor, her wrist grotesquely swollen, almost as thick as her forearm. Mia''s gaze locked onto her adversary, who was clearly observing her in return. With confidence emanating from her voice, she dered, "I''ve got this. I watched his match when he advanced from the Red Level. He''s riddled with vulnerabilities that he can''t possibly rectify in such a short span." Leo interjected with a note of caution, "He''s a skilled karateka. The match that propelled him from the Red Level to Gold hinged on his opponent''s underestimation of him. You mustn''t make the same mistake. He strikes me as cunning. I wouldn''t put it past him to have deliberately downyed his abilities in the previous round, just to throw you off in this one." Mia nodded, she reassured her two friends, "Don''t worry. If he wants to confuse me, do you think I''d be so easily fooled? Everyone has their secrets." Seeing thest round about to wrap up, Mia got up, shrugged off her jacket, and strutted out of the waiting area in a ck tank top, heading for the battlefield. Her opponent was a guy codenamed "Eagle," who had a Doraemon face painted on his, making it impossible for Mia to guess his age and stamina. She could only gauge from his height and weight. "Didn''t expect Mimi to show up at the tournament with hickeys, looks like Mimi''s been living it up, hasn''t she? Trying to blow off some steam, are we?" Eagle broke the silence. Mia felt his gazend on her neck. Chapter 152 Chapter 152 His words were an insult to Mia, mocking her for needing a man to help her blow off some steam because she knew she had a bigpetitioning up. Mia smirked, her innocence hidden under ayer of dark makeup. The more mysterious she was, the more people wanted to figure her out. "Sorry, if you''re jealous that I have a boyfriend, I can''t help you there. If you''re green with envy over the care I get from my boyfriend, find one for yourself after you lose thispetition. Let him leave a mark on your neck tofort you." Of course, it was natural for a woman to have a boyfriend. But suggesting that he, a man, should also find a boyfriend was an insult, especially for someone who considered himself a straight man in a Mia was not one to hold a grudge. She would hit back right away. If he mocked her, he should expect a no-holds-barredeback from her. Mia always went straight for the jugr with her words, showing no mercy. Surprisingly, Eagle justughed it off. Mia gave him a sidelong nce and shifted her gaze elsewhere. Theughing man was like a clown, his yellow teeth making Mia feel disgusted. Judging by his voice, Mia guessed he was a young man, probably in his twenties or thirties. She seemed to be stretching her limbs, but she was actually taking a sneak peek at his hands. Hands can reveal a lot of information. Manualborers have short, thick fingers, calloused hands, and a yellowish skin tone. People who work out regrly have smoother skin on their hands, which doesn''t darken due to exposure to the sun and wind. Office workers or those who work with words have slightly tter fingertips, intricate palm lines, and decent skin, but it''s not the same as someone who works out regrly. ...... By observing his hands, Mia had a pretty good idea of his profession. He was undoubtedly a manual yellow stains on the teeth. Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. So, she concluded that he was probably in histe twenties, a blue-cor worker who worked outdoors for many years. With this information, Mia had a rough idea of his weaknesses. She was already prepared for thepetition. The previous round had ended. The man spat on the ground, trying to gross Mia out. Mia simply took a different path, not even ncing at the spit on the ground. It was time for thepetition. Leo and Jade anxiously gathered at the edge of the tform. They had a lot of things to tell Mia, but they didn''t want to disturb her before thepetition, so they just looked up at the skinny woman on the tform. Mia saw the cunning in his eyes and became serious immediately, no longer arguing with him. The atmosphere was electric. Mimi was up, and the entire crowd was excited. Her matches were always thrilling. Her boxing style was graceful, like an art performance. Ever since she made a name for herself at the Blue Level, her fans would cheer her on at every match. This sparked apetitive spirit in others, who wanted to challenge her, defeat her, and take her ce in the limelight. Among them was a man named Eagle. When he got on stage, he knew he was up against a young girl, but he still took off his shirt, showing off his muscr upper body and taunting Mia with provocative stares. He teased Mia, "What would your husband do if he knew a shirtless man was on top of you?" "That would be trouble." From the sidelines, Leo answered for Mia. If this guy dared toy a finger on Mia, her possessive uncle would make him pay. For a woman to participate in a men''spetition was already challenging, but Mia didn''t care. She was in the zone. The start of the match was announced, and everyone held their breath, watching the two on stage. They were still sizing each other up, Mia keeping her distance. The man was verbally abusing Mia in vulgarnguage. Leo was furious and wanted to fight him, but Mia remained calm, her eyes full of rationality. Suddenly, she lunged forward. Just as the man thought she was going on the offensive, Mia leaned back, dodging his move. She had just feinted, but it made him panic and protect himself. When Mia got up, the crowd burst intoughter. "Eagle is no match for Mimi. He only knows how to provoke with words, butcks real skills." "Mimi has technique, Eagle just seems like a big lug. He''s probably going to lose." ...... Hearing the crowd''sments, Eagle felt defeated. He stopped holding back andunched a fierce attack on Mia. Mia saw himing and rolled away on the floor. Just as everyone thought Mia would y defensively, she unexpectedly kicked at the man''s legs. "Ah!" Eagle screamed. Mia quickly got up. "Nice." Some in the audience apuded Mia''s surprising move. The apuse for Mia grew louder and more fervent. Eagle, his pride wounded, lunged at Mia once more. He recognized that to clinch victory, he''d need to restrain Mia''s nimble movements. But in a contest where karate shed with taekwondo, he found himself unable to gain an upper hand on her. After enduring several falls at the hands of Mia within the first ten minutes, Eagle rose yet again. Gazing into Mia''s resolute eyes, he balled up his fists and made another desperate lunge at her. But Mia chose not to sidestep him this time around. Instead, she opted to meet his charge directly. Understanding her strength disadvantage, she honed in on his vulnerabilities. With a graceful twist of her body, she delivered a sharp elbow strike to Eagle''s spine. Eagle''s legs wobbled, and he struggled to maintain his bnce. The audience broke into amused chatter, one of them jeering, "If he can''t even stay on his feet, how does he n on taking down Mimi? He''s in way over his head!" Eagle turned to look at Mia, got up, stretched his muscles, and continued the fight. This time he found Mia''s weakness. He grabbed Mia and threw her forcefully on the ground. Mia could feel herself being thrown down and bouncing back up. Leo and Jade were nervous. The crowd stoppedughing, watching in disbelief as Mimi was thrown down. Just when Eagle was all joyous and ready to pin Mia down, she pulled off a side roll and got up instantly. Instead, Eagle found himself up close and personal with the ground. No one saw iting, Mia''s speed was so insane, she was on her feet in a blink. Mia nced at the timer. Jade hollered, "Last ten minutes." Mia turned her head, her eyes icy as she stared down at the man sprawled on the ground, who was just about to get up. Chapter 153 Chapter 153 Mia took this chance, and swung her arm around fast as lightning. Using the power from her elbow and her full body weight, she delivered a fierce blow to the man''s right arm. With a crunching sound, the man''s right arm was broken by Mia''s elbow. There was no need to wait for the system to dere the winner. Everyone in the scene saw it. There was still thest eight minutes left until the end. Mia''s whole body was covered in sweat as she got up and retreated to a safe area. She watched as the man sprawled on the ground slowly got up and struggled to attack her, but his arm would be in serious trouble if he didn''t treat it in time. So the match was quickly decided before the time was up. The audience erupted in apuse. Eagle, always the arrogant one, sullenly picked up his clothes and left the stage. Mia gave him a swift kick from behind. He didn''t stand still andnded right on the spit he had spit out when he got on stage. Everyone roared withughter; this was the punishment he deserved. Without saying a word, Mia just showed a faint smile, then turned around, nimbly jumped over the railing and went down, smooth as silk. "Wow, you''re amazing, you won again. You didn''t even use your own moves, just dodged a few times and you won. You''re my idol." Jade excitedly hugged the sweaty Mia. Leo saw that she was unhurt and asked, "Did you purposefully let him throw you on the ground?" Mia raised an eyebrow in triumph, "Hmm, so you noticed." She had been watching the man''s movements since she got on the stage. He wanted to humiliate her, well then she had to ''lie down''. Only when she was down, could she have the chance to end the fight quickly. Every step Mia took was part of her n. She went to the rest area, picked up the water on the chair and started drinking. Jade covered Mia''s back with Leo''s jacket to prevent her from catching a cold. Outside, a man anxiously looking for his wife went around Havenbrook. He called his inws to find his wife. Hearing about their daughter''s disappearance, they hurriedly called Jade. But no one answered. "Andre, we can''t reach Mia, Leo, and Jade, should we call the police?" Andre frowned, he hung up on his inws and called Mars. "Find her, my wife is missing again." Soon, the chat group was active again. Conner joked to Andre, "Are you having trouble with your wife? She keeps disappearing. Didn''t you two send roses to show your lovest time?" Asher also heard about Mia''s disappearance. "Andre, I mean no offense. You can manage a big fancy her, just tie her up with a rope and keep her by your side." Andre wished he could sew Mars'' mouth shut. If it weren''t for his need for Mars'' help right now, he would''ve punched him. Teddy also asked in the group chat, "Are you having marital problems, or has she found a new man?" Mars got angry, "Teddy, are you implying that Mia is cheating on Andre?" Andre sent two words in the group chat, "Fuck off." It was concise and powerful, also reflecting his mood at the moment. So, the four friends understandingly dropped the subject. Before long, Mars called Andre''s phone. "I have good news and bad news, which one do you want to hear first?" "Mars, cut the crap." Andre wasn''t in the mood for Mars'' idle chit-chat. Mars replied immediately, "Good news, we found your wife, and she''s at the Starry Hotel. Bad news, we also found the man in the same room as your wife; it''s your nephew." Hearing the name of the hotel, Andre squinted his eyes. Starry Hotel! What was she doing there? After hanging up, Andre drove to the destination. When he arrived, he found that the parking lot was C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. full. In the end, he drove directly to the hotel entrance and went in. "I''m looking for three people, Mia, Leo, Jade." "Sir, may I ask who you are?" Andre said with a straight face, "I''m Mia''s husband." The receptionist felt the need to verify his identity, so Andre gave her a tip, "Please make it quick." Seeing the tip, the receptionist immediately looked it up on theputer, "No record of Jade, but the other two are in room 312." Andre got up and went straight to the elevator, pressing the button for the third floor. The elevator started to ascend. In no time, he reached the third floor, following the instructions he went to room 312. He knocked on the door, but no one responded. Andre trusted that nothing was going on between his wife and nephew, but, the two of them suddenly getting a room made him feel uneasy. He knocked on the door again, "Mia, Leo, open the door." Still no one responded. Maybe because he knocked for too long, the cleaningdy came out and told Andre, "Sir, you might have the wrong ce, this room is unupied." Andre frowned, unupied? Seeing his disbelief, the cleaningdy opened the room for Andre to see. Andre nced inside; indeed there was no one in the room. Then where was his wife? Back in the elevator, Andre was full of doubts. This can''t be a mistake. Could it be... Andre''s eyes fell on the card reader in the elevator. He took out an inconspicuous card from his pocket and ced it on the reader. Then, the elevator went straight down to the third basement floor. The elevator doors opened. Andre''s eyes narrowed, a sharp gleam shed in his eyes as he stepped out of the elevator. If he found his wife here, she was definitely getting her ass kicked! With determination in his eyes, Andre entered a ce he hadn''t visited in years. "Get him!" The crowd cheered. The previous round had ended, out of the final 16, 8 emerged victorious. These 8 were getting different opponents based on the system''s analysis of their fighting strength from the previous round. Jade asked, "Mia, can you guess who your opponent might be?" Mia, "I''m worried it might be that guy." "What? Who?" Two bewildered friends were shocked. Mia said the name of that person "Knuckle¡±. "You mean that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu guy?" Mia nodded, "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, closebat specialist. If he knocks me down, I won''t be able to get up." Just then, the match roster was announced. Mimi was up against Knuckle. Instantly, everyone had a new focus. In their shock, the trio quickly started helping Mia analyze her opponent''s weaknesses. Her friends, who had been watching matches with Mia for five years, had a basic understanding of martial arts. Leo shared his thoughts, "Jiu-jitsu might not stand a chance against street fighting. Can you beat him?" Mia shook her head, "I can''t do street fighting, but there should be other ways. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it has weaker defense when standing, and the punches and kicks are even weaker. I need to avoid being taken down, only then will I have a bigger chance of winning." Chapter 154 Chapter 154 The system quickly announced the match order. Mia was up first. She took a deep breath, trying to rx as much as possible. "The sooner I finish, the sooner I can go home and avoid my husband''s suspicion. I don''t have a good excuse for him yet." Leo said, "I beg you, finish the fight quickly and try not to get hurt." Mia nodded. She got up and wet her hands with water to calm herself down, then returned to the ring. The man across the ring didn''t say a word from start to finish. When Mia stepped onto the stage, she looked at his stance and guessed that he had been trained in martial arts since he was a child. Knuckle was very polite and bowed to each opponent as a sign of respect. But his opponents were all arrogant, no one respected him, the silent one, so his bows were never reciprocated. In response to his respect, she also bowed back, bending 90 degrees at the waist. Mia''s response was a pleasant surprise to Knuckle. He didn''t expect the first person to reciprocate his respect to be Mimi. He felt he was about to meet a worthy opponent in martial arts. Outside the ring, they admired each other. On the stage, they quickly prepared for battle. The clock started ticking. Another fierce battle was about to begin. Andre arrived at a ss door, which appeared to lead to arge cave with hundreds of seats. The door could not be opened manually, requiring a card swipe. As soon as Andre pressed his fingerprint on the card reader, the door unlocked. He entered the arena. "Leo, I''m going to the restroom. Keep an eye on Mia. If something goes wrong, surrender immediately. Don''t let her fight to the death like she did in the second year of high school," Jade said. Leo nodded, "I know, if she gets hurt this time, my uncle will demolish this ce, and we might be in trouble." The match on stage was in full swing. Mia was fighting Knuckle, using all her skills: hand-to-handbat, distance fighting, boxing. When her first round of attacks missed, she swiftly turned and distanced herself from Knuckle''s control. Knuckle was proficient in jiu-jitsu, with ground fighting being his deadliest skill. If you were on the ground, he was the king. He tried multiple times to throw Mia to the ground, but she was as slippery as an eel, always escaping just as he was about to catch her. Mia quickly moved behind Knuckle and struck a powerful blow at his knee joint. He fell down, but he grabbed Mia''s ankle and threw her to the ground as well. Mia thought, Crap! On the ground, she was like a piece of meat in a snake''s mouth. Her body was instantly restrained, her neck was pressed down and her face was turning red. The entire audience''s attention was focused on the stage. It was difficult to tell who would win this match. Mia reacted quickly. Even though she was having difficulty breathing, she quickly made a judgment in the face of danger. She gave up trying to save herself and instead freed one of her hands to punch Knuckle in the temple. Knuckle groaned in pain and his grip on Mia loosened. She seized the opportunity tounch another attack, aiming a punch at Knuckle''s vulnerable neck, and sessfully knocked Knuckle off her. She rolled over, half crouched on the ground, gasping for breath, trying to regte her breathing. Time was still ticking away, and there was no clear advantage for either of them. Jade came out of the bathroom, she had just washed her hands and rolled up her sleeves, passing the ss door on her way to thepetition area. Suddenly, she saw a man without makeup on the field. She was about to warn him when he turned his head and saw her. He noticed her because she was wearing the same top as his wife. Their eyes met. Andre saw the fear in Jade''s eyes. Was she afraid of him? Andre scrutinized her features. She was simr in size to his wife, and they were both wearing high- necked tops, which made Andre subconsciously wonder if this woman could be his wife that he had been looking for. But this girl gave him apletely different feeling. Her hair didn''t have the softness he remembered from Mia. Andre''s gaze swept over her and suddenly he noticed a strange scar on Jade''s arm. That scar... Memories that had been buried deep in Andre''s mind for years suddenly surfaced. He thought of the little girl he had been searching for for fifteen years. Andre started breathing heavily as he looked again at Jade, who was dressed like a native. He reached out and grabbed Jade''s arm, demanding, "Who are you?" Jade was also startled, wasn''t this man Mia¡¯s husband! Jade nced at Mia, who was still in the match. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. "Wow!" She threw off his hand and ran quickly into the crowd. ¡°Molly.¡± Andre called after her. He hade to find his wife, but after seeing that girl, his mind was filled with nothing but her. His world seemed to be filled in an instant with a person called Molly. Andre chased after the shadow. Jade looked back and saw him chasing after her. She regretted instantly, "It''s over, it''s all over." She rushed into the crowd, heading for the edge of thepetition area, "Mia, it''s bad, Andre is here." Mia thought she must have heard wrong. Jade pointed behind her, "Really, look, I saw it with my own eyes." When Mia heard Andre''s name, her legs went weak. "Oh, Jade, don''t scare me, how could he know about this ce? He doesn''t have a pass, how did he get in?" Jade spotted Andre in an instant. At that moment, Leo also saw Andre. His face turned pale with fright, thinking he really should have picked out his own grave. Jade felt that it was every man for himself at this point. She was the first to choose to run, "Mia, don''t me me for not being loyal. It''s every man for himself in a life and death situation. Good luck, I''m off. If we get the chance, we''ll meet again." Decisive Jade fled at once, leaving behind a terrified Leo and an apparently furious uncle staring at each other. Even though Leo had made himself up to look like a ghost, he was still instantly recognizable to Andre. Andre walked towards him step by step, his face darkening with each step, and with every step closer, Leo felt his life shortening. His heartbeat quickened, almost to the point of having a heart attack under the pressure of his uncle''s powerful aura. Just like that, the woman on stage was about to win the match. But then, she spotted the most eye- catching man in the crowd. Her mouth dropped open in surprise and she forgot to continue her attack. That... that was her husband, what was he doing here? Screw the match. Forget about boxing. Promotion to the next round? Not interested. She leaped off the stage, leaving the ring behind. Knuckle and the crowd were totally bamboozled. What on earth was this woman up to? Mia''s actions made it clear: I''m getting out of here! If she kept on fighting, she might lose her life. She didn''t bring anything with her and it seemed like she wouldn''t be able to save Leo. She decided to save herself first and fled the scene. Total chaos erupted at the venue. Andre walked up to his nephew at the moment. Leo threw up his hands and surrendered immediately. "Where''s your aunt?" Leo instinctively looked back at the woman who waspeting on stage. He quickly spun around. Oh my god, where did she go? Chapter 155 Chapter 155 Leo was too slow to react, and Mia and Jade, both unreliable, fled the scene as they each made their own escape in the event of a crisis. Only he, unfortunately, was left behind. After Mia got out, she was only wearing a tank top. She had her hands on her waist; the running she had just done had left her almost out of breath. "You legged it too, didn''t ya?" A voice came from behind. Mia nearly jumped out of her skin. She turned around to see Jade. It was theirck of loyalty that led to this awkward meeting at the door. "Jade, you took a powder without so much as a peep. I was having a st on stage, saw my husband leaving, and without a second thought, I jumped off the stage and bolted. It''s a madhouse in there right now, no chance of leveling up to White Pass today." Jade was having a standoff with Mia at the entrance, "You''ve got some nerve! I just had a stare-down and a talk with your husband, and he grabbed me. If I don''t run away, should I wait to die?" "He''s my husband, what are you afraid of? He''s not going to eat you, is he?" Mia shot back. Jade, "Damn it, that''s exactly the problem. If he finds out that Leo and I are your partners in crime in this underground gambling ring, we''ll all be in the soup. Let''s find a ce to change, then I''ll go to my brother for protection." The two of them found a public restroom and started changing. Jade said, "Mia, your hubby almost recognized me today. He called me Molly, but I didn''t respond. When you get home, don''t you dare spill the beans about us changing clothes. Otherwise, he''ll know I was there too." Mia agreed. After washing their faces at the sink and cleaning off the grime, Jade, in a tank top, gged down a cab, "To the police station." Chad was busy when a girl with a dirty face and in a tiny tank top showed up. He lifted her chin and looked at her beautiful face. "Jade, spill it. What have you been up to this time?" Chad said, fuming. Jade shrunk back, "I messed up." Seeing her clothes, Chad took off his jacket for Jade to wear, then pushed her towards the mirror in the restroom. "Clean up your face, then spill the beans about where you''ve been." Jade turned on the faucet, cupped water in her hands, and washed her face. "Chad, I got your sleeves wet." Chad was livid. He felt even his breath hot. But what could he do? She was his baby sister. Chad rolled up his sleeves, thenmanded Jade sternly, "Bend down." Jade quickly bent down and closed her eyes. In no time, a pair of hands were washing her face. Chad was carefully cleaning off the makeup on her cheeks. The officers who left the restroom looked surprised to see Chad. "Captain, who are you washing the face for?" "Who else gets this VIP treatment than my own sister?" Chad replied with somewhat of an impatient tone. Jade broke into a grin. After washing her face, Chad dried it for her. "Jade, to my office. Tell me everything you did today. If I find out myself, you''re in trouble. Our parents called, they won''t be back this week, and they''ll let us know when they''ll be back." That meant, Jade would have to spend this week under her brother''s watchful eyes. With the parents out, she would have to follow her brother''s rules. If she screws up, she might end up doing some chores, like washing dishes or dirty socks. In the office, Jade sat across from Chad, her head lowered, her hand gently touching the edge of her police uniform, and whispered, "I went to that ce again." Chad mmed the table. Jade jerked back, "I... I just went to have a look, I''m not qualified topete." Chad pointed at his sister, "Since you''re so into it, when you get back home today, you''re doing 100 sit- ups, a 10-minute nk, 50 push-ups, 100 squats." "No, please, Chad, I know I messed up." At the Cedillo family, the atmosphere at this moment was like the calm before the storm. Leo returned, limping as he was led into the study. Mia sat in the living room, didn''t dare to leave Hansen''s side. Hansen asked, "Mia, why are you back sote today? Andre came back at four waiting for you, but you didn''te back." Mia regretted not checking her horoscope before leaving the house today. In the study, Andre asked coldly, "What''s her code?" "Mia doesn''t have a code. She wasn''t there today." Leo insisted. Andre''s gaze hardened, "Did I not hit you hard enough?" Leo said firmly as she looked up at him, "Mia didn''t go to the casino today. She knows nothing." Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. "Leo, lie to me one more time." Leo retorted boldly, "I told you, Mia wasn''t with me today. I went on my own." At the risk of getting beat up, he decided to stand up to Andre. Another issue came up before Andre could solve this one. He walked out of the room, to the railing, and shouted down at Mia, who was lost in her thoughts, "Get up here." Mia didn''t move, acting as if she hadn''t heard him. "Do I have to call your name to get you up here, or do I have to go down and drag you up?" Mia slowly got up, her head lowered, and weakly walked up the stairs to her husband. Arriving on the third floor and standing by Andre''s side, Mia clung to the wall, afraid to step in front of Andre, her small hands awkwardly touching the marble wall as if to make a hole in it. Andre stared at her. Suddenly, he grabbed Mia by the arm and yanked her into the study. When Leo saw her, he blurted out, "Uncle, I told you, Mia had nothing to do with what happened today, it was all me, why did you bring her here?" Mia was surprised to see Leo taking all the me for her. She wanted to exin, "No..." "I just think it''s fun. Besides you could get in too, that means you''ve been there before. Who are you to judge me?" This was the first time Leo stood up to Andre. Mia''s words were deliberately cut off by Leo, not letting her speak. Andre eyed his nephew, who was willing to piss himself off just to protect his wife. He was feeling antsy, "Out." Leo turned around and bailed out of Andre''s study, giving a slight shake of his head to Mia as a heads- up before he left. Now, it was just the couple left in the study. "Who did you lend your clothes to today?" Andre shut his eyes, his mind swamped with the image of the mark on that girl''s arm, consuming all his thoughts. That girl''s clothes were identical to Mia''s, but she was definitely not Mia. Chapter 156 Chapter 156 He saw Mia every day, how could he not recognize her? The most probable exnation could be that she lent her clothes to someone else. Jade and Leo had forbidden her from telling the truth, so Mia gritted her teeth and shook her head. Andre mmed his hands on the table, pleading desperately, "Mia, who did you lend your clothes to? You have to tell me." Mia shook her head again. "Mia, tell me now!" Andre was getting anxious and started yelling at his beloved wife. Apart from the unpleasantness at the beginning of their marriage, he had always treated her like a treasure, but now he was suddenly yelling at her. Mia stood in his study, crying her heart out. The tears wouldn''t stop, nor the sobs. She was like a child being scolded by parents, standing there weeping. Mia rolled up her sleeves and wiped away her tears. Andre was frustrated. He clenched his fists and walked over to his crying wife. Holding her shoulders, he said, "Mia, tell me, who did you lend your clothes to? It''s important for me to know." C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Mia''s vision was blurred by tears. On one side, her friends wanted her to lie to her husband; on the other side, they were taking the me for her. In front of her was her husband''s questioning. She didn''t know how to answer. She cried like a child. Andre realized he was being impulsive. He needed to calm down because he had scared his wife to tears. Andre closed his eyes and took a deep breath, pulling his crying wife into his embrace. "I''m sorry, I shouldn''t have yelled at you." Mia''s crying voice stuttered, "I''m sorry." "You have nothing to apologize for. Nothing," Andre hugged her tighter. It waste at night, time to rest. Andre received a phone call and suddenly left. Before her tears could dry, Mia rushed out to ask him, "Where are you going?" Andre said, "I have some things to take care of. You go back inside, it''s too cold out here. I might not be home tonight." With that, he drove away. Mia stood at the door watching him leave. When Naomi came downstairs, she saw Mia standing outside in her pajamas and quickly pulled her inside. "Mia, tell me what happened?" Mia cried and wrapped her arms around Naomi''s waist and said, "My husband is ignoring me." "Don''t cry. I will talk to him tomorrow. He''s probably just too busy with work. He won''t ignore you." Mia shook her head, "No, he hates me because I lied to him." All Naomi could do was to keepforting the emotional Mia. Andre appeared at Crescent Park. A stack of documents were spread out on the table, more than a hundred pages. Andre picked up the top one, then put it aside. He picked up another one and also put it aside. "Mr. Andre, this file contains the information of the participants who attended thepetition tonight." Andre flipped through page after page and threw away the ones that weren''t what he was looking for. He kept looking, kept throwing. Finally, he saw Leo''s profile. It said: Blue Pass, codename Miarise, and included a series of hisbat power analysis. Andre sneered after reading it, he handed Leo''s file to Noah, "Don''t let him participate in thepetition in the future." "Okay, Mr. Andre, I will cancel Mr. Leo''s Blue Pass immediately." Andre continued, "Where is my wife''s file?" "Huh?" Andre repeated himself, "Where is my wife''s file?" Noah panicked, "Sir, there is no information about Mrs. Cedillo here." Andre frowned, he looked at his assistant, "So her file just disappeared?" The assistant replied, "There really isn''t. Unless she''s a high-ranking yer, because all information about high-ranking yers is confidential." Andre thought about it. His wife was like a docile cat; he thought her little ws were just for scratching. But she turned out to be a high-ranking yer? This was absolutely unbelievable. "Go check." Noah nodded, "Mr. President, I need your highest authorization." Andre pulled out a single sheet, wrote a series of numbers on it, and handed it to his assistant. ¡­¡­ Evergreen Haven. "¡­34,35,36, keep going. You like watchingpetitions right? I want you to exercise and participate too." Chad pressed down on Jade''s feet, making her do sit-ups. Jadey on her mom''s yoga mat with her head in her hands, her legs arched and her eyes full of tears. "Chad, my stomach hurts, I can''t do any more." Chad, "Continue,e on." Jade struggled to hold her head up, trying to get up, but she couldn''t. In the end, she grabbed Chad''s arm to stand up. "Dear brother, my best brother, please let me off this time, I won''t do it again." "Jade, how did you promise mest time?" Jade held Chad''s arm and said, "I broke my promise, but I swear I really won¡¯t next time." Chad ignored her bbering mouth. "37, continue." Jade simplyy on the yoga mat and refused to do any more. She decided not to do it to see what Chad could do to her. Suddenly, she felt a heavy hit on her thigh. She was only wearing pajama pants, Chad hit her directly on the leg, and it hurt so much that she gasped. "You hit me!" Chad, "Get up, keep going. If you don''t, I''ll hit you again!" Jade was so pissed that she wanted to pull away her legs, but they were tightly held by Chad, she couldn''t move. "Chad, do you believe I''llin to mom and dad?" Jade was lying on the floor. She reached out to grab her phone to call her parents who were far away at home. Chad reacted quickly and snatched the phone away as he got up and Jade''s feet were freed. She also immediately got up, jumping in front of Chad trying to get her phone back. "Give me my phone. I''m going to call mom and dad and tell them you''ve been abusing me at home." Chad looked grim, he abused her? "Really want to call?" Jade nodded angrily. If she wanted to call, then Chad would call himself. He found mom in Jade''s contact list and dialed the number. "I''m going to tell mom what you did today." Jade immediately felt guilty. No way, if her parents knew she went to an underground casino, it wouldn¡¯t be one person would punish her, but three people together. "Okay, don''t call." Jade started to panic. She hooked her arm around Chad''s neck, forcing him to bend over as she tried to snatch his phone. "How about we both drop this whole thing? I won''t hold it against you for hitting me." Chad couldn''t care less about her plea right now. The call went through. Chapter 157 Chapter 157 "Hey, Jade, miss me yet?" Their mother answered the phone, greeting her daughter sweetly. "Mom, it''s me, Chad. I''ve got something to tell you." Suddenly, Jade panicked. She hopped into Chad''s arms, peppering his face with kisses. Feeling the dampness on his cheek, he turned to look at the girl next to him. "Jade, are you trying to stir up trouble?" "I messed up. Please don''t tell mom, I promise I''ll behave in the future," Jade whispered. She wasn''t sure why she¡¯d just kissed Chad. A blurry memory from her childhood suggested that kissing someone would save her from punishment. "What''s going on over there? Are you two fighting? Jade is your sister, why are you picking on her?" With her hands sped together, Jade pleaded with Chad not to tell their parents. Chad reluctantly looked at her, handed her the phone, and headed upstairs. Jade quickly put the phone to her ear, "Mom, I miss you. When are youing back? My brother always bullies me when you''re not at home." Chad, who hadn¡¯t gone far, heard and thought, "Women¡¯s words can''t be trusted!" The mother and daughter chatted over something, and the conversation went on for almost half an hour. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Chad went back to her, "Let''s talk." "Chad, mom said, if you keep bullying me at home, she will not let you off the hook when she''s back." "Who¡¯s talking about that? I''m talking about the boundaries between men and women. I''m your brother, and we''re both adults. You can''t kiss me randomly." "What''s wrong with kissing my own brother? I used to kiss you and dad all the time when I was little." Chad pointed at Jade, "You have to watch out for this in the future." "I got it, I got it. You''re such a nag. I seriously doubt your gender sometimes." Chad was so angry he wanted to hit Jade. "Our grandpa''s in the hospital, and our parents are staying with him. I''m going back home this week to visit him. If you hate me so much, you can stay at home this week." "No, Chad, I want to go too!" Jade clung to Chad immediately. Chad nced at her, "Aren''t you all about freedom? Go chase your freedom. I can''t handle you." "I know you care about me. Please don''t be mad at me." She pretended to massage Chad, kneading his arm randomly. "I say mean things about you, but in my heart, I know you''re the best brother in the world. I love you the most." Chad didn''t react, Jade kept pestering him. That night, she refused to let Chad sleep unless he agreed to take her home with him. If Chad disagreed, she would bring her nket to sleep with him and annoy him. Eventually, Chad had to hit her again. Jade cried, and Chad tried tofort her for half an hour to no avail. "I promise to take you home." The crying stopped instantly. Mission aplished, Jade rolled up her nket and left. Chad felt cheated by his own sister, but he had no proof. Jade had averted the crisis with her tears, pleading, and incessant nagging. Meanwhile, Mia, didn''t sleep all night. She was waiting for Andre toe home, so the light in her room was always on. She sat on the bed, staring at the door, but Andre never showed up. She called her husband, and Andre answered. "Why aren''t you asleep yet?" "I can''t sleep unless you''re home," Mia sobbed softly. "Go to sleep, I have some stuff to take care of tonight." "Darling, pleasee home," Mia kept begging. Seeing her husband angry made her sad. She remembered every scolding word he¡¯d said. She felt like there was a heavy stone pressing on her heart, making it difficult even to breathe. Andre was reviewing some documents and tried to reply to Mia gently to avoid scaring her. "I''m working overtime with Noah. There¡¯s no other woman here. Don''t overthink things. Go to sleep." Afterforting Mia, Andre hung up and stared at the paper in his hand for the tenth time! Noah was terrified, "Mr. Andre, we had no idea Mrs. Cedillo, being so petite, could pack such a punch." The information on it belonged to no other than his feisty wife. Indeed, Andre didn''te home all night. The next day, the three met in the ssroom. Jade, "I''m so relieved we''re all still alive." Leo corrected her, "You two are alive. I feel like I¡¯m dead." Mia was listless, ignoring the lecture and falling asleep on the desk. Jade patted Leo on the shoulder and asked, "Mia, what''s wrong with you?" "She must have been scolded by her husband." Jade went over tofort Mia. "Did Andre hit youst night?" Mia shook her head with her eyes closed. "Did he scold you?" Again, she shook her head. "Could it be because you didn''t join the boxing match yesterday..." "Jade, my husband is ignoring me." Mia''s voice was hoarse, and tears streamed down her face as she kept her eyes closed. "He would rather work overtime thane home to me. I know I messed up. I admitted my mistake to him, but he wouldn''t listen. This morning, I called him, and he said he was busy. Why does love hurt so much? If I were single, I wouldn''t care about his feelings." Leo said, "You need to admit to your husband that you were the one boxing yesterday. Then you need to exin to him how you knew about this ce, who took you there, and why you participated in the match. You need to tell him all of that." Jade frowned and looked at at her friend who felt ufortable next to her."Mia, if you''re really suffering, tell your husband I brought you there. If he asks me, I''ll say it was my brother''s idea. He won''t let this slide." Mia shook her head again. "No, lying to him would make me feel even worse." Leo said, "Then just keep your mouth shut. I''ve already been beaten up by him once. I don''t want to get beaten for nothing. Pretend you two weren''t there yesterday, and it was just me." Mia turned around and asked Leo, "Leo, why are you always protecting me?" Leo replied, "You came to me and Jade with your problems, rather than telling your own parents. That kind of trust deserves to be returned." Mia looked at Leo, feeling a deep sense of guilt. "Leo, I''m sorry, Jade and I both ditched you yesterday." Leo was fine until she brought that up, then he got pissed! Though, if he were in Mia or Jade''s shoes, he would''ve made the same decision. But he was Leo, Andre''s nephew, and he just had to take the punches. Chapter 158 Chapter 158 In the afternoon, Andre got back home. Mia and Leo had already returned from school. Seeing Andree back, Mia dashed up to him, "Honey, you''re back." Andre, seeing the caution in her eyes, generously gave her a hug. Then he quickly let go of Mia and said, "Sweetie, I''ve got some stuff to handle. You go y first." He looked at Leo, and said loudly, "You,e here." Leo, who was sitting on the sofa ying on his phone, promptly put his phone down and followed Andre upstairs to the study. "If you''re going to punish me, just spit it out, don''t keep me on tenterhooks." Leo even proactively offered to take the punishment. Andre said, "I don''t know what you guys are up to, but I''m warning you, if anything happens to Mia, I''ll hold you responsible. Don''t go to those ces anymore." Leo thought about Andre''s tough wife, how could she possibly listen to him? If Mia listened to him, he would have turned the tables long ago, would he still be under her thumb after all these years? "Do you understand?" Andre asked seriously. Leo didn''t respond. Because, to promise but not deliver, was even more terrible in Andre''s book. So, he didn¡¯t promise in the first ce. Someone knocked on the door, followed by a hesitant voice, "Honey, can Ie in?" Leo said, "She was waiting for you all night yesterday. She was even crying secretly in ss today." Hearing this, Andre frowned. Didn''t he tell her to go to bed earlyst night? But how can one fall asleep so easily when they had someone on their mind. Leo continued, "You''re the most unique person I''ve ever met. Your emotions affected hers; Your words were always in her mind. She smiles every time your name is mentioned. She doesn''t allow us to say anything bad about you, only she can. She had youpletely contained in her world; We were all outside of her world. She obviously loved you, and I can''t believe you couldn''t feel it." Andre was a little shocked. He knew his wife had him in her heart, but hearing it acknowledged from Leo was surprising. After the surprise came joy, this was the feeling of liking someone who secretly liked you back. Leo said confidently, "You are her first love. She''s never dated, so she might not know that this is love. We outsiders can see it clearly, she has never cared about anyone''s opinion to this extent. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Since you ignored her yesterday, she''s been upset, asking when you''d be back during breakfast, constantly checking her phone during lunch at school, not eating any of her favorite snacks, and always looking at the front door at home. ¡°You came back, and she was careful not to make you angry. You hugged her, and she was very happy. You didn''t talk to her, and she would cry. ¡°In rtionships, it''s the one who loves deeply that is so careful. You obviously like her too, why can''t you treat her well?¡± Leo wasn''t a fool, he could see Andre''s deep affection for Mia. There was a man who had once sworn not to marry, not to wed, yet one day, he suddenly embraced a woman in his arms. He flirted with her, and whispered sweet nothings. For her, he could silently sulk, and he could also freely spend money on her. He personally taught her how to drive, and apanied her in y. ... Andre had many little details that easily revealed his affection for Mia. The deep affection they both had for each other was obvious to those who were observant. "I didn''t neglect her." Andre finally defended himself. He saw that person yesterday, but he couldn''t remember what she looked like anymore, only remembered the bite mark on her. Imagine, if someone you''d been searching for fifteen years suddenly appeared before you, would you still care about love or something like that? He wasn''t a love-struck fool; his feelings for Mia wouldn''t affect what he needed to do. He had more important things to investigate now. If he missed it, he didn''t know when the next opportunity would be. So, he ignored Mia. Mia stood at the door with a cup of water for a long time. Finally, she lowered her head in disappointment, guessing that her husband didn''t want her toe in. Just as she was about to turn around and leave, the door opened. Andre stood at the door looking at her, "You used toe into my study without knocking. This time you''ve learned to knock and greet." Mia voiced her little thoughts in a soft voice, "Honey, I''ve always been right in the past, I have no guilt. So I can confidently enter the study." Only when she had done something wrong, the study was where she came to admit her mistakes, then she had to be polite. Seeing the steaming cup of water in her hand, he took it from her, afraid that she might scorch herself. His other hand took her arm and led her into the study. He said to Leo, "Get out." Leo, "Since you''re not punishing me, I''m leaving then..." "Stay in the punishment room for a day." Leo wanted to bite his tongue in regret. Why did hee asking for punishment? Big mouth! After Leo left, Andre set down the cup of water and took the love-ignorant wife to the sofa. Her innocent eyes filled with tears, she seemed a bit evasive, not daring to meet his gaze. "Honey, don''t punish Leo." As she spoke, Andre leaned in to kiss her. The soft lips were a familiar sensation to him. Andre held her head and kissed her for a long time. "I heard, my wife missed me so much today that she was about to cry?" Hearing this indulgent tone, Mia felt a little wronged and said in a sweet voice, "Hmm... I cried for a long time." Andre smiled slightly, "Why didn''t you sleep all night?" "You didn''te home, and I couldn''t sleep because I kept thinking about things." "Didn''t I tell you? There are no women by my side2. Noah and I were working overtime." Mia, "But you were mad at me yesterday~" "I apologize. I won''t do it again." Mia once again sessfully flipped the situation. She was supposed to go upstairs to bring water to apologize to her husband, but whenever she cried, airing her grievances, she made Andre apologize to her. Girls always had this magical power, to overturn established statuses. She gazed at her husband''s lips, and for the first time, took the initiative to lean forward and quickly gave him a peck. "Darling, can we just let this be?" She wouldn''t get mad at Andre for using other women to provoke her, and Andre should also stop investigating her participation in the secretpetition. Smart Mia thought this was a great idea. But it was already toote. Andre already knew everything she had done behind his backst night. He looked at that clever little girl, clearly a soft,zy, and adorable Kittemia, how did she turn around and be a top-notch yer in his secretpetition. She even had a bit of a reputation on the underground circuit. Chapter 159 Chapter 159 Leo just popped a question at him. "How did you know about this secret location?" Jade knew her brother was a control freak, checking up on her whereabouts every now and then. That''s why she used all fake IDs to go to that secret location just to keep her brother off her tail. The hotel rooms they booked were all a smokescreen, just part of the registration process. Sure, Andre could trace their hotel booking, but he should be looking in room 312. So why did he show up at the underground racing area? The info about the secret location wasn''tmon knowledge. Howe Andre could pinpoint the exact location on his first try? There was only one possibility: Andre was a high-level contestant of that secret location. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have the chops to participate in the high-level races. To enter, you had to swipe your card to read your color code. "I have Blue Pass. Do you have ck Pass?" Leo thought that only a ck card would match Andre''s prestigious status. How could a guy like Andre be chained down by rules made by others? ck Pass, in the end, was just ying by others'' rules on their turf, climbing thedder to the top N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. spot. As the rule maker, why would he care for ck Pass? He was the one giving out ck Pass. And yes, he was the puppet master behind the secret location. If the holder of a ck card was the king of the secret location, then he was the puppet master creating the kings. Andre nced at the unresponsive Leo and dismissed him. He turned to face his delicate wife alone. "Mia, don''t go to that ce anymore." Mia bit her lip, not saying a word. Andre, "If you don''t want the secret location to be disbanded, stay home and behave." It was easy for her husband to say. Could he disband the secret location just like that? There were nine ranks, thousands of participants, and decades of development to make the secret location what it is today, how could it disappear just because of his words? This man was truly full of himself. Andre, "I''m serious." If that secret location existed and was influencing his wife, it might as well be disbanded. Mia remained silent, not saying a word. In the room, Andre talked to his wife for a long time, giving her many examples of the harmful effects of boxing. On the surface, Mia seemed to be listening, but inside she kept telling herself: ignore him, ignore him, he''s just spouting nonsense. "Mia, did you hear what I just said?" Mia was taken aback; she didn''t expect to be questioned. She hadn''t taken in a word. Andre could tell from his wife''s expression; he knew what was going on. Everything he said was dismissed as nonsense by her. ...... Andre was back, and it was time to settle ounts. The first one to stand up for Mia was always Hansen. He banged on the table and pointed at Andre, "You heartless bastard, how dare you make lovely Mia cry. You pissed off my daughter-inw and you get out of here too." Andre frowned, and coldly said, "I''ve cheered her up." Hansen had prepared a whole bunch of words to reprimand Andre, but found no chance to say them before he was shut down. "Huh? That was quick?" Hansen was very puzzled. He looked at Mia standing next to Andre. Mia nodded at him, "Dad, he cheered me up." Hansen was somewhat disappointed. Before he could start scolding Andre, they had already made up. That was way too quick, not even 24 hours had passed. He pouted, looking very unhappy. He thought to himself: never mind, I''ll get another chance to reprimand Andre, I don''t believe he won''t screw up again. Not long after Hansen left, Naomi came in. Mia thought she was here to intercede for Leo so that he wouldn''t be locked in the dark room. However, Naomi started off by saying, "Andre, Mia is still young, what were you thinkingst night, driving off and leaving her crying at the door?" Andre frowned, he turned to his wife and asked, "Did you cry again after I left yesterday?" Mia tugged at her husband''s sleeve and nodded slightly. "I was upset, because you ignored me." Andre had no idea about what happenedst night, otherwise, he wouldn''t have left, would he? "As a man, you should be nice to Mia, don''t always make her cry. Marriage is about being steady and reliable." Naomi mistakenly thought that Andre had upset Mia against night, causing her to cry. She said, "You should love Mia. If you let her go, where can you find such a good wife like her?" Andre looked at his wife Mia. Mia lowered her head guiltily, she knew that this time, she was to me. But she wasn''t sure where she went wrong. "My husband and I have made up." said Mia. Naomi looked at Mia next to Andre, who looked like a victim. But who knew, she was just ying the victim. Whenever she cried, even if she was in the wrong, her family would side with her, making her look right. "My husband just cuddled and kissed me." Andre with a poker face was speechless. Naomi thought to herself, these young people, so open. She left too. Mia was a bit confused, wasn''t Naomi here to plead for Leo? Why did she leave? In a short while, Bruce came in. As soon as he opened the door to Andre''s study, he saw arge "pet" in hisp. Mia shyly quickly stood up from Andre''sp. "You guys made up?" Bruce asked directly. Andre nodded, "Calmed her down." ''Made up'' meant that the conflict between him and his wife had been resolved. ''Calmed down'' simply meant that he had calmed his wife down. So, Bruce didn''t disturb them, he closed the door for them and even kindly locked it from the outside. They could enjoy their world of two without being disturbed. Attentive Bruce told the help in the house, "No one is allowed to disturb Andre''s ''work'' on the third floor." In the study. Mia sat back in Andre''s arms. She wrapped her arms around Andre''s neck, "Honey, we have been misunderstood." Andre said, "It would be strange if you weren''t misunderstood." The Mia in his arms stuck out her tongue and then hid in his arms. "Babe, I''ve realized something. The maid was spot on, I''m like your little sidekick, always sticking to you like glue. Every time you''re not home, I miss you. If I can''t find you, I want to go to the ces you frequent. Do you think I''m annoying?" How could Andre feel annoyed in such a situation? He was over the moon. He bent down and kissed his wife''s lips. Although he couldn''t kiss her whole body right now, he still found joy in it. After the kiss, Andre didn''t move away from her lips. His lips opened and closed, the warm breath hitting Mia''s lips. "Mia, you have to stick with me for life, be my little sidekick forever, got it?" After saying this, he kissed her soft lips again. Miained, "My lips are about to break from all your kissing." So, Andre switched to kissing her little tongue. Chapter 160 Chapter 160 Mia could only protest with "mmmm" as she was kissed senseless by Andre. So caught up in the moment, she didn''t even notice his hands sneaking around her waist. Not until they began to slowly move up. Mia immediately came to her senses and pushed Andre''s hand away with her small hand, "Hey, hubby, you''re going too far!" Andre was lost in the kiss, wishing he could press his wife onto the desk right now. After a steamy make-out session, they made up. Andre went to shower while Mia hid in the sheets, shrugging off responsibility for their heated moment, "I had nothing to do with it, you''re the one who lost control." Andre closed his eyes in the bathroom. When he was single he was fine with not being physically intimate, but when he was married it was even tougher than it had been when he was single. Before, he didn''t want to have sex, but now he craved it and Mia kept refusing him. He felt like it was a test of his self-control. After showering, Andre came out wearing only a towel. Mia couldn''t help but admire her husband''s body, sneaking peeks at his chest muscles. She wanted to count his abs but didn''t dare to be too reckless. Andre intentionally paraded around the bedroom in just his towel. Mia pouted, "Hubby, go put on some clothes. You can''t tempt me into making a mistake." Andre looked at her, satisfied with her reaction, "I''m practicing my self-control every night. You should too." Mia, "You''re so sneaky." Andre raised an eyebrow, a smile ying at the corners of his mouth. His phone rang, he picked it up and said, "Hello." Mia curiously crawled to the end of the bed to watch him answer the phone. Seeing hering closer, Andre told the person on the phone, "I''ll be there tomorrow, I have to stay with my kitten tonight. I need to stabilize her emotions." Mia frowned, "Hubby, you''re telling people I''m your kitten again." She thought that if he unted it like that, the whole world would know that Andre, the business tycoon, had taken a kitte for a wife. Ignoring her, Andre continued, "I didn''te homest night and my wife missed me. She stayed up all night crying, her eyes all puffy. If I''m not home tonight, she''ll be even more upset." "If she''s upset at home, I''ll be distracted outside," he added. Mia moved closer to him, not caring whether he was dressed or not. She just wanted to lean against him, watching him. Andre chatted for a bit more before hanging up. Mia looked at his handsome face, her eyes curved into little crescents, "Hubby, where are you going?" "Out of town." Without revealing more, Andre gently pushed her away, "Go warm yourself in the bed, I need to pack." "I''ll help you." Mia volunteered. She followed him closely. "You?" Mia nodded, "Just watch, darling. As your lover, I should know how to pack." With that, she pulled the suitcase to the closet, opened it, and started picking out clothes of different thickness. She folded them neatly and ced them into the suitcase. After a while, she went to the drawer, picked out several pairs of socks, "How many days will you be gone, darling?" "Prepare for five days." Mia picked out six pairs of socks, ced them in a storage bag, and put Andre''s underwear in a travel bag. After half an hour of bustling around, she pped her hands, "Done, darling. Are you satisfied?" Andre had been leaning against the door frame, watching her pack all along. He was more than satisfied. "Who have you packed for before? You''re so skilled," Andre asked curiously. Mia had learned her lesson before and didn''t want her husband to misunderstand, "I saw my mom packing for my dad. After a while, I picked it up." Andre was very satisfied. His wife was the first person who ever helped him pack. "Darling, you''re my first love." Andre was even more satisfied. "Am I your first love then?" Sneaky Mia''s starting to reel him in, "If you''ve ever had a crush, that counts as a first love too." Andre, "Silly girl." He found it hard to admit to his almost thirty-year-old self that she was his first love. Instead of answering, he turned around and left the walk-in closet. Mia followed him, "Honey, for fairness, you have to tell me too." Andre, "Can''t you feel who''s in my heart?" Of course, Mia could feel her husband''s affection for her. However, she cared about whether he had treated other girls the same way before. "So, have you treated anyone else this nicely?" Andre gazed at Mia deeply, "Mia, there''s a reason why I favor someone so much." "What''s the reason?" Andre confessed indirectly, "I hope she could be with me for a lifetime." Mia seemed to understand Andre''s meaning, "I promise you, honey, please continue to show me your love." When Andre went to change into his pajamas, Mia leaned against the closet door, "You have to be patient with me, indulge me, and listen to myints, my nagging, my rants..." She listed a bunch of examples of how he should be nice to her. After changing into his pajamas, Andre got into bed. Seeing him get into bed, Mia suddenly remembered something. She ran over and pulled a book from under her pillow and put it in her husband''s suitcase. "I almost forgot. Without this, you won''t sleep well at night." Andre chuckled. He adjusted his pillow and patted the spot next to him, "Get in bed and sleep. You didn''t sleep all night yesterday, you can''t stay upte tonight." Mia happily ran to her husband. She turned off the light and nestled into her designated pillow. Mia whispered in his arms, "Hubby, you can''t shout at me anymore. If you do, I might not give you children." Andre''s chest filled withughter. "Scared?" Mia nodded, "Scared." After being up for more than thirty hours, Mia fell into a deep sleep within three minutes of returning to her husband''s arms. Andre held her for half an hour, then carefully put a pillow under her head and got up, trying not to wake Mia. After tucking Mia in, he left the room. In Hansen''s room. "y the card, man. You''re such a lousy partner, can''t even cooperate with your teammate." Hansen was ying a new card game rmended by his dutiful daughter-inw. He was gaming online, winning hundreds of thousands of game coins, and then suddenly, he lost everything. He nned to win it all back. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. "Such a dumb move, we only needed a 4 to win. What a crap teammate, ugh. I gotta switch up and find a new teammate to keep ying." Chapter 161 Chapter 161 Andre knocked on the door, "Dad, can I have a word with you?" Hansen was a bit miffed and responded with a touch of mischief, "I''m already in bed." "Pleasee to my study in five minutes." With that, Andre left. Muttering under his breath, Hansen said, "Who does he think he is, bossing me around? In his dreams." Nevertheless, five minutester, despite his grumpiness, he dutifully trudged to Andre''s study, "So, your brother is here too?" Bruce was also in Andre''s study. Andre closed the door and seriously said to his father and brother, ¡°Dad, Bruce, I saw Molly.¡± At Andre''s words, Hansen realized the gravity of the situation. No wonder his son called them to the study. Mentioning that sensitive name, the atmosphere in the room instantly turned frosty. Hansen fell silent. Bruce asked his younger brother, ¡°Andre, are you sure you didn''t mistake her for someone else? It''s been fifteen years, and you may not recognize Molly even if you saw her now.¡± Andre shook his head, "I couldn''t have mistaken her, after all, only I would recognize the bite mark on her arm." Andre looked gravely at his father and brother, emphasizing, ¡°I didn''t mistake her, I actually grabbed her hand. Dad, Bruce, Molly is really still waiting for us.¡± Hansen turned serious, his yful demeanor nowhere to be seen. At the mention of that child, his hands clenched into fists. ¡°Andre, I hope you can let it go.¡± This was his fatherly concern for his son. Andre''s gaze was cold, looking at his father who was seated in the main seat, ¡°Dad, you tricked me into marrying Mia with Molly''s information, you know very well whether that information was true or false.¡± The information that Hansen gave him back then, heter found out it was all convincingly made-up. But at that time, he had already epted Mia in his heart, so he never argued with his father about it. Because he had found a wife, Andre treated that information as if it didn''t exist. But he never gave up on finding Molly, until that day, at The Silent Ring. He found that child, but she ran away. ¡°Dad, I n to go out of town for a few days to look for her.¡± Andre had selected 42 people from hundreds of names. These people were in different provinces and cities, and Andre decided to look for them himself. Hansen knew that his son would see through the fake information he provided, and he was prepared to confront his son. ¡°Andre, have you ever thought that Molly might be gone?¡± Andre had just insisted that he saw Molly; now he would never believe that his sister was dead! Andre, "Dad, Molly is your own daughter.¡± If his father didn''t want to look for her, that was one thing, but to tell him that she might be dead... Thinking of that adorable child from his past, Hansen''s eyes filled with tears. Yes, that was his own daughter, lost for fifteen years. How much he wished he could find that child, to hold her after work as he did when she was little, to listen to her coo, to y with her. Hansen raised his hand to wipe his tears. Molly, was the Cedillo family''s little daughter, always the apple of everyone''s eye. She was the younger sister of Bruce, and the sister of business tycoon Andre. When she was a child, her mother fell ill due to missing her too much, her condition repeatedly worsened and ultimately she passed away. This was a permanent pain in Andre''s heart. He lowered his head, recalling the scene from fifteen years ago. That year, he was 13, just started junior high school. His beloved little sister was only 5, held tightly in his arms. The abandoned building was overgrown with weeds, the ground littered with bricks and wood, as well as ropes used for binding. Andre was covered in wounds and blood. Molly cried out in terror, and she reached out and gently shook Andre, whose eyes were swollen from the beating. Her cries awakened him. ¡°Andre, Dad and Bruce wille to find us, open your eyes and look at Molly. If you don''t look at me, I''m scared.¡± Little Molly also had blood on her body, that was Andre''s blood, who was protecting her when those kidnappers were beating him. ¡°Molly, don''t cry, I''ll protect you, I won''t let them take you away.¡± Andre''s voice was very weak, but his hands were unusually strong, protecting his sister from being taken away by the bad guys. Molly cried and said, "If I get lost, you, dad and mom, big bro and sis-inw must find me and bring me home. I''m scared without a home.¡± ¡°You won''t get lost, you won''t, I won''t let you get lost.¡± Molly was smart, as a child''s intuition was always strong. She felt she would not be able to find home, so she kept crying and couldn''t speak. She couldn''t find any birthmarks on her body, and Molly started crying again. She was afraid she would be ugly, and her brother would not recognize her when they met on the streets. So, she went harsh on herself. In front of Andre, she lifted her arm, grabbed the flesh on her arm, and bit down hard. At that moment, she cried out in pain, her whole body was sweating, but she still left a bite mark on herself. Andre pulled on her small arm, ¡°Molly, don''t bite yourself.¡± Molly only let go after she had bitten herself until it bled, then she started crying loudly, ¡°It hurts.¡± Andre held his little sister, tears streaming down his face. ¡°You won''t get lost, even if I get lost, I won''t let you get lost.¡± Later, someone came, picked up a brick from the ground, and hit Andre''s head with a heavy blow. Just before Andre passed out, he could still hear his sister''s crying, and he told his sister, ¡°I will definitely protect you.¡± Then, he fell into darkness. When he woke up, everyone told him, Molly was gone. Andre copsed and cried bitterly, he ran out and searched day and night for his sister, but still couldn''t find her. During that time, the Cedillo family was shrouded in gloom. Bruce fainted from coughing up blood on the road while looking for his sister. He almost died in a car ident, because he hadn''t had a good night''s sleep for a month. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Their mom fell ill and couldn''t get up, and she needed to rely on oxygen in the hospital to keep the strength. Andre would often go MIA, only to resurface at the hospital to visit his mom. He would make promises to his mom, who was confined to a hospital bed, that he''d surely find Molly. Then, his mom passed away too. Andre was shattered. This was his dark phase at the age of 13, where he lost his sister and then his mom. Hansen aged overnight. There was no more sparkle in his eyes and no more smiles on his face. Andre never stopped searching for his sister, not for a single moment over the years. When he saw that kid with the bite mark on her arm, he decided that he''d find her no matter what. He wouldn''t let go of any shred of a chance, even if it was just wishful thinking, he was willing to take it. "I can''t rest easy until I find Molly." As a kid, Andre was a real gentleman, like ad from a rich family, mature,posed and polite. But after the major catastrophe in his family when he was 13, he started to glorify violence and turned gloomy. He thought Molly''s disappearance was because he wasn''t strong enough. If he was stronger, he could have protected his family. That was when The Silent Ring was born. Chapter 162 Chapter 162 After taking over Cedillo Inc., he''d been working his butt off, making magic happen, all while searching for his long-lost sister. Looking for a kid who''d been missing for fifteen years in a sea of a billion faces was like looking for a needle in a haystack. Fifteen years. Nobody stuck around that long. Even though his brother was the mayor, and he missed his sister too, he eventually quit looking. Did Hansen love his little girl? Sure, he did, but he also gave up on the search. So, Andre made a vow to stay single, not letting family ties hold him back. He won''t let family get in the way of his search. Mia''s sudden appearance was a beautiful curveball in his life. He fell for her, trying his best to bnce between being a husband and the search for his sister. Mia was a ray of sunshine in Andre''s life, warming his heart and bringing new emotions into his life for the first time in fifteen years. She was soft and gentle, and she made her way into his heart, showing him that there''s still good in the world. Once you''d had a taste of the good life, you can''t give it up. As Andre finished speaking, Bruce wiped tears from his eyes. All three men, father and sons, were teary-eyed. Andre quickly hid his sorrow and told his father and brother, "I''m gonna take off for a few days to look for my sister. Look after Mia for me, will ya? Make sure she doesn''t do anything dangerous. If she gets out of line, give me a call." His sweet Kittemia at home was always on his mind. Every time Andre had to leave, he''d worry and let his family know. Bruce agreed to his request. Hansen asked, "Where are you headed?" "Wherever there''s a lead." Andre replied. Late into the night, the moon hid behind the clouds as if feeling the loneliness of the Cedillo family. The dark clouds covered the moon''s tears. The father and sons sat in silence for a long time before getting up and leaving. Back in the bedroom, Andre saw Mia lying on the bed. She was like a warm sun, pulling at his heartstrings. The family he built with her brought him joy and obligation. He returned to his spot, gently lifted her head and ced his arm under her neck. She was in a deep sleep, not even aware of his kiss. She felt something soft, and she thought she was eating jelly. She even bit him in her dream. "Mmm, tasty." Andre was speechless. He touched his bitten lip and chuckled, "What are you dreaming about that you bit my lip?" She called out in her dream, "Hubby, honey." Andreughed again, muttering to himself, "So you dreamt of eating me." The bedroom lights were off. He pulled the covers up and cuddled with Mia to sleep. Bruce never really left. He went to his father''s room. "Dad, if there are things you don''t want to tell Andre, you can tell me. Do you know where Molly is?" Hansen''s face was streaked with tears, and he didn''t have the time to wipe them away. Bruce knew how his family was. They never gave up until the very end. So why did dad give up? "Where is Molly?" Hansen couldn''t hold back his tears. After a long while, he said, "She''s with your mother." Bruce''s eyes turned red, and tears filled his eyes. "Dad! We can''t just talk about Molly like that." Bruce couldn''t ept it. Hansen wiped away his tears and asked, "Bruce, how many years have you been in public office?" Bruce calcted, it had been 25 years. Hansen asked again, "Do you think Andre''s wealth canpete with a country''s ie?" Bruce stayed silent. Andre''s taxes were equivalent to the annual ie of some countries, so naturally, his wealth couldpete with a country''s. "Is it because you have no power, or Andre has no money? Or we have no connections? Why haven''t we found her after all these years?" Hansen''s rhetorical question made Bruce realize something. The middle-aged man couldn''t hold back his pain and started crying in front of his father. "When did you find out?" Hansen knew fifteen years ago, "Your mother didn''t die of longing. She saw your sister''s body and couldn''t ept the reality. She died the next day. After your mother passed away, I didn''t dare to tell you and Andre." Hansen''s tears fell on the nket, wetting a patch. "You were barely sleeping at that time, staying awake for days. Andre was on the verge of copse after Molly''s disappearance. I was afraid that if I Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. told you the truth, you couldn''t handle it." Bruce had a family, so he might be a bit more rational. Andre was almost irrational at that time. He was afraid Andre couldn''t handle the blow and wouldpletely copse. His wife lost her faith at thest moment and passed away. Even at the very end, Hansen didn''t dare to prepare a funeral for his daughter. Only he and the butler attended Molly''s funeral. Hansen sat alone by his wife''s and daughter''s tombstones for a whole day and night. Every time Andre went to look for Molly, he stayed at home, hoping for the so-called miracle, but was always disappointed. He didn''t dare to tell the truth, so he let his daughter live on in Andre''s heart. At least that was his pir of strength. A person without mental support was like a walking dead. Hansen was enduring for his two sons, pretending their sister was still alive, giving his sons hope, but giving himself despair. Seeing Bruce''s happy family, Hansen wanted to find a good wife for Andre, so that when he passed away, Andre wouldn''t be alone. Bruce was middle-aged and should know all this by now. When he got old, Bruce would visit Molly''s grave. Hansen and Bruce talked untilte into the night. Bruce understood his father''s good intentions. He went home, his eyes swollen. Naomi had fallen asleep before he got home, still in the position of reading a book. Bruce went over, pulled back the covers, and gently carried his wife back to bed. Staring at the woman who built a happy family with him, Bruce leaned down and kissed her forehead. Naomi woke up in surprise and quickly checked on her husband. What she saw were his red, swollen eyes. "Honey, what''s wrong?" Naomi quickly got up, and asked her husband with concern. Bruce shook his head, "Nothing, just a mosquito bite. It''ll be fine by tomorrow." Naomi got the hint that her hubby didn''t want to talk about it, so she didn''t push. She fetched an ice pack and started massaging his eyes. Bruce was lying on his wife''sp, tears rolling down his cheeks andnding on her legs. The warmth of the tears made Naomi''s leg feel warm, but at the same time, it broke her heart. She didn''t ask. Instead, she leaned down and nted a soft kiss on him. She let him know that she was always there for him in her own way. The next morning. As Andre went for his morning jog, he swung by his nephew''s room and roused Leo out of his sleep. "Dude, what''s up?" said Leo, who got off the hook the night before. Mia must have sweet-talked Andre into letting him slide. So, he wasn''t sent to detention. Andre said, "Come jogging with me." Leo was a bright kid. He knew that his uncle wouldn''t drag him for a jog without a good reason. Uncle Andre must be up to something again. Chapter 163 Chapter 163 Early in the morning, Leo and Andre were running on their home treadmill in their workout gear. "I''m gonna be away for a few days, so keep your eyes on the school. If you go to The Silent Ring again, you''re gonna be in big trouble when I get back." Andre added, "You gotta tell me what she''s up to every day." "No can do, you want me to be her stalker or what?" Having said that, Leo got a smack on the back of his head from his uncle. "I told you to protect her!" Holding the back of his head, Leo winced in pain, "She doesn''t need my protection, it''s me who needs hers." Andre, "You''re hopeless. I''ll get you a boxing coach when I get back." Leo responded, "Even if I learn, I won¡¯t be able to beat her." Andre stopped running, hands on his hips, turning to look at his useless nephew, "Can you at least try to be a man?" Leo shook his head. Andre sighed, after all, this was his own nephew, he couldn''t really beat him. After that, Andre took him for a few moreps before heading home. When Mia woke up, she roamed around the house in her pajamas looking for Andre. "Where''s my hubby?" The servant answered, "Right behind you." Mia turned around to see her husband walking towards her with a smile. He was dressed in his workout gear, looking at her with a loving gaze. "You''re looking for me again?" Mia pouted and walked over to hug Andre''s waist, "I thought you left already, I didn''t even get to see you off at the airport." "After breakfast, I''ll head to the airport." Mia, "I want to see you off." Andre smiled and agreed, "Alright, let''s eat quickly then, you have ss in the morning." After breakfast, Leo got tasked with driving duty again. In the back seat, the couple was being affectionate. "Honey, you have to call me every day. Only men are allowed in the room." Andre chuckled and wrapped his arm around his wife, "Sure." Mia added, "If any girl asks for your contact, just say your wife doesn''t allow it." "Okay." "Mmm. And, you can''t get drunk when I''m not around, men are most likely to lose control when they''re drunk. You once kissed me when you were drunk." Andre suddenly remembered the first time he kissed her, it was when she was being noisy, he pinned her down and kissed her, and from then on, he was hooked. Looking deeply into her eyes, Andre promised her, "I won''t drink when I''m out." "Good, you promised, I''ll be checking in on you from time to time." Andre nodded. Leo, who was driving, felt like a third wheel. "What did I do to deserve you guys in my past life, that I ended up being your nephew in this life." At the airport, Andre was ready for the security check. Mia clung to her husband''s arm, unable to let him go, "Honey, let''s hug one more time." Andre hugged his wife, "I''ll be back in a few days, be good at home." "Honey, a farewell kiss." Andre''s smile bloomed instantly, he lowered his head and gently kissed his wife''s lips, taking only a brief taste at the airport. "Go home, I owe you all the kisses for these few days, I''ll give them all back when I return." Mia looked just like a little kitten at the time. Just like every day when Andre went to work, she was always reluctant to let him leave, always gripping his trouser leg, only wishing he could stay by her side. Leo couldn''t stand it anymore. Married people were so annoying! He pulled Mia away, "If you keep clinging to my uncle like this, he''s gonna miss his flight, and you''re gonna bete." Only then did Mia let go of her husband and waved him goodbye. Once in the car, Mia started to justify her actions, "Every time my hubby and I part ways, it''s just as sweet as our honeymoon, it''s normal for me to miss him, right?" "Mia, you guys didn''t part ways, you''re just apart for a day. And you guys are newlyweds!" Mia, "Since I''m a newlywed, it''s normal for me to miss my hubby, right?" Leo shook his head, he felt that Mia became dumb after falling in love, he missed the fiery-tempered Mia of the past! In the car, Mia rolled down the window, enjoying the autumn breeze against her face, calm and "Leo, I''m nning to give my hubby a surprise." Leo, "In a broader sense, your surprises are usually more like shocks." "Seriously, I want my hubby to be proud of me." Mia was full of ambition. Upon reaching school, she told Jade about her n. "What? You want to learn how to drive!" Mia nodded vigorously, then showed off her love, "My hubby always wants to spend money on me, he''s already thinking of buying me a car. So I need to learn how to drive, so I can pick him up from work every day." Jade cautiously touched Mia''s forehead, "You don''t have a fever, why would your brain short-circuit like that?" Leo also said, "You should change something to learn. We can''t afford your antics. Don''t be reckless." But Mia was firm in her decision. She was determined to learn how to drive, and no one could stop her. Mia was usually sweet and steady, but the old her had a fiery temper. It was this temper that caused minor idents every time she drove. Later, everyone advised Mia to give up learning to drive, considering her safety as well as others''. One person said it, two people said it, and gradually, everyone around her was saying it. So Mia remembered, she couldn''t drive, and driving was irresponsible to others. Over time, she developed a fear. Mia was experienced in fighting, but when it came to driving, Leo was the expert. Mia was a woman of action. She went home and told her family about her n to learn driving. Hansen was very supportive. Leo couldn''t believe it, "Grandpa, don''t regret it." Hansen was puzzled. Seeing that Leo was about to spill the beans, Mia quickly stopped him. "Dad, I''ll take you out for barbecue once I learn how to drive." Hansen, "Feel free to take any car in the garage!" He was yearning for street food for a long time. Naomi''s stance was clear. She would support Mia no matter what. After dinner, Leo, the substitute coach, came on the scene. Mia said, "I won''t hit you unless you scold me." Leo deliberately confused Mia, he tricked her, "Please remove ''unless'' and ''won''t''." Sure enough, Mia was confused. She started to mumble to herself, "If you scold me, I won''t hit you?! You''re not scolding me, so I should hit you?!" Realizing she was being teased, Mia immediately swung her hand. Leo scrambled away, with Mia hot on his heels. N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. "If you''ve got the guts, stop running." "I don''t have guts." "Leo, you''re asking for a beating, aren''t you." "Mia, you''ve just revealed your tomboy side!" Chapter 164 Chapter 164 The racket in the courtyard could be heard loud and clear within the house. Hansen was feeling down today because of the conversation about his daughter yesterday. The noise from the courtyard caught his attention, and he walked over to the window to check out themotion. He saw two people chasing and messing around. The butler standing beside him rified, "Leo started it." After watching for a while, Hansen remarked, "Mia is such a goofball." "If she wasn''t a goofball, how could she be a match for Mr. Andre?" Hansen watched from the window for about ten minutes, until he saw his great-grandson being beaten by Mia, begging for mercy on the ground. Naomi saw her son being beaten too, but she just took a quick nce and went on with her business. After the beating, Leo took Mia to the garage to choose a car. "If you''re going to choose, pick your husband''s. Don''t touch our cars." Mia scoffed, choosing her husband''s car. "That small ck sedan, it looks cheap, bring it out for me." Leo nced at the car Mia pointed to, then back at her. "Do you know what car this is?" Mia shook her head cluelessly. If you asked her about boxing moves, she could write a book, but if you asked her about car models... Mia said, "Two W''s?" Leo was speechless. He dragged Mia to the car logo and said, "Take a closer look." Mia bent down to look at the logo. "Well, a ''v'' on top and a ''w'' below. What''s the problem?" Leo asked with an exasperated face, "You don''t know what brand this is, do you?" Mia nodded, "I see a lot of people driving cars with this logo on the streets. It can''t be that expensive." "Remember this, the car is called a Phaeton." Mia nodded, "Is it more expensive than my husband''s Ghost?" "Well, not that much, but this car is still worth over a hundred grand." Mia inspected the ck sedan, "Leo, did your uncle get ripped off when he bought this car?" Leo, "You''re hopeless." Leo nced at the other cars in the garage and finally said, "You have good taste, at least you can crash this car without worrying about the price." Handing over the car keys, Leo said, "Take this one, and drive as you please. By the time I get back, I bet the car will need to be towed to the junkyard." In the evening, when Bruce came home from work, he noticed the ttened flowers by the pond. He asked the maid, "What happened to the flowers by the road?" "Ms. Mia was learning to drive and ran them over." Bruce didn''t say a word. He noticed a fence around the courtyard fountain, "Why is there a fence?" "Ms. Mia was learning to drive. Leo asked for it to be put up." He asked again, "Where is everyone?" Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. "Ms. Mia was learning to drive, and everyone went to the backyard yground." In no time, he went there too. What he saw was the family''s usual leisure yground now filled with family members. Hansen, the butler, and his wife were all present. His son was sitting in the passenger seat of the car. There were also some maids standing aroundughing. Bruce asked, "What happened?" The maidsughed, saying Mia was causing havoc at home. Hansen told her that she couldn''t block the road when driving, let alone parking in the middle of it, which was a big no-no. Mia''s driving skills were poor, and as she got more and more nervous, she was more prone to making mistakes. It was a ssic case of "You attract what you fear." Just like in ss, the more she couldn''t answer the teacher''s questions, the more likely the teacher would pick on her to answer. It was a vicious cycle. She drove the car into the flower bed and admitted her mistake. She almost hit the fountain and mmed on the brakes. Hansen was scared out of his wits. The fountain was specially modified by an expert to bless the Cedillo family with prosperity for generations, and ensure the family''s prosperity and safety. He had already seen Mia''s driving skills. Hansen hurriedly came out and shouted, "Mia, stop driving,e and y games with me." Mia was determined to surprise her husband. "You y by yourself. If you run out of game coins, you can use mine. My phone is on the living room couch." Hansen wasn''t in the mood to y games; he was scared out of his wits. At this moment, Mia sessfully made him temporarily forget his worries. Being reliable as usual, Hansen immediately called the maids to put up protection for the house''s fountain, then guided Mia to drive the car to the backyard yground. Thankfully, the space here wasrge enough for Mia to drive. Hansen quickly ran to the yground to watch Mia, afraid that she would get hurt while driving and Andre would me him. Naomi heard about Mia learning to drive. She put down her work and personally went to guide her. "Mia, don''t be nervous, just listen to me. When you drive, just look ahead, don''t suddenly turn the steering wheel. Turn it slowly." Mia nodded. Her ears: I''m listening, I''m listening. Her hands: Speed up, speed up. Hansen was also guiding from the side, while Leo was randomly giving orders. Bruce was watching the lively scene in the yground from the door. At this moment, he felt a sense of family unity. The whole family was working together on one thing, expressing their own opinions, arguing and squabbling, making quite a scene. He watched from the outside, growing more and more fond of Mia. She was the same age as his sister, naive, but quite eloquent. Bruce walked in. Mia was being bombarded by everyone''s words and was feeling dizzy. She shouted, "Bruce." Everyone then realized he was there. "Why the sudden urge to learn to drive?" Mia said, "I want to surprise my husband. I¡¯ll be his driver, and take him to and from work." Bruce''s face was filled with smiles. He saw the rity in Mia''s eyes, and he believed, this girl could heal his brother. "Do you need me to teach you?" Bruce asked. Mia hesitated for a moment, then shook her head. In this family, she spoke the least with Bruce. Him sitting next to her would make her feel even more embarrassed, even to the point of feeling like she was on pins and needles. Leo was the person she was closest to in this family, and only by his side could she rx a little. "Bruce, you''ve been working all day, you must be tired. Go home and rest." Mia said to Naomi, "Naomi, you should also go back and apany my brother. Don''t worry about me, you should go back." However, neither Bruce nor Naomi left; they were all worried about Mia''s driving skills. So, she was up front driving, trying to get a feel for it, with the whole Cedillo family trailing behind. Andre tried to call his wife, but the phone just kept ringing on the living room couch with no one to pick it up. Later, he called Leo. Leo put the phone to his ear, "Yo, Uncle A." Chapter 165 Chapter 165 He signaled with his finger, and Mia made a turn. "Where''s Mia? I called her but no one picked up." "Ah, your wife is cooking up a surprise for you." Mia nodded in satisfaction. This friend of hers was really reliable. Upon hearing his nephew''s words, Andre smiled and began looking forward to the surprise his wife was preparing. "Tell her to call me back tonight." Leo agreed and after hanging up, he resumed his coaching job. Not wanting to get hit, he became more cautious with his words. Instead of swearing loudly as he initially intended, he conveyed his thoughts subtly. "Some people''s hands are like Peppa Pig." Mia was left speechless. Seeing how quickly Mia was turning the steering wheel, Leo reconsidered his words, "Mia, you''re holding a steering wheel, not an engine." Afterwards, Mia turned the steering wheel a bit slower. After a while, he couldn''t help but speak again. "You drive so slow you''re killing ants on the road, why don''t you get out and clean up their bodies?" Mia sped up. Gradually, Leo started to talk nonsense, forgetting he was sitting next to a T-Rex. Oblivious to the woman next to him looking pissed, he continued to nag, "You''re driving a car, not a rocket. We don''t want to fly into space when you turn." Mia took a deep breath, keeping her eyes on the road. Sje mmed on the brakes. "Why did you stop? You''re going to...ow, not again." Mia punched him straight away, grabbing his hair and pulling hard. "Are you coaching me or trying to amuse yourself? I''m being way too nice today, letting you ramble on." "Let go. You asked me to teach you, can''t I say a few words?" Leo raised his hand trying to loosen Mia''s grip. Mia started to get angry, feeling that Leo was just trying to provoke her. "When I drive at 20, you say I''m slow. When I drive at 30, you say I''m fast. You''re just picking a fight with me." Four people then followed them. Hansen was the first to see his grandson getting hit again. He chuckled while chatting with the butler. "I''ve never heard about Mia being violent before." Hansen no longer believed Mia''s ims of being gentle. It just seemed too fake. The butler said, "Sir, I wanted to investigate this earlier. But you said, this child has clear and innocent eyes. Her face is gentle and cute, and she is definitely one of the Cedillos, no investigation needed." Hansen decided to y dumb, "Did I say that?" The butler nodded. Remembering the first time he saw Mia''s picture, Hansen sighed, "Ah, getting old really does make you forgetful. I don''t even remember saying those things." The butler quietly watched as Hansen yed dumb. Naomi and Bruce also witnessed their son getting beaten up by Mia. "Dear, do you think Mia''s been influenced by Andre and developed a bad temper?" Bruce said, "Don''t me everything on Andre. Although he''s rough, his temper isn''t bad." Naomi said, "So are you saying Mia''s personality is the problem?" "What I''m saying is, it must''ve been Leo who pissed Mia off, that''s why she hit him." Leo from the side, "I''m running away from home. I can''t live here anymore!" It was alreadyte and all the Cedillos had returned home. On the first day, Mia felt relieved, "Thank God I didn''t hit the wall." But her relief didn''tst two days. The Cedillos'' housekeeper came home shouting, "Hansen, something bad happened, Ms. Mia had a car ident." "What!" Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Everyone went to see her. At the ident scene, Mia was standing off to the side, looking rather embarrassed. Leo was also standing there, looking very guilty. "Is everyone okay?" Hansen looked at Mia and Leo with concern. Both of them shook their heads. Naomi looked at the ruined hut and asked the two, "What happened?" Mia nced at Leo, her gaze somewhat evasive, unable to speak the truth. Leo also didn''t dare to say why he hit the wall. Both of them were afraid of being reprimanded by the family. It all began with Leo causing trouble. He egged Mia on to crash into the hut. Mia disagreed. "That''s where my husband used to punish you. I¡¯m not crashing into it." Leo said, "It''s also used to punish you. When my uncle''s not at home, just drive into it. Then we won''t have a ce to be punished when we do something wrong. Plus, you''re a beginner, everyone knows you''re not good at driving. If you crash into it, no one will me you." Mia looked at the hut where she used to be locked in. She still shook her head, "Don''t try to ruin my rtionship with my husband. We just made up, what if he gets mad at me when hees back?" "He won''t. In our family, he dotes on you the most. He won''t get mad knowing you crashed into it." Mia shook her head, "f you want to crash, you do it. Don''t think I don''t know, you just want me to crash and then make me take the me." "Fine, I''ll do it. But you have to take the me with me." Mia, "I don''t believe you''d really do it." "If you don''t believe it, just watch." Then the car ident happened. Back at home, Mia hung her head low. Usually rowdy Leo didn''t dare to open his mouth today. He crashed into the hut and was scared the moment it happened. The bricks flying over made his heart tremble. "Leo, I''ve always trusted your driving, what happened today?" Leo, "I..." Mia apologized and took the me, "I''m sorry, I didn''t control the speed well and crashed into it." "It''s okay, it''s okay." Naomi said again, "I''m not ming you. I''m worried about you. How are we supposed to exin this to Andre when hees back?" At that moment, Andre called. Mia was almost too afraid to answer the phone. Afterwards, after it hung up, Leo''s phone started ringing. He handed the phone to Mia, "You answer it, it''s definitely for you." Mia handed the phone back to Leo, "It''s for you, you answer it." The two kept pushing the phone to each other. Finally, Mia picked up the phone and walked to a corner, "Hello, darling~" "Why did it take so long to pick up?" Mia bit her lip, her head leaning against the wall, "Um, I got a little held up." "What happened?" Mia admitted her mistake, "I''ve wrecked our car, and also hit the hut." The other end of the phone went silent for a few seconds, "It was Leo who did it, right?" Mia thought to herself, she didn''t even say anything. Andre said, "If it was you who crashed, you would''ve called me immediately weeping and apologizing. Not like now, filled with guilt and too scared to answer my calls." Mia looked puzzled, was she that kind of person? Andre asked again, "Were you in the car when Leo had the ident?" Chapter 166 Chapter 166 Mia recalled Leo''s words, saying, "Leo was worried that if something happened to me, you would kill him, so he let me out of the car." "Well, he won''t have to die today then." Mia ryed Andre''s words to Leo exactly. At that moment, Leo broke out in a cold sweat, "Gosh, this man is really formidable. How could he know about this when he''s not even here?" Mia was also very curious, "Yeah, how did he know? It''s not like he could have just guessed it, right?" Soon after, the Cedillo family''s doctor arrived. Pointing at the two kids on the couch, Hansen said, "They''re the ones who crashed the car. Check them out, especially the girl. She''s Andre''s wife. If anything happens to her, we''ll all pay when Andre The doctor nced at Mia, who also nced back. She felt somewhat uneasy. After the check-up, the doctor confirmed that they were both fine, only then did the Cedillo family breathe a sigh of relief. This incident had given them a good scare. From then on, Mia''s movements were even more restricted in the family. "I''m going to school in Leo''s car." The next day, after breakfast, Mia was changing her shoes at the door with her backpack. Hansen hobbled over with his walking stick. "Hold on! Let the family driver take you to school today." Mia and Leo exchanged nces. "No need. Leo''s driving skills are top-notch." Leo nodded in agreement. Hansen shook his head. He was adamant about not letting the two kids drive. "No way, I don''t trust you two behind the wheel. Just wait a bit. The driver is on his way." Mia and Leo were both resistant. Leo even grabbed the car keys, nning to sneak off. "Leo, stop right there!" Hansen shouted. Leo obediently stood in ce. He turned around, pleading with Hansen, "Grandpa, yesterday was an ident. It won''t happen again today, so don''t be so nervous. I can''t not drive forever." However, Leo was his only grandson. Hansen didn''t dare to take the risk. Soon after, Bruce appeared, "Leo, Mia,e with me. I''m passing by the school anyway." "That works. As long as they''re not driving." So, Mia got to ride in Bruce''s chauffeured car to school for the first time. Right at the school entrance, Jade Byrne and Chad Byrne were talking. Based on years of deep friendship, Leo concluded, "Jade must have had another fight with her brother." Mia agreed with his assessment, "Looks like Jade has pissed off Chad again." "Who are you guys talking about?" Bruce asked. Mia pointed at the girl in a purple sweater and white long dress at the school entrance, "Her." Bruce followed her gaze. He saw Jade''s face and smiled. "Is this the Jade that you and Leo often mention at home?" Leo said, "Yes. Her dad is your colleague." Bruce kept staring at the beautiful girl. He asked, "She looks quite adorable, just like Mia. How old is N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. she?" "She''s the same age as Leo and me." Bruce continued to stare at the girl. "Dad, stop looking. There''s no way she and I could be together." Leo said. Bruce shook his head, saying, "You''re not good enough for a girl like that." In his heart, Leo thought: I really need to get a paternity test done! They got out of the car and stood at the school gate, watching Bruce drive off. Jade noticed them. She said to Chad, "Stop it. Mia and Leo are here. I''ll be embarrassed if you keep on." Chad also noticed them. He suppressed his anger and said, "Jade, if you chat with Donnie privately again, I will really hit you." Jade nodded, and pushed Chad, "Go on. I''m going to bete for ss. Bye! Drive safe. Bon voyage, and if you get lost, just don''te back..." Jade inadvertently spoke her true feelings. Chad tapped Jade''s head lightly, "Are you hoping I get lost?" "You''re my real brother, so you absolutely can''t get lost. If you''re not there, no one will scold me, and no one will punish me. And then, I''ll start dating boys. So, to maintain my single status, you absolutely must not get into trouble." Chad knew Jade was being sarcastic. He pinched Jade''s cheek, "Thank God you''re my sister. If you were someone else, I would have hit you a long time ago." Jade, " You can only bully me in our family." Having said that, she got a knock on her forehead from her brother. Mia looked at them and said to Leo, "Did you notice, Jade is a bit like you?" "In what way?" "You both love to talk in sarcasm." Leo had nothing to say. He felt that it was true. Before leaving, Chad warned Jade, "I''ll pick you up after school today to buy a new walking stick for grandpa. Be good at school." After his car drove off, the three friends gathered together. "Jade, why did Chad chew you out again?" Jade said excitedly, "He won''t let me date! I''m already 20, I should be dating. But he''s single, so he wants me to stay single too." Mia handed her book to Leo. Jade also handed her book to Leo. Leo, standing in between them, was speechless. Then, the two girls, arm in arm, walked ahead together. "I heard Chad mention Donnie. What did you two do?" "I secretly applied for a new phone number. I thought Chad wouldn''t find out. I went to the police station, met Donnie and exchanged contact information again. However, just two dayster, Chad found out again. He''s been giving me a piece of his mind all morning." Mia said, "I''m really d I don''t have a brother." When Chad arrived at the police station, he stormed in and demanded, "Where''s Donnie?" Donnie was sitting in his chair, keeping his head down, not daring to say a word. Someone ratted him out. Chad strutted over, grabbed Donnie by the arm, "Come spar with me." All the cops around were mentally sending Donnie their condolences. "Officer Chad, I''m not feeling too hot. Find someone else to spar with you." Chad replied in a huff, "Well, so when you were flirting with my sister, you were feeling just fine? Did you feel tired when you were texting my sister? You even want to pick my sister up from school! In your dreams!" Chapter 167 Chapter 167 Donnie thought in surprise, "I''m screwed. He found out about my pursuit of Jade again." "Officer Chad, Jade and I like each other." Before he could even finish his sentence, Chad kicked him down onto the floor of the training area. Donnie once again saw the spot where he had been beaten so badly he couldn''t stand up. Just seeing this piece of floor made his bones ache. "Officer Chad, I was wrong. Can I delete Jade''s new phone number right now?" Chad flexed his wrist. He clenched his fist, looked at the man begging for mercy on the ground, and stepped towards him... Half an hourter, Chad left the training area. He saw the subordinates who were watching outside and sternly said, "Meeting." Instantly, the conference room was filled with officers. Except for Donnie, even the police station''s medical examiner was there. "What are we discussing today?" A new officer raised his hand to ask. Chad took a deep breath. He pressed his hands against the edge of the table and looked at his subordinates. "Who has a sister between the ages of 18-25, and is still single? Sign up." The crowd asked, "... what are you going to do?" "Set Donnie up with a girlfriend." Everyone was speechless. At this point, Donnie was still lying on the ground. He looked at the ceiling, telling himself over and over, ¡°Chad is a devil. He absolutely cannot pursue Jade again. Life only happens once. He must cherish his life and stay away from Jade.¡± When Jade arrived at the ssroom, she saw someone waiting for her at the door. "Jade, do you have a moment?" "I''m busy." Jade firmly rejected this boy. "I, I, I have something to tell you." The boy stuttered a bit. Jade stood in front of him, and looked him up and down. Once she remembered who he was, Jade said, "If you''re interested in pursuing me, you might want to take a page from Eaton''s book. My brother is a cop. He will investigate everything about you. If you think your behavior has been upstanding, then go ahead and pursue me. Of course, I will reject you. But if you have any secrets you don''t want people to know, then I suggest you stay away from me and don''t talk to me. Otherwise, I will expose all your secrets and let everyone at school know." After saying this, Jade went into the ssroom. After being exposed by Jade, the whole school knew about Eaton being beaten up by three women. Due to the pressure, he even took a year off from school. This example served as a warning to all the boys in the school: Don''t chase Jade! Mia thought Jade was so cool. She almost wanted to p for her. The boy at the door shyly lowered his head, "Sorry for bothering you." After he left, Mia also entered the ssroom. Mia asked Jade, "Weren''t you a bit too harsh on that boy just now?" "Not at all. He wasn''t here to confess his feelings to me. Didn''t you see the gift he was holding? He came to give a gift." Jade said. Mia nodded, "Is it because he wanted to pursue you, so he wanted to give you a gift?" Jade shook her head and started to talk about the boy''s family situation. "He came to thank my brother. Chad refused to meet his family, so he came to find me." "What happened?" Mia asked. Jade exined quietly, "That boy''s sister was walking home alone after school and was kidnapped by a gang of thugs on the way. The rest you can imagine. When Chad received the emergency call, he led the team to arrest those thugs. I heard that two of the thugse from good families and know a few powerful government officials, so other cops didn''t dare to arrest them. Only Chad stubbornly caught them. He even offered to help the girl''s family sue them, making the thugspensate her. Thiswsuitsted for over a year. In the final trial this year, the thugs were sentenced to 12 years. After the case ended, the girl''s family has been wanting to give my brother gifts, even money to express their gratitude. I saw that boy at the police station, so when he came just now, I threatened him to go away." Jade added, "There are many peopleing and going at the ssroom door, and our ssmates always like to eavesdrop on us three. I didn''t let him talk too much and told him to hurry up and leave for his own good." After hearing this, Mia also felt sorry for the girl''s experience. "It''s really dangerous for women to live in this society. Jade, you did a good job just now." Jade raised her eyebrows proudly, "Of course." Both of them had forgotten about Leo. Suddenly, Jade called out to Leo, "Leo, do you want to date me? You might go to jail for it!" "Get lost." Leo lowered his head and continued working on his homework. Mia leaned in and saw that he was writing down definitions of terms, so she asked, "Why are you writing this?" "This is our homework from thest ss, and it has to be handed in this ss." Leo said without raising his head. Jade also curiously leaned in to have a look, "Did the teacher assign homeworkst ss?" Mia shook her head, "I have no idea. I spent the wholest ss ying poker on my phone with Hansen." Jade: "Then what was I doing?" Mia shook her head. She was so engrossed in her game that she forgot to see what Jade was doing. Seeing Leo doing three sets of homework alone, Mia took pity on him and volunteered, "This is my homework. I''ll do it myself." Jade also suddenly found her conscience. She believed that students who don''t do homework are not good students, so she also said, "The one that''s mine, I''ll do it myself." So, the three of them bowed their heads and began to do their homework together. While they were writing, they were also chatting. "Mia, what are we going to do about the final exam if we keep skipping ss? I don''t care if I fail, but you''re the principal now. If you fail, you''ll be theughingstock of the school." Mia answered while writing, "No worries, my husband is way more useful than these old professors. I''ll have him help me review before the exam and I won''t fail. Leo, what about you? Andre ising back soon. Do I need to prepare a coffin for you?" Leo asked Jade, "Jade, I have a question. If you see Chad today, could you ask him for me: if an uncle kills his nephew, will he be sentenced to death?" N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. "Sure, I''ll ask for you." Mia joined in too. She said, "Jade, could you also ask for me: what would be the punishment for harboring a murderer?" Jade: "...I suspect there''s not a single normal person in your family." These questions all involved death, murderers, and harboring criminals. Jade reckoned her two friends were a bit scary. As soon as the afternoon sses were over, Chad popped up at the school gate. Without wasting a single second, he whisked Jade away in his car. Looking all wistful, Leo said, "With Chad acting like this, Jade doesn''t stand a chance of dating." "Forget about him. Let''s also hurry home and keep practicing our driving." However, as soon as they got home, they found the garagepletely car-free. Where''s the car? Mia asked Hansen, "Where''s our car?" "I''ve stashed them away." After that, everyone fell silent. Awkwardly, Hansen exined, "Mia, why don''t you watch TV with me? It''s way more fun than driving." Chapter 168 Chapter 168 "I don''t want to watch TV! I want to learn to drive." Hansen switched TV channels. He pointed to the TV and said, "Come on, watch this French series, practice your French." "Nope." "How about I join you for a Korean drama? Young girls like you are all into these heart-fluttering love stories, right?" "Not interested." "Japanese series? Japanese dramas all have stunning scenery and profound meaning." "No fun." Hansen switched channels again, "Then you must check out Thai dramas. Marrying first, then falling in love is a ssic plot in Thai dramas, perfect for you and Andre. Isn''t that exactly what you two did?" Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Mia turned off the TV, "If you really want to see that plot, my hubby and I can act it out for you every day. But you have to give me my car back. I need to practice driving, or there won''t be a surprise for Andre when hees back." Hansen voiced his concern, "I''m afraid you might kill yourself driving." Mia said, "My driving skills aren''t that bad." However, Hansen stood his ground. "I''ll treat you to that Indian snack shop again." Hansen snorted arrogantly, "Do I look like someone who can be bought with food?" "Twice." "Trying to bribe me with food is an insult." Mia quickly held up five fingers, "Five times at the Indian snack bar, plus a barbecue, and a Chinese hot pot! If you agree, give me the car; if not, I''ll buy one right now. Andre gave me a lot of money. I haven''t even spent it yet." Hansen shamelessly added, "...one more fried chicken meal." "Deal!" Mia lifted her hand, high-fived Hansen, signaling the deal was done. Soon, the butler handed the car keys to Mia, "Ms. Mia, please be careful." "I will. Don''t worry." Mia took the keys, dragging Leo to practice driving. Naomi worriedly went along to watch it. Hansen was nning what he should eat first. After Bruce finished work, he also went to the yground to watch Mia drive. On the yground, Naomi and Bruce walked behind the car, facing the cool breeze, enjoying the peaceful life at the moment. During their casual chat, Naomi mentioned Mia, "Our family really needs a child like Mia. She brings life to the house." Bruce held her hand, walking and saying, "That''s why God sent Mia to our family." "Mia haspletely won Andre''s heart. At noon today, Andre called me, asking me to keep an eye on Mia and make sure she drives safely. He said if it''s too difficult, he doesn''t need the surprise." "Andre already knows?" Naomi chuckled, "Your brother is really smart. When Mia ran into the small ck house with the car yesterday, he guessed what surprise she was nning for him. He specifically told me on the phone, ''Don''t let Mia know that I''ve guessed her surprise. Otherwise, she''ll be disappointed.''" Naomiughed, "Seems like even tough guys have their tender moments. Andre really cares for Mia." "Feelings are mutual." Bruce looked at the girl seriously learning to drive in front of him and smiled. In the mall. Jade, being led by Chad, reluctantly wandered through every store. "Did you hit Donnie again?" Jade asked loudly. Chad replied, "Not only did I hit him, but I also found him a girlfriend." "Why did you do that! Only you and Donnie are good-looking in your police station. If you weren''t my brother, I would definitely chase you. But since you are my brother, I can only choose Donnie. The others are not as good as him." Chad nced back at Jade without saying a word, continuing to lead her to the next store. "Did you hear me, Chad?" Chad ignored her. He led her into a women''s clothing store. "Pick your own clothes. Stop nagging in my ear." "Fine, then I''ll choose by myself! I''m gonna max out your credit card!" Jade let go of Chad''s hand and went to the fitting room with a few pieces of clothing. While waiting, Chad sat on the sofa flipping through a magazine out of boredom. The salesperson next to him handed him a cup of water, "Sir, please have some water." "Thanks. Just put it on the table. Jade will be thirsty when shees out." After a while, Jade came out in a new outfit. She excitedly ran to Chad and spun around, asking, "Do you like it?" "Looks good. Buy it." Jade happily ran back to change into another outfit. After a while, she came out and asked Chad, "How about this one?" "Buy that too." Jade happily ran back to try on more clothes. Chad sat leisurely on the sofa. He had an aura of rectitude and extraordinary demeanor. From afar, he looked like a valiant general. Jade walked out of the fitting room, looked at her brother''s profile, and said, "You''re so handsome. I wish you weren''t my brother." Chad lightly tapped her forehead, "Even your own brother is not safe from your crush?" Jade hugged Chad''s waist, looked up at this man who spoiled her, and smiled. "You''re so handsome. What kind of wife will you get in the future?" Chad broke free from her embrace, then took out a bank card and handed it to the salesperson, "I''ll take all three outfits." The salesperson immediately processed the sale. Jade was thrilled and temporarily forgot about Donnie. For the rest of the time, Jade cooperated well with Chad. She was also enthusiastic when picking out a cane for her grandpa. "We haven''t been home to see grandpa and grandma for a long time. Should we buy a piece of clothing for grandma too?" "Grandma likes shy clothes. They don''t have what she likes here." Jade also remembered her grandma''s taste. She would dress herself up in bright colors every time she went out, like a peacock in full disy. She realized they wouldn''t be able to find the country-style clothes her grandma loved here, so she said, "Then let''s buy jewelry. If we only buy a cane for grandpa and grandma doesn''t get a gift, she''ll be jealous." "Here''s my credit card. Go pick a gift for grandma, and I''ll pay." Hearing this, Jade was overjoyed. She took Chad''s credit card and headed straight for the luxury store. By the time they got home, night had fallen. Lights outside the mall were lit up and the fountain at the entrance had started spurting water. Jade, arm in arm with Chad, left the mall with a heart full of joy. The diamond bracelet on her wrist sparkled in the light. She seemed to float as she walked, "My dear brother, I promise I''ll be a good girl and not piss you off. I''ll never fall in love, never talk back, and only care about you." Chad just snorted in disbelief. He thought, ¡°Anyone can say nice things, and it''s not the first time Jade said something like that.¡± Every time he spent money on her, she''d turn into a little angel in front of him. But as soon as the novelty wore off, he''d be the bad guy standing in the way of her love life again. Her constant whining could drive him up the wall. Chapter 169 Chapter 169 When people are busy, it always feels like time goes by so fast. Mia''s learning to drive at home harder than ever these days. Whenever Leo was too tired to resist, Mia would always push him to go to sleep. "Aren''t you going to sleep?" Leo would ask. Mia shook her head, "I''ll go in a bit." At first, Leo actually believed her. One night, he got up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom and saw the car lights on in the yard. It freaked him out so much he thought he was seeing ghosts. He ran downstairs to find out that Mia was still practicing her driving. "Mia, it''s already three in the morning! Are you nning on surprising Andre with your dark circles when he gets back?" Mia was having a hard time with reverse parking. Leo just ended up being her punching bag. Then Leo was beaten up by Mia. Mia pulled two all-nighters. She would sleep during the day in ss and practice driving at home at night. She even took the car out on the road to sharpen her driving skills. Finally, Friday arrived. Mia thought back on her driving progress and cheerfully said, "My husband is Jade was also excited, "I''m going to my grandparents'' house. My brother promised to drive me there." Leo was the only one not excited. "Jade, can you take me too?"Content provided by N?velDrama.Org. "Sorry. Face the reality." Leo turned to Mia, "Can you help me out?" Considering all the help Leo had given her with her driving, Mia decided to help. "I''ll do my best to protect you, but Andre still has the final say." Jade joked, "What''s Leo''s life worth? I bet even if Mia wanted Andre''s life, he''d be willing to give it to you." Mia shyly yed around with Jade. Another day passed just like that. At the school gate, Chad was already waiting for Jade. His trunk was filled with gifts. They brought them home for their grandparents. On the way home, Jade insisted on driving. Chad had no choice but to give in. When they reached a less crowded area, he handed the wheel over to her. He switched on the hazard lights when he sat in the passenger seat. Hazard lights are a warning signal indicating that the vehicle may be a danger and reminding other vehicles to steer clear of it. Jade felt insulted looking at the blinking warning lights. "You underestimate me." Chad asked, "Then let me ask you, what must you remember to do when turning?" Jade tentatively asked, "turn the steering wheel?" Chad immediately unbuckled his seat belt. He got out of the car, walked over to the driver''s side, and pulled Jade out of the car. Jade bumped into Chad''s arms. "Why did you pull me?" Chad was so exasperated he didn''t know what to do. He knocked Jade on the head. "Go sit in the passenger seat. Record my driving and study it when you get home." Jade pouted, realizing she had said the wrong thing. She obediently sat in the passenger seat. "I don''t have enough storage on my phone." In reality, Jade just didn''t want to hold up her phone for the entire trip. Chad, of course, knew she was lying but did not reveal her. Chad said, "You can use my phone to record the video." Jade took Chad''s phone, but instead of recording, she started sneakily ying a game. Chad was left to handle all the driving. Jade, sitting in the passenger seat, enjoyed munching on fruits, snacks, and ying games. The drive home for Mia and Leo was also handled by Mia. "Andre will be back tomorrow. Today, I need to drive one more time to review." Leo tore off a piece of paper from his notebook and handed Mia a pen. "Write me a guarantee first. If you crash my car, you have topensate me for the original price." Mia looked at Leo''s Porsche. "I won''t crash." "I don''t believe you." Leo wrote on the paper, "Date: October 26; Weather: Clear; Location: Havenbrook University." He continued, ¡°Today, Mia drove Leo''s Porsche from Havenbrook University home. If there are any scratches or collisions on the way, Mia mustpensate Leo at the original price. If she refuses to Then, the note was ced in front of Mia. "Sign it." Mia took the paper and asked, "Are you really going to use my husband to threaten me?" Leo replied, "Andre gives you so much money every month. You just have to take a little bit out of it and I can get a new car." Mia looked at the guarantee paper in her hand, feeling a bit angry. "Mia, I''m warning you. If you don''t sign, don''t even think about driving my car today." Mia held the guarantee. She looked at the car, picked up the pen, and signed her name on the paper. "Is that okay?" Leo hadn''t reacted yet. He thought Mia would hit him first. "Hey, you didn''t hit me?" After saying that, Mia punched him. "You''re really asking for a beating! If I don''t hit you, you feel ufortable?" In Arcanville. Conner Nettleton looked at his good friend. "Mr. Cedillo, you flew three to four hours to see me, just to invite me for a coffee?" Andre treated coffee like alcohol. "I promised Mia not to drink when I left. She might call to check on me at any time." In the past few days, Mia would call him as soon as she finished ss. Although she said it was to share her daily life with him, in reality, she was strictly monitoring his actions. Every night before bed, she would ask him to video chat. Conner asked, "Mr. Cedillo, are you joking that you would listen to a woman?" Andre replied, "Of course. If I don''t listen to her, she might fly here from Havenbrook to find me. She''s quick-tempered, so I can''t upset her. She might even hit me if she gets angry." Andre knew his wife well. Conner was shocked, "She dared to hit you?" Andre miserably drank another cup of coffee. So, Andre gained another bel" in the eyes of his friends - he was a victim of domestic violence! Of course, the spreader of this news was Conner. At this moment, Conner felt very sorry for Andre. His wife often ran away from home after their marriage, and even abused him at home. "Andre, why don''t you just get a divorce? There are many better options. Why are you sticking with Mia?" Andre shot him a look, "You want to end up with a broken tailbone like Mars Arrowood?" Thinking about Mars''s unfortunate encounter, Conner immediately shut up. "Then why do youe to see me?" In the past five days, Andre had seen many people, but none of them had the familiar bite mark on their arms. He even started to question if he was seeing things. But he had indeed caught the person, and saw the bite mark. Every time he closed his eyes in these few nights, that scene was all he saw. He felt like he was going crazy with this question. "I can''t find Molly. I''ve looked everywhere, but she''s nowhere to be found." Upon hearing Molly''s name, Conner stopped joking. "You''re being too hard on yourself. You were only 13. You did your best to protect Molly. If you wanted to protect Leo, you couldn''t look out for Molly; if you wanted to protect Molly, Leo would have been kidnapped. Whether as a brother or uncle, you''ve done your best. Your mother passed away due to long-term illness. She wouldn''t want you to me yourself like this." Chapter 170 Chapter 170 In the past, Andre used to drink to drown his sorrows, but now he could only drink coffee to calm his irritability. "If I had held her a little tighter, Molly wouldn''t have gone missing, and mom wouldn''t have died. My family wouldn''t have fallen apart." Andre had been kicking himself for fifteen years over this. He lost his sister over his nephew, and his mother passed away out of anger. Seeing his father in a funk, he felt like he couldn''t face him, and he moved out from the Cedillo Mansion as early as possible. Bruce already had his own family. He didn''t want to be a burden to him. Just like that, since the age of 13, he had been living alone in the deste Maplewood Estates. Conner knew that the pain in Andre''s heart couldn''t be washed away with just a few words. Nobody could fathom the pain he was feeling. Andre''s friends all had a thought in their hearts, but nobody dared to voice it out to him. One time, Asher asked, "Could Molly have died? Maybe your dad didn''t want to upset you, so he didn''t tell you. Otherwise, why wouldn''t he continue looking for her?" Upon hearing this, Andre and Asher had a brawl. After that, nobody dared to tell Andre that Molly might be dead. However, all four of his friends believed that Molly was probably dead. Only Andre was still holding on. Conner sighed in his heart. He continued to have coffee with Andre. They drank so much coffee during the day that they couldn''t sleep at night. Andre didn''t mind the sleeplessness, as he could chat with his Kittemia. Conner, on the other hand, couldn''t sleep. He tossed and turned in bed, thinking, "Did Andre y me?" But he was the one who drank the coffee, not Andre forcing him. He could only continue to be sleepless. In the bedroom of Cedillo Mansion, Mia was having a video chat with Andre while applying a face mask, "Honey, Leo teased me, saying that I would give you my dark circles as a surprise when you Andreughed and said, "Good punch." Miaughed, and the face mask became deformed. She looked more like a kitten. Sheined, "Honey, don''t talk! Just look at me. Otherwise, I''llugh when I see you, and then my face mask will deform." Mr. Cedillo watched his adorable wife take care of her skin. "What are those two sticks?" "Beauty sticks." Andre asked, "Aren''t you too young to start taking care of your skin?" Mia shook her head, "Definitely not. I have to start early. If I don''t take care of my skin now, it''ll be too Andre was speechless. Video chatting with his adorable wife was the only happy thing in Andre''s day. He met with those girls every day, looking at their arms. His once hopeful heart was bing more and more desperate. Only when he saw Mia full of energy at night could he get somefort. Even if he didn''t speak, just watching her applying her face mask, Andre couldn''t bear to look away. At midnight, Mia said she was going to sleep, and they ended the call. The next day, Mia got up early. After washing up in the bathroom, she went straight to Naomi''s room. She knocked on the door and asked, "Naomi, are you awake?" Naomi replied, "Come in." Naomi got out of bed. Bruce asked, "What''s the matter?" He was also nning to get up and see what was going on. Naomi replied, "You don''t need to go. Andre ising back today. Mia probably wants me to help her pick out clothes." Walking out of the room, she saw Mia, and sure enough, that was it. "I don''t know what to wear for a date. Can you help me pick something?" Mia said anxiously. Naomiforted her with a smile, then followed her to her room. Her bed was already piled with clothes. "These......" Mia said, "These are all the dresses I''ve tried. I''ll try them on again, and you can see which one looks good." Mia picked up a pink dress, put it on, then casually tied up her hair, "How about this?" Naomi saw Mia''s legs exposed and shook her head, "Andre will be too worried about you being cold to notice if you look good or not." Mia thought that what her sister-inw said made sense, so she quickly changed into another outfit. Naomi said, "This outfit doesn''t look young enough. It doesn''t look like someone who is in love." Mia continued changing clothes. By the time she finally got dressed and put on makeup, it was already noon. Mia tried to keep her makeup intact while eating, so she opened her mouth so wide that she could stuff a whole egg in it. Even Leo was worried that Mia''s mouth would split open. "Mia, doesn''t your mouth hurt?" He asked. Mia had just stuffed a big piece of chicken into her mouth. Her mouth was bulging, and she couldn''t speak. Hansenughed, "Mia is so impressive. She can eat a whole chicken leg in one bite, it''s like a circus act." Hansen passed another chicken leg to Mia, "Perform it again." Mia puffed up her mouth, looked at the chicken leg in Hansen''s hand, and fell into deep thought. Andre boarded the ne, and Mia left home. Before she drove off, Leo kept reminding her, "You must drive slowly. Be careful." After some time of practice, she had gained some confidence in her driving skills. She started the car and began to head for the airport. Unbeknownst to Mia, as soon as she left, another car followed her. Naomi and Hansen didn''t trust Mia''s driving skills, so they had Leo follow her secretly. Mia hasn''t developed the habit of checking the rear-view mirror, so she didn''t notice she was being Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. followed at all. Upon arriving at the airport, Mia drove into the parking lot. Leo also followed her and watched her. She parked the car, picked up her bag, and got out of the car. She didn''t look back at the number of her parking space, and headed straight for the exit of the parking lot. Leo said, "Is Mia''s brain empty? She didn''t remember anything." It would be extremely difficult for her to find her car among hundreds of carster. Naomi lightly knocked on his head from behind, "Respect your elders. She is your auntie." Mia was all dolled up and ready to greet her hubby. She was rocking a floral maxi dress with a ck trench coat thrown over, plus a small LV bag to match. Just standing there in the airport, she was already turning heads. She looked young and fresh-faced. Today, Naomi did her makeup, adding a touch of mature allure. Some guys around were buzzing to make a move on Mia. But as soon as they got close, she shot them a warning nce. Then, Mia switched spots, waiting eagerly once again. Pretty girls always have guys who want to hit on them. " Are you here to pick someone up too?" Another guy approached. Mia nced at him, "What''s up?" "Nothing much. Just thought you''re pretty and wanted to get to know you." Mia immediately put some space between them, "I''m married. I don''t want to know you." Chapter 171 Chapter 171 The guy who just found out she was married was struck dumb, rooted to the spot. Mia didn''t give a damn about his reaction. She moved to a quieter spot, waiting for her hubby. Waiting was a bore, but since she was waiting for her dear heart, she was full of anticipation. She waited. The passengers of the same flight had alle out, but her husband hadn''t shown up. At the parking lot, Leo had this nagging feeling he forgot something. Suddenly, it hit him. "Mia wouldn''t be waiting at the regr arrivals gate, would she?" Andre took the VIP exit. If Mia was waiting at the regr arrivals gate, she''d be waiting but couldn¡¯t find him. The thing Leo just remembered, Andre had already figured out. After exiting the VIP entrance, Andre found that his surprise-plotting wife was nowhere in sight. He turned back towards the regr exit of the airport. Sure enough. The woman scanning the crowd was actually his wife. Andre knew at a nce, Mia had never received anyone at the airport before. He approached her from behind, discreetly clearing his throat. Mia looked left and right, but didn''t spot anyone. Finally, she turned around and looked straight into a pair of familiar eyes. He was smiling down at her, watching his wife who was looking for him. "Honey~" Mia shouted, then flung herself into his arms, hugging his waist tightly. Those who were trying to hit on Mia earlier all turned to look at the man. Andre set down his suitcase, embracing his wife. He lowered his head. Mia stood on tiptoes, bringing her face up to his for a kiss. "You''re here," Andre said, smiling at his wife. Mia replied with a grin, "Honey, I''m the only one picking you up today." Feigning surprise, Andre yed along with Mia''s anticipation. "All by yourself? You can drive? Or did you take a taxi?" Mia couldn''t help being happy. She said excitedly, "I really drove here myself! I know you''ve always wanted me to learn to drive, to drive myself to school in the morning instead of riding with Leo. So while you were away, I was seriously practicing every day. I can hit the road now. If you don''t believe me, Andre gently stroked Mia''s hair, then took her hand and said, "Alright. Let''s go check out your progress. If you pass, I''ll take you car shopping tomorrow." Excited, Mia led Andre towards the exit. Andre''s gaze lingered on his wife who seemed somewhat different today. She seemed... gentler than usual. Usually, she was like a child, full of girly charm. But today, she looked like a mature and gentle woman, with a seductive air about her. Andre eyed his lovely wife from top to toe. He swallowed hard. Mia had already spotted the satisfied look in her husband''s eyes. She was also quite pleased with her makeup today. Her hair was loose, the ends slightly curled, giving off a gentle and elegant vibe. Now she truly embodied the charm of a married woman. Holding hands, they rode the elevator down to the underground parking lot. Mia started walking ahead. She scanned the rows of license tes, "Weird... where did I park the car?" Andre was a bit uneasy. "Mia, did you note down the parking spot number when you parked?" His question left Mia a little flustered. "What number?" Her counter-question left her husband dumbfounded. Andre seemed to have an inkling of what was going on. He stood in the middle of the parking lot, taking a sweeping nce. There were at least three hundred cars on this floor alone. If they had to check each one, their date today would surely go down the drain. Mia was nning to drive for him, to make him happy. At this moment, she was like a child who had done something wrong, standing beside Andre with her head down, "Honey, I don''t know where I parked the car... I didn''t pay attention to my surroundings when I got out of the car, I went straight to find you." Andre didn''t me her. He believed it was all because Mia was too eager to see him. "It''s alright. I don''t have anything nned today, I can apany you to find the car. While we''re at it, you can take a look at all these cars and see which one you like. Anything you like, I''ll order it right away, and we can pick it up tomorrow." Mia felt he was spoiling her too much. This made her feel a bit guilty. True to his word, Andre patiently strolled through the parking lot with her. In this stuffy, unventted environment, his patience was trulymendable. Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. "Mia, do you like this car?" He was even seriously picking out cars for her. Mia was seriously looking for the car she drove here. Suddenly, Mia spotted the Volkswagen logo. She pointed excitedly at the car, "I found it!" She pulled out her car keys, ready to unlock the car, but the car didn''t respond to her key. "Ah? Is the key broken?" Mia walked up to the car. She bent over, peered through the window at the interior, then frowned, "No, this isn''t our car. The interior of our car isn''t like this." Andre nced at the license te. He remembered they didn''t have this car. "Mia, which car did you drive here?" Mia replied, "The Phaeton. It just got fixed yesterday." Andre asked patiently again, "Do you remember the license te number of that car?" Mia pursed her lips, her expression telling her husband the answer. Andre was in trouble. His Kittemia not only forgot where she parked, she couldn''t even remember the license te number. "The license te number is four 8s. Remember this time?" Andre said. Mia nodded. "Honey, that car just now really looked like ours..." Andre wrapped his arm around her and they continued the search. Every time they saw a sports car, Andre would ask her, "Do you like it?" Mia shook her head, "Sports cars are too low. I can''t see the road when I''m sitting in one." "Uh huh, I see." Andre took mental note. They spent almost forty minutes on the first floor of the parking lot. Leo sat on the third basement floor. He didn''t need to think to know the couple must be looking for their car. Hansen figured they would need more time to reach the third basement, so he opened the car door, got out, and started doing his exercises. "One two three four five six seven eight, once more, one two three four five six seven eight..." Hansen was counting the beats for himself, hopping around the parking lot. Leo nced at the time. Andre''s ne had been on the ground for an hour and twenty minutes already. He decided to do something nice. Chapter 172 Chapter 172 Leo picked up his phone and sent Andre the location where Mia had parked. The moment Andre''s phone buzzed, Mia immediately turned her head and asked, "Who texted you?" Andre didn¡¯t know either. He and Mia both checked his phone. Upon seeing Leo''s profile picture, Mia noticed the message content, "D32? What does that mean?" Andre was at a loss for words. He nced at Mia, thinking to himself, she really doesn''t know anything. Suddenly, Mia remembered. With a sudden realization, she said, "Oh~ I got it." Then, fire sparked in her eyes, "Is he sending you the chest circumference of other girls?" Andre was totally speechless. He nced at Mia. Mia also looked down at herself, then raised her head to look at Andre. "When I get home, I definitely need to beat up Leo!" She decided to punish the one who dared to send her husband the measurements of other girls. Andre asked, "Mia, what''s your size?" After he finished speaking, he was hit by Mia. "Don''t ask!" "Are you a D cup?" Andre was hit by Mia again. Mia was too impulsive, a ticking time bomb, with a massive explosion. Andre tried to take Mia''s hand, but she angrily shook him off. He tried to hug Mia. Mia looked at his hand, warning, "Want to experience my wrestling skills?" With a strong pull, Andre pulled Mia into his arms, "No matter what your size is, I like it." Mia was so angry that she immediately started fighting with Andre. As a result, Mia was surprised to find that she, the Gold Level "Mimi" of The Silent Ring, couldn''t even Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. move one of Andre''s hands with both of hers! Mia lifted her foot. Andre caught her leg, pulled her into his arms, and wrapped an arm around her waist. "Honey, did you have professional training?" Andre looked at Mia''s lips. He leaned down to kiss her, "You owe me these past few days, it''s time to pay up." Mia tilted her head back. "Don''t even think about kissing me if you don''t exin." Mia was angry. She was no longer gentle while dragging Andre''s suitcase. "You can get angry at me, but don''t take it out on the suitcase. The things inside are not my gifts." Andreughed as he spoke to Mia''s retreating figure. After he finished speaking, Mia immediately treated the suitcase much more gently. She walked ahead, her smile impossible to hide. She was happy that he brought her gifts from his business trip. He had been missing her all along. "Mia, turn left." Mia pointed at the vehicle in front, "I haven''t found the car yet." Andre said, "Look from the bottom up, you might find it." Mia believed Andre''s words and took the elevator downstairs as he suggested. Arriving at the third basement level, Mia exited the elevator and said, "Honey, let''s go for Italian food Leo yelled to Hansen who was exercising, "Grandpa, grandpa!" Hansen was still engrossed in his workout. Leo coughed twice. He shouted loudly, "Hansen Cedillo!" This time, Hansen finally turned his head towards him. Leo waved at him, "Hurry up! They''re here." Upon hearing the news, Hansen immediately ran back into the car. He quietly closed the car door. Leo also closed the car window. Leo pointed at the couple appearing in front, "Quickly lie down. Mia has good eyesight." The three people in the car all bowed their heads. Andre first saw the car that Leo and the others were in, then he saw his car in front of that car. "Honey, this car looks just like ours! The license te... Wow, we found our car!" Mia was the only one excited. Andre pretended to be clueless at this moment. He looked at Mia''s excited expression, but always kept an eye on the car behind with his peripheral vision. "Mia, did your dad and Leo say anything to you when you left the house?" Mia thought for a moment and said, "They were afraid I would get into a car ident, so they both reminded me to be safe." Andre understood. So it was because they were worried about Mia''s driving skills, that''s why they secretly followed her. He saw that car, and felt warmth in his heart. Being good to his wife, was being good to him. Andre felt grateful to his family. "Honey, get in the car quickly! My braking skills have improved, I definitely won''t hurt you anymore. When parking, I won''t let the car slide." Mia got in the car. Andre put the suitcase in the trunk. When he walked to the back of the car, he nced at the three people in the other car. Hansen had his head down, only showing a pair of expressive eyes, making eye contact with his son. Leo was lying on the steering wheel, not daring to raise his head. Naomi in the back seat hid behind Leo''s seat. Andre thought to himself, ¡°you guys have worked hard.¡± "Honey, get in the car quickly." Andre sat in the passenger seat. He asked Mia, "Do you know what cars our family has?" Mia shook her head, "There are more than ten cars at home. I can''t remember them all. Leo said it''s okay even if this car crashes, and that''s why I drove this one." Andre understood why she hadn''t noticed the followers behind. Because that car, she didn''t even know was theirs. "Mia, where are we going?" "Let''s go eat first. I''ll take you to watch a movie in the afternoon." Mia started the car, slowly driving it out of the parking spot. Andre saw her rapid progress, and didn''t hesitate topliment her. "Looks like you''ve been working hardtely." "Of course! I didn''t even work this hard in college." Mia drove slowly out of the parking lot, then drove ording to the instructions on the phone navigation. "Dear, am I going the right way?" "Yes. Just keep going like this." Mia confidently stepped on the gas. Leo also sat up. He let out a sigh of relief, hoping that when he got home tonight, Andre wouldn''t scold him for the previous incident. The mission of the three to protect Mia ended here. They drove home. Ever since seeing Mia, the smile on Andre''s face never faded. On the road, Mia proudly said, "Next time, I''ll drive the whole family out. I want them to see that I can drive too." Andre said, "Turn right. Signal." Mia obediently followed the instructions. This time she wasn''t flustered. Andre''s face was full of pride. "In the future, when I attend social events, I can drink without worries." Chapter 173 Chapter 173 Mia asked, "Because your wife will pick you up, right?" Andre nodded. He looked at the road and said, "Yep, my Kittemia is simply amazing! She''s learned to drive, so she can y chauffeur for her hubby in the future." Mia felt excited at the prospect. "So, just send me the address when you''re nning to drink. I''ll surely pick you up." "Sure." On the way, Mia drove very steadily. ¡°Even if a personcks talent, as long as they work hard at learning something, the end result will never disappoint.¡± They arrived at the Italian restaurant Mia mentioned. She intended to park at a roadside spot, but unfortunately, on this Saturday afternoon, the restaurant was packed. All the roadside spots were taken. She absolutely hated reversing. Now, there were only five parking spots left, and all of them required reversing. She frowned at the predicament. Andre saw her expression, knowing this was a challenge for her. "Mia, pull over. I''ll help you reverse." Mia''s frown instantly smoothed. She looked at her husband. His words sounded even better than "I love you." She smiled, parked the car, and stepped out. The restaurant staff at the entrance was puzzled. Were theying in for a meal? Mia said with a smile, "I can''t reverse, so I asked my hubby to park." Mia felt, having a husband is great. And her husband being Andre was the best thing ever. Andre hopped into the driver''s seat, one hand on the gear stick, the other on the steering wheel. He checked the rearview mirrors and swiftly reversed into the spot. Mia pped admiringly, "Honey, you''re awesome!" Andre chuckled. He got out of the car and took Mia''s bag. With one hand locking the car and the other holding her bag, Mia gave him a hug. "Honey, will you teach me how to park when we get home?" Andre pinched her cheek, "I''ll teach you." During their meal, Andre''s phone kept ringing. Mia grumbled, "Can''t they even let people rest on the weekends? Thispany, I swear." Andre said, "Mia, that''s mypany." Mia retorted, "I''m criticizing you." Andre knew his wife was unhappy. Today was supposed to be their date, but he was constantly disturbed by work. So, Andre told his employees in the work group, "No overtime during weekends unless it''s a major issue." Then, Andre posted an Instagram story, "On a date. Do not disturb." The picture was a gorgeous one of Mia. The first one to like the post was, of course, Andre''s father. He alsomented, "Mia looks so beautiful in this picture." Leomented, "What beauty filter are you using?" Marsmented, "Don''t celebrate too early. If your wife disappears in a few days, don''t ask me to help you find her." Conner said, "Your wife looks so gentle and cute. How can you be beaten by such a girl?" Asher said, "The couples who show off their love publicly are the ones who break up easily." Teddy said, "You guys won''tst long! If I switch to selling coffins, I''d definitely make a fortune." Andre nced at his friends''ments. He put down his phone and said to Mia, "Mia, do you feel like hitting someone?" "Huh?" Andre said, "Some people aren''t blessing us." "Who?" Mia said angrily. "Mars, Conner, Asher." Mia asked him, "Honey, who is more important to you, them or me?" Andre looked at her, "You''re more important." Mia beamed. She said, "Then I won''t show them any mercy." Andre chuckled and shook his head. After their meal, Andre took her to a nearby mall for a stroll, then they went to the cinema. "Honey, there are a lot of people in the cinema. Don''t kiss me." Mia warned him in advance. Andre asked, "What movie are we going to watch?" Mia looked at him, not daring to reveal the movie ticket in her hand. Later, Andre discovered it was a fantasy romance film with many intimate scenes. He nced at the shy Mia. Mia said, "I saw that this movie had the highest rating online. People said it''s suitable for newlywed Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. couples to watch, so I bought it. Some also said that men can''t help but kiss their girlfriends while watching it, so I warned you in advance." Andre didn''t say a word, nor did he promise anything. He bought popcorn and drinks, cing them in Mia''s arms. They found their seats and sat down. The movie hadn''t even begun, but Kittemia was already munching on the popcorn. She chatted with Andre while eating, "Honey, I don''t think this is enough for me." He said, "Eat less. I''m taking you to Majestic Dining Enve tonight. If you eat too much popcorn, you won''t be able to enjoy the delicious foodter." After hearing about Majestic Dining Enve, Mia promptly handed the popcorn to him, "You help me eat some, otherwise I can''t help but eat while looking at it." Andre shook his head. He didn''t like these snacks. Mia tried to feed him twice without sess. She said, "You''re not willing to share my troubles at all." Andre just listened quietly. The movie began... Less than an hour into the movie, Andre felt someone leaning on his shoulder naturally. He looked and found Mia had fallen asleep. She had finished all the popcorn and orange juice by herself. After eating and drinking to her heart''s content, she didn''t watch the movie but fell asleep on his shoulder! Andre stared at her, a smile suddenly blooming on his face. She had burst into his peaceful life, making it sweet. Every time he saw her, he couldn''t help but smile, the joy in his heart uncontroble. He didn''t wake up the sleeping girl. He himself lost interest in the movie. After the movie ended, the lights came on, people around started talking. Mia woke up then, "Huh? It''s over? I just closed my eyes for a bit." Andre responded, "You closed your eyes for an hour." Mia looked around regretfully, "It''s all because I video-called with you tilltest night, and I woke up before dawn this morning, otherwise I wouldn''t have fallen asleep from exhaustion." People around them were leaving. The couple, however, sat quietly. Chapter 174 Chapter 174 When most of the people around had left, Mia stretchedzily, getting ready to leave as well. However, Andre didn''t seem keen on leaving just yet. His gaze was constantly on his wife. "Honey, why do you keep staring at me? Haven''t you had enough of looking at me at home? If you keep looking..." As Mia was speaking, Andre suddenly leaned in and kissed her. Perhaps it was because she had just eaten sweet popcorn, her mouth tasted sweet. Andre didn''t have a sweet tooth, but he did love the sweetness of his wife. Mia closed her eyes. "Cough cough... the movie is over," a staff member came in to clean up. Seeing the couple in the midst of a kiss, he couldn''t help but interrupt them. Mia was embarrassed to have been seen kissing her husband by a stranger. She covered her face with her hands, too shy to face anyone. Andre also felt the embarrassment, his ears tingling red. He got up, held his wife''s hand, picked up her bag, and left the cinema. Mia hid behind him as they walked out. It wasn''t until they got in the car that she rxed a bit. Miained, "I told you not to kiss me, but you just couldn''t hold back. Couldn''t you wait until we got home?" If Andre remembered correctly, she had responded to his kiss just now. Mia shamelessly said, "I responded to you because you seduced me. It''s all your fault!" Andre raised an eyebrow. She actually knew what he was thinking. Perhaps they hadn''t noticed that, at some point, Andre could guess what Mia was thinking just by one look in her eyes. The words that Andre didn''t say, Mia could guess in an instant. The couple gradually got to know each other, got used to each other, and understood each other. This newlywed couple was like an old married couple. On their way home, they encountered a traffic jam. Mia was nervous as hell. Seeing the long line of cars in front, she said, "Honey, can you drive?" Andreforted her, "It''s okay. I''m right here. If anything happens, I''ll handle it." Mia drove cautiously. Winter wasing. Mia, wearing a skirt, felt a bit cold. "Honey, can I turn on the car heater?" Andre nced at Mia''s legs. He took off his coat and put it over her legs, and then turned on the car heater. "Just wait for two minutes, the car will warm up." With her husband''s warm coat on her legs, Mia felt much morefortable. "It''s getting cold. Don''t wear skirts anymore. If you get frostbite on your legs, you''ll be ufortable for Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. the rest of your life." Mia pouted, "I just wanted to look pretty when I came to pick you up. I won''t wear this outfit again." "There''s a heater at home. You can wear it there." The car warmed up, and Mia wasn''t so nervous anymore. "Honey, there''s a traffic cop ahead! I don''t understand his hand signals." Andre reassured her, "It''s okay. You just drive." With him by her side, Mia was fearless indeed. She calmly drove past the traffic cop and continued on their way. "Hey, honey, where did you go this time? Why were you gone for so long?" Mia casually chatted with Andre. Mentioning the purpose of this trip, Andre''s smile faded a bit, "I went to find someone, but I didn''t find her." "Isn''t that a waste of time then?" Andre didn''t respond. Mia might think it was a waste of time, but to him, it was another disappointment. Mia parked the car in front of the Majestic Dining Enve. Here, she needed to reverse again. Andre switched ces with her again and backed the car into the garage. Mia thought their date would be highly romantic, but as the afternoon passed, she found that she was just naturally happy. Did she like Andre? Without a doubt, she liked him very much. Being with the person she liked, even just driving on the road, Mia could feel the beauty of love. After dinner, they went home. Andre said he was going to carefully select a luxury car for her tonight. Mia didn''t know much about cars. She just wanted to drive any car in the garage, but Andre thought that was too perfunctory. He insisted on buying her a new car. "You can pick whatever you want." Mia wasn''t picky. She left the task of buying a car to her husband and went back home, excitedly pulling her suitcase upstairs to check her gift. Andre watched her retreating figure and followed her into the house with a smile. Bruce Cedillo saw the smile on Andre''s face and thought of Mia''s lively demeanor. He felt relieved. His brother, after experiencing loss, had finally found his safe harbor. In the past, each time he went out looking for Molly, he set off with hope but returned with disappointment. He used toe home and just share the disappointing results with his family, then go back to Maplewood Estates to bear the loneliness alone. Only this time, although he didn''t find Molly, he wasn''t as depressed as before. It was that girl who had unknowingly warmed his heart. Back in the bedroom, Mia quickly opened Andre''s suitcase. She took out his clothes and sniffed them. They smelled clean. Mia hung the clothes in the wardrobe. She rummaged in the suitcase again, "Hey, where''s my gift?" Andre came back to the room and saw his adorable wife looking for her gift. He asked, "Where are my clothes?" "I hung them in the wardrobe." Andre said, "Go find your gift in the clothes." Mia got up from the floor, put down the suitcase, and happily ran to the wardrobe. Andre squatted down, closed his suitcase, put it in a corner, and went to the door of the wardrobe to watch his wife look for her gift. She first checked his trouser pockets, then his shirt pockets. Finally, she reached up and put her hand in his coat pocket. "Honey, I found it," Mia smiled happily. When she checked it out, it was a sparkling ne, matching the dazzling bracelet on her wrist, like a set. Mia jumped up excitedly. She ran over and hugged Andre in joy. Andre held his wife''s waist and told her, "Keep looking." "Is there more?" Mia''s eyes were full of surprise. Andre nodded. He had prepared many surprises for his love, for her to discover slowly. "Mia, keep looking for gifts. I''m going to talk to my father and Bruce." All Mia had in her head right now was the presents, she couldn''t care less where he went. She fished out a pair of earrings from another piece of clothing, then kept on hunting for more surprises. Seeing her happy, Andre turned and left the room. What he had to tell his family, of course, was the disappointing result. Chapter 175 Chapter 175 Even though Hansen was telling Andre not to be too hard on himself, he was losing hope too. Bruce had also epted that Molly was no longer with them. The three men had a long chat in Hansen''s study. Mia had found all five presents. She was so excited that she was rolling around on the bed, then she took photos of the gifts and shared them on Instagram. "The good thing about having a husband is that every time hees back from a business trip, he brings me presents and makes me feel adored all the time." Before she posted this, she had blocked someone. An hourter, Andre returned to the bedroom. The heavy topic had also affected Andre''s mood. Seeing Mia, he didn''t want to disturb her joy, "Mia, I''m going to take a shower." "Alright." Mia was still kneeling on the bed, taking pictures of her gifts. After a while, Andre came out of the bathroom. Mia curiously asked, "How did you choose these gifts?" Andre said casually, "I just bought what I liked." Mia jumped off the bed excitedly, walked up to her husband and kissed him. However, Andre didn''t respond to her like he usually did. He gently patted her head and told her to y on her own. Mia was confused. Why had he suddenly be so cold? She temporarily forgot her excitement and looked at the off-kilter Andre. Ever since he came back from talking with Hansen and Bruce, his mood had been off. "Sweetie, can we talk?" Andre asked, "Have you tried on the jewelry? Do you like it?" Mia nodded, but she didn''t continue talking about the gifts. Instead, she asked him, "Did your father scold you?" "No." Mia asked again, "But why do you seem upset?" He had been in a good mood when he was with her in the afternoon, but when he got home, his mood became strange. Looking at his expression, ordinary people wouldn''t notice anything. But Mia was different. She was very sensitive to the people she cared about. She sensed that her husband''s mood was unusual. She grabbed the sleeve of his pajamas, "We''re a couple." Andre was silent for a moment, then said, "Mia, do you think it''s necessary for me to keep looking for someone who''s been missing for fifteen years?" In his father''s study just now, his father and brother had been trying to persuade him to give up, to ept the fact that Molly might already be gone. "Just live your life with Mia. You must live well. You''re married now, you''re not alone. Half of you belongs to Mia." Bruce also advised him to live his life with Mia, to only think about the future, and not to dwell on the past. People who are too obsessed often find themselves in a bind. Andre was influenced by their words, and he began to waver. He started thinking about his lovely wife waiting for him in the bedroom. Mia...would she let him continue to look for Molly? Andre looked at his wife, anxiously and expectantly waiting for her answer. "You must persevere. You''ve been searching for fifteen years, which shows how important that person is to you. The person is like a lighthouse in the vast sea. As long as the light is on, the ship has a direction. If the light goes out, the ship will lose its way. Honey, I support you in continuing to look for that person. God is merciful. He sees how hard you''re working and won''t let you down. Maybe, you''ll find the person next time." Mia looked at Andre. For some reason, she felt sad for her husband. "Honey, if one day you''re tired and can''t go on, I''ll carry on for you. We''re one. I am you, and you are me. I''ll go with you. Even if it takes another fifteen years, as long as you don''t give up, I''ll never drag you down." Andre looked at Mia who was speaking firmly, and his heart was full of emotion. He pulled her into his arms and held her tightly. How fortunate he was to have met such a wonderful woman. Mia was held tightly by her husband, making it a bit hard to breathe. "Honey, I have one condition. If the person you''re looking for is my rival, I won''t just not help you find her, I''ll also stop you from looking for her." Andre turned his head and kissed her forehead. "You don''t have a rival. You never have, and you never will. Mia, the person I''m looking for is my sister." "What?" Mia looked up in shock. He had a sister? Weren''t there only two sons in the Cedillo family? Mia was very surprised about this suddenly appearing sister. "When I was in your officest time, you told me about a woman who left you...so that woman wasn''t your ex, but your sister?" Andre nodded. He said somewhat self-mockingly, "It wasn''t her who left me, but me who lost her." Miaforted her husband, "Honey, don''t be sad. What''s her name? I''ll help you find her." Andre smiled, "Molly Cedillo." "Molly?" ¡°Molly, Molly...strange, why does this name sound so familiar?¡±C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Before going to bed, Miay in the covers. The "pillow" next to her had finally returned, so she naturally leaned over. Andreughed. He turned off themp, then got under the covers. Hey on top of Mia, "You owe me for these past days, now it''s time to pay up." The man pressed down. Mia''s thoughts were interrupted. She felt like she was about to remember when she had heard the name "Molly", but in the next second, her rationality was reced by desire. She tensed up, her mind a mess. Her pajamas were pulled down to her waist. Her body was swaying back and forth. Andre tempted her, telling her to close her eyes and focus on his touch. He gently pulled her legs, making her lie down. Mia nervously pointed her toes. Her pajama straps fell off, revealing her chest. Her neck was hot and wet, her entire body ufortably hot. "Baby~" Her voice was as soft as a cat''s meow, making the man unable to suppress his excitement. Andre gently bit her earlobe. Mia shivered all over. She was so nervous she didn''t know what to do. Thete night was quiet. Mia felt like she was about to lose her mind. Her face was as red as the evening sky. Even though she often joked about this with Jade, she actually had no sexual experience and didn''t understand this at all. Everything was led by her husband. "Hold up, darling." She softly cut off Andre''s kiss. Andre had no choice but to stop, looking at the girl beneath him who suddenly snapped back to reality. Chapter 176 Chapter 176 Mia was still a bit fuzzy just now, but at this moment, there''s not a trace of desire in her eyes. Andre thought to himself: Guess I''m in for another cold shower! Suppressing his own desires, he said, "Mia, the weather''s getting chilly. These constant cold showers aren''t doing me any good." "Wait, that''s not it! Honey! I just remembered Molly." Mia suddenly thought of her close friend Jade. She remembered that time when they exited The Silent Ring, Jade said, "¡­ your husband was chasing after me, yelling ''Molly'', scared me half to death! Don''t let him know I was there¡­" She recalled Jade''s words as she left. Andre had never met Jade, how could he know her? And furthermore, even if he did know her, why was he calling her "Molly"? Considering Andre''s sudden departure and his recent words to her¡­ Mia wondered, could he have mistaken Jade for her sister, and that''s why he went searching for her? Andre reached over to switch on the bedsidemp, looking down at his nearly naked wife. "Mia, what did you just say?" Mia''s eyes flickered. She pushed the man on top of her, "You, you get off me first." Andre nced down at their position, then reluctantly rolled over to one side. Mia also shyly pulled the nket around her, only revealing her innocent face. She managed to escape again. "Stop covering up. You make it seem like I''m forcing you." Andre was a bit helpless. How many cold showers had she caused him now? Mia was also embarrassed. Every time they were either interrupted by someone else, or she was just too nervous. This time, she even undressed, but then she thought of Molly. "Honey, you know that, um, that thing¡­ I¡­" Mia stammered, too embarrassed to mention her other identity. "The Silent RingGold Level. Go on." Andre took the initiative to help her speak. Mia pursed her lips. She knew she couldn''t hide it from him. "That day, Leo, Jade and I, we all went." Andre was surprised. He had only discovered that Leo''s code name was "Miarise". This Leo boy use Mia¡¯s name as his code name to make himself sound powerful. Mia''s identity took a bit of effort to uncover, but he found it anyway. But Jade¡­ he still couldn''t find her name. "Tell me first, how old is Molly this year?" Mia asked. "The same age as you." Mia went silent. What a coincidence. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. "So, did you grab someone and call out ''Molly'' that day?" Andre squinted at his wife beside him. His mind was full of questions. "Mia, exin clearly." Andre suppressed his anxious heart. He tried not to frighten his cute wife with his restlessness. At this point, Mia confessed everything. "In fact, we three went to The Silent Ring that day. Because I was participating in thepetition, and you had left a hickey on my neck, I was embarrassed, so I wore a turtleneck sweater. When I got there, I realized that the clothes were not suitable, so I exchanged clothes with Jade. When we left, she saw you first. She knew who you were, but you didn''t know her. She told me you called her ''Molly''. She was scared by you, and I ran away with her. At that time, I didn''t think too much. I thought you just mistook her for someone else. And, when we came back, you scolded me loudly, so I was in a bad mood and didn''t notice anything strange here. Just now, I felt the name ''Molly'' was familiar, and I remembered that you had mistaken her for Molly." Mia exined everything clearly. She firmly believed that Andre definitely mistook the person. Jade has a biological brother. How could she possibly be Andre¡¯s sister? That''s ridiculous! Absolutely impossible! Andre''s breathing became heavier. His emotions were extremely turbulent at the moment. That day, he noticed that girl because she was wearing clothes simr to his wife''s. At that time, he didn''t know that his cute wife was a high-level racer. He thought it was just a coincidence. And Jade''s height was about the same as Mia''s, so he would take a few more nces at her. Mia added, "Honey, don''t get excited. I think you definitely mistook the person. Jade''s family is from out of town. She has a biological brother. Later, because her father was promoted, they moved to Havenbrook. I think it''s impossible for her to be your sister." Andre didn''t want to give up any hope. He hugged Mia''s shoulders with both hands and asked seriously, "Mia, you''re not lying to me, are you?" "You''re my husband. This is such an important matter, how could I lie to you?" She had known Jade and Leo for many years. She knew about Jade''s family situation long ago. When Jade''s mother was pregnant with her, she almost died. Jade often mentioned this. Not only her, Leo also knew about this. Because of this, Mr. & Mrs. Byrne cherished this hard-won daughter very much. Jade''s mother also told Mia many interesting things about Jade''s childhood. She believed that Andre definitely mistook the person. Mia got out of bed, took her phone from the table, found a selfie of her and Jade, and then showed it to Andre. "Look, this is Jade. Do you think she''s Molly?" Andre looked at the happy faces of Mia and Jade in the photo. He had never that unfamiliar face before. Fifteen years have passed. Molly would also be twenty years old this year. Even if she stood in front of him now, he would definitely not recognize her. Mia saw the unfamiliarity in her husband''s eyes. She took back her phone. She felt a bit guilty, feeling like she had given her husband hope, only to shatter it herself. "Honey, are you disappointed again?" Andre asked his wife, "What''s her father''s name?" Mia knew as soon as she heard that things were going to getplicated. Andre was going to investigate the Byrne family. Adopting a child would definitely leave a record. If it was not adoption, then suddenly having an extra child in the family would definitely leave a trace. Mia thought to herself, men really never learn. She felt helpless, but still told Andre Jade''s father''s name. "Honey, feel free to do your snooping, but please don''t mess with my friend''s family. Her mom''s a businesswoman. Even if you find out Jade isn''t your sister, you can''t go getting revenge on her. Also, don''t be messing with her dad and brother''s lives." Andre retorted, "Do you think I''m that kind of guy?" Mia bit her lip hard. She honestly believed her husband was capable of such things, but she didn''t dare to say it out loud. ''Cause she was scared of getting a smack! Chapter 177 Chapter 177 Andre threw the covers back. Seeing him about to leave, Mia quickly asked, "Where are you off to?" She was ticked off. Why did he always bolt at the mention of ''Molly''? Andre nced down at his lower body. "I''m going to take a cold shower. Or... do you want to help me out?" Mia''s face instantly turned red. She pursed her lips, not daring to look at her husband. He had been under the covers just a moment ago, so she hadn''t seen anything. Now, she felt shy. Andreughed and headed to the bathroom. As the sound of water started, Mia returned to bed, picked up her phone and struck up a chat with Jade. "Are you asleep yet?" In a police station, Jade quickly replied, "Mia, I got nabbed by the cops thinking I¡¯m a hooker." Mia was speechless. On Friday afternoon, Chad took leave, saying he was going to visit his grandparents. His boss gave him the green light. After a four-hour drive, he finally arrived at his grandparents'' house with Jade. "¡­I just remembered. You''re supposed to signal before you turn." Chad said, "Only now you remember? It is toote." Jade stuck her tongue out. Halfway, Kendrick Byrne called her, asking where they were. Jadeined, "Dad, Chad won''t let me drive!" Chad replied, "Not today, you''re not touching the wheel." Kendrick asked, "What happened? You two bickering again?" Jade didn''t dare to tell him, and Chad couldn''t be bothered. "Jade, if you''re tired, stop at a rest area and take a nap. No rush. Safety first." "Okay. Bye, dad! We''ll be there tonight." Kendrick hung up. Jade was out of snacks. The car stopped in the service area. Chad went to buy more snacks for her. With Jade keeping him They arrived at their destination within the estimated time. It was a small vige in Oakridge. Neither Jade nor Chad had lived there. They were both born in the city of Oakridge. Later, when Kendrick was transferred to Havenbrook for work, their entire family moved to Havenbrook. The siblings were not familiar with the vige. "Why isn''t the GPS working?" Over the years, many of the roads and somendmark buildings in the vige had been demolished. Some dirt roads had long been abandoned and turned into asphalt roads. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. Chad used to remember the way home, but now even looking at the map, he had no idea where he was. Chad took Jade''s phone. He looked at the map that hadn¡¯t been updated yet, "I''ll go ask for directions. Stay in the car." "Okay." Jade watched him leave. Chad got out of the car and walked over to a fruit vendor. He picked out some fruits while asking for directions. After figuring out the way home, he bought a lot of fruit. "Why did you buy more fruits? I''m already stuffed." Chad said, "These are for grandma." Looking at the sky, Jadeughed and said, "Did you feel sorry for that guy, selling fruits in such cold weather, so you bought his fruits?" Chad smiled faintly. He buckled his seatbelt and nced at her. "You''re getting smarter." Jade raised her eyebrows proudly. The trunk was filled with gifts they had bought for their grandparents. They didn''t need these fruits. Clearly, Chad just wanted to help that guy. "Chad, you''re so great." Jade took an orange out of the bag, peeled it, and began to eat while talking. Chad asked, "Is it sweet?" "You taste it." Jade broke off a piece of the orange and fed it to Chad who was driving. Chad smelled the orange scent on her fingers, "Remember to wash your handster." Jade quickly sniffed her own hand, "You''re right." Later, he drove, she ate oranges. She ate half, fed him half. Coleen Byrne called them, "Where are you now?" Jade saw fields on both sides of the car. She teased Coleen, "In the wilderness." Chad tapped her on the head, "Don''t scare mom. We''ll be there in ten minutes." Jade agreed and then honestly told her mother their location. By the time they arrived, it was dark. The whole vige knew that the Byrne family had two officials and a billionaire daughter-inw. Therefore, every time the Byrne family came back, it would attract the vigers'' attention. As soon as Jade got out of the car, she saw a crowd of people standing around. Everyone was staring at her. A woman said to her, "You''re Jade? You''re getting prettier. You must be 20 this year, right? Are you studying or working? Do you have a boyfriend?" Jade was a bit scared. Who is this woman? She called out to Chad who was unloading gifts from the trunk, "Chad! Come here." Chad put a box of bread in Jade''s arms. Seeing the woman who had been asking questions, he said, "She''s our neighbor." Jade helplessly looked at her brother, even wanting to hide behind him. Seeing his sister asking for help, Chad sighed. He put the fruits from the car on top of the box of bread, "You take these over first." When Jade got to the front door, she shouted, "Mom, grandma, I''m back." Coleen quickly came out to greet her. Seeing Jade looking so beautiful, dressed in high-end clothes and wearing beautiful jewelry, someone asked, "Jade, do you have a boyfriend?" Clearly, this person was nning to set her up on a blind date. Chad came over with a few more boxes of gifts from the trunk. He frowned at the person who had asked the question, "Nobody is to interfere with Jade''s marriage. She''s still a student. She''s not dating or getting married until she graduates." Jade was wholeheartedly in agreement with her brother. She nodded vigorously, "Yes, I''m not dating or getting married." Coleenughed and shooed the onlookers away. She didn''t bother with those trying to arrange marriages for her son and daughter. Coleen was graceful andpetent. Her voice sounded gentle, but those who had worked with her knew she was a formidable businesswoman. Without her skills, how could she have built up her Chade Inc.? The three of them carried the gifts back into the yard. Their grandma Aubree also came out at this time, all decked out in bright, colorful clothes. She saw her grandkids and immediately went over to hug them. "Oh, my pretty little granddaughter is back! Jade, you''re such a sight for sore eyes. You got your good looks from me..." Chapter 178 Chapter 178 Jade''s smile froze on her face. Coleen was smiling on the side. Chad put down the gift. Aubree also hugged him, "Look at my grandson, such a handsomed now!" Chad, "thank you, grandma." Coleen asked Jade and Chad to have a meal. After the meal, Chad sat in the courtyard and chatted with his mother, "Is dad at the hospital with grandpa?" "Yes. It''s toote today. Tomorrow I''ll take you to the hospital to see your grandpa." "How is he doing?" Coleen: "Not so great. The facilities at the vige hospital are limited. If it doesn''t work out, we n to take him to Havenbrook for treatment." Jade, linking arms with her mother, tilted her head and asked, "Then why didn''t we take grandpa to Havenbrook in the first ce?" Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. Chad tapped Jade''s head. "If we could convince grandpa and grandma, why would they still live here instead of moving to Havenbrook with us?" Jade got it. So, it was grandpa who didn''t want to go. Night was falling. The neighbor''s dog came over. Jade was afraid when she saw the dog. She picked up a stick from the side, looking like she was ready to fight the dog. "Chad, there''s a dog! Get rid of it." Chad quickly stood up and shielded her behind him. He took a broom from the yard to chase the dog away, then locked the gate. Aubree said, "Howe Jade is scared of dogs now? When you were little, you loved to y with puppies." Jade choked, "Grandma, I''m allergic to dog hair." "That''s impossible! When you were little, you even slept with a dog in your arms. You..." "Mom, do we have any thick nkets at home? I''m about to make the beds." Coleen interrupted Aubree. Aubree nodded, and then led her to the room on the west side. She asked Coleen, "Howe Jade is allergic to dog hair now?" Coleenughed, "She''s grown up now, her resistance may not be as good as before, so she''s allergic." Jade also asked Chad, "Did I really sleep with a dog when I was little?" If so, she would definitely despise herself. Chad said,"Yes." Jade said, "I want to die." On the first night in the vige, Jade was terrified. She jumped up from the bed, screaming loudly in the room, scaring Chad into rushing into her bedroom. "A centipede! It crawled over my ankle! Ahhh..." Jade''s screaming woke up even the neighbor''s dog. Coleen and Aubree heard themotion and quickly put on their clothes to check on Jade. Only Aubree and her husband Elmer usually live in this house, the other empty rooms haven''t been cleaned up. During the holidays, they were brought to Havenbrook. Coleen didn''t know there would be centipedes here. By the time they got there, Jade had already run crying into Chad''s arms. Chadforted her while looking for the centipede in the room. "How did you find it out?" Chad was scared after hearing her description. Jade cried, "My ankle felt itchy. I looked down and saw it. I wish I could chop off my foot! Boo hoo..." She got goose bumps all over thinking about the centipede she saw just now. Coleen immediately checked the bed. Aubree said, "The temperature is quite low now, the centipedes should be hibernating." Coleen shook the quilt, then removed everything from the bed, but no centipede was found. Jade didn''t dare to sleep in this room anymore. "Behind the door! There''s one behind the door!" Jade excitedly pointed to the doorway and told Chad. Everyone in the room quickly looked towards the door. Sure enough, there was a centipede as long as a pinky crawling on the ground behind the door. Coleen angrily walked over and stepped on it. Grandma Aubree also went over to take a look, "Howe there are still centipedes active in this season? Looks like the house is too damp. Jade, don''t worry, I''ll sprinkle insecticide on your bed." Jade shook her head. She didn''t dare to sleep here anymore. "Mom, I want to sleep in the car." Coleen''s room has been lived in for several days, it''s dry and insecticide has been sprinkled in every corner, so it''s rtively safe. She said, "Sleep with me tonight.¡± Chad nced at Jade who was scared in his arms, then carried her to Coleen''s bedroom. "Let''s stay in a hotel in the city tomorrow, okay?" Jade whispered to Chad. Chad nodded at her, agreeing to her request. There were so many dogs in this vige that Jade didn''t dare to go out. Jade reluctantly slept with her mother for one night. She had a terrifying night and even had nightmares. She dreamed that centipedes were attacking her, scaring her into a cold sweat. The next day, she insisted on staying in a hotel. Jade and Chad visited Grandpa Elmer in the hospital in the morning. They spent the morning with grandpa, and then they were taken away in the afternoon. "Did youin about me to mom when you slept with herst night?" Chad asked his sister while driving. Jade shook her head, "No. I just said you were abusing me. That''s a fact, not aint. Mom said she would teach you a lesson for me." Chad was speechless. They arrived at an inn. Jade looked at the environment inside and frowned. "This is not a hotel." At most, it''s a decent guesthouse. Grandpa Elmer was hospitalized in the health center in town. The best ce they could find nearby was this guesthouse. Jade reluctantly walked in. "A little hardship is good for you." Chad said. He checked in, then took her upstairs. They were staying on the fourth floor, so they didn''t have to worry about bugs in the room. Looking at the interior of the room, Jade felt depressed. "Can we take grandpa and grandma with us when we leave this time?" Chad took off his coat and threw it on the bed, then took out his phone to check around the room for any cameras. While checking, he replied, "If you can, you can persuade them to go with you.¡± After confirming that there were no hidden cameras in Jade''s room, he went to his room across the hallway with relief. Little did he know, the jacket he casually took off was about to give Jade an unforgettable experience. What''s worse, she got herself tossed into the police station because of her reckless behavior. That night, the local police suddenlyunched a vice raid. Jade had just taken a shower. She was in her pajamas, with a towel wrapped around her head, when she opened the door for the cops. "What''s up?" she asked. Five or six police officers pushed their way into her room. Jade was a bit dumbfounded, not understanding what was going on. "How many people live here?" one of the cops asked. "Just me," Jade replied. A cop walked over, picked up a men''s jacket from the bed, and questioned, "Whose is this?" There were cigarettes and a lighter in the jacket pocket, obviously belonging to a man. "It''s my brother''s," Jade answered. Chapter 179 Chapter 179 The cop swept the bathroom, then peeked behind the curtain, confirming that she was indeed the only one in the room. "Where''s the guy? If you don''t tell the truth, I''ll take you to the police for questioning." Jade shook her head, "I''m telling you, it''s just me here." Just then, a cop discovered a torn condom wrapper in the trash. Jade turned red with embarrassment. "What''s this about?" The policeman asked Jade seriously, pointing to the condoms in the trash can. Jade panicked, stuttering, "I... I... I opened it out of curiosity..." Her stammering sounded suspicious to the cop. But there truly was no one else in the room. The guy must''ve bolted. "Close the door," the lead cop ordered his partner. They were about to start questioning Jade. Seeing herself faced with a roomful of male cops, Jade broke down crying. "This jacket is really my brother''s." She knew they wouldn''t buy it. She tried to call Chad on her phone, but the cops confiscated it. She got mad, "You have no right to take my phone! I need to call my brother to vouch for me!" Meanwhile, Chad was in the middle of a shower when his phone rang, "What''s up?" "I''m in trouble again." Hearing this, Chad bolted out of the bathroom, threw on some PJs without even drying off, and headed out. Shortly after, there was a knock at Jade''s door. Chad, with his hair still dripping, walked in. "Hello, I''m Chad, the Captain of Havenbrook Police." "Chad? Is that you?" one of the cops recognized him. Chad turned around, "Johnson!" He spotted an old buddy from the academy. Knowing someone on the inside would definitely help. Chad''s identity was confirmed. But Jade was still crying her eyes out. Chad pointed at the condom wrapper, "What in the world is this?" he shouted louder than the cops. Jade stuttered, "I... I was just bored. I found it in the drawer. I had never seen one before, so I opened it to check it out. I was just curious." Chad raised his hand, tempted to smack her. A girl, in a room full of men, admitting she didn''t know how to use a condom! Jade shrunk back. "I didn''t expect the cops to show up! And you! Why the hell did you leave your jacket? That''s why they''re using me!" Chad was fuming. His buddy stepped in, "She''s young, she didn''t know any better. At least nothing serious happened." Content provided by N?velDrama.Org. Thanks to Jade''s curiosity, Chad was embarrassed in front of his pals. She knew she messed up. "Chad, how long are you staying? Can you lend a hand at the station? We''re stumped on a case," Johnson asked Chad. Chad nodded, "Carry on with your search. I''ll change and head to the station." Jade quickly got dressed and waited quietly by the door. "Why are you all dolled up?" Chad was still mad at her. Jade clung onto Chad''s arm, "I want to go to the station with you." "You''d just make a spectacle of yourself." Jade hung her head, not daring to argue. In the end, Chad, not wanting to leave her alone at the hotel, took her to the station. "Sit here and don''t move. If you need to go to the bathroom or get a drink, report to me first." No sooner had Chad finished than Jade chimed in, "Reporting!" Chad gritted his teeth, "What?" "I need to go to the bathroom~" Chad escorted her to the restroom, waiting outside the door. The other cops were stifling theirughter. "Looks like Officer Chad''s gonna lose it." "Having a sister like that, is it a blessing or a curse?" "If she was his girlfriend, wonder how mad he''d be?" Some cops who hadn''t been part of the raid were curious, "What happened?" The others remained silent, smirking. Jade was escorted back to her seat by Chad. She sat down obediently, promising Chad, "I swear, I won''t leave, just y on my phone." Chad wagged his finger at her, but in the end, couldn''t bring himself to scold her. Chad left for a meeting. Then Mia came over to chat with her. ...... Back at Mia''s house in Havenbrook, when she heard about Jade''s ordeal, she was shocked, "Jade, you''ve really done it this time. Of all things to be curious about, why this?" Jade exined, "I found it while looking for the TV remote. I was just curious and wanted to check it out. I didn''t know the cops would show up." Mia joked, "Give me some random numbers. I''ll buy a lottery ticket for you tomorrow. With your luck, you''re sure to hit the jackpot." They chatted until Andre came out of the shower. Mia was so engrossed in her chat with Jade that she didn''t notice Andre getting back into bed. Later, Jade asked, "Your husband''s back, shouldn''t you be all over him? How do you still have time to chat with me?" Mia suddenly heard a voice behind her, "She was all over me, but ditched me when it mattered." Mia was so startled she almost dropped her phone. She turned to see Andre peeping at her chat, "When did you get in bed?" "Is that Jade?" Andre asked. Mia nodded. Andre''s gaze drifted from Mia''s lips down her body. Mia sensed danger. She immediately put down her phone, dove under the covers, and covered her head, "Honey, let''s sleep." Andre chuckled. Hey down, letting Mia nestle in his arm. "Mia, how much longer do you need?" Mia''s breathing was steady. She had already fallen asleep. With Andre by her side, her sleep quality improved significantly. Andre looked at his adorable wife snoozing on his arm and smiled softly. The next day. Andre came out of the bedroom and saw Leo downstairs, "Come up." Leo shrugged, climbing the stairs. They entered Andre''s study. Before Andre could say anything, Leo already started apologizing. "I''m the one who crashed into the shed. Mia wasn''t in the car at the time." Andre just snorted, "Something you nned back in sophomore year of high school, and you only get around to doing it in sophomore year of college. You really are a piece of work." Chapter 180 Chapter 180 Leo stared at Andre in shock, "How did you know I''ve been nning this since sophomore year?" Andre gave him a cold nce. How could such a thing have slipped by him? Back in sophomore year, Leo would always measure the position of the little hut in the backyard after dinner, constantly calcting on scrap paper, figuring out how much force he''d need to knock over the shed. Andre wasn''t blind. He had been waiting to see just when Leo would destroy the little shed. But he never got any news. It wasn''t until this year that the shed was finally knocked over. His first thought was Leo. What pissed him off wasn''t the fact that he knocked over the shed, but that he had a bad influence on Mia. "If you ever dare to drag Mia into your mischief again, I''ll break your legs myself." Leo immediately shook his head in fear. But he also hoped she wouldn''t drag him into mischief. He knew Mia was a troublemaker too. "Even though I have a special rtionship with Mia, but..." "Hmm?" Andre''s expression darkened. He dared to say he had a special rtionship with his wife in front of him? Leo quickly changed his words, "Even though we''ve been together since we were kids..." Wait, that wasn''t right either. "In short, even though we''ve been friends for many years, I still need to remind you that she is a troublemaker too." Andre paused, then said, "I know." Andre knew? "The reason I called you up today was to ask you about Jade." "Why do you need to know about Jade? If Mia knew you were interested in another woman, even if that woman is her good friend, she''d still be pissed." Andre red at Leo, impatiently saying, "Well, then don''t let her find out. Spill it." Under his pressure, Leo had no choice but to stand there and spill everything he knew. Meanwhile, Mia wasn''t idle either. She found Naomi and took her hand, saying, "I want to look at some old family photos." Naomi asked with confusion, "Why do you suddenly want to look at photos?" Mia said, "I want to see what Andre looked like from childhood to adulthood." Naomiughed. She put down what she was doing and led Mia to her bedroom. She pulled out arge, thick photo album from the cupboard. "Andre only took a picture on his birthday every year when he was a kid. After that, he stopped taking photos." Mia took the album, gently dusting it off. "No one has looked at this album for a long time." Naomi said. They sat on the sofa and started flipping through the album. The first page was a family photo of the Cedillo family. Naomi pointed to the woman in the photo and said with a smile, "That''s our mother-inw." Mia nodded, "She looks gentle." "Yes. She was the gentlest person I''ve ever met." Naomi said, lost in her memories. They continued to flip through the album. Two children appeared in theter photos. "The one in the green shirt is Leo. And that..." Naomi''s finger stopped on a picture of a girl in a white dress. She fell silent. "That must be Molly." Mia mumbled to herself. Naomi looked at Mia in surprise. She smiled at Naomi, "You don''t have to hide it from me. Andre already told me." She didn''t juste to see Andre''s photos today, she also wanted to see Molly''s photos. Naomi sighed, "Andre has a lot of things on his mind. Maybe only you can make him happy. Mia, promise me, you won''t hurt him." Miaughed. She said to Naomi, "Don''t be silly. I love him so much, how could I bear to hurt him? I promise you, wherever and whenever he needs me, I''ll be by his side." Naomi looked at her with a smile. "Can you tell me about Molly? Andre didn''t tell me the details." Naomi thought for a moment, "Mia, I hope you won''t reject Andre after you know these things." Mia shook her head firmly. Naomi smiled in satisfaction, "Do you know Hansen used to be a government official?" Mia shook her head. She only knew that Hansen was the same age as her grandfather. His story was as distant as a history book to her. "He was a high-ranking government official. He was incorruptible and offended many people. Later, someone secretly reported him for corruption and bribery. The prosecutors intentionally investigated him for over half a year until theypletely pissed him off. After proving his innocence, he resigned." At that time, Hansen had been idle at home for over half a year. The scandal almost affected his son''s life. He waited for more than half a year to finally prove his innocence. Once the announcement of his innocence was issued, he immediately resigned and went into business. "Hansen is a very smart man. He used his previous connections from work to pave the way for himself. In just a few years, Cedillo Inc. grew bigger and bigger. Then, he crossed another line. Cedillo Inc. is a conscience-drivenpany. If we make more money, others make less. By coincidence, the Cedillo family was flourishing during those years. Our mother-inw had Molly, and not long after, I had Leo. C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org. The entire family was very happy, often organizing various gatherings and taking the children to participate in various activities. Gradually, the vulnerabilities of our family were discovered by others." Mia leaned on the sofa, one hand propping up her cheek, listening with rapt attention. Naomi recalled, "That day, Leo and Molly were ying together. Suddenly, a group of people burst into the house and picked up Leo to leave. Andre was watching the kids in the yard at the time. Seeing that Leo was about to be taken away, he held onto Leo for dear life. In the end, the frustrated kidnappers gave up on Leo and took Molly instead." "What about Andre?" Mia only cared about her beloved husband. Naomi remembered the scene from that year, "He threw himself on the ground, clinging to the leg of the kidnapper who had Molly, trying to stop him from leaving. In the end, he was taken away with Molly by the kidnappers." Mia frowned. Turned out, her husband had been kidnapped before. "So why was it only Molly who ended up missing?" Naomi shook her head. She didn''t know either. In that chaotic moment, the whole family was in a state of panic. Leo nearly got nabbed too, so her mind was a total mess. By the time she came to her senses, she found out that the kidnappers had demanded a billion bucks ransom from the Cedillo family. Hansen called the cops, but the kidnappers sent him a photo of Andre and Molly, covered in blood. Any parent would be gutted seeing such a scene. Seeing her son and daughter covered in blood, Mrs. Cedillo passed out on the spot. Chapter 181 Chapter 181 Afterwards, the Cedillo family managed to scrape together the cash and dropped it off at the designated spot. But only Andre came back, and Molly mysteriously vanished. Upon hearing this, Mia forgot to respond. Her gaze was filled with worry. "And then what?" she asked. "Turns out Andre was saved by the Marshal family, Jillian''s father to be exact. That''s why we''ve helped the Marshal family so many times. After you joined the Cedillo family, we''vepletely cut ties with them. ¡°Not even a month after Molly disappeared, Andre''s mom kicked the bucket due to illness.Andre med himself, thinking he didn''t protect his sister well enough. He''d wear his hospital gown and search for Molly everywhere. His mother''s death hit him hard, and he felt he was responsible for it. At the age of 13, he moved out on his own and went to Maplewood Estates, where he lived alone, studied, and refused any assistance from anyone. ¡°I once tried to do hisundry, he practically kicked me out. Hansen tried to get into Maplewood Estates, but without Andre''s permission, he couldn''t even step foot in there. ¡°Mia, you''ve made your way into Andre''s heart, I''m sure you guys will end up living in Maplewood Estates. I''m begging you, give Andre a home. Don''t let him be like a lonely ship, with only the mission to find Molly in his heart." Mia nodded resolutely, "I''ll give him a home, and he''ll give me something to lean on." Naomi always cared for Andre. Many times during Christmas, Andre would be alone outside. They couldn''t even get him toe home for a meal. So Naomi said to her son, "Leo, go do something naughty." Leo, "¡­Mom, are you losing it or am I?" Naomi pointed at the chandelier in their house and said, "Knock it down with a stick." Leo looked up at the perfectly fine chandelier. It wasn''t bothering him, why did he have to knock it down? But Naomi insisted. Leo felt puzzled and went ahead without asking for the reason. Then, his trouble- stirring mom picked up her phone and called Andre. "Andre, get back here and handle Leo. He broke the chandelier at home and almost hurt someone." Leo was speechless. Then Andre came back, and gave Leo a good spanking. Throughout the Christmas season, the Cedillo family living room was filled with Leo''s wailing. But no one was mad, everyone had a smile on their face. Only Leo, who got spanked so hard he had to stand while eating because his butt hurt too much to sit down. Later on, his mom said to him, "Leo, go and¡­" "I won''t do it!" Then, his dad stepped in. And then, Andre came back again. In the Cedillo family, Leo cried again. Leo figured out the pattern, every Christmas, he dared note home, he''d often ask Jade and Mia to hang out with him instead. Because the moment he stepped foot in the house, everyone would start egging him on to do something naughty, even if he didn''t do anything, he''d still get a whooping. There was one time when he didn''t go back no matter who called him. What was frustrating was Naomi called Andre again. "Andre, Leo''s disappeared again during New Year''s, not even answering his phone." Later on, Andre found his missing nephew on a deserted street. Andre didn''t get out of the car. Leo saw the license te, scared himself into crying first, then willingly got into the car. Coincidentally, Mia was also there that evening. She dressed herself up like a penguin. Her huge scarf covered half her face, and she watched the car drive past her. Andre didn''t notice the girl dressed like a penguin. What''s meant to be, will be. Naomi and Mia chatted for a long time, then continued looking through the photo album. Bruce walked in and saw them. "Mia, you''re here?" "Yes, I came to look at photos of Andre and Molly." Bruce came over, nced at the album, then sat across from them. He hesitated, then earnestly said to Mia. "Mia, right now, out of the whole family, Andre only listens to you. You know Molly, you should also know theplete story from Naomi. I''m asking for a favor, talk to Andre more, and get him to give up. If he keeps going like this, he''ll lose his mind." Mia''s face was full of determination, and she shook her head. Her eyes were sincere, firm. "Bruce, I can''t promise you that. I know what you mean, but I trust my husband more. I won''t persuade him to give up. As long as it''s something he insists on, I''ll support him and stay by his side. It''s too hard and too lonely to search alone, so with me by his side, Andre won''t lose his mind. Even if it takes a lifetime, it''s okay." Bruce was left speechless. Naomi looked at the young girl, she put her hand on Mia''s. "Bruce and I feel guilty about Molly''s disappearance too. If it weren''t for Andre protecting Leo, Molly wouldn''t have been lost, and his mom wouldn''t have died." Mia, rational and sensible,forted the guilt-ridden Naomi. "They were after Leo. He''s the only heir to the Cedillo family. The significance of kidnapping him far outweighed Molly''s. Andre was young back then, he could only protect one child. It¡¯s either Leo or Molly. If Leo was kidnapped and missing for fifteen years, Naomi, you wouldn''t have been able to bear it." Perhaps, the one who would''ve been too worried, beyond help, would''ve been Naomi. No matter who it was, Andre felt his sin was too great. Bruce fell silent for a while, "Mia, what if we''re looking for someone who might not exist?" Without hesitation, Mia replied, "No biggie, let''s treat it as a belief, as long as Andre and I are alive." With that, she stood up, sneakily grabbed a photo when the couple wasn''t looking and stashed it behind her phone case. "Bruce, Naomi, I''m taking off first." She left the room. At the same time, Leo came out from Andre''s study. The two locked eyes. "What are you doing with my mom?" "Why were you in Andre''s study?" Both fired off their questions simultaneously, grilling each other. However, neither was keen on divulging their actions. Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. They locked eyes again. Leo red at Mia, they mutually ignored each other and went off to find their respective family members. Mia stepped into her husband''s study, while Leo headed for his parents'' bedroom. "Honey, what were you doing with Leo just now?" "Just discussing some homework stuff, where were you?" Mia''s eyes twinkled, she yed coy, "I''m not telling." Today, the ne around her neck was shimmering, and seeing this, Andre was in good spirits. He swiveled his office chair around, and spread his arms out, extending his hands, "Come here." Mia bit her lip, giggling as she ran into her husband''s arms. Meanwhile, in Naomi''s bedroom. "Where were you just now?" "Where else could I be, Andre called me over, you couldn''t have missed his booming voice, could you?" Leo poured himself a ss of water. "Mom, Dad, I need to discuss something with you guys." "Good news or bad news?" Naomi closed the photo album and put it away. Chapter 182 Chapter 182 Leo said, "I''m thinking about moving out." He had it figured out that at least for the time being, Mia and Andre weren''t going anywhere. He was being too foolish if he continued like that. Naomi immediately shot him down, "No way." "Mom, Andre''s been living at home now, I don''t need to do anything to make hime back and give me a hard time." But Naomi countered, "If you move out, who will drive Mia to school in the morning? She won''t take the chauffeur''s car." Leo was frustrated, "So, I''m just Mia''s chauffeur at home?" Naomi felt a little guilty, so she added, "If you''re at home, I can take care of you." "I think you take better care of Mia." Naomi was speechless. It was a little awkward. In the afternoon, as expected, Andre took Mia car shopping. Leo tagged along as the errand boy. "Mia, go check out that Bentley." Mia scoffed, "It''s ugly, I don''t want it." Leo, "I do." Andre said, "Dream on." Leo was speechless. Andre, "When choosing a car, you can''t just judge by its looks." Mia said, "But if I don''t like its looks, it''s a no-go." Andre asked, "What about a sports car, do you like it?" Mia nodded enthusiastically. "Do you want it?" Andre asked. Mia frowned and shook her head. Andre chuckled, leading his wife to the front to look at the car. A salesperson was on standby, exining the various perks of the car. Mia clung to her husband''s fingers, staring at him with a nk, cute expression, as if saying: I don''t understand! Men could understand what a V8 engine and cylinder deactivation mean, but in Mia''s world, she could only ask: What are these things! Leo was all ears. Andre cut the salesperson off, pointing to his nephew. "You exin it to Mia." Leo, "What¡¯s in it for me?" Andre gave him a look. Leo was a bit sheepish, itching to punch the couple in the face. "Basically, this car is high-end and luxurious. The seats are all leather, easy to operate,fortable to sit in, well-designed, high-spec, and the exhaust note is top-notch. It has adaptive cruise control, so you don''t need to worry about keeping your speed when following the car in front. Plus, it''s fuel- efficient." Leo figured that was enough for Mia to handle. He put it simply and clearly, and she got it. "But it''s too long. I can''t reverse park." Leo opened the car door, pointing to the disy screen in the middle. "It''s got a 360-degree reversing camera. Even a pig could park it." Mia clenched her fists. "Say that one more time." Leo saw her hand and quickly blinked, "This car is perfect in every way, especially for a beginner like you." Andre was also satisfied with the car and asked his wife, "Do you like it?" Mia bluntly told Andre, "Honey, if you buy me a car, you''re gonna have to spend a lot of money." Andre chuckled affectionately,"That''s not a problem. I''ve already set aside money for you. Once you''ve gotten used to this car and your driving skills are improved, I''ll gift you a luxury car every year." Content provided by N?velDrama.Org. Mia couldn''t hide her smile as she hugged her husband''s waist tightly, "Darling, you''re going to spoil me rotten." Andre held his petite wife, "That''s exactly what I want to do." Meanwhile, Leo, feeling ufortable, mumbled to himself, "Honestly, you two are so lovey-dovey, it''s sickening." He didn''t dare to say it aloud. Andre''s approach to treating his wife was to spend millions on a luxury car and then let her practice driving. Moreover, once she had mastered it, he would buy her a new luxury car every year. This made Leo very envious. His car was over two years old, and he had been wanting to change it but never dared to. Andre told the sales manager, "We''ll take it." Then, he took his wife''s hand and led her to check out other cars. Leo grumbled and followed them. "Come and take a look at your car." Andre didn''t look back, but his words were definitely meant for the person behind him. Leo was momentarily stunned. Then, Andre asked, "You don''t want to change your car?" Leo was taken aback, then an incredulous expression appeared on his face. He was dizzy with this surprise. He rushed over to Andre, grabbing his sleeve, "Andre, are you buying me a car?" Mia was a little jealous, "Leo, let go of your hand. No one is allowed to grab my husband''s sleeve except me." Andre was very satisfied with his wife''s reaction and to please her more, he promptly pulled his arm back. Right now, all Leo could think about was his new car. He was so excited that he jumped up in the dealership, not knowing what to say. He was so thrilled that he wanted to hug Andre, but Andre had a very jealous wife. "Andre, I love you so much." Mia, seeing his excitement,ughed too. "My husband just buys you a car and you''re this happy?" Andre was infected by his nephew''s silliness and alsoughed. "Consider this a reward for helping Mia recently. Go pick one." Andre gave his bank card to his nephew, "After you''ve made your choice, go pay for it. Pay for Mia''s car while you''re at it." He nned to take his wife for a test drive. Leo took Andre''s card and went off to hunt for the car he had been coveting for so long. By evening, Leo and Mia each drove a new car home. Andre''s father was proud that his kids could all drive. He looked at Mia and asked quietly, "Mia, when will you take me out for some delicious food?" She had promised himst time but hadn''t followed through yet. Miaughed and told her father, "Don''t let my husband know. We''ll sneak out when he has some social engagement." Andre''s father was getting more and more fond of his daughter-inw. He said, "Okay." Andre pretended not to hear his wife and father conspiring to go out for a food trip. The next day, they went to school. Leo found out about the issues Jade had to deal with at home over the weekend. "Man, why are all my friends like this?" A Mia with a tendency for violence and a Jade who didn''t mince words and enjoyed joking around. Mia, the one who loved fights, looked like an adorable little sister, cute and charming. But Jade had an innocent face. Among the three of them, he was the one who always got the short end of the stick. He could never win a fight against Mia. He should know more than Jade. But that was not the case. Jade said, "Enough already, I was nagged to death by my bro all day yesterday, I''m so fed up." Mia asked, "Did your brother hit you?" Jade answered, "He couldn''t bear to, but he ended up getting himself all worked up." Just because he couldn''t bear to hit Jade, his hand was raised several times but never fell. Seeing her cornered, hands up in surrender, with a pitiful expression, Chad just couldn''t bring himself to do it. And then, he ended up fuming at himself. Chapter 183 Chapter 183 This time, two of her friends bought cars, and she didn''t have the nerve to ask him for one. She''d just upset him and hadn''t made up yet, so she didn''t dare to ask. Mia had a sudden thought and said, "Jade, how about I drive you home today?" Jade didn''t think much of it and said, "Chad will pick me up." Mia continued, "You''ve never ridden in my car before, let me take you home. I haven''t been to your ce in a long time." Leo, on the other hand, was at a loss and even tried to stop Mia. "Aren''t you supposed to go home with me tonight? If you take Jade home, won''t that mess up our ns?" Under the table, Mia stepped on Leo''s foot. "You never talk when you should, but you can''t shut up when you shouldn''t." Leo looked innocent, what had he done wrong? Jade also said, "Mia, how about you drive me next time? I really need to behave myself recently, I really can''t mess with Chad anymore. If Chad dies young one day, it''s definitely because I pissed him off." Mia, "¡­then I''ll go with you to your ce. With me there, Chad won''t bully you." Jade scratched her head, looking at her friend with a puzzled frown. Something seemed off about Mia. "Tell me straight, did you have another fight with your husband and n to hide at my ce?" Leo, the forgetful one, spoke out of turn again, "No way, she kissed Andre in front of me when she left this morning, they couldn''t have fought so soon." Jade got excited in an instant, "Mia, do you kiss your man every morning now? Hey, you''ve really learned the ropes. You know how to kiss now. Tell me everything." Mia bit her tongue and turned to look at Leo, who deserved a punch. "Leo, if you die young one day, it''d definitely be because I beat you to death!" Leo held his tongue. Why couldn''t he speak freely now? Mia continued to look at Jade, and casually lied, "Jade, I want to borrow a book from you." Jade''s eyes lit up immediately. She looked at Mia, "What? Do you have some secret in mind?" Mia nodded with a perfunctory smile, deliberately misleading Jade, "Something like that." "You should''ve said so earlier, I could definitely find what you want to read. Come home with me today." Mia sessfully made it to her best friend''s house. In the afternoon, when Chad came to pick her up, Mia went along. Sure enough, Jade behaved well in the car and Chad didn''t scold her. Once home. Jade led Mia into the bedroom. She knelt down and pulled out a bag from under the bed filled with novels she had bought. But Mia took out a book titled Money and Banking from a nearby bookshelf. "This is the one I want to borrow." Jade was shocked, "Aren''t you into those kinds of novels like The Domineering CEO is in Love with Me?" Mia said, "Andre is the domineering CEO, and he''s quite fond of me. Why would I read about others when I have the real thing?" Jade nced at the economics book in Mia''s hand. Feeling something was off, she stood up and kicked the books under the bed, then walked over to Mia''s side, picked up a book, and asked, "What do you need this for?" "My husband wants me to get a banking qualification certificate. I remember you have this book, so I want to borrow it." Mia''s words sounded very sincere, leaving Jade confused and suspicious. "If you had told me you wanted this book earlier, I could''ve brought it to you tomorrow, why bother making a trip yourself." "I think it''s more sincere toe and get it myself." Jade, "¡­I think you''re a little crazy." Mia, "Considering how Chad''s been bullying youtely, I''ll let it slide." The two sat down and started chatting. "Jade, why didn''t you disy your childhood photos?" Jade replied, "My childhood photos aren''t good, so we only disy the ones taken after I grew up." "As your good friend, how could I not be a part of your childhood? Come on, share your photos so I can see." That was Mia''s real purpose. She wanted to see Jade''s photos, so she could persuade her husband that Jade wasn¡¯t actually Molly "Wait, I''ll ask Chad where my album is." Jade left the room and saw Chad cooking downstairs. "Chad, where''s our photo album? Mia and I want to see some pictures." Chad, "What pictures do you want to see?" "Just some embarrassing ones, just tell me where the album is." Chad, "It''s in mom''s study, go find it yourself." "Okay." She turned and ran to her mother''s study. In the kitchen, Chad turned off the stove, he walked out the door and looked at Jade''s closed bedroom door, his gazes darkening. He felt a bit uneasy. Soon, Jade returned. "Mia,e and see." She opened the album. Mia and Jade sat together and flipped through the childhood photos in the album. "This is when I was just born. My mom was so tired, but she still kissed me." In the picture, indeed, a woman, who hadn''t even wiped the sweat off her forehead yet, was kissing the wrinkled little baby. "This is when I was a month old, this is when I was one hundred days old." Mia said, "Jade, do you have any photos from when you were a bit older?" "What''s the rush? Didn''t you say you wanted to see my embarrassing photos? Let''s start from when I N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content. was born." Mia was eager to see theter photos. "This is when I was three years old, Chad took this photo holding me." The photo was taken at Chad''s school. Their parents went to a parent-teacher conference and brought her along. Chad held Jade in his arms and took a photo at the school. With each photo, Jade exined the story behind it to Mia. "This is just before I turned four, my parents took me and Chad on a trip¡­" Mia, "Where''s your photo when you were five?" Just then, there was a knock on the door. Then, the bedroom door was pushed open by Chad, calling them, "Jade, Mia,e out and eat." Jade turned to look at Chad, "Chad, why do you always barge in after knocking?" "Quit the chatter,e out and eat. I have to go to the police stationter and won''t be home tonight. The maid will be back soon, she''ll stay with you tonight." Mia said, "Chad, I won''t be dining here. My husband wille to pick me up, and we''ll return to the Irvin family." Then, she continued to check the photos in the album with Jade. Just as Jade was about to flip to the next page, Chad mmed the photo album shut in her hands. He was frowning, clearly ticked off, and gave Jade a stern look, "Eat first, or I''m gonna confiscate this album." Frowning, Jade wanted to refute Chad''s assertive attitude. But seeing the resolve in Chad''s eyes, she didn''t dare to talk back. "Fine, I''ll look at itter." She grabbed Mia''s hand, "Let''s go eat, Chad''s cooking today." Mia shot a nce at Chad, then her gaze fell on the photo album. Chapter 184 Chapter 184 Mia wanted to speak up, but was afraid of causing a fuss in the Byrne family. Because Jade was Mia''s close friend without any blood rtion, she couldn''t overstep her boundaries. She felt guilty today for taking advantage of Jade''s good nature. "Hey, Jade, I''m not eating anymore. My husband is almost here. I''m going to wait for him at the door. You two carry on." After heading downstairs, Mia prepared to leave. Jade and Chad wanted to see her off. Mia stood at the door for a moment, and Andre came driving up. He got what Mia was aiming for. Having him pick her up was actually to let him see Jade in person, to rid him of his ideas about Jade. He appreciated his wife''s gesture and personally came over. "My husband''s here, I gotta split." Andre parked the car, got out, and saw the girl who was as tall as Mia, with a simr physique, and Chad, whom he had met a few times. He walked up and shook hands with Chad. "Hey, I''m Mia''s husband, Andre." "Nice to meet you. As a citizen of Eldoria, who wouldn''t know Mr. Cedillo. I''m the captain of the public security bureau, Chad." The two shook hands, Mia felt an odd tension in the air. She quickly diverted her husband''s attention, pointing to Jade, "Honey, this is me and Leo''s best friend, Jade." Having been caught by him before, she shot Andre an awkward nce, then edged a bit closer to Chad, looking somewhat scared. Andre looked at her but said nothing. "I''m here to pick up Mia, so we''ll get going and see you around." His face was calm, as if he was really meeting Jade for the first time. Chad nodded, he and Jade watched as the car drove off. Once it was gone, he furrowed his brows, sensing a hint of danger. He turned to nce at Jade, "Jade,e inside with me." "Okay." On the way home, Mia asked her husband, "Did you notice anything?" Andre didn''t share his thoughts with her. Instead, he gave her the answer she wanted to hear, "No." In the following days, in order to help clear her friend of suspicion and to help her husband face reality, Mia put in a lot of effort. She often visited the Byrne family. The Cedillo family was getting a bit miffed. "She doesn''t even spend time with her parents. Instead she''s out and about with her friends, what''s up with that?" Mia went to the Byrne family again. This time, Chad wasn''t home, and no one was there to interrupt her and Jade. They started to look at the photo album they hadn''t finishedst time. Jade pointed to a photo and said, "This is what I looked like when I was five." There was writing next to it, it read "Jade, 5 years old". Back then, she didn''t have bangs, but Molly''s photo at five had bangs. Two kids,pletely different looks. Without saying much, Mia was sure Jade wasn''t Molly. After all, even if it was a fake, it wouldn''t have been made 15 years ago, let alone having photos from when she was one to five years old. Content provided by N?velDrama.Org. "What did you look like when you were six?" Jade said, "You might not remember, but I had chickenpox when I was six. I was covered in spots." Mia had heard that there were no photos of Jade from that year. Because chickenpox was contagious, no one dared to touch her. Even on her birthday, no teachers were invited. Then, the next photo was of Jade when she was seven. "Is this you?" Mia asked, pointing at the photo. Jade nodded, "Yes, that''s me. It was my brother''s 12th birthday. I got too excited and smeared cake on his face. He didn''t hesitate to smear cake back on mine. My parents wereughing so hard they took this photo." Later on, Jade''s appearance gradually became clear. By middle school, Mia had a clear memory of what she looked like. "Jade, I''m sorry." Mia suddenly apologized. Jade looked puzzled, "What''s wrong?" Mia didn''t exin, she got up to wash her face, then left, nning to drive to her husband''s office. Meanwhile, Andre was also looking at a photo of Jade when she was five. His face was expressionless. Noah hesitated whether he should continue speaking. "Carry on." Noah carried on asmanded, "Jade''s birth records was real, and we found Kendrick''s assistant and people from Jade''s hometown, including Chad''s ssmates. They all confirmed Jade is the child of the Byrne family. And she''s never been missing. We took Molly''s photo and asked around, but the neighbors all denied seeing Molly. So, Jade is very likely not Molly." Andre looked at the photo, his gaze never left it. In a short while, he saw someone through the surveince camera. He put away the photo, "You can leave now, Mia will be here soon. Don''t mention this." "Okay." Noah left and Mia showed up. As she was pushing open the door, she shouted, "Honey!" "You''re here." Andre smiled when he saw her. "Yep, honey, I''ve figured it out, Jade is not your sister. I''ve seen all her photos from when she was a baby, and there''s no way she could be your sister." Andre stood up and opened a bottle of drink for his wife. Mia took it and had a sip, "You probably saw wrong that day." "Hmm, okay, I probably made a mistake." He closed hisptop, "Mia, shall we go on a date?" "Another date?" Mia and her husband would go on dates every few days. Now she felt like dates were amon thing, without the anticipation like before. Last time, she stayed up all night, and he took her to the mountains to stargaze. In his words: stargazing equals dating. Sheined once at home, saying it was boring. Then he took her to an amusement park, and they spent the whole day there. It was only when she got home at night that she realized she had skipped school that day. But her husband told her, "You''re the principal. No one''s gonna mark you absent." She retorted, "Honey, does that mean I can get my diploma even if I don''t go to school, because I''m the principal?" This question left Andre speechless again. Recently, Mia hit up a concert, but she just snoozed through it. She took a trip to the theatre, but she just looked pooped. She even went to the beach, but all she did was yawn. But, oh boy, when it came to eating steak, she could clean her te like a champ. When she hit up Majestic Dining Enve, she could munch for two straight hours. When she popped into a dessert shop, she could chill there all afternoon. Later, Mr. Cedillo summed it up, "Girl, you sure can eat!" Mia blinked innocently, "What''s the matter, can''t handle feeding a foodie like me? If you can''t, I''ll just find someone else who can." Andre, wrapping his arms around his soft wife and looking at their pet cat, whispered, "Not only can I handle feeding you, I can also handle our cat." But, Mr. Cedillo started to worry. His Kittemia didn''t seem to have much of a taste for the arts. One day, Andre asked Mia, "Mia, do you know who Beethoven is?" "He''s a painter." "And what about Da Vinci?" "He''s a singer." "What about Einstein?" "How do you not know this? Isn''t he that super famous physicist?" Mia looked down on her husband. She couldn''t figure out how someone with his intelligence could possibly have achieved so much. Andre felt a slight sense of relief. Mia''s schooling wasn''t a total waste. She did learn something after all. Chapter 185 Chapter 185 After a while, Mia suddenly remembered something and asked, ¡°Hey babe, Newton was the one who got hit by an apple, right?¡± Mr. Cedillo, "¡­Mia, how did you do in high school?¡± ¡°What does that have to do with anything?¡± Mr. Cedillo shook his head, more curious about how she got into Havenbrook University. ¡°Did you cheat on your exams?¡± Mia shook her head innocently, her voiceced with a hint of grievance, "Nah, I wouldn''t dare to cheat." Andre figured that Mia''s eptance into university was sheer luck. Otherwise, any general knowledge questions in exams would have her mentally cursing the test makers. He didn''t want Mia involved in his search for his sister. She would inevitably bring her own feelings into it because of her rtionship with Jade. But he did indeed see that bite mark. If Jade was really his sister, Mia would be in a fix. Andre said, ¡°Come on, let''s go out.¡± ¡°Just to be clear, darling, I''m not down for art exhibitions, museums, or creative parks.¡± Andre, "¡­How about desserts?¡± Mia cheerfully linked her arm with her husband''s, resting her head on his shoulder. ¡°Oh, you''re the best!¡± With Kittemia by his side, Andre found it hard not to smile. He took Mia''s hand and they left the After they left, Noah and Alice started chatting. ¡°Alice, why does Mr. Cedillo always skip work whenever his wife shows up?¡± Alice, "Why are you asking me?¡± ¡°Because you''re married.¡± Before Andre got married, he used to sleep in thepany sometimes. But now, once he saw his wife, work was thest thing on his mind. He waspletely neglecting his work; all he wanted was to go on dates with his wife. Alice, "Don''t assume all married people are the same. Mr. Cedillo is not ordinary, and we are just ordinary.¡± Andre took his wife to the dessert shop again. This irritated Hansen, who was at home. Heined about the irresponsible couple to his grandson for a long time. ¡°Leo, take me to catch them.¡± Leo, ying on his phone, "Nah.¡± Hansen, "Hey, when we find them, I''ll beat them up for you.¡± Leo continued ying his racing game, and he said while looking at the screen, ¡°Remembering I''m your grandson now? Toote.¡± He was so engrossed in the game, while Hansen, who was supposed to beining, suddenly got hooked. ¡°...Left, you idiot, I said go left, give it to me.¡± Leo quickly hid his phone, ¡°You can y on your own.¡± Hansen took out his phone, ¡°Download it for me, I''ll y on yours first.¡± Leo refused, so Hansen tried to snatch it. He tried to snatch Leo''s phone, and Leo fell on the couch, ¡°Mom, mom, grandpa''s trying to take my phone. Mom, help.¡± Naomi looked out the door, then pretended to see nothing and went back in. Leo: Why do I do this to myself! In the end, Hansen won. With the phone in his hand, he selected a motorcycle. ¡°Don''t make me lose.¡± ¡°No way, I was the coolest when I rode motorcycles in my youth.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, the sound of a gunshot rang out on the phone screen, and the car controlled by Hansen immediately crashed into a wall. Both of them fell silent. Was this what you call cool? ¡°You better give it back to me.¡± Leo took his phone back and started ying again. Hansen watched intently from the side, ¡°Hurry up, overtake them.¡± Seeing that Leo didn''t overtake, he startedining, ¡°Look at your pathetic skills, useless.¡± ¡°Come on, if you''re so good, then you do it.¡± Hansen nced at the difficult racing track, having learned from his previous mistake. He backed off, ¡°I don''t need to y, I''ll just give you some pointers from the side.¡± ¡°I think you just don''t know how.¡± ¡°Are you asking for a beating?¡± Hansen picked up his walking stick to threaten him. The two of them wouldn''t stop bickering, even over a game. The living room was filled with their arguments. Hansen loved to give advice, but every time it ended in failure, he still saw failure as the mother of sess and continued to instruct. In the end, the game ended, and Leo had dropped from level 8 to level 5. Both of them stared at the ranking and fell silent. At dinner, Hansen tried to appease Leo, ¡°Leo¡­¡± ¡°Don''t call me.¡± ¡°We¡­¡± ¡°Don''t drag me into it.¡± ¡°No, this afternoon¡­¡± ¡°No.¡± Every time Hansen tried to speak, he was interrupted by Leo. Naomi scolded her son for being disrespectful to his grandfather. "It''s okay, it''s okay, Naomi, don''t be angry. Leo is a good and respectful child. We shouldn''t always be scolding him. We only have this one child in our family." Hansen, now ying the role of a kindly grandfather, was defending Leo, aplete contrast to his behavior on the couch earlier. Mia and Andre returned from their date. She had a paper bowl in her hand, filled to the brim with Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org. delicious food. ¡°Dad, are you asleep?¡± Hansen pretended to be surprised,ing slowly down the stairs. ¡°Well, look who decided toe back.¡± Mia tried to win him over, ¡°It''s all Andre''s fault. Why did he have to take me to eat all this delicious food? Now I''m getting fat.¡± Hansen scoffed at Mia''s words. Mia held up her hand, ¡°Guess what this is.¡± Hansen had already smelled it, but he yed hard to get and didn''t ask. Mia changed her shoes, walked over, and presented the variety of snacks she had bought with both hands. ¡°Your son may not be considerate, but your daughter-inw is. Even though I ate a lot of delicious food when I was out, I thought of you with every bite, and I brought some back for you.¡± ¡°That''s more like it.¡± Hansen took the food to the dining room. He started toin to Mia about how Leo was ignoring him. ¡°You just eat, I''ll go deal with him for you.¡± Mia put on a show of rolling up her sleeves and going upstairs to find Leo. Hansen feltforted and started eating happily. Andre, the killjoy, reminded him, ¡°Eat less, don''t end up in the hospital again tonight.¡± When they were out, he didn''t want Mia to buy so much, but he couldn''t control her. She would buy something delicious whenever she passed a booth. She came back only when she couldn''t carry all the things she bought for Hansen. "You''re such a buzzkill!" Andre awkwardly touched his nose, "These are all kid''s food, you''ll upset your stomach if you eat too much at your age. I''m going to prepare some diarrhea medicine for you tonight and put it on your bedside table." "Enough of that!" A call came on Andre''s phone. He gave his dad a worried look before heading upstairs with his phone. Mia went to y in Leo''s room again. As he passed by, he heardughtering from inside. Andre opened the door to his nephew''s bedroom and saw the excited Mia. He said, "It''s okay to y for a while, but go back early and get to bed early tonight." "Got it." Mia was like Andre''s daughter, ying with her friends outside and being reminded by her parents to